《The Princess’s Inner Thoughts Were Overheard by Her Emperor Father》 Chapter 1 Chapter 1 Xiao Chuchu woke up and was stunned. She discovered that her hands and feet were all tied up, wrapped tightly in a yellow cloth bag. Her head simply could not be raised, she could only re at the hibiscus flower canopy over her head. As soon as she opened her mouth, a wailing cry emerged from her body, "Wahhh!" Xiao Chuchu was scared out of her wits. Where on earth had she transmigrated to? Just as she was thinking, someone walked over and picked her up. "Yes, the young miss has woken up." Xiao Chuchu struggled ufortably. But as soon as she was picked up, she saw the room''s antique decorations, the pear wood desk, the bed... they were all made to look old, like antiques. If they were ced in modern times, they would be worth a lot of money. "This ve will first serve the young miss water to drink." Young miss? Had she heard wrong? Xiao Chuchu did not expect that she had transmigrated into ancient times and be a princess. Before she transmigrated, she loved to read novels about the fight for power in the imperial pce. She especially loved female protagonists who could defeat scheming concubines in the imperial harem, uncover plots and false usations, and train the dog emperor to be a loyal dog who doted on the beauty of the six pces. Just as she was thinking this, Xiao Chuchu looked around the room. The desk and chairs in the center of the room were obviously 50-60% worn, with some of the vermilioncquer missing from the desktop, and the legs of the table had a chipped notch. On the right side near the window was an imperial concubine''s long couch, covered by a half-new brocade quilt. Other than that, in this cold winter month, there was not even a blue and white vase with winter plum blossom branches in the room...it was empty. If this room was ced in modern times, one could say there were some valuable antique wooden furniture, but ced in a novel about fighting for power in the imperial pce, this was clearly a sign of an unfavored status! Could it be, could it be that she had transmigrated as an unfavored young miss? After Xiao Chuchu drank the water, she was carried by the wet nurse to a gentle beauty in a half-new sky-blue satin gown. This beauty had specially taken off her gold ring and washed her hands clean in the water basin beside her before going to greet her. "Chuchu, mommy will carry you." This young miss was also called Chuchu? Was this her mother? Xiao Chuchu blinked. Looking at this beauty''s clothes and jewelry, they were half-worn, so she probably did not have a high status. Moreover, it seemed like someone had called her "Lower Concubine"? "Yes" was the lowest ranking concubine in the imperial harem. In many novels, even if the female lead was a low-ranking concubine, she could still eat and drink well with her monthly allowance. But if she was only an "Lower Concubine" concubine, the monthly allowance would not even be enough for her own food and drink, let alone raising a milk-fed baby. "Lady Lower Concubine,st night the young miss cried out once, was fed milk and went back to sleep." The beauty responded, "Thank you for your hard work." Her voice was clear and melodious, very gentle, as if a spring breeze that carried a hint of fragrance. However, what she said next made Xiao Chuchu''s heart jump out in fright. "Lower Concubine, Consort Min is reciting sutra recently, do not carry the young miss to disturb her." "The Gold Festival will be celebrated soon, and the pce has several happy events continuously, the Empress Dowager is returning to the pce first, followed by Noble Lady Fu Cha being honored. There will surely be grand celebrations held. Be careful these few days not to let the firecrackers scare the young miss." The Empress Dowager. Noble Lady Fu Cha. Consort Min... Xiao Chuchu felt her mind exploding. This was precisely the novel "The Doomed Country''s Noble Consort was the White Moonlight" that she had read before! The female protagonist was Noble Lady Fu Cha of now, she would be established as Queen in the future by the leader of the Yuan State that would doom and destroy Chu State, and would receive the greatest favor despite her age. And her, Xiao Chuchu and her whole family were just cannon fodder in this book. Her father, the King of Chu, would be poisoned to death by Noble Lady Fu Cha after three years, and his edict would be changed to pass the throne to his third prince. However, the third princecked ability, was suspicious and jealous. Her own elder brother the fifth prince was exceptional in both civil and military skills, and loved by the people, but he was hated and feared by the new emperor, and eventually killed in suspicious circumstances at the borders. Her maternal grandfather''s whole family were all clean and loyal ministers, but were wrongly used of six crimes and exiled a distance of three thousand li to their deaths. Her mother Lower Concubine Liu was made to be the dead king''s apaniment in death by the female lead''s edict. All of Xiao Chuchu''s family suffered a tragic death. Moreover, they were just one of the victims. After the third prince ascended the throne, worried about being questioned for killing his father, he put to death countless loyal ministers. Most generals at the borders were imprisoned as well. In less than ten years, the lives of the people deteriorated, and the borders were lost. The army of Yuan marched straight in unobstructed. In the end, Chu Dynasty fell swiftly. And the female lead that became the tragic empress dowager of the fallen nation, was recognized by the King of Yuan State as the Chang''e who had been promised to him since young, and the two started a shameless journey of strong conquest of the empress dowager literature, and finally attain happiness by being together. Only the entire people of Chu Country suffered bitterly! Only her family that became cannon fodder suffered bitterly! Xiao Chuch recalled everything and her face turned ugly. The Chu young miss that she had transmigrated into, having the same name as her, was just a cannon fodder character that was only mentioned in a line in the book - the young miss that died in infancy from catching a chill before she was even 1 year old! Xiao Chuchu: "..." Oh my god. Her small face turned pale without a trace of blood color. "Yes, Lady Lower Concubine, this ve will be careful to look after the young miss." The wet nurse lowered her head, but in her lowered face there was a trace of contempt that only Xiao Chuchu saw. Xiao Chuchu took a deep breath. ¡¾Ding, as the host loves novels about fights for power in the imperial pce, the system of fights for power in the imperial pce has been bound to the host sessfully. ¡¿ ¡¾Collect points for fights for power in the imperial pce, points can be exchanged for lucky draws.¡¿ Fights for power in the imperial pce? Please, this was a falling country, what use would fights for power have! But as Xiao Chuchu retorted in her mind, a lottery spinner appeared in front of her eyes quickly. Inside were all sorts of rewards. ¡¾The technique to dredge waterways, Art of War, formation of the Silk Road, whip reforms in taxation...¡¿ ¡¾Unlocking the inner voice of the Yuan imperial family, unlocking the inner voice of Japanese pirates on the seas...¡¿ Xiao Chuchu''s eyes lit up. It seemed like she could still have hope! With the system, there was still a bit of future prospects. Just as she was thinking this, her mother Lower Concubine Liu in front of her had already warmed her hands over a charcoal stove. "Cough..." She coughed once. The charcoal in the basin was obviously the lowest quality wood charcoal, with a strong smell of smoke. s, her own mother was really a honest person that could not even use silver silk charcoal! Xiao Chuchu saw Lower Concubine Liu turn and walk a few steps quickly to disperse the smoke, only then did she carefully take her swaddled form from the wet nurse''s hands. Looking closely to observe up front, Xiao Chuchu only realized what was real beauty without the aid of technology. Lower Concubine Liu had standard goose egg face, skin fair likerd, lips as red as peaches, eyebrows green like a mountain. A pair of phoenix eyes were like a stretch of spring waters, reflecting the sunlight, the ripples as if countless stars. Just looking once would make one feel as if sinking within... ¡¾Wow what a great beauty!¡¿ ¡¾Novels simply cannot describe this!¡¿ Lower Concubine Liu was gently hugging her daughter well, wanting to lower her head to look at her daughter''s rosy pink and tender little face. Suddenly, she heard a soft cute voice and was so shocked that she tightened her arms around her child and quickly looked up. Who was speaking? There was only her, the wet nurse and pce maid in the room. But not one of them had opened their mouths! ¡¾Is this the beauty that I can see? Ah, she takes my life when looking down, takes my heart when looking up!¡¿ ¡¾My mother looks so naturally beautiful like a fairy, yet the emperor only let her be an ''Yes'' concubine, the lowest rank. I don''t understand!¡¿ How could the emperor be mentioned? Walls have ears! Lower Concubine Liu looked around anxiously. Confirming there was no fourth person, she quickly looked at the wet nurse and pce maid beside her, only to see them with normal expressions, seemingly not having heard anything. ¡¾What is mother looking at? Why doesn''t she look at me?¡¿ ¡¾Could it be that she is very disappointed that I''m a daughter and not an imperial prince, and does not like me?¡¿ It was her daughter speaking? Lower Concubine Liu was given a huge shock, and hurriedly lowered her head. Then she saw her embraced infant daughter, soft and plump, face chubby. Herrge eyes were round like grapes, clear and extremely clever, staring at her seriously. Lower Concubine Liu felt her heart almost melting. She simply could not be bothered by her daughter''s strange voice, and immediately hugged Xiao Chuchu''s soft little body tightly. "Chuchu is mother''s life. As long as Chuchu is healthy, mother is willing to do anything. Mother loves Chuchu the most." Xiao Chuchu promptly narrowed her eyes in happiness, ¡¾Rubbing intimacy with mother~ Such bliss~¡¿ What did rubbing intimacy mean? This silly child. Lower Concubine Liu hugged her daughter tightly, unwilling to let go. But Xiao Chuchu quickly recalled her ending, and could not help but pout:¡¾s, but in this novel, this young miss is supposed to die from illness before reaching one year old.¡¿ Lower Concubine Liu who was hugging her daughter preciously like a treasure, instantly had her face turn ominous. What? Novels, did it mean storybooks? [Mother was heartbroken due to the premature death of her child, and having caught a chill, she also developed a chronic illness. Even until the death of my father, the emperor who consumed alchemical elixirs, and the new emperor issued an edictmanding her to hang herself with a white silk scarf as a form of burial, she was never cured!] Lower Concubine Liu felt as though she had fallen into an ice ravine, suddenly chilled throughout her body. "Mydy," the wet nurse stood in Lower Concubine Liu''s simple, unadorned bedchamber and lowered her eyes, her voice interrupting the mother and daughter''s thoughts. "Today is the young miss''s one-month celebration. In this old servant''s hometown, mothers would sleep in the same bed as their babies on this day, which could suppress evil spirits and bless the child to grow up safe and sound from then on." Lower Concubine Liu instantly returned to herself, forcing down the rm welling up inside as she seized this lifeline. "Is that true?" As long as her daughter didn''t catch a chill and die prematurely, she was willing to do anything! She already couldn''t bear to be parted from her little one, often holding the young miss in her arms and personally feeding her at night. "It was what this old servant''s grandmother taught me," the wet nurse smiled with a nod. "And my children are all hale and hearty." Color finally returned to Lower Concubine Liu''s face. "Good, tonight my daughter will sleep with me. Wet nurse, you can rest in the outer room." It didn''t matter if a mother sleeping beside her child on the full moon could dispel evil spirits or if the mother would suffer torments from ghosts in the child''s ce, Lower Concubine Liu was willing. She wished she could sacrifice herself to protect her daughter. But as soon as she had finished speaking, the blood drained from Lower Concubine Liu''s face again. [Ah, letting my mother sleep with me on the full moon? This wet nurse is wicked!] [I caught a chill and my mother became unhealthy after childbirth, all because on my full moon celebration that day my mother was persuaded to stay with me at night, and then the evil Nurse Wang deliberately opened the window in the middle of winter. Both my mother and I incurredsting damage to our health from that frigid December night!] Chapter 2 Chapter 2 In the cold winter at the end of the year, even though there was a brazier burning wood in the room, Lower Concubine Liu still felt chilled to the bone. Did Granny Wang deliberately open the window at night? It''s the twelfth lunar month now, the north wind is as sharp as a knife, the chill pierces through the heart. Not to mention children, even adults can''t stand the wind. [s,ter the Imperial Physician said I was only a month old, my body wasn''t fully grown, and I was invaded by the cold into my internal organs, very difficult to regte, and as expected I couldn''t hold on and passed away before even a year had passed...] [My mother loved me, held me to sleep together, but as a result she caught a cold today right after getting out of her one-month confinement. Afterwards she coughed for three months, leading to my father the Emperor who died young not summoning my mother. Mother suffered physically and mentally worrying about taking care of me, and also not able to recuperate herself, she really suffered torment in both body and mind.] [Not muchter her healthpletely copsed. Three yearster she was granted death by the New Emperor, and was buried along with my father, she didn''t even have the strength to resist!] Lower Concubine Liu almost copsed, but holding the child, she could only force herself to endure. The Emperor died so early, and she was buried along with him? But right now she couldn''t think about things three yearster, the most urgent thing was her young daughter''s safety. Looking up, Lower Concubine Liu scrutinized the simple-looking expression of Granny Wang in front of her. She had previously thought this person was diligent and honest, and could be trusted. But now, under these astonishing murmurings, she couldn''t help but be suspicious. Although the murmured thoughts of her young daughter were extremely bizarre and strange, not like a normal person, everything she said seemed to warn her mother. What if it was true? She didn''t dare neglect it. Lower Concubine Liu looked seriously at Granny Wang right away. Tonight, she absolutely could not let something simr happen! She would not allow others to plot against her child! She wanted to see if Granny Wang really had that much audacity. "Replying, Fifth Prince and Madam Liu have arrived, they just happened to meet in the front hall." She was thinking, when a little eunuch outside the room came to announce. Lower Concubine Liu was immediately overjoyed, "Quickly invite them in." But very soon, when she saw a seven-year-old boy, walking expressionlessly three steps in front of a middle-aged woman, the light in her eyes swiftly darkened. Not long after she entered the pce, she gave birth to the Fifth Prince, titled Replying. ording to convention, Fifth Prince was raised by Consort Li. Consort Li''s father was a top official, and could give Fifth Prince a better future, much better than her own father who was only a fifth-rank official. Lower Concubine Liu knew that Consort Li didn''t want Fifth Prince to have too much contact with her, his birth mother. Only if his birth mother Lower Concubine Liu stayed away from Fifth Prince, would Consort Li let down her guard and truly care for Fifth Prince wholeheartedly. Thinking of this, Lower Concubine Liu suppressed the joy on her face at seeing her son. "Son Cheng Qian pays respects to Mother Lower Concubine Liu." The seven-year-old boy wore a straight-cut yellow robe, had bright phoenix eyes, a sharp hook nose, although not yet grown up, already had the serious, handsome features of a young man. He walked over, seeing Lower Concubine Liu''s expressionless face, her gaze fixed only on the baby in the swaddling clothes, his eyes also darkened for a moment. But very soon he grimaced self-deprecatingly, and hid the dejection in his eyes, putting on an expressionless face again. Mother Lower Concubine didn''t like him, this had been going on for more than just one or two days. Ever since he could remember, she had been unwilling to pay attention to him. The other princes, even if they were raised by other consorts, were often cared for and asked after by their birth mothers. Only he, among all his brothers, seemed to be abandoned by his birth mother. Elder Brother and Second Brother all said his mother was afraid topete with Consort Li over him. When he heard this at the time he was very angry, and from then on was not close with Elder Brother and Second Brother who spoke badly of his mother! Fifth Prince lowered his head to look at the floor tiles. He guessed that it wasn''t that Mother was afraid of Consort Li, but that she didn''t have much feeling for him to begin with. Fifth Prince closed his eyes with difficulty for a moment. But in a sh, he was startled. [So handsome, my brother~] Cheng Qian was suppressing his sadness, about to take out the one-month-old birthday gift he had prepared, a white jade unicorn, to give to his swaddled little sister to y with. Hearing this, he almost threw out the white jade unicorn. Who was speaking? Cheng Qian forcefully held it in, not looking around Mother Lower Concubine''s room. Lower Concubine Liu and the pce maids all had calm expressions, seemingly nothing out of the ordinary. Could it be that only he could hear it? Fifth Prince''s pressed lips instantly became an even straighter line. But the corners slightly turned up. Was this little sister praising him? Indeed, he was always the most diligent one listening to lessons in the study. Because he wanted to be the most outstanding prince, to make his mother who didn''t like him look at him more. He hoped she could give him winter quilts and reward him with midnight snacks in winter like other birth mothers did. He also hoped that he could grow up quickly, gain the Emperor Father''s favor, and by extension make his mother gain more respect and better treatment in the pce! At least promoting her from Replying to Consort! [s, brother misunderstood mother''s intentions, thinking he was disliked by his own mother and was silent and depressed every day.] [Later in the study brother would sit with a scowling face, and was deemed by the Emperor Father as ''an unfilial son, looking at his father with hatred'' and ''not getting along with his brothers'', and it was recorded in the daily journal, and from then on he had no fate with the throne.] Fifth Prince''s expression instantly changed dramatically. Lower Concubine Liu''s body almost swayed. Xiao Chuchu had just turned one month old, and still could not hold up her little neck. Otherwise she really wanted to click her tongue and shake her head. She sighed regretfully in her heart, and a little milk bubble emerged from her tender pink mouth. [Brother, you misunderstood badly. Mother giving you the cold shoulder was not because she disliked you, but because she wanted to protect you! Otherwise Consort Li is jealous, would not have raised you affectionately, how could you have survived until today?] [Mother, you were also too foolish. Why didn''t you close the door and secretly exin everything clearly to brother? Otherwise brother would not have grown up to be scowling, and disliked by the Emperor Father.] Lower Concubine Liu was doused with cold water in an instant, her eyes reddening. She had almost harmed her own son with her actions, she had almost ruined him? "Cheng Qian..." Lower Concubine Liu looked at her son again, there were tears shimmering in her eyes, full of heartache and loving care that she tried to endure but could not. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian at this moment also realized like enlightenment pouring down. Hearing his little sister''s bizarre murmurings, and seeing his mother''s tearful expression now, so he had misunderstood her in the past? "Mother!" Fifth Prince suppressed it and immediately kowtowed on the ground to Lower Concubine Liu seriously. "Congrattions to little sister on turning one month old. I''ve brought a white jade unicorn today to give to little sister as a gift." When he turned one month old, Mother also loved him like this right? Lower Concubine Liu quickly had people help him get up. The two of them looked at Xiao Chuchu in the swaddling clothes, with affection and joy in their eyes. But very soon, they were both stunned. [Oh, brother also had it hard. After not being favored by the Emperor Father, and having no fate with the throne, when the New Emperor ascended, he was wary of brother''s reputation for the people and talent in both civil and military skills. Not long after, the New Emperor sent brother off to battle, wanting him to die on the battlefield.] Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince, their hearts that had just settled were grabbed tight again! And stunned speechless in the hall along with them, there was also one other person. That was Old Madam Liu, who had walked in along with Fifth Prince earlier! Old Master Liu passed the imperial exam ten years ago and obtained an official position in the capital this year, ranked fifth-grade. Old Madam Liu took the opportunity today of her granddaughter''s one-month celebration to personally submit a memorial to enter the pce to see how her daughter and grandchildren were living in the pce. Who would have thought, as soon as she stepped into her daughter''s quarters, she would hear all these strange words. Old Madam Liu was scared stiff on the spot. And very soon, this voice also took notice of her. [Huh? This is my maternal grandmother? She looks so young, my mother must have inherited her beauty!] Old Madam Liu was overjoyed. Her well-behaved granddaughter really had good taste. [But it was a pity that despite having such a beautiful grandmother, the whole family did not end up well.] Madam Liu: "!" Chapter 3 Chapter 3 The new emperorpelled my mother to be buried with him and indirectly caused the death of my elder brother. Soon, he began to fear and target the Liu family, who held positions in the court, including my maternal grandfather and uncles. Before long, my maternal grandfather was used of seven crimes, and our entire family was exiled three thousand miles away. Grandmother, grandfather, my eldest and second uncles... They all died on the way. The fate of the entire Liu family was so tragic! Madam Liu and Lower Concubine Liu were both shocked. The Fifth Prince clenched his fists. He had never harbored any ambitions for the throne before, considering he was the fifth in line to seed. All he wanted was to be a useful prince to the court. But if what his younger sister said was true, then he... had to fight for the throne no matter what! Otherwise, with the new emperor taking over, he and his maternal rtives would perish! Little Xiao Chuchu, still a baby, expressed her determination, "I must find a way to protect my brother, my mother, and grandmother. I won''t let such beautiful mother and grandmother, such handsome brother suffer and be harmed." Madam Liu, Lower Concubine Liu, and the Fifth Prince couldn''t help but be moved. They couldn''t help but lower their heads and look at the little girl in the swaddling clothes. So young and tender. And yet, she already wanted to protect them. What a good child. The more they looked at her, the more they loved her. "Your Highness, the Fifth Prince, let this humble servant hold the little princess," Madam Liu said, disregarding the difference in status before the prince. Without a second thought, she snatched little Xiao Chuchu from the Fifth Prince''s arms. The Fifth Prince: "..." He still wanted to hold his younger sister. But Madam Liu, holding her granddaughter with milk bubbles on her lips, didn''t want to let go. "Humble servant sees that the little princess is blessed with a bright and intelligent pair of eyes, surely she is a fortunate one," Madam Liu said, looking deeply at Lower Concubine Liu. Was she the only one who could hear her granddaughter''s celestial-like voice? Seeing that Lower Concubine Liu wasn''t surprised at all, Madam Liu felt she had to secretly remind her daughter. Immediately, Madam Liu advised, "Lower Concubine, being able to have the little princess is a blessing. You must take good care of her. The true fortune lies ahead for you." Lower Concubine Liu already cherished her young daughter more than anything, so she didn''t need her mother to say it. But just as she was about to respond, the serious Fifth Prince next to them spoke first. He nodded and said, "Grandmother, rest assured. I will visit my sister every day after my studies in the study room." Lower Concubine Liu was taken aback. Previously, she intentionally ignored the Fifth Prince, and he would only visit once every three days. However, Madam Liu was pleased and said, "The Fifth Prince is a good elder brother." Having rarely entered the pce, she quickly asked about her daughter''s situation in the harem. She also pricked up her ears, wanting to hear any other sounds from little Xiao Chuchu in the swaddling clothes. Although she didn''t know if it was true or false, the content was too terrifying to be ignored. But little Xiao Chuchu was just over a month old, and as she vaguely recalled the ending of the novel, she found her eyelids heavy and couldn''t keep them open. Comfortably nestled in Madam Liu''s skilled embrace, she found the mostfortable position and settled in. "So sleepy..." "Baby wants to sleep..." But as Xiao Chuchu closed her eyes, she struggled and made a noise. "No, I can''t sleep... Tonight, Mother will have guards keeping watch..." [...I can''t... sleep... I have to stay awake... I saw the wicked nanny not closing the window and wanted to cry... So that my mother and I... won''t get seriously ill...] However, she struggled for a while, but her small body couldn''t hold on. Bound by the limitations of an infant, she fell into a deep sleep. But the words she expressed before sleeping startled and angered Madam Liu and the Fifth Prince. How could such a treacherous ve exist in the pce? Targeting an unobstructive full-moon princess! But when they thought about it, they understood. Madam Liu wasn''t considered favored in the harem. Six years ago, the emperor showed favor to her once, and she gave birth to the Fifth Prince, who was promoted to the position of a prince. In these six years, the emperor would only asionally visit Madam Liu a few times a year. And yet, despite the scarce favor, Madam Liu gave birth to another healthy princess. If they let her continue, it was very likely that she would have a second or third prince... In the eyes of some people, this was undoubtedly a threat! Seizing the opportunity when the little princess turned one month old, if something happened to her and Madam Liu, who had just given birth, fell seriously ill, it would be a double blow. What a cunning n! The Fifth Prince''s eyes darkened. "Mother, the north wind has been fierce in recent days. Eldest Brother and Second Brother have caught a slight cold and keep coughing." The Fifth Prince pondered for a moment before speaking, "Mother and little sister should also take care to keep warm. Eldest Brother and Second Brother have been practicing archery and horseback riding since childhood, and they can''t withstand the cold wind entering their bodies. Not to mention that Mother just gave birth and little sister''s body hasn''t fully developed yet. We should be more attentive." Better to believe it than to doubt it. "The warm stove should never be extinguished during the day. At night, in addition to the wet nurse taking care of the little princess, it would be best to add another meticulous and reliable eunuch as a guard." Madam Liu nodded repeatedly. Her grandson''s words were just right. She also offered some advice to Lower Concubine Liu, "What the Fifth Prince said is true. If you can''t find a reliable candidate for now, I suggest letting Qiu Li, who has been with you for six years, take extra care. She is usually bold and meticulous. It would be better to let Miss Qiu Li handle it these days." "Especially recently, with heavy snow and strong winds..." Lower Concubine Liu nced at the clever and obedient young girl in the swaddling clothes, and she became alert as well. "Alright, I will make arrangements today." "Cheng Qian, it''s almost time for you to go to the study room. Don''t bete and make Master Lu angry." As she spoke, the Fifth Prince''s solemn face brightened up. Mother even knew that the teacher in the study room was named Lu. His sister''s thoughts... were not wrong. Mother had indeed been secretly concerned about him, and he had misunderstood her before. "Yes. Your son will go now." The Fifth Prince stood up and respectfully saluted Madam Liu and Lower Concubine Liu. After he left, Madam Liu and Lower Concubine Liu chatted for a while longer. Madam Liu gave many reminders to her daughter, "The little princess is fragile when she is newly born, so only reliable people should handle her food and belongings." Madam Liu couldn''t stay in the pce for long. Today, she took the opportunity of the little princess turning one month old to see her daughter. Before leaving, Madam Liu hesitated for a long time but decided not to tell Lower Concubine Liu about the strange thoughts of the little princess. After all, the pce walls have ears. If such strange matters were spread, the little princess would be regarded as a monster and would not have a good ending. Madam Liu didn''t dare to say too much, especially since Lower Concubine Liu had just given birth and couldn''t handle any more stress. At least wait until her daughter''s health stabilized. Moreover, she didn''t know if her granddaughter''s thoughts were true or false. Just in case, what if it''s her own imagination, some kind of hysteria, and it has nothing to do with Little Geges? Madam Liu suppressed her thoughts. "Promise me, you must remember to let Qiu Li take care of Little Gege." Before leaving, she obtained Lower Concubine Liu''s promise and reluctantly took her leave. "Take care of yourself and your father too." Lower Concubine Liu thought that at least she had to wait until the Awarding Gold Festival, when the pce would invite officials and their wives. Only then could she possibly see her birth mother again, and tears fell uncontrobly. Mother is still calm and scheming. Unlike her, if she hadn''t heard her daughter''s strange inner thoughts, she wouldn''t have doubted the wet nurse at all. Although she didn''t know if it was true or false, she dared not risk her daughter''s life! "Qiu Li, you will apany me tonight in the inner room." After everyone had left, Lower Concubine Liu gently ced the sleeping Zhang Yue on the bed in her own chamber. ... In the winter night, the moonlight poured through the cracks in the coffin-like window, casting a silver-white glow on the bed in the inner room. The ground was covered in a nket of silver, and inside the room, it was quiet and still. But it didn''t take long for a stealthy figure to silently approach the window. Creak... The window of the room opened from the outside. The north wind immediately rushed into the room! The shadow was about to leave in a hurry, but just as it took a step back, a pair of hands reached out from the window and firmly seized it! "You wicked servant! How dare you plot against Gege and Lower Concubine Liu!" The entire courtyard suddenly lit up. Chapter 4 Chapter 4 The north wind howled. Xiao Chuchu woke up in the middle of the journey, hazily drinking milk, and heard the voices in the main hall. "It''s agreed, this wet nurse really has a problem and harbors malicious intentions. We caught her red-handed!" Xiao Chuchu opened her eyes with great effort and found that Liu Ying was holding her. It seemed that they were lying on the long couch in the study instead of the original bedroom. "Tie her up and invite the eunuch steward from the Imperial Household Department toe!" Lower Concubine Liu ordered, but she lowered her voice for fear of waking up her daughter in her arms. Xiao Chuchu blinked nkly, as if the critical danger of their winter night exposure had been resolved? Had the perpetrator been caught? That''s good then. She mumbled twice, but couldn''t resist her infant drowsiness again. After being gently patted on the back by Lower Concubine Liu, she fell asleep again with a full stomach. The next day, Xiao Chuchu woke up in the fragrant arms of her wet nurse. She had just secretly stretched out her little feet when she heard a sharp, delicate voice in the room. "This servant failed to identify the untrustworthy person and allowed such a shameless scoundrel who plotted against the imperial bloodline to get close to the young miss." "Please forgive my offense, Concubine Liu!" As he spoke, Xiao Chuchu had already opened her eyes out of curiosity. She saw the eunuch steward from the Imperial Household Department, who was of medium height but had a broad face and round figure, stuffed a money bag to Lower Concubine Liu¡¯s pce maid Qiu Li! Managing the servants in the Imperial Household Department had always been a lucrative position. The concubines who wanted to find a capable servant or pce maid had to give the steward of the Imperial Household Department some benefit. It was rare for the Imperial Household Department to give money to a concubine, especially someone of Lower Concubine Liu¡¯s low status! Xiao Chuchu smacked her lips. The pce maid Qiu Li who received the gold ingots was also looking at Lower Concubine Liu in astonishment. Lower Concubine Liu was about to sternly reject it, but she felt the little feet of the baby girl in her arms move. ¡¾After this incident, the steward who allocated this wet nurse to my mother was afraid of being implicated, so he sent money to my mother early in the morning ording to the story.¡¿ ¡¾But my mother didn''t take it, and in the end she offended this eunuch. ¡¿ Xiao Chuchu in swaddling clothes looked at the money bag, feeling a little greedy. ¡¾Oh but my mother rejected the ten taels of gold he gave, not only losing money but also offending this viin, leaving hidden danger for the future.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but whimpered anxiously at Lower Concubine Liu. Lower Concubine Liu¡¯s beautiful eyes shed. She immediately nodded slightly to the pce maid Qiu Li. Qiu Li understood tacitly and quickly took the money bag from the steward¡¯s hand. ¡¾Wow, my mother is good at pce scheming. That''s clever! That''s right, investigate but also take the money. Who said you can''t take money when investigating someone!¡¿ ¡¾It¡¯s unwise not to take it~ there are ten taels of gold inside ~¡¿ ¡¾It can pay for meat and vegetables from the imperial kitchens for a month~¡¿ Xiao Chuchu grinned happily. If not for her infant body, she would have wanted to give Lower Concubine Liu a thumbs up. Seeing her cute little smile, Lower Concubine Liu also couldn''t help showing a smile. The eunuch from the Imperial Household Department standing below saw this and immediately felt relieved. He had thought Lower Concubine Liu would berate him as well and send him to the Pce Justice Department for investigation. If that was the case, he would have to pull some strings with his godfather and stir up trouble with Lower Concubine Liu. But now that she took the money and even smiled at him, she was reasonable. Since this was the case, he should return the favor and not brush her off with perfunctory words. The steward from the Imperial Household Department sincerely bowed to Lower Concubine Liu again. "This lowly one interrogated the wet nurse all night." "She said she hated that Consort Min could be with the young miss every day, so she couldn''t helpmitting the crime." "Because whenever she saw you depend on each other, she would think of her own three-month-old baby. She hated you and the young miss to the bone when thinking that she had to serve the young miss in the pce while her own child couldn''t be fed!" "If the young miss died early, then she could go back home!" What a ridiculous argument! Lower Concubine Liu was extremely angry. The wet nurse entered the pce voluntarily. If it wasn''t for Lower Concubine Liu¡¯s own report and her actively going to the Imperial Household Department to register, she wouldn''t even be on the candidate list for wet nurses. Even if she regretted it after entering the pce and wanted to go back home to nurse her own child, would she not have let her go? How could this woman harm such a young child because of this! Lower Concubine Liu was both angry and afraid afterwards. But the eunuch from the Imperial Household Department nced at her meaningfully. "It is best for Concubine Liu to know that this wet nurse is from Hangzhou." Lower Concubine Liu was taken aback. Hangzhou? The words came suddenly, but Lower Concubine Liu understood after a little thought. She had listened to her daughter''s inner voice and epted the money, which was her statement of not pursuing this eunuch. So this eunuch sold her a favor and hinted at the real reason why the wet nurse tried to harm the young miss? Hangzhou, was it rted to the mastermind behind the scenes? ¡¾Oh, the murderous wet nurse is from Hangzhou!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu also recalled along with the eunuch''s words and hummed quickly. ¡¾But this perpetrator bit hard that she acted out of her own jealousy, and there was no evidence found in the Pce Justice Department¡¯s interrogation that linked it to Concubine Chen.¡¿ It turned out to be her! Lower Concubine Liu was shocked. She and Concubine Chen entered the pce at the same time and both lived in Consort Min¡¯s Donghua Pce. Having been neglected for many years, they were as close as sisters. Xiao Chuchu blew bubbles tiredly, ¡¾Oh, Concubine Chen was jealous that my mother had two children around like her despite being neglected...¡¿ Lower Concubine Liu was stunned. After a long while, Lower Concubine Liu took a deep breath, "I''ll have to trouble you toe with me to see Consort Min." She lived in the right side hall of Consort Min¡¯s Donghua Pce with the young miss. ording to their ranks, they had to notify Consort Min first for any matter, let alone something that was likely rted to Concubine Chen who lived in the left side hall. The eunuch from the Imperial Household Department immediately bowed with hands folded in front, "I''mpletely at Concubine Liu''s service!" * It was three hours before dawn. In Qianxi No.5 Residence where the princes lived, the Fifth Prince specially asked a little eunuch to fetch a basin of cold water and press a towel on his face to keep him awake. He had tossed and turnedst night and barely slept a wink. His mind was preupied with the strange inner voice of his sister that he overheard yesterday. Could that be real? If there really was a bold viin who tried to harm his sister and her wet nurse in the middle of the night, then it would prove that his sister¡¯s other premonitions could alsoe true, including the tragic ending of him and her family. The Fifth Prince regrettedst night that he didn¡¯t care enough about the wet nurse in ordinary days. He also reflected that he was not strong enough yet. More than that, he worried whether the wet nurse and his sister had escaped the danger of being harmed by the viinte at night. With such restlessness going back and forth, he was sleepless all night. At this moment, the Fifth Prince pressed the cold towel on his forehead while keeping his eyes on the entrance of his residence. Soon, he saw a little eunuch rushing breathlessly into the yard, almost tripping over. The Fifth Prince''s heart thumped. His eyes were like swords. Before the other party lifted the door curtain, he asked, "What happened!?" The little eunuch panted and said, "Fifth Prince, I just went to fetch breakfast early. As you said, I took the chance to go to the entrance of Donghua Pce to look for the purse you dropped there. But then I saw Lower Concubine Liu taking the young miss and the tied-up wet nurse to Consort Min¡¯s main hall!" The Fifth Prince stood up abruptly and threw the towel into the basin! At the same time, in the rear alley of West Chang¡¯an Avenue in the imperial capital, the old madam of the Liu family manor also had dark circles under her eyes, worriedly looking towards the imperial pce. "Madam, a note came from the pce. It said that the wet nurse by our Answering¡¯s side is problematic!" "Our family has promised Consort Min that we would rmend two familiar wet nurses to attend the little princess!" Lady Liu knocked over the blue and white tea cup next to her with a bang. Chapter 5 Chapter 5 Donghua Pce main hall. The interior design and furnishings, such as pear wood furniture and embroidered silk door curtains from Jiangnan, were much more exquisite and luxuriouspared to the side pce where Lower Concubine Liu lived. Xiao Chuchu, who was being carried in Lower Concubine Liu''s arms after eating her fill and sleeping soundly, opened her big, wet eyes wide to look around. Eventually, she focused her curious gaze on the woman in the seat of honor, Consort Min. Consort Min, the mistress of this pce, did not have outstanding features, but she had a ruddyplexion. At the moment, she was holding a string of prayer beads, turning them as she read Buddhist scriptures. "Consort Min, are you also reading the Lotus Sutra?" Lower Concubine Liu was carrying Xiao Chuchu as she waited in Consort Min''s pce for the empress dowager''s edict regarding the handling of the wet nurse affair. She couldn''t just sit there waiting, so she had no choice but to awkwardly make small talk with Consort Min. She lived in a side building of Donghua Pce which was under Consort Min''s jurisdiction. In a way, Consort Min was her superior. But usually, Consort Min loved Buddhism and did not like talking with her and Concubine Chen. Lower Concubine Liu had lived in Donghua Pce for six years but was not very close with Consort Min. Today, Lower Concubine Liu had to ask Consort Min to uphold justice for her beloved young mistress, so she had no choice but to deal with Consort Min. Sheined bitterly to herself, but for the sake of her adorable little mistress, she had to steel herself. "I happened to have a copy of scriptures beautifully transcribed by a monk. I''ll have Autumn Pear bring them over..." In her swaddling clothes, Xiao Chuchu stretched out her little legs anxiously, [Oh no, Mother has it wrong! Consort Min can''t stand Buddhist scriptures!] Lower Concubine Liu was startled. She looked at the Lotus Sutra scroll in one of Consort Min''s hands and the nine nine eighty-one sandalwood prayer beads she was fingering in her other hand. [Although Consort Mines from the schrly Xie family, she has loved dancing with des and weapons since she was little!] Lower Concubine Liu was shocked. Xiao Chuchu pressed her little hands against the side of her swaddling clothes, struggling to wave them around. As she looked at Consort Min pretend to piously turn her prayer beads in front of her, she recalled, [Before entering the pce, the Xie family elders had forbidden her from touching des and ordered her to transcribe scriptures to tame her unruly nature, so that she could have an advantageous marriage! ] [Who would have thought her reputation for loving Buddhist rituals would spread! ] [After she entered the pce, even the Empress Dowager had heard about it. She awarded Consort Min twelve volumes of scriptures and praised her gentle and tranquil personality. When Consort Min''s father heard about this, he immediately sent her mother into the pce in the middle of the night, ordering his daughter to keep up the act no matter what! Otherwise she would be guilty of deceiving the Empress Dowager and the imperial family!] Lower Concubine Liu was bbergasted. Was there really such a thing? [So whenever there were people around, Consort Min would pretend to hold her prayer beads and read scriptures. But whenever she was behind closed doors, she would dance with des and weapons. There wasn''t a single intact porcin object in the Donghua Pce main hall because she might have smashed them!] Lower Concubine Liu was shocked. She couldn''t help but nce around the main living quarters which clearly belonged to a consort but had not a single porcin furnishing. She also couldn''t help but look at Consort Min''s hand holding the prayer beads. [So, Mother cannot discuss scriptures with Consort Min, or else she''ll end up on the cklist of people Consort Min refuses to interact with for the rest of her life! She actually doesn''t understand scriptures at all...] Lower Concubine Liu was so astonished she coughed loudly. When she looked up, she saw Consort Min''s furrowed eyebrows as expected while holding the prayer beads. Lower Concubine Liu was rmed. Was it because she had just offered to give her scriptures? Lower Concubine Liu quickly changed the subject about giving her scriptures and said, "Oh, I disliked listening to Buddhist scriptures ever since I was young. I would always fall asleep whenever I listened to them. After entering the pce this time, my mother made me bring scriptures to hand copy, wanting me to casually flip through them when I had nothing to do, but I still don''t understand anything." Consort Min''s movement of turning the prayer beads instantly stopped. The previously impassive look in her eyes seemed to flicker. Lower Concubine Liu lowered her head to look at the young girl in the baby carriage. Xiao Chuchu was also looking at her. She smiled, [Well done Mother! Consort Min has a hearty personality since she likes martial arts. Mother doesn''t pretend to like what she doesn''t in front of her and speaks frankly, so Consort Min also feels that Mother is a kindred spirit.] Hearing this, Lower Concubine Liu almost burst outughing. Looking at Consort Min again, she actually didn''t seem fierce at all, probably only in her early twenties. Thinking this, she couldn''t help but blurt out the truth, "Your Highness, I treasure my young mistress like my own life. Having someone harm her makes it impossible for me to eat or sleep well." "I cannot coexist with the one who plotted against my young mistress. I will definitely severely punish the culprit this time!" Consort Min couldn''t help but nce at Lower Concubine Liu. Usually, Lower Concubine Liu was extremely tolerant. Even when the Fifth Prince was taken by Concubine Lyu as stipted by pce rules, she endured without watching her child or asking about him. Previously, Consort Min looked down on Lower Concubine Liu a bit. A mother should be strong. If she doesn''t stand up for herself, she can''t me others for taking advantage and setting rules on her! No matter how powerful Concubine Lyu is, above her are still the Empress and Empress Dowager. Consort Min actually looked at Lower Concubine Liu with admiration today. "Rest assured, since this happened in my Donghua Pce, I will definitely give you an exnation." "For now, let''s have breakfast first." The serving maids had already prepared the dining table. Consort Min patted Lower Concubine Liu''s shoulderfortingly and told her to ce the young mistress in the baby rocker. She rarely met someone who definitely wouldn''t discuss Buddhist scriptures with her! Finally there was someone who could eat with her without her having to worry that her diningpanion would bring up scripture questions! Consort Min was extremely happy. She personally scooped a bowl of lotus seed porridge for Lower Concubine Liu. "Come, drink something warm to calm your shock¨C¨C" "Your Highness, Concubine Chen is here to pay her respects." Consort Min had just picked up the spoon when someone announced a visitor, instantly making her frown. [Grr, that deceitful, disgusting woman is here!] Xiao Chuchu babbled angrily as she kicked her legs. Lower Concubine Liu''s expression became guarded as she protectively picked up her young mistress from the baby rocker. As expected, Concubine Chen entered with an extremely worried and concerned expression. Swaying her slender waist, dressed in pink robes with tear-filled eyes, she looked as grief-stricken as if she herself was the victim. Weeping, she immediately looked towards Lower Concubine Liu, asking, "Sister Liu, I heard you and the young mistress were terrifiedst night? Who is so wicked?" Lower Concubine Liu felt panicked inside. If she hadn''t heard her daughter''s inner voice, she might have actually believed her. "Thank you for your concern, sister. We''re fine." Only then did Concubine Chen notice that they both looked ruddy and unharmed. How could this be so?! What was that wet nurse eating?! In a sh, she was even more shocked. Usually haughty Consort Min actually kept Lower Concubine Liu for a meal and even personally scooped porridge for her? "Concubine Chen, why have youe?" Consort Min was very unhappy that someone had interrupted her meal. Usually, Concubine Chen was one who liked to discuss Buddhist scriptures with her. They did not get along at all. "Making such a racket so early in the morning, have you no sense of propriety?" Consort Min said irritably. Concubine Chen: "!" [Humph humph, this viin actually came to check if we were sick or if the incident somehow involved her!] Xiao Chuchu snorted. She was very displeased with the person who had harmed her. [Look at that secretly disappointed expression of hers...] Lower Concubine Liu frowned. She hadn''t noticed before that Concubine Chen''s subtle expressions betrayed so much. Thinking so, she spoke to Consort Min right away. "The wet nurse who harmed my young mistress is from Hangzhou." Concubine Chen''s expression changed. Had they found out about her? Impossible! Chapter 6 Chapter 6 Consort Min raised her eyebrows, "Hangzhou?" Concubine Chen''s heart was in turmoil. Her wet nurse was from Hangzhou, an old local of that wet nurse. She had juste up with the idea of bribing the wet nurse to do her bidding. But her wet nurse had already been honorably discharged and returned home - surely no one would know! Yet Lower Concubine Liu had agreed to meet her before mentioning it - could Liu have already suspected her? Concubine Chen suddenly felt flustered. Plotting against the imperial bloodline, if found out, was a capital offense! No, even if the other side suspected her, they had no proof! Concubine Chen struggled to regain herposure, but in the next moment, she was pierced by Consort Min''s sharp gaze. "I recall Concubine Chen once gifted me three volumes of Buddhist scriptures, beautifully transcribed by a Hangzhou monk," said Consort Min. She had always had a good memory for things she disliked. Concubine Chen''s face drained of color in an instant. "Your Ladyship Consort Min, I have nothing to do with this matter... I am wronged. How could I reach into the wet nurse assigned by the n manor!" "Oh? I didn''t say it was you. Why the guilty conscience!" Consort Min mmed her chopsticks loudly on the table. Concubine Chen broke out in a cold sweat, instantly kneeling down. "Yes... it is I who am timid... unable to withstand Your Ladyship''s intimidation." [Wow, what a big white lotus flower~] Xiao Chuchu was engrossed in watching the show. The pce intrigue unfolding before her was even more exciting than a novel. [Consort Min loves to see acts of heroism, but rarely has the opportunity in the inner pce. Haha, my dear mother has allowed this Concubine Chen to run into Consort Min''s line of fire today~] Lower Concubine Liu almostughed out loud upon hearing this. But she quickly put on a stern face, looking at Concubine Chen. "Sister Chen, don''t talk nonsense. When did Her Ladyship Consort Min ever intimidate you? She was only mentioning the Buddhist scriptures you gifted her." Concubine Chen felt like she could grind her teeth into dust. "That''s right, if you have no guilt, why fear!" Consort Min roared. Ever since childhood, she had enjoyed ying with swords and spears, her favorite stories being those of arresting thieves. Now, seeing Concubine Chen''s flustered appearance of refusing to confess, Consort Min understood: even if Concubine Chen was not the mastermind, she was surely an aplice. "This matter shall start with a search of my quarters and Concubine Chen''s. Any pce maid who has privately received gifts or spoken with the wet nurse, step forward now. Those who conceal the truth will be rewarded five taels of silver if others expose them. Those exposed will be sent to the Pce Justice Department for punishment!" Concubine Chen looked utterly miserable. But fortunately, her wet nurse was outside the pce, beyond Consort Min''s reach to investigate! Just as she thought this, Consort Min pierced her with a sharp look. "I will also ask my brother outside the pce to help investigate any dealings the wet nurse has had beyond these walls." "The young princess nearly met with disaster in the Eastern Hua Pce. I must provide an ount to the Emperor and Empress!" Concubine Chen immediately broke out in a cold sweat. "Today, Concubine Chen has spoken improperly to me. I sentence you to copy the Lotus Sutra a hundred times in your quarters." "You shall not leave your room until I permit it!" "Get out!" Consort Min acted decisively, signaling to the pce maids beside her with her eyes. She admired martial prowess over literary pursuits, so the maids she chose were always the strongest. Immediately, two maids quickly came over and carried Concubine Chen like a chicken, escorting her towards the western pce. "You... you can''t do this... I am a Concubine after all..." Before she could finish, the pale-faced Concubine Chen had her mouth stuffed with a handkerchief by the maids. Lower Concubine Liu watched with her mouth agape. The infant Xiao Chuchu was even more delighted, her spirit invigorated as she cooed repeatedly. [Bravo Consort Min, awesome!] [Ever since she had a difficultbor delivering the Sixth Prince and became unable to bear children, my sorry father the Emperor no longer favored her.] [Powerful! Indeed, one without desires is steadfast. With Consort Min''s family background, she is invincible, not even fearing the Empress!] [Woo hoo dear mother, let''s take Consort Min as our patron. We''ll never have to worry about being bullied again!] Xiao Chuchu thought this as she let out a couple of woos towards the extremely impressive Consort Min, her soft little hands reaching out to be carried by her. Consort Min was immediately won over by this little one. She had only given birth to the Sixth Prince, but he had been quiterge in her womb, resulting in a difficultbor that injured her left leg. Now, the Sixth Prince still walked with a slight limp. He was not as lively as his mother, preferring a more quiet disposition. So when Consort Min saw the month-old Princess Xiao Chuchu so full of energy, she immediately took a liking to her. She reached out and carried the infant. "You were born well, little princess." Having no daughter of her own, Consort Min doted on Xiao Chuchu''s soft, delicate, and adorable appearance. Before Lower Concubine Liu could react, having been slowed by her mindreading, the young girl had already pulled the exquisite gold beads adorning Consort Min''s robe into her little hands. Lower Concubine Liu worried her daughter might injure her fingers and hurried to stop her. But before she could move, Consort Min smiled and reassured her. "Don''t be harsh with her. Let her y - she''s just a child." Consort Min happily untied the beaded sachet from her robe and ced it in the little one''s hands. She even removed a heavy five-tael golden dragon bracelet from her wrist and dangled it before Xiao Chuchu. "Your Ladyship Consort Min..." "Consider it a gift from me to the little princess, to help calm her after her fright," said Consort Min, unconcerned about the valuables. [Woo hoo, Auntie Consort Min is so generous!] Xiao Chuchu, hugging therge bracelet, felt a little touched. [When I grow up, Chuchu will be filial to you too~] [You love meat, Chuchu will gift you candied beef ribs in the future.] Consort Min loves meat? She had previously cultivated an image of revering Buddhism, often eating vegetarian at pce banquets. Was this merely an act by Consort Min? Lower Concubine Liu took a deep breath. After Consort Min grew tired of carrying the child, she moved a te of crystal meat delicacy in front of her. Lower Concubine Liu didn''t eat much meat herself in the mornings, but if Consort Min liked it... she could trade her favorite stir-fried eggs for it. "Your Ladyship Consort Min, this meat delicacy looks good. Try some - my own mother says one cannot always be vegetarian or they''ll lose strength," Lower Concubine Liu earnestly advised. Consort Min''s eyes lit up. Lower Concubine Liu really knew how to cater to her tastes! Unlike the Empress, who thinking she revered Buddhism, would award her a te of vegetable stems every year at the pce banquet - which she disliked but had to finish! Consort Min immediately eyed the crystal meat delicacy, feigning reluctance at first as if being forced to try it. She picked up the thickest piece of meat with her chopsticks and put it in her mouth. After tasting it, her whole face brightened. Then, seeing Lower Concubine Liu share all the meat dishes from her own te, Consort Min feltpletely at ease. Finally, she didn''t have to pretend anymore! No more feigning interest in discussing Buddhist scriptures, no more keeping up the facade of revering Buddhism and preferring a vegetarian diet! Not only did she havepany for this meal, but she could also eatfortably. "Good, I''ll take your advice and eat some meat," said Consort Min. She felt she had been blind before, only now realizing what a treasure Lower Concubine Liu was. "Sister, we''ve spent six years together. Just call me Sister Min from now on." "There''s no need for formalities between us." Lower Concubine Liu was utterly stunned. So this was how easy it was to be a sister to Consort Min? Chapter 7 Chapter 7 [Woo-woo, Lower Concubine Liu''s breakfast is so bountiful¡ªbeef rolls, sliced mutton, longan steamed buns, salted eggs...] Xiao Chuchu was in her swaddling clothes, watching Lower Concubine Liu and Consort Min dine together, her mouth almost watering. Unfortunately, she hadn''t grown teeth yet. [These steamed buns, one bite at a time, with the juice still oozing from inside, is this the legendary filling of 80% lean and 20% fat meat? I can smell the savory aroma even from my cradle.] Lower Concubine Liu was picking up a longan steamed bun, hearing her daughter''s craving thoughts, her eyes brimming withughter. Her daughter will definitely grow up to be a foodie. For her daughter, she must strive to rise in status. Otherwise, there wouldn''t be so many of her daughter''s favorite dishes on the breakfast table. Lower Concubine Liu thought to herself, apanying her daughter''s thoughts, she ended up eating more than usual. Even Consort Min was stuffed. Havingpany, being entertained by the little one, and being able to eat meat, Consort Min unknowingly ate twice her usual amount this morning. Not long after, an eunuch from the Empress'' Kunning Pce came to deliver a message. "The maid whomitted the offense has been handed over to the Ministry of Justice for severe punishment, and further investigations will continue to determine if anyone instigated her!" "Consort Min is to select a reliable wet nurse to take care of Lower Concubine Liu and the little Princess from today onwards." Consort Min immediately acknowledged the order. "Lower Concubine Liu was distressedst night, the Empress excuses her from morning court and allows her a month''s rest, rewarding her with a jade ruyi scepter and three bolts of Sichuan satin." "Lower Concubine Liu''s maid Qiuli, who protected her mistress, is rewarded twenty taels of silver and three bolts of Hangzhou silk." Lower Concubine Liu also knelt to express her gratitude. [The Empress is so good at winning hearts, eh? Well, she''speting with the Noble Consort, so she has to rally the consorts and concubines in the harem!] [But she and the Noble Consort are both vicious hypocrites.] Xiao Chuchu harrumphed and blew raspberries, eyeing the kind-looking eunuch sent by the Empress with skepticism. [My birth mother is of humble origins, so the Empress is only too happy to keep her in the palm of her hand, offering her little favors and securing my brother''s allegiance as a Prince.] [But once my birth mother and brother start to shine and threaten the Empress and her Crown Prince''s favor, they''ll be the first she eliminates.] [Concubine Rong who once enjoyed the Emperor''s affection, and her unnamed infant son who died prematurely, were victims of the Empress.] Lower Concubine Liu felt her heart gripped for a moment. Wasn''t Concubine Rong the Empress'' cousin? When Concubine Rong was alive, the Empress often rewarded her and even granted her a seat in Kunning Pce. Before Concubine Rong gave birth, the Empress inquired after her well-being and sent two imperial physicians to attend to her. The entire harem knew that offending Concubine Rong was tantamount to offending the Empress. Yet the Empress was only putting on an act, being so vicious behind the scenes? [The Empress has informants around every consort and prince.] [Ah, my brother should have one around him too... but I can''t recall their name at the moment...] What! Lower Concubine Liu''s previously rxed expression instantly tensed up. "Lower Concubine Liu, there''s no need to be so guarded. The Empress has always been magnanimous." The eunuch from Kunning Pce, seeing Lower Concubine Liu''s solemn kneeling posture and how she didn''t even dare to breathe heavily, smiled and helped her up. Yet at his touch, Lower Concubine Liu thought of Concubine Rong and her infant son who died at the Empress'' hands, and her body stiffened even more, her expression grave. The eunuch couldn''t help but nod inwardly, this Lower Concubine Liu was no threat. "The Empress'' message has been delivered, so I shall take my leave." Consort Min slipped him a small money pouch, which he epted into his sleeve without changing his expression before turning to leave. "Sister, we need to select a trustworthy new maid for the little Princess." Consort Min pondered, not noticing Lower Concubine Liu''s change of demeanor. "Here''s what we''ll do, I''ll have my mother rmend two, she has some connections with the Head Eunuch of the Imperial Household Department through her family''s third paternal uncle." Upon hearing this, Lower Concubine Liu was overjoyed and sincerely expressed her gratitude, "Thank you so much, Sister!" Consort Min smiled, "Thank me? Then just bring the little Princess along to dine with me more often from now on." Lower Concubine Liu was stunned for a moment, then found it endearing. [Ah, Aunt Consort Min''s wish is so simple and unadorned.] [No wonder everyone else in the harem thinks she''s a vegetarian, only my birth mother persuades her to eat meat secretly.] Lower Concubine Liu suppressed herughter, took the bracelet and hollow golden ball fragrance case gifted by Consort Min, and returned to her side pce with her daughter. Xiao Chuchu felt the gold bracelet tucked in her swaddling clothes and the hollow carved golden ball fragrance case, her mouth stretched into a wide grin. Lower Concubine Liu couldn''t help but poke her daughter''s tiny nose before nting a kiss on it. Her daughter was truly her blessing. As for the Empress, she would have to tread carefully from now on. Lower Concubine Liu reminded herself sternly upon returning to her chambers. Inside, the burning charcoal fire was vigorous, soon giving off wisps of grey smoke. Lower Concubine Liu frowned. She couldn''t let her daughter suffer with her. She had to climb higher! If what her daughter said was true, that she would meet an ill fate if she didn''t fight or struggle, then she might as well fight! She couldn''t let those tragic events her daughter foresawe to pass. She had to gain a firm foothold in the harem, allow her reincarnated little Princess to grow up happily and healthily! * In Kunning Pce. "Your Majesty, Consort Min has punished Concubine Chen by confining her to copy sutras." The kind-looking eunuch who had just delivered the message knelt respectfully before a woman in herte twenties wearing a regal yellow phoenix robe. Despite her age, she remained stunningly beautiful, with dignified features and a benevolent air. However, if Lower Concubine Liu were present, she would be horrified. Just as Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts revealed, the Empress had nted informants around the consorts, concubines, and princes. Consort Min had just punished Concubine Chen during that morning''s meal, but in less than half an hour, the Empress already knew about it. Clearly, they had an informant in Donghua Pce too, possibly more than one! "Concubine Chen was most likely involved in the plot to harm the Third Princess." The eunuch bowed and said, "Just as Your Majesty suspected, Consort Min is not as oblivious as she appears, merely devoted to Buddhism. She has some intelligence as well." "After all, she is the legitimate daughter of a second-rank official." The Empress pursed her dignified lips, taking up a pair of silver scissors and smiling as she snipped off a fully bloomed crimson peony. "And what of Lower Concubine Liu?" The eunuch immediately smiled, "A petty character, nervous and flustered in front of this servant, without a hint of dignified bearing. No wonder she bore a Prince and a Princess without catching the Emperor''s eye, she is no threat." The Empress smiled and nodded, "Send word to the Study, have the Imperial Tutor examine the Princes today." Like mother, like son. The son of such a lowly concubine would surely not be qualified for major responsibilities. The throne would ultimately belong to her elder brother. By distancing the Fifth Prince from the throne, he could then be her elder brother''s aid! And Lower Concubine Liu would obediently remain under her control! * In the side pce of Donghua Pce. Lying on the inner side of the bed, Xiao Chuchu watched as her beautiful birth mother yed peekaboo with her using a silk handkerchief. As a non-infant reincarnator, she wasn''t amused by such games. But her birth mother was so breathtakingly beautiful, surpassing modern celebrities, watching her appear and disappear from behind the azure blue silk handkerchief was truly a visual delight. However, soon the sound of system notifications rang out. [Yesterday''s pce intrigue score has been tallied.] [Total score: 125.] [You can now unlock one term draw (100 points per draw)] Chapter 8 Chapter 8 Xiao Chuchu had already umted 127 points? Xiao Chuchu opened her eyes and saw a ghostly window appear before her. [Yesterday''s Point Rewards:] [1. Avoided the vicious nursemaid''s attempt to harm her once: 50 points.] [2. epted a money pouch from Eunuch Liu (low rank) of the Imperial Household Department, gaining slight favor: 10 points.] [3. Intimidated Concubine Chen (low rank), the hidden mastermind: 10 points.] [4. Gained Consort Min''s (mid rank) significant favor: 50 points.] [5. Reduced the Kunning Pce Empress''s (high rank) suspicion slightly: 5 points.] [Spend 100 points for a term draw?] Of course! Xiao Chuchu moved her little hand. Instantly, the text box that only she could see disappeared, reced by a bright red lottery box. The system''s graphic design was quite practical. Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but want to tease it as Lower Concubine Liu agreed to y with her for a while and went outside to instruct the pce maids to air out the baby''s clothes and baskets. Xiao Chuchu reached her little hand into the lottery box. Almost simultaneously, a text box popped up. [You drew Body Fragrance.] [This fragrance does note from incense, but naturally emanates from the body. Subtle when still, yet alluring when in motion, it can attract butterflies.] [Fragrance Effect (Beginner): Within the range of this fragrance, it can refresh the mind and has a chance of increasing learning speed.] Xiao Chuchu was somewhat surprised. Soon after, a faint, refreshing floral scent wafted around her little nose. "Hmm?" Lower Concubine Liu finished instructing the pce maids and walked back into the room. As soon as she picked up her daughter, she was taken aback. She grabbed Xiao Chuchu''s little hand and sniffed it. A faint floral fragrance, soothing and refreshing, entered her nostrils. This scent was different from the sandalwood balls that Consort Min used, which were heavy and stable. Xiao Chuchu''s fragrance was light and elegant. The more Lower Concubine Liu smelled it, the more she liked it. "Good Chuchu, you''re much more fragrant than your brother was!" She couldn''t help but bend down and kiss her daughter''s fragrant little palm. It was much sweeter than a typical infant''s milky scent. Last night, she had been anxious and didn''t sleep well. After returning from Consort Min''s ce, she mustered the energy to y with her daughter for a while. Now, she felt exhausted and had a slight headache. But after smelling her daughter''s faint, refreshing fragrance, her heavy body felt lighter. The headache also dissipated, and her spirit revived. Even regarding how to respond to the Kunning Pce Empress''s provocation, Lower Concubine Liu now felt her thoughts were sharp and had some ideas. "Chuchu, your mother must have done good deeds in her previous life to have prayed for you before Buddha." "You are truly your mother''s treasure." [Mother, I love you too~ Muah~] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes sparkled. Muah? What kind of celestial world''s words were those? Lower Concubine Liu couldn''t help but smile. She nursed her daughter, and then the mother and daughter snuggled together for a nap. Around noon, Eunuch Liu from the Imperial Household Department came, bringing the newly organized list of wet nurses for Consort Min to review. Consort Min directly let Eunuch Liu show it to Lower Concubine Liu first. Eunuch Liu was happy to do this favor. "Lower Concubine, this time I selected wet nurses from the Imperial Guard of the Upper Yellow Banner and the Upper White Banner. Several of them have an excellent reputation and are of the highest character, clean and quick-handed." Originally, he didn''t need toe in person for this matter, but early in the morning, Lower Concubine Liu had saved him face by not ming him for the previous incident with the nursemaid. So he had to show his gratitude. For delivering this list, he didn''t let his subordinates handle it but came himself. Lower Concubine Liu epted the list and wanted to make some small talk, but Eunuch Liu politely took his leave. "Lower Concubine, there''s no need to rush. Please take your time looking it over. Consort Min has said that she will have people discreetly investigate each wet nurse outside the pce before making the final selection from this list." "If you have any questions, Lower Concubine, feel free to send someone to let me know. I will not disturb your rest with the young Princess." [This eunuch is quite considerate. He knows my mother didn''t sleep wellst night and needs to rest.] [As expected, those who manage to hold positions in the pce are no simpletons. They are all sharp and clever.] Xiao Chuchu was eagerly watching the show unfold. I see, this was the case. Her daughter had reminded her again! Lower Concubine Liu hurriedly turned around and smiled at Eunuch Liu, who had a "I just happened to pass by" look on his face. "Eunuch Liu is truly attentive to details." Eunuch Liu''s eyes lit up. For servants, they didn''t fear hard work. They only feared that after their hard work, their masters would not appreciate their efforts. Someone like Lower Concubine Liu, who saw the good in her servants, was more worthy of following than some of the arrogant or dimwitted masters in the pce. Thereupon, Eunuch Liu regarded Lower Concubine Liu with more respect. He bowed deeply and politely withdrew. [Gained slight favor from Eunuch Liu Xin (low rank) of the Imperial Household Department: 20 points] Xiao Chuchu was surprised. This counted too. She grinned. But soon after, she received another notification. [Gained Eunuch Liu Xin''s (low rank) of the Imperial Household Department subordination: 30 points]. Xiao Chuchu: "?" Eunuch Liu had already gone out. Both she and her mother were in the inner room. But soon after, as shey in her cradle, she heard Eunuch Liu''s respectful greeting at the door. "This servant pays respects to the Fifth Prince!" His voice was particrly loud and respectful. It turned out that after Eunuch Liu withdrew, he immediately encountered the Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, who was hurrying to see his birth mother and sister. This time, Eunuch Liu was truly startled. There had always been rumors in the pce that the Fifth Prince was cold by nature and disdained his birth mother''s low status. It was said he rarely visited Lower Concubine Liu but instead treated his foster mother, Consort Li, like his own. Therefore, most servants in the pce looked down on Lower Concubine Liu. They often forgot that Lower Concubine Liu had a prince at her side! But today, when Eunuch Liu saw the anxious expression on the Fifth Prince''s face, he realized the rumors should not be believed. After all, a mother and son share a deep bond as blood rtives. Eunuch Liu slowed his steps. Sure enough, he soon heard the Fifth Prince rush into the room, urgently asking, "Mother, I''vee to see you and my sister. How are you and my sister? This morning, I heard that you two were almost harmedst night..." Tsk. The Fifth Prince still favored his birth mother. Eunuch Liu of the Imperial Household Department could not help but regard Lower Concubine Liu with more importance. He then hurriedly left. [1 point spent to redeem a 1-minute dynamic video and inner thoughts of Eunuch Liu.] Xiao Chuchu inside the room raised her eyebrows. This system had quiteprehensive functions. After watching the redeemed video of the situation outside and Eunuch Liu''s thoughts, she also understood that he was going to invest in her mother for her brother''s sake. In just one morning, thanks to her mother''s words of praise and her brother''s brief appearance, the low-ranking but influential Eunuch Liu from the Imperial Household Department had gained a surge of subordination, earning thirty pce intrigue points. Xiao Chuchu beamed. Perhaps she could draw lots again tomorrow. As she was thinking about this, suddenly a pair of soap-scented, youthful yet reliable arms gently encircled her. "Little sister." Xiao Chuchu looked up to see the Fifth Prince''s expressionless little face. Although he was already ustomed to hiding his emotions, not letting others discern his longing for his mother''s affection, at this moment, his ck eyes still betrayed his concern for his sister. The Fifth Prince was truly frightened. Even after hearing from his mother that everything was fine, he still wasn''t fully reassured. He warmed his hands and immediately embraced his sister, feeling her little hands for temperature. Finding them neither cool nor hot, he finally rxed. [It''s so nice to have an older brother~] In her previous life, Xiao Chuchu was an orphan and had never experienced a family member''s care. She had rarely been treated with such affection. [No amount of money could make me trade this brother away~] The Fifth Prince''s expressionless little face quickly softened. "Mother, from now on, I wille to see my sister whenever I have free time after sses in the study room." "Rest assured, I will exin the situation to Consort Li. My sister is still young, yet she was almost harmed. If I turn a blind eye to this, Father Emperor and Mother Empress will see me as a cold-blooded person who disregards family ties." In this way, Consort Li would also agree for him toe. After all, he was raised under Consort Li''s knees, and Consort Li also hoped that he would gain the Emperor''s attention. Otherwise, even if he was raised well, it would be useless. "Good. Cheng Qian, you''re thinking correctly." Lower Concubine Liu agreed, feeling gratified and fortunate that her son had matured overnight. They all needed to do well and avoid what her daughter had mentioned. "You''re the elder brother, so you must love and protect the young Princess from now on." The Fifth Prince nodded firmly, "Mother, your son will do so." Xiao Chuchu was somewhat immersed in the blissful surroundings of familial affection. If this was a dream, she hoped she would never wake up. She didn''t want to be alone anymore; she wanted someone to care for her. But in an instant, her expression changed. [Oh no, I remember that on the second day after catching a cold, I went to the study to inspect the Princes'' lessons.] [My brother was distracted due to worrying about me and Mother, so he performed poorly and was publicly caned on the palms by the study instructor. This mistake was recorded in the imperial diary!] The Fifth Prince, embracing his sister''s arms, stiffened for a moment. Chapter 9 Chapter 9 [Oh, my dashing brother, hurry back and study your books!] Even though the room was warmed by burning charcoal, Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince Cheng Qian still felt a chill in the air. Xiao Chuchu, however, was reminiscing about the contents of a book. The more she recalled, the graver the matter seemed, leading to a series of tragic events in the future. [My brother was beaten by his tutor, publicly humiliated, and had to call for a court physician due to his injuries, which was recorded in official records. Three dayster, at the grand winter ceremony, our father the Emperor didn''t allow my brother to make an appearance!] [This incident caused pce maids, eunuchs, and even ministers from the previous dynasty to think that my brother had lost the Emperor''s favor!] [Afterwards, my brother was looked down upon for a long time, so much so that when the time came to rmend a Crown Prince, not a single minister considered him!] Xiao Chuchu''s recollections came flooding back. Fifth Prince froze for a moment, but quickly regained his emotionless demeanor. He gratefully reached out and caressed his sister''s little face. What his sister had foretold the previous night had now be a reality. Then this incident in the study room would also likely ur. Last night, he had been worried and unable to sleep, feeling drained. This morning, upon learning of the eunuch''s affair, he was utterly distraught. He pondered back and forth, wondering how to prevent his mother from being buried alive, and how to avoid the tragedy of him being unable to protect his grandfather''s family due to the new Emperor''s suspicion. In his current state, he would undoubtedly be unable to concentrate during today''s study session. Even though he could normally recite the texts after reading them a few times, today he would most likely fail his tutor''s questioning. He would certainly be punished by the tutor! And then, as recorded by the official, due to his mistake, he would be unable to attend the ceremonial rites as a prince, which his sister had predicted could very well happen. Fifth Prince looked at his sister with gratitude, deeply relieved. If not for her, he would have fallen into this cmity. With this thought, he nced at Lower Concubine Liu. His mother couldn''t hear his sister''s thoughts, could she? Lower Concubine Liu was also anxious, but afterst night''s experience, she had be much braver. After all, the facts proved that her daughter''s thoughts could alter reality. So Lower Concubine Liu remainedposed and gave Fifth Prince a smile. "It''s the depths of winter, and Cheng Qian rushed here without even wearing a cloak. Aren''t you freezing?" Indeed, his mother couldn''t hear his sister''s thoughts. Fifth Prince breathed a sigh of relief, as he now had an excuse to return. "Your son hurried to see you and your daughter, and didn''t feel the cold earlier. But now I do feel a chill." Lower Concubine Liu promptly handed him a hand warmer, "Your sister and I are fine, so you can rest assured. The sun isn''t shining today, and it might rainter." "Cheng Qian, you should return to the Qianxi No.5 Residence while the weather is still good." "If it rains, stay inside and study diligently. The new year is approaching, and in the past, when I was at home, your grandfather would often test your uncles'' studies around this time." "If they didn''t do well, their new year''s red envelopes would be confiscated." Fifth Prince''s expression turned grave. His grandfather was indeed wise. He promptly stood up, "Yes, Mother. After seeing my sister, I am at ease. I will certainly study hard in theing days." Lower Concubine Liu smiled and nodded. [It seems today''s lesson is from the Xian Wen chapter of the Analects, verse fourteen...] Fifth Prince paused. The fourteenth verse of the Xian Wen chapter of the Analects? That was precisely the content he was supposed to study today! He swiftly strode out. * After noon, the princes had an hour of rest, during which a torrential downpour began. The scheduled archery lessons were temporarily canceled. All the princes had to stay in the study room to review their academic lessons. However, without the tutor present, the study room was quite noisy. "Fifth Brother, is it true that your sister was almost harmed yesterday?" Sixth Prince walked up to Fifth Prince''s desk. Consort Min was his birth mother, and today her pce maid sent him a message, asking him to look after Fifth Brother in the study room. He shouldn''t let Fifth Brother worry, and certainly shouldn''t let him be bullied. Sixth Prince was three months younger than Fifth Prince, but he disliked physical activity and loved eating, so his build was broader and more stout than Fifth Prince''s. "Fifth Brother, don''t worry. With my mother protecting your mother and sister!" Sixth Prince pounded his chest. Fifth Prince looked up from the Analects, and the usual cold indifference in his eyes had softened somewhat, "Thank you, Sixth Younger Brother." "So, what''s the truth about this matter?" "Fifth Brother, is it true or false?" The other princes also looked over curiously. "Thank you, brothers, for your concern. My sister is fine." Fifth Prince stood up and bowed to his Eldest Brother, Fourth Brother, and the others. He didn''t know which prince his sister had referred to as the new Emperor. For fearing his poprity among the people, the new Emperor had his entire maternal n killed. The new Emperor was truly cruel! Fifth Prince suppressed the ominous feeling in his eyes and quickly sat down, picking up his pen to copy the book again. Third Prince found it rather dull. He had thought something significant had happened, but Fifth Prince ended it with just a sentence. He nced out at the heavy rain and sighed. "Such a nice day for archery lessons, and it''s ruined." Saying that, he took out a fiction book hidden between his textbooks and began reading. "Fifth Brother, you shouldn''t work so hard either. The rest of us have no choice, but you can take advantage of your sister''s illness and request a day off to visit her. Enjoy a leisurely day!" Fourth Prince looked at Fifth Prince enviously. He found it ufortable sitting in the study room. "Fourth Brother, how can you say such a thing? It''s not a good thing that Fifth Brother''s beloved sister almost fell ill. How could Fifth Brother take advantage of this to ck off?" Sixth Prince muttered softly. He had a vague feeling that Fourth Brother''s words were inappropriate. If something happened to his own mother, he would be so worried that he would eat less even during meals, let alone enjoy a leisurely day. However, sitting at his desk, he couldn''t help but fidget and let his mind wander, thinking about where he would dine for the evening meal. Today was the fifteenth, so he should probably go to Mom Qi''s residence, as his own mother would surely be chanting sutras and eating vegetarian again. He disliked vegetarian food! He wanted to eat meat, perhaps some fried beef balls would be nice. "Ahem." Cheng Qian watched Sixth Prince holding a book, yet his mind was wandering, and he felt exasperated. In this room were all the princes, with the youngest being Seventh Youngest Brother, who had just turned five years old. Then there was Sixth Prince, who was only three months younger than him. However, despite their simr ages, they rarely yed together. Their foster mothers, Consort Qi and Concubine Li, were at odds with each other. Although his own birth mother, Lower Concubine Liu, lived with Sixth Prince''s birth mother, Consort Min, from his observations, Lower Concubine Liu and Consort Min didn''t have a close rtionship either. So, apart from encountering each other in the study room, they seldom interacted privately. Moreover, they didn''t have much inmon to discuss. Sixth Younger Brother liked to eat andze around. He himself didn''t share those interests. Cheng Qian felt pensive, but when he recalled that Sixth Younger Brother had stood up for him earlier, almost offending Fourth Brother, he couldn''t help but feel touched. "Sixth Younger Brother." Cheng Qian noticed that the Analects was tucked at the very bottom of Sixth Prince''s desk, and he couldn''t help but frown. "This morning when I went to see my sister, my mother told me that in the past, my grandfather would often test his grandchildren''s studies around the new year." Sixth Prince was startled. They were of simr ages and sat closest to each other. Normally, when they spoke, their voices would be drowned out by the other princes'' conversations in the study room. The others didn''t hear him. Cheng Qian nced at Sixth Prince, "Have you mastered today''s lesson from the tutor?" "If you haven''t, I can go over it with you again." ... Less than half an hourter, footsteps could be heard outside the study room. The head tutor of the study room, Chancellor Lu Zhen of the Hanlin Academy, entered with two other schrs. "Princes, due to the heavy rain today, we will take this opportunity to evaluate your recent studies." The previously rowdy Third Prince and Fourth Prince instantly froze. Sixth Prince''s mouth fell open. He resisted the urge to turn around and look at Fifth Brother! "Confucius said: ''He who possesses virtue must have something to say, but he who has something to say may not necessarily possess virtue. The benevolent man must have the courage to face adversity, but the courageous man may not necessarily be benevolent.'' Exin this statement." Sixth Prince''s mouth gaped wider. Wasn''t this one of the three chapters that Fifth Brother had just helped him review? ¡ªThe fourteenth verse of the Xian Wen chapter! "You have the time it takes for one incense stick to burn. Write down your answers, which will then be presented to the Emperor for review." Chapter 10 Chapter 10 [I wonder how my Brother is doing?] After lunch, Xiao Chuchuy on the small bed, held by Lower Concubine Liu as they watched the rain fall steadily outside. But soon, her thoughts drifted to the study room upstairs. [Has Brother studied that passage thoroughly...] [If the essay is poorly written, it might be presented before the Emperor Father for public punishment. This afternoon, several Grand Secretaries are meeting with the Emperor Father.] Lower Concubine Liu looked a bit worried upon hearing this. But she quickly let it go, patting her young daughter''s arm. She had already hinted to her son about her grandfather''s examination earlier. Although her son was not very expressive, he was intelligent. He takes the slightest hint. And whatever he said, he would always follow through - if he said he would return to the study room to review his lessons diligently, he would do so without fail. Lower Concubine Liu had confidence in her son, as she had secretly asked Qiu Li to keep tabs on the Fifth Prince in the past, so she understood him well. "Is Chuchu thinking about her Brother?" "Your Brother is likely studying. He has been intelligent since young, not quite to the level of total recall after one reading, but his memorization has always been swift." "Once he finishes studying and the weather clears up, he cane y with you." Lower Concubine Liu gently coaxed her daughter. Seeing Chuchu''s tiny body, she could not bear to see the child''s worried pout. After a moment of thought, Lower Concubine Liu asked Qiu Li to prepare ink and paper. "Chuchu, would you like Mother to teach you some characters?" Xiao Chuchu: "..." Learning at such a young age? No way! She was still just a baby. She spread her hands and looked at therge characters, nodding off to sleep before long. Lower Concubine Liu could onlyugh and put away the paper and ink. "It''s almost the hour of the Dragon." "The examination must have started, I suppose." She gazed towards the study room upstairs, lost in thought. * In the Qianqing Pce. Three Grand Secretaries were resting in the side room, drinking tea as they awaited the Emperor''s summons. They heard the report from the study room teacher, Chancellor Lu Zhen of the Hanlin Academy, from inside: "Your Majesty, here are the essays submitted by the Princes today for your review." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, dressed in a dragon-patterned casual robe despite being in his early thirties, remained handsome. He epted the seven sheets of paper presented by the eunuch scribe and unfolded them one by one. "Please have a seat, Chancellor Lu." Lu Zhen was already sixty years old with graying hair. Not only was he the highest-ranked Chancellor of the Hanlin Academy at the third rank, but he had also been the tutor to Xiao Yunzhou when he was the Crown Prince. Xiao Yunzhou knew Lu Zhen had true schrly talents, and always respected him. Even after his sons grew up one after another, he still invited Lu Zhen to teach them. Xiao Yunzhou himself, having received teachings from Lu Zhen in the Crown Prince''s residence, was well-versed in the Four Books and Five ssics and widely read in various books, surpassing even the editorial schrs of the Hanlin Academy in knowledge. As he looked over the Princes'' essays, he smiled and nodded approvingly. "This is on the ''Constitutional Questions''?" "As Master Zhu Xi said, ''One of virtue hasposure within and brilliance emanating outward.''" "Well done, the Eldest Prince''s essay discusses cultivating virtuous conduct throughnguage. One must nurture the literary essence within to radiate it externally. He has exined it very properly." Xiao Yunzhou showed his admiration. The Eldest Prince was only eleven years old this year, yet he had incorporated quite a few ssical allusions in his writing. "The Eldest Prince must have been diligent in his studies." As for the Second Prince''s work, while not deviating from the topic, it was rather mediocre. "Passable." For an ordinary child, this would be considered not bad. But for a Prince receiving personal tutge from the schrs of the Hanlin Academy, this essay was too simplistic. When he turned to the essays of the Third Prince and Fourth Prince, Xiao Yunzhou could not help but frown. "One is nine years old, the other eight, and even Master Zhu''s interpretations are written incorrectly." As their own teacher, he was well aware. There was no way the exnations of the ssics would not be taught properly during lessons. "Your Majesty, please restrain your anger. The Third and Fourth Princes are still young after all." Xiao Yunzhou frowned. "I understand, I do not expect them to write brilliant literary pieces. But if they cannot even reproduce what the study room teacher has lectured, it truly disappoints me." Recently, with the Jurchen invading the borders and the Yellow River flooding again, his mood had been foul. Seeing his sons'' careless schoolwork only added to his irritation. Especially those ranked third and fourth - if these elder brothers'' work was already unintelligible, what could be expected from the younger fifth, sixth and seventh ones? The more Xiao Yunzhou thought about it, the more exasperated he felt. He nced at the elderly teacher Lu sitting below. The old instructor must havee today specifically to vex him. Of the seven Princes attending lessons in the study room, only two could produce passable work? "Chancellor Lu, please do not consider saving face for my sake." "Those who do not apply themselves should be punished ordingly! Back when the previous Emperor was alive, you did not go easy on caning my palms, did you?" Xiao Yunzhou red at the aged schr irritably. Chancellor Lu immediately stood up. "Your Majesty is wise, this old servant obeys yourmand." Xiao Yunzhou shook his head, prepared to quickly nce through the remaining three younger Princes'' work and be done with it. But to his surprise, the Fifth Prince''s neat calligraphy caught his eye on the next page! This essaypletely overshadowed the previous two wed pieces. The writing flowed seamlessly from virtues tonguage, from benevolence to courage, bnced and steady, not inferior at all to even the Second Prince''s work. Compared to the mistakes in the Fourth Prince''s work, this essay stood out as particrly articte and clear in its ideas. Full of upright vigor! From the calligraphy to the content, this essay gave Xiao Yunzhou a sense of rity. "Excellent!" He could not help but praise, mming the table. Upon seeing the signature, hemended it even more proudly, "I remember, the young Fifth Prince is only seven years old this year. Well taught, Chancellor Lu. Reward Chancellor Lu with three jars of the newly acquired frozen sea cucumber!" Chancellor Lu bowed his head respectfully and immediately stood up. "Thank you, Your Majesty." In his heart, he could not help but feel amazed - at times, luck truly yed a significant role. In fact, the Fifth Prince''s essay was no better than those of the Eldest and Second Princes, given the age gap of three to four years, with differences in writing ability and reading experience. But by chance, the Fifth Prince was fortunate to be ced after the Third Prince, poor atposition, and the Fourth Prince, who preferred ying over studying. After seeing their substandard work, the Fifth Prince''s essay seemed to rise above them inparison! "This old servant is unworthy of such praise." Chancellor Lu breathed a long sigh of relief. It was also fortunate that the Fifth Prince had been diligent - Lu Zhen had been teaching Xiao Yunzhou since he was the Crown Prince, so he understood the Emperor well and sensed the signs of his rising anger earlier. Having endured the terrible essays from the Third and Fourth Princes, if the next one was also iprehensible, Xiao Yunzhou would definitely have meted out severe punishment! Thankfully, the Fifth Prince had studied hard, otherwise Lu Zhen would have borne the brunt of the Emperor''s wrath. "Hm? The Sixth Prince has also done rather well?" Now that his mood had improved, Xiao Yunzhou flipped further and was surprised to find that the six-year-old Sixth Prince had also written the interpretations correctly. Although aside from the interpretations, he could not write much else. But considering his young age, it would be eptable to turn a blind eye. Xiao Yunzhou nodded approvingly. "Reward the Eldest, Second, Fifth and Sixth Princes each with amb soup pot." "As for the Third and Fourth Princes, Royal Tutor, give them a sound caning on their palms!" With the contrast of their younger brothers, these two seemed even more inept! Xiao Yunzhou set down the stack of essays. "For the winter sacrifices in three days, these two are not permitted to attend. Confine them to their rooms to copy books instead!" * In the study room. The Princes either remained focused or sat on pins and needles. "Fourth and Fifth Brothers, how did you do on your essays?" The Third Prince, clearly not having done well, tried to find someone to share the me with. The Fourth Prince cleverly sought out the one who likely performed the worst, sneering towards the Sixth Prince, "I definitely did better than the Sixth Brother. Not to mention writing an essay, the Sixth Brother probably couldn''t even recite the basic interpretations, right?" The Sixth Prince puffed out his chubby cheeks. While usually at the bottom during examinations, he disliked being mocked. Moreover, earlier that morning the Fifth Brother had helped him review! Seeing his indignant expression, the Fourth Princeughed even more, then turned his mocking gaze towards the Fifth Prince Chenggan. "And you, Fifth Brother, with your Mother''s incident this morning, you must not have been paying attention in ss." "Ah, the study room teacher really is ruthless. Deliberately examining us at a time like this, what will you do, Fifth Brother?" "I saw you only started studying in the afternoon, you can''t have done better than the newly begun Eighth Brother, can you? Hahaha!" The Eighth Younger Brother had not even started attending the study room lessons yet. This was clearly derision and scorn. The Fifth Prince Chenggan lowered his eyes, his expression nk. The Fourth Prince, the son of the Honored Concubine Li, had never missed an opportunity to bully and insult him. "Fourth Brother, how dare you speak such nonsense!" the Sixth Prince angrily stood up. He had just received guidance on literaryposition from the Fifth Prince, and now unknowingly took the Fifth Prince''s side. "How dare you mock the Fifth Brother and insult us?" "Insolent fool! When have I ever insulted you? How dare you speak to your elder brother like that!" the Fourth Prince raged. "Sixth Brother, do not disrespect our elder brother," the Third Prince frowned. Cheng Qian pulled the furious Sixth Brother back. He nced out of the window. The figure of Chancellor Lu Zhen was reflected in thetticed window of the upper study room. "Third Prince, Fourth Prince, why are you causing such amotion!" As expected, Chancellor Lu reprimanded them as soon as he entered the upper study room. "This humble subject has been ordered by His Majesty to administer thirty strokes of the bamboo rod to the Third Prince and Fourth Prince!" The Third Prince and Fourth Prince were stunned. Chapter 11 Chapter 11 [Your legitimate elder brother has earned modest praise from Pce Tutor Lu Zhen (Middle Rank), gaining 20 points in the pce struggle.] [Your legitimate elder brother has earned modest praise from the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou (High Rank), gaining 50 points in the pce struggle.] [Your legitimate elder brother has gained significant favor from Sixth Prince Cheng Shan, gaining 30 points in the pce struggle.] Xiao Chuchu was admiring her mother Lower Concubine Liu embroidering flowers in the main hall, struggling to keep her eyes open from drowsiness. Suddenly, she was jolted awake by three consecutive system prompts. Just as she was pondering this, she heard the steady voice of a young man. "Prince Cheng Qian greets Mother." It was her brother! Xiao Chuchu made an effort to prop herself up and looked toward the handsome young Fifth Prince entering the room. [Did Brother pass the examination?] Fifth Prince Cheng Qian had just entered the room when he heard his sister''s thoughts. Although he had maintained a stern expression all the way from the Pce Tutor''s chambers, unable to show his emotions to ordinary people, he now couldn''t help but crack a slight smile. "Mother, the tutor did indeed test us on our recent lessons this afternoon." Cheng Qian smiled at his sister, but quickly turned to Lower Concubine Liu and said, "I did reasonably well. The Emperor has rewarded me, Elder Brother, Second Brother, and Sixth Brother with a mutton hot pot for dinner." Lower Concubine Liu was overjoyed. "Cheng Qian has done well." Although she had heard her daughter''s thoughts and was not at all impressed by the reward from the ''Emperor who had almost gotten her buried alive'', she was very happy that her son had passed the test safely and avoided getting his palms beaten. "Quickly wash your hands, warm yourself up, ande see your sister. She has just nursed and is feeling sleepy." It was all thanks to this young girl, a reincarnated immortal, that her son had avoided the crisis. Cheng Qian didn''t need to be told and had already warmed his hands. He stood eagerly in front of the cradle, gazing at his sister''s adorable appearance. "Mother, if you or Sister everck anything, just send someone to let me know." "No matter what, you must not be shortchanged." It was all thanks to his sister that he knew the examination points today. He did not think his sister had any evil powers, or that she was a cmity. On the contrary, he felt she was a blessing from Heaven. His kind and fortunate sister had protected him. [Wow, did Brother gain the tutor''s favor?] [The Pce Tutor is very powerful, and he was even the Emperor Father''s teacher, it seems.] Cheng Qian silently agreed. Today, when Schr Lu returned from the Qian Qing Pce, he not only brought rewards and punishments, but his expression when looking at Cheng Qian also showed a degree of approval that was unusual. Normally, although Schr Lu was very attentive to all the princes, he still taught the older first three princes more. He was not good with words, and did not treat Cheng Qian specially. But today was different. After returning, Schr Lu looked at him several times. "Do not be arrogant or hasty. Cheng Qian, do not ck off in your studies, but..." Lower Concubine Liu couldn''t help but worry about what her daughter had said about her son''s fate. "But a tall tree in the forest will be blown down by the wind." Before he had even grown up, he would face envy and hatred, which was a cmity. Cheng Qian nodded in agreement. He knew. In this life, until the session to the throne was assured, he would remain cautious. "Rest assured, Mother. Today''s reward was not just for me..." But as he said this, he faltered in sudden rm. His mother now had such great wisdom. The tragic fate his sister had mentioned seemed to have been calcted step by step by his mother, first using his grandfather to test and warn the grandsons, and now reminding him not to reveal his abilities too openly. Could it be that his mother could also hear his sister''s thoughts? Cheng Qian couldn''t help but study his mother''s expression intently. Just as he was contemting this, he was interrupted. "Madam, the n Ministry has sent over the three wet nurses you selected this morning for your careful inspection." In an instant, a pce maid announced from outside the door. "Let them in." Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince both quicklyposed themselves. When they looked up again, their faces were perfectly calm, as if nothing had happened. * In the main hall of the Donghua Pce. Consort Min was about to close the door and secretly eat a chicken leg braised in onions that her personal pce maid had bought from the kitchen. But suddenly, there was a loud knocking on the door. "Mother, I''vee to see you!" "Open up! Mother, what are you doing? Locking the door in broad daylight!" Consort Min: "...!" She had sinned. Just when she had finally managed to sneak off and eat some meat, her son had interrupted her. Giving birth to children was like inviting debtors. Consort Min quickly finished the chicken leg in a few bites, wiped her oily mouth with a handkerchief, picked up her prayer beads, and then let her personal maid open the door. "Hmm? Mother, what''s that smell?" Sixth Prince Cheng Shan had barely entered when he sniffed the air. He was hungry. "Smells like chicken legs braised in onions?" Consort Min held her breath. Her son had the same love for food as she did, with a nose more keen than a dog''s. But he was guileless, spoiled by her and Consort Qi since childhood, unable to hide anything. "Nonsense! How could your mother secretly eat meat?" "That''s true, Mother, you chant scriptures and pray to Buddha, you don''t like meat. It was probably one of your attendant eunuchs sneaking food." Consort Min''s eye twitched as she looked at her seven-year-old son, whose chubby cheeks already showed signs of a thick neck. "Why aren''t you reviewing your lessons at the Qian Xi Pce? What are you doing here?" She and Consort Qi had agreed that on odd-numbered days, her son would dine with Consort Qi, and on even-numbered days, he would dine with her. Today was the third day of the month, and her son was not supposed to be here. Consort Min had been tempted by the beef pancakes served to Lower Concubine Liu at breakfast, and her craving had resurfaced, prompting her to lock the door and eat meat in the evening. "Don''t spend all dayining about headaches and eye strain from reading, only thinking about eating." "If your nose is so keen, if you can get a word of praise from the tutor for your lessons, Mother will prepare snacks for you every day!" Sixth Prince Cheng Shan''s eyes lit up, and he smiled mysteriously. "Mother, my essay earned praise from Father Emperor today, and a reward dish." Consort Min was stunned. "The sun has risen from the west?" Had the Emperor gone blind today? "Mother!" "Has your father lost his mind today? No, he''s in an exceptionally good mood?" "...Mother," Sixth Prince Cheng Shan pouted. Was he really that bad? "It was Fifth Brother who helped me review!" Consort Min was taken aback. "Fifth Prince?" Lower Concubine Liu''s son Cheng Qian? "Yes, Mother, you should be nicer to Fifth Brother''s mother from now on. Don''t bully him." "If it weren''t for Fifth Brother today, I would have been beaten on the palms like Third Brother and Fourth Brother!" Sixth Prince puffed out his chest. Consort Min immediately felt fear in retrospect. Their palms had been beaten too? She knew her own son''s abilities; in terms of lessons, he was probably only slightly better than the youngest Seventh Prince, who was only five years old. If it weren''t for Fifth Prince''s help, her son''s palms would most likely have been beaten to the point of resembling pig trotters today! Consort Min immediately became appreciative. "The tiger inkstone set I gave youst time, there''s another one. Pack it upter and deliver it to your Fifth Brother yourself." As she spoke, her face also showed joy. At first, she didn''t believe it, but now that she knew the reason, she felt the tion of her son being praised. Who wouldn''t want a son who excels in both literary and martial arts? "Later, I''ll also send a bolt of Sichuan silk to Lower Concubine Liu." "That''s appropriate!" Cheng Shan was also delighted, patting his chubby face. "Mother, I''ll have the reward dish sent here. Tonight, I''ll eat Father''s rewarded mutton hot pot, and you can have the cabbage." Consort Min: "...?" Damn it, raising a son is not as good as raising Lower Concubine Liu! In the Kunning Pce. The Empress was overjoyed by the reward dish and praised the Crown Prince as she stroked his arm, "You''ve lost weight from studying hard recently." "Your father has rewarded you with this dish, and Mother will also reward you with an embroidered lion head ornament." "By the way, is that hot pot just for you, or do your brothers also get one?" The Crown Prince immediately replied, "In addition to me, Second Brother, Fifth Brother, and Sixth Brother also received one." A sh of thought crossed the Empress''s gentle eyes. Fifth Prince had also received a reward? "Mother, Father likely rewarded them because of their young age." The Empress nodded in agreement. That was probably the reason. However, the fact that Noble Consort''s Third Prince had been beaten on the palms and stripped of the right to officiate at the Winter Sacrifice was an unexpected delight! She could eat an extra half-bowl of rice tonight! "As the eldest brother, you should also provide guidance to Fifth Prince and Sixth Prince in the future." "They are young, and your father pays close attention to their studies as well." The Empress suddenly discovered a new perspective. The younger Fifth Prince Cheng Qian and Sixth Prince Cheng Shan excelled in their studies, making the older Third Prince and Fourth Prince look even more useless! How could that arrogant Mr. Fucha dare to challenge her? The Third Prince born to Mr. Fucha was nothing but a worthless lump! * "Xiao Chuchu, Consort Min has sent you some Sichuan brocade and a bowl of bird''s nest soup." The gratitude from the neighboring room was quickly delivered to Xiao Chuchu. The eunuch Liu from the Imperial n Household lowered his head as he apanied the wet nurses. He could not help but be astonished once again. How did Xiao Chuchu suddenly gain such favor in the harem? Consort Min was showing concern. The Fifth Prince was here too! Eunuch Liu thought to himself, then respectfully paid his respects to Xiao Chuchu and the Fifth Prince. But as he was about to introduce the three wet nurses behind him, Xiao Chuchu and the Fifth Prince''s expressions changed. ["Oh no, Mother, Brother, the wet nurse with the mole at the corner of her eye must not be employed!"] ["She was nted here by the Noble Consort!"] Chapter 12 Chapter 12 The servant list sent from the Imperial Household Department in the morning was epted by Lower Concubine Liu, who selected three wet nurses who seemed most reliable. But Xiao Chuchu was whimpering restlessly in the bass. [Ooh, that one! The previous wet nurse had an incident, and among the second batch selected by my mother, one wet nurse was nted by Imperial Noble Fu Cha as a spy from the Top Three Banners with a clean family background!] She spotted the wet nurse on the far left among the three. That woman entered with her head lowered and eyes shifting furtively. Her unsettled demeanor was caught by Xiao Chuchu in the bass. [She has a problem! She will pass information about my mother and brother to the Imperial Noble!] [Later, the Imperial Noble framed my mother for plotting to harm the prince by secretly nting a cursed wooden doll of the Crown Prince under my mother''s bed!] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice startled Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince, making them turn sharply to scrutinize the three wet nurses before them with piercing gazes. What a vicious scheme by the Imperial Noble! They had just dismissed a treacherous wet nurse, and the Imperial Noble took advantage of the change to send in another one! [Mother, brother, we cannot hire her!] Xiao Chuchu thrashed in her swaddling, trying to turn her head away from the wet nurse on the left, expressing her dislike in this way. But she was too young, barely a month old, her neck too weak to turn, let alone roll over. She was like a clumsy little turtle, struggling in the swaddling, only able to let out two cries of distress. Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince found it both amusing and heartbreaking. Fifth Prince kindly spoke up for his sister, "Mother, I think that one..." Lower Concubine Liu gestured for her son to wait, then looked at the three wet nurses, who all appeared meek andpliant, as if seeing them equally. [Mother!] Xiao Chuchu was anxious. Lower Concubine Liu took the infant from the bass and patted her little arm soothingly. She gave a piercing nce at the wet nurse on the left. "The Princess is still young and her body has not fully developed. I wish to find someone attentive." The wet nurse on the left immediately stepped forward with a smile and spoke out, "In response to your words, mydy, I have raised three children of my own, all growing up safely." Lower Concubine Liu smiled slightly. "Excellent." The wet nurse happily looked up, but quickly froze. Lower Concubine Liu gently asked, "If you are attentive, then you must be sensitive to the Princess''s cries." "Why don''t you describe what you noticed when the Princess cried after you entered the hall, and how you would handle it." The wet nurse on the left turned pale. Clearly, she had been so focused on impressing Lower Concubine Liu that she had not noticed the baby''s movements in the swaddling! [Wow, my mother is so wise!] Xiao Chuchu grinned. Even Fifth Prince nodded in secret approval. The room fell utterly silent, a dropped pin would be heard. Lower Concubine Liu''s expression was stern. "Why don''t you answer? Describe the Princess''s cries one by one." "The Princess..." The wet nurse on the left had her back drenched in sweat. "The Princess seemed to cry once... no, twice?" Lower Concubine Liu squinted at the remaining two lowered heads. Another was also at a loss. Only one neat and well-featured wet nurse answered after considering, "After we entered the hall, the Princess let out three soft cries, but did not cry." The wet nurse on the left''s face changed drastically. "Mydy, I misspoke earlier! The Princess did not cry, she only called out twice!" Lower Concubine Liu gave her a cold look, as if unhearing. "Please escort these two out, Eunuch Liu." "I will only keep the one who is attentive to the little Princess." "Yes." Eunuch Liu obeyed, ring disdainfully at the blundering wet nurse. "Rest assured, mydy, I will thoroughly investigate this ipetent one and send her back to her hometown!" The problematic wet nurse became flustered and dejected but had no recourse, following the eunuch out with reluctant steps. Xiao Chuchu was so delighted that she giggled out bubbles. [Hooray, mother avoided another crisis!] [With mother here, I can lie back and rx! A child with a wise mother is truly blessed and joyful!] Lower Concubine Liu suppressed herughter, gazing at the flushed, bubble-blowing infant in her arms whose praise was as strange as it was endearing. Her heart felt so sweet, like tasting honey. Fifth Prince also looked at Lower Concubine Liu with an unusual respect. "Mother is wise." He had not realized that his mother was so discerning. Earlier, he had been prepared to heed his sister''s sentiment and reject the suspected wet nurse. But without proof and the woman havingmitted no fault, it would have been an unjust reprimand. His mother''s handling was far superior. She acted subtly, without revealing her intent to the true conspirators behind the wet nurse. For the first time, Fifth Prince felt that his previous belief that his mother was not as capable as his father might be mistaken. [Wow, this new wet nurse has a lovely fragrant soapwort scent, she seems very clean!] Xiao Chuchu squirmed, trying to get a better look at her new wet nurse. After all, she could not walk or talk yet, so she would rely heavily on her wet nurse and mother''s care. Likely spending much time with the wet nurse. Xiao Chuchu noticed that while the wet nurse had ordinary features, together they gave off an aura of dignity that put one at ease. "What is your name? Where are you from?" Lower Concubine Liu gestured for the wet nurse to be seated. "In response, mydy, this servant is Zhang Jia from Hangzhou. I came to the capital with my husband three years ago," Zhang Jia replied calmly. Lower Concubine Liu nodded in satisfaction, and Fifth Prince also regarded her approvingly. Zhang Jia had demonstrated her attentiveness earlier. But Xiao Chuchu blinked upon hearing her words. [Zhang Jia? From Hangzhou? Could her husband be one of my good-for-nothing father''s Imperial Guards?] Lower Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince were taken aback. Imperial Guards? [She will be the wife of a high-ranking officialter! Not long from now, there will be a pce coup, and her husband will rescue myte father the Emperor from the Qianqing Pce. He will be promoted and quickly be a Grand General guarding the borders!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes sparkled. This meant her wet nurse would be a heroic military wife in the future! A heroic military wife as her wet nurse! Fifth Prince could not help ncing at Lower Concubine Liu. Such a wet nurse should not be underestimated. If his mother could not hear his sister''s inner voice, how could he enlighten her? [Oh, but sadly he will die young during the coup when rescuing my useless father from the Qianqing Pce''s east gate. A falling beam struck his neck, leaving him with an insidious injury.] [He did not treat it properly and returned to duty.] [Later, after a great victory against the Jurchen forces, the old injury resurfaced, and he died on the journey back to report his sess at the border. What a shame for such a brave and skilled warrior to perish. If only he had lived longer...] [My brother waster sent to the battlefield by the new Emperor, perhaps he would not have died if he had this Grand General''s support...] Xiao Chuchu sighed softly, her eyelids growing heavy as she struggled before sumbing to sleep. [If only the Grand General had properly treated his injury, perhaps he could have avoided his demise...] [Hmm, when was the fire again...] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes brimmed with tired tears as she fought to remain awake for a moment. [Wait! I think it was the second night after the new wet nurse arrived!] Fifth Prince and Lower Concubine Liu jolted, looking up in rm. That would be tomorrow night! Chapter 13 Chapter 13 The evening meal had not yet been served, but Lower Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince did not urge the staff. At that moment, they were gazing intently at little Xiao Chuchu in the rocking crib, lost in thought as they listened to her. Xiao Chuchu was still recounting the plot of a novel. [This time, with the Earth dragon turnover, only the Qianqing Pce, Lanming Pce, and Yuxi Pce in the entire Imperial Pce copsed. Three dayster, during the sacrificial rites, Father Emperor made a big fuss and even issued a nationwide pardon to pray for blessings.] The Earth dragon turnover referred to an earthquake. [Hmm, Father Emperor was also slightly injured in this Earth dragon turnover.] [At that time, he was meditating in the Qianqing Pce, having been busy discussing the recent flooding disasters and military border affairs with his officials for many days, with no leisure time.] [That night, he finally had some time to rest and meditate.] [Who would have thought that in the side chamber of the Qianqing Pce, the earthquake caused a treasured shelf to topple over, and a blue porcin vase struck Father Emperor''s right leg, rendering him unable to walk and requiring the attendants to carry him out.] The Fifth Prince and Lower Concubine Liu were so engrossed in listening that they nearly forgot their present surroundings. Images seemed to appear before their eyes. Little Chuchu even knew what the Emperor was doing and thinking? If the Emperor learned of her existence, would he tolerate it? Would he tolerate hearing from little Chuchu the secrets of his movements and innermost thoughts? The supreme sovereign, whose dignity could not be vited bymoners! Lower Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince found the story fascinating yet worrying at the same time. [Father Emperor''s leg was injured this time, and I don''t know if it didn''t heal properly because he was busy with the sacrificial rites, but after returning from the winter solstice ceremonies, he started to fervently consume the elixirs sent by the Taoists.] Lower Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince involuntarily exchanged a nce, their eyes filled with shock. Previously, no officials dared dissuade the Emperor from his Taoist practices! And now he was bing even more obsessed? [Three yearster, the viins took advantage of the situation and poisoned the elixirs, which led to Father Emperor''s death...] The Fifth Prince abruptly raised his head and stared at his sister in disbelief. Father Emperor would pass away three years from now?! Who were the culprits? His eyes burned with fury. [Hmm... so sleepy... the elixirs already contained heavy metals...] Xiao Chuchu murmured incoherently, her words bing increasingly disjointed. She remembered all the plot details of the novel, but it seemed her infant brain had limited capacity, and only the most recent memories were crystal clear. The farther back the events, the more difficult it was for her to recall the details. For instance, regarding the future Emperor''s daily consumption of elixirs, she could not recall the specific day he was poisoned to death, who sent the poisoned elixir, or which particr elixir it wasced with. The more she tried to remember, the drowsier she became. [Hmm... Mother, Brother, be careful tomorrow night during the Earth dragon turnover, don''t wander around...] [And be kind to the new wet nurse, Zhang Jia, she''s a military wife...] Xiao Chuchu was soon constrained by her infant limitations, unable to resist the overwhelming sleepiness. Her small head tilted to the side as she drifted off to sleep. In her slumber, she gently furrowed her brow, her fair face flushed with a rosy tint. The Fifth Prince clenched his fists in frustration, his sister had fallen asleep before finishing. "Mother, did you... hear anything just now?" he asked in a hushed voice after sitting silently for half an hour, unable to contain himself any longer as he gazed at his sister''s sleeping face. Lower Concubine Liu gasped and quickly scanned their surroundings. She had just sent the pce maids and wet nurses away for a rest earlier. At present, only she and the Fifth Prince were in the room. Lower Concubine Liu finally met her son''s gaze and nodded lightly, "Cheng Qian, did you hear it too?" If her son could hear Chuchu''s revtions, it might be possible for him to avert the impending disaster, which would be a good thing. Cheng Qian nodded eagerly, his hands clenched tightly on his knees. Mother could hear it too! Indeed, he, Mother, and little sister shared a true blood connection. "Don''t worry, Mother, I''ll definitely find a way to help sister, you, and our paternal family avoid this cmity!" "But Mother, we can''t reveal what sister said about Father Emperor," Cheng Qian''s young face tensed. Lower Concubine Liu''s heart skipped a beat. Her son, though young, was on the same wavelength as her. While the Emperor might pass away three yearster ording to her daughter''s words, her immediate concern was Chuchu''s well-being. For Chuchu''s sake, she would not tantly inform the Emperor of her daughter''s ability to foresee the future. She did not know, nor dare gamble, whether the Emperor would tolerate Chuchu''s existence. The Emperor had more than one concubine. But Chuchu was her only daughter. Moreover, ording to her daughter''s revtions, the Emperor would depart before her! He might not even be able to protect Chuchu. When the new Emperor ascended the throne, if he knew of Chuchu''s ability to foresee the future, she would surely be confined for life. The fate of Cheng Qian and the entire Liu family would also be more tragic than Chuchu had foretold. For the sake of Chuchu, her son, and the entire Liu family, Lower Concubine Liu did not want the Emperor to know the slightest detail. Who knew if the Emperor would inform the future Crown Prince or the new Emperor? "Yes, Mother knows. Don''t worry, your Father Emperor rarely visits Consort Min''s pce." "She is a Buddhist, which conflicts with his Taoist beliefs. Naturally, he visits my residence even less." Lower Concubine Liu felt slightly reassured as she contemted this. "Even if your Father Emperor doese, Mother will not reveal even a hint about Chuchu." She had heard her daughter say that the Emperor would pass away in three years, and she wouldmit suicide to join him in the afterlife, while her son would be killed on the battlefield, leaving her orphaned and her parents deceased! What else could she possibly fear? No matter what else she heard, she would never show a trace of surprise or panic in front of the Emperor! The Fifth Prince nodded solemnly and stood up like a little adult, "Mother, I''ll be careful too." He was usually expressionless, so the Emperor would not suspect anything. "Mother, treat the wet nurse as usual, don''t show any special attention," the Fifth Prince pondered. "As for the Earth dragon turnover tomorrow night, Mother doesn''t need to worry. I''ll have someone keep watch. If any pce guards are indeed injured, I''ll arrange for them to rest and recover, and I''ll find a way to help them secretly." "As for Father Emperor''s injured leg... that seems unavoidable," the Fifth Prince gritted his teeth. "I''ve heard that when he''s meditating, even the officials are not allowed to disturb him." Even if he wanted to warn his father now, he wouldn''t be able to see him! "I can only try to persuade Father Emperor to consume fewer elixirster on." Lower Concubine Liu nodded helplessly. "Mother, I''ll take my leave now," the Fifth Prince nced at the darkening sky and stood up. Lower Concubine Liu personally escorted him to the door and reminded the young eunuch attendants, "It''s windy tonight, be careful to shield thentern mes, and watch your step." She watched until her son''s figure disappeared before returning to the room. After gazing at her daughter''s adorable sleeping face for a while, she instructed the pce maids, "Send a winter quilt to Wet Nurse Zhang Jia." Although her son had advised her not to treat the wet nurse exceptionally, just as her daughter had said, her husband wouldter be a general guarding the nation''s borders for the people. It was only right to care for the bereaved children of such selfless soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. Lower Concubine Liu had been educated from a young age by her mother in literature and etiquette, and she deeply respected these frontier soldiers. "Also, send more firewood to Wet Nurse Zhang Jia''s quarters," Lower Concubine Liu instructed. Zhang Jia, the newly arrived wet nurse, happened to be passing by the window with her small bundle of belongings when she heard Lower Concubine Liu''s kind voice, which warmed her heart. She had previously met the Empress and other noble consorts in the pce, but none had treated her with the same warmth as Lower Concubine Liu. Zhang Jia quickened her pace, eager to start caring for the little Princess. The next day at the rooster''s crow, the Fifth Prince left Consort Li''s Lishun Pce after a brief visit and headed southwest, not towards his Qianxi No.5 Residence. "Brother, this isn''t the way back to the Qianxi No.5 Residence?" the young eunuch attendant asked, puzzled. The Fifth Prince''s expression remained impassive, "I''m going to the South Imperial Garden to pick a few wintersweet branches for my sister to admire." The young eunuch hurriedly agreed. The South Imperial Garden was very close to the Qianqing Pce. The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, strolled through the Imperial Garden for a while. Suddenly, the ground beneath the nearby rockery began to violently shake, sending boulders rolling down! "Fifth Prince, run quickly!" came the shouts. As expected, the Earth dragon turnover had urred! His sister''s words hade true again. The Fifth Prince pursed his lips and hesitated for a moment before gathering his robes and dashing towards the nearby Qianqing Pce. ording to his sister, Father Emperor would consume poisoned elixirs and pass away three yearster, which might be rted to the injury he sustained during this Earth dragon turnover. The Fifth Prince''s heart was still burning with intense fire. He still wanted to stop it! Fifth Prince Cheng Qian left his personal attendant behind and rushed into the Qianqing Pce. He saw that the gate lintel had already broken and was crushing three eunuchs and guards underneath! "Your Majesty¡ªwhere are you!" The head eunuch Wei Zheng was frantically searching for him in the inner court. "Father!" Cheng Qian''s heart trembled, and he rushed towards the side chamber. The chamber was now inplete disarray. Treasure cabs, beams, pirs... everything was scattered on the ground. Cheng Qian''s breathing became rapid. He was still toote! "Fifth Prince?" "Lord Wei, Father is here!" Following his sister Xiao Chuchu''s guidance, Cheng Qian quickly found a yellow robe under a treasure cab. Wei Zheng was greatly rmed, "Your Majesty!" Xiao Yunzhou opened his eyes amidst excruciating pain, only to see a small figure rushing to his side, disregarding his own life and death. It was someone even braver than the eunuch Wei Zheng attending him, fearlessly attempting an Earth dragon turnover to lift the treasure cab off the Emperor''s leg, heedless of his own safety. This child was only as tall as Wei Zheng''s waist, but he calmly gave orders despite the tension. "Someone, carry Father out! Be gentle, watch Father''s right leg." Xiao Yunzhou was moved, and was soon carried on a young attendant''s back. "Go through the west gate of Qianqing Pce! Quick!" Fifth Prince followed his sister''s words. Indeed, as soon as the attendant carrying Emperor Xiao Yunzhou exited through the west gate, the beam at the east gate came crashing down, nearly crushing a young eunuch alive! The Emperor''s eyelids twitched heavily as hey on the attendant''s back. "Thanks to the Fifth Prince''s warning," the young attendant with thick brows and big eyes gratefully thanked Cheng Qian. * [Your legitimate elder brother has gained the affection of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou (High-Rank)...] Xiao Chuchu saw this system message the next day when she woke up for her milk. Chapter 14 Chapter 14 As Lower Concubine Liu slept, the earth dragon''s tossing had no impact on the infant Xiao Chuchu''s slumber. When she awoke the next day, she heard Qiu Li speaking softly with her mother Zhang Jia, "Fortunately, we have nothing of great value here. Cheng Qian broke a bowl from the previous dynasty on that side, and it troubled her terribly..." Cheng Qian indulged a little more than Lower Concubine Liu. But while Cheng Qian''s maternal family was in business, they were generous, and the Inner Pce reciprocated by giving her many nice things. Lower Concubine Liu frowned with some concern, "Any news from the Qianxi No.5 Residence? What about outside the pce?" "This servant sent someone to the Qianxi No.5 Residence early on, and it was calm on the princes'' side, with just a few eunuchs clearing broken tiles." "But I''m not sure about outside the pce." Lower Concubine Liu rxed slightly, ncing at the infant girl Zhang Jia was holding. Her heart skipped a beat. She didn''t know the condition of Zhang Jia''s husband - whether his injury was serious or not. However, her father knew a skilled bonesetter outside the pce. If they couldn''t summon the imperial physicians, she could have her father seek his help. "Any news about the Emperor?" Lower Concubine Liu asked Qiu Li. But as she spoke, footsteps approached from outside. "Great news, Lower Concubine Liu!" came a call from beyond the door. It was none other than Wei Zheng, the most prominent senior eunuch in the Emperor''s service. Before Lower Concubine Liu could react in surprise, he had already entered, beaming as he bowed to her. "The Emperor has summoned Lower Concubine Liu to bring the young princess to dine at the Chonghua Pce at noon." Lower Concubine Liu was taken aback. Wei Zheng squinted with a smile, "Lower Concubine Liu, prepare early, but there''s no need to be nervous." "Last night, as the earth dragon stirred, the Fifth Prince happened to rush into the Qianqing Pce and saved the Emperor." Wei Zheng even refused the reward money Qiu Li tried to offer him. "With the Fifth Prince''s actions, Lower Concubine Liu will surely have great fortune hereafter." Xiao Chuchu was astonished to hear this and rolled over in Zhang Jia''s arms, unable to resist giving her brother a thumbs up. [Wow Mother, let''s go give Brother a call!] At the Chonghua Pce... The imperial physician removed the acupuncture needles from Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s right foot after washing his hands. "Your Majesty need only rest for two more days, and there will be no further issues." "Fortunately, thepression was brief this time. Your Majesty escaped in time; otherwise, it could have affected your tendons and bones, making recovery more difficult." Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but feel relieved. He recalled the previous night, immediately locating his Fifth Prince Cheng Qian amidst the rubble. Had it not been for the child''s alertness, he estimated his leg would have been in serious trouble. When escaping from the Qianqing Pce, the child''s warning had also prevented him and his guards from nearly being struck by falling beams again. In terms of filial piety, courage, and intelligence, Cheng Qian was unquestionablymendablest night. "Reward the Head Guard Pang Rusong with the hereditary title of Thousand Households Captain." Xiao Yunzhou decided as he thought about it. As for the Fifth Prince, he couldn''t openly reward him. Butst night, with his injured leg making it difficult to sleep, he had contemted the matter all night in bed. The Fifth Prince, raised by Consort Li, was young but excelled in his studies and was filial to the Emperor¡ªhis courage was admirable. In contrast, Consort Li''s own Fourth Prince was unfit for significant responsibilities. As the elder brother, hecked any notable qualities and couldn''t even focus on his studies. Compared side by side, the difference between the brothers was stark. Evidently, the Fifth Prince''s character and intelligence had nothing to do with Consort Li but were inherited from his birth mother, Lower Concubine Liu. Xiao Yunzhou then thought of the rtively ordinary Lower Concubine Liu, whom he hadn''t seen in a long time. Where did this Lower Concubine Liu''s fortunee from? He had only been with her a few times. Yet, she not only bore him a prince but also had a princess this year. Reclining on the dragon bed with his eyes closed, Xiao Yunzhou pondered whether to promote Lower Concubine Liu''s father from his current fifth-rank position. "Your Majesty, Lower Concubine Liu and the Third Princess have arrived." Xiao Yunzhou motioned for them to enter. Wei Zheng promptly ced a cushion behind the Emperor. In recent years, Xiao Yunzhou had increasingly taken to meditation and cultivation. Apart from the Empress, who was the daughter of the former Chancellor Xu and his childhood sweetheart the Noble Consort, Xiao Yunzhou hadn''t summoned any other consorts from the harem in a long time. But as Xiao Yunzhou looked up, he saw the usually low-profile Lower Concubine Liu dressed in a brilliant red satin gown today, making her formerly mild and ordinary features appear radiant and alluring, like a spring pool. Moreover, there was a faint, lingering fragrance wafting towards him. As he took a whiff, he felt as though the pain in his left foot had somehow subsidedpared to before. Xiao Yunzhou was astonished. But soon, as Lower Concubine Liu epted the yellow satin bundle containing the little princess from Zhang Jia while draped in a silver ermine cloak, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was even more stunned into silence. [Ah, so this is my imperial father?] Xiao Yunzhou was so startled that he nearly dropped the tea Wei Zheng handed him! He couldn''t help but gaze at the yellow satin bundle in Lower Concubine Liu''s arms. [My handsome brother must have inherited my imperial father''s looks.] [Oh my goodness, I had assumed the Emperor would be an older, greasy, pot-bellied middle-aged man. I never expected this imperial father to be so handsome, looking only around twenty years old.] Xiao Yunzhou was so amazed that he almostughed out loud. He had ascended the throne at fifteen and had never heard anyone praise his looks so directly before. During the previous dynasty, none of the officials or haremdies would have dared to call the Emperor handsome to his face. But who didn''t enjoy ttery! "Ahem, have a seat." After all, Xiao Yunzhou was the Emperor and had seen many grand asions, so he quickly regained hisposure. The attending eunuchs hurriedly brought a round stool and ced it five steps from Xiao Yunzhou''s couch. Xiao Yunzhou frowned, "Closer." The eunuchs were surprised but didn''t dare utter a word as they moved the stool two steps forward. Xiao Yunzhou frowned again. Even the senior eunuch Wei Zheng behind him was astonished now. Wei Zheng nced at Lower Concubine Liu, his expression bing exceedingly respectful. It seemed this cold pce maid was about to be ignited! "ce it right before the Emperor. After the third month, the Emperor hasn''t even seen the little princess yet." Wei Zheng spoke up on the Emperor''s behalf. Lower Concubine Liu hadn''t expected that after telling her son Cheng Qian just the previous day that the Emperor would not get close to her, today she would be seated so near him! But she wasn''t intimidated, as her entire family faced an uncertain future anyway. What was there to fear about the Emperor before her, who would die even sooner than her family? "Thank you, Lord Wei." Lower Concubine Liu calmly expressed her gratitude and sat down unhesitatingly at the spot almost beside Xiao Yunzhou''s bedside. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but study her closely. She was indeed neither servile nor arrogant. Previously, he had never noticed that despite her ordinary background, with an unremarkable father and brother, she was quite bold. No wonder Cheng Qian had such an admirable character - it was inherited from her. Xiao Yunzhou gained a new appreciation for Lower Concubine Liu. But soon, his attention shifted to the little princess in her arms. Chuchu was the name he had personally bestowed upon the little princess, albeit casually at the time without much thought. But now, as he observed Chuchu nestled in the yellow satin, her delicate face fair as snow, her little lips rosy and moist, and her most captivating feature - a pair of clear, soulful eyes that were adorably lively, he realized the name suited her perfectly. When she grew up, she would undoubtedly be a charming beauty. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t pay much attention to the children in the harem, as the first five children born to him after his ession at fifteen had all perished. He had invested considerable effort in his eldest son, the Crown Prince, after he came of age. But as more children were born and his position became more secure, he grew increasingly indifferent. Yet at this moment, he couldn''t resist the urge to hold the little princess. However, he soon decided against it. [s, how is my imperial father injured? Does it hurt?] Xiao Yunzhou''s heart softened. He had ordered Wei Zheng to summon the mother and daughter for an audience. Wei Zheng reported that upon reaching the doorway, he overheard Lower Concubine Liu expressing concern for the Emperor''s well-being. Her status was low, and he rarely thought of her. Yet she was a kind soul, always mindful of him, the Emperor. Her newborn princess, too, was wholeheartedly devoted to her imperial father. Xiao Yunzhou''s opinion of Lower Concubine Liu and her family changed entirely! Like mother, like child - no wonder the Fifth Prince was so filial. The answer was clear - it was all due to Lower Concubine Liu''s excellent parenting. While Lower Concubine Liu''s father and brother were not particrly sessful officials, perhaps a bit dull, this family seemed to be loyal and pure, devoted to filial piety. Without changing his expression, Xiao Yunzhou pondered whether to promote Lower Concubine Liu''s father from his current fifth-rank position. This pure and innocent person, with a kind heart and no deception, would be more suited to working in the Ministry of Rites, or serving as a remonstrating imperial censor! Xiao Chuchu did not realize that she had merely thought a few things, and the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou had already decided to promote the Liu family. Now, as she saw Xiao Yunzhou attempting to embrace her, her mind was filled with more scattered thoughts. [Oh, Father Emperor, your injury must be really painful. I wish I could blow on it to soothe the pain.] Xiao Yunzhou suppressed augh. This was a silly child; there were imperial physicians present. But before he could finishughing, the arm he had extended froze in mid-air. [If only your foot injury didn''t hurt, then you wouldn''t start frantically consuming tonics for longevity.] [Then, the Noble Consort would not have poisoned the tonics, leading to your death three yearster.] Xiao Yunzhou''s face instantly changed color! [After your death, your closest childhood friends, the Noble Consort and the Humble Empress, who you loved like a husband loving his wife for a hundred days, none of them wouldmit suicide to apany you in the afterlife.] [Instead, they would order my mother, an uncherished concubine, tomit suicide for your burial...] [The new Emperor would kill my elder brother Cheng Qian, who was the only prince diligently working for the people''s benefit throughout the court!] [That''s not all, after ascending the throne, the new Emperor would recklessly execute virtuous officials and massacre a hundred thousand soldiers!] [The Xiao Dynasty would notst even two years before being overthrown!] [We would be captured and imprisoned in the pce, as the dynasty changed hands!] [Your tomb would even be desecrated, your body exposed to the wilderness, while all the burial treasures were looted!] Xiao Yunzhou''s handsome face waspletely darkened! Chapter 15 Chapter 15 Inside the bedchambers of the Chonghua Pce, not a word was spoken. But the chest of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou heaved up and down. His expression shifted from astonishment to cold severity. Wei Zheng, who had been attending him, sensed something amiss and dared not move. [Father Emperor, you cannot continue to pursue the path of immortality, for it will only lead to your demise.] [Your most trusted Consort, the future Empress of the new dynasty, is the Yuan King''s beloved white moonlight!] "Bang¡ª¡ª" The teacup in Xiao Yunzhou''s hand shattered as he flung it away! Xiao Chuchu was startled, her little hands trembling in fright. Lower Concubine Liu hurriedly lowered her head, tightly embracing her daughter. She dared not show any hint that she had heard her daughter''s thoughts. Previously, she had discussed this with her son, and she was prepared. At this moment, she maintained aposed expression, as if she had heard nothing, merely being frightened by the Emperor''s smashing of the cup. After throwing the cup, Xiao Yunzhou''s first reaction was to scrutinize Lower Concubine Liu''s expression. Finding nothing amiss, he narrowed his eyes and scanned the pce attendants and eunuchs. Seeing them trembling in fear, with bewildered looks on their faces, unaware of why he had suddenly erupted in anger, Xiao Yunzhou breathed a sigh of relief. The ugly events of him being poisoned, his grave being desecrated, and the downfall of his dynasty, even if they were false, could not be heard by others! Otherwise, how could the Imperial family maintain its dignity? How could he, the Emperor, maintain his dignity! [Oh, why did Father Emperor suddenly be angry? Was the tea too hot...] "Wei Zheng, the tea was scorching hot, how could I swallow it!" Xiao Yunzhou shouted. Wei Zheng was taken aback, for the tea did not seem hot at all. But he was not foolish and quickly prostrated himself, "Your Majesty, please forgive this servant''s foolishness!" The other eunuchs and Lower Concubine Liu breathed a sigh of relief. Xiao Yunzhou nodded inwardly, looking towards Wei Zheng, "What are you waiting for? Serve the food!" He took a deep breath and then looked at the little princess in the cradle with her ck eyes wide open, aplex expression on his face. What happened next? Earlier, he had been too enraged and had impulsively smashed the cup, interrupting the little one''s words. What happened after that? Was there not a single person from the Xiao dynasty who rose up to overthrow the Yuan King and restore their dynasty? Xiao Yunzhou gazed at his daughter with urgency. But Xiao Chuchu only blew a bubble, and what she thought made his hands tremble with anger. [The Consort had once saved the life of the Yuan Khan in Liang Province... Later, the Yuan cavalry charged into the pce, nearly killing the new Emperor, the Consort''s son. The Consort pleaded in anguish, submitting to this change of dynasty.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets. The new Emperor was the son of the Consort and his third prince!? The one who could not even write better than his younger brother! He had never been interested in books, only skilled in horseback riding, how could he understand governance! No wonder within two years, he had ughtered hundreds of officials and led to the downfall of the Xiao dynasty! He must have been blinded by something to have enthroned this third prince as his sessor! Xiao Yunzhou did not know why he would make such a foolish decision three yearster. [The new Yuan King, believing the Consort had been forced to submit to him, cherished her deeply and disregarded all opposition, enthroning her as the Empress.] [But he did not know that the Consort only loved power.] [At the time, to secure the throne for her son, she did not hesitate to poison and kill Father Emperor.] [After bing the Empress of the new dynasty, to cajole the Yuan King into allowing her to participate in governance, she lured three princes of the Xiao dynasty, whomanded powerful armies, into the pce and had them assassinated.] [She also revealed to the Yuan King the deployment maps of the Xiao armies.] [After the capital fell, Nanjing, Shu City, and other territories quickly surrendered as well.] [From then on, the Xiao Imperial n, numbering over ten thousand, was entirely ughtered.] [The Consort imed she had a nightmare about Father Emperor, enraging the Yuan King, who then sent men to desecrate his grave and flog his remains.] Xiao Yunzhou''s rage burned within him. But this time, he had nothing to throw. Two years ago, he had taken a liking to meditation and seeking longevity. In his youth, he had witnessed thete Emperor suffering from illness, writhing in agony, as the imperial physicians'' acupuncture and medications only seemed to increase his suffering. Thus, after ascending the throne, he did not trust the imperial physicians and preferred to consult with Taoist masters on cultivating the body. Previously, he had instructed them to find ancient forms and concoct elixirs to nourish his body and prolong his life. The words of the little princess were horrifying, and anyone else might not have believed them. But Xiao Yunzhou found himself somewhat convinced. To aid the recovery of his injured leg and prevent any lingering ailments, he had just dismissed the imperial physicians and ordered the eunuchs to seek an elixir from a Taoist master. Did this not align with what the little princess had said? [Hmm, if Father Emperor does not consume the Taoist Master Wang''s elixir this time, perhaps he can avoid all of this.] [The new Emperor is unworthy, so Father Emperor must take action!] His daughter was loyal to him. But Taoist Master Wang? Xiao Yunzhou raised his eyebrows, unable to suppress a fond nce at the little princess in Lower Concubine Liu''s arms, his expression perplexed. He had no Taoist Master Wang here. The Taoist masters who usually guided his meditation and those responsible for concocting elixirs did not have the surname Wang. But as he was thinking this, someone announced from outside, "Your Majesty, Lord Chen, the Left Censor, requests an audience." Xiao Yunzhou frowned. Lord Chen''s wife was the sister of the Consort. After hearing the Consort''s misdeeds, thest person he wanted to see was someone associated with her! Wei Zheng hurriedly reported, "Your Majesty, Lord Chen says that when he was serving in Shu Province, he met a renowned Taoist adept, most skilled in elixir concoction. Now in his sixties, he is still hale and hearty." "Lord Chen has heard that Your Majesty was injuredst night and wishes to rmend this Taoist adept to you." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyelids twitched, "What is this Taoist adept''s name and where is he from?" Soon, Wei Zheng inquired and returned with the information. "Your Majesty, this Taoist adept is named Wang Fangming, from Liang Province." [Ah, it''s him!] Xiao Yunzhou''s heart trembled. Just as he mentioned a Taoist Master Wang, one had indeed arrived! The little princess''s words were not a heavenly omen, what else could they be? It seemed they were all true. His death was so tragic. He would be merely thirty-four years old three years from now! [The Consort feared that once the truth was revealed, people would connect Taoist Master Wang to her, so she imed to the public that Father Emperor had died from excessive indulgence.] "Outrageous!" Xiao Yunzhou, half sitting on the bed, d in his yellow robe, could not help but curse loudly upon hearing this. Excessive indulgence referred to a man dying during vigorous sexual activities. Not only did the Consort poison him, but she also tarnished his reputation after his death, iming he died in the arms of a woman! "This is a tant defamation of the highest order! How could such a thing be possible!" Xiao Yunzhou was enraged. Lower Concubine Liu nearly burst intoughter and hurriedly lowered her head to conceal her expression, feigning disinterest in the matter of the Taoist adept. "Send someone to Liang Province to arrest this Wang Fangming and bring him to the capital!" "I want to question him personally about this elixir that has kept him so hale and hearty!" Xiao Yunzhou raged. Lord Chen, the Left Censor, who was waiting outside, had expected to be rewarded by the Emperor for rmending the elixir. But instead, he received the Emperor''s wrath. "As the esteemed Left Censor, instead of monitoring officials and caring for the people, you are more concerned with Taoist adepts and elixirs!" "By my decree, from this day forth, the Left Censor shall be sent to the Taoist monastery to refine elixirs!" Lord Chen, standing outside, copsed to his knees, his face drained of color as he trembled, "Your Majesty, I am wronged... Your Majesty..." [Oh, Father Emperor is so wise!] [Well done!] After venting his anger, Xiao Yunzhou felt refreshed upon hearing his daughter''s praise. "Bring the little princess to me." He stretched out his arms affectionately and took the soft, plump infant from Lower Concubine Liu''s embrace. As he did so, he caught a whiff of the faint fragrance emanating from his daughter. The soothing floral scent that had alleviated his pain earlier hade from his daughter. "Hahaha, you are indeed my beloved daughter." Lower Concubine Liu struggled to suppress an eye roll. However, Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed. Lowering his gaze, he saw Chuchu''s delicate features and broad forehead. She was a child blessed with good fortune. This was likely due to his previous meditation and offerings, reaching the heavens and moving the deities, who had granted him this precious daughter to warn him. What Taoist adept couldpare to his beloved daughter? She must be a reincarnated celestial being! "By my decree, the third princess shall be granted the title of Princess Gulun." "Lower Concubine Liu shall be elevated to Concubine Liu." Chapter 16 Chapter 16 This unexpected award came suddenly. But Lower Concubine Liu knew exactly why it was given. Lower Concubine Liu took a deep breath, looking at the young girl that Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was holding possessively in his arms. Hasn''t the Emperor had enough of holding her? She wanted to hug her daughter too. The eunuch Wei Zheng beside them couldn''t help but cough, reminding her to kneel and thank the Emperor for his grace. But before Lower Concubine Liu could kneel, Xiao Yunzhou made a gesture as if to assist her up. "No need for formalities." He looked at the stunned Lower Concubine Liu, or should she now be called Concubine Liu, with a smile in his eyes. "These past few years, I have neglected you. You have given me two wonderful children." As Xiao Yunzhou looked at Lower Concubine Liu now, he found her more and more appealing. In fact, after his two or three years of Taoist cultivation, he had not been too interested in visiting the harem this year. But the women of the harem woulde to him, bringing him soup or handmade handkerchiefs and pouches, or saying that a prince or princess was ill, or that they themselves were unwell, asking him to visit them. Lower Concubine Liu, however, had never done such things. Xiao Yunzhou had not noticed it before, but after hearing the good deeds of the Imperial Noble, he felt a sense of wariness that the concubines might try to harm him. Like the Imperial Noble, the more frequently they brought him soup, the more likely they were trying to harm him. Lower Concubine Liu paid him no heed and showed no eagerness to please him, which made him feel exceptionally at ease. Xiao Yunzhou nced at Lower Concubine Liu, who showed no great delight on her face and did not even kneel, disying a refreshing sense of honesty andck of desire for status. He felt an immediate sense of admiration for her. "Concubine Liu, do you have a diminutive name?" A woman''s diminutive name is not to be revealed to outsiders. In the inner chambers, only her parents and close rtives could address her by it. Xiao Yunzhou had never asked before. He might not have remembered the names and backgrounds of even the schrs and officials from the previous dynasty, let alone the women of the harem. But today, Concubine Liu was different from the ordinary harem women in his heart. "This humble servant''s diminutive name is Chaniang." "Then I shall call you Ah Chang from now on, is that eptable?" Concubine Liu, now Liu Chaniang, felt a twinge in her eyes. Chu Chu was held in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, eating the metaphorical melon and giggling heartily, looking at her mother''s seemingly shy lowered head one moment, and the handsome face of her Imperial Father Xiao Yunzhou the next. "Your Majesty, the Imperial Noble Consort requests an audience." "Hmph!" Xiao Yunzhou''s good mood was instantly ruined. Liu Chaniang immediately snatched her daughter from his arms, "This humble servant begs to take her leave." Xiao Yunzhou red, never having encountered a woman so bold as to defy him in this way before. But little did he know that Liu Chaniang had already heard her daughter''s thoughts a few days ago, and hade to see him as a ''husband'' destined for an early demise. When he died, he would just be a clod of dirt. She was no longer afraid of him at all. Xiao Yunzhou was startled by her audacity, but far from being angered, he even found it somewhat appealing. Especially with the woman standing outside, who appeared gentle towards him on the surface but harbored a heart as venomous as a scorpion''s, Xiao Yunzhou nodded immediately. "Ah Chang, take the princess and go rest in the side pce first." "Wei Zheng, attend to the mother and princess." Wei Zheng respectfully acknowledged the order, his eyes full of surprise. Concubine Liu has truly taken flight! But at this moment, Liu Chaniang held her daughter in her arms, her face devoid of any joyful expression. [Woo, Mother, let me see what the heroine White Moonlight Imperial Noble Consort looks like in this book!] [She was the empress of two dynasties, after all.] Chu Chu was brimming with excitement, straining to turn her head, but she only caught a glimpse of the Imperial Noble Consort''s - the heroine of the book - gorgeous pearl-colored robe hem and the jade-iid golden butterfly hairpin on her head before her mother carried her away. Once they reached the side pce, Liu Chaniang couldn''t help but tap her daughter''s nose yfully. "Chu Chu, be a good girl and take a nap, alright?" She couldn''t let her daughter be fixated on the vicious Imperial Noble Consort just yet. But not long after, as she followed Wei Zheng through a white tiger screen and entered the study of the side pce, she heard a loud crash from the Emperor''s bedchambers in Chonghua Pce, followed by Xiao Yunzhou''s thunderous voice ringing out in rage. "Imperial Noble Consort! The harem is not to meddle in governance. How dare you have the audacity to plead for Minister Chen!" "Do you think he was wrongly punished for the elixir incident? Do you think I was mistaken in punishing him and have wronged him!?" Chu Chu was so excited that she lost all sleepiness. [The heroine was actually scolded! How melodramatic!] [Ah, how I wish I could have witnessed this scene in person! Such a prime melon-eating moment!] Melon? Liu Chaniang looked down at her daughter, who was still young yet straining to look over her shoulder, and couldn''t help but smile. [The White Moonlight heroine who was once the empress of two dynasties, and now I hear her being scolded like a dog!] [If she bes the Queen of the Crown Prince in the future, I bet my Imperial Father will be personally whipped by her to vent her anger!] Chu Chu was thoroughly enjoying the metaphorical melon, even spending 2 system points to watch Xiao Yunzhou''s outburst in real-time. This was one of the system''s functions - using points to view any character''s live video feed. It was like watching a live stream. This function was extremely powerful, but with one limitation: the target being watched had to be someone Chu Chu had already encountered. Right now, she could watch Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. He was seen wearing a dragon robe embroidered with gold thread, ring down at the woman kneeling before him - the beautiful Imperial Noble Consort Fu Cha. Her delicate face was streaked with tears, and she was almost prostrate at Xiao Yunzhou''s feet. "Cousin, how could I ever think you were wrong? I only came to see you after hearing you had angrily punished Minister Chen because you were injuredst night, and I didn''t want you to further harm your health in your rage." "I was just worried about you, Cousin." What a perfect embodiment of the pure lotus flower. Chu Chu shook her head in amusement. But in the system''s live video feed, she humorously noticed that from Xiao Yunzhou''s overhead view on the imperial couch, he could see the resentment and humiliation in the Imperial Noble Consort''s eyes that she was trying to conceal. It was as if a student''s small restless movements could never escape a teacher''s casual sweeping nce from the lectern. "You truly have a serpent''s tongue, Imperial Noble Consort. What a pity you did not be a court actress!" Xiao Yunzhou looked at her with contempt from the dragon couch. Reflecting on the past, he had been deceived by his cousin''s affectionate and gentle words, truly believing that she had his best interests at heart. Little did he know that it was all an act. Before, he trusted her, and had no suspicions about the Fu Cha n as long as there were no conflicts of interest. She never showed her hand. But today, the resentment, annoyance, and restraint in the Imperial Noble Consort''s eyes, though only momentary before she suppressed it, was clear as day to him! She was indeed not single-minded! And she indeed did not have his best interests as her cousin at heart! Otherwise, why did the Imperial Noble Consort not inquire about the results of the physician''s examination of his injured leg, but only cared about her brother-inw, the Taoist priest, being punished? Just as his daughter had said, she was an ambitious woman. She had hidden it so well that now, when he saw her tear-stained face and heard her profess her love for him, he found it false and nauseating. "Guards, escort the Imperial Noble Consort back." "Since the Imperial Noble Consort is so concerned about my well-being, she can devote herself to Taoist cultivation on my behalf from this day forth." The Imperial Noble Consort looked up in disbelief, her face still a pitiful, tear-streaked vision of beauty framed by her striking features. "Cousin... are you angry with me? For what reason?" "No... no, Cousin..." "Imperial Noble Consort," Xiao Yunzhou opened his eyes, concealing his disappointment and shock behind an impassive expression. "Since Minister Chen praised the efficacy of that elixir so highly, you can try it on my behalf instead." The Imperial Noble Consort Fu Cha suddenly copsed to the ground. How could this be happening? It was impossible! He couldn''t have known! Just yesterday, when the earth dragon shifted, she had momentarily harbored wicked thoughts... if her third prince could not prevail over the crown prince in the future, and her cousin insisted on establishing the crown prince as heir, she would have someonece the Emperor''s elixir with poison. He frequently consumed elixirs, and no one would suspect her or her third prince. Even if it was discovered, only the Taoist priest would be executed, not her. But how could this be... she hadn''t done anything yet, but her cousin was already acting as if he knew! "What are you waiting for? Take the Imperial Noble Consort to the Pce Taoist Temple!" Xiao Yunzhou roared furiously. He had ruled for ten years and governed directly for six. The Imperial Noble Consort''s panic upon hearing him mention elixirs revealed everything. His little princess''s insights were indeed true! The Imperial Noble Consort Fu Cha suddenly copsed to the ground in a faint. "Go and invite Concubine Liu and the little Imperial Consort back." "No, help me over there instead." [Hmm, it seems the Emperor has be smarter.] After watching the second half of the livestream, Chu Chu closed the system, feeling a bit surprised. [Could this be the butterfly effect of my rebirth?] Lower Concubine Liu''s heart was pounding with excitement. Her little Imperial Consort has been reborn? No wonder she knows so much, the little Imperial Consort has already experienced all of this before? Chu Chu misspoke, saying "rebirth" instead of "transmigration into a book." But she didn''t notice herself, and soon smiled at her Imperial Mother who was staring at her. [By the way, the Emperor''s face is quite handsome.] [He cultivated for three years and rarely set foot in the harem. This year, he has been even more resolute, not even visiting the Noble Consort or the Empress, only going to sit and not engage in activities. Before he was poisoned, his health was always good. He seems skilled in staking techniques, after all, he had been on the battlefield before and could draw a bow with a force of ten stones.] [If the Emperor maintains his masculine virtue in the future, Imperial Mother, would you like to give it a try?] [Hehehe, it would be like a male escort at a nightclub...] What try... what escort... Lower Concubine Liu was shaken by her daughter''s thoughts. Soon after, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was helped into the side hall by eunuchs and ordered them to set up a dining table. "Chaniang, if you want anything, just tell them." Lower Concubine Liu was still unsettled by her daughter''s gaze, but Chu Chu had already begun unconsciously drooling. [Woof, I want hot pot! Take the meat from the back of the neck and brain of amb, the tenderest of the tender, three parts fat and seven parts lean, just the right bnce of fat and lean. Slice it thinly into pieces and put it in a pot of fragrant red oil, boil it briefly, then scoop it out once cooked and roll it in a blend of chopped scallions, garlic, and crushed peanuts in hot oil...] Chu Chu slurped, swallowing some saliva. [And also a te of crispy duck intestines, just nched...] Xiao Yunzhou listened and, despite being the Emperor, couldn''t help but swallow some saliva along with her. Chapter 17 Chapter 17 [To freeze soft tofu, forming small air pockets on the surface. Then ce it into the boiling hot pot, letting it roll for a few moments before scooping it out.] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth watered just thinking about it. [Give it a swirl in hot oil to coat it with green scallions, adding fragrance. With each bite, hot and spicy broth sshes out from the air pockets...] [At this time, gathered around the warm brazier, take a sip of the sweet and sour plum soup...] Xiao Chuchu was truly craving it now. Hearing the thriftyte Emperor Father say that her mother could order whatever she wanted, she couldn''t help but let her mind wander. This was not her fault. She was not a real infant, having only been breastfed for two days before craving bold vors again. Especially with the freezing cold outside, it was perfect weather for a steaming hot pot. [Next, take a crisp little cabbage, wash it clean, tear it into pieces, separating the leaves from the stems, and put them into the pot separately, cooking untilpletely translucent and soft and sweet.] Shh-haa shh-haa. Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but drool. Even Liu Chaniang, who was holding her, felt tempted. It seemed that this hot pot was different from the warm pot they usually had. She was quite eager to try it, but couldn''t order dishes based on her daughter''s thoughts, as that would reveal to the Emperor that she could hear her daughter''s thoughts. Liu Chaniang could only endure, thinking that when they returned to her little courtyard, she would secretly have the pce maids prepare a small warm pot ording to her daughter''s description. As she was suppressing this thought, a loud rumbling came from the side pce. Liu Chaniang looked up to see Xiao Yunzhou''s ears turning slightly red. He was hungry! Xiao Yunzhou, the supreme ruler above all others. upying the throne of the emperor, he normally ate refined and precious delicacies on a daily basis. But now, after hearing his young daughter''s description of hot pot, the more he listened, the hungrier he became. As an emperor, he could eat whatever he desired, so there was no need to conceal it! Observing that Liu Chen''s expression remained unchanged,pletely unmoved by their daughter''s thoughts, he knew that she most likely could not hear them, and only he, as the father emperor, could hear the celestial princess reborn''s thoughts! The hot pot she described must be something from the celestial realm. "Ahem." "Wei Zheng, go to the kitchen and pass on the message that His Majesty wishes to have a warm pot today." "Have all the beef and mutton sliced into thin strips one finger wide and palm-length, thinly sliced like paper, and served on tes immediately." "Then send some fresh, tender cabbage and baby spinach." [!! The Emperor Father even knows how to eat hot pot!] Xiao Chuchu was astonished. [Is this something they actually have here?] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression brightened, but his eyes betrayed no emotion as he continued instructing the eunuch, "Also, ask the imperial kitchen what other ingredients they have that can be put into the warm pot..." [Oh, slices of winter melon and white radish, cooked until almost melting, melting in your mouth like snow...] [And ss noodles! Or throw some noodles into the hot pot. After eating big mouthfuls of meat and vegetables, slurping up a few strands of ss noodles or handmade fine noodles is simply delightful~] Xiao Yunzhou swallowed his saliva imperceptibly. "Wei Zheng, go to the kitchen yourself and see what seasonal vegetables they have. Thinly slice any that can be sliced, and for those that cannot, choose the tender ones. Today we won''t have rice, so have the imperial kitchen prepare some noodles and send them uncooked." After saying this, he nced at Liu Chen as if recalling something else. "Ah Chen, is there anything else you want?" Liu Chen: "..." You''re practically having the entire kitchen brought over, and you''re still asking her! Seeing Liu Chen''s embarrassed inability to respond, Xiao Yunzhou felt sympathetic. Only he, as the father emperor, could hear their daughter''s thoughts. Liu Chen, as the birth mother, could not hear them at all. Ah, poor Liu Chen, having such a treasure by her side without even realizing it. But no matter, His Majesty would protect Liu Chen, the birth mother, from now on. She had given birth to a wonderful daughter for him, an achievement of great merit. After feeling sympathetic for a moment, Xiao Yunzhou became smugly pleased once more. "Ah Chen, let me hold our daughter." He instructed the eunuchs to bring a basin of water to wash his hands before taking Xiao Chuchu into his embrace. "Xiao Chuchu, watch Father and Mother eat hot potter, be good." Xiao Chuchu: "..." With a wail, she burst into tears. It wasn''t long before the hot pot was served. Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chen ate with such freshness and rity. Especially Xiao Yunzhou, it was the first time he saw the dining table set with fresh, uncooked ingredients like thin slices of beef and mutton, baby cabbage... As well as raw scallions, minced garlic, oil dishes, and dried chili dishes, all served without any prior cooking. Holding Xiao Chuchu, he followed her thoughts, rolling the thin beef slices in the boiling hot and spicy broth for ten breaths before scooping them out and cing them in the garlic oil dish that the eunuch had prepared in front of him. After swirling the slices in the fragrant oil, glistening and coated with green scallions and white garlic, he popped one into his mouth, his eyes lighting up. "Hmm, I never imagined that the hot pot instructions from the celestial being in my dreamst night would be so delicious!" "My beloved, you must try some too~" Liu Chen had be his beloved consort. But Liu Chaniang had long since be impervious to honors or insults, calmly mimicking the emperor''s actions by nching a tender cabbage leaf and instantly experiencing the sensation her daughter had described. Before long, the emperor and she had polished off the entire table of meat and vegetables. Xiao Yunzhou particrly loved the mutton rolls, often taking three or five at a time, quickly finishing four whole tes all by himself. It was only when Wei Zheng cautioned him about overeating that he reluctantly stopped, though he still consumed two small bowls of hot pot noodles afterward. Liu Chaniang, on the other hand, preferred the tender cabbage and frozen tofu in the hot pot, as well as the crisp duck intestines, practically monopolizing all of them and leaving little for the Emperor. Wei Zheng kept ring at her. But Xiao Yunzhou didn''t mind at all. How refreshingly real Liu Chen was! In the past, the noble consorts would only daintily pick at their food in front of him, eating as little as a bird - all an act! Now he was increasingly realizing how precious authenticity was! Both of them ate until their mouths were stained red with oil, only stopping whenpletely stuffed. [The Emperor Father actually had a celestial being send him a prophetic dream?] As Xiao Chuchu watched them eat, the more she reflected, the more astonished she became. She had read so many novels, with reincarnations and rebirth beingmonce, so what was a prophetic dream? [But does the Emperor Father know that the recent efforts to control the flooding of the Yellow River will soon fail again, causing it to breach once more, discing and killing tens of thousands of civilians and triggering a gue?] The previously satisfied Xiao Yunzhou froze. [Oh dear, this celestial being is unreliable, only sending the Emperor Father dreams about food? Is this celestial being even capable?] Xiao Chuchu, having not tasted the hot pot but smelled the aroma, was a little annoyed now. Her mood wasn''t great either. Shepletely failed to notice that Xiao Yunzhou, who was holding her, had stopped with his chopsticks in mid-air. Xiao Yunzhou was both shocked and doubtful. The Yellow River region would soon breach again? Impossible! Justst night, he had found time to meditate and cultivate, precisely because he had been busy these past few days discussing with the Ministry of Revenue and Ministry of Personnel how to respond to the Yellow River flooding. On the thirtieth ofst month, the river waters had overflowed, inundating the area around Yang Mountain, discing tens of thousands. He had urgently dispatched provincial governors to provide disaster relief and resettle the disced civilians. He had also ordered the River Management Office to make haste to Yang Mountain and assist the local magistrate in controlling the Yellow River flooding. Just yesterday, a courier had arrived with a message stating that the breach had been contained and the river channel restored. How could there be another breach so soon? Would this not be a punishment from the heavens themselves? Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed dramatically. [Emperor Father, the provincial governors and River Management officials you sent are actually not skilled in dealing with flooding.] Xiao Chuchu recalled the details from the novel. She remembered this flood causing multiple consecutive breaches. [The Yellow River will soon flood again, inundating from five miles north of Kaifeng City all the way east to Chenzhou, Xiangcheng, Taihe, and Yingzhou... everything will be submerged.] Xiao Yunzhou suddenly lost his appetite for the hot pot! [Then the following year, the Yellow River destroyed countless cultivatednds...] [Our dynasty''s national strength declined greatly,ying the seeds for our eventual defeat and conquest by the Mongols.] Xiao Chuchu solemnly recounted the events, but then her eyes lit up. [It wasn''t until the third year that apiler official named Pan Ji, who held a minor fifth-rank position, presented a gift to the chancellery and finally secured a stable position as the Director of Waterways.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou mmed down his chopsticks. Chapter 18 Chapter 18 In the study room of Chonghua Pce. The two Imperial Cab ministers, Minister of Rites, and Privy Council Academician who were summoned looked at each other in bewilderment. Especially Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab, who had just learned that his son-inw was punished for presenting a Daoist priest, not knowing which nerve of the Emperor he had touched. "Is there a Privy Academician named Pan Ji?" Xiao Yunzhou, seated in the principal seat, came straight to the point. The Privy Council Academician twitched his eyelid, "To respond to Your Majesty, there is indeed such a person, a fifth-rank Editor." Xiao Yunzhou immediately grabbed the chair arms, it was real! The Little Princess was right again! "What has Pan Ji''s performance been like in recent years?" The Minister of Rites was sweating profusely. Officials were evaluated once every three years, why was the Emperor suddenly asking about a minor fifth-rank official? There must be an issue. The Privy Council Academician answered on behalf of the Minister of Rites, "To respond to Your Majesty, Editor Pan Jies from the same Metropolitan Examination intake, mainly tasked with coting andpiling ancient texts rted to the dredging of the Gui River Basin. In recent years, he has been diligently editing books, rain or shine." However, after a moment''s thought, he added, "But he does notmunicate much with his colleagues, his temperament is rather entric, and he oftenes and goes alone." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered. This aligned with what the Princess had said - that Pan Ji worked on coting ancient texts rted to dredging. With his entric temperament and solitary habits, it''s no wonder no one rmended him during the recent flood control efforts. Until this minor editor gave a bribe to the Imperial Cab, and then received a rmendation. Thinking about this, Xiao Yunzhou looked disapprovingly at Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab. What a family the Fuchas are! One trying to poison him in the pce, the other taking bribes in court! A capable person like Pan Ji, who wished to apply for dredging the Yellow River Basin after three years, still had to bribe Lord Fucha! This was simply uneptable. "Appoint Pan Ji to Yang Mountain as Director-General of River Dredging," Xiao Yunzhou ordered. "He shall take up the post immediately." The officials in the study were all greatly astonished. Especially the two elderly Imperial Cab ministers and the Minister of Rites, they could not help but look up and observe Xiao Yunzhou''s expression. The Emperor ascended the throne at fifteen and learned governance under the Grand Secretariat for three years. He only started presiding over court sessions himself at eighteen, but even after personally taking charge, he had always greatly trusted the Imperial Cab, especially the elderly Lord Fucha who was rted to him. The Emperor rarely intervened directly in official appointments. Usually, the Imperial Cab would rmend candidates, and Xiao Yunzhou would give his approval. But today was different. "Your Majesty, this cannot be done. This Pan Ji has no experience in river management. Where did Your Majesty hear about him? You should know that learning from texts is superficial - he is merely an editor and may not have even seen what a river looks like." Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab stood up to object. Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, about to speak, when suddenly the cries of an infant came from the side room. All the officials were startled. Who was in the side chamber? Why was there a newborn crying? They were puzzled, but saw Xiao Yunzhou suddenly tense up and ask Wei Zheng with concern, "Is the Little Princess crying? What happened to her?" The officials were dumbfounded. The Third Princess? The Third Princess had just given birth recently, but how could the Little Princess be in the Emperor''s Chonghua Pce? Last night, the Emperor hurt his leg from the Earth Dragon''s upheaval, and today he summoned the newborn Little Princess... The Emperor seemed different somehow. The officials were perplexed, but Wei Zheng knew who was currently favored. He immediately trotted over, as if attending to not the Little Princess, but the future Crown Prince. In a short while, he came back panting with an answer. "Your Majesty, it is the Little Princess crying. The Little Princess seems to want to go out and see the flowers, but Consort Liu is not allowing it." Xiao Yunzhou could not help butugh. "Bring her to me, I will take her to see the flowers. It''s snowing outside, so we''ll look at them in this study room." "Go, bring some potted narcissus and winter sweet flowers." The two elderly ministers were greatly surprised. This was too indulgent! They themselves would not be so doting towards their own children. They were in the middle of a discussion, but now they were going to hold the child and look at flowers? However, Wei Zheng soon steadily carried over the swaddled Xiao Chuch¨². Xiao Yunzhou usually devoted himself to Taoism and did not often show much affection towards his own offspring. He seldom even called his eldest son to be by his side, but now, when holding Xiao Chuch¨², he was all smiles. He even carefully checked to ensure there were no gaps in the little nket that would let in the cold air. "My dear Chuch¨² is so good." "It''s snowing outside, it''s cold, so let''s look at the flowers indoors. Your father will personally hold you while we admire them." The officials were stunned to see Xiao Yunzhou acting like a doting elderly father. [Woof, so these are the Imperial Cab ministers?] Xiao Chuch¨² looked around in her swaddling, her little face beaming with excitement, no longer crying. She just wanted to see the Grand Secretaries. For schrs to reach this level was the highest honor. [It''s a pity Lord Fucha does not cherish it, truly disgracing the face of schrs. Just the bribes he secretly epted are more than the Emperor Father''s private treasury has umted over the ten years since his ascension!] [Ah, the Emperor Father was so frugal before, wanting to build a Taoist temple but couldn''t afford it due tocking funds, so he gave up.] [He must not have expected that with just a glimpse of what was in Lord Fucha''s hands, he would have had enough.] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression suddenly turned grim. The officials in the study all felt a chill in the air. But Xiao Chuch¨² had not noticed yet, her eyes still rolling as she recalled. [This time, the provincial governor sent to manage the flood of the Yellow River was Lord Fucha''s son-inw. He gave Lord Fucha a bribe of a hundred thousand taels of silver.] Outrageous! Xiao Yunzhou almost coughed up blood. A hundred thousand taels - he could hardly afford that! During this flood relief effort, the Ministry of Revenue had said there was a shortage of funds. Yet Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab had personally epted a hundred thousand taels! [Ah, even more despicable was that this bribe-giving son-inw was also greedy himself. Calcting the time, the Emperor Father will soon receive news that the embankment has breached again.] [This was because he stole and cut corners, only spending a third of the silver on the embankment.] Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes and took a deep breath. After all, he was a Taoist cultivator, practicing self-discipline. With his breathing, he suppressed his fury and looked towards the Minister of Rites, "Why are you not going to carry out the order?" The Minister of Rites nced at Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab, hesitating, "Your Majesty, without the Imperial Cab''s approval document, this minister..." Xiao Yunzhou was enraged. But in an instant, an eunuch came rushing to the door, sweating profusely. "Your Majesty, urgent news from Yang Mountain three hundred li away!" "Last night, the embankment breached again!" All the officials in the study room were stunned. Especially the Minister of Rites, who had just hesitated to immediately obey the order to appoint Pan Ji - he almost went weak in the knees. The previous flood control governor, Zhu Ming, was rmended by the Ministry of Rites, then approved by the Imperial Cab, before finally receiving the Emperor''s red stamp of approval. But the Minister of Rites knew that this was just a formality. In reality, Governor Zhu was directly suggested by Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab for him to rmend! Now that Zhu Ming had made a mistake, the Ministry of Rites that rmended him could not escape me! The Minister of Rites had sweat pouring down his back. He was doomed... "Summon the Commander of the Imperial Guards, Lu Tong, immediately arrest Governor Zhu Ming and River Management Minister Liu Xun, and bring them back to the capital!" Xiao Yunzhou, holding the Little Princess to avoid frightening her, did not shout but spoke in a low, calm voice with a piercing gaze like a sword. The Minister of Rites fell to his knees. "The Minister of Rites is suspended for failing to properly oversee officials. Cooperate with the Imperial Guards'' investigation." "The Imperial Cab ministers who approved this appointment shall receive the same punishment, and have their sries docked for five years!" Lord Fucha''s face turned ashen. But Xiao Yunzhou could no longer be bothered to look at him. [Woohoo, well done! Punish those greedy and corrupt officials severely!] [The Emperor Father was so wise today~~~] Xiao Chuch¨² was truly delighted to see the corrupt officials being punished. And by extension, she even found the frugal Emperor Father who was devoted to Taoism a bit more likable. For the first time, Xiao Yunzhou heard his daughter''s ttery, and the corners of his mouth curved up into a smile. Holding his daughter, he went into the inner chambers. "Wei Zheng, call the Fifth Prince to join us for the evening meal." * At the Qianxi No.5 Residence. The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, apanied by a young eunuch, headed to the South Imperial Garden. They met the on-duty Imperial Guard Pang Rusong along the way. Pang Rusong was the guard who carried the Emperor out of the Qianqing Pcest night and was rewarded. He was the future great general of the border regions who was mentioned by the gentle Chuchun. Cheng Qian nodded at him from afar, "Pang the Imperial Guard, were you injuredst night?" Pang the Imperial Guard was touched and quickly paid respects, "Fifth Prince, this servant was not seriously harmed." "Last night, thanks to the Fifth Prince''s warning, this servant escaped through the west gate of the pce, avoiding being struck by the fallen beam." His wife is now the wet nurse of the Third Princess. Yesterday, she sent him a message saying that Liu had promised to take good care of her. Pang the Imperial Guard did not expect that the Fifth Prince would be such a magnanimous person. He was just an ordinary Imperial Guard. Usually, when other princes saw their guards, they would look down upon them with disdain. The Imperial Guards serving the Crown Prince had even been punished by him after being injured in a fight. Inparison, the Fifth Prince was truly kind and benevolent toward others! "This servant thanks the Prince for his concern." "It is good that there is no serious harm," Cheng Qian breathed a sigh of relief. He had heard from his sister and truly could not bear the thought of a future great general being gued by illness and dying from it. Cheng Qian knew that as a prince, he could not have too much contact with the Imperial Guards in front of the Emperor, lest it arouse suspicion. So he had a eunuch deliver some golden wound medicine from the Imperial Physician''s Office, "This time, thanks to Pang the Imperial Guard for rescuing our father the Emperor. In the future, you must take extra care. Minor injuries must be treated promptly, or they will develop into serious illnesses." Pang was so moved that he was about to kneel, but Cheng Qian quickly went over and helped him up. "There is no need for such ceremony. You saved our father, so it is only right that I do this for you." As he spoke, Wei Zheng hurriedly arrived. "Fifth Prince, so you were here. This servant has been searching all over for you." "Pleasee with me to the Chonghua Pce quickly." "The Emperor is waiting for you to join him for skewered meat and hotpot." Chapter 19 Chapter 19 Hotpot? Skewers? The Fifth Prince looked bewildered. In the pce, meals were always nned in advance, and such things had never appeared before. What is this? He could understand the names, but he had never tasted them before. "Thank you, Wei Zheng, for rying the message." The Fifth Prince thought to himself and followed closely behind Wei Zheng with a serious expression on his young face. Throughout the journey, he worried. His sister had said that the Tianqi Dynasty would decline in less than three years under the new ruler. Lately, even in the study room, his tutor had been talking about flooding and the loss of farnd. The tutor had also mentioned the issue of refugees. Money was needed everywhere now. The Tianqi Dynasty already had hidden risks of copse. How could the Emperor still have the leisure to fuss over food, indulging in luxury and waste? The Fifth Prince''s face showed some displeasure, but as soon as he entered the Chonghua Pce, he heard his sister''s babbling voice and involuntarily stopped in his tracks. [Wow, fried mushrooms are delicious! Draw cross-shaped cuts on the back of the thick mushroom, deep-fry it in oil, and when you take a bite, it''s soft, juicy, and locks in the vor. Add cumin powder, salt...] [Deep-fried cabbage is also excellent. The high temperaturepletely removes the original earthy smell of the vegetable, leaving only sweetness...] [Fried chicken fillet is even more amazing. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, with the oil encapsted within. It''s tender and not dry, fresh and not salty. After eating that, have another skewer of fried rice cakes, with sweet sauce coating...] All of the Fifth Prince''sints vanished in an instant. So, it was his sister who came up with the idea of skewers. It turned out they were all inexpensive things like mushrooms, cabbage, and rice cakes that ordinary families could afford. As he stepped into the Chonghua Pce, a warm smile appeared on his face. "Your Majesty, the Fifth Prince has arrived," Wei Zheng ryed with a smile. In a side hall of the Chonghua Pce, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, at this moment, lifted up the sleeves of his dragon-patterned robe. In his left hand, he held a skewer, and in his right hand, a bottle of cumin, which he sprinkled onto the skewer. Upon hearing the news, he looked towards the entrance. At first nce, Xiao Yunzhou was also taken aback. Though he was not particrly close to his children, he did pay attention to his own offspring. The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, had always worn a stern expression since childhood, as if others owed him money. As the revered ruler, Xiao Yunzhou naturally disliked seeing people in such a mood. So, he rarely invited his fifth son to have a meal, to avoid indigestion. But unexpectedly, today Cheng Qian walked in with such a conspicuous smile, which made Xiao Yunzhou pleasantly surprised! "Cheng Qian,e here quickly! Father personally seasoned the skewers. Have a taste." At this moment, Xiao Yunzhou was like apdog. There was no other choice. His youngest son suddenly showed a pleasant demeanor, and the contrast before and after made Xiao Yunzhou find it somewhat rare! Moreover, this filial son had saved him, the Emperor,st night in the Qianqing Pce when the ground dragon flipped. Compared to the third prince, who would be a wasteful new ruler in the future, Cheng Qian was much better. Xiao Yunzhou had Wei Zheng serve his son, ensuring his hands were clean, and then urged him to sit down while handing him a skewer of grilled squid tentacles. "This one has a chewy texture. Your mother doesn''t like it, but Father finds it quite good. Have a taste." Concubine Liu, who was beside them, was currently enjoying the fried chicken wings wrapped in salted egg yolk powder. It was savory, crispy, and tender. When you took a bite, it burst with juice. Xiao Yunzhou handed over a te of well-prepared fried chicken wings to her and said, "You''ve just finished your confinement period, so don''t eat anything too heavy in vor." The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, was greatly shocked by what he saw. It had only been a day since hest saw his mother sitting beside the emperor, eating the fried skewers he had served? "Wow, the emperor father is so considerate to the empress mother. I''m so envious!" "Even though he loves eating chicken wings himself, he still gives them to the empress mother!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face showed a hint of delight. Previously, people had ttered him, but it was always insincere. Where else could he receive such immediate praise? Whatever he did, there was instant feedback in the form ofpliments. He didn''t realize that he now resembled a mischievous child. Onepliment and he would go crazy with excitement. The more he was praised, the more motivated he became. However, there was nothing he could do about it. He had been proimed the crown prince at the age of three, and thete emperor had been strict with him. Three grand tutors were appointed to educate him. The Four Books and Five ssics, equestrian archery, and governing the country¡ªthe grand tutors demanded strictness and rarely praised him. Thete emperor and the empress dowager both hoped that he would stand on his own. If he yed around even slightly, he would be reprimanded at the time. After he ascended the throne at the age of fifteen, he was scolded by the empress dowager for indulging in pleasure during a winter hunt. He was forced to write a self-critical edict. When he took over the government, he allowed the empress dowager to enjoy her retirement, but the ministers and imperial censors became zealous, always criticizing him for everything he did wrong. Even when he didn''t want to choose concubines or enter the harem, they would bring up the ancestors to lecture him! The imperial censors had never sent a single memorial praising him as a good emperor. It was always about what he did wrong! Xiao Yunzhou had truly never heard such timely "praise" in many years. "Wow, Emperor Father is amazing! The cumin is evenly sprinkled, and his gestures are elegant. I''m drooling!" "Help, I want to eat too~~~" Xiao Yunzhou immediately grinned, ced the fried skewers in his son''s and Concubine Liu''s bowls, and then wiped his hands clean to pick up his darling daughter. "Chu Chu, when you grow up, Father will also make fried skewers for you to eat." "You can eat as much as you want, and Father will prepare them for you." Little Xiao Chu Chu immediately opened her toothless mouth, and drool flowed out. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian nced at his mother and quickly put a fragrant fried squid into his mouth. Father really heard his little sister''s thoughts! Could their whole family hear each other? * In Kunning Pce, The Empress was checking the Crown Prince''s homework. "Your father has been supervised by thete emperor since he was young, excelling in both literature and martial arts." "That''s why you should also listen to the guidance of the teachers in the study. When the teacher tells you to read an article once, you should read it three times." "Your father would be pleased to know, you know?" The Crown Prince nodded. His father had grown up like this, so naturally, he would also demand strictness from his son. But while they were talking, a pce maid came in and whispered into the Empress''s ear. After a while, the Empress was both surprised and delighted. "Consort Gui has been punished for her religious cultivation? Senior Minister Fucha has also been reprimanded?" She couldn''t hide her joy. Consort Gui and her mother''s family were the biggest obstacles to the Crown Prince''s ascension. Consort Gui and the Fucha n, this was great news! But the pce maid quickly leaned in and whispered something in her ear, causing the Empress to be shocked and angry. "Liu has been promoted to Concubine Liu?" Promoted two ranks at once? "The Fifth Prince and Concubine Liu are dining with the emperor?" She had visited the emperorst night when he was injured, but he didn''t see her because he was recuperating! "Does the Emperor know about the incident where Concubine Liu was harmed by the nanny?" The Empress''s face paled. She had not informed the Emperor about the incident of Concubine Liu almost falling ill. The Emperor had been extremely busytely, and she enjoyed seeing the women in the harem with children suffer. It didn''t matter afterwards, so she naturally didn''t mention it to the Emperor. Now, the Empress was anxious. The next words from the pce maid made her expression even worse. "The Emperor just issued an edict, stating that Consort Liu and Concubine Liu are to apany the Winter Festival in Qiu Mountain." * Liu Mansion in the Capital City. Madam Liu and Lord Liu received the news that their daughter and granddaughter were to apany the Winter Festival out of the pce. This news was delivered to Liu Mansion when Pang Rusong left the pce. "Why did the Fifth Prince befriend the imperial guards? What if the Emperor bes suspicious? This is too careless," Lord Liu said cautiously. Lord Liu was more cautious. But Madam Liu''s heart was pounding. She grabbed her husband''s arm and said, "Husband, take me with you to Qiu Mountain. The families of officials can rest at the foot of Qiu Mountain. Even the Lady of the neighboring Jingzhao Mansion has gone before." "Madam, we are different. Our grandchild is an imperial prince, and our Liu family is a close rtive. It''s better to be cautious," Lord Liu disagreed. But Madam Liu insisted. She wanted to see her granddaughter again. Her granddaughter was more adorable than ordinary babies and carried the sign of a fairy''s rebirth. Since that night of the nanny incident, Madam Liu had been dreaming of the tragic fate of the Liu family as described by her granddaughter. Her daughter was going to be buried! Neither her granddaughter nor grandson survived! The entire Liu family was going to be destroyed. She didn''t care about being a close rtive or the Emperor''s suspicions. Ah, the current Emperor would be buried in three years! "Husband, this time I must go. Our granddaughter and daughter have finally left the pce. Let me have a distant look," Madam Liu pleaded. Lord Liu couldn''t resist his wife''s persistence and could only agree. On the day of the Winter Festival, the officials gathered in front of the Chongyang Gate for the morning court. Then they each boarded their carriages and horses to apany the Emperor to Qiu Mountain Temple. From a distance, when Lord Liu was about to board a rented carriage at the intersection of Chongyang Gate, he heard a childish voice as if it sounded in front of him. ["Huh? Is that my grandfather?"] Lord Liu shivered. He turned his head suddenly and looked ahead. ["Oh my, Grandfather is also handsome. His figure is well-preserved and hasn''t changed. It''s a pity that during the reign of the Emperor''s father, Grandfather experienced three demotions and was considered foolish and useless by the Emperor''s father. As a result, when the new Emperor ascended the throne, the Liu family was used of seven crimes and exiled three thousand miles away for military service. There were hardly any ministers who spoke up for the Liu family."] The usually cautious Lord Liu: "?" Chapter 20 Chapter 20 [The Old Master of Liu Family], was always cautious. Especially aftering to the capital and his daughter entered the pce harem, giving birth to the Prince, the Old Master of Liu Family became even more low-key. He did not want to make any mistakes that could affect his daughter and grandson''s future. If anyone offered him money as a gift, he would not ept it. He served diligently as a fifth-rank official at the Imperial Academy, never arrivingte or leaving early. How could such a dutiful upright official be considered foolish! [Oh Grandpa looks so intelligent, with a broad forehead and an impressive nose like a hanging sphere.] [Little did I expect that in Father Emperor''s evaluation, Grandpa is just branded with the word "fool"!] The Old Master of Liu Family stared with widened eyes. Nonsense. This must be nonsense! The Old Master of Liu Family even forgot to board the carriage, frozen in his steps. The Old Madam of Liu Family was already seated inside the carriage, and through the carriage curtains, she saw the Old Master''s stunned expression. At the same time, she also heard the thoughts of her granddaughter, the Little Princess. The pce carriages and sedan chairs were queued up ahead, blocking the route at thentern shop. The Old Madam of Liu Family couldn''t help but look in that direction. Her daughter and the Little Princess must be inside, and being so close, the Little Princess''s thoughts came through to her. Could the Old Master have heard it too? [Sigh, Father Emperor has tried to give Grandpa opportunities for promotion and to provide a respectable status for Mother and Fifth Brother, but Grandpa always failed to seize them.] [After several such missed chances, Grandpa has left Father Emperor with the impression that he is clumsy and foolish.] The Old Master of Liu Family: "???" This must be The Emperor''s problem, not his problem! When did The Emperor ever give him opportunities for promotion? After arriving in the capital, he worked for a period at the Hanlin Academy as an editor, then was sent to serve as the Lingcheng County Magistrate. Three yearster, he was transferred to the Imperial Academy in the capital, specifically teaching students aspiring to enter the Hanlin Academy. Could this be considered an opportunity for promotion given by The Emperor? But he had seized these opportunities! He worked diligently at the Imperial Academy, assisting the Ritual Master, without any mistakes! Where was the foolishness? Where was the foolishness? "Huizhi, how do you think I have performed in my official duties?" The Old Master of Liu Family could not understand and immediately asked his wife. The Old Madam of Liu Family had apanied him to Lingcheng and back to the capital. On regr days, the Old Master would often discuss with the Old Madam the official matters he encountered. She was most clear about how he performed! After all, when they got married, he was just a poor schr. Over the years of supporting each other, the Old Master had be ustomed to telling his wife everything. If he encountered difficulties, he would also ask for his wife''s opinion. Of course, he did not necessarily follow her advice. Several times in private, he felt that she was wrong. "Huizhi, speak honestly, have I made any mistakes in Lingcheng or at the Imperial Academy?" The Old Master of Liu Family felt that he had never failed any of themon people throughout his life. He answered to his ancestors above and descendants below! It was The Emperor whocked discernment! The Old Madam of Liu Family had originally been anxious after hearing the Little Princess say that the Old Master had missed several opportunities, wasting The Emperor''s efforts to give their Fifth Prince a respectable maternal family status. But hearing the Old Master question her like this, she could not help but cover her face andugh inside the carriage. Could the old man also hear the Little Princess''s thoughts? The old man was indeed not very bright! After getting married, he took the imperial examination three times, spending ten years before finally passing as a schr in the lowest rank. "Not bad." But fortunately, he was diligent and wholeheartedly worked for the benefit of the people. Although his literary skills were average and hisprehension was average, he was hardworking and willing to put in the effort. The Old Madam of Liu Family did not want to dampen the Old Master''s spirit, but considering the Little Princess''s warning was no trivial matter, she immediately sat upright in the carriage. "Old Master, did you perhaps hear some voice?" "No!" "Nonsense, this old servant did not hear anything!" The Old Master of Liu Family tly denied any nonsensical ims. But as he spoke, his voicecked strength, and his gaze could not help but drift towards the Emperor and Empress''s carriages that had already passed far ahead. Then, it shifted to the nearest dark purple pce sedan chair. The Old Master of Liu Family''s gaze became slightly absent. That ethereal voice called him "Grandpa", so adorable and endearing. Could it be his daughter''s newborn Little Princess? In an instant, the vexation on the Old Master of Liu Family''s face dissipated, as he gazed longingly at that dark purple pce sedan chair with affectionate eyes. He had not yet seen the Little Princess. During the bathing and full moon ceremonies, his wife could enter the pce to see their daughter and granddaughter, but he, as an outside male, could not go into the harem. The voice he just heard was so childlike and cute, his precious granddaughter must be an adorable beauty. What nonsense and balderdash? There was none. His granddaughter was just being sweet. Thinking this, the Old Master of Liu Family could not help but gaze towards the Emperor''s entourage at the very front. It must all be The Emperor''s fault! "Old Master, honest words may offend the ear. What you should listen to, you still need to heed." The Old Madam of Liu Family spoke gravely. With just one look at him, she knew his w had resurfaced. Besides being overly cautious, he was also stubborn. Most schrly men had this w, not shedding tears until they saw the coffin, refusing to admit their own mistakes, thinking they were the best in the world! The Old Master of Liu Family stared, "You... you heard it too?" The Old Madam of Liu Family nervously lifted the carriage curtain, "Get in the carriage to talk." They had to wait for the pce carriages to pass before they could depart. The carriages of all the officials were currently stopped on the small road, waiting. The Old Master of Liu Family nodded reluctantly. "In any case, Huizhi, I am not foolish." "Those words cannot be trusted." He did not even consider the possibility of his granddaughter being reincarnated with some spiritual powers. Instead, he was fixated on The Emperor considering him foolish. Truly, not even eight oxen could pull him back, no wonder The Emperor disliked him! The Old Madam of Liu Family was so exasperated she wanted tough. Just as she was about to refute him, the Little Princess''s soft, sweet voice came through again. [Today we go to Qiu Mountain for the ritual sacrifice, and Father Emperor is particrly mindful of the ceremony due to the Earth Dragon''s unrest.] [Whoever makes a mistake today will leave a deep, indelible impression on him.] [Yet strangely, not long after Father Emperor''s carriages had passed, Grandpa fell t on level ground.] [Ah, falling from a horse or being knocked down is no big deal. But for Grandpa to trip and fall on t ground, hisck of coordination and resulting loss of dignity, missing the Winter Sacrifice, has left Father Emperor with yet another deep negative impression!] The Old Master of Liu Family: "?" The Old Madam of Liu Family immediately became very anxious and poked her head out of the carriage curtain, "Zhang San, support the Old Master." Zhang San was their family servant. The Old Master of Liu Family was enraged. How could he fall on level ground? As he was thinking this, the Ritual Master Xu from the Imperial Academy leaned out of his nearby carriage and called out to him, "Schr Wen Chang,e to my carriage, we can discuss matters as we walk." The Old Master of Liu Family immediately put aside his indignation, bowed to Ritual Master Xu, and headed towards his carriage. "Madam, I will go over there..." As he walked, he turned his head to instruct the Old Madam of Liu Family. But before he could finish, he felt his feet slip from under him! His whole body lost bnce, and the world spun upside down before his eyes! "Old Master - be careful!" The Old Madam of Liu Family was so anxious she almost screamed out loud. But no sooner said than done, the servant Zhang San, who had just been instructed to support the Old Master, grabbed and held up the falling Old Master! The Old Master of Liu Family barely managed to steady himself, avoiding a disgraceful fall. [Woo, Grandpa really fell...] The Old Master of Liu Family: "!" [Phew, thankfully he was supported. Grandpa is wise, bringing the attentive Grandma along today... Phew, saved.] The Old Master of Liu Family''s face rapidly flushed red and then pale white. The Little Princess had predicted it urately! The Old Master of Liu Family looked towards the pce carriages in disbelief. But just as he was steadying himself with Zhang San''s help, he saw Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who had been leading the procession by half a street, suddenly turn his head back from the main carriages! He looked directly at the spot where the Old Master had nearly fallen disgracefully! Cold sweat instantly soaked the Old Master of Liu Family''s back. "Old Master, are you alright?" The Old Madam of Liu Family was also extremely anxious. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou scanned themoners and seeing no unusual reactions, realizing they did not me him as the Emperor for the Earth Dragon''s unrest, he finally felt relieved and shifted his roving gaze away. The Old Master of Liu Family saw the Emperor turn his head, and color returned to his face. "You see, I told you to listen!" the Old Madam of Liu Family chided. Especially to his great-granddaughter! The Old Master of Liu Family took a breath, "Madam, a child''s nonsensical babble should not be taken too seriously, perhaps it was merely a coincidence." The Old Madam of Liu Family red at him, this stubborn mule! But soon the couple pricked up their ears together. [Today Grandfather averted a crisis, but two dayster at the pce Q&A, he must be more careful.] [The Father Emperor will ask Grandfather ''How should Pan Zhishui be dealt with?'', if Grandfather answers wrongly, he will soon be demoted!] The Old Master of Liu Family''s expression changed. Chapter 21 Chapter 21 Before the city gate, Master Liu declined Ritual Master Xu''s offer to ride together, iming that he didn''t sleep well the previous night. He had no mood to chat with anyone now! He and the Old Madam of the Liu Family exchanged nces, both silently listening to the soft, tender voice that followed. Especially Master Liu, though he didn''t admit it, he listened intently. [Even if the Emperor Father is not lingering in the harem now, he still needs to give the Mother who bore his son and daughter a proper status.] [So, this time he wants to give Grandfather another promotion opportunity, and has someonee to ask you ''how to handle Pan Ji''s river administration''.] Master Liu''s expression turned serious. He also wanted a promotion, partly to serve the people, and partly to earn face for his daughter! If the maternal grandfather was promoted, the Fifth Prince in the pce would also not be looked down upon by others. Master Liu immediately began to ponder. ¡ªHow to handle Pan Ji''s river administration? Did the Emperor want to send him to work on clearing the Yellow River region? Was he asking how Master Liu would assist Pan Ji, who had just been promoted to the position of river administration governor a few days ago? While Master Liu pondered, the pce carriages had already gone far away. The nearest pnquin carrying Concubine Liu was also slowly disappearing from sight. [Grandfather, if you answer like this, it would be good...] The soft, tender voice seemed to be getting farther away, bing inaudible. The Old Madam of the Liu Family immediately became anxious, "Old Master, do you have confidence? Can you answer it?" "When we reach Qiu Mountain, I''ll try to find a way to see Concubine Liu and the Little Princess!" Only by being close could he hear the intentions of his young granddaughter. Master Liu narrowed his eyes and raised his eyebrows, "Don''t startle the Little Princess!" After the imperial carriages and officials'' sedan chairs left, they finally boarded their own horse-drawn carriages and headed towards Qiu Mountain one by one. Once the carriage curtains were drawn, the sound of hooves and wheels apanied them all the way. The elderly couple of the Liu Family spoke softly, so others could not hear them. Master Liu pondered and asked, "Does our daughter know about the Little Princess''s situation?" The Old Madam of the Liu Family hesitated but soon shook her head, "When I went to the pce during the Little Princess''s full moon ceremony, Channiang seemed unaware, and the Fifth Prince showed no reaction either. It seems that only I could hear the Little Princess''s voice back then, and now Old Master can too." Master Liu''s face lit up with delight, "Our granddaughter is close to us!" The Old Madam of the Liu Family red at him, "Then don''t answer the Emperor''s question wrong and embarrass the Little Princess! If you get demoted, it''s fine, you can just go back and sell sweet potatoes. But if you implicate our daughter and the Little Princess, you''ll have me to answer to!" Master Liu waved his hand dismissively. "''How to handle Pan Ji''s river administration''... Since I know the Emperor''s question in advance, I''ll prepare for two days, don''t worry, Madam, I won''t answer it wrong." Since the Emperor wanted to send him to handle the river administration, he would go and have tea with a few officials from the river administration department in the next two days to seek advice. "And I''ll have Zhang San buy me a few books, so I can study them through the night." The Old Madam of the Liu Family felt relieved upon hearing this. This preparation seemed adequate. Much more reliable than answering on the spot. If the Old Master still answered incorrectly after such preparation, it would be no wonder the Emperor didn''t want to employ him. The couple discussed a bit more and came to a tacit agreement, "Since they don''t know about the Little Princess''s situation, let''s keep it between us and not reveal a single word." Their granddaughter had given him the question in advance, but if the Emperor found out, wouldn''t that be cheating? Master Liu, who intended to be clever and regain the Emperor''s favor, was determined to keep it confidential! "If the Little Princess mentions anything about our daughter or the Fifth Prince, Madam, you must find a way to inform them when you go to the pce." "Of course!" Two dayster, the ancestral sacrifice at Qiu Mountain was sessfully conducted under the supervision of the Abbot of Qiu Mountain Monastery. The Emperor decided to stay for three more days, eating vegetarian and reciting scriptures, with all officials in attendance. During this period, Xiao Yunzhou summoned many officials to answer questions before the Emperor and handle state affairs. Finally, on the third day, it was the long-awaited turn of the elderly Master Liu. Surprisingly, the one who came to summon him was none other than Wei Zheng, the chief eunuch. Wei Zheng smiled amiably, not only treating Master Liu with respect all the way, but also invited the Old Madam of the Liu Family to join them at Concubine Liu''s residence. "The Emperor, in his benevolence, knows that Concubine Liu has recently given birth and misses her parents." "Therefore, he has graciously allowed Master Liu and the Old Madam to dine with Concubine Liu first. After an hour, this servant wille and escort Master Liu to the Emperor''s presence." Master Liu and the Old Madam were both taken aback. They had already received the news that their daughter had been elevated to the rank of Concubine. But they didn''t expect the Emperor to be so considerate. Master Liu was very pleased, but as soon as he followed the Old Madam into the side hall where Concubine Liu was staying, he was struck with shock and froze on the spot. [Grandfather, you''re going to have a bad day today.] [You misunderstood the question ''how to handle Pan Ji''s river administration''!] [It''s not asking you how you would handle the river administration yourself! You''re answering in the direction of you personally handling the river administration, which would bepletely wrong!] Master Liu and the Old Madam were both dumbfounded. Especially the Old Madam, who red fiercely at her husband! What thorough preparation? What guaranteed no mistakes? Big liar! "How..." How could it not be about him handling the river administration? Master Liu was dazed. [You''re the deputy at the Imperial Academy, which trains future officials. Why would the Emperor Father ask you about handling the river administration?] [River administration is not your responsibility.] [''How to handle Pan Ji''s river administration'' means the Emperor Father is asking you, since Pan Ji, a talented official, has been transferred to handle the river administration, his former position at the Hanlin Academy is now vacant. As the deputy of the Imperial Academy that trains students, what do you think of the Third Son of Duke Yingguo, the student Ying Qin - could he be transferred to the Hanlin Academy to fill Pan Ji''s vacancy?] The Old Madam of the Liu Family suddenly understood. Master Liu was dumbstruck, his face quickly turning red. The Emperor''s question had such a meaning! He hadpletely misunderstood the direction. His granddaughter understood better than he did. Little Xiao Chuchu let out a soft cry in Concubine Liu''s arms, her face flushed as she tried to gesture, but it was too difficult for her. This adorable sight made Concubine Liu, now a mother, unable to resist and want to give her daughter a big kiss. "Chuchu is so good." Channiang, who had now attained the rank of Concubine, quickly turned her thoughts and looked towards her long-unseen father. With reddened eyes, she pointed out, "Father, your granddaughter and I were practicing recognizing characters this morning, and it seems she can recognize the character ''one'' now." "Nonsense, the Princess is too young! Don''t force her growth, let her eat, sleep, and y properly." Master Liu couldn''t help but object. Channiang smiled and nodded, "People in different positions have different perspectives. I used to resent Mother for being strict with me, but only after bing a mother myself did I realize that both Father and Mother did it for my own good." "It shows that no matter what you do, you must first understand your position and identity." Master Liu fell silent. So the Emperor thought he was foolish. What seemed like a simple mistake of answering the wrong question actually revealed that he had failed to understand his responsibilities. He had misunderstood the direction of thinking about the problem from the start, rendering all his efforts useless. Before summoning him, the Emperor had most likely asked Ritual Master Xu from the Imperial Academy the same question. They naturally had to be very familiar with the outstanding students in the academy, knowing who could take on what positions in the future and whether they could handle the responsibilities... They had to be clear about all of this. If Ritual Master Xu had answered the Emperor''s question correctly and he answered it wrongly, it would make him look exceptionally foolish! If he couldn''t even handle a matter concerning the Imperial Academy, what position could he be ced in? How could he be promoted? Master Liu immediately broke out in a cold sweat. That was a close call! By the time they finished their meal, someone came from the front courtyard. "The Emperor summons Liu Siyi." Chapter 22 Chapter 22 At the Qiu Mountain Festival, the Emperor and Empress resided together in the Qiu Mountain Temple. ording to tradition, no other consorts were allowed to apany them, but this time was different. The recently promoted Concubine Liu, along with Consort Min from the Donghua Pce, as well as several other consorts, were all granted the Emperor''s decree to follow, with both the Empress Dowager and the Empress Mother in attendance. The reason given was that a few days prior, the City Dragon of the capital had stirred, causing several parts of the imperial pce to copse. Therefore, the Emperor brought everyone to pray for blessings. If there were any transgressions, they would be reflected upon at the Ancestral Temple of Qiu Mountain. Otherwise, they would pray for the realm and the Xiao Dynasty. "Your Majesty, Lord Liu Wenchang has arrived," Wei Zheng announced outside the quiet chamber. The Emperor was staying in the most secluded courtyard at the rear of the Qiu Mountain Temple. He had always favored self-cultivation and disliked noise, so he allowed the Empress and the Crown Prince to reside in the spacious and lively front courtyard closest to the temple buildings. The Emperor and Empress were situated far apart, to the north and south. Surprisingly, Concubine Liu, who had not yet attained the official rank of Consort, was housed in the courtyard right in front of the Emperor''s residence. Lord Liu Wenchang, the father of Concubine Liu, stood waiting in the courtyard. As he was led through, he grew increasingly rmed. What madness had possessed the Emperor to suddenly favor his daughter like this? "Lord Liu, the Emperor summons you. Pleasee with me," Wei, the eunuch attendant, greeted him with a smile. Liu Wenchang''s heart surged with emotion. Just a year ago, Wei would never have treated him with such courtesy. Today, the eunuch had smiled at him the entire way and personally escorted him to see his daughter. He must be basking in his daughter''s glory. It seemed that his great-granddaughter had been right about the Emperor intending to promote him, to save face for Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince. Pondering this, Liu Wenchangposed himself and followed Wei with a lowered gaze into the inner chamber. He dared not let his eyes wander or gaze upon the Emperor''s countenance, for that would be disrespectful. "Your subject, Liu Wenchang, presents himself before Your Majesty," the old lord murmured, catching a glimpse of the imperial dragon embroidery before starting to kneel. But before he could bend his knees, Xiao Yunzhou called out, "No need for excessive ceremony, Lord Liu." "We are not in the court today, so there''s no need to be so formal." The Emperor was dressed in casual robes today, not the full imperial regalia worn during court sessions. Sitting at the table with a cup of tea in hand, Xiao Yunzhou asked, "Lord Liu, have you seen Concubine Liu and the young Princess?" Liu Wenchang''s heart skipped a beat. The Emperor addressed him as ''Lord Liu,'' a title used for officials in the Imperial Academy. This foreshadowed the questions toe, which were likely rted to the Imperial Academy. The old lord silently eximed, realizing that if not for his great-granddaughter''s advice and his daughter''s guidance, he would havepletely misunderstood the Emperor''s intentions! "Your humble subject has seen them. I am grateful to Your Majesty''s kindness. Since Concubine Liu entered the pce, I have not been able to meet with her or my daughter. Only during the New Year''s Pce Banquet could I catch a glimpse of the Fifth Prince from afar." "Today, Your Majesty has allowed me to see Concubine Liu and the young Princess, alleviating the longing I felt for my daughter. Your subject is deeply moved and tears of gratitude well up. Seeing Concubine Liu in good health has put my mind at ease." Xiao Yunzhou gave a slight nod and casually nced at Liu Wenchang, carefully observing his expression. Seeing only a father''s longing for his daughter and affection for his grandchildren on the old lord''s face, the Emperor exhaled in relief. Only he, the Emperor, could hear the voice of the young Princess! Only he received the heavenly warnings and blessings! Xiao Yunzhou''s heart was touched, and his mood brightened, regarding Liu Wenchang with increased fondness. After all, this was the grandfather of the reincarnated fairy, the young Princess, his daughter-inw. It was thanks to the Liu family for raising Concubine Liu so well, instilling her with virtue. This, in turn, produced the filial and intelligent Fifth Prince and the subsequent reincarnation of the fairy as the young Princess. If the Liu familycked virtue, would the fairy have chosen their household, reincarnating as Concubine Liu''s daughter? Pondering this, Xiao Yunzhou gestured with satisfaction. "Lord Liu, please have a seat." "I summoned you today simply to chat casually." Liu Wenchang swiftly expressed his gratitude, his heart pounding. Here ites! Even if it''s not the question his great-granddaughter mentioned, no matter - he would answer earnestly... But before he could finish the thought, he noticed Xiao Yunzhou regarding him warmly. "Lord Liu, what are your thoughts on Ying Qin managing the flood control efforts at Pan Reservoir?" Liu Wenchang: "!" Goodness gracious, his great-granddaughter had indeed predicted it correctly! What was this? It was like receiving the exam questions even before entering the examination hall! What kind of celestial being was his great-granddaughter?! The old lord from the Liu family was utterly astonished. But he raised his dignified countenance, met Xiao Yunzhou''s gentle inquiry, and furrowed his brow slightly, sping his hands behind his back. His steady, aged gaze drifted outward as if deep in contemtion, portraying the pose of a sagely schr. He did not respond to the Emperor immediately. Liu Wenchang had failed the imperial examinations three times and only became a presented schr after ten years of effort. His ability to endure and wait patiently was unparalleled. The thrill, excitement, and shock of receiving the questions in advance did not show on his slightly wrinkled, dignified face. He was in no hurry to answer, not even for the Emperor. Surely he could not let the Emperor know that he had already been informed of the questions! He could not let the Emperor know that his great-granddaughter had told him the answers, allowing him to score top marks! Absolutely not. Liu Wenchang pretended to hear the question for the first time, feigning deep contemtion before answering slowly and steadily. "In response to Your Majesty''s query, Ying Qin, the third son of the Duke of Ying, has always been a diligent student at the Imperial Academy." "For ordinary texts, he can grasp the general meaning after reading them five or six times." "If the Pan Reservoir requires flood control efforts, and the Hanlin Academycks staff topile records, Ying Qin, with his extensive knowledge, would be well-suited for the task." Liu Wenchang looked towards the Emperor with an expression of having just recalled the information. Xiao Yunzhou indeed appeared satisfied upon hearing this and said, "Good. Since both you and Academician Xu have vouched for him, then I can trust in his abilities." Liu Wenchang''s heart skipped a beat. So Academician Xu had also been asked the same question! Earlier, as he was being led up the mountain, he had encountered Xu walking down. They had exchanged greetings, but Xu did not mention the Emperor''s question or his own response. A bead of sweat formed on Liu Wenchang''s back. He had nearly exposed Academician Xu''s capabilities and revealed his ownck of insight! "Then I shall instruct the Ministry of Personnel to handle the arrangements," Xiao Yunzhou said with a smile, signaling Wei Zheng to serve Liu Wenchang some tea. Ever since the water controlmissioner had made a mistake, leading to the dismissal and investigation of the Minister of Personnel, that ministry had be far more obedient. Having received a satisfactory answer, Xiao Yunzhou regarded Liu Wenchang with newfound appreciation. In previous conversations, he had found Concubine Liu''s father somewhat ''clumsy'' in his official conduct,cking in worldly wisdom and too literal in his interpretations. He had always focused on the wrong points. The Emperor had reviewed Liu Wenchang''s background - the Liu family ancestors were farmers. It was only in Liu Wenchang''s generation that they produced a presented schr. Hence, the old lord possessed the diligence of a farmer butcked the ''agility'' of those born into schrly households. This was understandable. But Xiao Yunzhou had been groomed as the Crown Prince from a young age, navigating the court politics with the Imperial Cab, thete Emperor, the eunuchs, and the imperial harem. He had to develop a hundred and eight perspectives just to survive, which made him look down upon Liu Wenchang''sck of ''agility''. However, today the Emperor found this manmendable. Though not particrly adroit, he possessed wisdom and took his duties seriously. At the Imperial Academy, he knew his students like the back of his hand and could keep up with the Emperor''s line of thinking! Earlier, Academician Xu from the Imperial Academy did not know how quickly the student Ying Qin could memorize texts. Inparison, Concubine Liu''s father was the kind of trusted minister one could rely upon. Ack of agility was not an issue, as the Emperor could protect him. Thinking of the precarious future of the Xiao Dynasty, Xiao Yunzhou cherished such loyal officials. "Lord Liu, you have been at the Imperial Academy for nearly three years now, correct?" Liu Wenchang''s heart pounded like a drum. "Indeed, it has been over three years." "Hmm, it is time for a change then," Xiao Yunzhou said with a smile. Liu Wenchang was dumbfounded. His great-granddaughter had, once again, urately predicted the Emperor''s intentions! Chapter 23 Chapter 23 To the left of the emperor''s courtyard, through a secluded path, after walking a hundred paces one would arrive at the small courtyard where Concubine Liu resided. [Grandpa seems to be getting promoted! Wow!] [Awesome Grandpa, Grandpa stood up, and today he even answered the emperor father''s questions correctly.] Xiao Chuchu was being lovingly embraced by Old Madam Liu, as they watched the live broadcast from the emperor''s side. She spent 3 credits for today''s live broadcast. She found that the more she watched live broadcasts, the higher the cost for each viewing, increasing by 1 credit every time. But now, she was already a big credit holder. With her birth mother''s new position and the emperor father''s fondness for this little princess, she had been rewarded with many credits. She had now umted 395 credits and was nning to save up to have enough for ten draws in the lottery. The system said this way, the chances of drawing an SSR could be increased by 10%. [Maybe it''s the butterfly effect I brought, with mother''s promotion, I get to see Grandpa.] [Just now mother said, ''It''s only after bing a mother that one understands a mother''s thoughts, what one does is rted to one''s position'', inadvertently enlightening Grandpa.] [This led to Grandpa''s change today, with his fluent responses in court.] Xiao Chuchu guessed. Old Madam Liu, who was holding her, couldn''t help but smile. What enlightenment? Your grandpa simply heard the voice in your adorable little heart! Concubine Liu was embroidering a golden carp belly warmer for her daughter. Under her needles, the pink golden carp came alive. Hearing her daughter''s inner voice, the corners of her mouth curved upwards as well. Her father had avoided a disaster and was even promoted? Wonderful, it was fortunate that she heard her daughter''s inner voice and reminded her father in time. Her father was also quite smart, he understood. She had been worried that with her father''s straightforward nature, he might not understand, which is why she had been a little distracted while embroidering the belly warmer. [Wah, my emperor father is actually sending Grandpa to the Censorate!] Old Madam Liu and Concubine Liu pricked up their ears in silence. The Censorate? The emperor was sending him to be a censor, to supervise all officials? Being transferred from the Imperial Academy to such a position feared by all officials, this was indeed a great honor! [Grandpa is so moved that he''s about to cry, his eyes are red.] [This is Grandpa''s first time experiencing a promotion. After serving as a county magistrate for three years, he was transferred back to the capital to the Imperial Academy, but he wasn''t happy with that position.] [Although the Imperial Academy was rxing, it was far removed from the people''s livelihood and state affairs. Grandpa could only watch as his students went out to be officials and benefit the people, while he couldn''t do the same and could only envy them.] [Ah, now that he hears he can go to the Censorate, Grandpa can''t help but cry.] Old Madam Liu and Concubine Liu listened, their faces filled with excitement as well. Although Master Liu had never held a high official position, he truly wanted to make a difference and be an official that benefited the people. This was the aspiration that had kept him going for ten years in the imperial examinations, the reason he never gave up! Unfortunately, after three years upon three years, he ended up being transferred to the Imperial Academy instead. But now, finally, things were better! All thanks to the little princess''s reminder. Old Madam Liu looked down at the grinning and smiling Xiao Chuchu, unwilling to let her go. Not long after, Master Liu returned with a bright and cheerful demeanor, puffing out his chest. "Mydy, madam, I have a new assignment!" Master Liu was in high spirits, unable to contain his smile as he entered the courtyard. Although his new official rank was still at the fifth level, which seemed like ateral transfer, it was actually a promotion! As a censor, he could submit memorials to the emperor at any time. Except for during vacations, he had to attend court every day and could speak out and criticize others in court whenever he wished! "The emperor has ordered me to take up the position at the Censorate." The corners of Master Liu''s mouth stretched all the way to his gums. Old Madam Liu and Concubine Liu both smiled calmly. They knew. They had already known. Just now, they had heard the live broadcast from the little princess! "Master Liu, the emperor values you highly. You must not disappoint the emperor and need to be more diligent in your work from now on," Old Madam Liu reminded Master Liu, who was fated to be ''foolish and get demoted three times after being promoted three times''. Concubine Liu also recalled the little princess''s warning and nodded, "Father has always taught us not to be arrogant orcent even after receiving praise from our teachers. Father should do the same and not let a momentary excitement lead to mistakes." Master Liu: "..." What was with his wife and daughter''s distrustful looks? He frowned and rolled his eyes, but soon remembered a more important matter, "Let me see the little princess, the dragon princess born in an extraordinary manner." Thanks to his granddaughter''s reminder! "Go, go, go, I haven''t had enough of holding her yet!" Old Madam Liu turned her body, unwilling to let go. Master Liu: "..." Outside the courtyard, Wei Zheng had been standing and listening for a while. He then gestured to the servant Qiu Li in the courtyard for silence before hastily leaving. Turning around, he entered the courtyard of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. "Your Majesty, this servant listened outside for quite a while. Master Liu is overjoyed by Your Majesty''s high regard for him." Wei Zheng praised. "But Concubine Liu and Old Madam of the Liu Family advised him not to be arrogant orcent, and to work hard for Your Majesty, lest he disappoint Your Majesty and the people." Xiao Yunzhou put down the book scroll in his hand, his gaze filled with emotion. This family was a good one. He had Wei Zheng go and listen, wanting to confirm once again whether they could hear the little princess''s inner voice and if they would discuss the little princess behind closed doors. Unexpectedly, Wei Zheng heard the virtuous words of the Liu family''s mother and daughter. Xiao Yunzhou nodded in approval and admiration, "Having such a wife and daughter, a family can indeed prosper for a long time." No wonder Liu Wenchang had made more progresspared to his previous impression of him. With such a wife and daughter constantly supervising and reminding him, Liu Wenchang would likely not make mistakes in his position as a censor. Xiao Yunzhou felt that he had not misjudged the person. His mood was excellent, "Tell the Empress that I will not dine with her tonight." "The little princess had a close call after just being born. I need to pray for the little princess, so tonight I will have a vegetarian meal at Concubine Liu''s ce." Thinking of this, his eyes revealed a hint of viciousness. The Empress had concealed from him the incident where the little princess was almost harmed by a wet nurse. Neither the Empress nor the Noble Consort were truly virtuous and gentle! That wet nurse had already been executed on his orders, but he had not been able to trace the mastermind behind it all. With Chanchangan residing with Concubine Liu, the pce wet nurse had suddenly died of dysentery three days ago at a suburban manor. The trail ended with Chanchangan. "Wei Zheng, continue investigating those who have had contact with Chanchangan. Find out for me!" Whoever dared to harm his celestial being reincarnated as the little princess would face his thunderous wrath! * "Your Majesty, please have some." In the spacious main hall of Qiu Mountain Temple, the Empress smiled bitterly, "Take it away." The emperor was warning her. But she would not be intimidated so easily. She had never relied on the emperor. The emperor had previously favored his cousin, Noble Consort Fu, andter became obsessed with cultivating immortality, neglecting the harem. He had never truly favored or doted on her. What she could rely on was only her son¡ªthe Eldest Prince. "Bai Zhi, go and call my mother." With the upheaval of the earth dragon and the flooding of the Yellow River, the people''s hearts were in turmoil. Taking advantage of this opportunity, she would have the officials submit memorials requesting the emperor to establish the crown prince early, to stabilize the people''s hearts! Among the princes, only her son, the Eldest Prince, excelled in his studies and had a noble status. The other princes were either too young, incapable, or had lowly maternal backgrounds! With Noble Consort being punished and the Third Prince having his hands pped, now was the best time to request the establishment of the crown prince! The Empress narrowed her eyes and plucked a blooming plum blossom. * Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who had ordered the apanying imperial chefs to prepare vegetarian dishes, ended up being obstructed. "Are you saying that the cmities of the earth dragon''s upheaval and the Yellow River''s flooding were Heaven''s wrath because I have not established the crown prince?" Xiao Yunzhou''s face darkened as he looked at Zhou WuXin, the Right Censor of the Censorate. In the neighboring courtyard, Old Madam Liu, Concubine Liu, and Master Liu had already begun their meal. In front of them were bowls of steaming hot and sour noodles topped with fried eggs, the aroma alone enough to make one''s mouth water. "If the emperor is noting, shall we start?" Consort Min, who hade to chat, sat alone on the heated brick bed separated from Master Liu by a screen, already impatient. This was the first time she learned that vegetarian food could also be so fragrant and mouthwatering! Ah, she should have befriended Concubine Liu sooner, she could have lived ten more years! The food was so delicious! Concubine Liu certainly had many great ideas. [Wah, I also want to eat the hot and sour noodles...] ¡¾"How could the Emperor Dad let the kitchen prepare this? I''ve been craving this vor since I was in the pce. Darn it, how could the Fairy keep giving him these kinds of dreams? Argh!"¡¿ Concubine Liu held back augh. It''s because he overheard your innermost thoughts. Xiao Chuchu pouted unhappily, but soon remembered something else that cheered her up. ¡¾"Oh, I remember now, the Emperor Dad will be locked in his room today and scolded by over a dozen officials for not having appointed the Crown Prince yet."¡¿ ¡¾"He''ll be so angry that he won''t be able to eat, hehe, so he''ll havepany, and he won''t get any of this sour and spicy noodles either~"¡¿ Concubine Liu: "......" Master Liu and Old Madam Liu: "......" They had been holding back theirughter with great difficulty. But Concubine Liu''s expression suddenly changed. Appointing a Crown Prince? Would the new Emperor be wary of the Fifth Prince, leading to the Fifth Prince being harmedter? Today, the Fifth Prince did note to her courtyard for a meal, saying he had been invited by the Eldest Prince. Concubine Liu immediately became anxious. Old Madam Liu also knew about this matter, and her expression did not look good either. ¡¾"But the Emperor Dad doesn''t know that the old Zhou, the Right Censor who is leading the remonstration, is himself corrupt!"¡¿ ¡¾"He''s fifty-nine years old, yet he''s eyeing his own granddaughter-inw!"¡¿ "Pfft--" Master Liu burst outughing directly. Chapter 24 Chapter 24 In the small courtyard, Master Liu was directly stunned. Lord Zhou, the lead Imperial Censor admonishing him, brazenly looked upon his own granddaughter-inw? What propriety was this! "Cough cough cough, this sour and spicy noodle, it''s a bit choking, a bit choking..." Master Liu turned red and tried to cover it up. The Old Madam Liu stepped hard on his foot. But Xiao Chuchu in the carriage continued toin. [Lord Zhou, showing no respect for age, took advantage of his grandson''s absence and forced himself on his granddaughter-inw!] The entire room fell silent. Concubine Liu almost stabbed through the jade bowl with her chopsticks! He had actually seeded in his vile act!? [Ah, I remember now, it was after this Winter Sacrifice that it happened!] [Lord Zhou''s grandson was a patrol officer in the capital, responsible for night patrols. He thought that on the night when his grandson went on patrol, he could sneak into his granddaughter-inw''s room and force himself on her, even threatening that if she told his grandson, his grandson would definitely divorce her!] Xiao Chuchu felt angered just thinking about it and clenched her fists. [Later, that poor granddaughter-inw, unable to bear the humiliation, hanged herself, but he imed she died of illness!] [The maidservant who knew the truth was also burned in the throat by Lord Zhou and sold far away.] Master Liu stared wide-eyed. The Old Madam Liu and Concubine Liu''s chests heaved with indignation. This old man hadpletely disregarded thew! He was a beast! [Grandfather, you are now an Imperial Censor in the Censorate, responsible for supervising all officials.] [You must quickly expose this old man''s ugly face and not let him get away with it!] [Wah, when can I speak? Ah, if only Grandfather could hear my heart''s voice.] Master Liu: "!" He was pointed at by his great-granddaughter. The Old Madam Liu''s expression wasplex, but she still refrained from turning to look at the great-granddaughter in the cradle. The main wife Concubine Liu, looking at the appetizing sour and spicy noodles before her, found it difficult to swallow. Lord Zhou''s granddaughter-inw was none other than her friend Minrou before she entered the pce. When her father had just passed the highest imperial examination and became a schr-official, her mother brought her to the capital to attend the autumn celebration. It was then that she met the maiden Minrou, whose father worked at the Hanlin Academy. At that time, the Min family''s official rank was far above the Liu family''s, yet this Miss Min never looked down on her and kept herpany whenever she was alone. Later, when the Liu family followed Old Master Liu to take up an official post away from the capital, they still kept in touch through letters. It was only after she entered the pce that she heard Minrou had married into Lord Zhou''s household that their contact gradually faded away. But it was not out of disdain or alienation, but rather due to the restrictions of their statuses. Concubine Liu felt a tinge of mncholy thinking about it. Ever since she married into the pce, not to mention friends, she could not even see her parents frequently. She could not freely invite people into the pce unless granted permission from the Empress. Even more so for going out to meet people, she could only send out letters asionally. Concubine Liu sighed inwardly, but her sorrow quickly turned to joy upon hearing the baby noises of her little Princess. With her daughter by her side, she finally had something to look forward to day by day. She could now change so many things! Thinking of this, Concubine Liu put down her chopsticks, looked towards Master Liu, pondered for a moment, and spoke. "Father, you have just taken up the post of Imperial Censor. As the saying goes, a new official must take decisive action in three matters. What ns do you have for the first memorial you submit to the Emperor?" Master Liu cleared his throat lightly. He did have ns. But he could not openly say them. Was he supposed to reveal that, in the time it took to eat a bowl of sour and spicy noodles, he had received guidance from his great-granddaughter? To prepare to take down his newly assigned superior official - the Right Chief Censor, the third-highest ranked official in the Censorate! Master Liu smiled faintly at the thought. "Daughter, I have my own considerations. I will n carefully before acting. Don''t worry needlessly." Concubine Liu could not help but frown. The Old Madam Liu also could not resist stepping on his foot again. Master Liu was just too stubborn and bull-headed! Anyone who offered him advice was "worrying needlessly", as if only he was capable! Concubine Liu sighed lightly but did not give up. "Father, have you heard? A few days ago, when the little Princess had just turned a month old, she was almost harmed." Master Liu immediately puffed up his beard and red. "Was it the previous wet nurse? I heard from the Old Madam that she confessed nothing even after interrogation and was sentenced to decapitation." Concubine Liu shook her head with a worried frown. "She insisted on her silence to the end." The mastermind behind was actually Concubine Chen. But that was not what she wanted to tell her father. "Father, I had thought that since I have resided in the Donghua Pce for many years and kept a low profile, no one would harm me. However, in the end, I could not even prevent harm from those around me." "It seems that even in a familiar environment, we cannot afford to let our guard down." "Father, what if I am promoted to the rank of Imperial Consort and have to move to another pce, separating from the familiar Consort Min and Concubine Chen to live with other consorts? Wouldn''t it be even more dangerous?" Upon hearing this, Master Liu also became worried for his daughter. "You must be even more cautious then. Living with new people, you cannot trust them easily and must get to know them first." Concubine Liu nodded. "Father is right." "Then when you, Father, report to the Censorate as the newly appointed Imperial Censor, you should also first get to know the senior officials you will be working with there." Master Liu was taken aback. So his daughter was using her own experience to remind him! He could not help but look at his daughter, who had been quite naive before entering the pce. Now, he saw that the current Concubine Liu was dressed in an exquisiteke-blue silk dress embroidered with hundreds of butterflies, her hair pinned up and adorned with a golden hairpin iid with pearls and kingfisher feathers. It was not an overly formal attire, yet it exuded an extraordinary air. Concubine Liu''s eyes, which used to be gentle andpliant, now shone with a firmness that was previously absent. Master Liu was startled to realize that his daughter had grown up! She had rapidly matured in the pce and was no longer a timid youngdy who simply nodded in agreement. "Father?" "Old Master?" "Yes, daughter, you are right." Master Liu solemnly nodded at his daughter. Stroking his beard, he smiled, "In the past, I saw you as docile andpliant, yet I insisted on teaching you to read and study the ssics. It seems that what I taught you has indeed been useful - you have now be steadfast." Concubine Liu almost lost herposure for a moment. Where did her steadfastnesse from her father''s teachings! It was the little Princess who taught her - one must stand firm for the family to survive! Her father was really thick-skinned, even trying to take credit for the little Princess''s teachings! Concubine Liu supported her forehead. "Alright, good daughter, I will follow your advice. When I take up my new post, I will first observe the internal affairs of the Censorate before investigating other officials!" Master Liu stroked his long beard and smiled,pletely oblivious to his daughter''s strange expression. Originally, he was still pondering how to exin to the Emperor his intention to investigate the household affairs of the Right Chief Censor. Now he had an excuse - it was his daughter Concubine Liu who advised him to do so! [Wah, I didn''t expect that the incident where I was almost harmed by the wet nurse would make Mother realize the importance of caution and remind Grandfather!] [The butterfly effect is indeed powerful.] [I hope Grandfather can soon uncover Lord Zhou''s evil deeds! He must rescue his pitiful granddaughter-inw before his grandson goes on patrol! Let that wicked old man receive his punishment!] Xiao Chuchu listened excitedly, waving her tiny hands. Master Liu nodded inwardly. Originally, he had nned to stay with his daughter a little longer. But now, with this urgent matter of rescuing someone, he could not linger. There were still many things waiting for him to do. "Daughter, you are now a Consort of the pce. I cannot stay here for long." "With me here, even Consort Min can only take her meals in the side hall, leaving your mother to keep youpany. I shall depart first." Master Liu quickly finished therge bowl of sour and spicy noodles. Before leaving, he could not resist embracing and shedding tears over the baby Xiao Chuchu in her cradle. "Little great-granddaughter, ah, who knows when your great-grandfather will be able to see you again." "Rest assured, your great-grandfather will definitely perform his duties as an Imperial Censor well and prepare your dowry for the future." Upon hearing this, Concubine Liu''s eyes also turned red with tears. Xiao Chuchu felt a bit sad too and tried her best to reach out her still-soft little hands towards Master Liu. [Wah, Great-Grandfather...] [The whole Liu family will miss you...] [When I can speak, I will tell the Emperor Father to summon you into the pce...] Master Liu wiped his tears with great difficulty, ced Xiao Chuchu back down reluctantly, and turned back to look at her three times before each step he took. Xiao Chuchu was also unwilling to part and let out a cry. [Great-Grandfather...] Consort Min listened with a heavy heart and quietly retreated through the screened partition to her own quarters. Unexpectedly, she encountered the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou striding into Concubine Liu''s courtyard. Xiao Yunzhou heard the pitiful wails of his beloved daughter from inside the room, and his heart ached. At that moment, he paused in his steps. He thought that he should summon Old Master of Liu Family to the pce more often, to alleviate the longing the Liu family felt for her absence. With this thought in mind, after the autumn ancestral rites were concluded, Xiao Yunzhou returned to the pce. However, after five or six days passed, he had not yet fulfilled his unspoken promise to summon Old Master of Liu Family to the pce again. This was because his precious Xiao Chuchu had fallen ill, and having been away from her grandfather during the mountain rites, she had wept so bitterly that she damaged her voice, returning in a listless state. Xiao Yunzhou was extremely anxious, while Lord Zhou, the Right Chief Censor, along with over twenty other ministers, had submitted five consecutive memorials urging him to establish a Crown Prince. The memorials began with advice, but then descended into vicious insults, using him of neglecting the ancestral realm and themon people by not establishing a Crown Prince. This enraged Xiao Yunzhou to the point of frothing at the mouth! "These insolent scoundrels!" Xiao Yunzhou wished to see no one, only to visit his dispirited, ill daughter each day! Yet this group harassed and berated him daily! On the sixth day, just as Xiao Yunzhou was too angry to even attend court, he received a memorial submitted by Old Master of Liu Family. "Could it be that the Liu family also wishes me to establish a Crown Prince?" After all, Old Master Liu was the grandfather of the Fifth Prince. Recently, Xiao Yunzhou had been avoiding the officials from the princes'' maternal families. But upon opening the memorial with irritation, Xiao Yunzhou was struck dumb. "Lord Zhou, the Right Chief Censor, has proven himself to be of depraved character and disreputable family standing! There is conclusive evidence!" "Your subject implores Your Majesty to arrest Lord Zhou and refer him to the Ministry of Justice for investigation!" Chapter 25 Chapter 25 Right Chief Censor Zhou WuXin had deteriorated private morals and a corrupted family reputation. When Emperor Xiao Yunzhou saw the petition submitted by Old Master of Liu Family, he was first astonished, then overjoyed. Who knew? Zhou WuXin had scolded him for so many days, nearly using the Emperor directly of being a criminal monarch for not establishing a Crown Prince! But since ancient times, a wise ruler could not execute an Imperial Censor for offering remonstrance. Xiao Yunzhou could only seethe in silence. But now, a turning point had arrived. This Zhou WuXin was a corrupt scoundrel with a tarnished family reputation?! The Emperor could retaliate and rebuke this Right Chief Censor! Who knew such sudden joy? "Wei Zheng, immediately summon Liu Wenchang for an audience!" Liu Wenchang was currently only one of the many Imperial Censors in the Censorate, holding the modest rank of a fifth-grade official. Several official ranks lower than the Right Chief Censor. Zhou WuXin could be considered one of Liu Wenchang''s highest superiors. Apart from the Censor-in-Chief who held the third rank, the Left and Right Chief Censors were the highest authorities. Liu Wenchang had just joined the Censorate for a few days when he dared to use Zhou WuXin, acting rashly and improperly. This orded with Xiao Yunzhou''s long-held impression of Old Master of Liu Familycking prudence. Who would take such an confrontational stance against their superior right after starting a new job? But now, Xiao Yunzhou thought Old Master Liu''s shoring was virtuous and beneficial! "Your Majesty, Liu Wenchang is waiting outside." "Quickly summon him in!" Xiao Yunzhou could not wait and actually rose from behind the imperial desk to greet Liu Wenchang with a smile. "Old Liu, the usations in your petition are not false?" Xiao Yunzhou asked the question, but soon felt a twitch in his eye after seeing Old Master Liu''s Imperial Censor robes. Recently, whenever he saw these remonstrating officials in their red robes, his mood soured. His foul mood led to suspicion. Especially when he looked at Old Master Liu''s features, he quickly noticed some resemnce to the Fifth Prince''s ears. Xiao Yunzhou became wary. "What made you decide to investigate Zhou WuXin?" Xiao Yunzhou frowned. Recently, Little Princess had been feeling unwell, and did not mutter much when she saw him, so he could not hear the celestial being''s advice. But he was still the Emperor and had his own judgment on many matters. For example, Zhou WuXin was in the Imperial Noble Consort''s faction. The Imperial Noble Consort''s father was a senior statesman who had served three reigns and was in charge of the imperial examinations many times, thus epting many prot¨¦g¨¦s. Zhou WuXin was one of them. This group had submitted a request for the Emperor to establish a Crown Prince, but in reality they were pressuring him to appoint the Eldest Prince born to the Imperial Noble Consort. The Noble Consort had just been punished, and her Third Prince was also useless and had been disciplined by the Imperial Tutors. While the Second Prince was studious, his mother was merely a pce maid. The Fourth Prince was born to the Jade Consort, but his academic performance was as poor as the Third Prince''s. The Sixth Prince liked to eat and was slow-witted. The Seventh Prince was too young... Looking around, the only one who could rival the Eldest Prince was the Fifth Prince. The Fifth Prince performed well academically and had a steady temperament. So was Old Master of Liu Family investigating Zhou WuXin at this time to undermine Zhou WuXin''s faction that supported the Eldest Prince, and covertly help the Fifth Prince vie for the throne? "Zhou WuXin has recently joined several other Imperial Censors and officials to request that I establish a Crown Prince. Old Liu, could it be that you think Zhou WuXin''s actions are improper?" Xiao Yunzhou gazed at Old Master Liu with a scrutinizing look. To be honest, he currently favored the Fifth Prince and considered him one of the best candidates for Crown Prince. But he was the Emperor and disliked being led by the nose. When and which son to appoint as Crown Prince should be his own decision, not something for officials to meddle in. He especially disliked interference from the princes'' mothers'' ns! Even if it was Old Master Liu, Little Princess''s maternal grandfather. Little Princess was Little Princess, but her grandfather was her grandfather! "Old Liu, tell me, what is your view on Zhou WuXin''s request to establish a Crown Prince?" Xiao Yunzhou stared at Old Master Liu''s forehead, his tone tinged with displeasure. Don''t think that by suppressing Zhou WuXin from the Imperial Noble Consort''s faction, the Eldest Prince would be out of contention and the Fifth Prince could ascend to the throne. The Emperor himself was still in his prime years, just over thirty! Old Master Liu grew up in a vige before bing a schr-official,cking extensive experience. He promptly gave a straightforward response. "In response to Your Majesty, this subject believes that Your Majesty is in the prime of life and need not hurry to establish a Crown Prince." "This old subject is much older than Your Majesty, and although I am the head of the Liu Family, I am also in no rush to appoint my son as the next family head." Old Master Liu''s family were farmers, and he was currently only a fifth-rank official. The Liu Family had no substantial inheritance. His words were exceedingly candid. This time, however, they were precisely what Xiao Yunzhou wanted to hear. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression softened with a hint of a smile, "Old Liu speaks truly, you are still healthy enough to serve me for many more years." Old Master Liu immediately puffed out his chest. But Xiao Yunzhou''s suspicion had not fully dissipated, "Then tell me, how did youe to investigate Right Chief Censor Zhou WuXin?" "Ah, Your Majesty is wise, it was not my own idea," Old Master Liu was prepared. He then recounted how Concubine Liu had suggested it when they ate noodles at Qiu Mountain. Xiao Yunzhou was stunned, it was actually Concubine Liu''s inspiration. She was concerned that after the harm done to her and Little Princess, her father might be bullied in his new position, so she advised her father to first understand the situation in the Censorate. "I see." Xiao Yunzhou nodded repeatedly. Concubine Liu and Little Princess were truly his benefactors! "In your petition, you wrote that he dallied with young girls and coveted married women..." Before Xiao Yunzhou could finish, Old Master Liu interjected. Old Master Liu suddenly knelt, "Your Majesty is wise, this old subject was just about to catch him in the act tonight when summoned by Your Majesty." "Why not have Your Majesty join this old subject?" Xiao Yunzhou: "!" * On a cold winter night in the capital, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, donning a cloak to disguise himself as amoner, rushed out of the pce with Old Master Liu. It was not until the city patrol guards lit theirnterns that the Emperor was stealthily led by Old Master Liu to arge mansion. Seeing the que ''Zhou Mansion,'' Xiao Yunzhou could no longer contain himself. "Old Liu, you did not bring me here to witness Zhou WuXin''s... improper behavior, did you?" What Zhou WuXin did with his wife in his own residence was perfectly normal. In the freezing cold, the Emperor''s words came out in white puffs of vapor as he expressed his bewilderment. Old Master Liu stomped his foot in the snow, "Yes, this is the ce." He signaled to the imperial guards. The well-trained guards immediately scaled the high walls of Zhou Mansion. Old Master Liu gestured, and the head guard carried him over the wall on his back. Xiao Yunzhou''s lips twitched, but he soon donned a dark robe and followed them over the wall. He was also quite skilled in horsemanship and archery, possessing both literary and martial talents. But for the Emperor to sneak into an official''s residence...if exposed... Xiao Yunzhou was tense, yet felt an unprecedented thrill. Soon, they followed the guards turning left and right until they reached a courtyard, crouching in a corner by the wall. As Xiao Yunzhou was about to tell Old Master Liu that if there were no results tonight, he would at least dock a month''s sry, a crying and terrified voice came from inside the room. "Grandfather, you... you... let me go..." "I am your grandson''s wife..." "Let me go..." Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Suddenly, a swift figure darted out from beside him. Old Master Liu charged out ahead of the imperial guards. With full force, he let out a thunderous shout. "Right Chief Censor Zhou WuXin, you are surrounded!" "Release her!" "Come out!" * Still lying in the Eastern Beauty Pce, Little Princess Xiao Chuchu had just nursed and was struggling to wake up after a soft groan. Seeing the time, she was greatly rmed, ¡¾It''s time for Old Zhou tomit his misdeeds! Oh no, help!¡¿ Concubine Liu was roused by her cry. ¡¾Ah, let me see if anyone will rescue her!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu spent ten credits to exchange for a direct broadcast from Zhou Mansion despite the distance. Concubine Liu nervously clutched her handkerchief and pricked up her ears. Chapter 26 Chapter 26 The Zhou Mansion. Zhou WuXin calcted the days - his eldest grandson was on patrol duty in the capital city today, doing street patrols and unable to take leave at will. The next time he would be off was five dayster. If he were toy his hands on his granddaughter-inw, five dayster any marks on her body would have fadedpletely, and his grandson would not discover anything. Zhou WuXin thought to himself as his eyes reddened, gazing down at his beautiful young granddaughter-inw whose arms he had pinned to the headboard of the bed. "You can scream yourself hoarse, but no one wille to rescue you." "It would only let people know about our affair. Do you think Jia Cheng would still want you if he found out?" Zhou WuXin narrowed his clouded yet lust-filled eyes, looking down at his granddaughter-inw''s tear-filled expression. The more she looked like that, the more excited he became. "As long as you don''t say anything and I don''t say anything, Jia Cheng won''t find out, and you can still be the good granddaughter-inw of the Zhou Mansion..." "I will tell your mother-inw to hand over the household affairs to you from now on. You will be in charge of everything in the mansion." Zhou WuXin tempted her. Min Rou reached to pull out the hairpin from her head, but Zhou WuXin had already slipped a drug into the bird''s nest soup he had sent to her after her meal. She was nowpletely powerless and had no strength to stab Zhou WuXin with the hairpin. As soon as she pulled it out, it fell to the ground with a tter. Min Rou closed her eyes in despair, about to bite her tongue andmit suicide, but Zhou WuXin rudely stuffed a handkerchief into her mouth! "Even the gods in heaven cannot save you now!" "Stop struggling!" Min Rou''s tears streamed down her face. She cried out to the heavens, but there was no response. She cried out to the earth, but it remained silent! She regretted that she didn''t even have the strength to knock herself unconscious! She stopped struggling numbly and closed her eyes. But just as she had given up hope and saw no way out, amidst her despair, a righteous and resounding voice came from outside in the quiet night, as if it had been thrown down forcefully! "Right Censor Zhou WuXin, you are surrounded!" "Let her go!" Min Rou''s tears continued to flow, her eyshes trembling. Was the pain too much for her to bear that she was hallucinating? She dared not open her eyes. Even if it was just a delusion of some heavenly immortal descending to save her, she would rather stay in this illusory dream forever than wake up. Min Rou held her breath. Heavenly immortal, take her away. She would rather die right now, die a clean death immediately... "Zhu Female Doctor, quickly go in and examine her." Examine what? To see if she had been defiled or not? Min Rou''s eyshes trembled in pain as she shook all over, her arms helplessly covering her chest. "How outrageous! Zhou WuXin, you are a third-rank Right Censor, yet youmit such evil deeds in your own mansion, knowingly breaking thew!" "Youe out here at once for your Emperor!" The heavenly immortal outside seemed to have changed into someone else, and now imed to be... the Emperor? Min Rou was stunned. Were the immortals she had imagined to save her actually the Emperor? Min Rou smiled bitterly. She really had a wild imagination. An immortal would have been enough, but she had even imagined the reigning Emperor, the Son of Heaven... leaving the pce on this mid-autumn night, insteading to the residence of a lowly official to rescue her, an ordinarymoner woman. What merit did she have to deserve such treatment? If the Emperor wanted to save anyone, it would be themon people whose homes had been swept away by the recent floods, leaving them homeless and disced. What was she inparison? But as Min Rou pondered this, she heard a loud crash. This time, it didn''t seem like something from her imagination. She even felt the footstool next to her bed shake. "Your Majesty... Your Majesty... please allow your servant to exin..." Next to her ear came the wails of her husband''s grandfather - no, that beast worse than a dog, who would not even spare his own granddaughter-inw, begging for mercy! Soon after, there was a heavy thud as someone fell to the ground. Min Rou opened her eyes in a daze, tears streaming down her face, and saw Zhou WuXin sprawled on the floor, having fainted. A foul stench filled the room, and there was a puddle of yellow liquid beneath Zhou WuXin. He had actually wet himself out of fear. And Min Rou, clutching her outer garments that had nearly been torn off, sat up on the bed in shock and saw a well-dressed woman entering from outside. The woman smiled warmly at her, "Miss Min, I am a female doctor from the Tongren Medical Hall. The old master of the Liu Family has requested me toe and treat you. Do not be afraid." Min Rou''s tears welled up, and she suddenly looked up. As the other woman gently held her hand and patted it reassuringly, the tears in Min Rou''s eyes fell instantly. This wasn''t her imagination?! It was real!? A real heavenly immortal hade to save her! Min Rou let out a wail and burst into tears. [Woo, Grandpa is amazing! He took office just three days ago and has already uncovered Zhou WuXin''s disgraceful actions! It''s wonderful that the poor and beautiful Aunt Min has been saved!] In the Donghua Pce. Concubine Liu cradled her bright-eyed little Chu Chu, patting her tiny arm. "Your Highness, this servant sees that the little princess seems to be waking up. Perhaps she has slept too much during the day. Shall this servant take the little princess to the side chamber? Your Highness, you should rest first." The night-duty wet nurse, Zhang Jia, advised. [Ah ah ah, this old scoundrel wet himself in fear when he heard the Emperor''s voice!] [Poor Aunt Min, she thought Grandpa hade to rescue her was just a fantasy.] [Oh, Aunt Min realized it wasn''t a dream - the female doctor was real, and Grandpa and the Emperor Father had trulye to save her! She cried and knelt on the ground. The effects of the drugs hadn''t worn off yet, and she was weak all over, but she still wanted to kowtow to Grandpa and the Emperor Father!] Concubine Liu turned her ear to listen, raising her hand to stop Zhang Jia from taking her daughter away. "Wet nurse, you may rest. You have worked hard today. I will take care of the little princess myself." Zhang Jia was instantly touched to tears, "But how can this be?" "This is my duty." Concubine Liu met Zhang Jia''s grateful expression, her ears turning red. She just wanted to indulge in some gossip. Knowing that Min Rou was safe, she let her desire to hear her daughter''s thoughts and indulge in gossip take over. "Wet nurse, say no more. You may go." After Zhang Jia left, Concubine Liu immediately sat up and perked up her ears. [Woo, Aunt Min said she would treat my paternal grandfather as her life-saving benefactor and respect him like her own parents from now on, taking care of him in his old age!] [And the Emperor Father, Aunt Min said she has no way to repay the court. But she is skilled in embroidery, an expert in the double-sided Shu embroidery. She heard I had just turned a month old, so she wants to make clothes for this little princess!] [Woo, the Emperor Father asked her if she wanted to keep her reputation as a woman intact and cover up this incident. He could find other charges to punish Zhou WuXin.] Concubine Liu held her breath anxiously, clutching the handkerchief in her hand. A woman''s chastity had always been considered extremely important by schrs. If a woman lost her chastity, there were countless examples throughout history of women drowning themselves inkes or being forced by their families to hang themselves. But these people never considered whether the loss of a woman''s chastity was her own fault! Why should the woman have to bear this responsibility! This incident was Zhou WuXin''s crime, wasn''t it? Concubine Liu''s chest heaved. But she knew it was useless to object. She could not stop the gossip and judgment of this world. If only the misogynistic attitudes of the men and conservative schrs of the Tianqi Dynasty could be changed. If only the status of women could be elevated. Concubine Liu fervently wished for this, while also anxiously ncing at her daughter. How would Min Rou respond to the Emperor''s question? She would endure it, right? But soon, Chu Chu smiled and began silentlymenting on the live broadcast in her heart. [Woo, Aunt Min said to ask the Emperor Father to handle this fairly!] [She is not afraid of being criticized for losing her chastity as a woman.] [She is only afraid that this evil person''s crimes will not be made known to all! She is only afraid that this evil person will not receive the punishment he deserves!] [She is only afraid that in the future, there will be more women who suffer, afraid that there will be more evil people in this world who think it''s eptable to take advantage of women just because they dare not speak out!] Concubine Liu was instantly stunned by this earth-shattering inner voice, tears uncontrobly welling up in her eyes. Chu Chu also turned red with excitement in her swaddling clothes. [She said that being rescued by the Emperor and Grandpa was an act of heaven''s mercy, a blessing bestowed upon her. If she were to cower in fear again, it would be an ingratitude towards this blessing.] [So from this night onwards, she is no longer afraid of anything.] [She also wants to divorce her husband! Unless her husband cuts all ties with the Zhou Mansion!] [Woo!] ["Auntie Min Rou, I must call you! You''re too awesome!"] Concubine Liu was so stunned that she couldn''t breathe. Min Rou thought, what about herself as a concubine? In theory, women of the harem should receive more adoration from themon people. What she ate and wore wasrgely paid for by the national treasury, from thebor of themon people. Then how could she repay themon people? Concubine Liu''s eyes flickered. She should learn from Min Rou and help the suffering women of the world! Use her position in the harem to seek a path where women could walk side by side with men! [Ding.] [A grand aspiration detected nearby.] [Side quest activated: When women are strong, the world will be stronger.] [System updating, entering temporary hibernation.] Chu Chu was taken aback. Chapter 27 Chapter 27 Morning court. The officials were all in their ces, Xiao Yunzhou arrived half a cup of teate. Also arrivingte was Master Liu. "Your Majesty, the morning court concerns important state affairs, it concerns the rise and fall of the dynasty, how can one bete so casually!?" Just as Xiao Yunzhou had finished adjusting his dragon robe and sat down on the dragon throne, someone scolded him. His face immediately turned dark. Officials from the Imperial Cab and the Censorate stood up to use Master Liu! "For those who arrivete to morning court, the punishment shall be a month''s sry deduction for minor offenses, and one hundred strokes of the cane for major offenses!" "I plead with Your Majesty, Liu Wenchang, as an Imperial Censor responsible for overseeing the officials, should set a good example himself. His tardiness to morning court should be severely punished!" Liu Wenchang''s face changed. His granddaughter hadn''t mentioned this. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. Anyone with eyes could see that Liu Wenchang arrived at the same time as him. These people were just finding fault! "Last night, I allowed Liu Wenchang to bete for today''s morning court due to official business." Lord Fucha, leading the Imperial Cab, stood among the officials. At this moment, his hands were calmly folded, and he remained silent. But behind him, an Imperial Censor stepped forward, "Today, Your Majesty is alsote to morning court. Could it be that Your Majesty is shielding Master Liu? Or is it because Master Liu''s daughter is Your Majesty''s recent favorite consort?" "How dare you!" Xiao Yunzhou''s anger surged. The first to scold him for beingte were from the Empress''s family. Now, those who insulted him with words were from the Noble Consort''s family. They thought by publicly reprimanding Master Liu, they could thwart the possibility of the Fifth Prince being named the crown prince? Or were they nning to trample on his face as the Emperor, so that they could bring up the matter of naming the crown princeter, leaving him, the Emperor who waste and guilty, unable to object? What a bunch of fools! Xiao Yunzhou coldly snorted, "Bring him forward!" Among the officials, except for Master Liu and the Imperial Guards, the rest looked puzzled. But soon, several officials from the Censorate, including some who had previously petitioned for the naming of the crown prince, looked uneasy. "Where is Lord Zhou?" "Why isn''t the Right Chief Censor at morning court today? Is he ill?" "I yed chess with him yesterday." They all felt a sense of unease. Before long, the sound of metal chains clinking echoed in the court. With a thud, a man with heavy shackles and a foul odor was kicked to his knees by the Imperial Guards! "The guilty official Zhou, Zhou Wuxin, pays respects to Your Majesty..." "!!" "!" The officials were astonished. Especially those who had been on good terms with Zhou Wuxin and had jointly petitioned with him before, looked bewildered. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou snorted, "What have you done, speak!" "I am not human." "I attempted tomit adultery with my granddaughter-inw while my grandson was not at home." "!!!" The officials were shocked, their faces frozen in disbelief. What on earth? What did he say he had done? "I also had illicit rtions with threemon women..." The sound of shock echoed throughout the court. Most of them were high-ranking officials, who had attended morning court for many years, had heard officials arguing, had heard advisors insulting the Emperor, but... for the first time, they heard an Imperial Censor, a high-ranking official of the third rank, admitting in front of the entire court that he had made advances on his granddaughter-inw. He even forcibly tookmon women! How old is Zhou WuXin? He must be almost sixty, right? The officials were so shocked that they forgot about the Emperor beingte. "Humph, why was I and Imperial Censor Liute? It''s because we were investigating the despicable deeds of this scoundrel!" Xiao Yunzhou pped the report handed to him by the eunuch onto the table in front of the officials! "Ministry of Justice, Censorate, Imperial Cab, Ministry of Personnel... What are you all doing?!" "I rely on you to handle things, but it''s no better than relying on the sun to rise from the west!" "I don''t want to bete for the morning court either, but if I don''t go, this dog will continue to wear the third-grade official robes and harm the people!" "Elders, Minister of Personnel, Censorate, just scolded those who werete for me¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou pped his hands on the dragon throne. "What do you think, should I bete today?" "Should Imperial Censor Liu, who is handling this matter with me, bete?" "Ah? Speak up!" Xiao Yunzhou demanded, and the officials below remained silent. Those who were named, those who were appointed to crown the prince, the prime minister of the Imperial Cab, the officials attached to the Noble Consort''s and Empress''s families, all knelt down together! "Your Majesty, please calm down!" The Emperor could see clearly from above, these people were all terrified. They dared not utter a word. Xiao Yunzhou felt great. Today, he realized what it meant to be a happy Emperor. It turns out that sitting on the dragon throne, scolding these lofty schrs with eyes on top of their heads, berating these courtiers who were eager to stand and support a new Emperor, was so satisfying! Xiao Yunzhou took the tea cup handed to him by the eunuch and drank it with satisfaction. Zhou WuXin''s daughter-inw was unwilling to tolerate this matter and would rather forfeit her honor than let Zhou WuXin go unpunished. That suits him well. Xiao Yunzhou immediately ordered, "Ministry of Justice, arrest Zhou WuXin immediately, investigate thoroughly within three days, and present the report! Zhou WuXin has vited thew, punish him severely!" Zhou WuXin fainted in an instant. The officials all hung their heads, never daring to raise them again. They didn''t understand how Zhou WuXin''s misdeeds at home were caught by the Emperor so urately? Not even the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Personnel, or Ministry of Punishments heard any wind of it. Could it be that the Emperor''s Imperial Guards had eyes and ears everywhere? In an instant, every official was nervous, sweat dripping down their backs. Xiao Yunzhou admired their panic one by one. He wouldn''t bother exining to them that this matter wasn''t asplicated as they thought. It was all because Concubine Liu, with her situation in the pce, reminded Liu Wenchang. Liu Wenchang''s ability to handle matters was decent, so he immediately focused on several leading officials in the Censorate. To his surprise, with just one observation, Liu Wenchang found that Zhou WuXin was always punctual for his duties, and his robes carried a faint scent of powder. Xiao Yunzhou recalled Liu Wenchang''s answer to him and was very satisfied. "The position of Right Chief Censor in the Censorate is vacant, and it will be temporarily filled by Deputy Censor-in-chief Ji Chengkang." "Liu Wenchang, you will temporarily assume the position of Deputy Censor-in-chief." Liu Wenchang, who was standing, trembled. Deputy Censor-in-chief, a fourth-grade position! Positions above fifth-grade were all very difficult to attain. He never expected to be promoted so suddenly! All because he listened to his granddaughter''s words! Liu Wenchang swallowed hard. Promotion, turns out it''s this easy! "Starting today, all officials must conduct self-inspections. If any mistakes are made, they must promptly confess to me. Otherwise, if I catch them, they will be strictly punished!" "If there''s nothing else, you may leave the court!" Xiao Yunzhou scolded, then promptly stood up. The hundred officials below fell silent. Xiao Yunzhou felt a wave of relief. Finally, those officials who pressured him to crown a prince, led by Zhou Wuxin, quieted down! First, they should clean up their own mess! "Dismissed¡ª" a eunuch promptly announced. It wasn''t until Xiao Yunzhou''s figure disappeared that the officials began to move slowly. Everyone''s expression wasn''t too good. Xiao Yunzhou might not be the most wise emperor, but he had always been the most easy-going. Since childhood, he had been taught by many court officials, especially several in the Imperial Cab. Xiao Yunzhou was raised with the ideals of a wise ruler¡ªnever to kill those who offer counsel. So, in front of him, the officials were quite bold. But today, they were a little afraid. "It seems like His Majesty... is a bit different." "Shh." Walking at the back, Liu Wenchang was soon invited by the Commander of the Censorate to have a drink. He was ttered, but then a eunuch hurried over. "Lord Liu, please wait!" "Since you made a contributionst night, His Majesty has granted you ess to the harem to dine with Concubine Liu, the Fifth Prince, and the Third Princess." The Commander of the Censorate and the other officials who hadn''t left yet looked at Liu Wenchang withplex gazes. They no longer dared to underestimate him! The Liu family was rising! * Meanwhile, as the old master of the Liu family walked into Concubine Liu''s courtyard, ready to boast about his valor fromst night, he heard the lovely voice of his granddaughter. "Wow, Grandfather''s here~" "You were so majestic yesterday~ You''re truly a great official~" Liu Wenchang straightened his chest, his face flushed. "Oh, stop it." All thanks to his granddaughter''s guidance. "But Grandfather, don''t be too happy too soon." Liu Wenchang: "?" "What''s done by Xiao He can be undone by Xiao He. The Emperor only promoted you because you saved face for him by confronting the officials who advised against crowning a prince." "But, Grandfather, myte father, the Emperor, if he continues to have a short life, will still die as usual in three years. Without a crown prince, the realm will fall into chaos." Liu Wenchang: "!" What, the Emperor is going to die so soon? Even sooner than this old man! "Grandfather, for the stability of the state, the voices of officials seeking a crown prince will never cease. The Emperor will only be more irritable." Liu Wenchang couldn''t help but furrow his brows. If the Emperor has a short life, then a crown prince must be established sooner. Otherwise, when the court falls into chaos, what will happen to the people? What about his daughters and grandchildren in the pce!? No, he must advise the Emperor to establish a crown prince! And it must be a good one! "But actually, there''s a very good solution that can make the Emperor establish a crown prince without getting angry, nor will he be wary of our Liu family~" Liu Wenchang perked up his ears. Concubine Liu embroidered flowers, but her hands moved slower than before. Chapter 28 Chapter 28 The crisis had not been averted. As long as the Liu Family remained the maternal family of the Fifth Prince, the princes would grow up day by day and be entangled in the battle for the throne. It would be hard for Emperor Xiao Yunzhou to say how he would view the Liu Family, his inws. Since ancient times, as emperors gradually grew old and weary, upon seeing the young and vigorous crown prince or princes desiring to inherit the throne, essentially waiting for him to die, they would be increasingly suspicious. Even if a crown prince had been appointed, there were many instances in history of him being demoted or imprisoned. Serving the emperor is like serving a tiger! Master Liu, who had just felt a tinge of pride, and Concubine Liu, who had let out a sigh of relief, suddenly felt their hearts gripped tight once more. [The Emperor Father greatly disliked officials forcing him to appoint a crown prince.] [Whoever brought it up would be on his cklist!] [Grandfather, you almost got demoted and demoted again because of this matter.] The corner of Master Liu''s mouth twitched. Concubine Liu looked at him with concern. Xiao Chuchu muttered in her heart, [But there is actually a good solution that the Emperor Father came up with next year.] [He told the officials that he agreed to appoint a crown prince, but would not announce who it was. He would write the name on a que and hang it behind the council chamber of the Qianqing Pce.] [Only after his demise could the officials go and see the imperial edict behind the que.] Master Liu''s beard trembled slightly. This was indeed an excellent solution that satisfied both sides! It not only resolved the dilemma of having no sessor in the event of the emperor''s sudden death, but also kept the princes and officials from knowing who the heir was. This way, the princes could continue to diligently study day and night. The officials would also not dare to ck off or form cliques carelessly. The emperor was truly quite clever! Master Liu was secretly shocked, and then broke out in a sweat. Although the emperor appeared to be pressured by the cab and remonstrators, his intelligence was by no means inferior to the officials''. The emperor might not necessarily be oblivious to their covert maneuverings! "Your Ladyship, it''s time for the young princess to drink her milk," the wet nurse Zhang Jia gently reminded. This startled Concubine Liu out of her thoughts. Xiao Chuchu, cradled in Master Liu''s arms, suddenly felt ravenously hungry, her little head growing a bit dizzy. Master Liu looked down and saw his granddaughter''s rosy little mouth smacking, and reluctantly handed her over to Zhang Jia. Master Liu watched her being carried to the side chamber, his mind still pondering the emperor''s affairs. "Your Ladyship Concubine Liu, it''s gettingte. This official should take his leave from the pce," Master Liu rose to bid farewell to his daughter. He dared not ponder the Fifth Prince''s chances in the battle for the throne. But... what if? No, he couldn''t continue down that line of thought! Master Liu''s gaze flickered, and he forced himself to recite Buddhist scriptures. But even so, he couldn''t help but recall the warning that histe wife had conveyed to him about Xiao Chuchu''s premonition during a quiet night after returning from Qiu Mountain. ¡ªAfter the new emperor ascends the throne, the Fifth Prince will be the first to be regarded with suspicion and die in battle. Master Liu felt a pang in his heart at the thought. If the emperor were to pass away in three years, wouldn''t this happen within the next ten years at most? How old would the young Fifth Prince be then? He knew that Qi General''s younger son had grown up in the military camp from a young age and died in battle at the mere age of eleven, before reaching adulthood, alongside Qi General when they were surrounded by enemy forces. Just thinking about it pained Master Liu immensely. [Ah! Today is the seventh day of the month. I just remembered that Grandfather will trip over the doorstep and break his right arm, rendering him unable to attend court for a month!] Xiao Chuchu, already carried to the side chamber by Zhang Jia, made this remark from the other side of the wall, just three steps away from the doorstep that Master Liu was standing by. Master Liu''s mind went nk! He was going to fall again? Master Liu had been deeply preupied with thoughts of the Fifth Prince earlier. At this moment, although he heard the words, his body failed to react. Unlike the previous asion when his wife had called for a servant to support him before setting off for the sacrificial rites at Qiu Mountain, there was no one by his side today. Having spent over a decade sitting in the study of the administrative office, Master Liu''s physical agility was far from exceptional. His mind knew to be careful, but his feet slipped on a puddle, and in an instant, his body lost bnce! No matter how much he heard Xiao Chuchu''s warning, he could not control his fall, tumbling face-first towards the doorstep leading to the Donghua Pce. "Wei Zheng! Support Master Liu!" As soon as the words were said, it was already toote. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, having finished half of his paperwork and about to take an afternoon rest before finding his little princess, had just stepped into the Donghua Pce. In an instant, the emperor heard Xiao Chuchu''s premonition. [Grandfather will... fall on the doorstep today...] His little princess had prophesied like a celestial being once again. Immediately after, he saw Master Liu not only fail to pay attention, but also take a spectacr tumble in front of everyone. "Aiya!" Wei Zheng, one of the emperor''s attendants, rushed over to serve as a human cushion for Master Liu, letting out a sickening crunch as his left arm seemed to break. Master Liu''s forehead struck the ground, cutting open a gash that bled profusely. But he was not seriously injured. Concubine Liu, hearing themotion, hurried out in great rm. "Father! Your Majesty¡ª" "No need for formalities. Summon the imperial physician!" Xiao Yunzhou helped her up, then personally assisted Master Liu to his feet, his gentle gaze checking for any injuries to his limbs. His eyes were a whirlwind of emotions... He felt sympathy and concern for Master Liu''s fall, but also a sense of relief once again! Master Liu could not hear Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice. This was a true verification! Xiao Yunzhou waited for the physician to tend to Wei Zheng''s broken arm, and after confirming that Master Liu had only suffered minor abrasions, he generously rewarded the quick-witted Wei Zheng. Seeing Wei Zheng grimacing in pain, Xiao Yunzhou squinted his eyes. Earlier, Master Liu''s fall was no act - had it not been for Wei Zheng''s timely action to cushion the fall with his own body, it would have been Master Liu''s arm that broke instead. Such a situation could not have been faked. The emperor had just arrived, and had not instructed the eunuchs to announce his presence, so Master Liu inside was unaware of his arrival. Furthermore, to reach Concubine Liu''s side chamber, one had to pass through a partition wall. So Master Liu could not have seen him earlier, and had no reason to feign a fall. Xiao Yunzhou was truly convinced this time. Originally, after the morning court earlier, he had been shaken by the depravity of Zhou Wuchen''s actions, and suspected that only Master Liu had uncovered Zhou Wuchen''s misdeeds. After descending from court and calming down, he grew skeptical again. Master Liu''s unique insight, unbeknownst to others, was simr to the emperor hearing Xiao Chuchu''s premonitions. Xiao Yunzhou had grown somewhat doubtful earlier. But now, all doubts were dispelled! Xiao Yunzhou looked at the wounded Master Liu and saw him apologizing profusely to the injured Wei Zheng, a sense of guilt arising within. s, the emperor had been overly suspicious! He should not have been like this - Xiao Chuchu was the reincarnation of a celestial being, bestowed with divine warnings for the Son of Heaven. How could everyone hear her? Xiao Yunzhou felt regretful, he should not have treated his loyal minister in such a manner! After rewarding the devoted Wei Zheng for protecting his sovereign, Xiao Yunzhou asked Master Liu, who was about to take his leave, to stay. "It is I whocked attentiveness," said the emperor. "Last night, Master Liu apanied me in exposing the corrupt practices of Zhou Wuchen. It must have been extremely tiring, and you have not rested," said Xiao Yunzhou. "That is why you were fatigued earlier and took that fall. s, it is all my fault. I should have let you return home to rest." Master Liu was greatly rmed. Even Concubine Liu could not help but raise her eyebrows. The emperor''s attitude was so gracious, even acknowledging his mistake? But ording to Xiao Chuchu''s words, even withoutst night''s incident, her grandfather would still have tripped over the doorstep at home... Yet Xiao Yunzhou insisted warmly, "You may rest in my Chonghua Pce study." Master Liu and Concubine Liu were utterly astonished. "There is a long couch in my study where you can take a nap. I will have the physiciane again to examine your injuries before the evening meal." Wait, how did a simple stumble turn him into the emperor''s favorite minister? Even allowing him to rest in the emperor''s own study? Master Liu was dumbfounded. The emperor worked while he slept? Besides, the wound on his forehead was hardly serious - it would heal in no time if he remained for a while longer! Master Liu was overwhelmed by the emperor''s favor, but could not refuse his good intentions. After three rounds of polite refusals, he finally acquiesced, giving his daughter a reassuring nce before leaving. But unexpectedly, as soon as the emperor stepped into the Chonghua Pce study and sat down at the desk to review documents, he pondered for a moment before posing a question as the eunuch prepared a bed for Master Liu. "Ah. Master Liu, do you think I should appoint a crown prince?" Master Liu: "!!!" Oh my... How unfortunate! He knew the answer to this question in advance! Chapter 29 Chapter 29 In the Chonghua Pce, Xiao Yunzhou could not help but ask Liu the Elder, "What do you think about those people demanding that I establish a Crown Prince?" Not long after Xiao Yunzhou left the morning court session, he was again summoned by five ministers of the Imperial Cab, the Minister of Rites, and the Imperial Astronomical Bureau. As one batch of petitioners left in disappointment, another arose to take their ce. Xiao Yunzhou was very troubled. In truth, he knew that he could not avoid this nagging issue. As long as he did not establish a Crown Prince, they would not leave him in peace for even a few days! Xiao Yunzhou''s happiness from the morning court sessionsted only for a short while before he became gloomy again. He currently had a favorable impression of Liu the Elder, so he thought to ask for his opinion. "Liu the Elder, what do you think should be done?" Liu the Elder cleared his throat lightly. In his heart, he was grateful for the reminder from Little Princess, though his face did not show the joy he felt within. He even tried to empathize with the situation. "Well, if I were in your position..." Xiao Yunzhou stared at him intently. Liu the Elder pondered and said, "If my wife, my son, and the few servants in my household who sweep the floors and cook were to pester me every day to appoint the next head of the family, I would truly want to beat them!" Xiao Yunzhou: "!" He never could have expected such a response. For a moment, he could not help butugh heartily, "Liu the Elder, you truly have a sense of humor." In Liu the Elder''s heart, he chuckled, thinking it was thanks to the reminder from Little Princess that he knew emperors were always suspicious of those around them. This was not the fault of the person, but the burden of the imperial throne! The ''son-inw'' before him was the Emperor! He could never forget that. "If servants were to overstep their bounds and advise me on such matters, I would certainly feel they had overstepped their authority. But how could they disobey me, the head of the household?" Liu the Elder considered as he spoke. "When I was in the vige before, my ancestors were all farmers, and we all obeyed the n leader. When the n leader was alive, he never appointed a sessor." Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed. Atst, he heard the words he wanted to hear. Liu the Elder understood him! "However," Liu the Elder raised his eyes and nced furtively at the Emperor before making a clever turn, "the court ministers are urging Your Majesty to establish a Crown Prince out of their own considerations." Xiao Yunzhou immediately frowned. Liu the Elder coughed lightly. Did the Emperor only want to hear pleasing words? That would not do. Three yearster, when he passed away, what would be of his own granddaughter, grandson, and daughter? He had to persuade the Emperor as well, to establish a wise and virtuous Crown Prince early on. Even if his own Little Princess could not be the Emperor, they needed a new ruler who was wise, virtuous, and tolerant. "Your Majesty, the matter of imperial session is crucial to the well-being of the nation and its people, unlike the ordinary families of myself or themoners." After stroking the Emperor''s ego earlier, the Elder of the Liu family now spoke the truth. "After leaving court, this old minister pondered the matter. Your Majesty was fortunate to escape disaster during the recent rebellion, but who knows what the future holds? The nation cannot be without a ruler for even a day." Xiao Yunzhou''s expression darkened! But after taking a deep breath, he did not rebut. He knew that Liu the Elder was speaking a hard truth. However, he did not want to establish a Crown Prince too early because he himself had been made Crown Prince at the age of six, and from that day on, he had never truly experienced happiness. The pressure of session, the expectations of the former emperor, and the demands of the officials all deprived him of the carefree childhood enjoyed by the sons ofmoners. He did not want his own children to suffer the same fate. Moreover, being made Crown Prince at such a young age led to his imperial brothers wasting their lives, neglecting their studies in archery, the ssics, and statecraft. In the past, he had tolerated these idle princes living off the imperial family. But now, after the warning from his daughter, he knew that the Tianqi Dynasty declined rapidly after his ''death''. His imperial brothers, the princes ruling their fiefdoms, werepletely ignorant and easily deceived by the Noble Consort, lured to the capital and massacred... This was something he could not ept! If the former emperor had not established him as Crown Prince so early, perhaps his brothers would not have wasted their lives! Perhaps after his ''death'', his brothers could have stood up and taken charge! Therefore, Xiao Yunzhou had made up his mind that he would absolutely not establish a Crown Prince so early! Before his sons had grown up, he would make sure they studied civil and military affairs diligently, learning with all their might! Later, one could be the Emperor, while the others could serve as outstanding ministers supporting him throughout the ages. With the brothers working together, theirbined strength would be unbreakable, ensuring the survival of the dynasty! However, Xiao Yunzhou knew that even if he exined this to the ministers, they would not ept it. Those old men were too conservative and did not know the danger foretold by Little Princess. s. "Your Majesty," seeing the Emperor''s troubled expression, Liu the Elder immediately bowed and said, "This minister has a suggestion, though I do not know if I should voice it." Xiao Yunzhou looked puzzled, "Liu the Elder, you may speak freely." Liu the Elder then shamelessly proceeded. "The ministers simply want to have a chosen sessor to ensure the stability of the imperial session. But to make such an early decision when Your Majesty is still young and the princes are all children, there are bound to be many uncertainties in the future." Xiao Yunzhou nodded in agreement. That was correct, it was a dilemma. "Then, Your Majesty, why not write down the name of the prince you currently favor most and seal it in a silk scroll to be hung in your study?" Xiao Yunzhou: "?! Please exin further!" Liu the Elder then fluently recited the standard answer he had prepared in advance. "After Your Majesty writes the name and seals it, inform the officials that they can open it a centuryter to reveal the chosen sessor." "In this way, you will have already established a Crown Prince." "If something unexpected urs, there will be a sessor to the throne, and they need not worry about the nation''s stability." "However, if Your Majesty lives a long and healthy life, the silk scroll need never be opened, and the name of the new ruler will not be revealed." "And if the prince you initially favored goes astray and proves unworthy of the great responsibility, Your Majesty can always rece the name in the silk scroll with another." "Thus, Your Majesty will have reassured the nation and the people, while also avoiding the drawbacks of establishing a Crown Prince too early and discouraging the princes from self-improvement." Liu the Elder finished speaking in one breath. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up with delight, "Excellent! Most excellent!" "How did I not think of this myself?" Liu the Elder''s whiskers twitched. This was actually a method the Emperor himself would think of a yearter! He was ashamed, ashamed! But for the sake of the people, for the sake of his grandson and granddaughter, he would simply borrow the Emperor''s own future idea in advance! "Liu the Elder, I never realized before that you possess such great wisdom." "Very good, we shall proceed as you have suggested." "With Liu the Elder''s counsel, truly you are a blessing to the nation! You have resolved my urgent dilemma." "This method is wless and seamless!" Xiao Yunzhou heaped praise without restraint. There was no denying that every step of Liu the Elder''s proposal aligned perfectly with his own needs and considerations. It resolved all his problems withplete satisfaction and ease. How tremendously pleasing! Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu the Elder with an intensity of warmth and gratitude like never before. "Among all the Imperial Cab, the Minister of Rites, and the Grand Censorate, not one could conceive of such a solution. They only stubbornly demand that I establish a Crown Prince, never considering my perspective or the future of the princes." "Only Liu the Elder has truly considered the interests of myself and the long-term well-being of this nation!" Liu the Elder could not help but blush. It was all thanks to the reminder from his granddaughter, otherwise he would not have thought of this solution either. s. "Summon someone! Award Liu the Elder a jade ru-yi scepter, a nine-colored peony in a pot, and three potted nts of pine, bamboo, and coral branches." Liu the Elder: "!" Here it came again. More rewards! Liu the Elder rested in the Emperor''s study but could not sleep at all. In his good mood, Xiao Yunzhou had generously allowed him to personally select the nine-colored peony. "That is a tribute recently presented by the Liao King, blossoming nine colors in winter, a true auspicious omen." "I shall share it with Liu the Elder." A winter peony was worth over a hundred taels of silver. This reward,bined with the others, amounted to well over a thousand taels. After leaving the study, Liu the Elder was personally escorted by the injured Wei Zheng to the heated greenhouse of the South Imperial Garden to choose the peony. "Sir Wei, thanks to you for saving me. You should go rest now; let others take me there instead." Liu the Elder was grateful. "It''s no trouble. My injury is just to the arm, not the legs. I am honored to serve the Emperor and protect Liu the Elder from harm." Wei Zheng smiled warmly, as if his broken bone was a promotion rather than an injury. He asked Liu the Elder to wait outside the garden, "Inside the South Imperial Garden, there may be consorts strolling. I shall go in first and clear the area, Sir Liu, please wait here." "How about this, Wei Zheng, you select a pot for me, so I don''t have to enter in person." "That won''t do. The nine-colored peonies are a precious gift from the Liao King in Xuantong. Each pot has its unique nine colors, cultivated over a decade, priceless beyond measure." "His Majesty has spoken, he wants Sir Liu to choose in person." Liu the Elder had to obey, letting out a long sigh. But soon, he saw in the distance his daughter Concubine Liu, apanied by Little Princess''s wet nurse, and the Fifth Prince returning from studies, all heading towards the South Imperial Garden. Liu the Elder''s eyes lit up with a smile. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince, delighted, quickened their pace to meet him. "I greet you, Fifth Prince, Concubine Liu." "Father." "Grandfather!" The joyous family reunion was about to begin when suddenly their expressions froze. [Nine-colored peonies? The Liao King, my thrifty Emperor father''s uncle?] [Woof! I remember now, barely a hundred days after the nine-colored peonies were tributed, the Liao King rebelled, attacking the capital gates!] The Fifth Prince, Concubine Liu: "!" Liu the Elder: "!" Chapter 30 Chapter 30 The South Imperial Garden. The entire Liu family felt as if they had fallen into a frigidke, their bodies frozen to the bone. [The Liao King, uncle of my foolish Emperor father, demanded urgent delivery in the depth of winter from hundreds of miles away,mandeering postal ry stations and military roads to send an auspicious gift¡ªa nine-colored peony blooming in winter.] [He''s clearly taking the opportunity to inspect local military defenses!] Master Liu: [gasping] He nearly choked on his breath. What? So this was the real purpose behind the nine-colored peony! Concubine Liu couldn''t help but steady the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian''s little shoulders to prevent herself from stumbling. The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian gritted his teeth as well. No ce for peaceful slumber beside the imperial bedchamber! The Liao King was audacious indeed! Using the pretext of presenting flowers to openly prepare for rebellion? His Majesty the Emperor had been preupied with managing river works and caring for refugees, his mind clouded by the debate over establishing the crown prince. Did His Majesty not realize this at all? [The leader of the Liao King''s escort for the nine-colored peony paid a visit to someone upon entering the capital¡ªwhat was his name again? It seemed to be the Eminent Cavalry General... This man had served as the Yanmen Guard Post''s captain a decade ago under the Liao King, who had saved his life.] [Grateful for this life debt from over ten years ago, especially since few survived the battle at Yanmen Pass, no one knew that this Eminent Cavalry General had been loyal to the Liao King all along!] [When the Liao King rebelled, the Ministry of War still rmended that His Majesty dispatch this Eminent Cavalry General to lead 100,000 troops to attack the Liao King. The oue was predictable: not only did he fail to halt the rebels in Shu, but the 100,000 troops were also turned by the Liao King and joined his forces!] Xiao Chuchu recalled the events, unaware that those around her had turned pale. The Fifth Prince''s breathing grew rapid. Master Liu and Concubine Liu held their breaths, afraid to miss a single word from Xiao Chuchu. [s, I don''t remember this general''s name.] [But after receiving the Liao King''s message, he conspired with one of His Majesty''s eunuch scribes.] [This eunuch sold him and the Liao King much inside pce information.] [It seems the Xuantong Prefectural Governors returning to the capital for their year-end evaluations were also involved in this scheme.] [I''m trying to recall... Ah yes, it was the day all officials entered the pce for the Awarding Gold Festival that they secretly plotted!] The Awarding Gold Festival was merely two days away! Master Liu''s eyes lit up¡ªthere was still a chance to stop them! But then his beard bristled in anger. They dared choose this very day? To conspire about rebellion right under the Emperor''s nose, on the day he would host all officials for a banquet? He was truly in awe of their audacity. Had he not heard Xiao Chuchu''s revtion, who could have imagined such a scheme? "Ahem, well, Concubine, Fifth Prince, with the uing new year and these unstable times, both of you must be vignt within the pce. Do not wander about with little Princess Chuchu unless it is necessary." Master Liu gave his daughter, grandson, and their party aplex look. His gaze finally rested on the rosy cheeks of the bundled infant Xiao Chuchu. What if the rebels seeded and stormed the pce, harming his precious great-granddaughter, grandson, and daughter? The consequences would be unthinkable! "You must heed my words, understood?" Master Liu feared his young grandson and newly-appointed daughter might not take him seriously. He furrowed his brows in thought, then said, "Your grandmother went to the temple yesterday and drew an ominous fortune that warned of a ''cmity of bloodshed.'' She was deeply rmed and sought guidance from a prestigious monk, who advised that one should ''remain still and avoid action'' until a significant event has passed or the arrival of spring next year to reverse the misfortune." The Fifth Prince and Concubine Liu were startled. They had intended to find a way to ensure Master Liu, unable to hear Xiao Chuchu''s revtions, would also exercise caution in theing days! If rebels were to attack the capital gates, their civilian household would be defenseless against being overrun... Concubine Liu promptly nodded, dabbing her slightly paleplexion with a handkerchief to restore its rosy hue. "Father, the same goes for you as well. I had a terrible dreamst night, so please avoid crowded ces for now." The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian nodded repeatedly in agreement. Yet his expression remained grave. Even if they managed to evade the rebels, what of the multitudes of unarmed civilians out there? The Liao King''s rebellion would bring untold casualties and suffering to the popce along his path of conquest! His concerns deepened. Xiao Chuchumented sadly, [s, this rebellion by the Liao King resulted in over 40,000 casualties among the capital''s three elite army divisions alone!] The Fifth Prince''s face turned ashen. The capital''s three elite divisions were distinct from others stationed in Hangzhou and the surrounding Zhejiang region. These were the Empire''s finest troops! To suffer 40,000 casualties meant they had lost over half their strength. Who knew how long it would take to recruit and train recements of equal caliber? [After this battle, several border tribes learned of our severely depleted forces and continuously dispatched cavalry to harass and attack our fortified towns along the frontier.] [The people suffered, the soldiers suffered, but most troubling was that our dynasty never regained its strength from this blow, leading to its eventual decline!] The Fifth Prince clenched his fists resolutely. Master Liu could no longer bear to listen. From what he had heard, it seemed the Tianqi Dynasty was doomed! "Master Liu, please enter the garden and make your selection. We have a total of three pots of the nine-colored peony housed in the warm chambers." "Feel free to choose whichever you prefer." Wei Zheng emerged with a bandaged head, having cleared the concubines from the garden to make way. "Whichever pot you select, my servants will escort it directly to your residence." "We''ll also send three craftsmen and one gardener to tend to this auspicious winter-blooming peony at your manor." Oh dear! Master Liu''s mouth twitched uncontrobly. Auspicious? How? This peony was clearly an omen of national ruin, a portent of doom! Yet they were dispatching so many attendants for it! Master Liu''s expression betrayed his resistance, but he restrained himself as he bid farewell to his daughter and the Fifth Prince. "Remember my words, and I shall heed yours as well¡ªlet us limit our outings." Pinching his nose, he entered to select the flowers. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince watched him depart with furrowed brows. That night, neither could sleep. Xiao Chuchu, unable to control her infant needs, fell asleep after nursing. Meanwhile, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou did not visit little Princess Chuchu that evening. He secluded himself in his study, agonizing over which prince should seed him. To maintain fairness and impartiality, he avoided seeing Concubine Liu and Princess Chuchu, lest his affection for the Fifth Prince cloud his judgment. Thus, the Fifth Prince spent the night in Concubine Liu''s wing at the side pavilion. "Mother, might we find an opportunity to bring Sister over and remind Father?" The Fifth Prince frowned with worry. Concubine Liu pondered and nodded. "Yes, we must do so." If the Emperor remained unaware, failing to prepare sooner would leave the popce disced and countless families shattered. "If he does note tomorrow, I shall have the nursemaid bring Princess Chuchu to him." However, the following day brought no such chance. Master Liu had entered the pce again, visiting the Chonghua Pce where the Emperor resided for half a hour in his study. Not long after, a message arrived. "Concubine, His Majesty has instructed this servant to inform you that due to the unstable circumstances, you and the Fifth Prince must not take Princess Chuchu beyond the few familiar ces within the pce grounds." Receiving this notice, Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince were taken aback. The Emperor knew? Wait, did her father/grandfather go and advise the Emperor? Chapter 31 Chapter 31 Waking up early in the morning, Xiao Chuchu, who had been entertaining her brother by ying a handheld drum, twisted her little neck from the bed to see Wei Zheng with a wooden splint on his right arm. "Princess, Fifth Prince, the Emperor says you should avoid leaving the pce for the next few days if possible, as it''s very chaotic outside." Xiao Chuchu blinked her eyes, [What happened that made the Emperor think it''s so chaotic recently?] "Oh, Master Liu just finished a meeting with the Emperor at the Chonghua Pce. The Emperor wants you to take the Fifth Prince and the little princess to have a meal there." Concubine Liu immediately expressed her gratitude, "How is Sergeant Wei''s arm injury? Would you like to have some tea here before we go?" "I''m honored to serve you," Wei Zheng smiled. "No need for tea. Just get ready quickly, Princess, and go to the Emperor. Don''t keep him waiting." So urgent? Wei Zheng excused himself first, exchanging a nce with the Fifth Prince. Most likely, the Emperor wanted to hear the little princess''s thoughts. They were also eager to know what Concubine Liu''s father had discussed with the Emperor during his visit to the pce. Did the Emperor find out about the Liao King''s affairs? Without hesitation, Concubine Liu swiftly instructed Zhang Jia Wet Nurse, "Check the little princess''s diaper and feed her some milk, then we''ll head over." In just the time it took to burn one incense stick, Xiao Chuchu had finished eating and drinking, and was burped by the wet nurse. Energetic and lively, she was carried by Concubine Liu, apanied by the Fifth Prince, to the Chonghua Pce. As soon as they entered the main hall, they were greeted by Wei Zheng and led to a side room. A dining table had already been set up there, and Wei Zheng smiled, about to take Xiao Chuchu away. "The Emperor misses the little princess, so he wants to see her before the meal." Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince felt a sudden pang in their hearts. Something big must have happened. The Emperor was so impatient that he used the excuse of having a meal with them, but couldn''t even wait until lunchtime to hear the little princess''s thoughts. "Don''t worry, Princess, I''ll take good care of the little princess," Wei Zheng said carefully as he took Xiao Chuchu away. The side room was just two chambers away from the main hall of the Chonghua Pce. The little princess''s voice soon carried over clearly. [Did my grandfather suddenly gain the Emperor''s favor?] [Wow, is my grandfather well-suited to be an Imperial Censor and offer advice?] Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince exchanged a nce, both finding seats near the door in the side room. They silently picked up their tea cups and held their breaths, listening intently. In the main hall, when Xiao Yunzhou saw his daughter arriving and heard her soft, tender voice, he beamed with delight. Not only was the little princess incredibly talented, but she was also adorable and blessed, making him happier than his sons. [I didn''t expect that after my Emperor father restored his power, he would recognize and utilize talents so well.] [He''s put my grandfather in the perfect position! Wonderful!] His daughter had just arrived and already praised him profusely. The smile on Xiao Yunzhou''s face was almost impossible to conceal. Seeing this smile, Master Liu, seated opposite the dragon throne, felt his beard quiver. It seemed the Emperor could... also hear his granddaughter''s thoughts! No wonder he wanted to hold the little princess! Master Liu''s back was sweating. He definitely couldn''t let anything slip and allow the Emperor to notice anything unusual. But his granddaughter was so well-behaved, praising her grandfather as soon as she arrived. Master Liu lowered his head, concealing the corners of his mouth and pretending not to dare to look directly at the Emperor. However, Xiao Yunzhou soon cleared his throat lightly, "Master Liu, please continue. How did you discover the abnormality of the Nine-Colored Peony?" The eunuch who had brought the little princess, Wei Zheng, guarded the pce doors himself. The maids and young eunuchs who served tea were all dismissed. The guards also stood in the corridors, out of earshot of the Emperor''s conversation. Master Liu pretended not to know the reason why the Emperor was holding the little princess and exined in an orderly manner. "Your Majesty, after I received the Nine-Colored Peony, I was overjoyed and admired it day and night. Who would have thought I would discover something amiss?" The Emperor raised his eyebrow, "Oh?" "This Nine-Colored Peony is not a heavenly blessing at all. Its nine petals and nine colors were created by artificial dyes." The Emperor''s mouth twitched. The Liao King was actually a fraud? Fooling him, the Emperor, like this! "So Master Liu suspected that the Liao King, who presented the flower, had some ulterior motive?" Of course, Master Liu couldn''t reveal that it was his granddaughter who had given him the insight. He had already prepared his exnation at home. "Last year, one of my servants gave me three baskets of extrarge and salty salted duck eggs from my hometown." "Ahem." The Emperor almostughed. Concubine Liu''s father always used trivial examples from his own family whenever he offered advice. It was evident he wasn''t from a schrly family. But that''s what made it genuine! The Emperor even wanted to treat Master Liu like a member of his own family. "At first, I thought he had given them to me unconditionally, but the next day, he scolded me." "He said that since he had served in the Liu household for many years, he should get a raise in his monthly allowance." Master Liu had discussed with his wife the previous day on how to persuade the Emperor, and now he spoke fluently. "That''s when I realized that if someone who had never shown you any special attention before suddenly does so, they most likely have ulterior motives." Pfft. The Emperor almost burst outughing. But then he frowned, realizing that was exactly what the Liao King had done! Thinking that the other party might be plotting a rebellion, the Emperor couldn''tugh anymore, as it was a grave matter that kept him from eating and sleeping peacefully. "So when I saw that the Nine-Colored Peony presented by the Liao King was not a natural phenomenon, I couldn''t help but have doubts." "Unsolicited favors oftene with ill intentions!" Master Liu put on a pensive expression. Even Xiao Chuchu, being held by Xiao Yunzhou, was drawn into his exnation, listening intently. [And then what happened? And then what?] [Ah, did my grandfather then discover the Liao King''s n to rebel?] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed abruptly. Master Liu''s conjecture was true! Even his daughter said so, which meant the Liao King really was plotting a rebellion! It wasn''t just Master Liu overthinking things! Xiao Chuchu was also excited, [If we can discover the Liao King''s plot in advance, we''ll have a chance to reduce the casualties of over forty thousand soldiers!] Xiao Yunzhou nearly fainted. Forty thousand casualties? Xiao Chuchu tilted her little neck in anticipation, looking at Master Liu, [Wow, grandfather, did you find out? You must tell my Emperor father quickly! If you inform my Emperor father, my grandfather, you''ll be a great hero who saved countless innocent lives! You''re so brilliant!] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered. Indeed, the one who discovered this matter, Master Liu, would be a great hero! He looked at Master Liu with deep respect, "Master Liu, please continue." The Emperor was now addressing him as "you" instead of the more formal "you"?! Master Liu could barely maintain hisposure. "Last night, I pondered in my study for a long time because I couldn''t understand." Master Liu hurried to continue, as his granddaughter was eagerly waiting to hear him speak. "What does the Liao King seek? If there is no heavenly blessing, why would he create one?" "If he were an ordinary official worried about evaluations and seeking Your Majesty''s favor, it would be understandable." "But he is already the prestigious Liao King bestowed by thete Emperor!" "He enjoys the court''s provisions and rules over the prosperous Xiangcheng fief." "Hecks neither gold nor silver, nor three thousand guards, nornds and fortresses. It is said he has also taken many beautiful women as consorts." "The Liao King has already received the highest honors and rewards!" "I really can''t figure out what else he could possibly ask of Your Majesty!" As a king ruling over a fief with troops andnds, what more could he desire? Above a king, there was only the dragon throne beneath the Emperor''s own bottom! Xiao Yunzhou''s blood boiled as he listened, and he nearly burst out cursing. The Liao King was truly his good uncle! Coveting his nephew''s dragon throne, why didn''t he just fight thete Emperor for it?! Master Liu, seeing the Emperor''s expression, continued, "Then I investigated further." "And what I discovered was shocking." "This artificially created Nine-Colored Peony miracle traveled through one hundred and three post stations and military outposts from the Liao King''s fief." "That treacherous scoundrel!" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but curse despite having already known about the Liao King''s rebellion. This was a tant attempt to survey the court''s military defenses! Master Liu finished speaking all at once, ignoring the Emperor. "Your subject has investigated this matter thoroughly and became highly rmed. Not long after, I noticed the leader of the escort guards who apanied the Peony to the capital, and even had an audience with the Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen who is residing in the capital." He spoke up to this point and did not continue any further. Because Xiao Chuchu had already let out a wail upon hearing the familiar name ''Zhang Chen'', triggering more vivid memories. [Ah, yes, it''s him, Zhang Chen! I remember now! During the Awarding Gold Festival, after the pce banquet, Zhang Chen pretended to be drunk and went to the dressing room. He feigned vomiting on Zheng Eunuch, the Attending Secretary by the Emperor Father''s side.] [Zheng Eunuch then took Zhang Chen, who had also soiled his clothes, to Zhang Chen''s residence to change.] [In the process, they exchanged messages. They also encountered the Prefect, Provincial Governor along the way.] [Ah, yes, their meeting ce was along the small path beside the Qianqing Pce which was still undergoing renovation.] Master Liu: "!" Even the location was revealed! His granddaughter''s recollection this time was even more detailed than the previous time. "Master Liu, Your Majesty is fortunate to have you!" Xiao Yunzhou listened to his daughter''s words, and his back became slightly damp. He looked at Master Liu with not only respect, but also a hint of reliance in his eyes. Father-inw of Concubine Liu was so wise, outperforming even the fairy''s prophecy by just a little. If it weren''t for the young pcedy, Master Liu would have noticed the irregrities. Inparison, the other officials were simply eating their fill without working! "This empire, Master Liu, Your Majesty feels at ease with you here!" Xiao Yunzhou wholeheartedly helped Master Liu to a seat. Master Liu: "......" Ah, this. His old face even became flushed. He truly had the ability, didn''t he! How did he give birth to such a remarkable granddaughter... No, how did his daughter give birth to such a remarkable granddaughter! Chapter 32 Chapter 32 Xiao Chuchu found herself in the Emperor''s embrace, listening to his praise of her paternal grandfather, but her mind seemed elsewhere. [Strange, originally my paternal grandfather didn''t notice the rebellion of the Liao King.] The Old Master of the Liu Family felt a chill down his spine for a moment. Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. But soon Xiao Chuchu chuckled, [Who would''ve thought, the Emperor suddenly had the idea to gift my paternal grandfather a basin of nine-colored peonies.] [For generations, the Liu family has been tilling thend, tending to what grows from it. When my paternal grandfather received the peonies, he didn''t just admire them, he immediately began studying how they could have nine petals and nine colors.] [So, every action has its consequence!] [Thew of cause and effect can change at any moment. This time, thanks to the Emperor''s gift of flowers to my paternal grandfather, he was rewarded! And he didn''t forget the tradition of our ancestors tending to the crops in the fields.] Xiao Yunzhou and Old Master Liu both smiled at the same time. They felt incredibly satisfied! ¡ªAll thanks to my wisdom! ¡ªAll thanks to my understanding of flowers and nts! Both of them were very pleased with the praise they received from Xiao Chuchu, and their moods lightened. "Old Master Liu, for this year''s Awarding Gold Festival banquet, you should enter the pce early. I have something to entrust you with," Xiao Yunzhou quickly got back to the main topic. The Old Master of the Liu Family felt a shock. Indeed, the Emperor could also hear the thoughts of the little princess! He would have to be more careful in the future. No more casual deceit or ttery, but genuine advice to the Emperor. With these thoughts in mind, he took his leave, only to unexpectedly encounter Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince in the side hall. "Mother, Your Highness the Fifth Prince, you''re also here?" Old Master Liu was surprised. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince both coughed lightly. They had been eavesdropping for a while, and had been pondering whether the Old Master of the Liu Family could also hear the thoughts of the little princess. But after hearing the words of the little princess, they dismissed the idea. It turned out that because of the Liu family''s involvement with farming, they discovered the unusual peonies. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince now understood, and Old Master Liu had stumbled upon good luck once again, seizing the opportunity and showing great insight! It served him right to be praised by the Emperor this time. "Father, you''ve worked hard." "Paternal grandfather, I''ll learn from you in the future." Old Master Liu blushed for a moment. What''s wrong? What happened? Lunchtime. Xiao Yunzhou joined them for lunch, but they didn''t discuss what would happen at the Awarding Gold Festival, nor did they mention the matter of the Liao King and others again. Since he didn''t mention it, Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince pretended not to know. During the meal, they chatted about the little princess''s daily routine¡ªhow many times she ate, how many times she urinated, whether the color and amount were normal, and how well she slept. The meal passed smoothly and harmoniously. "Channi, you''ll continue to stay in the side hall of Donghua Pce for now." "When springes after the new year, I''ll arrange a new main pce position for you." With her rank, she could be the mistress of a pce, which was much better than being attached to Consort Min and only being able to stay in a side hall. After all, it meant moving to a bigger house. As the mistress of a pce, she wouldn''t have to worry about offending others in Donghua Pce with her words. Concubine Liu smiled and epted, "Thank you, Your Majesty." The Fifth Prince also smiled. They knew that the main pce allocated to them this time would definitely not be inferior, and might even be better than Donghua Pce. As long as the Awarding Gold Festival proved that the Old Master of the Liu Family''s advice about the Liao King''s intention to rebel was true, the Emperor would reward him generously. The Liu family would never be the same again! * Soon, the day of the Awarding Gold Festival arrived. "Liu Concubine, I really can''t bear to see you move away after the new year," Consort Min sighed,paring a piece of emerald green Shu brocade with Liu Concubine. She would miss having someone to eat meat with! Ah, only Liu Concubine would encourage her to eat meat, saying that being plump and healthy is good. In just a short ten days, Consort Min felt like she had developed decades-long friendship with Liu Concubine. She couldn''t bear the thought of parting ways, what should she do? As Consort Min spoke, her eyes reddened, "But your living quarters in my side hall are too small. Besides, now you are on the same level as me, there''s no reason for you to continue living in my side hall." Ah. Feeling ufortable, Consort Min turned away to wipe her tears. Who would understand? Since befriending Liu Concubine, she could spend the whole day hiding in Liu Concubine''s room. Liu Concubine didn''t like to read Buddhist scriptures, she only read storybooks! "Sister Min." Liu Channiang smiled wryly, she was younger than Consort Min, yet Consort Min, like a child, would cry when separated briefly from her ymate. "I''m not moving out of the pce, I might just be living next to you separated by a courtyard wall?" "Who knows, I might be assigned to the vacant Lanxi Pce next to you." "That would be great!" Consort Min brightened up at the idea, "Today happens to be the pce banquet, I''ll talk to the Empress about it!" The Empress is not a good person. Liu Concubine took a deep breath, but quickly suppressed her wariness of the Empress, shifting her focus to the Emperor''s banquet for officials. I wonder if the Eminent Cavalry General has entered the pce. Their meeting is scheduled for today. "Sister Min, I''m carrying the little princess, let''s hurry to the pce banquet." "It hasn''t started yet, why go so early?" Of course! To go to the pce banquet and gossip, it''s not like we''re nervous about rebellion or anything. Liu Concubine seemed more enthusiastic than usual, and Consort Min, being close to her, followed suit. Today''s pce banquet for awarding gold tokens is set in two ces. One is the Kunning Pce, where the Empress entertains the pce concubines and the wives of ministers. The other is the Chonghua Pce, where the Emperor entertains the officials and the royal children in the capital. When Liu Concubine and Consort Min arrived at Kunning Pce, there weren''t many people there. The main hall of Kunning Pce was set for the banquet, with long tables arranged ording to the ranks of the consorts. The hotpot dishes hadn''t been served yet. Except for a few concubines who were chatting with the Empress in the rear hall of Kunning Pce, most of the others were still dressing up. "Your Majesty, Liu Concubine and Consort Min have arrived." The Empress was taken aback, "So early?" Consort Min likes to chant Buddhist scriptures and is fond of peace, so she doesn''t usually approach the Empress when there''s nothing going on. They''re not in her circle. Liu Concubine, who used to have a lower status, didn''t show much presence in previous years. "Are you sure you''ve seen it clearly? Who''s walking in front, Liu Concubine or Consort Min?" The Empress narrowed her eyes. A maid whispered in her ear, "Liu Concubine seems to be walking a bit hastily." So it''s Liu Concubine who urged Consort Min toe to the pce banquet early! Liu Concubine had been low-key before, but now that she caught the Emperor''s attention, she didn''t be arrogant, and she still had the Empress in her eyes. She''s a good one! The Empress smiled warmly, watching Concubine Liu and Consort Min enter the rear hall. "Please, take your seats. My dear sisters, have you been chilled on your way here? Have some hot tea to warm yourselves," the Empress said gracefully and kindly. Concubine Liu, however, knew the Empress''s true nature¡ªcunning and ruthless. With a slight smile, she thanked her and chose a seat by the door, farthest from the Empress. The Empress nodded repeatedly in approval. Concubine Liu was indeed very obedient. "Your Majesty, a message from Noble Consort says she''s feeling unwell and won''t be joining us today." The Empress mmed her cup down, expressing her annoyance. Even the esteemed Noble Consort, fallen out of favor with the Emperor, dared to unt her absence! Look at Concubine Liu! Inparison, the Empress found Concubine Liu, who arrived early to the banquet and honored her, increasingly pleasing. Suppressing her anger, the Empress quickly ordered refreshments and engaged in conversation with the early-arriving concubines. She soon realized Concubine Liu''s remarkable humility and modesty, even surpassing Consort Min! Concubine Liu refrained from chatting with the other concubines, merely nodding in agreement whenever the Empress spoke. The more the Empress observed Concubine Liu, the more satisfied she became. This was respect shown to her, without any attempt to overshadow her authority. Even after being summoned by the Emperor several times recently, Concubine Liu remained discreet. Admirable! Very well, exceptionally well! The Empress expressed her contentment, "Today, everyone, please indulge. I''ve always regarded you as my own sisters. No need to be nervous." The other concubines responded eagerly, chattering incessantly. Only Concubine Liu maintained a steady gaze, smiling warmly and nodding affectionately at the Empress. The Empress secretly admired her. Concubine Liu knew her ce and always put the Empress first, her smile even brighter. But she didn''t notice Concubine Liu''s body leaning slightly backward toward Zhang Jia Wet Nurse, who stood behind her seat. Her ears almost touching Zhang Jia Wet Nurse''s bosom¡ªwhere the little princess was nestled. ["Wow, let me tune in to the live broadcast and see where the Eminent Cavalry General is! Oh, he''s already at the pce banquet so early!"] ["The Eunuch, who hands the pen to the Emperor, sneaks a sly little nce!"] ["Ah, the Eunuch noticed and subtly gestured back to him~"] ["Oh my, the maternal grandfather is hiding behind the screen, secretly observing them!"] ["Oh wow, even the Emperor himself is hiding behind the screen to spy on their interactions!"] Concubine Liu''s gaze fixed forward, her smile unwavering as she kept nodding asionally. Her thoughts, however, had long flown to where her daughter''s voice was pointing! And then? And then? The Empress uttered a few words and nced at Concubine Liu, finding her consistent restraint and obedience even more satisfying! Chapter 33 Chapter 33 Emperor Xiao Yunzhou stood behind the ink bamboo screen in the main hall of Chonghua Pce. Next to him was Old Master of the Liu Family, who had been summoned to the pce before dawn. Behind him were Wei Zheng and Pang Rusong, the guard who had saved him previously. These were all people he trusted. At this moment, Xiao Yunzhou peered through a small hole in the ink screen, looking at the banquet in the main hall. The banquet had not yet begun, and not many officials had arrived. But the pce eunuchs and pce maids were bustling about, darting back and forth in the grand hall. So although the Supreme Commander Zhang Chen had arrived early, he was not conspicuous. He soon nced around, and under the cover of the hurrying pce maids and eunuchs, he signaled to Zheng Eunuch, who was checking the preparations for the wine banquet. Zheng Eunuch immediately picked up a cup on the table and made a pouring motion. The two of thempleted this action and quickly returned to their respective positions. One sat down as if nothing had happened, while the other went back to the front study room. Standing behind the screen, Xiao Yunzhou''s chest heaved. "Your Majesty, is this eunuch one of your trusted ones?" Old Master of the Liu Family also peeked through the small hole and saw everything behind the screen. He had already heard the standard answer from his granddaughter, so he pretended to "deduce" it. "This Zheng Eunuch picked up the wine cup and made a subversive motion." "Could it be that he intends for Zhang Chen to spill the wine on himself during the banquet?" "Are they going to have a secret discussion under the guise of changing clothes?" "Otherwise, why would they be making eyes at each other!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes filled with admiration. He now really appreciated Old Master of the Liu Family. "Correct." Xiao Yunzhou had only understood the hidden meaning after hearing the words of the Little Princess. He didn''t expect Old Master of the Liu Family to interpret it so quickly and urately. Yes, these two had indeed acted on the wishes of the Little Princess, plotting during the pce banquet on the Golden Celebration Festival! "These bastards, His Majesty has used the money from the private treasury to host them, and they dare to betray us?!" The Grand Eunuch Wei Zheng was extremely angry. "And this Zheng Heng, how dare he secretlymunicate with the generals." Xiao Yunzhou snorted coldly, "Let''s wait and see! Wei Zheng, Old Master Liu, you will keep an eye on them with me." As the moon rose above the willow branches, the banquet began. Xiao Yunzhou picked up a wine cup and bestowedmb hot pot upon several generals stationed on the frontier. Supreme Commander Zhang Chen was among them. "Your servant thanks Your Majesty! Your servant will serve Your Majesty with utmost loyalty and diligence, not fearing death!" Zhang Chen''s square face, with his sharp eyebrows, had the look of a loyal subject. At this moment, his oath of allegiance was uttered even faster than the other generals! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows twitched. He acted so convincingly... If it weren''t for the reminder from the Little Princess, he certainly wouldn''t have noticed the treacherous heart of this Zhang Chen! Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "General, no need to be so polite, quickly sit down and enjoy the hot dishes. Try the grape wine from the Western Regions." Zhang Chen immediately expressed his gratitude, picked up the wine bottle, and drank threerge cups! Soon, he was swaying and slurring his speech, his eyes hazy as if he were already drunk. Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes, watching as Zhang Chen grabbed the wine bottle, drunkenly singing and wavering outside the grand hall. The other officials were toasting and chatting animatedly, with many getting up to offer toasts to the Emperor and high-ranking officials. asionally, someone would drink too much and go out for a break. In the midst of this, Zhang Chen''s departure did not stand out. Xiao Yunzhou sat at his seat, also chatting with the recently appointed cab ministers. But his attention never left a few particr people. Sure enough, not long after, in addition to Zhang Chen, the Shu Region and Xuantong prefectural administrationmissioners, several other high-ranking officials mentioned by the Little Princess also followed them out of the hall. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. He slowly gestured to Wei Zheng, "I need to change clothes,e and support me." Old Master Liu also understood the signal, and quietly exited the main hall through the back door. The three of them stealthily made their way to the Qianqing Pce. Sure enough, they soon heard a sound. "Ouch." It was the startled cry of the eunuch Zheng. "Ah, sorry, sorry, I spilled it all over you¡ª" "Not at all, it was this servant''s clumsiness that has also wet the general. I''ll call someone to help the general change clothes..." "Eh." "Huh? Eunuch Zheng, General Zhang, we few feel a bit nauseous and are afraid of causing a disturbance in the Chonghua Pce. Eunuch Zheng, can you please take us to a more secluded ce, so as not to disturb the Emperor and noble personages?" The group had bumped into each other. Xiao Yunzhou stood behind the artificial mountain, amused by what he heard! They were using him as an excuse to find a ce to plot their rebellion! Soon, the conspirators in front of the artificial mountain began to discuss in hushed tones where they could change clothes, while also delving into the core of their plot. "The Emperor has not held military exercises for the past three years, and General Zhang Chen is the most suitablemander in the capital. When the Prince rebels, I will open the city gates in Shu Region to receive him, and then head to Xuantong." "General Zhang cane to Xuantong under the pretext of suppressing the rebels, and unite with our five thousand elite troops and the Prince''s forces." "Mm, the Xuantong garrisonmander was previously under the Prince''smand, he''s one of us!" The Xuantong and Shu Region prefectural administrationmissioners discussed with Zhang Chen, their faces already glowing with triumph. As if they had already seeded. "Your Majesty, have you discovered anything?" Zhang Chen said, feeling that things were going too smoothly, and couldn''t help but worry. The imperial eunuch Zheng Heng smiled slightly, "The Earth dragon turnover has left a lingering ominous portent in Your Majesty''s heart. The Prince sent the auspicious Nine-Colored Peonies, and Your Majesty praised the Prince greatly." "Your Majesty has not noticed anything unusual. He even said he would reward the Prince well during the New Year." Hearing this, the other three became even more confident of their sess. Zhang Chen nodded, "Good, then you go back and convey the secret message to the Prince, and we will act ordingly at that time." "Oh? How will you act?" Zhang Chen frowned, what idiot was asking this question! How to act, hadn''t they just discussed it? Still asking how to act¡ª He was about to turn around and scold the eunuch Zheng Heng, but saw thetter trembling like a sieve. The two prefectural administrationmissioners behind him looked as if they had seen ghosts, their faces deathly pale. Zhang Chen''s heart sank, and he turned around, only to see the conspicuous dragon robe in the moonlight. As if being rebuked, Zhang Chen''s entire body froze! The Emperor... ? "Hmm?" Xiao Yunzhou stood with his hands behind his back, coldly smiling, "I asked you, why did none of you respond?" "How will you act, hmm?" The few of them immediately kowtowed to the ground, trembling in fear. Guard Pang Rusong immediately led his men, two-by-two, cing swords at their necks! "Your... Your Majesty..." How could the Emperor be here! How could he know about their plot!? Impossible, impossible! They hadn''t contacted each other after arriving in the capital. This was the first time they had encountered each other in the pce and discussed their rebellion. How could the Emperor have caught them red-handed?! "You all have quite the audacity, plotting to overthrow Me during the Golden Celebration, in My partially renovated Qianqing Pce!" The faces of the men turned as pale as gold,rge beads of sweat dripping down. It''s all over, it''s all over! Xiao Yunzhou snorted angrily, "You must be wondering how I knew about this." "Hehe, it''s all thanks to the quick wit of Old Master Liu, who promptly discovered and warned Me." The men were dumbfounded, all staring wide-eyed at the senior fourth-rank official, Old Master of the Liu Family. The Supreme Commander was second-rank, and the prefectural administrationmissioners were also second-rank! They had hardly even noticed Liu Changgeng before, who was just a minor official at the Guozi Academy. He had only been appointed as the Imperial Censor for less than a month! How did he discover this?! The four of them couldn''t figure it out, looking at Old Master Liu as if they had seen a ghost. Old Master Liu smiled slightly. With his simple and unadorned appearance, he held his head high. How did he discover it? Of course, it was thanks to the warning from his little granddaughter! He was delighted by this thought, but quickly schooled his expression, "Your Majesty, the Prince is rebelling, we must make early preparations to strike him down unawares!" Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth and nodded firmly. "Bring these men and imprison them in secret! Liu Changgeng, you are temporarily appointed as the Bandit-Suppression Commissioner!" "Pang Rusong, the Supreme Commander of the Left Route, is heading to the Yan Region to summon thirty thousand soldiers..." * [Awoo, my wet nurse''s husband Pang the Guard has indeed been highly valued by the Emperor Father!] [After this victory, he will be transferred to Xuantong to serve as the Vice Supreme Commander!] Xiao Chuchu was continuously live-streaming the gossip in the Empress''s pce banquet. Her inner thoughts were being directly transmitted to the closest Concubine Liu, as well as the Old Madam of the Liu Family sitting at the Ministers'' Wives'' table. [Awoo, my maternal grandfather has been rewarded again! The Emperor Father asked him what he wants!] [Grandfather said he loves his wife the most, so if the Emperor wants to grant him a reward, he would prefer to give it to my grandmother.] The Old Madam of the Liu Family suddenly blushed. The old man actually thought of her~ Really, why say such things in front of the Emperor! [Awoo, the Emperor granted my grandmother ten bolts of Shu silk.] [And also a hundred liang of gold...] [Enfeoffed my grandmother as a Third Rank Madam!] The Old Madam of the Liu Family could hardly close her mouth. The other Historiographer''s Wife sitting at the same table, seeing the Old Madam of the Liu Family smiling like this, couldn''t help but ponder. The Liu Family are indeed good-tempered people. The Old Madam was smiling the entire time, the Concubine Liu Highness also had a beaming smile, and even the little Princess nestled in the Highness''s arms had eyes like new moons, full of smiles. The whole family looked harmonious and prosperous. No wonder they''ve been rising rapidly, gaining the Emperor''s favor. "Old Madam of the Liu Family, I''ll drink to you." "Me too." "Count me in as well." The Old Madam of the Liu Family was suddenly surrounded. The Concubine Liu was even more so, with people responding and circling around her. Before long, an edict from the Emperor was announced in the Empress''s banquet. "The Emperor grants Concubine Liu a bowl of Jade Snail Soup!" "The Emperor grants the Liu Madam a bowl of Swallow Nest and Beef Soup!" "The Emperor grants the Little Princess a bowl of Corn Porridge!" The entire Kunning Pce instantly fell silent. The Emperor didn''t grant rewards to the Empress or the Imperial Consort, but granted them to this trio of grandmother, mother, and daughter!? Chapter 34 Chapter 34 "The Emperor has again bestowed Concubine San with a bowl of sugar water." "The Emperor has again bestowed Madam Liu with a tter of pig''s trotters..." It went on and on, like a listing of dishes. A eunuch came from the direction of the imperial banquet. Another one came soon after. Yet another one came. "The Emperor has again bestowed Concubine Liu..." The entire Kunning Pce was stunned, all setting down their bowls and chopsticks. All eyes turned to Madam Liu, who was normally unassuming among the official consorts, as well as Concubine Liu who had just been promoted, and the little princess being held by the wet nurse. They had surpassed the Empress, surpassed the Imperial Noble Consort! How dare they? What merits did the Liu family possess? Everyone was seething with jealousy, watching the imperial dishes with golden ribbons appear on the Liu family''s table. The Empress''s fingers were now tightly digging into the wooden table in front of her! She was so furious she was about to vomit blood! Just a moment ago, she had still thought Concubine Liu was obedient, but now she had been pped in the face by the Emperor! Did the Emperor still have any regard for her, the Empress? Or for her maternal n, the Tong family? The Empress was inwardly disgusted, but she had to maintain a dignified smile towards the eunuch Wei Zheng who brought the imperial dishes. She was almost twitching at the corners of her mouth, "Wei Gong Gong, you have worked hard, please have a seat and have some tea." "No need, I still have other tasks. To deliver the other imperial gifts to Old Madam Liu, Concubine Liu, and the little princess, I need to go to the treasury." What! Other imperial gifts?! Kunning Pce was almost frozen. You could hear a needle drop. The Empress could no longer smile at all. On such an important Awarding Gold Festival, why was the Emperor paying so much attention to the Liu family? But she took a deep breath, only able to swallow it down with her blood! She could not disy the slightest jealousy or anger in front of others, she could not lose the dignity of an Empress. Xiao Chuchu was leaning sideways in the wet nurse''s arms, and she clearly saw the Empress''s forced smile, [The Empress must be jealous of our Liu family~] [The Empress has always been jealous, and she also wants her eldest prince to seed. Ah, the Imperial Noble Consort just calmed down, and now the Empress has to resent the mother-inw again.] Concubine Liu and Old Madam Liu became alert upon hearing this. [But it''s fine, let''s just eat our fill~ I can''t even taste the imperial golden swallow''s nest tart, Mother, Grandmother, you two quickly try it for me~] [What does the golden swallow''s nest tart without preservatives taste like? And the bear paws... oh, we couldn''t even eat bear paws back then, they''ve be very scarce, we must protect them.] As Concubine Liu and Old Madam Liu listened, their expressions became strange. Are there no such delicacies in the immortal realm? How adorable is the little princess? In the face of a major crisis, their mindset is much better than theirs, still thinking about eating. At the moment, they also became calm and began to enjoy the imperial gifts. Concubine Liu took a bite and told her little daughter, "Mm, this dish is quite good, sweet, soft and juicy." Xiao Chuchu immediately started smacking her little lips. Even Consort Min''s neck was raised, drooling. After the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the second wave of imperial dishes for the Empress and the official consorts finally arrived. But even so, it could not overshadow the brilliance of the Liu family tonight. "Your Highness, Concubine Liu seems to be no ordinary person." The personal pce maid next to the Empress whispered with squinting eyes. The Empress looked at theposed Concubine Liu using the imperial dishes, and then at the also unfazed Old Madam Liu, falling into bewilderment. The Liu family was never considered a major household in the capital before. But the women from this Liu family, how can they be more dignified than the official consorts who received the imperial dishes, not affected by the gifts? The Empress pondered, "The Liu family is about to rise." Her expression darkened. If the Liu family rises to prominence, what will happen to her eldest prince? Could he be overshadowed by the Fifth Prince? Just a moment ago, she thought she could control Concubine Liu, but it turned out she couldn''t at all! The Emperor was too outrageous! "Send someone to pass the news of Concubine Liu being awarded imperial delicacies by the Emperor to Imperial Noble Fu Cha." The Empress narrowed her eyes and said, "And have someone tell her that when she was punished with house arrest, Concubine Liu and the Third Princess just happened to be in the Emperor''s side chamber." The Empress gently put down her wine cup and smiled. She wanted to use others to kill! Concubine Liu and Fu Cha, let them fight to the death! The Empress hid the cruelty in her eyes and smiled as she toasted the consorts and official consorts. * "What! That vile woman received a full six imperial dishes from my brother the Emperor?" Imperial Noble Fu Cha, who had feigned illness to avoid the imperial banquet, angrily threw the teacup to the ground upon hearing the news. Although she had once thought that if the Emperor, her brother, did not enthrone her son in the future, and instead enthroned the Empress''s eldest prince, she would just grit her teeth and have someone poison her brother. After all, the imperial physician said that emperors who take elixirs never live long. But that doesn''t mean Fu Cha has never loved her brother the Emperor. All these years, the Emperor has always treated her as the most special, even after he took up cultivation, he would still oftene to her ce to sit and frequently care about her food and living. Every year during the Awarding Gold Festival, the Emperor''s gifts to her were no less than the Empress''s. Imperial Noble Fu Cha has always felt that she is the most esteemed woman in the harem. But today - "How dare she! What is this Concubine Liu?!" "Brother Emperor, why did you honor her like this? I haven''t even received that many imperial dishes!" "I was ced under house arrest, and that vile Concubine Liu dares to step on my head and climb up?" It must be Concubine Liu who made the Emperor today not think of her. It must be! Imperial Noble Fu Cha became angrier and angrier. "Your Highness, it is said that when you were under house arrest, Concubine Liu was by the Emperor''s side!" "What!" Imperial Noble Fu Cha was shocked and furious. "Vile woman, I''m going to see the Emperor now!" Ignoring the resistance of the pce maids and eunuchs, Imperial Noble Fu Cha angrily rushed out with her entourage! She had been wondering all this time why the Emperor had suddenly be so ruthless towards her after the house arrest. She had thought about harming him, but how could he have known? It must be Concubine Liu ndering her to the Emperor for the Fifth Prince! Yes, that''s exactly what happened. Imperial Noble Fu Cha immediately shifted the me to Concubine Liu. "I''m going to tell the Emperor brother! It''s all this vile woman''s nder!" The eunuch by Imperial Noble Fu Cha''s side lowered his voice, "Also, our spy near the Empress said that she just saw Sir Liu from the Liu family secretly leaving the imperial banquet and heading towards the Qianqing Pce which is currently undergoing renovations." "What is he doing there? He''s just an ordinary Imperial Censor..." Imperial Noble Fu Cha frowned, "Could it be that Concubine Liu has already meddled in the Qianqing Pce before?" The eunuch next to her continued, "Sir Liu had not been gone for long when he was seening out of the renovating Qianqing Pce with the Emperor''s personal guard Pang Rusong." Imperial Noble Fu Cha''s eyes lit up! The Liu family dares to collude with the Emperor''s guard. She will go tell the Emperor brother! It is the Awarding Gold Festival today, so Imperial Noble Fu Cha was able to go out without much obstruction. Soon after the imperial banquet ended, Imperial Noble Fu Cha had already rushed to the door of Chonghua Pce where the Emperor was resting. "Your Majesty, I want to use Concubine Liu! I also want to use the Fourth-Rank Imperial Censor Sir Liu!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was resting. After a night of scheming, he was tired, but now he heard the unrelenting mor of Imperial Noble Fu Cha. "Your Majesty, the Liu family wants to harm you! Concubine Liu wants to harm you!" "Someone saw the Imperial Censor Sir Liu Wenchang sneaking around the renovating Qianqing Pce and discussing with the personal guard Pang Rusong." Fu Cha''s shouts almost made Xiao Yunzhou pass out. He was preparing to ambush Prince Liao when he found an excuse to send Cavalry General Zhang Chen to Youzhou to capture the bandits. In reality, he had the Imperial Guards arrest Prince Liao. Then he had Sir Liu and Pang Rusong secretly go to Yanzhou to lead the troops to attack Prince Liao. All of this was secretly ordered by him. Now that Fu Cha had exposed it, it would ruin his grand n! "Your Majesty, how can Sir Liu, the Imperial Censor overseeing the officials, be meeting with the imperial guards in private?" The Imperial Noble Fu Cha eximed, "The Liu family is harboring sinister intentions and plotting rebellion!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face turned green! "Guards, take this wicked woman back to me," the Emperormanded. "Silence her!" Chapter 35 Chapter 35 "Guards, gag the Fucha n''s mouth!" "Your Majesty! What have I, your humble servant, done wrong? I received the news and came to tell you!" Noble Consort Fucha was simply incredulous. "Could it be that Your Majesty wants to watch idly as the n of the Prince''s mother conspires with the guards who walk in your presence, in exchange for Your Majesty''s information? Intending to harm Your Majesty''s safety and security?" Noble Consort Fucha did not yet know that Pang Rusong was the guard who rescued the Emperor from the pce on the day the Dragon turned over. She also did not know that the Emperor could hear the Little Princess''s prophetic visions of the future. Mr. Liu, the old master of the Liu family, Liu Wenchang, the Little Princess had said, was killed by the new Emperor. Pang Rusongter became the great general of the border regions, but died from the recurrence of old injuries and overwork. These were all loyal subjects! Xiao Yunzhou was very clear, and would not be shaken by Noble Consort Fucha. Let alone the fact that Mr. Liu and Pang Rusong originally had no connection, it was this Emperor who, because Pang Rusong had saved him and knew he would be a great general in the future, especially trusted this guard and let Pang Rusong apany Liu Wenchang. Noble Consort Fucha not only talked nonsense, but also loudly shouted "treason" and "collusion", if she startled the snake in the grass, the secret n to rehabilitate the Liao King would fail. This was noughing matter! "Fucha n, how dare you peek into My Qianqing Pce!" Noble Consort Fucha was dumbfounded, the Emperor called her what, the Fucha n? He had never called her that before! And what does it mean, peeking into the Qianqing Pce, now the Qianqing Pce is under renovation, what''s wrong with her peeking at a dpidated pce! The Emperor hasn''t been living there recently! "You dare to investigate My pce guards and imperial officials of the fourth rank, you are simply presumptuous!" Xiao Yunzhou was quite unhappy. "The Rear Pce is not allowed to interfere in politics, don''t you know that!" Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. If the Fucha n ruined their n to suppress the rebellion, and the Liao King became aware of it, then the Liao King''s rebel army would reach the gates of the capital. Who would bear the responsibility for the tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians injured and killed, the consumption of grain and military supplies in the war? Not to mention a mere Consort, not even his own cousin, even if it was this Emperor himself, he would have to apologize to his ancestors after death! "Fucha n, from this day on, you shall be demoted to Concubine Yu." Noble Consort Fucha opened her mouth, "Wh-what...?" Last time her cousin only ced her under house arrest and let her cultivate herself! She fell to the ground in an instant, This time she was just giving advice, and he simply stripped her of her Noble Consort status?? "Cousin, it''s not true... Cousin!" Concubine Yu. The Yu of the elm tree. The title was so named, indicating that the Emperor was displeased with her, leaving only dissatisfaction. The Fucha n was finished... Standing beside her, Wei Zheng lowered his eyes and stepped forward without emotion, "Concubine Yu, the Emperor has spoken, please go." The Fucha n''s hands and feet were weak, her face pale. When she was sent back, she was like in a dream. Even when her own Third Prince came anxiously to find her, she couldn''t hear what he was saying. "Mother, what''s wrong with you? Mother, what did you do that Father the Emperor is so angry and punishing you?" The lips of the Fucha n trembled, and she couldn''t say a word. In the Kunning Pce, the Empress was still unable to fall asleep, "The Emperor is actually so protective of Concubine Liu, it''s really surprising to this Empress." The Emperor was too heartless. He even discarded his own cousin like an old shoe. Then what about her, the Empress? If one day he was dissatisfied, would the Emperor be even more heartless towards her, the Empress? The Empress suddenly sat up, "We can''t wait any longer. Let my father take action, even if it means temporarily allying with the Prime Minister Fucha!" "We must also quickly establish the Eldest Prince as the Crown Prince." On the second day of the pce banquet, Mr. Liu and Pang Rusong, one made an excuse of illness, the other of returning home to visit family, both left the capital city, also under the pretext of suppressing bandits. Xiao Yunzhou personally went to Concubine Liu''s residence,forting her and the Fifth Prince, "You don''t have to worry, I''ve sent Pang Rusong to escort the old master." "There are 50,000 soldiers in Yan Region who are under orders." Xiao Yunzhou gently patted Concubine Liu''s icy hand, and at the same time lovingly looked at the swaddled Little Princess. "The old master is in good health, he will return safely on this journey." Riding fast horses, if all goes well, they should arrive in about seven or eight days. As for the Liao King matter, he had not told anyone else, but he came to Concubine Liu''s ce and told them first. After all, the Liu family was loyal, he had no worries. More importantly - Xiao Yunzhou perked up his ears, expectantly looking at his own sweet and delicate Third Princess. Sure enough, after hearing Xiao Yunzhou''s words, Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but start chattering in her heart. ¡¾Hmm, my Imperial Father is awesome this time. Tonight the Liao King is still in the Elysium of Love~He will rise up in the new year.¡¿ ¡¾So during the Chrysanthemum Festival these seven days, the Liao King will reward his troops in the provinces with wine and meat, he himself will also indulge in pleasure, in a sea of wine and meat.¡¿ ¡¾So, my Imperial Father now lets Guard Pang and my maternal grandfather set off, and within seven days they will arrive at the Liao King''s ce, absolutely able to catch the fish in the jar.¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou suddenly let out a sigh of relief, and his mood became more rxed. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince also secretly rxed. ¡¾This time, my Imperial Father owes a lot to my wise maternal grandfather!¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou even wanted to nod his head. Yes, that''s how it is. He looked again at the mature-beyond-his-years Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, and his satisfaction rose even higher. What if, he handed over the throne to the Fifth Prince? Now Xiao Yunzhou felt that just as the Little Princess said, the entire civil and military officials, all thanks to the old master of the Liu family! With such a bloodline from the maternal family, Little Five in the future will definitely not be stupid. And the Little Princess is the reincarnation of a celestial being, she is the Fifth Prince''s own sister. If in the future, when this father Emperor passes away, whoever he entrusts the throne to, Xiao Yunzhou is currently not too sure. But if he hands it over to Little Five, perhaps the Little Princess celestial being will also show mercy, and in consideration of him, this father, in the future may also listen to the voice of the one inheriting the great rule. Xiao Yunzhou thought so, and his gaze at the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian became even more approving. * Seven dayster. The Liao King''s pce. The Liao King was being fed a grape by his beautiful concubine, preparing to get up. Just then, a shout rang out outside. "Your Highness the Liao King, the people the Emperor sent to visit you have arrived." The Liao King was startled, then delighted. His foolish nephew liked the false flowers he sent so much? He actually sent people to thank him! Heughed uncontrobly, "Quick, bring the people from the Emperor''s side in. Oh no, I''d better go greet them myself." He walked out of his main house, confidently going to the gate of the Liao King''s pce. But he was immediately met with a knife at his throat. The Liao King was dumbfounded. "Audacious Liao King, you dare to conspire in rebellion!" "We have already found the secret letters of your collusion with the Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen in your guards'' belongings!" The Liao King: "...!?" Wait, wait a minute? The Emperor''s people are in the capital, how did they find the secret letters from his domain? "Liao King, do you confess?" "The people who escorted the nine-colored peonies to the capital have all confessed." Mr. Liu stood in front of the stunned, frozen Liao King, hands behind his back, head high. "Your every move in the rebellion, the allied Xuancheng, Shu Region prefects and provincial governors, we knew about it all!" The Liao King: "????" Impossible! How could this be possible!? How did they know!? He hadn''t even started taking action yet! Chapter 36 Chapter 36 "Go, Liao King!" In the remote frontier fiefdom, Old Master of Liu Family and Commander Pang personally escorted the Liao King into the prisoner''s carriage. "Escort the Liao King and his co-conspirators back to the capital immediately!" ... On the ninth day after the Golden Ceremony, the imperial ministers gathered for court. Several ministers loyal to the Empress were about to submit a joint memorial to bring up the issue of designating the Crown Prince again, when they heard the announcement from Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. "We have already designated the Crown Prince. After the Qianqing Pce is renovated, the edict of session will be ced behind the que. When We have passed away a hundred years from now, you may go and retrieve it." What? The ministers were all stunned. The ministers loyal to the Empress and Noble Consort factions were momentarily at a loss for words. "Your Majesty, our dynasty has never had a session arrangement like this before." The Empress faction adamantly disagreed. If the Emperor wished to designate the eldest imperial prince, he could just publicly announce it. Why hide it behind a que? Most likely, he wanted to designate another prince, and was hiding it to avoid their opposition. The Empress faction unanimously opposed, "Your Majesty, this is not in ordance with the proper procedures!" "Yes, even if the Emperor does not inform the ministers, he should at least notify the Imperial Cab." Lord Fucha also stepped forward. He disagreed as well. During the Golden Ceremony, his daughter Imperial Noble Fu Cha was demoted, so the Emperor was certainly not designating the Third Prince. He wanted to reason with the Emperor and dy matters. Lord Fucha thought, and his party ministers behind him immediately knelt down, one after another. "Please reconsider, Your Majesty!" "The recent demotion of the Noble Consort has not been thoroughly investigated yet. It is highly improper to hastily designate the Crown Prince!" "The matters of the imperial harem are indeed Your Majesty''s personal affairs. But designating the Crown Prince is a crucial state affair, how can Your Majesty decide it alone? It should be discussed and determined by the Imperial Cab." Xiao Yunzhou grew increasingly angered as he listened. If not for his excellent self-cultivation in the Dao, he would have really wanted to have them all whipped a hundred times on the spot! Damn it! Xiao Yunzhou only regretted that Old Master Liu had been sent to deal with the Liao King''s affair. Otherwise, he would still have Old Master Liu standing on his side! What''s wrong with everyone in the court, that none of them are as sensible as Old Master Liu? It would be great if Old Master Liu coulde back now! Then he wouldn''t have to fight alone! Just as Xiao Yunzhou was thinking this, a guard suddenly rushed in and knelt outside the hall. "Report - Urgent dispatch from 800 miles away!" "Censor Liu Wenchang and Imperial Guard Commander Pang Rusong have captured the Liao King who rebelled, along with over twenty other traitors. The rebel soldiers have surrendered without a fight!" Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed. But the ministers in the court were all stunned. What, a rebellion? Xiao Yunzhou abruptly stood up, his dragon robe billowing. "Do I need your permission to designate the Crown Prince?" "Hmph! Do I have to wait for you all to act? My bones might be cold by then!" "A bunch of useless fellows!" "The Liao King rebelled, and not a single one of you knew about it!" The ministers of the court, the Imperial Cab, the Six Ministries, civil and military officials of the first and second ranks... were all dumbfounded. No, how were they supposed to know about a rebellion in the distant frontier when they were in the capital? Hold on, why was it Old Master Liu who discovered this again? Emperor Xiao Yunzhou looked at the faces of shock below him, greatly delighted. Ever since he had Old Master Liu and the Little Princess, he had grown quite fond of court audiences. As an Emperor, this was the second time he had severely reprimanded the ministers, and it felt incredibly gratifying. "Imperial Cab! Six Ministries!" "Ministry of Justice!" "Censorate!" "You useless wretches, the Liao King could have marched all the way to the capital gates and you might not have even noticed! What else can I expect from you?" "If I have to listen to you, how will this dynasty and state survive? The ancestral foundation has already been ruined!" The ministers'' faces turned green. They had been scolded by the Emperor again. Worse yet, despite their erudition in the Four Books and Five ssics, at this moment they could not refute the Emperor and could only endure his berating. After all, they had failed to detect this rebellion, and it was discovered by Censor Liu Wenchang, a mere fourth-rank official, and the Emperor before them. As for the matter of designating the Crown Prince... at a time like this, no one dared to openly oppose the Emperor anymore. "Your Majesty, we have failed in our duties, please forgive our faults." Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab, that old fox, was the first to humbly admit fault, temporarily halting the Emperor''s continued scolding. "The most urgent matter now is to apprehend all the Liao King''s co-conspirators, to eliminate any future threats. Otherwise, even with the Liao King captured, there may still be aplices plotting treason." With just one sentence, he redirected the Emperor''s focus from scolding the ministers. All the ministers in the court looked at Lord Fucha gratefully, relieved. The Minister of War immediately regained hisposure and stepped forward. "Your Majesty, since Censor Liu and Commander Pang are escorting the Liao King back to the capital through the Shu Region, I suggest dispatching another senior general to assist them." The Ministry of War could not miss out on iming credit for suppressing this rebellion. The Emperor had quietly resolved the matter himself without their involvement. If that happened, the Ministry of War would just be a mere formality. The Minister of War was a shrewd man, and immediately proposed to the Emperor, "The Shu Region was once guarded by the Liao King in his youth. The soldiers there may be colluding with him." "I suggest dispatching a senior general to ensure the suppression of the rebellion is wless." He was from the Empress faction. By stepping forward and rmending someone, the person he suggested would owe him a favor in the future, and thus stand with the Empress and Crown Prince. Upon hearing this, Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab also stepped forward, taking the lead. "Minister of War is right, Your Majesty. We also rmend the Eminent Cavalry General, Zhang Chen." As he spoke, Lord Fucha''s expression was lofty and inscrutable. The Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen came from a family that had fought alongside the founding Emperor. The Zhang family held a lofty position in the military. Zhang Chen was a neutralist in court politics, not aligning with the Empress or Noble Consort factions. But both sides wanted to win him over! After all, to enthrone a prince, they needed the support of not just the civil officials, but also the senior militarymanders. "Lord Fucha, rmending a general is the responsibility of the Ministry of War," the Minister of War from the Empress faction hurriedly said, how dare the Noble Consort''s Lord Fucha try to steal their candidate! "Your Majesty, the Ministry of War also wants to rmend the Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen!" After the Minister of War spoke, many of the ministers expressed their support. The Noble Consort''s faction, the Empress faction... they all rmended Zhang Chen, hoping to gain his rmendation and the future goodwill of the Zhang family. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, seated on the Dragon Throne, watched thisical tug-of-war over a single person clearly. He couldn''t help but want tough, "Oh? Where is the Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen?" The Minister of War hurriedly replied, "Your Majesty has forgotten? You sent him to suppress a bandit during the Golden Ceremony." "Haha." Xiao Yunzhou immediately burst outughing. He abruptly stood up and flung the golden cup on the table straight at the Minister of War''s head! "Ouch!" The Minister of War looked up, his head bleeding. Wei Zheng, catching the Emperor''s signal, stepped forward. "Your Majesty, you have forgotten. The Eminent Cavalry General has been arrested by the Imperial Guards for colluding with a pce eunuch scribe to assist the Liao King''s rebellion, and is now detained in a manor on the outskirts of the capital." The Minister of War was stunned. Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab stared with wide eyes. The ministers in the court were all struck dumb, as if hit by lightning! Chapter 37 Chapter 37 The court officials were all in a state of shock, scarcely able to believe what they had heard. The Eminent Cavalry General they had rmended was a co-conspirator of the rebel Liao King? The officials looked up to see Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s impassive face, gazing at them coldly. Only the Eunuch Wei Zheng spoke up cheerfully, "Your Majesty is most wise. On the day of the pce banquet, he heard that Zhang Chen and the others were plotting, but did not publicly punish them, instead secretly imprisoning them. This prevented them from arousing suspicion and lulling the faraway Liao King." "Now, the Lord Liu and Lord Pang Your Majesty dispatched have trapped the Liao King and his co-conspirators, sessfully bringing them back to the capital, all thanks to Your Majesty''s wisdom!" "Your Majesty is most brilliant!" Wei Zheng bootlickingly shouted, his face flushed red. The hearts of the court officials all turned cold. Especially those who had just rmended Zhang Chen, their bodies trembling as they all kowtowed. "Your Majesty - we failed to discern this! We did not know... we were not in league with Zhang Chen and the Liao King! May Your Majesty judge us fairly!" The Eminent Cavalry General they had rmended was actually a co-conspirator of the rebels! "Hmph, you rmended a co-conspirator of the rebellion to suppress the Liao King." Xiao Yunzhou sitting on the dragon throne pped mockingly. "You all are truly my best loyal subjects!" The officials all kowtowed frantically, their foreheads hitting the ground. "Your Majesty, forgive us, we were ipetent." This damned Eminent Cavalry General Zhang Chen, an early dynasty contributor, had actually rebelled - was he insane? And to plot in the pce banquet, only to be caught red-handed by the Emperor and Lord Liu. Was his mind broken? The officials were all greatly harmed by this foolish Zhang Chen, wishing they could curse his ancestors for eight generations. Especially the first to rmend him, the Imperial Cab Lord Fucha and the Minister of War, they truly wanted to faint on the spot. The Minister of War didn''t even dare wipe the blood dripping from his head, only feeling an icy chill throughout his body. "We have disappointed us greatly." Xiao Yunzhou''s tone was cold. "Among all the civil and military officials, only Lord Liu could relieve our worries!" The officials were stunned. Lord Liu Changgeng, merely a fourth-rank official just promoted from the Imperial Academy - what merits did he have? "Minister of War, you are demoted to Vice Minister of War." "The five Imperial Cab Lords, your sries shall be reduced by three years." "One more time... and you can all go home and sell sweet potatoes!" Xiao Yunzhou coldly rose and walked a few steps before stopping. Looking back towards the Imperial Cab, "Lord Fucha, do you still think we were being capricious in degrading your daughter to Concubine Yu?" The Imperial Cab Lord Fucha''s face turned as white as paper, sweating profusely. He immediately closed his eyes and fell backwards. "Lord Fucha!" "Lord Fucha-" Imperial Noble Fu Cha was demoted to Concubine Yu, bestowed with the character ''Yu'' - not only a rebuke that she had ndered Lord Liu and the imperial guard Pang Rusong, but also the Emperor denouncing the ipetent and empty-headed Imperial Cab Lords! The Imperial Cab was utterly useless! As the Imperial Cab Lord Fucha fainted, the officials all looked at each other, their courage shattered. The Emperor... had truly changed! That Liu Wenchang, he used to feign weakness before the tigers, but now... In the Donghua Pce main hall, Consort Liu was having an early meal with Consort Min. Besides them, the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian and Sixth Prince Cheng Shan were also present. Since Master Liu had been dispatched to suppress the rebellion and had not yet returned to the capital, nor had any news, both Consort Liu and the Fifth Prince had little appetite. "Sister Min, you should eat more." Concerned about her father, Consort Liu pushed the meatballs towards Consort Min, her distaste for them increasing. "I feel you''ve be thinner again. You shouldn''t eat only vegetarian food for Buddhist cultivation. Sister Min, you must think of the Sixth Prince, he''s still young." Consort Min''s heart bloomed with joy, she had been waiting for this all morning! "Silly Liu Mother, you''re talking nonsense," the Sixth Prince puzzledly looked at his own mother Consort Min, "I feel my mother has gotten fattertely, she seems to have eaten a lot of meat..." Consort Liu: "..." She was at a loss for words. Consort Min angrily smacked the Sixth Prince with her chopsticks, "Just you keep that mouth of yours shut! During meals, you should learn from your Fifth Brother. See how he has such gentlemanly manners, not talking with his mouth full." The Sixth Prince felt wronged, what had he said wrong? The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian helplessly pushed the osmanthus cake in front of him towards his younger brother, "Sixth Brother, you eat." The Sixth Prince''s eyes immediately brightened at the sight of the food, "Ah, Fifth Brother is always so good to me, not like Mother who only knows how to scold me!" Consort Min: "..." Why were her children so different. The Liu children were all so well-behaved and promising. Her own child, he was just the one to vex her. "Liu Sister, I''ve spoken to the Empress, it''s best if you move to the Lanxi Pce closest to me. From now on, you and the little Princess can have meals with me." Consort Min even wanted to swap her Sixth Prince with the Fifth Prince. "I''ll cover all your and the children''s dining expenses. I just adore Little Chu, I feel unwell if I don''t see her for a day." The Sixth Prince nodded, "I think Mother should just switch with Consort Liu Mother - I like Consort Liu Mother better anyway." "How did I end up with such an unruly son!" Consort Min angrily ate another meatball. Little Chu quietly smiled, [Oh, there''s news from the morning court! Grandfather has captured the Liao King and is on the way back!] [Lord Fucha the Imperial Cab Lord has been punished, he''s fainted...] [Unexpectedly, Imperial Noble Fu Cha, the original female lead, has been toppled like this?] Consort Liu and the Fifth Prince were immediately overjoyed. Little Chu also gleefully bared her teeth. A major crisis has been averted. The military force is secured, so even if the new Emperor is not her brother, her brother may not necessarily die in battle. Perhaps the country won''t be destroyed in the future? The thought had just shed through her mind when she heard a beep. [System upgradeplete.] [Side quest 1 triggered: Improve the status and value of women.] [Side quest progress: 0] [Main quest: The host bes the darling of the first superpower country.] [Main quest progress: 0 (Currently the host is the darling of the soon-to-be-destroyed country)] Little Chu: "???" This is still a pce intrigue system? You care about what kind of superpower country or doomed country I''m the darling of? But why is it still about to be destroyed? Didn''t I change a lot of the tragedies already? [Would you like to view the national strength value of the Jing Country? Cost 50 points.] Little Chu checked her current point bnce, it was already 1293. She nodded generously. [50 points deducted.] [Current national strength of Jing Country: 39.] "????" Little Chu was dumbfounded. Please, what is the full score? Looking at it, it doesn''t seem very qualified. [Analysis of the six dimensions of Jing Country''s national strength:] [Medicine - Poor (Yellow River flooding, about to have an epidemic)] [Economy - Poor (Lacking silver in the treasury, many corrupt officials)] [Military - Low (Not enough elite troops, false troop rosters; emphasis on civil officials,ck of military generals)] [Agriculture - Poor (Yellow River flooding, scorched earth, locust impact)] [Industry - Low (Focus on poetry and songs, technological developmentgs)] [Commerce - Medium (Tea, porcin, and silk fabrics dominate, but transportation is inconvenient)] Little Chu was stunned, they were all at a low or poor level, onlymerce was still decent. Looking at it this way, the Jing Country she was in was indeed not a prosperous era, but the signs of impending chaos and ruin. [Would you like to view the top three national strength rankings?] [Cost 100 points.] Little Chu immediately exchanged. She just wanted to know what level Jing Country''s 39 points really was. [Top three national rankings:] [Yuan Mu Country: 193 points.] [Sheng Country: 161 points.] [Quan Country: 128 points.] Little Chu: "..." She was dumbfounded. The Emperor who destroyed Jing Country in the novel, the current ruler of Yuan Mu Country, has 193 national strength, five times that of Jing Country? This is no joke. [Currently, Jing Country is at 39 points, ranking outside the top twenty.] [Please, host, work hard andplete the main quest as soon as possible - be the darling of the first superpower.] Xiao Chu Chu: ... Ah, this pce intrigue system is too much! Boost national power? This is the task of a favored child? She''s not even two months old yet! Xiao Chu Chu grumbled and quickly brought up the lottery wheel! ¡¾Host, confirm spending 1000 points for a ten-pull?¡¿ --Yes! Xiao Chu Chu nodded her little head. In an instant, a cascade of colorful ribbons like fireworks appeared before her eyes. ¡¶Spinning Wheel Technology Update¡· ¡¶Dysentery Golden Form¡· ¡¶Five-Man Battle Formation¡· ... Instantly, three shimmering SSR skill book volumes appeared in her mind! Chapter 38 Chapter 38 Xiao Chuchu gathered ten full summons and the system rewarded her with an extra pull. With one breath, she pulled three dazzling golden SSR skill books. As she read the titles, she was stunned. The battle array formation, the improved textile technology, and the remedy for the gue. How practical! The three books entered her mind and immediately formed an unforgettable text. At the same time, a message shed by. ¡¾Randomly enhanced a personal skill.¡¿ ¡¾The host skill - Body Fragrance detected.¡¿ Previously, Xiao Chuchu only had one system skill, which was the personal fragrance, which could help people focus and improve their mental state. Instantly, the reward fell on this skill of hers. ¡¾Body Fragrance upgraded to Lv2: Within one step of you, people may have a 100% increase in all-day brain concentration and a 100% increase in intelligence.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu raised her eyebrows. In a sh, the faint fragrance on her body did not change. But just as she had taken her daughter from the wet nurse Zhang Jia, Concubine Liu suddenly paused. She suddenly felt that her thoughts were clearer than ever before! In an instant, she thought of many things. For example, a few days ago, her good friend Min Rou was bullied, and she had thought of using her identity as a pce concubine to open up a path for all women and improve the status of women. But after that, Concubine Liu didn''t do anything. Because there had been too many things recently, she had been anxious about her elderly father and Prince Liao''s rebellion, and she had forgotten about the goal of improving the status of women. But now, Concubine Liu didn''t know why, but she suddenly thought of this grand goal from a few days ago. And she suddenly felt that her thoughts were clear, and she knew how to do it. Concubine Liu looked at Consort Min, who was happily chewing on steamed buns, and immediately opened her mouth with agile thoughts, "Sister Min, you are a Buddhist, and the Buddha is merciful." Consort Min suddenly stopped chewing and stared wide-eyed. Concubine Liu continued, "Recently, the Yellow River flooded, and manymoners were disced. As a Buddhist, you must feel sorry for these people." Consort Min: "???" She had a question mark on her face. Who knows, her practice of Buddhism was just a facade. And Consort Min''s true personality was straightforward and unconcerned with worldly affairs, and she really hadn''t paid attention to the news about the Yellow River. But since childhood, she had loved martial arts and had a strong heart of a female knight! "Sister Liu, you''re right, if I could help themoners, it would be great. s, we are trapped in the pce." Holding her daughter, Concubine Liu could smell the faint milky fragrance mixed with the spring aroma on her daughter. Hearing Consort Min''s words, a specific n shed through her mind, as if she had be more intelligent. "Sister Min, I think we are better off in the pce. We can use our identity as pce concubines to unite the idle officials and wealthy women in the capital, and together make winter clothes for the disaster-strickenmoners, how about it?" Concubine Liu said, finding the pain point of the problem, "It''s winter, I don''t know how many people are freezing." "We women can also do our part." Consort Min''s eyes lit up. That makes sense! "Sister Liu, I never thought that in addition to persuading me to eat meat, no, in addition to being gentle and kind, you also have such ideas. Helping the disaster victims and making winter clothes, great!" ¡¾Wow, my mother is amazing!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu was excited. Settling the disced, providing food, clothing and housing, this could reduce the mortality rate and increase national strength! ¡¾My mother is so smart, this can also be considered a force of the female soldiers!¡¿ Concubine Liu couldn''t help but squint and smile. Even the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian beside her couldn''t help but praise and feel guilty, "Mother, you make your son feel ashamed. Your son is not as good as you, your son didn''t even think of contributing to the settlement of the wintermoners." How could he not have thought of it? "Mother, what kind of fabric do you need? Your son also has some silver given by the former emperor before, and the prince''s monthly allowance, about a hundred taels, all give it to you." Consort Min also expressed her support, "I also support it, I''ll contribute three hundred taels. Oh right, Cheng Chang has been copying sutras recently, I''ll ask her to contribute a few hundred taels as well." Cheng Chang was a businesswoman at home. She had a lot of money, and she was also wicked. Rather than letting her give the money to the pce maids and plot harm, it''s better to use it for disaster relief. "She should agree to it. Sister Liu, this is an opportunity for her to umte merit, she should be grateful to you." ¡¾Haha, Aunt Min''s mouth, I''m impressed!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu was amused listening to this. Concubine Liu''s face also had a smile. On the spot, the Sixth Prince Cheng Shan also followed his elder brother, "I also have, um... more than thirty taels, all for Mother Liu." "Ah, if I had known earlier, I would have spent less and not bought so many sweets." The room was filled withughter. Xiao Chuchu was somewhat moved. Although she was alone, havinge to this strange world of a book. But Concubine Liu, the Fifth Prince, all gave her the warmth of a family. Consort Min and the Sixth Prince were also very kind. Everyone wants themoners to have a good life, and wants Jing Country to be better. ¡¾Oh, my mother thinks about making winter clothes. If I could give her the improved textile technology I just got, that would be great.¡¿ Concubine Liu was stunned. The Fifth Prince was also taken aback. His sister''s reward has enhanced her abilities? In addition to warning about the future, she has also given them the superior future technology? The Fifth Prince took a deep breath, his eyes bright and energetic. His sister is truly a treasure given by heaven. He must work harder in the future to protect his sister and not waste her efforts! ¡¾Ah, too bad I''m just a baby now, I can''t write out the textile technology.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu pouted unhappily. No worries, we can all hear your thoughts. Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince looked at the small Xiao Chuchu frowning anxiously, and they were both anxious. Xiao Chuchu closed her eyes, ¡¾If Mother or Brother, or Grandfather could see the things in my mind, maybe Jing Country could still be saved.¡¿ ¡¾Otherwise, the national strength of Yuan Mu Country is five times stronger than ours, it''s really dangerous.¡¿ Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince were immediately stunned. Five times the national strength! Is this for real? ¡¾Our Jing Country''s ranking among the nearby countries is not even in the top twenty. It''s ridiculous...¡¿ ¡¾If it weren''t for the other countries restraining each other and not daring to start a war easily, we probably would have been done for a long time.¡¿ ¡¾Forget it, no use thinking about it.¡¿ ¡¾Let me take a look at this improved textile technology...¡¿ Xiao Chuchu, who was always optimistic, immediately flipped through the books in her mind. ¡¾Hmm? This SSR textile technology, it''s actually optimizing the efficiency of silk processing and the spinning wheel technology.¡¿ ¡¾It greatly improves the efficiency of weaving, saving time and silk waste.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu muttered as she read the advanced knowledge in her mind. She couldn''t understand weaving and spinning, so she had to read it slowly word by word in her mind. ¡¾Oh, silk processing, there are so many methods...¡¿ Concubine Liu suddenly stood up, "Sister Min, I''ll go back to research the making of winter clothes." She hurriedly went back to her room and had her personal maid Qiu Li bring paper and ink. She also hurriedly instructed her son, "Cheng Qian, go to the library and see if you can find some books on weaving and silkworm cultivation for your mother to read." Cheng Qian''s eyes flickered, and he immediately went to do it. As for Concubine Liu, she hugged Xiao Chuchu and quietly perked up her ears, listening to her mumble the improved textile technology. Originally, Concubine Liu was not a person with photographic memory. Hearing it once, she wouldn''t be able to remember the improved technology. But with the little princess in her arms, her memory power today seemed to have increased by more than double. The spinning, weaving techniques, and the key points of loom modification that the little princess was murmuring, she remembered them all! * In the Cining Pce, the Empress Dowager was chatting with the Empress. The Empress was gentle and respectful, but her words wereced with knives, "Mother, your subject has not been strict in managing the rear pce. Fucha has used Concubine Liu, and she has been demoted to Rank Noble." One sentence was enough to make people dislike Concubine Liu. It takes two to tango. Concubine Liu was upright and her conduct was straight, how could Fucha Consort just pick on her? "Empress, you must properly educate thedies of the pce." The Empress Dowager could not help but also have a rather unfavorable impression of Concubine Liu. She did not like the bustle of the coronation ceremony and did not attend the imperial banquet. But the Empress Dowager had also heard that Concubine Liu and her mother had received the Emperor''s six-dish award. The Emperor was not nearly as respectful towards her, his foster mother! To be honest, the Empress Dowager was a little envious. The Empress suppressed her smile, wearing an expression of acknowledging her mistake. "This subject knows, and in the future will strictly discipline the pcedies to prevent any trouble from arising." "Mm-hmm." The Empress Dowager nodded sternly, "You must carry yourself like an Empress. Punish those who make mistakes, and I will back you up." But it wasn''t long before a pce maid hurriedly came to report. "Your Majesty the Empress Dowager, Concubine Liu requests an audience." The Empress Dowager was taken aback, and the Empress was also somewhat perplexed. "What does Concubine Liu want?" Previously she was just a consort, without the status toe pay respects to the Empress Dowager. Now that she has been elevated in rank, this is the first time she hase to the Cining Pce. The pce maid respectfully replied, "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu says she found a method in her studies that can improve the efficiency of silk reeling, thread separation, and weaving." "She knows that Your Majesty the Empress Dowager, like the former Emperor, has always cared deeply about the livelihood of themon people and silkworm cultivation." "So Concubine Liu found this technique and immediately came to inform you." The Empress Dowager was taken aback, but then overjoyed! In the past, she had followed the former Emperor, presiding over the Spring Silkworm Festival and even personally supervising thedies-in-waiting in silkworm cultivation and weaving. In recent years, as she had grown old, she had begun to enjoy a more leisurely life, but she had always remained deeply concerned about the holding of the Spring Silkworm Festival. "What a good child, this Concubine Liu is such a good child, quickly have her brought in!" The Empress: "????" Her expression suddenly became unpleasant. Chapter 39 Chapter 39 Cining Pce. The Empress Dowager eagerly epted the papers and a few books handed to her by Concubine Liu. Of course, she didn''t have time to flip through the thick stack of books, and could only focus on the few pages written by Concubine Liu herself. It mentioned a new silk reeling technique, using hot water and salt to elerate the separation of silkworm silk. Upon seeing this, the Empress Dowager hurriedly sent pce maids to try it out. Further on, it was about a new silk winding machine, "Can it really wind five strands at the same time just by stepping on the pedal?" This speed was simply three to five times faster than before, and it saved manpower! "Good, good, good, quickly send this to the Emperor." The Empress Dowager couldn''t wait, and told her personal attendant to go find the Emperor immediately. "But the Emperor hasn''t finished his morning court yet," the attendant persuaded. "Then you go wait there, and as soon as the Emperor is done, show it to him and tell the Ministry of Works to make it right away." The Empress Dowager couldn''t wait at all, her well-preserved face had some wrinkles around the corners of her eyes, which were flushed with excitement at the moment. "Three days, no, have them make it as soon as possible, and bring one here for me to try first." The Empress Dowager said, urging the attendant to go. After the other person left, the Empress Dowager looked at the few weaving methods again and again. Then she looked at Concubine Liu, whose gaze was so warm and a little ashamed. "Just now, the Empress told me about your matter with Concubine Yu, and I thought you werepeting and causing trouble with that Concubine Yu, oh, I was wrong about you, Concubine Liu." The Empress Dowager was surprisingly in-spoken, telling the truth. Concubine Liu was taken aback. The Empress sitting beside her became even more flushed with anger. "Concubine Liu, you are a good one." The Empress Dowager reached a firm conclusion. "When I first married the former Emperor, he was still the Crown Prince. At that time, Emperor Xiaozong said that themon people mainly relied on farming and weaving to make a living. So we imperial descendants must not forget the importance of farming and weaving." "When the former Emperor was still alive, I personally wove cloth every year." The Empress''s expression became even uglier. Was the Empress Dowager hinting at her? Implying that she, as the Empress, had not done a good job, not as well as Concubine Liu? The Empress gritted her teeth and red at Concubine Liu, seeing her still so obedient, her heart even more unbearable. She never imagined that Concubine Liu, who seemed low-key, was actually a fierce tiger that didn''t roar. "Concubine Liu, why did you suddenly start reading books and researching weaving?" the Empress asked with ulterior motives. "Before, this pce hadn''t heard that you were interested in these things." The Empress Dowager also became curious and looked over. Concubine Liu frowned slightly, but she had already prepared her heart, "Recently, the Yellow River has flooded, and I am worried that the people will have no shelter and will find it difficult to get through the winter." "I thought that I could weave cloth for them to make winter clothes, since I don''t have much to do in the pce anyway." The Empress Dowager heard this, and the admiration in her eyes was almost impossible to conceal, "You are a kind-hearted person." Concubine Liu''s expression was natural, "In addition to showing the Empress Dowager the improved weaving techniques, I also thought that the Empress Dowager enjoys high prestige among the people, especially among the women." "I''ve been wondering if I could borrow the Empress Dowager''s influence to get the women in themon people to join in making these winter clothes." The Empress Dowager heard this and was overjoyed. This was a great opportunity to enhance her prestige! Normally, when themon people mentioned the imperial family, they only thought of the Emperor and the former Emperor, and never mentioned the imperial consorts, let alone the Empress Dowager... But why? She had gone from being the Crown Princess to the Empress, and now to the Empress Dowager, and had not neglected her responsibilities. If she followed Concubine Liu''s suggestion and made winter clothes for the refugees, she would also be praised by the people and written into the history books! "Good, good, good!" The Empress Dowager became more and more excited, "Concubine Liu, what you said is so good, this is exactly what I think too, the relief of the refugees through winter clothing, I will help you!" The Empress Dowager immediately pushed the Empress aside and started discussing enthusiastically with Concubine Liu about which first-rank and second-rankdies could be summoned to mobilize the wives of the officials to work together and donate money! The Empress was about to wring the handkerchief in her hand to shreds! What''s going on with this Xiao family? In Chonghua Pce, Xiao Chuchu was being embraced by her brother Cheng Qian, and just blinked her eyes. While watching the live broadcast from afar in Cining Pce, she was shocked and scolded. ¡¾How did my mothere up with this improved weaving technique?¡¿ ¡¾System, are you reliable? What did you give me?¡¿ What is a system? The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, his face was puzzled. Is this something from the immortal realm? ¡¾It seems the technology the system gave me is something that theborers of this era cane up with with a little effort.¡¿ ¡¾That''s right, in the five thousand years of Chinese history, there must be so many wisdom crystallizations.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu realized this after thinking about it a bit. The system didn''t give her something out of thin air, something that never existed before. Instead, it was weaving machines and military formations that existed in history, only more advanced than the current time. ording to the historical trajectory, they would eventually be invented. ¡¾I know, my fragrance has just been upgraded, and anyone within one step of me can concentrate their attention and double their intelligence.¡¿ ¡¾My mother has be smarter!¡¿ The Fifth Prince who was holding Chuchu was dumbfounded. His sister''s fragrance had such an effect? No wonder he just felt that he could memorize the books better, and the abstruse articles that the teacher taught the Eldest Prince, which he and the Sixth Prince had found difficult to understand before, he nowprehended. The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, holding his sister, suddenly felt his arms heavy. As if he was holding a priceless treasure, a blessing from heaven. This must be the sister he had cultivated for many lifetimes! The Fifth Prince gently adjusted his movements and breathing, not daring to disturb his sister. Xiao Chuchu''s spection also became a little bolder, ¡¾Hmm, it must be because of the fragrance.¡¿ ¡¾Just now, Mother wanted to make winter clothes and research weaving, and after smelling my scent, she directly came up with the weaving technology of decades in the future!¡¿ ¡¾Makes sense, makes sense~¡¿ ¡¾In the future, I''ll have to stick close to Mother more, and Brother and Grandfather too~¡¿ The Fifth Prince in his heart nodded repeatedly, he would just study by his sister''s side in the future~ ¡¾Ah, Mother has been rewarded by the Empress Dowager - hehe, the Empress is so angry that her face has turned green.¡¿ The Fifth Prince raised the corners of his mouth. "Fifth Prince, it''s time to go to the Imperial Study," the apanying little eunuch reminded. The Fifth Prince sighed, reluctantly letting go of his sister. If only he could take his sister to the Imperial Study. That way, after reading the articles once, he would probably understand and memorize them all. The Fifth Prince thought so, and had the little eunuch prepare the books, then he kissed his sister''s little hand and watched the nanny take Chuchu away before going to the Imperial Study. The Imperial Study has not been peacefultely. As soon as the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian entered, he saw the Third Prince sitting in thest row - the natural son of Consort Fu Cha, and the new emperor that his sister Chuchu said had killed him out of jealousy. Cheng Qian immediately felt a little unsettled. But when he reached his seat, he heard the voice of the Fourth Prince and the Seventh Prince. "Third Brother, how is your mother? Who would have thought, your mother was originally the Consort Fu Cha, and your maternal grandfather was the eminent Grand Preceptor, but she was punished by the Emperor and demoted to a concubine with the name of ''Yu''." "Haha, my mother said the Emperor was calling your mother and you stupid, your whole family is stupid!" The Fourth Prince and the Third Prince had always been close before. But now that Consort Fu Cha had fallen, Consort Li obviously didn''t miss the chance to mock them. The Fourth Prince also followed suit, "My mother said, in the future I should y with you less, lest I be as stupid as a wooden block like you." The Third Prince clenched his fists, his whole body trembling. But he bit his lip and didn''t stand up. His mother, the Imperial Concubine, had already fallen out of favor with the Emperor. If he caused more trouble and angered the Emperor again, it was possible that his mother would be sent to the Cold Pce. In recent days, not only the Fourth Prince, but even the usually respectful eunuchs, pce maids, and even the tutors in the Imperial Study had started to look down on him. This is the Imperial Pce! Familial love does not exist here! The Third Prince painfully closed his eyes. The Fourth Prince suddenly snatched the books from the Third Prince''s desk and threw them on the floor. "Since you''re stupid anyway, you don''t need to read." The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, turned back, his brows furrowed. "Fourth Brother, that''s enough!" The entire Imperial Study fell silent for a moment. Cheng Qian, who was usually mature beyond his years, had a cold expression and rarely spoke to the other Princes. But today was different. The other Princes looked at him in surprise. "Fifth Brother, are you actually defending him? The Third Prince used to bully you all the time." The Fourth Prince sneered. Cheng Qian closed his eyes. ording to his sister''s words, the national power of Jing Country was only one-fifth that of Yuan Mu Country! In the ranking of neighboring countries, Jing Country''s national power was outside the top twenty. These Princes didn''t know how to strive for progress, only how to bicker and be jealous of each other, unable to bear to see their brothers doing well! If the Princes were like this, what about the sons of the other officials? Surely they were all just dissolute young masters! If everyone was like this, if every household was like this, with each generation worse than thest, then Jing Country was truly going to fall! "I won''t help anyone." Cheng Qian said coldly, opening his book. "I only know that this is the time for us to study." * After the morning court session, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou happily headed towards the Donghua Pce. "Go to Concubine Liu''s ce. She must be waiting for news from her father." But before he could take a step, he was stopped by Wei Zheng. "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu is at the Empress Dowager''s, saying she is making winter clothes for the refugees." The Emperor was shocked, then smiled. "The Liu family, every one of them, truly cares for the people." This Concubine Liu, if she were a man, would certainly be a good official. He admired her even more. "Then I''ll go to the Imperial Study." He wanted to check on his sons'' studies. The Liao King''s matter had made him even more vignt and focused on the education of the Princes. Soon, the Emperor stood outside the window of the Imperial Study and heard the Fifth Prince''s voice. "I won''t help anyone." "We, as Princes, are not studying and writing here topete for status among our brothers." "It is so that one day, when the Yellow River floods again, we will know what to do." "It is so that one day, we can drive away the enemies who dare to offend our Jing Country." "It is so that one day, people will hear the name of Jing Country and be afraid, and dare not bully us!" "If you, Fourth Brother, have already achieved this, then no matter how you and the Third Brother fight, even if youe to blows, I wouldn''t care to intervene." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was momentarily stunned. Listening to the Fifth Prince''s words outside the window, he couldn''t help but feel his whole body stirred, his blood boiling! What a wonderful goal - "So that people will hear the name of Jing Country and be afraid"! * [Ding, your elder brother, the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, has risen to be the Prince most favored in Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s heart, ranking Number 1.] [Please continue to maintain this, you have the chance to inherit the throne.] Xiao Chuchu was idly nursing, when she was suddenly startled by the system notification. Chapter 40 Chapter 40 "Third Brother, Fourth Brother, if you have time to argue, you should read more books instead." "Have you memorized today''s books yet?" In the study hall, Cheng Qian frowned as he admonished the Third Prince and Fourth Prince equally. He normally didn''t like to meddle in others'' affairs, but when he thought of his sister''s words, he couldn''t ignore it. The princes had the best teachers - the Grand Preceptor, the Hanlin Academy, the top scorers, the second scorers - they had the finest teachers in the entire country. If that was the case, and they still couldn''t study diligently and learn something, how would the national strength of Jing Country ever catch up to others in the future? Whoever became the new emperor, as his sister had said, they would ruin the country within a few years! Thinking about this, Fifth Prince Cheng Qian looked at Third Prince Cheng Qing with aplex gaze, picking up the books that had been thrown on the floor. He walked over and mmed them down on his desk, "Read!" His sister had said the new emperor would be the one born to Imperial Concubine Fu Cha. Cheng Qian clearly remembered his sister saying that the new emperor would be jealous of him for being both literary and martial, so he would have Cheng Qian killed. So when Cheng Qian saw Third Brother in this idle state, he felt very displeased. "You read the books well and stand up for yourself, then no one will be able to surpass you or bully you and your mother!" Only the weak would be jealous and intolerant of others! Cheng Qian thought, and so he despised this Third Brother. His tone became even more stern, "Stop thinking all kinds of nonsense and just staring at others all the time." "You need to strengthen yourself." Cheng Qian said this and returned to his seat huffily. Even if what his sister said hadn''t happened yet, just thinking about it made him angry. His speech had made the entire study hallpletely silent. Everyone was astonished. "Fifth Brother, what did you eat today? Have you gone mad?" The Fourth Prince couldn''t believe it, "You''re even lecturing your own brother!" Cheng Qian continued reading his book, not even acknowledging him. He had said what he needed to say. Sixth Prince Cheng Shan admiringly gave him a thumbs up, "Fifth Brother, you sure are bold." Cheng Qian nced at him irritably, "I only talk like this to my brothers." The Fourth Prince red, his face reddening with anger. But the Third Prince Cheng Qing, who had been pped on the desk with books and scolded by Cheng Qian, had aplex expression. In the past, he had often looked down on his low-born Fifth Brother, constantly trying to make him his underling. His mother Concubine Fu Cha had also said that among these brothers, only the eldest born to the Empress wouldpete with him for the position of Crown Prince. The others were not to be feared, as they were of low birth, but he had to be wary of them if they were good at studying and archery, otherwise they would be too capable for him to control when he inherited the throne. Cheng Qing had been hearing this from his mother Concubine Fu Cha since he was old enough to understand. His mother often said it would be best if all these brothers were raised to be useless. So before, when Fifth Brother''s studies were good, his mother Fu Cha had also made him secretly wary of Fifth Brother. But now... Third Prince Cheng Qing heard someone say something different from what his mother Concubine Fu Cha had told him for the first time. Cheng Qing hesitated, then hoarsely spoke up, "Fifth Brother, do you think... I should also study hard? What if I end up better than you?" Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, almost without hesitation, nodded. "Yes, of course. If all my brothers and I are strong, that would be the best." That way, after their father the Emperor passed away, no matter who became the new emperor, they would be extremely powerful. The emperor himself being strong meant he wouldn''t be constantly watching them brothers, watching the Liu Family. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian''s thinking was very clear. He felt like the fragrance of his sister just now had helped elevate his wisdom. For the first time, he felt he could see the problem so clearly. "It would be best if we were all as learned and skilled as our father the Emperor, both in literature and martial arts." Although Xiao Yunzhou loved cultivation and was gentle, it caused many ministers to dare to trample on him. But Xiao Yunzhou himself was the most outstanding among the previous generation of brothers, so he never really feared his brothers. After inheriting the throne, he also didn''t drive out and kill all his brothers and their families! Cheng Qian felt he had suddenly found the solution to avoid disaster. That was to urge these brothers, to make them strengthen themselves! "Fledglings fighting each other will only harm their own nest and cannot resist the attacks of snakes." Cheng Qian said this and then closed his mouth, resuming his reading. Third Prince Cheng Qing was stunned. Fifth Brother actually thought this way,pletely opposite to what his mother Concubine Fu Cha had told him - not to let the other brothers be too capable. For a moment, his thoughts were in chaos. "Fifth Brother, then... are you still willing to talk to me now that my mother has been demoted?" Cheng Qing asked, holding his breath. After his mother was demoted to Concubine Yu, she had been crying all day, throwing tantrums and objects in her pce. And when he came to the study hall, the once underling Fourth Brother yelled at him; the elder brother he had seen as a rival also avoided him... The Second Brother and Sixth Brother still kept their distance from him as well. Only Fifth Brother Cheng Qian... had just now spoken up to defend him, even mming the books down in front of him and telling him to read. Fifth Brother was still willing to interact with him? Cheng Qing''s expression was quite strange. "I wasn''t exactly good to you before, and you didn''t really talk to me either. Now that my mother has been demoted... you''re actually paying attention to me." "Why?" In the past, when the Second Brother''s mother was punished by the Empress Dowager, his mother had told him to stay away from the Second Brother, so he wouldn''t get implicated. Didn''t Concubine Liu teach Fifth Brother these things? "I''m not talking just to you," Fifth Prince Cheng Qian was a bit impatient. "I say the same thing to all my elder and younger brothers." Whoever became the new emperor, he would urge them to strive hard! Cheng Qing was stunned. Fifth Brother didn''t differentiate between them. These past few days, he had experienced so much cold treatment in the pce, with so many people being obsequious and distant. Only Fifth Brother, instead of bing worse, had actually improved in his attitude towards him. Fifth Brother wasn''t afraid of being implicated. "We are princes, if we don''t strive, then how can we expect the children ofmoners to do so? Only when we stand up will Jing Country be able to stand up!" And not be ruined. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian silently added this in his heart. "Wow, Fifth Brother, you''re really eloquent now," The Fourth Prince said in a mocking tone, "Have you grown wings because your mother was made Concubine Liu?" "Shut up!" Before the Fourth Prince could finish, Third Prince Cheng Qing suddenly stood up, harshly rebuking the Fourth Prince. "I am the elder brother, I am talking to Fifth Brother, what right do you as a younger brother have to butt in!" The Fourth Prince was stunned. "That''s right, shut up Fourth Brother," Sixth Prince Cheng Shan also echoed in agreement. The Fourth Prince was so angry he was panting. "Alright, alright, just wait and see!" Outside the study hall, The editors of the Hanlin Academy who hade to teach, stood nervously, not daring to make a sound. Standing with his hands behind his back outside the room was Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, his expression inscrutable. "Don''t tell them I was here," the Emperor turned and left. But he soon stopped, "Oh, and punish the Fourth Prince by having him copy the 14th chapter of the Analects of Confucius a hundred times." The 14th chapter of the Analects is about how the elder should love the younger, and the younger should respect the elder. The Hanlin Academy editor''s gaze flickered. The Emperor must think the Fourth Prince''s behavior was despicable,cking both the fraternal love of an elder brother towards the younger, and the respectful deference of a younger brother towards the elder. The Fourth Prince was likely no longer a contender for the position of Crown Prince. The Hanlin Academy editor quicklyposed himself and entered the study hall. * Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, slowly made his way back to the Chonghua Pce from the garden. Along the way, Wei Zheng smiled cheerfully, "Your Majesty, it seems Fifth Prince really reveres you, and even hopes his brothers will all be as capable as you." The inscrutable expression on Xiao Yunzhou''s face finally broke into a smile. He pointed a finger at Wei Zheng, "You''re the one who knows how to talk." He was extremely pleased, first being shaken by Fifth Prince Cheng Qian''s remarks about strengthening Jing Country through diligent study, then being delighted by Fifth Prince''s filial piety and admiration for him as the father Emperor. Now he truly felt at ease in both body and mind. "I really do have good vision." Fifth Prince was now the top candidate for the position of Crown Prince! "Wei Zheng, the basic renovations of the Qianqing Pce have beenpleted. Now you must go and hide my imperial edict on the selection of the crown prince beneath the card. Post guards to watch over it day and night, and allow no one to approach and read it privately!" Wei Zheng was startled. The Fifth Prince and Concubine Liu''s family were about to soar up to the heavens! "This servant will go at once!" he replied. * [Congrattions, host. Your legitimate elder brother has obtained the position of crown prince.] Xiao Chuchuan stared in shock at the system''s live broadcast of Xiao Yunzhou returning to rest in the Chonghua Pce. Soon, Concubine Liu returned from the Empress Dowager''s pce, preparing to continue her work on improving sericulture techniques, when she heard her daughter''s thoughts. [My brother has actually be the crown prince.] [As long as he doesn''t make any mistakes, then I will be the Empress Dowager right away!] Concubine Liu nearly stumbled at the doorway of the bedchamber. What? Chapter 41 Chapter 41 Concubine Liu finished washing her hands, holding her daughter. She waspletely stunned. [I never thought my brother would scold the arrogant and haughty Fourth Prince so fiercely, and then lecture the new crown prince, Third Prince Cheng Qing, so harshly.] [And then, Third Prince Cheng Qing, the new crown prince, seemed to have been conquered by my brother.] [Wow, is he a masochist?] Concubine Liu: "..." Strange things happen every year, but this year there are especially many! Isn''t the future crown prince, Third Prince, always arrogant and overbearing? Now he has been scolded by her son, and cured of that? And he even fell for her son? How strange. There are all kinds of people in the world! Concubine Liu''s mouth twitched as she listened. Xiao Chuchu was still gleefully mocking, [When my brother was scolding them, the Emperor Father was standing outside the Qianqing Pce, and heard everything.] Concubine Liu''s heart skipped a beat. The Emperor is also a suspicious person. After hearing this, how could he tolerate it? Would he me her son Cheng Qian for being too outspoken and disrespectful to his brothers? [Unexpectedly, the more fiercely my brother scolded them inside, the more the Emperor Father outside enjoyed listening.] [He then decided to pass the throne to my brother!] Concubine Liu: "???" She couldn''t figure it out at all, how could there be such good news? [The letter of crown prince was hung behind the Qianqing Pce que, with my brother''s name on it.] [Oh, my brother must continue to maintain this, before ascending the throne!] Concubine Liu forgot to breathe as she listened. [In the future, the maternal n must also be more careful. It''s difficult to be a prince''s mother, and even more so to be a crown prince''s mother.] [Since ancient times, there have been many crown princes who were harmed or demoted, and their maternal ns were confiscated.] Concubine Liu''s heart was heavy again. This path ahead is getting harder and harder. But in the future... will she be the Empress Dowager? Xiao Chuchu was being held by her mother, and soon noticed her mother''s expression bing increasingly strange. Wanting tough but not daring to, wanting to hold it in but unable to. * Not long after, the Imperial Censor Concubine Liu''s father, went to the Yan Region and happened to discover Liao King''s plot to rebel, and brought him back to the capital. This news quickly spread throughout the entire pce. Kunning Pce. The Empress''s face looked unpleasant as she looked at her mother. "Fortunately, I didn''t give Concubine Liu a hard time that day at the pce banquet, otherwise the Emperor would have certainly embarrassed me." Now she knew why the Emperor had bestowed the dishes that day. If she had made things difficult for Concubine Liu and Madam Liu that day, she would have been in big trouble, certainly scolded by the Emperor! No wonder the Fucha family had all been demoted. The Empress thought and felt quite clever, "Father is really something, howe the Liu family discovered Liao King''s rebellion, such a big event, but didn''t send someone to tell me in time? They almost caused me to make a mistake." She finished speaking and found her mother''s face embarrassed. "This, your father doesn''t seem to know either." The Empress was puzzled, "Father has so many students scattered throughout the court, how could he not know?" "Don''t mention it, the Emperor was furious about this matter and scolded all the officials." Lady Tong shook her head and sighed, "Your father told me to tell you that the Liu family discovered Liao King''s rebellion in advance, avoiding disaster, making the other officials seem... seem useless." "The Emperor wants to secretly appoint the crown prince, without informing the officials who he is, and no one can stop him." The Empress took a deep breath, her face unpleasant. But she soon regained her smile. "Even if other princes'' names are written now, they still have to be able tost until the Emperor''s old age." "Hasn''t there been many crown princes who made mistakes in the past?" The Empress smiled. Lady Tong nodded, "Yes, you must keep the First Prince diligent, not cking off, obedient to the Emperor and Empress Dowager, and caring for his younger brothers. With time, there may still be a chance!" The Empress nodded. Concubine Liu, Fifth Prince. The days are still long, and in the future, one never knows who will prevail. * In the study, the tutor announced the end of the ss. The princes each went to their mother''s pce to pay respects. As soon as they reached the intersection, they encountered the little eunuchsing back from the kitchen with desserts. "This is what the Emperor specially prepared in the Imperial Kitchen for the princes to enjoy." Wei Zheng, walking at the back, respectfully said, "The princes should have it quickly." "Wow," Sixth Prince Cheng Shan, hearing there were delicious things, was excited and couldn''t wait to lift the lid, "What did Father Emperor get good news about? What is it, let me see." The smiling but silent Wei Zheng''s gaze fell on Fifth Prince Cheng Qian. The Emperor''s reward was naturally because of Fifth Prince. First, his maternal grandfather had captured the Liao King, establishing a great merit. Then, Fifth Prince''s words about studying for the country. The Emperor decided to reward his sons, each receiving something. Because the Emperor felt that Fifth Prince was right, he wanted to make his sons study harder and strive for excellence! "The princes are all growing, and with their hard work day and night, they need to eat more. The Emperor is concerned about the princes'' arduous studies, and specially consulted the Imperial Academy of Medicine to make these nourishing desserts." Eating well can help them study more. Wei Zheng smiled and introduced, "There are chrysanthemum cakes, apricot and jujube paste cakes..." Sixth Prince Cheng Shan leaned forward to take a look. The First Prince smiled and let the servants take it, leading the way in thanking, "Thank you, Father Emperor, Wei Gong has worked hard." The princes all nodded and smiled at Wei Zheng. But Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, after nodding, frowned and stood with his hands behind his back in a serious manner. He didn''t quite like these sweet and greasy things. Pinching his nose, he couldn''t even eat them. His little sister was still young, her teeth not even grown out yet, she couldn''t eat them either. His mother also didn''t particrly like sweets. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian thought he should have the little eunuch send his portion of the desserts to his gluttonous Sixth Brother. But he then heard the greetings of the pce maid Qiuli by his mother''s side, "This servant greets the princes." Fifth Prince Cheng Qian paused, turning around to see Qiuli and the nanny holding Chuchu,ing out to take a walk in the sun. His face immediately lit up with a smile. He had just heard from his sister''s heart that children should go out more to soak in the sun, so their bones will grow tall. Cheng Qian immediately bid farewell to his brothers, "I''ll take Third Sister for a walk, you brothers can go first." "Little Zhong, give my portion of the desserts to -" He gestured to Sixth Prince. But halfway through, he saw the swaddled Xiao Chuchu stretch her neck, curiously peering into the food box. [Oh, it''s apricot and jujube cake, Mother also ate this before, it''s very sweet and a bit cloying.] [My Fifth Brother definitely doesn''t like to eat this.] Xiao Chuchu thought to herself. Cheng Qian''s face immediately softened with tenderness. His little sister already knew his preferences. This little fairy was still concerned about her big brother. His heart felt warm and fuzzy. But soon, Cheng Qian heard the follow-up of his sister''s thoughts and was taken aback. [Ah, our Emperor Father really cultivates too casually, he doesn''t even know what his own sons like. No wonder the crown prince he raises can''t do anything! Among the princes, only Third Prince likes sweet things. The others all dislike eating sweets. Even Sixth Prince likes to eat salty or mildly sweet things.] Cheng Qian was shocked, involuntarily looking at the previously arrogant and proud Third Brother. Third Brother actually likes sweets? He looked at the gluttonous Sixth Brother Cheng Shan, and sure enough, saw him eagerly open the food box, but after lifting the lid, he pressed his lips together without further action,pletely unlike his usual impatient manner to dig in. It turns out Sixth Brother also has things he doesn''t like to eat. Cheng Qian''s outstretched hand became a bit stiff. He almost gave his very sweet portion to Sixth Brother to eat. [This walnut cake in the food box is not bad, not too sweet, with a slight osmanthus fragrance. Sixth Prince should like it.] Cheng Qian took a deep breath. The First and Second Princes had already left. He quickly redirected his outstretched hand. "Sixth Brother, you take the walnut cake, I don''t like these sweets." "And that apricot and jujube paste cake, Third Brother, it''s yours, this younger brother really can''t eat the sweet stuff." Sixth Prince''s eyes lit up. The Third Prince had already walked three steps away, when he suddenly stopped. He turned back, somewhat surprised. How did the Fifth Brother... know that he loved to eat date paste the most? The Third Prince''s heart was instantly filled with warmth. Chapter 42 Chapter 42 In the Imperial Garden, Xiao Chuchu watched the retreating figure of the Third Prince, still straining her neck. "It seems like the Third Prince has truly fallen for my brother." "Unexpectedly, my brother threw the sweet pastries he dislikes at him to eat, and then scolded him harshly in front of everyone, but the Third Prince still thinks he is the best brother." Fifth Prince Cheng Qian had only taken a few steps when he was startled by his sister''s thoughts, nearly stumbling. What? Is Third Brother that strange? The more he is scolded, the happier he bes? Luckily, Fifth Prince Cheng Qian usually had a mature demeanor and maintained a poker face no matter the situation, or else his surprise would have shown. He really didn''t expect this. "Brother, you should scold the Third Prince more often in the future. Who knows, his affection for you might just skyrocket." "Oh, and the braised pork at the Study Pavilion at noon that you''ve always found too sweet to eat a bite of." "Just give it to the Third Prince from now on." "..." Fifth Prince Cheng Qian was both amused and perplexed. Is it really that simple? Scolding someone isn''t that easy, is it? The new emperor was described as muddled and ruthless by his sister. He had long wanted to scold him himself! Even if this world has changed and Third Brother can''t be emperor, he still couldn''t help but want to vent his anger for the sake of his sister''s words about the Liu family''s extermination. Thinking about it, Cheng Qian stopped in his tracks and spoke to the little eunuch beside him. "Go, go tell my Third Brother." "Has he finished reciting the essay the tutor assigned? If not, how dare he go back and rest! Uneptable!" "If he can''t even set an example for his younger brother, who will treat him like an elder brother!" The little eunuch was dumbfounded. * Concubine Yu''s Pce. "Mother, I''m back. What did you use today?" Third Prince Cheng Qing, carrying a box of pastries, came to visit his mother, Concubine Fucha. Boom! Before he even entered, he heard the sound of a vase breaking from within the pce. "That wench, the Liu family must have deliberately harmed me!" "Knowing that Liao King rebelled, she hid it from me and deliberately set a trap, letting me go andin to my Imperial Brother the Emperor! So that I would be punished, those damned Lius!" Third Prince Cheng Qing was startled. Liao King? His father''s uncle, his grandfather''s generation, attempted to rebel? He hadn''t heard about this incident at the Study Pavilion today. "Cheng Qing, you''re back," Concubine Fucha saw her son and threw herself at him, tears streaming down her face, with hatred in her eyes, "That wretched Concubine Liu is so malicious." "And that Fifth Prince she bore is no good either!" "You must be careful at the Study Pavilion in the future, they must be plotting to harm you!" Cheng Qing''s face suddenly changed. In his mind, the scenes from the Study Pavilion today shed one by one... "You must beware of that wretched Concubine Liu and her family, they are all evil-minded!" No, that''s not true. Everyone had ignored him, even mocking him. Only his Fifth Brother stood up, protecting him, telling him to study. Cheng Qing suddenly looked up, "Mother, Fifth Brother is not as you say. He is a good one, and has treated me well." Concubine Fucha: "???" What? Her son said what? Concubine Fucha, grabbing her son''s arm, almost thought she had heard wrong. "Cheng Qing, you are young, you don''t know people''s true hearts." "Which prince among them doesn''t want to inherit the throne? To be emperor is to be above all others, and if they can''t, then their life and death will be in others'' hands!" Fucha crouched down, persuading her son earnestly, "You don''t know that when I was punished, that Concubine Liu was in the side pce of your father the Emperor." "This time the Liu family discovered Liao King''s rebellion, they must have schemed against me, deliberately letting me see him with the imperial guards, setting a trap to have me go andin, so that I would incur your father the Emperor''s displeasure." "How could Fifth Prince possibly be truly good to you? Wake up!" "He wants us all to fall, so he can step on us to be the Crown Prince!" Third Prince Cheng Qing frowned as he looked at his mother. Before, he would believe whatever his mother said. But today, after experiencing the incident at the Study Pavilion, he now has doubts. Carefully pondering it, he felt that his mother''s words were full of loopholes. "How did the Liu family know that Mother would go to Qianqing Pce that night, and how did they design it in advance for Mother to go andin to the Emperor?" Third Prince frowned. Concubine Fucha''s breathing hitched. "That Concubine Liu was in the side pce, how does that prove she harmed you by getting you confined? Wasn''t it your uncle who first presented some unknown Taoist priest to the injured Emperor, angering him?" The more Third Prince thought about it, the more it didn''t seem right. "Cheng Qing, you''re actually defending them?" Concubine Fucha was stunned. "The only ones who want the best for you in this world are the Fucha family!" "Everyone else wants you to fail, wants you to learn nothing and be a waste, to be despised by your father the Emperor, and have nothing to do with the throne!" What nonsense!? Cheng Qing frowned, "That''s not how it is." His Fifth Brother is not like that, his Fifth Brother today even threw the book at his desk, telling him to study! Especially when he thought about what Cheng Qian said at the Study Pavilion today. Why do the Princes study? It''s not for sibling rivalry, nor is it for their father the Emperor. -- It''s for the future, for them to together defeat all enemies who dare to offend Jing Country! -- It''s for the future, so that people will fear the name of Jing Country, and no one dares to bully it! As Third Prince thought about it, his blood started to boil, "Fifth Brother is not as Mother thinks, he wants me to do well." Concubine Fucha was lost for words. Her son has gone mad! Brainwashed by Fifth Prince Cheng Qian and the Liu family! "So Liao King actually rebelled..." Third Prince mused. Fifth Brother is right. Liao King''s rebellion shows that he feels the Emperor and these Princes are all easy to bully! Thinks the Emperor and these Princes are too weak, thinks the current ministers of the Jing Country court are ipetent, that''s why he dares to rebel at this moment! Now recalling Fifth Brother Cheng Qian''s words, he felt they made a lot of sense. If they were strong, strong enough to make others fear them, would Liao King have the guts to rebel? Thinking this way, Third Prince felt that what his mother used to say, that Princes must fight to the death, hateful enough to turn everyone else into useless trash except themselves, was very wrong. "Mother, the Emperor''s punishment of you for being confined was not without reason." "As someone close to the Emperor, you should have advised him not to indulge in Taoist practices and focus on state affairs. How could you let your uncle present that Taoist priest?" Through Fifth Brother''s enlightenment, Third Prince now thinks that Liao King''s rebellion is because the Emperor was too ck before! Not admonishing, but instead enabling the Emperor''s negligence, his mother being punished, was not unjust at all! If his mother could supervise and urge the Emperor to improve, like how Fifth Brother urged himself, the current rebellion incident would not have happened. Looking at his mother, Third Prince sighed, "Mother, don''t always think others are wrong, you should also examine yourself more." Concubine Fucha: "???" She took a step back, feeling like the sky was about to copse. Her son''s brain is broken! Not helping himself, but helping others instead! "Third Prince, stop talking, look at how you''ve upset your mother," the personal maid of Concubine Fuchaforted, having the kitchen prepare some osmanthus congee for him. "You haven''t finished your studies yet, and your mother has already had the kitchen prepare the osmanthus congee for you. Your mother is doing this for your own good." Hearing this, Third Prince turned to look at the little eunuch at the door, holding the food box in his hands. It turns out that his Fifth Brother knew what he liked to eat and specially left it for him, truly caring for him, just like how his mother prepared the osmanthus congee for him. Third Prince couldn''t help but curve his lips into a smile. Even though in the past he had wrongly listened to his mother''s words and bullied his few brothers. Fifth Brother still respects him as the elder brother, and still wants to do good for him. So what he said at the Study Pavilion was all sincere. Thinking about it, Third Prince Cheng Qing''s smile grew wider, and he no longer talked about his mother. "Mother, making mistakes and being able to correct them is the greatest virtue." "Starting today, you and I will study hard and strive to improve together." Concubine Fucha felt like she was about to faint. * Three dayster, Imperial Censor Liu Wenchang, returned triumphantly to the capital. Without dy, he handed the Liao King over to the Ministry of Justice for interrogation, and immediately went to the pce to audience with Xiao Yunzhou. After Mr. Liu recounted the events along the way and the preliminary statements from the Liao King, Xiao Yunzhou smiled and told him to go see his daughter Concubine Liu and his grandchildren. "Mr. Liu, you have worked hard. After the interrogation of the Liao King isplete, We shall bestow rewards upon you and Commander Pang together." Mr. Liu immediately bowed and said, "It is all thanks to Your Majesty''s wisdom." Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand and smiled, "Now the Little Princess''s health has not yet fully recovered, and the Imperial Astronomical Bureau says it''s best not to move her for a year. We can only inconvenience Concubine Liu by letting her continue to reside in the side pce of Donghua Pce." "Next year at this time, We shall have the Imperial Astronomical Bureau choose a good ce for her." Mr. Liu heard this and nodded. Of course his granddaughter must live in the best ce. "Alright, you go to Concubine Liu''s ce. She was quite frightened this time as well. We shalle dine with you allter." Mr. Liu''s face lit up with a brilliant smile as he left the Emperor''s study and hurried to his daughter''s residence. Concubine Wei had already learned of Wei Zheng''s news and was staying in her own room, avoiding Mr. Liu. So Mr. Liu proceeded smoothly, without encountering anyone, straight to the front of his daughter''s pce. However, as soon as he stepped inside, he nearly stumbled. "Ah, Grandfather is back!" Little Chuchu was the first to see him. "Chuchu has missed you so!" Hearing the adorable voice of his granddaughter, Liu Wenchang still wasn''t quite used to it. But he quickly broke into a full smile, his face creasing up. His little granddaughter was truly an adorable treasure. He wished he could snatch her away from the Emperor''s household and bring her back home. But Liu Wenchang had only taken a few steps when he was stunned. "Hehe, Grandfather has aplished a great feat this time, but he doesn''t know there''s an even bigger joyous news!" "My fifth brother has been chosen as the Crown Prince, it''s written in the secret edict behind the que in the Qianqing Pce!" Liu Wenchang was dumbfounded: "!?" His Liu family had been farmers for generations, and he himself had only risen to the rank of Fourth-Rank Official - their ancestral graves were just starting to smoke. And now what...? His grandson is going to be the Crown Prince, the future Emperor? In the future, he will be the Emperor''s father-inw, the Emperor''s revered uncle? Chapter 43 Chapter 43 His Grandson Will Ascend the Throne!? The Liu Family Will Be the Imperial n!? From Now On, Under One Surname, Above All Others!? Master Liu was so excited that he almost fell over, his old face turning red! Ancestors, the Liu Family has made it big! Master Liu looked at his daughter, Concubine Liu, who was watering flowers on the balcony, then at his grandson Chengqian, who was holding the young Miss''s hand and reading. Heavens, this is such a joyous event, and only he knows about it!? His daughter and grandson have not heard the young Miss''s thoughts, they still do not know of this great news? Oh, what a pity. Such a delightful surprise, with no one to share it, no one to tell, life... is as lonely as the snow! Master Liumented, wishing he could rush home right away to tell his wife. But just as he was overjoyed, he heard the tender-faced young Miss sigh again from the cradle, {Ah, but there is nothing to be happy about, our Jing Country is about to perish, its national strength is only a fraction of Yuan Mu Country.} {My brother is inheriting a mess.} Master Liu of the Liu Family was ted one moment, then sunk down the next. He was dumbfounded. His beloved grandson, the future ruler of a fallen country!? What a joke! Then the crown prince is better off given to someone else! It is clearly a hot potato! {The country''s downfall is understandable, our military is weak, and the civil officials are ipetent too, internal and external troubles, and we don''t even have any silver.} {There are many corrupt officials, even richer than my emperor father! For example, my grandfather''s former superior, Ritual Master Xu of the Imperial Academy, he alone embezzled a full million taels of silver, hoarding over a hundred valuable calligraphy and paintings, who would have thought...} Master Liu of the Liu Family opened his mouth. The normallyposed Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince were both so startled that they almost dropped the watering can and book in their hands. Ritual Master Xu of the Imperial Academy, Master Liu''s superior of the past three years, had embezzled a million taels of silver? Master Liu almost thought he had heard wrong. He had never seen so much money in the Imperial Academy! {There are too many parents in this world willing to give up everything for their children.} {Many people have sent money to Ritual Master Xu.} Xiao Chuchu murmured, thinking about how in the original novel, after Yuan Mu Country invaded Jing Country, the Yuan King discovered that Jing Country''s treasury didn''t have much money, and was furious. As a result, the Yuan King ruthlessly executed a group of Jing Country officials, to vent his anger. Surprisingly, when these Jing Country officials'' families were looted, there was an unexpected delight. Ritual Master Xu of the Imperial Academy was one of them. {The result of looting their homes shocked even the Yuan King. Ritual Master Xu was frugal and in-living, spending his days in the bamboo garden, reciting poetry and drinking tea.} {But who would have thought, under that bamboo garden, after digging up the soil, there were boxes and boxes of silver, porcin, and jewelry. The people who went to loot spent a whole day counting, and found over a million taels worth of goods!} Master Liu reached out, steadying himself on the doorframe as he shakily walked into the inner room. Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince finally snapped out of their trance, getting up to greet him. "Father, you''re back, quickly, bring some tea." "Grandfather, are you well?" Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince''s expressions were not too good, ording to what Chuchu said, Master Liu used to work under such a corrupt person! For over three years, Master Liu didn''t even notice anything wrong with him. No wonder the emperor rated him as dull-witted. Master Liu used to even praise Ritual Master Xu as amiable and hands-on. Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince had veryplex expressions looking at Master Liu. "The young Miss is fine, how is she?" Master Liu forced a smile, his body already stiff. He was sweating profusely on his back, what kind of people had he been working with all this time! Master Liu suppressed the tumultuous waves in his heart, perking up his ears and sitting down on the empty seat closest to the young Miss''s rocking bed. As soon as he sat down, he caught a whiff of a fragrant scent. {Ding, Liu Wenchang has entered your fragrance range.} {Liu Wenchang''s intelligence is 61, doubled to 122.} Xiao Chuchu was taken aback. The system has upgraded again? There was no such notification yesterday, but today she can even see everyone''s intelligence attributes after the skill is activated. Her grandfather''s intelligence, it''s really... not high. Just a little over 60. Xiao Chuchu closed her little eyes, her darkshes fluttering. {The fragrance enhancement has made my grandfather notice, now his intelligence has doubled, I hope he can uncover Ritual Master Xu''s greed for money.} Just as Master Liu was about to sit down, he hesitated. The baby powder scent on his granddaughter can make people smarter!? Is she some kind of immortal reincarnated? Amitabha! Master Liu couldn''t help but move closer to the rocking bed of his granddaughter. Xiao Chuchu was also muttering in her heart, {Although my grandfather is now an Imperial Censor, he has already left the Imperial Academy, but he still seems to asionally go to Ritual Master Xu''s bamboo garden pavilion to drink tea?} {Perhaps with higher intelligence, my grandfather can discover the irregrities in the garden.} {Ah, but my fragrance enhancement onlysts for a day.} Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince instantly tensed up, watching Master Liu touch the narcissus flowers on the table. Concubine Liu took a deep breath, carefully considering what to say, "Father, you have just returned from quelling the rebellion, in the eyes of others you must be a rising star at the imperial court. You are now standing at the eye of the storm." Hearing his mother say this, Fifth Prince secretly nodded. Thinking, he also spoke up, "What Mother said is true, I also heard the tutor in the study say, sess breeds failure." Master Liu of the Liu Family''s mouth twitched. Normally, when his daughter and grandson spoke like this, he might not have understood. But now, sitting beside his young granddaughter, he truly felt his intelligence increase! In an instant, he understood the underlying meaning in their words, "You''re worried that after I take the credit for quelling the rebellion, my foundation in the court will be shaky, and I''ll end up being resented by others?" Concubine Liu took a deep breath, her father really has be smarter! In that case, she''s been feeling that she can understand the weaving techniques in the books she''s been reading much fastertely, and even make leaps of understanding, is that also thanks to her daughter''s fragrance? Concubine Liu was both surprised and delighted, "Exactly, Father. Our Liu Family has no real backing in the court, you can''t stand alone." Master Liu of the Liu Family pped his thigh with an "Aiyo". "I understand, I''ll go reconnect with my old friends and superiors, have more tea with them." He was also thinking about how to find an excuse to quickly go visit his former superior Ritual Master Xu, and expose the man''s embezzlement! Now, the reason has presented itself. Master Liu, smelling the faint fragrance of his young granddaughter, instantly came up with a three-in-one n, "Mm, I''ll go visit my former superior Ritual Master Xuter." "First, to show the other officials that I, Liu Wenchang, have not be arrogant and aloof due to my recent sess." "Second, since the rebellious Prince Liao has involved some schrs in his schemes, I can go to the Imperial Academy and tell Ritual Master Xu to advise the students to steadfastly maintain their integrity and notmit any disloyal or unrighteous acts." "Third, Ritual Master Xu recently had a great-grandson, I missed the full moon ceremony. Now is a good time to pay a visit." Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince heard this, their eyes lighting up. Just as Chuchu had said, Master Liu has be smarter! They didn''t even need to suggest for him to go see Ritual Master Xu, he came up with the idea himself! "Yes, Father''s n is good." Concubine Liu immediately praised, "Let all the officials know that you have not be arrogant just because you''ve gained some sess." "Oh yes, I heard that Ritual Master Xu is quite close with a few other officials." She hinted. Master Liu naturally grasped the implication, thinking that those officials must have also bribed Ritual Master Xu with silver. The students, were they all bribing Ritual Master Xu with silver to get into the Imperial Academy? He pondered over the matter, with a pensive and enlightened expression, putting Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince''s minds at ease. At lunchtime, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou came and had a meal with them. Xiao Yunzhou spun around the room holding Xiao Chuchu, but s, Xiao Chuchu had been exhausted from her morning activities, participating in a raffle and studying the national strength, and had fallen asleep. Even the fragrance on her had faded, having been mingled with the scents of Concubine Liu, the Fifth Prince, and the Old Master of Liu Family. If one didn''t inspect closely, one wouldn''t even be able to detect it anymore. "Your Majesty, the young imperial princess is sleeping soundly, still growing," Concubine Liu said with concern, deeply fearing that the Emperor might want to wake her up. Xiao Yunzhou felt a bit regretful, but seeing his daughter''s rosy cheeks, he simply couldn''t bring himself to wake her up. "Let her sleep. Later, when she wakes up, have the nanny bring her to my study." He then instructed Wei Zheng, "Go fetch my sable cloak. In the future, when carrying the young imperial princess out, wrap her in it so she doesn''t catch a cold." Wei Zheng hurried toply. The Emperor lingered for a moment, then quickly left to deal with the aftermath of the Liao Prince. Master Liu also bid his daughter and grandson farewell without dy and rushed out of the pce straight to his home. In the front courtyard of the Liu Family, Old Madam Liu was still drying corn when he hurriedly urged her. "Quickly, quickly, prepare some celebratory gifts for me." "I must expose that corrupt official!" Old Madam Liu waspletely bewildered. Master Liu still lived in an isted corner of the capital city, with hardly any neighbors around. Nevertheless, he leaned in and lowered his voice to speak to Old Madam Liu. "Soon, you and I will go to Ritual Master Xu''s home. Just say you want to dig up some bamboo from his bamboo garden to eat." Chapter 44 Chapter 44 Master Liu hurried into the courtyard of the Liu family and told the servant to borrow a carriage. "Get a spacious one, the Madam wille with me." The Liu family had recently gained the emperor''s favor, and Master Liu had been promoted too quickly, so they didn''t have their own carriage and had to rent one. "What''s going on?" Old Madam of Liu Family saw her husband''s agitated state for the first time. Thest time he was like this, it was because their granddaughter called him foolish. "I don''t need to eat those bamboo shoots, I want to eat them, and I won''t go to the market to buy them? Do I have to go dig them from someone else''s house, is that shameless?" Although the Old Madam came from a vige, she was the daughter of a vige teacher and had been educated, so she had insights. She could never do something so embarrassing just for the sake of eating. "And you want to go dig them from Ritual Master Xu''s house? Why don''t you just let me go to the Imperial Garden and dig them!" The Old Madam refused. Master Liu clicked his tongue and winked. The Old Madam immediately realized, "It''s our granddaughter..." Master Liu looked around and nodded. The Old Madam hurried to the inner chamber, gave the servant the money for the rented carriage. Just as she was about to grab Master Liu and ask for an exnation, they heard a loudughter from the outside. "Is Master Liu home? What are you resting for today, old friend? I''vee to visit you." Master Liu frowned quickly, exchanged a nce with the Old Madam, and lowered his voice, "I''ll go check the front, you go prepare the congrattory gift for Ritual Master Xu''s great-grandson''s one-month celebration." With that, he went to the front. The one weed in by the gatekeeper was none other than Hong Xing, the Left Censor-in-Chief of the Supervising Office, with whom Master Liu currently worked. Master Liu was temporarily serving as the Right Censor-in-Chief, and although he and Hong Xing were both Fourth Rank officials, the Left Censor-in-Chief had more power in the Supervising Office. "Master Hong, what wind has blown you here?" Master Liu was somewhat anxious. What trick was this? The intelligence boost from his granddaughter onlysted a day. He had to go catch that bribery criminal, Ritual Master Xu! Hong Xing chuckled, "Of course I''vee to see you. You just returned from the Liao Prince''s fief, are you well?" Master Liu, now shrewd, "Mm, His Majesty was considerate, he let me go to the pce to see my daughter, and then sent me back, giving me three days of rest." The implication was that he wanted Hong Xing to leave quickly, as he needed to rest. Hong Xing raised an eyebrow, picked up the tea cup, pretending not to understand, and sighed, "Ah, the Fifth Prince is still too young." Master Liu red. With his doubled intelligence, his memory had also greatly improved. He suddenly remembered that when he was at the Imperial Academy, he had heard someone say that Hong Xing, the Left Censor-in-Chief of the Supervising Office, was a student of the Empress''s father. Hong Xing was a member of the Empress''s faction. What did this mean? The Fifth Prince was young, so the Eldest Prince was just the right age!? The Empress wanted the Liu family to see the situation clearly, the Fifth Prince had no chance of seeding to the throne, it would be better to support the Eldest Prince''s ascension? Master Liu immediately puffed out his chest and red. Hong Xing smiled, "Master Liu, the current Emperor may seem mild, but he is very shrewd. And since ancient times, the imperial princes'' maternal families, especially the Crown Prince''s maternal family, have been very difficult to be favored." "Master Liu is now in the spotlight, but do you know that twenty years ago, the Prime Minister Chancellor Tong held great power and presided over three imperial examinations, being the former Emperor''s most trusted minister." Master Liu narrowed his eyes. The former Prime Minister Chancellor Tong was the Empress''s father, the current Eldest Prince''s maternal grandfather! "But after the Eldest Prince was born," Hong Xing put down his teacup, "Chancellor Tong resigned and went home to recuperate." "Now the Tong family, except for the eldest son, the rest are all great schrs in Jinzhou, without any of them serving in the court." The Eldest Prince''s maternal family had been distanced from the court. It was to gain the Emperor''s trust and show an attitude. Even if the Eldest Prince ascended the throne in the future, the Tong family would only wholeheartedly assist, never monopolizing the court and bing the power behind the throne, letting the Xiao family''s royal authority be nominal. "Master Liu, do you understand?" Hong Xing looked at Master Liu, "You can''t have both the fish and the bear''s paw." "If you want the Liu family to be remembered for generations and aplish great things, then the Fifth Prince is too small, too small." Master Liu closed his eyes. Was this making him choose between being a high official or letting his grandson be emperor? "You are now doing so much for the Emperor, do you understand His Majesty''s intention?" Hong Xing lowered his voice. "The name behind the que, the Fifth Prince''s chance may be too low." Master Liu barely restrained himself from looking at Hong Xing like he was an idiot. "The wise know the opportune time, Master Liu, you''d better start nning for the Fifth Prince, find him a future support." Hong Xing smiled mysteriously. The "support" was naturally the Eldest Prince and the Empress! Master Liu couldn''t bear to listen anymore. He didn''t want to argue with a fool. Please, just get the situation straight first! His granddaughter had already said that the Eldest Prince was not even on the Emperor''s list of potential sessors! "Master, the rented carriage has arrived, shall we depart now?" The servant came in and interrupted. Master Liu seized the opportunity to stand up, "Master Hong, I''m in a hurry to go congratte Ritual Master Xu on his great-grandson, so I won''t keep youpany." Hong Xing''s face darkened, "Is Master Liu rejecting my goodwill?" Master Liu chuckled, "Hm? What did Master Hong just suggest to me?" "Ah the carriagepany, charge me for the time as scheduled, I can only discuss this further with Master Hong another day." Hong Xing angrily swept his sleeve and left. The Old Madam finally came out from the hall, worriedly had the servant carry the congrattory gift, and got into the carriage with Master Liu. "Are you alright, Master? We have offended them, will it create enemies for our grandson?" The Old Madam was full of concern, "What he said also made sense, if the Eldest Prince... ascends the throne..." Master Liu raised his hand to stop her. He pulled down the carriage curtain, and leaning close to his wife''s ear, said amid the noisy sound of the carriage wheels on the stone path, "Our granddaughter said, our little Fifth is the Crown Prince." "!!" The Old Madam of the Liu family almost threw the teacup on the carriage! What? She, a vige teacher''s daughter, had suddenly be the future Crown Prince''s grandmother. In the future, she would be the Empress Dowager''s grandmother! Oh my goodness! Her daughter Chao''er would be the Empress in the future! Master Liu saw his wife''s wide-eyed, unsettled expression, and shook his head, "Look at you, socking inposure." "I... For such a joyous event, when you heard it, why weren''t you excited?" The Old Madam pinched Master Liu hard. But Master Liu immediately told her, "Don''t be too happy too early, ah." He looked at the direction in front of the carriage, "Our little Fifth is taking over a court that is about to perish." "...!!" The Old Madam also remembered what their granddaughter had said when she visited the pce for the one-month celebration. How worrying! "Now the treasury has no money, natural disasters are constant, thend yields are poor, several foreign tribes are eyeing us hungrily, and our army is a mess, there''s no money to support the troops." The Old Madam''s eyebrows rose high. It was as if she had finally taken over the family''s management from her mother-inw, only to find the house not only out of rice, but also deeply in debt - this family leadership was really not worth taking. "Then what are we to do, old man?" "Don''t rush, we''re just taking it step by step now? The first step is, you go dig some bamboo shoots." "!!" * Ritual Master Xu''s house in the Imperial Academy was more upright-looking than Master Liu''s, a three-section house. This house exuded frugality everywhere, ordinary gray bricks, a wooden door, even the que with "Xu''s Mansion" written on it was slightly faded. The gatekeeper was an old man with white hair, obviously the cheapest kind of servant. "Master Wen-chang, Lady Liu, pleasee in quickly." Ritual Master Xu, upon receiving the news, came out to wee them with a joyous expression, wearing a patched ordinary cloth robe, and his ck shoes also had cotton peeking out. Master Liu''s mouth twitched. This person really knew how to act! If he hadn''t heard his granddaughter''s voice, he would never have guessed that this kind of person had a million taels! "I have long wanted toe and see Master Xu''s bamboo garden, as it must surely possess the steadfast resilience of a literary man." After exchanging pleasantries, Master Liu and his wife apanied Ritual Master Xu into his regr reception garden. However, as soon as Master Liu stepped into the garden, he felt something was amiss! My goodness, the ground of this bamboo garden seemed to be constantly dug and turned over? How loose it was! There must be something beneath the surface! Chapter 45 Chapter 45 The bamboo garden was filled with a gentle breeze, where literati recited poetry and exchanged verses, truly a refined and elegant ce. Ritual Master Xu was particrly boastful, "I gaze upon the bamboo every day, just to constantly remind myself to emte its unwavering spirit like the wind." Master Liu was speechless, this man from a schrly family really was different. No wonder the Emperor previously thought he was dull-witted. Look at how he had decorated this courtyard for himself! "Indeed, I also feel there is much poetry in this garden. Let me take a stroll, perhaps I canpose a good poem like Cao Zhi''s seven steps poem." Master Liu said, sping his hands behind his back and beginning to wander around the bamboo garden. Ritual Master Xu hesitated, but it was toote to stop him now. Master Liu strolled around the bamboo garden, asionally reciting poems, seeming quite content. But he was actually carefully observing the ground the whole time. The soil color in one area was different, it was new. Hmm? That patch looked as if it had just been turned overst night. Scanning the entire courtyard, Master Liu noticed that the soil color was only a year or two old, not like it had supported bamboo for a long time. Others might not have noticed, but Master Liu had studied diligently in the vige as a schr-official, and often helped in the fields during harvest time. He had grown up in thend, and could till the soil with his eyes closed. Master Liu recited a jumbled poem, then gave his wife a subtle look. Then he followed Ritual Master Xu to the pavilion to drink tea, saying, "Come, I wish to congratte you on the birth of your great-grandson." Madam Liu immediately turned and walked towards the area Master Liu had carefully stepped on. She gave a slight smile to the approaching Mrs. Xu, "Your family has so many fresh bamboo shoots, I must admit I''m a bit envious." Mrs. Xu stiffened, but quickly smiled, "Go sit in my room for a while, I''ll bring you a basketter." "Wonderful! I won''t be polite then." Madam Liu smiled, then slowly crouched down where Master Liu had just been standing. "And don''t give me the big ones, the small newly nted shoots will do." As she started to stand up, she suddenly let out an "Ah!" and pretended to stumble, grabbing onto the bamboo shoots to break her fall! In the process, she yanked out a few shoots along with their roots! Mrs. Xu was horrified and rushed over to cover it up! In the pavilion, Ritual Master Xu also abruptly stood up, knocking over the tea on the table! Only to see that the tender bamboo shoots in Madam Liu''s hands had quite a long section with no soil attached at all! * In the Chonghua Pce, the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou warmly weed his daughter Chu Chu. "My little princess, have you been cold?" He quickly felt her delicate, rosy little hands. He was about to order more coals in the brazier when Chu Chu suddenly rolled over and looked out the window with great interest. She pursed her lips, thinking to herself, "The Empress''s people actually went to my maternal granduncle, threatening to help the Crown Prince be emperor." Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. "They threatened my maternal granduncle, saying the Emperor would never tolerate the Crown Prince''s maternal family bing powerful and influential. They told him that if he wanted a promotion, he would have to help the Crown Prince ascend the throne." Xiao Yunzhou''s chest heaved, his vision darkening. The Empress''s faction had truly extended their ws far and wide! Did they not even see him, the Emperor, anymore? Were they trying to sideline him before they would be satisfied? Chu Chu continued watching the live broadcast, not noticing Xiao Yunzhou''s anger, and thought, "Hehe, my maternal granduncle didn''t even entertain them, he said his heart was only devoted to serving the Emperor and working for the people." Xiao Yunzhou''s expression instantly changed from anger to delight. The Liu family was upright. This way, he could confidently install his Fifth Prince, even if he passed away early, the Liu family would not attempt to usurp the Xiao royal n! "Huh, why did my maternal granduncle go to Ritual Master Xu''s ce?" Chu Chu wondered out loud as she watched the live broadcast. Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow, a bit displeased. The Empress''s father was a venerable elder of three dynasties, presiding over the imperial examinations, and had taken many new imperial schrs as his students. As a result, although he was no longer in the court, he still had a group of voices speaking on behalf of the Empress''s family. What was going on with Master Liu? Had he been provoked by the Empress''s people, and also started associating with the Ritual Master of the Imperial Academy, just like the Empress''s father? The Imperial Academy was where talents for the Hanlin Academy were cultivated! Could it be that the Liu family also wanted to be a second Empress''s faction? Taking on students and controlling the court? Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but be suspicious. Chu Chu didn''t notice her father''s mood, and quickly realized, "Ah, so my maternal granduncle went to congratte the Ritual Master on the birth of his great-grandson!" Xiao Yunzhou still didn''t rx. Theings and goings of these officials all had surface-level reasons. But privately, they were all forming factions. Did they think he didn''t know? If Master Liu was truly doing that, at most Xiao Yunzhou would just sideline him, out of consideration for his little princess and Fifth Prince. But in the future, he couldn''t allow the Liu family to rise up - he had to ensure the Xiao n''s rule remained intact, not the Liu n''s. Xiao Yunzhou thought this way, but the next sentence from his daughter immediately dispelled his displeasure and filled him with self-reproach. "Ah! My maternal granduncle went to the bamboo grove of Ritual Master Xu! Ah, he discovered that hundreds of thousands of taels of silver were buried under the bamboo!" "Ah, so my maternal granduncle wasn''t there to congratte him, but to catch the corruption criminal for my father the Emperor!" "!" Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned, ovee by unprecedented self-reproach and shock. He had wrongly doubted Master Liu''s loyalty! In a sh, he stood up. "Wei Zheng, I just remembered, Ritual Master Xu has recently gained a great-grandson, is that so?" "Summon the carriage, I will make an incognito visit to Ritual Master Xu''s residence to ''congratte'' him!" Chu Chu blinked herrge grape-like eyes, and soon beamed with delight, "Can I go with Father the Emperor?" "I want to go see them dig up the silver! See them catch the corrupt official!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was immediately pleased, "Third Princess will apany me." Halfway there, he paused again, "Wei Zheng, go summon the members of the Imperial Cab and the Six Ministries who are on duty today!" In the Imperial Cab. The senior ministers and junior ministers were conversing with the Censorate and Ministry of Justice, when they heard the Emperor''s instructions. "What? The Emperor is calling us to set aside our current tasks and go congratte Ritual Master Xu on his great-grandson''s month celebration?" What kind of y was this? Chancellor Fu Cha was the first to smile, "The Emperor is still quite young, before he harshly reprimanded all the officials, and now he is trying to mend rtions with his ministers." The others all felt there was some logic to it. "The Emperor wants to save face, he doesn''t want to personallye talk to us, so he''s using Ritual Master Xu''s joyous asion to show he doesn''t want to be at odds with the officials." "That''s right." The Minister of Officials stroked his beard, "The Emperor can''t manage everything, he still needs to rely on the Imperial Cab and Six Ministries." They were happy to give the Emperor some leeway. But in their hearts, the Imperial Cab and Six Ministries were still unwilling to easily admit defeat. "Your Majesty, the Imperial Cab is extremely busy today, the performance evaluations of officials in all regions have not yet concluded, and we also need to prepare for the uing imperial examinations, having us go visit Ritual Master Xu''s residence is really too disruptive." "Yes, Your Majesty, I in the Ministry of Officials also have many matters to attend to. We really can''t leave." "And we in the Ministry of War are the same, we absolutely cannot get away!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was already amused, not saying a word the whole way. Until they entered Ritual Master Xu''s estate, and heard the voicesing from the inner courtyard - "Ah, Ritual Master Xu, your bamboo shoots are remarkably clean, when pulled out they still have just a bit of soil..." "It turns out they were nted right on top of a few hundred thousand taels of silver!" Master Liu''s loud voice, full of sarcasm. "There is so much silver hidden underneath your bamboo garden, Ritual Master Xu! You corrupt andwless scoundrel!" The Prime Minister, the Vice Prime Minister, and the officials of the Six Ministries were all left utterly bewildered! Chapter 46 Chapter 46 Outside the courtyard of Ritual Master Xu. Separated by a wall, all the ministers were dumbfounded. They looked towards the wall in disbelief, gazing upon the densely grown tall bamboo trees within. "Ritual Master Xu, I never expected you to be this kind of person." "Burying silver under the upright and virtuous bamboo!" "This is simply outrageous, simply outrageous!" A resounding voice came from Master Liu. "The monthly sry of the Ritual Master of the Imperial Academy is fifty-nine taels and three qian and three fen, and six dan of rice!" "Where did you get this whole chest of silver?!" The ministers standing outside were stunned. Xiao Yunzhou snorted coldly, then pretended to be surprised as he walked in. The other ministers suddenly snapped out of their trance and followed him. The old man guarding the gates of the Xu mansion wanted to block them and go report the news, but was stopped by Wei Zheng who summoned the guards to usher him aside. The entourage of the Emperor passed through without obstruction, directly entering the bamboo grove courtyard behind the Xu mansion. They heard Ritual Master Xu still raging at Master Liu, as well as his evasive defense, "Master Liu, don''t bully me too much!" "Even though you have been promoted to a fourth-rank official working in the Censorate, without the Emperor''s edict, and not being part of the Imperial Guards, on what grounds can you search my home?!" Ritual Master Xu and Mrs. Xu stood firmly in front of the Liu couple. At the feet of Old Madam Liu, the soil pit had already revealed the lid of a redwood treasure chest. This wooden chest was opened about a third of the way, and the dazzling official silver within was neatly arranged, gleaming in the sunlight. "This is a chest of silver I have painstakingly umted over twenty years of being an official. I just like burying it under the bamboo garden, to protect it from thieves at home and abroad! And now even you, Master Liu, want to get involved?" Ritual Master Xu cried out hoarsely. "Preposterous! Nonsense, the Ritual Master''s monthly sry is fifty-nine taels." Old Madam Liu stepped forward and spat right in Ritual Master Xu''s face. "Aside from the money spent on buying houses in the capital, and the daily expenses of feeding and maintaining horses, carriages, servants, and the whole family, at most there is only over a hundred taels left!" "This chest of silver, you would need to save for at least ten years to umte, let alone the fact that what is exposed and discovered by us is at least dozens of chests!" Old Madam Liu''s fighting spirit was even stronger than her husband Master Liu. After all, she was the one managing the household, so she understood much better than her husband how much of the Imperial Academy''s sry could be saved. "Our Liu family is still renting carriages in poverty, while you, Ritual Master Xu, have already used ten chests of silver to grow bamboo!" Old Madam Liu''s eyes reddened as sheunched a barrage of sarcasm at Ritual Master Xu. Normally she was a refined woman, but today she couldn''t hold back. Thinking about how the money in front of her, which should belong to the national treasury and her grandchildren''s future, was being greedily hoarded by this patched-up-robed head of the Imperial Academy, Old Madam Liu simply couldn''t sit still. The way she looked at Ritual Master Xu was as if he was a thief who had stolen her family''s cabbages! "Sir, don''t waste time arguing with him! Quickly go to the pce and report to the Emperor, I''ll keep an eye on them here to prevent them from moving and hiding the silver!" Old Madam Liu put her hands on her hips. "You, you shrew¡ª" Ritual Master Xu was so enraged he couldn''t even finish his sentence. Mrs. Xu was even more ferocious, wanting to w at Old Madam Liu''s face. But how could a refined official''s wife match up against a farmer''s daughter who used to climb trees and shoo birds? Mrs. Xu charged forward, and Old Madam Liu simply gave her a firm push with one hand, sending Mrs. Xu falling into the soil pit with an "ouch" as shended on her face. This caused the pit, which had previously only exposed two or three chests, to now have dust flying everywhere, revealing the edges of another two or three wooden chests. "Speak properly, don''t resort to physical violence." Old Madam Liu patted her clothes, quite unhappy. "After all, you are the Ritual Master''s wife, how can you behave this way?" Ritual Master Xu was furious, but seeing his wife fall without any fighting ability, he was both shocked and fearful. He directly knelt down in front of Master Liu. "Wen Chang, speak softly, don''t shout loudly." "As for these silver, how about I give you half?" Master Liu narrowed his eyes, silently looking at him. "Half is too little? Alright, I''ll give you sixty percent, seventy percent, how''s that!?" Ritual Master Xu knelt and begged Master Liu. "Don''t make a fuss, just tell me how much you want, and say it directly, don''t use the Emperor!" The footsteps of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou suddenly stopped in front of the screen wall outside the bamboo garden. His gaze turned towards the standing Master Liu in the courtyard. The group of officials behind the Emperor, including Grand Tutor Fu, were all sweating nervously. The Emperor was still so suspicious. Even though Master Liu was the maternal grandfather of the Fifth Prince, and had helped the Emperor suppress the rebellious Prince Liao, establishing great merit, the Emperor still harbored doubts. If the Emperor didn''te out now, and just stood outside the bamboo garden, it was a test for Master Liu. "Wen Chang, I''ll tell you secretly, seventy percent, I can give you a million taels." The Grand Tutor and the Six Ministries officials all took a sharp breath. Not only Master Liu the pauper, even they themselves would have a hard time resisting the temptation of Ritual Master Xu''s bribery. After all, in the backyard of a Ritual Master, who would know? The officials outside the bamboo grove momentarily looked sympathetic, as if they had already predicted that Master Liu would agree, and be caught red-handed by the Emperor listening from outside. But just then, they heard Old Madam Liu''s clear and powerful voice from the garden. "You shameless Xu! Not only are you greedy for money, but you also want to drag my husband down with you!" "I spit on you!" "I''m telling you, not even if it''s five million taels, are you allowed to step foot in the Liu family home!" "If Liu Wenchang dares to take this dirty money, even if I''m called a shrew, I''ll break his legs! Hang him on the wall and whip him!" Ritual Master Xu was dumbfounded. The ministers outside forgot to breathe. Even Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. The mother of Madam Liu, so valiant? He suddenly felt that Madam Liu was actually too gentle in her usual manner. The Emperor was relieved to have broken into a slight sweat on his back. But Old Madam Liu... truly a virtuous and upright female hero! "You, you..." Ritual Master Xu in the garden was so enraged his eyes turned red, "What business does a woman have in a man''s conversation! Wen Chang brother, don''t listen to your wife''s nonsense! At worst, I''ll just divorce her!" Master Liu''s brows furrowed, wanting to stop it but it was already toote. Old Madam Liu''s anger level had risen, and she quickly pinned Ritual Master Xu''s hands behind his back and pressed him to the ground! "Sir, what are you still hesitating for, hurry and go to the pce to seek the Emperor''s instructions!" "I want to see how much of themon people''s money this filthy thing has greedily hoarded!" How much of the treasury money has he robbed from my grandchildren! "Sir, I''m telling you, if you want to get rich like him, abandon that idea early, otherwise if you dare, I''ll uphold justice and eliminate my own flesh and blood, just try it!" Old Madam Liu didn''t care about her old husband, the key was her grandchildren''s future. In history, the rulers who lost their kingdoms eithermitted suicide or were killed. And princesses who met a bad end were often raped and died in the pce. Whoever now greedily coveted the national treasury, endangering the future of her grandchildren, was her enemy! "Shrew, vile woman!" Ritual Master Xu tried to struggle, but couldn''t break free at all. Mrs. Xu also rushed over, wanting to w at Old Madam Liu''s face. Just as the situation was about to escte further, they were stopped by the group of people that entered the courtyard. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was leading the way. The Grand Tutor, the Three Deputy Grand Tutors, and the heads of the Six Ministries were all following behind. Mrs. Xu''s face paled. Ritual Master Xu''s body trembled. "Bring a seat for Old Madam Liu." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, holding the sleeping little princess Chu Chu who had been jostled too much in the carriage, waved his hand graciously towards Old Madam Liu. "Old Madam Liu, you''ve worked hard, have a seat for a while." "Wei Zheng, have people dig! Dig this entire bamboo grove until the bottom is exposed for me!" Ritual Master Xu copsed to the ground. How did the Emperor arrive? Had Master Liu previously notified the Emperor? Impossible, impossible! How could they have possibly imagined that this man, who normally patches up his official robes, would be so greedy as to bury the embezzled silver under the elegant bamboo garden? How could they have known about this in advance? [Beep.] [Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s affection for your grandmother, Old Madam of Liu Family, has skyrocketed.] [Ah, so even women can be on par with men, as the ancients rightly believed - the Emperor thinks so.] [Congrattions host, the side quest - Elevating the Status of Women - has beenpleted 0.5%.] Chu Chu woke up, confused by the system''s voice, and rubbed her eyes in bewilderment. Chapter 47 Chapter 47 In the bamboo garden, Master Liu and Old Madam of Liu Family were surprised to see Emperor Xiao Yunzhou and the Imperial Cab ministers. Following the Emperor''s gaze, they saw the Princess Chu Chu, who seemed to have just woken up from themotion, and their hearts were filled with sympathy. "We, your humble servants, pay respects to Your Majesty." "We, your humble servants'' wives, pay respects to Your Majesty." "Your Majesty, why did you bring the Princess out of the pce?" Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "I originally came to congratte Ritual Master Xu on the birth of his great-grandchild, but then I heard of this wicked deed!" The prostrate Ritual Master Xu was bewildered. Meanwhile, the imperial guards began digging up the sandalwood boxes one by one. Thirty boxes... fifty boxes... sixty-three boxes! Even though Xiao Yunzhou had already expected this, he was still infuriated by the ring sixty-three boxes of official silver and valuable calligraphies and paintings. "Arrest Xu Shao immediately! Investigate where this silver came from!" As an Emperor, the money in his private treasury was barely this much...it was preposterous! "Master Liu, you have rendered another meritorious service." Xiao Yunzhou sincerely praised Master Liu in front of the Imperial Cab ministers. The Imperial Cab and Six Ministries officials fell silent. They looked at Ritual Master Xu being dragged away by the Imperial Guards, utterly bewildered. What kind of blessings had the Liu family been receivingtely? How was it that one incident after another was first discovered by Liu Wenchang? Whether it was catching the adulterer superior, uncovering the rebellion, or now exposing this massive embezzlement, how could they do it? The Minister of Justice could no longer hold back his curiosity and asked Master Liu, "How did Sir Liu discover this?" "Ah, there''s nothing much to say. I just wanted to visit my old friend, Ritual Master Xu." Master Liu replied humbly. "But as I was casually strolling in the courtyard,posing poems, I noticed something amiss." Not only the Minister of Justice, even the four Grand Secretaries in the Imperial Cab were twitching at the corners of their mouths. How casual could you be! Could they get some of this good luck too? "Master Liu, what did you discover from your poetryposition?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was also very interested. If it weren''t for his daughter''s voice, even the Emperor himself wouldn''t havee to witness the spectacle. While Master Liu remained humble, Old Madam of Liu Family had a very thick skin. She then stood up, "To answer Your Majesty, when I was young, I used to y in the fields. As soon as my husband took a step on this muddy ground, he knew something was off underground." "He gave me a signal, and I pretended to want to eat bamboo shoots and pulled one out to inspect." The Imperial Cab ministers fell silent one by one. Who could have imagined it? They were a schrly ss, generations of officials. Even the less wealthy ones were usually kept from doing manualbor by their parents, focused solely on the imperial examinations. But the Liu family was so unrefined, letting their educated members work in the fields! And yet, thisck of refinement had allowed the Liu family to render meritorious service! "Good, good, good!" Xiao Yunzhou apuded enthusiastically, his eyes shining brightly. "During the previous Emperor''s reign, he often led the officials to help themoners with autumn harvests and spring nting. Through these acts, he wanted the imperial descendants and all officials to never forget the importance of cultivating grains." "When I was young, I did not fully understand the profound meaning behind the previous Emperor''s words. But today''s events have opened my eyes, and I now know he was right!" Xiao Yunzhou sighed, "In the past, I was mistaken. From tomorrow on, whenever there is a rest day, all officials shall apany me to the outskirts of the capital to help themoners in the fields." "???" The Imperial Cab and Six Ministries officials were all dumbfounded. What was this? Emperor Xiao Yunzhou now saw Master Liu and Old Madam of Liu Family as truly wise, robust, and loyal to the court - a rare find indeed. Turning to look at the group of officials beside him, who feared working in the fields as if facing a great enemy, Xiao Yunzhou felt disdain, "I asked you all toe visit Ritual Master Xu with me, but you all said you were too busy with important matters toe." "So what were you all so busy with?" "Nothing at all!" "Not even as useful as Master Liu on his rest day!" "Ai, I, the Emperor, am too ashamed to continue." The four Grand Secretaries and Six Ministry officials all turned red in the face. Five dayster, the 1.2 million taels of silver confiscated from Ritual Master Xu were deposited into the imperial treasury. Besides allocating some for the Yellow River management, Xiao Yunzhou also gave a portion to Concubine Liu. "Madam, today the Emperor took the Imperial Cab and Ministry officials to work in the fields." Wei Zheng smiled as he had the servants carry the boxes of official silver into Concubine Liu''s quarters. "The Emperor originally wanted to bring the Princess, but thought the field under the sun might be too harsh, so he refrained from doing so." [Aww, but I want to go out and y~] Upon hearing she couldn''t go, the little Princess Chu Chu''s mouth pouted in the swinging cradle. [That day when they came to confiscate the silver, I fell asleep halfway, and I wasn''t happy.] Concubine Liu couldn''t help but smile wryly, hugging her daughter and gently patting her back to soothe her. "Thank you for Your Majesty''s consideration." If the Emperor wanted to hold the child, she couldn''t let him. Men really don''t know how to handle children! A few days ago when the Emperor took Chu Chu out of the pce, her bottom was all reddened when they returned. It was all because the Emperor kept holding her and wouldn''t let the wet nurses take her. Whenever the Emperor wanted to carry her daughter, Concubine Liu would get a headache. "Imperial Attendant Wei, what are these boxes brought in?" "Ah, this silver is what the Emperor allocated from his private treasury, knowing that you, Madam, and the Madam of Liu Family, are having thedies make winter clothes for the refugees." [Hehe, so this is the silver dug up from Ritual Master Xu''s hiding spot.] Chu Chu stretched her neck to peek into the treasure chests. "This is one thousand taels, a token of the Emperor''s support for your noble endeavor." Wei Zheng said with a smile. "The Emperor said that if you still need more silver, you can tell him again." Concubine Liu nodded, letting the little eunuch take the silver to the storehouse. But just as she was about to let him leave, Wei Zheng stepped forward mysteriously, taking out an imperial edict from his sleeve. He then solemnly recited, "By the Heavenly Mandate, the Emperor''s Decree states:" "I have heard that Empress Dowager has instructed Concubine Liu to undertake the task of providing winter clothes for the refugees." "I hereby grant Concubine Liu a pce pass, allowing her free entry and exit of the imperial pce." "And I appoint Old Madam of Liu Family as the supervisor for the clothing production, to assist Concubine Liu''s work outside the pce." "Furthermore, I have learned that the daughter of the Hangzhou prefect, Min Rou, is skilled in sewing and embroidery. I herebymand her to aid Concubine Liu." Concubine Liu suddenly looked up, her eyes shining with tears. Even the swaddled Chu Chu, who was almost falling asleep, had her eyes brighten. Min Rou was the daughter-inw who had been bullied and almostmitted suicide in the original book! [Wow, my mother can now go out of the pce, and meet her!] Tears glistened in Concubine Liu''s eyes. Min Rou was her close friend from before she married into the pce. But after entering the pce, the distance between them had grown as deep as the sea. And now, she could freely go out and see her mother? Without needing the approval of the Empress or Empress Dowager! Concubine Liu lowered her head, unable to hold back a sniffle. Wei Zheng continued with a smile, "The Emperor has also granted Concubine Liu a small residence in the capital, exclusively for thedies working on the winter clothing project." "That is all." [Aww, my mother has a house now~] Chu Chu was excited, [I want to go see it!] Wei Zheng finished speaking and smiled at the teary-eyed Concubine Liu, "Madam, you may ept the decree." "Also, the carriage is waiting outside the pce. The Emperor said you can take the Princess and Consort Min out to start the winter clothing work today." Concubine Liu''s eyes lit up. [Great, my mother and Aunt Min can finally leave the pce and do something of their own!] Chu Chu genuinely rejoiced for Concubine Liu, her little mouth breaking into a wide smile. [No longer a caged bird or a golden canary, but embarking on her own undertaking!] "By the way, Madam, the Ministry of Works has manufactured five improved silk reeling machines and weaving machines based on your suggestions, and they have been delivered." Chapter 48 Chapter 48 The Ministry of Works sent five foot-operated spinning wheels, one of which was intended for delivery to the Empress Dowager. However, the Empress Dowager was so eager that upon hearing the Ministry of Works had first delivered to the residence of Concubine Liu, which was closer to the South Gate, she immediately rushed over with her entourage to see. "Concubine Liu, has the spinning wheel arrived?" The Empress Dowager''s steps even quickened. Behind her were the Empress, Consort Li, and others who hade to pay their respects to the Empress Dowager earlier in the day. The Empress and Consort Li had heard that Concubine Liu had presented an improved weaving machine and intentionally went to pay their respects to the Empress Dowager today, wanting to take a look. "Your Majesty, please slow down," Consort Li said with a smile, supporting the Empress Dowager''s arm. "In the past century, our silk weaving techniques have hardly changed." "Can Concubine Liu''s method change much, let alone surpass the women who weave at home regrly or the schrs at the Ministry of Works?" Consort Li dismissed Concubine Liu''s so-called improved spinning technique with disdain. If Concubine Liu coulde up with something like this, what would she need to be a concubine for? The Liu family had long been prosperous. "Even a slight improvement of ten or twenty percent would be good," the Empress, being simple-minded, didn''t catch Consort Li''s disdain at all. She was eager to see the spinning wheels and eagerly walked inside. The Empress smiled, "Mother, Consort Li means well. She''s afraid that if you have high expectations, you''ll be more disappointed." Upon hearing this, the Empress Dowager pursed her lips, feeling a bit unhappy. These days, she had been eagerly awaiting news from the Ministry of Works. If Concubine Liu''s new machine didn''t work or its effect was poor, disappointment was certain. The Empress Dowager patted the Empress''s hand, "Let''s go in and see." The group entered the Donghua Pce in grand procession. Concubine Liu and Consort Min, who were busy around the five spinning wheels in the side hall, were startled and quickly came out to greet them. Before they could pay their respects, Consort Li immediately criticized, "Concubine Liu, the Empress Dowager was so eager to see your improved technique that she even skipped breakfast and came all the way from the Cining Pce to the Donghua Pce." "If your new machine doesn''t work well, it''ll be a big trouble!" Hearing this, the Empress Dowager couldn''t help but smile bitterly. It was her impulsiveness that led her toe in such a hurry. She brought a group of consorts with her, eager to see. If the new machine proved to be useless, then this group of consorts would essentially be watching her and Concubine Liu''s joke! With that in mind, the smile on the Empress Dowager''s facepletely faded. "I''m just casually strolling around." "Alright, Concubine Liu, don''t mind me, just continue." Consort Li held the Empress Dowager''s hand and watched Concubine Liu as if she were watching a y. The expectant gaze, hoping to see her make a fool of herself, was clearly observed by Xiao Chuchu, who was held by the nanny. Xiao Chuchu immediately vented her thoughts, "Consort Li isn''t a good person at all. In the pce, she''s just a weather vane." "When Imperial Noble Fu Cha was in power, she followed behind her, causing trouble and bullying other women." "When Imperial Noble Fu Cha fell out of favor, she followed the Empress, pretending to be powerful!" Listening to her daughter''s inner thoughts, Liu Chaniang secretly became alert. "Despite Consort Li being my brother''s foster mother, my brother was raised by her side and didn''t move out until he was five, to Qianxi No.5 Residence where the princes live." "In these five years, Consort Li hasn''t shown any tenderness towards my brother!" "My mother was slightly favored by the Empress Dowager, so Consort Li couldn''t wait to suppress her. But whenever she showed favoritism towards my brother, it never reached the point of wanting to discredit his birth mother," Xiao Chuchu criticized. Liu Chaniang sighed inwardly. Ever since her daughter mentioned that when the new emperor ascended to the throne, Cheng Qian would not meet a good end, she knew Consort Li was unreliable. If Consort Li was truly willing to protect Cheng Qian, it wouldn''te to this. Liu Chaniang no longer relied on Consort Li as her son''s foster mother. "Empress Dowager, please have a seat. Your timing is perfect; I was just about to try out this new spinning machine," Concubine Liu said. The Empress Dowager raised an eyebrow. To save face for Concubine Liu, the Empress Dowager dared not to expect too much. She casually nodded and turned her gaze to the five machines in the courtyard. Several consorts also looked over curiously. They saw that this wooden spinning machine was not asplicated as they had imagined. Consort Li chuckled, "It doesn''t seem impressive." But Concubine Liu, wearing t embroidered shoes and a narrow-sleeved purple linen garment for ease of movement, walked to the side of the new spinning machine. With dainty features and serene facial features, she appeared like an ordinary peasant woman as she approached the new spinning machine. First, she lifted the silk strands from the cauldron held by a pce maid, passed them through the bamboo needle eyes on the machine, then wound them around the guiding pulley lock star with practiced and fluid movements. The silk threads obediently followed her hands and soon wound around the spool. Concubine Liu''s t embroidered shoes immediately stepped on one of the foot pedals of the spinning machine, moving up and down rhythmically. The creaking sound echoed, but her hands remained still as the connecting rods on the machine made the spool crankshaft rotate back and forth, merging the silk threads on the spinning machine. "Snap¡ª" The Empress Dowager''s calm expression turned to astonishment. Her body in her fifties couldn''t sit still anymore; she abruptly stood up, overturning the grandmaster chair behind her! She hurried to the spinning machine, watching as Concubine Liu stepped on the pedal a few times, sessfully spinning and merging the threads. Her face shone with undeniable brilliance. "It''s so convenient!" In the past, they had to manually wind the silk strands. Compared to this automated process where silk could be drawn and spun simply by foot, it was faster and more effortless! The Empress Dowager couldn''t help but reach out, "Concubine Liu, let me try!" She couldn''t wait any longer! "If this spinning machine can be poprized throughout the country, our productivity could greatly increase!" This spinning machine freed women''s hands; they only needed to use their feet! She pushed Concubine Liu aside and tried it in public. The Empress remained unchanged in her expression, but Consort Li, who had just ridiculed Concubine Liu, looked displeased. The other consorts had mixed expressions. Did Concubine Liu really aplish this? "Empress Dowager, Concubine Liu has been sending eunuchs to the Ministry of Works these days to discuss how to make the spinning machine," Consort Min said with a smile, "After several modifications, it was finally settled." "The spinning machines made by the Ministry of Works were originally twice the size of what they are now," Consort Min continued. The Empress Dowager was surprised to hear this, "So big? It''s probably hard formoners to amodate." "Exactly, so now Concubine Liu is trying to find a way to make them smaller," Consort Min boasted on behalf of her sister. She usually portrayed herself as devout and nonpetitive. The Empress Dowager believed it was not a lie. At this moment, she treaded on the spinning wheel while personally experiencing it, and couldn''t help but admire Concubine Liu''s simple peasant attire. "Well done, Concubine Liu, your advancement in silk weaving has truly brought extraordinary reform and convenience to silk-weaving women across the realm," the Empress Dowager praised. With a smile full of affection, the Empress Dowager rose and took off a pair of jade bracelets from her wrist, cing them onto Concubine Liu''s wrist. Theposed expression on the Empress''s face just now tightened in an instant! "Huh? Wasn''t this a birthday gift from thete Emperor to the Empress?" Xiao Chuchu, with sharp eyes, noticed and became excited. "The Empress has been longing for it but never got it. I didn''t expect the Empress Dowager to give it to my mother," she eximed. "From now on, as long as my mother reveals this bracelet in the pce, no one will dare to mistreat her openly!" Filial pietyes first. In the Jing Country, even the Emperor must not show disrespect to the Empress Dowager. "This was a birthday gift from thete Emperor or the Crown Prince to me. I''ve worn it for nearly forty years," the Empress Dowager said kindly as she patted Concubine Liu''s hand. "Now, I''m giving it to you." "Thete Emperor must be very pleased to have a daughter-inw like you, who seeks benefits for women across the realm and sets an example for them." The Empress''s face turned ck. Concubine Liu is indeed a role model for women, a good daughter-inw. But what about her, the Empress? Does the Empress Dowager still see her as the Empress? However, the Empress Dowager was straightforward. After rewarding Concubine Liu, she smiled and looked at the Empress and others. "The rest of you, if you make contributions like Concubine Liu in the future, working for the benefit of the realm and deserving my praise, I will also reward you." The Empress, Consort Li, and the other pce consorts all twitched their lips. What does she mean? Are they also supposed to engage in creating inventions and innovations, improving spinning wheel technology for no reason? Are they to act as consorts or as officials!? If Concubine Liu alone isn''t enough, do they also have to follow suit? "Oh, by the way, I heard that the Emperor granted a courtyard outside the pce to Concubine Liu for making winter clothes?" The Empress Dowager pondered and then waved her hand. "In that case, I don''t need this new spinning wheel immediately. Take these five spinning wheels, Concubine Liu, and bring them outside the pce to work." "Furthermore, let the Ministry of Works produce more of them and promote them among themon people as soon as possible." Saying so, the Empress Dowager walked out with her entourage. "I have two maidservants in the pce who are also skilled at making clothes. I''ll call them for you. Concubine Liu, you take them and do the work together, making more winter clothes before it snows." "Yes, Your Majesty. This servant obeys," Concubine Liu curtsied. This time, it was sincere, not just following pce rules. After breakfast, Concubine Liu took the Empress Dowager''s two maidservants, her own pce maidens, and the wet nurse out of the pce. Consort Min held Xiao Chuchu tightly and refused to let go, and the wet nurse wouldn''t yield either. It wasn''t until they left the pce and settled in the granted mansion courtyard that Consort Min lowered her head and kissed Xiao Chuchu''s tender cheek. "Little Chuchu, look, who''s here? It''s your mother''s close friend from her maiden days." Yawning, Xiao Chuchu followed Consort Min''s gaze and was astonished. She saw a stunning woman, with striking features, but at the moment, her face was gaunt, and her clothes hung loosely on her body. It was none other than Min Rou, the daughter-inw whom Zhou WuXin, the former third-ranked official, had once bullied and whom Master Liu had rescued! Xiao Chuchu was greatly astonished. "Wow, how did you be so thin, beautifuldy?" Min Rou, who was about to bow, froze for a moment, her eyes trembling slightly. Who, who was speaking? Chapter 49 Chapter 49 Apart from Min Rou, some official wives had also arrived at the Imperial Grant Courtyard early to help. Holding her daughter, Concubine Liu looked around and felt her hands were heavy. Smelling the milky fragrance on her daughter, she clearly felt herself bing smarter, handling things more efficiently. "Qiu Li, you and Consort Min together, register everyone''s expertise." "Divide into three groups: spinning, weaving, and sewing." [Wow, my mother is so amazing, she even knows about assembly line production!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but praise. Looking at the system prompt, she was even happier - her mother''s original intelligence was 76, but now, with her blessing, it had doubled to 152. [So, Mom is actually smarter than Grandpa himself.] Concubine Liu was also stunned when she heard this. Was she smarter than her father? But she didn''t have time to think about it, or even time to catch up with Min Rou next to her. After delegating tasks, she had the people in the spinning group start operating the silk machines brought out from the pce. Most of the people who came to this courtyard today were summoned by the emperor through Old Madam Liu two days ago. The recruiting criteria didn''t consider how influential their families were, only whether they had skilledbor. So most of those who came were wives who had oncee from humble backgrounds, skilled with needles and thread. Not only did they participate themselves, but they also brought along their most diligent maids and servants, just like the Empress Dowager, to help out. "Wow, this is a good thing!" "The consort is really amazing, to be able toe up with this." After doing the work for a while, they could see more clearly than the pce consorts the changes brought by this new machine! "If this were to be taken to our hometown before, it would have been snatched up." "Isn''t that right? No wonder Old Master Liu catches thieves one after another. Everyone in the Liu family is so clever! They can even invent such good things." The official wives in the spinning and weaving groups instantly fell in love with this machine. Word spread quickly, and the entire courtyard''s maids and servants came to see, all praising it endlessly. With this thing, the speed would increase by more than a little bit, and it wouldn''t require much effort! Their gaze towards Concubine Liu changed instantly. Originally, they had only paid attention to Concubine Liu because of Old Master Liu''s recent achievements. But now, they truly admired this young and beautiful pce consort from the bottom of their hearts. "Concubine Liu is even better than the Empress..." "Shh! Are you daring to say that?" "What''s there not to dare? Just telling the truth... If the Empress alsoes up with something helpful for us women, I''ll praise her too." The maids and servants gathered together, speaking without restraint. The praise ofmon people is the most sincere. Consort Min, upon hearing this, winked at Liu Chaniang, "Actually, I think so too." Liu Chaniang chuckled and pushed her daughter out, "Go do your work, you''re the head of the spinning group." [Wow, Mom is assigning roles and even appointing group leaders?] Xiao Chuchu was surprised, not expecting that Concubine Liu, whose intelligence had been enhanced, was already approaching modern factory management thinking. [So, is there performance evaluation?] Liu Chaniang, upon hearing her daughter''s thoughts, silently perked up her ears. Performance evaluation? In the manufacturing industry, a piece-rate reward system is adopted, where the more one produces, the more reward they receive. Xiao Chuchu drifted deeper into her thoughts, contemting, "If the quality is not up to standard, it will not be included in the piece-rate calction, and deductions will be made from the base sry due to material wastage." A spark ignited in Concubine Liu''s eyes. "What a brilliant idea! To encourage everyone to produce more and better winter clothing, they should be rewarded ordingly." Lady Guan may donate money, but the maids and servants whoe to help below, their lives are not easy, and they deserve extra pay for the additional work. Concubine Liu hurriedly instructed Qiu Li to bring paper and ink, nning ording to her daughter''s suggestion. By the time the spinning, weaving, and sewing groups were all bustling with activity, it was lunchtime, and Concubine Liu finally stopped writing, feeling weary. Only then did she notice someone standing beside her. Startled, Concubine Liu looked closely and recognized her former close friend from her maiden days, Min Rou. Seeing Min Rou''s emaciated appearance, Concubine Liu was on the verge of tears. "Why are you standing there? Come sit beside me." Concubine Liu reproached herself for being so busy organizing everyone to work in the courtyard that she neglected Min Rou. "How did you lose so much weight?" Concubine Liu refrained from being too intimate with Min Rou in front of so many people. Otherwise, others might think she was showing favoritism by giving Min Rou the easiest tasks and the best treatment. Min Rou was the best at embroidery and was appointed as the head of the sewing group by Concubine Liu. "If you can''t handle it, just tell me, I''ll let someone else take over for you, and you can go rest." Concubine Liu led Min Rou to the bed and discovered that her hands were ice-cold. Her moon-white gown hung loosely on her, revealing her gaunt frame. Min Rou''s originally almond-shaped face was now so thin that it almost lost its shape, and her lively eyes were now dim with exhaustion. Concubine Liu was both shocked and saddened. She hadn''t noticed Min Rou''s weight loss when she heard her daughter''s thoughts earlier, but now seeing her like this was too distressing. Waving her hand, Min Rou said, "I''m fine, just caught a chill a while ago." As she spoke, she looked at the swaddled baby in the cradle with gentle eyes that threatened to spill tears, yet there was a hint of restrained astonishment. "Now that the child at home is better, I dared toe over, afraid of infecting the little one and you." Min Rou''s hands didn''t stop sewing as she spoke, "Chaniang, your father and the emperor saved me, and I have nothing to repay them with." "Making clothes for the needy is within my capabilities." Concubine Liu sighed with concern, "And how about you and your husband?" Although they had talked about divorcing, after so many years of marriage, they were loving and had children. Min Rou sighed, "He''s been pleading with me not to act rashly, but I''ve made up my mind, we must divorce." "But the children fell ill a few days ago, so I couldn''t immediately take them back to my mother''s house." She had two daughters, the eldest was six, and the youngest was three. "I''ve exined it to Mu Xin, once the children are better, I''ll take them away." Min Rou had made up her mind. Liu Chaniang nodded with red-rimmed eyes, "You''re right. Growing up in the Zhou family, with that kind of family influence, who knows what kind of person the child will be." "You''re absolutely right," Min Rou said with painful eyes shut tight, "I don''t care about my own reputation, but I can''t bear to see my child call that kind of beast his grandfather!" She gritted her teeth at the thought, tears welling up in her eyes. "Especially when the child is sick, I can''t bear it. I don''t want my child to grow up without a father''s love." "Ah, even in the pce, I''ve heard Elder Brother Zhou has always been very good to you. He was smitten with you long before we got married," Liu Chaniang sighed, "but I suppose he''s under pressure from the Zhou family''s nine-generation single heir tradition. Even if he wants to sever ties with the Zhou family, the family elders and patriarch would never agree." Liu Chaniang genuinely felt sorry for Min Rou. "Ultimately, it''s all because the Zhou family refuses to behave like decent human beings!" "Don''t worry, Sister Min, things will get better in the future." Min Rou turned away, wiping her tears. "Hmm, my husband is a good man. He even went to the Ministry of Justice to reprimand his grandfather, but the Zhou family is still standing in our way." "I can''t go back as long as the older generation of the Zhou family is alive." But before she could finish, she was startled once again by the soft, intive voice in her ear. "Huh? Howe I don''t remember in the original novel that Aunt Min''s two daughters got sick?" Listening, Xiao Chuchu became puzzled. She couldn''t help but feel confused. "In the original novel, Aunt Min was bullied by an old dog and soonmitted suicide by hanging herself." "She left behind two healthy daughters, and the elder one, even before growing up, clearly inherited Aunt Min''s stunning looks and was bestowed upon my brother as his future prince consort by our imperial father." What? Min Rou and Concubine Liu were both stunned. The two of them, in the future, would actually be rtives by marriage!? However, Xiao Chuchu''s next words left them both dumbfounded. "My mother really knows how to deceive Aunt Min." "Where''s the true love from her husband? After she died in the novel, not long after, probably not even three months, her husband impregnated the daughter of the Minister of Justice..." Chapter 50 Chapter 50 In the Embroidery Room, Min Rou''s needle almost pierced her own finger. Concubine Liu was also so startled that she couldn''t speak, lowering her head to look at her obedient daughter being coaxed by the nanny in the cradle beside her. Zhou Muxin, Min Rou''s husband, was known throughout the capital city for doting on his wife. He did not take any concubines, obeyed his beloved wife''s every word, and reportedly handed over his entire monthly sry to Min Rou without keeping a single penny for himself. The unmarried youngdies of prominent families in the capital, as well as the official wives who were already married, all envied Min Rou for having such a doting and devoted husband. Because of this husband''s tender affection and exclusive adoration, everyone who saw Min Rou''s somewhat strict mother-inw still felt that she could be tolerated. Even Concubine Liu in the pce knew of these rumors. It was clear how renowned Zhou Muxin''s love for Min Rou was throughout the capital. [Ah, it''s all false, all lies.] Xiao Chuchu rocked in the cradle, shaking her head helplessly. [Believing in men will only lead to failure.] [What monthly sry being handed over to Aunt Min Rou? He''s just a lowly patrol guard in the capital, his monthly sry is pitiful.] [The main source of his ie is the ''tribute money'' he receives from the various shops and stalls in the city. Just this October alone, Zhou Muxin collected three hundred taels.] [Aunt Min Rou, I wonder how much of that he actually gave you?] [With his meager sry, he might give you some, but he keeps the bulk of his under-the-table ''tribute money'' for himself!] Min Rou was stunned, her chest heaving. She had just been staying in Concubine Liu''s Embroidery Room, not only to catch up with her long-lost bosom friend, but also because she had heard the peculiar thoughts of the young princess. When she first heard the first sentence, she thought she had misheard. But as she listened on, she became more and more shaken and astounded! Zhou Muxin only gave her twenty-odd taels of his October sry, and secretly kept three hundred taels for himself!? What kind of handing over his sry to her for safekeeping was that? There was none of that at all! Min Rou felt like she was about to faint. She had originally wanted topletely cut ties with the Zhou family because of the offensemitted by Zhou''s patriarch, and the one she would miss the most was her husband. She had always thought that he had only her, that he hadid bare his heart for her. She had wanted to leave him because of the despicable act his grandfather hadmitted, ultimately feeling somewhat guilty towards his genuine love. But it was not like that? Min Rou''s needlework was almost ripped apart. "Ahem." Concubine Liu even cleared her throat, taking several breaths before regaining herposure. She quickly changed the subject, hinting at Min Rou, "That, that, Sister Rou, has Elder Brother Zhou been up to anythingtely?" Min Rou was slightly stunned, "He... has just been going about his duties as usual, returning home at night." "But I dislike the Zhou family''s repulsiveness, so I''ve been sleeping in a separate room." "He keeps the childrenpany untilte at night, then goes to sleep alone in the study." She had just finished speaking when she heard Xiao Chuchu''s sweet and innocent voice ringing in her mind again. [Ah, what do you mean ''sleeping alone''?] [When the moon rises above the willow branches, people meet after dusk! After you all fall asleep, he sneaks out the back door of the study to go meet the daughter of the Minister of Justice in the back alleys at midnight!] Xiao Chuchu inwardly scoffed. Min Rou became dazed, "He... he cried and begged me not to leave him..." Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue in amazement, [You can''t trust a dog man''s words, even pigs can climb trees! There is a door in his study that leads directly to the outside street from the Zhou mansion.] Min Rou''s face drained of color, "I thought he still cared for me, that''s why I worked so hard to keep him..." Hearing this, Liu Chaniang, whose intelligence had doubled after smelling her daughter''s milk this morning, immediately understood. "Zhou Muxin''s grandfathermitted a crime and was imprisoned by the Ministry of Justice, stripped of his official position. Zhou Muxin''s father is just amon editor in the Hanlin Academy, without any real power." "Zhou Muxin, the sole heir of nine generations, barely managed to pass the military examination, but now he''s only a lowly patrol guard. The Zhou family has clearly fallen from grace and is no longer among the influential capital officials." "And the Emperor obviously doesn''t favor the Zhou family. He has a very poor impression of them." Liu Chaniang sighed as she looked at Min Rou''s pale face, "But Sister Rou, you are resolute and decisive, and the Emperor has a certain appreciation for you. He specifically appointed you to assist me in making winter clothes." At this, Min Rou suddenly understood. In the eyes of others, as long as she remained in the Zhou family, the family had a chance of regaining the Emperor''s favor. The Emperor was willing to utilize her, and in the future would be willing to utilize her children as well. Even over time, he might find Zhou Muxin eptable, and after he took over the family, all the past would be forgiven and forgotten! Min Rou''s lips trembled, "Are you saying that he''s keeping me around to prevent the Emperor from despising the Zhou family? To help the Zhou family regain their position among the capital officials?" [Ah, my mother is so clever again~] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but silently praise her mother. [That''s exactly it. So in the novel, not long after Min Rou passes away, Zhou Muxin hastily remarries the daughter of the Minister of Justice, using that connection to advance to the position of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice within three years.] Min Rou painfully closed her eyes. [This man, when he was young he lusted after Aunt Min Rou''s beauty, but after obtaining her, he no longer cherished her. Now he''s only focused on advancing his career, seeking to gain a prestigious official position.] [He''s not satisfied with just being a lowly patrol guard!] Xiao Chuchu''s incisive criticisms were like knives cutting into the hearts of the two women in the room. Min Rou tightly gripped the fabric in her hands, barely holding back from rushing home to confront Zhou Muxin. Was what the young princess said true? The young princess was the granddaughter of Master Liu, who was like a second father to her. Min Rou couldn''t help but trust what the young princess said from the bottom of her heart. But still, Zhou Muxin had been her husband of ten years... Holding back her tears, Min Rou lowered her head to sew the winter clothes, "Chaniang, let''s not talk about this anymore. My two daughters have been running fevers that won''t go down, that''s why I haven''t had the heart to immediately divorce him." "I''ll take the two children back to my family''s house today." Whether his feelings for her were real or fake, it no longer mattered to her. Even if it was fake, taking her two daughters and leaving the Zhou family would make her feel more at peace! Liu Chaniang heard this and tightly grasped her hand, about to open her mouth to encourage her, when she heard her own daughter drop another bombshell. Xiao Chuchu, idling in the cradle, decided to have the system check what Zhou Muxin was up to now. She was very curious about how this despicable man had deceived a woman for ten years. The results shocked even the worldly-wise Xiao Chuchu. [Damn, this Zhou Muxin is still human!?] [He and his old mother are going to drown Min Rou''s little daughter in ice water!] Min Rou''s body went limp at these words. Concubine Liu abruptly stood up with a tter. [Ah! This old hag and that stinking man are drugging the three-year-old child and making her soak in ice water, making her gravely ill! To prevent Aunt Min Rou from divorcing at this time!] [Ah, help!] Chapter 51 Chapter 51 The brazier in the embroidery room was still burning, but Concubine Liu and Min Rou were ice-cold. "It''s almost time for the midday meal, Sister Rou, I''d like to go to your residence and see your daughter." Concubine Liu had already stood up, not even allowing the other to refuse. "Okay, okay!" Min Rou was in aplete state of confusion. She had just been wondering how to make an excuse to go home and see her daughter. She couldn''t possibly say that she had heard the three-month-old princess speak! "Qiu Li, prepare the carriage immediately!" Concubine Liu grabbed Min Rou''s hand and headed outside. "Zhang Jia Wet Nurse, carry the princess and wrap her up tightly in a cloak!" They all moved with great haste, just as the lunch break was beginning. Just as Concubine Liu was about to get in the carriage, she paused. "Qiu Li, go and summon Consort Min as well." Consort Min was the woman who had been secretly practicing swords and spears, ording to her daughter! In no time, the group hurriedly boarded the carriage. Min Rou was anxious and restless. Concubine Liu was also desperately worried, constantly looking out the window. Only Consort Min, upon hearing they were going to the Zhou Mansion for a meal and to see the two well-behaved little girls, was excited to go. Like the swaddled Xiao Chuchu, Consort Min didn''t even feel sleepy, staring out the window and eagerly awaiting their arrival at the Zhou Mansion. But Xiao Chuchu''s excitement was clearly different from Consort Min''s. In her heart, she was frantically calling out to hurry up! ''That wicked mother-inw has drugged my little sister! She''s even had the maidservant go get ice blocks!'' ''Help! It''s the depths of winter now!'' ''Ah, that wicked mother-inw has sent all the servants away!'' "Tell the driver to hurry!" Concubine Liu gripped her handkerchief, her face changing color. "Consort Min is hungry, get to the Zhou Mansion as quickly as possible!!" "Little Luzi, you and the guards should ride ahead to the Zhou Mansion! Inform them that I, the princess, aming to dine, and have them prepare quickly!" Min Rou was on the verge of tears, looking at Concubine Liu with deep gratitude. Consort Min was even more stunned, moved beyond words. "Sister Liu, you''re really going through so much trouble just for me to have a bite to eat, no, to have a meal. You''re so thoughtful." Concubine Liu''s mouth twitched. This was just an excuse. Consort Min, who loved to eat, actually believed it, just like the sixth prince she had given birth to. The eunuch Xiao Luzi that she had brought out of the pce galloped ahead on horseback, and the carriage they were riding in went at a speed as if they were nursing a baby, almost rocking them off the road. The roads were cleared, and in about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the carriage creaked to a stop at the entrance of the Zhou Mansion. The surroundingmoners were grumbling and cursing. "What a grand disy, who do they think they are, clearing the road!?" "Rumor has it they''re imperial concubines?" "The emperor''s women, they really don''t give a damn about usmon folk!" "What, just to eat their meal a little earlier, they won''t even let usmoners pass!?" "How arrogant! Is she the empress?" Themotion and chatter made both Concubine Liu and Consort Min change expression. Min Rou was even more anxious. But Concubine Liu no longer had time to worry about all this, as her precious daughter was calling out again. ''Help! This cruel mother-inw, upon hearing that mother ising to dine, hasn''t stopped yet! She''s gone out to instruct the servant to prepare the food, and then she went back to the room!'' ''Ah, she''s extinguished the fire in the room and is going to submerge my little sister in ice water!'' ''The ice was just bought this morning, it hasn''t even melted yet!'' ''Mother, hurry, hurry, hurry, a life is at stake!'' Concubine Liu gripped her skirt and clenched her teeth as she jumped off the carriage. But she wasn''t as nimble as Consort Min, who was always reading books and disliked exercise, so she couldn''t run fast! Concubine Liu turned back and grabbed Min Rou''s hand. "Which room is your mother-inw''s?" "This morning, I heard my mother say that the Zhou family''s servants went out to buy ice." "In the depths of winter, what need is there for that? You said your two daughters are seriously ill with wind and cold, with high fevers that won''t subside, at the very time you wanted to leave home..." Consort Min raised her eyebrows upon hearing this. "What does this mean? They''re using ice to harm the children at the Zhou family?" Min Rou was almost about to copse. "My mother-inw''s room is in the second hall." Consort Min''s eyes bulged with rage, and with a rip, she tore off the troublesome lower part of her dress. She then snatched the driver''s whip and charged into the Zhou Mansion, leaving the slow-moving Concubine Liu and Min Rou behind. The surrounding onlookers had just been cursing Concubine Liu and Consort Min for disregarding themon people''s lives and recklessly driving their carriage. But now, after hearing just a snippet, they were all boiling with indignation on the spot. "What''s going on, what''s going on?" "Buying ice in the winter? Children with high fevers and serious illness?" "Just to prevent the daughter-inw from leaving?" Themoners didn''t leave, gathering at the entrance of the Zhou Mansion to take a look. The guards at the Zhou Mansion wanted to go inform their master, but were all kicked down by Consort Min and the earlier-arriving Xiao Luzi. "Get out of the way!" Consort Min roared furiously, "Whoever blocks me will get a whipping, and I''m not joking!" With that, she stormed into the second hall. With a bang, she kicked open the door of the room. Looking left and right, she rushed into the warm room and saw the flustered,pletely distraught Mrs. Zhou! She was panicked and frantic, holding the three-year-old girl in her hands, trying to pull her out of the ice water and hide her under the nkets. But how could she hide it? In the warm room, the wooden tub for bathing the child was floating with threerge blocks of ice, emitting a chilly mist! The little girl stuffed into the bedding was still shivering! The bedding was soaked through,pletely icy cold to the touch! "You old hag! Are you even human!?" Consort Min, seeing this outrageous act for the first time,shed Mrs. Zhou''s back in her fury. "Ah!" Mrs. Zhou let out a shrill scream, a bloody mark appearing on her back! Consort Min, who was naturally bold, had only been restraining herself in the pce all these years. Now that she was out of the pce and witnessed such a despicable and hateful act, she could no longer hold back. After the firstsh, still unsatisfied, she threw the whip to the ground. Reaching out, she directly grabbed Mrs. Zhou and threw her into the ice water tub! "I''ll let you soak!" "You ck-hearted, foul-lunged old hag!" Concubine Liu and Min Rou rushed in, quickly having someone light the brazier and send for the doctor. As they spoke, they immediately stripped the little girl of her wet clothes and wrapped her in a clean cloak. "Close the door and the windows!" Fortunately, the little girl''s hair was still dry, indicating she hadn''t been soaked for too long. Concubine Liu, looking at the three-year-old child gradually regaining her rosy lips under the cloak and cotton nket, heaved a huge sigh of relief. ''Wow, Mother is amazing, she arrived just in time.'' ''Aunt Min is also awesome, when I grow up, I want to learn martial arts too. Whoever dares to bully me will get two good punches!'' Xiao Chuchu eximed excitedly. "Ah, murder! Let me go!" "I''m freezing to death!" Mrs. Zhou, a woman in her forties, was screaming miserably and shivering in the ice water tub. But Consort Min kept pressing her down, not letting go, and upon hearing her words, red. "You submerged your three-year-old granddaughter in ice water, and extinguished the fire, so howe you didn''t feel cold?!" Themoners outside the Zhou Mansion had seized the opportunity to join the spectacle. Gathered around the doorway, upon hearing this, they immediately erupted in an uproar. "Goodness, the old mistress of the Zhou family has a rotten heart!" "Harming her own granddaughter, forcing her own daughter-inw, my goodness, what kind of people are in the Zhou family!" "I was wrong to misjudge Concubine Liu and Consort Min, they are good people!" "It''s all thanks to Concubine Liu and Consort Min that the child in the ice water still has a chance to live!" "Concubine Liu and Consort Min are truly kind-hearted!" Themon people were simple. Liking or disliking someone depended solely on whether they saved people or harmed them. Concubine Liu and Consort Min''s reputations were instantly spreading through the streets. But Xiao Chuchu didn''tugh, even though the doctor who came to check on the little girl said she was fine, the cold hadn''t prated her bones, and she just needed to drink some hot soup. ''Sister Rou, you should take the child back to your parents'' home today.'' ''Your husband isn''t human.'' ''Just now, when they were bringing in the ice, he was there. Now that the wicked deed is done, he''s gone, not around, pretending to have nothing to do with it, when in fact he was the mastermind!'' Min Rou clenched her fists. ''Who would have thought, when his own daughter was submerged in ice water, he deliberately wasn''t there, and was flirting with the daughter of the Minister of Justice instead.'' [Shameless! Summoning me to Lan Shan Temple, iming it''s to pray for the health of my two daughters!] Min Rou nearly coughed up blood, her eyes rimmed with red as she trembled. "Concubine Liu, thank you for today." "I''m going to go find Zhou Muxin and demand a divorce right now!" She turned and hurried toward the terrified servant by her mother-inw''s side. "Tell me, where is Zhou Muxin?" Consort Min cracked her whip. Concubine Liu closed her eyes. She heard her daughter''s silent cries, and could not expose the truth, but she could guide others to it. "Was our carriage just now not the same one that passed Zhou Mansion''s carriage?" "Is that the direction of the East Market?" The servant flinched, falling to his knees and immediately confessing, "The Young Master went to Lan Shan Temple, beside the East Market." "Bind him up! Take him with us! Let''s be off!" Concubine Liu said firmly. Chapter 52 Chapter 52 The people from the Zhou Mansion who wanted to go out and pass on information were all tied up by Concubine Liu under themand of a few guards. Now that her intelligence has doubled, as soon as the Zhou Mansion''s servants'' eyes wandered, she knew what they were up to. "Let''s go!" After Concubine Liu had dealt with the affairs of the Zhou Mansion, she had someone summon the people from the Capital Official, then she hugged her daughter Chu Chu and got back into the carriage. Holding the whip, Consort Min helped Min Rou onto the carriage, then let out an "Ah!" She seemed to have just woken up from a dream, and as soon as she got on the carriage, she threw the whip away. "What am I holding this thing for, Amitabha." Concubine Liu: "..." Her mouth twitched, and she quietly watched Consort Min''s performance. [Haha, Aunt Min, if you could act a little more convincing~] Chu Chu couldn''t help but giggle. Consort Min blushed, "Ahem, Sister Concubine Liu, Sister Min Rou, you must remember, it wasn''t me who disciplined people in the room just now." "It was Concubine Liu who rushed in first and rescued the little girl. Ah, how could I possibly run that fast? I''m a person who eats vegetarian food and recites sutras every day..." Concubine Liu didn''t know what to say. Consort Min didn''t want the credit, she was just so dedicated to maintaining her image of a pious Buddhist. Min Rou even had a smile on her face. The doctor came and said the little girl was fine, so she wasn''t as anxious and worried anymore. And with Concubine Liu and Consort Min here, she now feels very at ease. "Thank you,dies." Consort Min waved her hand, acting as if it had nothing to do with her. Concubine Liu patted Min Rou, "What are you being so formal with me for? I''m counting on you to supervise the progress of the winter clothes." As they rode in the carriage, manymon people who wanted to see the excitement also followed behind. At that moment, there were countless people riding donkeys, running behind the carriage, or renting ox carts. [Wow, there are so many people here to watch the show. No matter what, everyone loves to gossip.] Chu Chu looked out the window with great interest. [Especially when ites to exposing a scumbag''s true colors, it''s going to be truly thrilling~] Hearing her daughter''s thoughts, Concubine Liu felt likeughing a little. But when she saw the downcast face of Min Rou and the pretend-reading of the sutras by Consort Min, she forcibly suppressed it. Smelling the milky scent of her daughter, Concubine Liu suddenly had a revtion the next moment, and immediately ordered the little servant Luo outside. "Go invite the Minister of Justice''s wife." "Have her secretly follow our carriage to Lan Shan Temple." Her daughter had reminded her. Everyone loves to gossip and watch the drama of exposing a scumbag''s true colors. How could they miss the other protagonist in the adultery story, the family of the Minister of Justice''s daughter? * In the outskirts of the capital, in the farnd. In the autumn and winter, the farmstead needs to take care of the winter wheat, and during the slight farming downtime, they also need to prune the fruit trees, and the slightlyrger households even have beans in the greenhouse to tend to. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, when he arrived at the ce, immediately had the Grand Secretariat and the Six Ministries follow him and get busy. These high officials, who usually don''t do farm work but mostly desk work, suddenly found it a bit hard to catch up. After working for more than a few hours, their backs and waists were aching, and they took the opportunity to drink water and ck off. There were also those who stood together, pretending to work, and started to ck off and chat. At this moment, Minister of Justice Fang Shu was standing with the imperial censor Hong Xing, who had persuaded Lao Laoye a few days ago. "Old Fang, your precious daughter is also of marriageable age now, have you arranged a betrothal yet?" Hong Xing asked with a smile. "How about I act as a matchmaker? Do you know Thousand Troops Commander Chen Wangwu of Shanhai Pass? He''s a young and talented man!" Minister Fang was quite tempted when he heard this. His daughter was still unmarried, but she had very high requirements, and she didn''t like the literati and officials'' sons in the capital. Hong Xing rmended Chen Wangwu, whose father was a general. Minister Fang found it quite appealing. Hong Xing raised his index finger, giving a "one" sign, "The Chen family is also supported by this one." Minister Fang was startled. The Shanhai Pass general was also part of the Empress''s faction, supporting the Eldest Prince? He was immediately both tempted and hesitant, "Mr. Hong, I need to discuss my daughter''s marriage with my wife." If he marries into the Chen family, it means he, the Minister of Justice, will also be aligned with the Empress and the Eldest Prince. "Heh, that''s right, a lifelongmitment needs to be carefully considered," Hong Xing said with a forced smile. "Old Fang, you were a Zhuangyuan (champion) in the imperial examinations, you must have read a lot of history books, and you should know how many times the Emperor did not favor the eldest or the firstborn." Minister Fang''s expression changed slightly. "While the Heir Apparent''s decree is still hidden behind the que in the Qianqing Pce, we still have a chance to do some maneuvering and help the one above." "If we wait any longer, everything will be gone." Hong Xing smiled and walked away with a hoe. Minister Fang''s face could not help but show some wavering. * In the Mansion of the Minister of Justice. The Minister''s wife was just seeing off the matchmaker, Lady Hong. What she said was exactly the same as what Hong Xing said. "The Chen family is backed by the Eldest Prince." Lady Hong hinted, then left with a smile. "Opportunities like this are getting fewer and fewer now." "The Luo family of the Fifth Prince doesn''t have any young talents for you to marry into." The Minister''s wife was perplexed. She didn''t want her daughter to be involved in the princes'' struggle for the throne, but what they said was the truth. The current Emperor is devoted to cultivation, and he most likely won''t have any more new princes. Among the existing princes, the Empress''s faction is the strongest, with the Eldest Prince being upright andpetent, having the potential to be a new Emperor. Inparison, the Fifth Prince''s Luo family is isted in the court, without any support. After considering, the Minister''s wife first excluded the Luo family and the Fifth Prince. Their family would rather not take a side, and they can''t side with the Luo family and the Fifth Prince. Otherwise, if the Fifth Prince loses, the small-minded Empress will definitely not let their family off the hook after the Eldest Prince ascends the throne! "Sigh," the Minister''s wife was a bit hesitant. After seeing the person off, she went to the room of the family''s old matriarch. "Mother, I''m really at a loss." "My idea is that our daughter still can''t marry into the Empress''s faction." "But secretly, we can provide more support to the Empress. What do you think, Mother?" This was essentially siding with the Empress covertly! The old matriarch nodded approvingly, "You''ve thought it through well." "I won''t hide from you, the Empress''s father, Lord Tong, has helped your father a lot. If it weren''t for the old Lord Tong, he might have only been a second-rank imperial schr, not a Zhuangyuan." The Minister''s wife was shocked, there was such a story. "The Eldest Prince''s maternal n, the Tong family, has considerable power, with both civil and military officials supporting them. As long as the Emperor turns a blind eye, the Luo family and the Fifth Prince won''t be able to match the Tong family..." The old matriarch lowered her voice, but halfway through, they heard a servant rushing in from outside. "Madam, old mistress, something has happened!" "A little eunuch from Concubine Liu''s side came and said that the Zhou family''s young master, a married man, is seducing our unmarried daughter for a secret rendezvous in the temple today! They told you to hurry!" "What!?" The Minister''s wife and the old matriarch were stunned and stood up. "Which Zhou family? Concubine Liu is talking nonsense!" "Ah, it''s that official Zhou Wu''xin who memorialized the Emperor to establish the Eldest Prince!" The Minister''s wife and the old matriarch exchanged a shocked look, both surprised and angry. It was the Zhou family, who were part of the Empress''s faction! Chapter 53 Chapter 53 The Lan Shan Temple was located in a remote area, and there were not many pilgrims visiting on ordinary days. Concubine Liu''s carriage stopped at the back gate of the Lan Shan Temple. Xiao Chuchu, wrapped in swaddling clothes, stared wide-eyed - [they were behind the Buddha statue closest to the entrance of the pilgrims'' courtyard!] Concubine Liu''s heart almost turned to stone when she heard this. This shameless man had the audacity to hide behind the Buddha statue and engage in an illicit affair! Concubine Liu gritted her teeth and said, "I came to the Lan Shan Temple with my mother once before, and the pilgrims usually stay in the courtyard behind the main entrance Buddha statue. Follow me." Min Rou''s face was deathly pale as she nced at the little princess in the swaddling clothes, then at the retreating back of Concubine Liu. She quickly suppressed the turbulent emotions welling up in her heart and hurried to follow. They soon reached the entrance of the pilgrims'' courtyard. It wasn''t long before voices were heard from behind the prayer Buddha statue at the artificial hill. "Zhou Liang, what do we do now? Your grandfather has been imprisoned, and he hasmitted such a dishonorable act against your wife. My parents will never allow me to marry into your family." The delicate voice of the young woman was anxious. Then came the soothing, mellow voice of a man. "Linr, I truly love you. I have been arguing with my wife daily, and we no longer have any feelings for each other. I''m nning to divorce her. Who would have thought this would happen?" "But the pressing matter now is that I cannot let you marry into the Zhou family and bear the scrutiny of others, nor the Emperor''s wrath." These words from the man caused the deathly pale Min Rou standing next to Concubine Liu to seethe with rage. It was the voice of Zhou Muxin! The same voice that had been constantly doting on her! Even if reduced to ashes, she would never mistake it. But what was he saying? That he and his wife had been arguing daily and no longer had any feelings for each other? Who was it that had been kneeling before her, tearfully begging her not to leave the Zhou family, not to leave him? "Linr, you are the only one in my heart and mind. Ah, but you know that if I divorce her at this time, the Emperor will hate the Zhou family even more, and everyone will think I''m just a despicable person trying to get rid of a wife who has been vited." Min Rou clenched her fists, her whole body trembling with anger. "But, Zhou Liang, I''m already carrying your child..." came the sobbing voice of the young woman. Concubine Liu, Consort Min, and even Min Rou were all stunned to hear this. The daughter of the Minister of Justice had already been intimate with Zhou Muxin and was now pregnant with his child!? [Damn, I knew it, she was already pregnant. No wonder in the novel, Aunt Min Rou didn''t pass away for long, less than three monthster, Zhou Muxin married the Minister of Justice''s daughter!] [It''s obvious, they conceived before marriage, and her belly couldn''t be hidden anymore, so they had to hurry and get married.] Little Xiao Chuchu was engrossed in the juicy gossip. "Linr, this child... cannot be kept." "Ah? But Zhou Liang, you didn''t say that before! You said that since the Min n had entered the Zhou household, they hadn''t produced a son for seven years, and your mother was unhappy with her, nning to divorce her using the seven conditions. You said you couldn''t stand her temperament and how she didn''t serve your mother, and that you would divorce her and marry me as the new mistress at the start of the new year." The Minister of Justice''s daughter broke down in tears. Concubine Liu was astounded. This despicable man not only betrayed the woman, but also pretended to be a good person and deceived her openly! "This vile man!" Consort Min''s temper couldn''t be contained, and she was about to charge forward, but a woman in an autumn-colored brocade robe, who looked to be of an advanced age, was faster. She nimbly leaped up from behind the Buddha statue and pped the burly man. "You vile creature, struck by lightning and devoured by demons! How dare you deceive my daughter!" "You scoundrel, your whole family is nothing but scoundrels, you deserve to be thrown in jail and executed!" Shrieking and wing wildly at the man behind the statue, this was none other than Lady Fang, the wife of the Minister of Justice! "Mother, Mother... why are you here?" the Minister''s daughter eximed in shock. "Miss Fang? Lady Fang?" Zhou Muxin backed away, looking as if he had seen a ghost, his face scratched by her nails. But as he retreated, he turned and saw his wife Min Rou, her chest heaving with indignation. "Min Rou, what are you doing here too?" Zhou Muxin''s face changed drastically. "Zhou Muxin, from this day on, I am no longer connected to you in any way!" Min Rou dered resolutely, raising her head. "No, not severed." "I will request awyer to inform you, along with thedy of the Zhou household, that you conspired with my grandfather to harm my two daughters! In the bitter cold of winter, you submerged them in ice water!" "I will also use you of deliberately allowing your grandfather tomit his indecent acts against me in the dead of night!" She closed her eyes, now fully understanding the situation. Did Zhou Muxin really not know about his grandfather''s actions? As the Captain of the Royal Guards, patrolling the city, how could he not be aware of his own grandfather''s movements? Zhou Muxin must have thought that since Min Rou couldn''t give him a son and her family background was not as prestigious, he could wait for his grandfather to harm her, forcing her tomit suicide and vacate the position of the main wife. Min Rou''s eyes were burning with fury. "Wait, let me exin!" The uniformed Zhou Muxin was now flustered. Without the protection of Zhou Wuxin, the Zhou family no longer had any officials above the fifth rank. But Min Rou was favored by the Emperor and was the intimate confidante of the beloved Concubine Liu. Zhou Muxin''s n had changed - he no longer intended to marry the Minister''s daughter, and now thought Min Rou would be better. "I am the child''s father, how could I harm the child? What are you talking about? I only want you to stay, I don''t want you to leave me." "Listen to me, I have no rtionship with the Miss Fang, she is the one who is being presumptuous and falsely using me." Miss Fang fainted upon hearing this. Lady Fang was so enraged that she stomped her feet, wanting to tear Zhou Muxin''s mouth apart. But Zhou Muxin took a step back to avoid her, then knelt in front of Min Rou. "Mother said that a little ice water would only give the child a cold for a few days, and then it would be fine. This was Mother''s idea, I couldn''t persuade her not to do it, it has nothing to do with me--" SLAP! Before he could finish, Min Rou pped him across the face. The bystanders were all stunned. Was this the admirable husband they had praised before? He was truly despicable! "Zhou Daren, stop your sophistry, just wait for your imprisonment." Concubine Liu sneered coldly. Zhou Muxin was drenched in sweat, bewildered and at a loss. How had he been exposed? How had Concubine Liu found out? * A small farmhouse in the suburbs of the capital. The Emperor had asked the officials to rest, and the imperial censor Hong Xing secretly approached Lord Fang, the Minister of Justice. But just as he was about to speak, he was interrupted by a servant rushing in from the Fang household. After whispering something to Lord Fang, thetter''s expression turned grim. "What''s wrong? Is there trouble at home?" The imperial censor Hong Xing, who was trying to persuade Lord Fang to support the Empress''s faction, asked with feigned concern. Suddenly, a cup of hot tea was thrown in his face! "Aah!" Hong Xing jumped up, scalded by the tea. "What are you doing?" Lord Fang pointed at him angrily, his body trembling. "What am I doing?" "I, Fang, swear that from this day on, I am your mortal enemy!" He had only one daughter! And she had been vited by the Zhou family faction! Lord Fang angrily snatched the guard''s sword, cut off his own sleeve, and threw it to the ground. "From now on, I renounce our alliance!" "This is to repay the kindness that Old Mr. Tong showed me all those years ago!" Hong Xing stared in disbelief, wiping the tea water off his face. "You, you¡ª" Before he could question further, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou had already turned his gaze towards them. Lord Fang, the Minister of Justice, immediately knelt before the Emperor. Bowing his head to the ground! "Your Majesty, I beg you to do justice for my young daughter!" "The son of Zhou WuXin, a model student raised by the Empress''s father, has deceived and humiliated my unmarried daughter!" Chapter 54 Chapter 54 "I will use the Empress''s father, Lord Tong Zhiqiu! He did not discipline his students properly and produced a vicious person!" The Minister of Justice, with tears and snot running down his face, knelt before Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, using the Empress''s father of not disciplining his students properly, resulting in a scoundrel in the world. The officials in the field were all shocked. Even the lobbyist Hong Xing, who had just been sshed with scalding hot tea, was dumbfounded and almost passed out from anger. "What is going on?" "The Zhou family, Zhou Wuxin is a lecherous and dishonorable person, and his grandson is the same?" "This is outrageous... Zhou Wuxin was a disciple of Old Lord Tong when he was in office, and Tong took him as a jinshi (imperial examination passer) that year." "Oh, Old Lord Tongter returned to his hometown in his old age and opened the Baisha Academy. I remember Zhou Wuxin sent his only grandson all the way to the Baishan Academy to study!" "My goodness, did Lord Fang not wrong Old Lord Tong? He really raised a pair of vicious grandfather and grandson!" The ministers dining in the field today were all famous officials in the capital. In addition, there were eunuchs, pce maids, and imperial guards apanying them. Suddenly, their expressions changed, and they began to discuss animatedly. Hong Xing, wiping the tea off his face, was about to vomit blood. He had just been lobbying Lord Fang, and it was clearly going to seed. He could see Lord Fang''s hesitation! Just as the other party was about to agree to stand with the Crown Prince and the Empress, the Zhou family, who were on the Empress''s side, did such a thing to his daughter!? Hong Xing''s current third-rank position was all thanks to the promotion by the Empress''s party. But now, he wanted to scold the Empress''s father, Old Lord Tong. That old man was blind, what kind of students did he take in! How could he drag them down like this! "I beg the Emperor to stand up for my daughter, imprison Zhou Muxin, and investigate thoroughly!" "The Zhou family has improper conduct, disgracing the literati, please the Emperor strip them of their titles!" Lord Fang, the Minister of Justice, obviously had a weak spot, and it was his beloved daughter. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou immediately had someone help him up and sent people to investigate immediately. "Lord Fang, please stand up first, if the Zhou family is truly as you said,mitting evil deeds, I will not let them off lightly." "Any person in the world must obey thew!" "Bullying themon people, bullying my daughter, I will not let them off lightly!" Only then did Lord Fang, wiping his tears, shakily stand up and thank the Emperor. He then quickly walked up to Master Liu. The officials looked at each other in amazement. Even Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was puzzled. But they saw Lord Fang respectfully prostrate himself before Master Liu, "Today, my daughter has woken up, and I also need to thank Lord Liu, thank Concubine Liu." The officials were shocked. What''s going on with the Liu family?! It turns out that the Liu family was prescient! Howe they were always the first to get involved, know about it first, and take action? The officials were speechless. Soon, the eunuch sent by the Emperor came back to report. "Your Majesty, the matter is true." "Concubine Liu and Old Madam of Liu Family organized thedies today to make winter clothes for the refugees. As they worked, Old Madam of Liu was chatting with Concubine Liu, saying that they saw the Zhou family''s servants buying ice to take back this morning." "Concubine Liu didn''t think much of it at first, butter she saw Zhou family''s daughter-inw, Lady Min, and heard her say that her child had a high fever a few days ago and suddenly caught a cold." The officials, hearing this, had changing expressions on their faces. They were all shrewd, and after connecting the front and back parts, their imaginations ran wild. Sure enough, the eunuch continued, "Concubine Liu immediately felt something was wrong, and led Lady Min and Consort Min to the Zhou mansion." "Who would have thought that after entering the mansion, they saw the Zhou family''s daughter being soaked in ice water by the Zhou family''s wife." Wow! The officials eximed in an uproar. Even though they had vaguely guessed it just now, hearing it now still shocked them by the cruelty of the Zhou family. "Concubine Liu was furious and immediately questioned the child''s father about why his mother-inw was so ruthless." "It turned out that the servant said the father had gone to Lan Shan Temple, so Concubine Liu took people to look for him." "Who would have thought, they saw Zhou Muxin there, deceiving the daughter of Lord Fang, the Minister of Justice, behind the Buddha statue." The officials were so shocked that their jaws dropped. What kind of show was the Zhou family putting on, even more outrageous than what was performed on the stage! Lord Fang, the Minister of Justice, heard more and more, his face growing darker. He looked at Hong Xing, who had asked him to help the Empress, and directly spat heavily! "I, Fang, am ashamed to associate with such scoundrels!" "Your Majesty, I failed to discipline my daughter, I request to return home!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou helped him up, thinking of his own little princess, and also felt that Lord Fang had not cared enough for his daughter and failed to educate her. He then nodded, "Go home and you are excused, but I will punish you by transferring you to serve as the prefect of Zhe Province, and during your transfer, I order you to teach your daughter for one hour every day." Lord Fang was amazed when he heard this, and then tears flowed down his cheeks as he kowtowed. This was the emperor doing him a favor! In the capital, the scandal of his daughter could no longer be concealed, being transferred to the outside of the capital, his daughter could start anew! "I will be loyal to Your Majesty with my life!" Lord Fang was deeply moved. He then went to bow towards Master Liu in the distance. After the meal, the officials followed the Emperor back to the inner city. On the way, Xiao Yunzhou found Master Liu and spoke with him, his expression quite appreciative, "It seems Concubine Liu has also inherited Master Liu''s keen perception." Master Liu''s heart was pounding, giving a chuckle. Where did he inherit it? Just the ability to understand the little princess''s heart? * Outside the pce, in the clothing workshop. Concubine Liu saw that it was gettingte and prepared to take her daughter Chu Chu back to the pce. Xiao Chu Chu had already fallen asleep. She had forcibly stayed awake to watch the excitement at the Lan Shan Temple, and now she could no longer hold on, sleeping sweetly in the carriage. "I''ll go up to the carriage first to read some Buddhist scriptures." Consort Min considerately left the room for Concubine Liu and Old Madam of Liu to have a private conversation. The pce maids, nannies, and Zhang Jia all left the room. Concubine Liu and Old Madam of Liu sat there, looking at each other. "Mother... I told people it was you who informed me about the Zhou family buying ice, so I discovered the Zhou family''s wrongdoing." Concubine Liu gritted her teeth and said. Old Madam of Liu took a deep breath, her gaze struggling to remain calm. After a while, she tentatively lowered her voice and asked, "My dear, can you also hear the little princess''s heart?" Concubine Liu was startled, hastily checking the windows to make sure they were closed. After confirming that no one else could hear, she looked at her mother in amazement, "You can also hear it?" "Ah, of course!" Old Madam of Liu excitedly pped her thigh, "Your father can hear it too!" Concubine Liu was shocked, her father had disguised it so well that even she was deceived. "Ah, we have to pretend, not to let the Emperor know," Old Madam of Liu said worriedly after the excitement. Concubine Liu also frowned. Mother and daughter silently understood, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, like other historical emperors, was suspicious in character. After learning that Consort Fu wanted to use poison pills to harm him and seize the throne, Xiao Yunzhou inevitably became more suspicious of others. "My dear, you must be very careful in the pce, never let the Emperor know that you can also hear the little princess''s heart." Old Madam of Liu warned. Being close to the Emperor is like being close to a tiger, they seemed to have a bright future ahead. But unless their grandson Cheng Qian ascended the throne, their lives and deaths would still be in the Emperor''s hands. Emperors can make the clouds turn and the rain fall, their joy and anger only depend on a single thought. "Besides us few, who else can hear the little princess''s heart?" Old Madam of Liu asked cautiously. Concubine Liu held her hand, "Cheng Qian can also hear it." Old Madam of Liu breathed a sigh of relief, "That''s good. Let him be careful too, the position of Crown Prince is more likely to make the Emperor suspicious." Concubine Liu nodded with worry. Seeing that the time was not early, they could not continue to chat. They agreed to meet again the next day to continue making winter clothes in the small courtyard, and Old Madam of Liu asked what the little princess liked, reluctantly sending her daughter and granddaughter back to the pce in the carriage. Concubine Liu held the adorable sleeping Chu Chu all the way, not letting go until she slowly woke up. But as soon as they entered the pce gates, they saw the imperial favorite Wei Zheng by the Emperor''s side. "Concubine Liu, the Emperor has instructed me to wait here for you," Wei Zheng said with a smile on his face. "He misses the young Miss and wants you to bring her directly to his study." Concubine Liu immediately grew wary and clutched the sleeping infant in her arms protectively. "Madam, don''t worry. Not only is the Emperor there, but the Princes are also present, so the young Miss will be in good hands." Concubine Liu did not dare to rx her guard at all as she followed Wei Zheng and rode the sedan chair to the Imperial Pce. As soon as she carried her freshly awakened daughter into the pce, she nearly stumbled at the threshold. [Ah, I''m back at the pce? Hmm, are these my other brothers?] Xiao Chuchu, carried in by Concubine Liu, caught sight of the line of Princes standing before the Emperor''s desk. This was the first time she had seen them. The sight immediately startled her. [Oh my goodness! The Fourth Prince''s intelligence is only 49, he''s failing!] Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s smile froze on his face the moment he saw his daughter. Concubine Liu''s mouth twitched, and she nearly turned back. Chapter 55 Chapter 55 In the Emperor''s study, a line of princes, from eldest to youngest, stood respectfully. Upon returning from farming today, Xiao Yunzhou felt deeply that entrusting the education of children to the tutors in the study room was ultimately unreliable, especially after encountering the issue with the Minister of Justice''s daughter. It''s like Lord Tong, the father of the Empress, who was once the Prime Minister of Three Reigns, what good did it do? The students he taught were worse than pigs and dogs. On his way back to the pce, Xiao Yunzhou thought about his own children. "Princes, you will be responsible for the development of the entire Jing Country in the future!" Therefore, as soon as Xiao Yunzhou returned to the pce, he called his sons for assessment. "Your Majesty, the articles written by the princes are all here," the eunuch holding a stack of papers handed them to the Emperor. These were impromptu essays. Xiao Yunzhou had called the sons from the study room and asked them to write a recent reflection. But at this moment, as he held the papers in his hand, he couldn''t bring himself to read further. His gaze suffocatingly fixed on Concubine Liu as she walked in, carrying their adorable daughter. Looking at his beloved little princess, Chu Chu, the Emperor felt increasingly suffocated. "Whoa, the Fourth Prince''s intelligence is 49, two points lower than the maid Autumn Pear beside my mother!" Chu Chu, nestled in Concubine Liu''s arms, with her palm-sized rosy cheeks, curiously looked at the princes in the hall. They were all her nominal brothers. "Oh my swan, the little eunuch who pours tea for my Emperor father has an intelligence of 56, ten points higher than my Fourth Prince brother!" "Save me!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou held the princes'' essays, feeling like he was about to spew old blood. What? His Imperial sons, stupider than pce maids and eunuchs? That little eunuch who pours tea, just punished the other day for clumsily spilling tea, was scolded by Wei Zheng as dumb as a pig! His own Fourth Prince, a royal prince, was even worse than a pig? Xiao Yunzhou''s face alternated between red and ck. Several princes were oblivious, only the Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, and Concubine Liu at the door silently lowered their heads, pretending not to have heard anything. Wei Zheng, who came in with Concubine Liu, had always been the worm in the Emperor''s belly, and inexplicably, he felt a chill down his neck. Did the Emperor seem to me him with his gaze? Seems a bit using! Unfair. Wei Zheng couldn''t understand, did he do something wrong? Xiao Yunzhou''s expression was ambiguous, he reached out to Concubine Liu, lowering his voice as gently as possible so as not to startle their precious daughter. "Come, bring Our little princess over here." Concubine Liu lowered her head, nced at Chu Chu who was excitedlyparing the intelligence of the princes and eunuchs with her grape-sized eyes, then slowly brought her over. "I''ll rest in the warm chamber for a while." Xiao Yunzhou breathed a sigh of relief, took the child and nodded approvingly, "Yes, you go rest." Even if others couldn''t hear, just having one less person present made the Emperor feel a bit morefortable about his sons being as dumb as pigs. After having Wei Zheng close the door, Xiao Yunzhou yed with Chu Chu for a while, then slowly walked over to the Crown Prince. "Regarding the appointment of the Crown Prince, Our arrangement, you''ve all heard from the tutors in the study room, right?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze fell upon the face of the Crown Prince. The Crown Prince immediately lowered his head, answering with his brothers, "Son understands." "Son thinks Father''s decision is right," the Crown Prince was the first to express loyalty. Xiao Yunzhou nodded in satisfaction, but he was soon taken aback by the criticism from his beloved little princess in his arms. "So, this is my eldest brother, the Crown Prince? I heard that the Crown Prince ranks first in the study room. Oh, it turns out the Crown Prince''s intelligence is the same as my mother''s, 76." Xiao Yunzhou was greatly shocked. What? His eldest son''s level of intelligence, the same as Concubine Liu''s? Then, the one who bore Concubine Liu, Liu Lao, must be very clever! How could he have mistakenly thought Liu Lao was dull before? It turns out the Liu family has always been wise, despite appearing foolish. Xiao Yunzhou felt a bit of a headache; after all, he used to favor the Crown Prince the most. If it weren''t for the recent prominence of the Fifth Prince and the overbearing nature of the Queen''s family, he would have indeed given the position of Crown Prince to the Crown Prince. But now knowing that the Crown Prince''s intelligence is on par with one of his pce concubines, Xiao Yunzhou felt a bit speechless. Concubine Liu is not like the princes who have great schrs from the Hanlin Academy as their teachers! "Huh? The Second Prince is actually smarter than the Crown Prince; his intelligence is 80. Well, he hides it really well; he''s always inconspicuous." Xiao Yunzhou was shocked. Standing beside him, the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, upon hearing his sister''s words, subtly flickered his lowered eyelids. Who would have thought that the most low-key Second Prince in the study room actually had a talent? But when Xiao Chuchu''s tone changed, she chuckled, "The intelligence of the Third Prince is only 67, the same as the chief eunuch Wei Zheng." "Pfft¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou had just freed up a hand to drink tea and ended up spraying it all out. Okay. One prince is worse than a tea-carrying eunuch, one prince has the same intelligence as his concubine, and one prince finally catches up to the most skilled tterer, the chief eunuch! Xiao Yunzhou was truly about to vomit blood. What''s going on? Does heaven really want to destroy his Jing Country? Each generation is worse than thest! "Thankfully, my mother is clever. Heh heh, so my brother also inherited this wisdom, with an initial intelligence of 88." Xiao Chuchu''s gaze of satisfaction fell on her own elder brother, Fifth Prince Cheng Qian. Xiao Yunzhou finally breathed a sigh of relief. Alright, alright, finally, his efforts weren''t in vain, he gave birth to an intelligent one. With an intelligence of eighty-eight,pared to the forty-something of the previous three princes, it''s directly doubled! Xiao Yunzhou was touched, looking at his fifth son Cheng Qian, he really felt that his solemn adult appearance, especially with his clear and intelligent eyes, exuded a sense of cleverness. The Liu family is good; from Liu Lao to Concubine Liu, they''re all smart. This gave him a son with extraordinary intelligence! Xiao Yunzhou looked forward to his own little princess, really wanting to know what his own intelligence was, but also feeling a bit shy. As for Xiao Chuchu, after seeing the Sixth Prince and the Seventh Prince, both at the level of seventy, she became a bit bored and cast her gaze on her emperor father. Not looking, not knowing, one look startled her. Xiao Chuchu widened her eyes, "Emperor Dad''s intelligence is actually the same as my brother''s, also eighty-eight." Xiao Yunzhou burst intoughter instantly. Indeed, it''s him! His daughter said that apart from Cheng Qian, she had never seen such high intelligence! Alright, alright! He''s also a clever one. Xiao Yunzhou breathed a sigh of relief, then immediately raised an eyebrow and summoned Wei Zheng. "Go, send someone to summon all the ministers of the Imperial Cab and the six ministries to the pce." Wei Zheng was puzzled. Didn''t the Emperor just allow the ministers to return home from the countryside? But he dared not disobey and quickly epted the decree to carry it out. Before long, the ministers, who had justid down for a rest at home, were both surprised and puzzled, and could only support their aging bodies and hurriedly enter the pce. "Why has the Emperor summoned us?" "If it''s not urgent, on days of leisure, the Emperor should let us rest at home more. We ministers are all nearing sixty, as Confucius said..." The ministers grumbled. Who the heck farms in the morning and has to enter the pce at night? Today is supposed to be a day of rest, for rest''s sake! But Xiao Yunzhou, with aplicated expression, held the princess in his hands as if she were a treasure, passing by each of them. Not only did he ignore their protests, but his face also grew darker and darker. [Oh my, who is this? The Vice Minister of Personnel, an aplished schr? Smart as a whip with an IQ of 39? Competing with the Fourth Prince who can''t even recite texts?] [Heavens above, even the eunuch who serves tea to the Emperor has an IQ of 56 and could be the Minister of Personnel!] Xiao Yunzhou nearly fainted! Chapter 56 Chapter 56 In the Emperor''s study. Xiao Yunzhou resisted the urge to look down at the precious daughter in his arms. Meanwhile, Xiao Chuchu''s cheeks flushed red with excitement as she eagerly scanned the faces of every minister entering the study. Her "Scent of Intelligence" skill had leveled up to LV2, allowing her to double the intelligence of people within a one-step radius, with only three uses per day. Today, she had already used up her allotted uses, investing them in her birth mother, elder brother, and nanny, Zhang Jia. Currently, her "Scent of Intelligence" skill was grayed out, indicating it could not be used again. However, she could still glean the initial intelligence of everyone around her. Initially amused by the spectacle, she couldn''t help but burst intoughter upon further observation. "No wonder Jing Country is on the brink of copse." "These high-ranking officials are not very bright, are they? Even though effort canpensate for shorings, how can someone like this, the Vice Minister of Personnel, hold such a crucial position? Can''t they find someone more capable than this idle nobleman who hasn''t even bothered to study?" "With such poor abilities, yet holding such high positions of power in the nation, governing the livelihoods of the people, it''s truly disheartening!" Xiao Chuchu furrowed her tiny brows in the swaddle. But there was nothing she could do; the system hadbeled her as the "Beloved Princess of a Dying Nation," and it wasn''t without reason. "No wonder Jing Country''s national strength ranks outside the top twenty!" Xiao Yunzhou felt his vision darken. Could his fairy-like little princess really perceive the national strengths of various countries? Was Jing Country really that feeble? Once, during the reign of his ancestors, Jing Country was unassable, receiving tributes and worship from surrounding nations. And now, it hade to this? "Your Majesty summoned us. What''s the urgent matter?" "Why does Your Majesty conduct state affairs while holding the little princess?" "Affection between parent and child is unsuitable for imperial governance. Your Majesty, please have the little princess and the princes go to the side hall for serious discussions with us." The ministers of the Cab and the six ministries all voiced their discontent. These officials, who had served for generations and even hailed from distinguished families of the nation''s founding heroes, upied high positions. They were not afraid of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou because they had numerous connections passed down from their ancestors and teachers. Some even held imperial pardons granted by the founding emperor, passed down through generations. Therefore, they were arrogant, asionally giving Emperor Xiao Yunzhou a hard time to remind him that they were not to be trifled with. Even though they had lost the upper hand in the matter of appointing the Crown Prince, they were quick to reim their authority in discussions. "Your Majesty, holding the little princess like this, what kind of example does it set? It''s more fitting for a pce concubine!" "Your Majesty''s behavior, if seen by schrs throughout the realm, I can only imagine the ridicule!" Jiang Yixu, a Vice Minister of Personnel with a background as an Imperial Censor, was especially vehement, even resorting to questioning the Emperor''s gender! Jiang Yixu''s rise from a seventh-ranking Imperial Censor to Vice Minister was fueled by his sharp tongue. He was known for his poisonous and quick wit. Normally, he acted as a sharp knife in the Cab, never missing an opportunity to criticize the Emperor, earning him the admiration of other ministers who thought of him as a breath of fresh air, considering him exceptionally formidable. Today, the other ministers were equally admiring, nodding in agreement. But halfway through the conversation, they began to feel that something was off. In the study hall where official matters were discussed, a gust of wind arose, sending shivers down their spines. Wei Zheng, the head eunuch who knew the emperor''s temperament best, had long since retreated far away. Looking at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, they were surprised to find him not angry but rather amused. Normally, if the emperor waspared to a concubine from the imperial harem, he would be furious, but today he simply chuckled at them. "Do schrs across the realm mock Us?" he asked with a chuckle. "Indeed," came the reply. The ministers stiffened. Jiang Yixu, the Vice Minister of Personnel who led the charge against the emperor, showed a change in expression. Was the emperor losing his temper again? Farming in the morning, what was he up to in the afternoon? Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze wandered to Jiang Yixu''s face, ears perked up. Sure enough, he heard his daughter''s voice, "Jiang Yixu, tsk tsk, no wonder even with an IQ of 39, he can still be the Vice Minister of Personnel. Turns out, he doesn''t understand books but has been a foul-mouthed troublemaker since childhood." "Not only did he bribe the chief examiner of the imperial examinations, but he also had financial dealings with many servants of the ministers'' households." "Every time the ministers wanted to target someone, he got the news in advance and immediately ndered them during the morning court session." "In fact, he hasn''t even mastered the Four Books and Five ssics, but his insults are as venomous as a street thug''s. He climbed the ranks and amassed wealth solely by his proficiency in cursing." "Schrs across the realm always thought he was a rare breed, daring to scold the emperor and speak the truth, but s, he''s just a fool and a troublemaker!" The string in Xiao Yunzhou''s mind snapped! He red at the Vice Minister of Personnel with an IQ of 39, Jiang Yixu! He saw a man nearing forty, still handsome, but with a look of arrogance on his face. He had thought before that Jiang Yixu was a beacon of righteousness among schrs! He even tolerated this foul-mouthed guy who repeatedly scolded him, the emperor, in court! "Very well," Xiao Yunzhouughed heartily, gazing at this half-hearted fellow! "You''re a schr, We are not. We are mocked by schrs across the realm, while you are praised by them." "What a schr you are, hahaha!" Xiao Yunzhouughed heartily, leaning back. The group of ministers felt something was amiss. The imperial princes in the study had not yet left and were all stunned. Only Cheng Qian, the Fifth Prince, looked at Jiang Yixu, who was basking in his IQ of 39, still defiantly challenging the emperor, with aplex expression, sighing and shaking his head. Indeed, just as Jiang Yixu was about to speak, the emperor, Xiao Yunzhou, loudly interrupted him. "Vice Minister of Personnel Jiang Yixu, in which year did you pass the imperial examinations?" "Who was the chief examiner?!" Jiang Yixu, who was singled out, froze. The prime minister and other high-ranking officials beside him showed various expressions of astonishment. What''s going on?! Why did the emperor suddenly ask this? A few officials among them, in particr, looked flustered. Vice Minister of Personnel Jiang Yixu frowned, but still calmly replied, "In response to Your Majesty''s question, I passed the imperial examinations in the fourteenth year of the Zhenning era." As he spoke, he lowered his head, his breathing slightly erratic. But soon, he adjusted himself and smiled at the emperor. "Why does Your Majesty ask such a question?" Jiang Yixu clenched his hands within his official robes. This couldn''t be happening. The emperor couldn''t have found out about his bribery of the examination officials! How long ago was that? Seventeen years ago! During the reign of the former emperor, the emperor couldn''t possibly question the former emperor''s decisions regarding him! "Considering it, I''ve served in two dynasties as an official. When I was chosen by the former emperor, I vowed to dedicate my life to the prosperity of Jing Country!" Jiang Yixu lifted his head proudly, his expression stern as he lectured Emperor Xiao Yunzhou as he had done before. "So, Your Majesty, if there''s anything wrong, I will surely offer my advice!" Bah¡ª Xiao Yunzhou almost disregarded the imperial decorum and spat right on the face of this shameless fellow! He was livid! As the Vice Minister of Personnel, as Little Missy had stated, Jiang Yixu held the second-highest rank in the Ministry of Personnel. And the Ministry of Personnel was responsible for the transfer, appointment, promotion, and evaluation of officials throughout the empire! A fellow with an intelligence quotient of 39, incapable of schrly pursuits, relied on bribing the eunuchs close to the high officials to get advance knowledge of the court''s movements and climbed to this position by hurling insults! How could such a person be qualified to manage and evaluate the officials of the empire? Jiang Yixu gazed at the emperor''s displeased expression and spoke earnestly, "Unpleasant truths may offend, Your Majesty. I am strict with you only because of my loyalty to the former emperor." "If Your Majesty finds it disagreeable, then punish me." "But even if I fall, there will be countless schrs stepping forward to rece me in advising Your Majesty!" Xiao Yunzhou red, unable to contain himself any longer. "You and your schrs can go to hell!" "Jiang Yixu,st year''s pce examination''s third question, you''ll answer it on the spot now!" "The Great Learning teaches us, ''The path of virtue lies in the cultivation of personal morality, in the love for the people, and in the pursuit of ultimate goodness.'' What does this mean?!" Chapter 57 Chapter 57 The entire study fell silent. "Jiang Yixu!" The emperor threw out his interrogation out of the blue. "What is the meaning of this phrase from the Great Learning?!" The ministers in the room werepletely puzzled. "What does Your Majesty mean by this?" "Why suddenly have Minister Jiangpose an article, and on the Great Learning?" "So simple, what''s so difficult about it?" From the chief minister Fucha to the three vice ministers, none of the ministers in the council chamber understood. They were finding it increasingly difficult to grasp the emperor''s style of governance. For the emperor to hold court with little Princess in his arms was already unusual. Now, he was even posing examination questions! And to top it off, the question was ridiculously easy; anyone who had read a book would know the answer. The ministers were all baffled. But soon, officials from the six ministries began to feel something was amiss. Because Jiang Yixu, who was being questioned, went from proud and aloof to gradually pale. He stiffened his mouth, and surprisingly began to tremble speechlessly. The other officials beside him, who initially thought the emperor''s question was nonsensical, were now waiting in vain for Jiang Yixu''s answer! The bewildered expressions of the ministers gradually turned into shock! They all looked incredulously at Jiang Yixu! Emperor Xiao Yunzhou sneered coldly, "Why is Minister Jiang suddenly silent?" "When you were insulting Us just now, your words flowed eloquently. Now, why¡ªhave you lost your voice?" Jiang Yixu trembled. The ministers raised their eyebrows. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou took a step forward with little Princess in his arms. "Jiang Yixu, could it be that you can''t even produce an essay for the pce examination?" "Could it be that you can''t even exin the outline of the Great Learning?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was furious, then mocked. "The way of the Great Learning is to manifest virtue, to renovate the people, and to rest in the highest excellence." This examination question was so simple that even a mere schr could articte it fluently. Because it is the opening sentence of the Great Learning! It''s taught by every teacher as an introduction to the Great Learning! Anyone who doesn''t know this sentence is no different from a semi-literate in the imperial examination! "I, I, have been busy with official duties for many years, and haven''t read a book for a long time." Jiang Yixu''s knees buckled instantly, sweat pouring down his forehead as he knelt, "I am ashamed, I have forgotten... forgotten its meaning..." The ministers were speechless. Even the chief minister Fucha was stunned, staring with his old, dim eyes wide open. They simply couldn''t believe there was such a foolish person among them. The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Personnel... actually forgot the meaning of the first sentence of a book! The magnitude of his examination scores was enough to flood the entire hall! Emperor Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes. "While I cradle my daughter and handle state affairs, I''m about to be ridiculed by schrs throughout the realm." "But schrs throughout the realm do not know that the so-called pirs of society they believe in are utterly clueless." "They are truly ignorant!" "Worse than useless!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou spat on Jiang Yixu''s head! He spat on the faces of the ministers! "Immediately arrest Jiang Yixu and strip him of his titles! Summon themander of the Imperial Guards to investigate the qualifications of all imperial examination candidates over the years!" "Furthermore, five days from now, a table will be set up inside Zhengyang Gate for me to test the civil and military officials!" "Ridiculous! Resign on your own ord, or undergo the ancient ritual of studying diligently suspended from a beam or pricking your thighs to read for Us!" Jiang Yixu copsed like a soft bone on the ground. The courtiers were stunned. What? Mu Xiu was not satisfied with just farming; he wanted to retake the exam too? Damn it! Even the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister stared at Jiang Yixu like he was their enemy! This troublemaker! They were utterly victimized! After venting, Xiao Yunzhou still felt unsatisfied, feeling that he hadn''t let off enough steam. With a wave of his hand, hemanded, "Wei Zheng, organize an assessment in five days. Arrange those who have criticized Us in the first two rows! We want to focus on grading them." "I want to see what kind of people are advising Us!" The courtiers were dumbfounded. [Wow, the Emperor is imposing! Our Jing Country is on fire!] Xiao Chuchu, nestled in the Emperor''s arms, happily shook a tambourine with her little hands, creating a lively rhythm. [Wemoners are so happy today!] [The Emperor is doing great, promoting capable people to serve! If you''re not capable, then get lost!] Xiao Yunzhou almost smiled, but immediately gritted his teeth, maintaining a serious demeanor in front of the courtiers. His darling little princess spoke so eloquently and cutely. It made him feel proud. Not to mention, after venting his frustrations on the officials, he felt incredibly satisfied. "Well, Wei Zheng, draft another edict for Us." "Liu Wenchang, temporarily assume the position of Deputy Minister of Personnel." Xiao Yunzhou''s mood improved, and he remembered to reserve the vacancy for the recently aplished Liu family patriarch. Wei Zheng was secretly shocked. The officials from the Cab and the six ministries were speechless. Liu Patriarch got promoted again!? Just recently, he was fourth rank, and now he''s directly third rank? Liu Patriarch wasn''t even summoned by the Emperor; he''s still at home! Damn it, he got promoted again just like that? Several officials were about to retort, but Xiao Yunzhou dismissed them. "Go study, We will test you in five days." "Whoever fails, don''t me Us for being heartless." "If Liu Patriarch can do it, so can you. We won''t show favoritism!" The courtiers gasped. Meanwhile, Xiao Chuchu quickly received a notification from her system. "Congrattions to the host, the Emperor has removed a corrupt official (Third Rank), assessed the officials, and the national strength of Jing Country is slightly increasing." Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but grin. * Outside the Imperial City, at the Min residence. Xiao Chuchu''s grandmother, Madam Min, personally escorted Min Rou and her frightened daughters back home. Madam Min, looking at her emaciated daughter and her grandchildren, tears almost fell as she held hands with the Old Madam of Liu Family and was reluctant to let go. "If it weren''t for you and the Empress, we wouldn''t know what would have happened." "We''re too busy today; otherwise, we''d invite you to stay for dinner before leaving." The children still needforting, and Min Rou''s eyes were red too. It would be impolite to entertain guests now. But as soon as Madam Min finished speaking, Min Rou stepped forward with red eyes, "Mother, it''s okay. Lady Liu and Madam Min are kind and wouldn''t mind such things." She bowed to the Old Madam of Liu Family, "Grandmother, are you hungry? Pleasee in and have a meal before leaving." Madam Min frowned. "Oh, no need, I''m not hungry. I''ll go back and check on my old man at home first. He went out to work in the fields today, I wonder how his old back is holding up." Old Madam of Liu Family didn''t hesitate, quickly bidding farewell. "Don''t worry about it, it''s the least we can do." After Old Madam of Liu Family left in the carriage, she even left behind some pastries for the children. The olddy of the Min family watched the carriage leave before furrowing her brows slightly and turning to her daughter. "What''s going on? Why was your behavior so inappropriate today?" "One should still observe proper etiquette, especially considering that the Liu family saved you and the children''s lives. How could you be disrespectful?" Min Rou took a deep breath. If it were merely a matter of gratitude, she definitely wouldn''t have let Old Madam of Liu Family stay for a meal today. She would have waited until she was fully recovered and then brought the children to express their thanks formally. But... Min Rou closed her eyes and remembered the soft voice she heard while sewing winter clothes. Her eldest daughter would be the wife of the fifth prince of the Liu family in the future. The Min and Liu families would be inws in the future. Min Rou looked at her own mother with aplex expression. "Mother, don''t ask. But in any case, we should strive to improve ourselves in the future, show respect and gratitude to the Liu family, and not be too distant." She had a lot on her mind. Otherwise? Should she mention that as the future mother-inw of the legitimate brother of the little princess, she heard the inner thoughts of the little princess? Min Rou swallowed her words and simply looked towards the distant pce walls. "Mother, I want to hire a tutor for Zhi''er and Lu''er." "What?" Madam Min was surprised. "A woman without talents is virtuous!" Min Rou shook her head. Her gaze was determined. Old Madam of Liu Family and the concubine of Liu Family were both literate. Compared to her, who easily panicked when faced with problems, they were much calmer. If it weren''t for their quick andposed handling of the situation today, her Lu''er might have been lost. It was evident that women should also be educated! "I''ve already made up my mind. Relying on beauty and serving others won''t work in the long run. Only by standing on our own can women truly thrive!" Min Rou hoped that both her daughters would be self-reliant and able to live well even without a husband. With a husband, they could advance together! "I''ll look for a tutor tomorrow." Old Madam of Min was astonished. And Old Madam of Liu Family, who hurriedly returned home in the carriage, was also shocked. As soon as she got off the carriage, she heard Wei Zheng''s announcement. "Congrattions, Old Master Liu, you''ve been promoted to the third-rank Gentleman of Attendants." What? Old Madam of Liu Family froze in ce at the news. She had only been out for a day, and the Liu family had been promoted again? Their rank was growing faster than the radishes in her garden! But Wei Zheng''s next words left the couple dumbfounded. "In five days, the Emperor will assess all the officials. If Old Master Liu fails, the Emperor will dismiss him," Wei Zheng reminded them. Old Master Liu: "..." Old Madam Liu: "..." They looked at each other with strange expressions, a mix of joy and restraint. Oh dear, maybe they weren''t good at anything else. But they weren''t afraid of exams. Old Master Liu had studied for the imperial examinations for over a decade, taking the test a whopping three times! His exam results were truly impable! Who knows how many sets of past exam questions he had done over the years! Chapter 58 Chapter 58 In the Study Room. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou scolded off several important ministers from the Cab and Six Ministries, then regained hisposure and began speaking to his sons in front of him. "You all saw just now. The ipetent do not deserve high positions. This applies to ministers, and even more so to the Crown Prince." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze swept over each of his sons. "If today I were to pass the throne to you, and tomorrow you prove incapable, I will take it back." As he spoke, he sat back on the dragon throne behind the desk, holding his daughter Xiao Chuchu tightly. Xiao Chuchu squirmed ufortably in his arms, but her grape-like eyes sparkled upon hearing his words. [Yes, Father Emperor is right.] [We must not only consider the present, but also have a long-term perspective.] "Although innate intelligence levels have a certain impact on future achievements, even the Crown Prince, who is still a minor, can improve his thinking abilities through diligent study," Xiao Chuchu had heard in modern times about the importance of early childhood education in developing intelligence. It is evident that intelligence is not fixed, but can be enhanced through education. "I think that exposing children to new things and enhancing their hands-on abilities can make them smarter," Xiao Chuchu pondered. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou immediately focused his attention, listening intently. Especially when he looked at the Fourth Prince, who was currently less intelligent than the eunuch serving tea, and the Third Prince who was not as good as Wei Zheng, he felt anxious. Including his fifth son, Cheng Qian, whom he was preparing to pass the throne to, also had an intelligence level of eighty-eight, just like him. Talented individuals emerge in every generation. Although Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was suspicious, he still hoped that the next generation of emperors who would seed him would be stronger than himself. This way, the Jing Country would continue to prosper. "Sons will heed Father Emperor''s teachings," the Crown Prince took the lead in expressing his loyalty in front of the Emperor, "Sons will not ck off in the future. I have read the books taught by the teachers in the Study Room more than one hundred and fifty times." This was taught by the Empress. Xiao Yunzhou nodded. It goes without saying that the Empress''s family had a certain way of teaching, producing many schrs. In this aspect, he trusted the Empress''s family. Now looking at the Crown Prince, it was clear that his intelligence was not low. Was this the intelligence improvement brought about by education? Xiao Yunzhou was pleased and was about to speak, suggesting that the other princes, especially his highly anticipated fifth son Cheng Qian, should also learn from the Crown Prince. But the next moment, he froze in ce. Because his daughter Xiao Chuchu, in his arms, upon hearing the Crown Prince''s words, eximed and restlessly twisted in his embrace. [Reading one lesson one hundred and fifty times? Oh my, how much can one learn from that?] Xiao Chuchu widened her eyes. [Exam-oriented education is not good at all, we must ensure enough sleep.] Xiao Chuchu sympathetically pitied the Crown Prince in her heart. [Oh, now that you mention it,] Xiao Chuchu tried to prop up her little head in Emperor''s arms, [starting from Father Emperor, being forced by a group of schrs in the Study Room, waking up at three in the morning, Yin time, to study, and reading until seven in the evening, You time.] [Goodness! No wonder Father Emperor is well-read, with intelligence below ny, Father Emperor could have been even smarter, just slept too little, brain didn''t rest enough, development wasn''tplete!] Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded. What? There''s something like this? I could have been smarter? Has Xiao Yunzhou''s body been ruined by those conservative Confucian schrs? [Oh my, is my brother now following the same schedule as the emperor did when he was young? This won''t do, there needs to be a bnce of work and rest. The elementary students on my side still have three months of summer and winter vacation each year, ensuring eight hours of sleep and four hours of study.] Xiao Yunzhou was stunned into silence. The students'' schedule in the immortal realm was so rxed? He, who was once named the crown prince at a young age, only had six days off in a year! Only on the emperor''s birthday, New Year''s Day, Dragon Boat Festival, and his own birthday could he rest for a day or two. Apart from that, he would study from the early hours of the morning untilte at night. Compared to the immortal realm, this was a huge difference, right? What are summer and winter vacations? [In addition to rest, you also need to supplement with enough walnuts, eggs, and dairy products, ensuring a bnced diet to provide sufficient nutrition to the brain.] Xiao Chuchu muttered to herself, feeling worried that she might have to endure such a devilish study schedule when she grew up. She was not willing to! [That''s why ancient people had short lives, they really studied themselves to death.] Xiao Yunzhou gasped for air. Looking at his sons, especially the eldest prince who insisted on studying to death, his expression turned unpleasant. "Cheng Yuan, studying is not supposed to be done this way." The emperor now felt that what the little princess said must have some truth to it. After all, she was from the immortal realm and knew everything that would happen in the future! How could the methods of the immortal realm be wrong? "Cough, starting today, you will all go to the study room at the hour of the dragon." "You can''t study to death, you need to understand it. What''s the point of reading it a hundred and fifty times right from the start? It won''t work." Xiao Yunzhou looked at the eldest son with a serious look, then quickly shifted his gaze to the fifth prince, Cheng Qian. "From now on, you must sleep for a full four hours every day, understand?" The princes were greatly surprised. Only Cheng Qian lowered his head, holding back a twitch of his mouth. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand and immediately changed the study and rest schedule of the princes in the study room, and ordered the kitchen to prepare eggs and sheep milk. "From now on, each person will have two eggs and two bowls of sheep milk every day, without exception." Especially the third prince, Cheng Qing, and the fourth prince, Cheng Ming, who needed more attention for their intellectual development. "Cheng Qing, Cheng Ming, have an extra half bowl. These will be good for your brains." Third Prince and Fourth Prince: "???" They looked puzzled. What does this mean? In the eyes of their father, they were so stupid! They had to drink an extra half bowl of brain supplements? The eldest prince was even more anxious, "Father, Mother said the early bird catches the worm, how can we wake up sote to study?" The emperor raised his hand to stop him from arguing further. Faintly, his handsome face showed a hint of displeasure, "I am your father, would I harm you?" The more Xiao Yunzhou thought about it, the more ufortable he felt. ording to his daughter, his intelligence could have reached over ny. But it wasn''t nurtured properly. The teachers in the study room back then included Lord Tong and the retired empress''s father, Lord Tong. He didn''t me them now, both families were in trouble! Xiao Yunzhou shook his head, "Alright, sit for a while, eat the eggs and sheep milk before you leave." "I happen to want to read the articles you wrote." The Crown Prince restrained himself and did not retort. The Second Prince remained silent, bowing his head with the least presence. The Fourth Prince, on the other hand, was ecstatic, as his study time would be reduced in the future! Xiao Yunzhou observed their reactions one by one. The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, stood still but was remarkably outstanding. He neither questioned nor doubted, but instead nodded in agreement. When the goat milk arrived, he was the first to stand up, "Thank you, Father Emperor, for the reward." "Children who study, as it is said, sleep soundly at the hour of the tiger, with rosy cheeks and full of vitality. My son thanks Father Emperor for his consideration, and will henceforth obey Father Emperor''s orders to rise an hourter." Cheng Qian said, downing the goat milk in one go as if it were a great tonic. Xiao Yunzhou nodded approvingly. Compared to the doubts, blind obedience, or opposition of his other sons, Cheng Qian was not only straightforward but also had read books himself, which could support the fact that his Father Emperor was right. This once again showed that Cheng Qian, despite his young age, was wise. Xiao Yunzhou was very satisfied. Praising Cheng Qian in his heart, he lowered his head to look at the articles written by the princes on the table. The Crown Prince wrote an article on the importance of farming, which was appropriate. The Second, Third, and Fourth Princes'' articles were ordinary and unremarkable. Then came the Fifth Prince''s article on the gue. "Since ancient times, floods have led to refugees and many gues." "The urgent matter now is to study ways to deal with the gue." Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow as he read Cheng Qian''s words. He had sent Pan Ji, who was in charge of water management, and just a few days ago, there was news that they were preparing to divert the river and clear blockages. But the effectiveness of these measures was still unknown within the pce. Xiao Yunzhou had been feeling anxious these past few days. With the river issue unresolved, the refugees settled, and now they had to deal with the gue? Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but sigh, looking at Cheng Qian with a hint of admiration. He had read historical books and knew that Cheng Qian''s words made sense. Indeed, as the little princess had said, the Fifth Son was the most intelligent, but he was still too young! Sometimes, it wasn''t that he, as the emperor, was unwilling to prepare in advance. It was just that throughout history, there had been no effective way to deal with gues! Countless people had died from gues in history, so what could he, as an emperor, do to prepare Jing Country? Xiao Yunzhou chuckled bitterly. Just as he was about to praise Cheng Qian for a few words and put down the article, he heard his daughter exim. "My brother is amazing, I almost forgot about this major event!" "In a few days, news of the gue will reach the capital!" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. His daughter, Xiao Chuchu, was also anxious, "Oh no, I happened to draw the ''Remedy for gue''st time, and now I can use it. How should I tell Father Emperor and my brothers?" "Damn it, when will I be able to speak, sob sob sob~" Xiao Yunzhou: "..." He watched his daughter wriggling her little arms in his arms, looking distressed, her eyes shining, and his heart softened. Silly child, the words you speak, the Emperor can hear them all! Xiao Yunzhou perked up his ears and began to eavesdrop. "Bring someone here, reward the Fifth Prince for his good advice!" "Immediately summon the Royal Physician to research a cure for the epidemic!" Chapter 59 Chapter 59 After praising Cheng Qian, the fifth prince, the emperor summoned the imperial physician to see him. Before long, the ministers who were still in the Imperial Cab heard about this. "Is the emperor feeling unwell?" "Has he been angered by Minister Jiang?" "If the emperor is sick, should the examination for us court officials be postponed?" The ministers in the Imperial Cab pondered and started discussing. Soon, they saw four or five imperial physicians hurrying in with medicine boxes into the inner hall. At this moment, the expressions of the ministers became serious. If the emperor''s health waspromised, it would be a major issue concerning the country! Some bold court officials had already left the Imperial Cab''s front hall where they handled political affairs, to inquire with the eunuchs. "Why are so many imperial physicians entering the pce?" The young eunuch, after receiving some money, nced around. It wasn''t really a secret that needed to be kept, so he didn''t hide anything. "The emperor said that the imperial physician is researching a prescription." The ministers were shocked and speechless. The emperor was still researching longevity prescriptions? Not taking elixirs but wanting to take medicine instead? This was neglecting his duties! "Fucha, should we advise the emperor?" Chancellor Fu Cha was also conflicted, "Let''s wait a few days, the emperor is in a bad mood." Today, Jiang Yixu had made things difficult for them, a group of high-ranking officials. When the emperor was angry, he would test their abilities. Three dayster, he would have them examined in the great hall. The emperor''s intentions were clear, those who didn''t pass the exam,cked knowledge, and were not qualified to advise him as the emperor! Fu Cha thought to himself and looked at the group of high-ranking officials, "You all have duty shifts in the next few days, remember to review your books." The faces of several officials turned red and ck. They were all in their forties and fifties! Many of their grandchildren had already passed their exams, but at their age, they had to go back and review books like children? "We hold high positions, not to mention having the level of a top schr, but at least for this examination by the emperor, we must answer at the level of a new imperial schr." Fu Cha frowned, "Otherwise, when ites to the New Year''s examination, do you have the face to preside over it?" Several officials immediately felt distressed. Three dayster, when the emperor tested them, if they didn''t pass, they would lose face publicly at Zhengyang Gate! Like Jiang Yixu, they would never have the face to call themselves schrs in the future! "Chancellor is right. I will take my shift today and go home to study." "I will also go back, oh, I''ll ask my grandson for a set of the past ten years'' examinationptions." "Chancellor, may I take a three-day leave?" Fu Cha''s mouth twitched. A group of freeloaders! They don''t usually read books but now they have to take sudden leave to catch up! He sighed heavily, "Go on, all of you." Looking towards the direction of the emperor''s sleeping pce, Chancellor Fu Cha felt heavy-hearted. The emperor was bing less like his former self. It seemed like he was gradually slipping out of their control in the Imperial Cab. After this examination of the ministers, he must find a way to show the emperor who''s in charge. "Long Duo, you were once the top schr, you will surely pass the examination in three days." Chancellor Fu Cha thought to himself and said, "Write a memorial today, asking the emperor not to indulge in longevity medications and to focus on his duties with the Imperial Physicians." "After the examination results of the ministers are out in three days, and you are among the top, immediately submit the memorial with advice." Imperial Censor Long Duo promptly agreed. Chancellor Fu Cha nodded. The emperor was dissatisfied with the people who scolded him forcking skill, so he found a top schr to criticize the emperor instead. In this way, the emperor should have no objections, right? Shouldn''t he behave well now? * Emperor''s study. A group of princes witnessed Xiao Yunzhou''s face change from a tense expression to a joyful one. "Good, Cheng Qian, your article on the gue is excellent." "You have searched through ancient books to find ways to iste high temperatures and bury the dead quickly. I will immediately send a letter to the county magistrate in the Yellow River basin to take action!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou greatly appreciated it. Several princes looked at Fifth Prince Cheng Qian in astonishment, envy, or jealousy. Cheng Qian remained expressionless, still having that mature look of a young adult, "Father, your praise is undeserved. I only heard about the historical floods from the teachers in the study and was worried, so I went to look up some books." "But I didn''t find many methods to deal with the gue." As he spoke, he gratefully looked at the swaddle in the emperor''s arms during the pause in the emperor''s writing. It was his sister''s reminder that prompted him to start researching. That day, his sister mentioned that she had drawn three books, one of which was about the gue. But at that time, his sister was called away by the empress to work on winter clothes, only mentioning improvements in weaving and not the gue. Cheng Qian regretted it at the time andter thought about teasing his sister to speak up again, but the prince''s studies were heavy, and when he went to see his sister after dark, she was often asleep. He never found the opportunity to hear about the secret remedy for the gue from his sister. Cheng Qian thought it would be better to write an article to make the emperor take notice. It was better than doing nothing at all. Unexpectedly, Chu Chu happened to be awake that day and was brought over, and she was very alert. Shey in the emperor''s arms, sneakily reading the article on the gue. Her heart couldn''t stop beating. "In addition to the high-temperature disinfection of patient''s equipment and istion that my brother mentioned, there is also a method of timely burial of the dead." "Furthermore, there is a prescription for the Dispel gue Decoction: three grams of wormwood, five grams of gypsum, three grams of honeysuckle pollen, one gram of licorice... decocted in water." The emperor perked up, his eyes brightening. Fifth Prince Cheng Qian was also overjoyed. Even if there was a risk of him hearing his sister''s thoughts, he felt it was worth mentioning the gue to the emperor. If he could save one hundred thousand people from the suffering of the gue, what did it matter if he, a prince, was feared by his father? Cheng Qian lowered his head, extremely happy, and even the corners of his straight mouth couldn''t help but curve up. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou quickly memorized the prescription and looked up to see a faint smile on his fifth son''s lips, which left him stunned. The Fifth Prince had always been mature, keeping his emotions in check. He had always thought that this son was the most unfeeling. Who would have thought that now, a singlepliment from him, the emperor, would make this Fifth Prince unable to contain his smile. Xiao Yunzhou was shaken, realizing that his son ultimately yearned for his father''s praise and attention. For a moment, Xiao Yunzhou, who usually focused on his cultivation and had a distant rtionship with his family, felt a rare sense of fatherly affection. It had nothing to do with imperial power or wealth, but was simple and reminiscent ofmon households, where a child being praised by the father would show a little pride and joy. Truly heartwarming. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou had been given a divine remedy and also received the affection between father and son, making him overjoyed. "Your Majesty, the imperial physicians have arrived." Upon hearing the report from the young eunuch, Xiao Yunzhou nodded, immediately concealing his smile and instructing his sons to go study. "Today, reward the Fifth Prince with a bowl of green rice." "If the rest of you brothers, like Cheng Qian, work for the benefit of the people, with concerns for the safety of the nation, then I will reward you in the future as well." The Crown Prince and the Third Prince''s expressions changed. After the children left, the imperial physicians entered, and the Emperor got straight to the point. "After the water disaster, there will surely be an epidemic. I want you to immediately discuss ande up with an effective remedy for the epidemic." The imperial physicians widened their eyes upon hearing this. "Your Majesty, epidemics have never been child''s y since ancient times. At this moment, when the symptoms are still unknown, how can we research a remedy?" "How can we develop a remedy?" Xiao Yunzhou red at them. He was about to get angry but felt a weight on his arm. Lowering his head, he saw his precious daughter sleeping soundly in his arms, her little head resting peacefully on his right arm, looking extremely well-behaved and adorable. Xiao Yunzhou immediately suppressed his anger, lowering his voice, afraid of waking his dear daughter Chu Chu. The imperial physicians continued to protest, "Your Majesty, different trades have different skills. Developing a remedy for the epidemic is not as easy as you say." The Emperor of Jing Country had always been very gentle, and Xiao Yunzhou was a cultivator who emphasized self-cultivation and refrained from doing evil to seek longevity. Therefore, the imperial physicians were quite bold, knowing that the Emperor would not severely punish them, and they spared no effort to argue against Xiao Yunzhou. "In any case, this matter is difficult. There is still no effective remedy. I hope Your Majesty understands," the chief imperial physician said proudly. Xiao Yunzhou''s eye twitched. But he quickly looked down at the table, where he had written down the remedy for the epidemic based on his daughter''s recent words. He nced at his daughter''s sleeping face and shamelessly recited, "By consulting ancient texts, one can know that epidemics, since ancient times, are often caused by the excessive heat of the lungs and stomach." "We should use Jingjie to dispel pathogenic factors, then use gypsum and scuteria to clear the heat..." Xiao Yunzhou''s words were smooth and catchy. The chief imperial physician, who was standing with folded arms and a skeptical expression, listened and gradually changed his expression. As Emperor Xiao Yunzhou continued to recite, "You are unable, but I am considering the safety of the people, and I stayed up all night toe up with a remedy." "Three qian of Jingjie, five qian of fuling..." "This remedy, I name it Dispel gue Decoction." "What do you think, hmm?" In an instant, all the imperial physicians opened their mouths and looked up. They looked at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou as if they didn''t recognize him anymore! Wait a minute. Wait a minute... What did the Emperor say? He didn''t just talk nonsense, but came up with an urate remedy?! The imperial physicians were so shocked that they couldn''t speak. The Emperor, who managed the affairs of the country day in and day out, why... why was he also so precise in developing a remedy?! Chapter 60 Chapter 60 Dispel gue Decoction. The head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine blushed even more as he listened. "The Trichosanthes Root Powder can generate fluids and moisten dryness. Adding another three gram, what do you all think?" Xiao Yunzhou saw his daughter Chu Chu sleeping soundly in his arms, and he acted even more calmly. Looking at the imperial physicians, he continued to ask questions, "If you think this prescription of mine is incorrect, feel free to point it out and suggest changes." The head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine was the first to speak, but his lips trembled, unable to utter a single word. Change? How can it be changed? At first listen, this prescription had never been used in such a way before. The first few medicinal ingredients were fierce and aggressive, seeming like something a quack doctor would prescribe to harm people. Both dispelling and purging, with a heavy dosage. He had initially wanted to scoff at it, not taking the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou seriously, and dismiss it with a smile. But as he listened to theter medications, the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine found it increasingly difficult to refute, even finding himself intrigued and attentive. After purging and dispelling, there was tonifying the spleen and generating fluids. Bncing purging with tonification, maintaining the body''s bnce. Upon careful consideration, could this Dispel gue Decoction actually make sense? The head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine prided himself on his medical skills, and with careful thought, he could alsoe up with a prescription that was stable and effective. But as the Emperor revealed the precise proportions of each medicinal ingredient, the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine gradually fell silent, his eyes shining with a hint of shame. Choosing which medicine to use was not difficult upon reflection. But the precisebination of medicines, their roles, and urate proportions, that was not something that could be figured out in a day or two. One gram or three grams, when applied to a person, a slight error can lead to a thousand miles of deviation! "Your Majesty... Your servant... I''m afraid I need some time to consider whether this prescription needs adjustments," the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine said, his face turning red as he looked around. He saw the other imperial physicians already showing signs of astonishment and admiration towards Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. The head immediately said, "At first listen, Your Majesty''s Dispel gue Decoction is truly a good prescription. Adding a bit more would be harmful, and reducing a bit would weaken it." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s expression lit up upon hearing this. Truly, this was a good prescription known only to the fairy little princess! "I wonder, where did Your Majesty acquire such a reliable prescription?" After some consideration, the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine couldn''t help but curiously ask. Previously, the Emperor had mentioned finding it in a book, but the imperial physicians didn''t quite believe it. Are you kidding? Anyone coulde up with this prescription? The head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine thought about it, and decided to skip over the Emperor''s previous words, giving him a way out, and said thoughtfully, "For such a prescription, it must have been devised by an experienced practitioner. If Your Majesty were to bring this person into the Imperial Academy of Medicine, they would surely be able to fulfill their ambitions." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s face had a strange expression upon hearing this. Indeed, even if the little princess was a fairy reincarnated, she was now just a speechless baby. She didn''t even know how to walk, so how could she enter the Imperial Academy of Medicine and work with this group of white-haired imperial physicians? These people couldn''t hear the little princess''s thoughts, and were not fortunate enough to experience the fairy''s prophecies and abilities. He didn''t want to reveal the secret that his beloved daughter was a reincarnated fairy in front of these people. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou smiled mysteriously and had the young eunuchs seat these imperial physicians. Raising his hand, he said, "I have a lot of state affairs to handle, how can I have the leisure to visit the Imperial Academy of Medicine every day?" The group at the Imperial Academy of Medicine all opened their mouths in surprise. What? Did the Emperor reallye up with this prescription?! Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "Medical matters belong to you. Do not rely too much on me." His words were not false, as an emperor, he couldn''t hold the little princess every day and act as a messenger for these Imperial Academy of Medicine doctors! Should he neglect all other political affairs? Xiao Yunzhou thought and handed the written prescription on the desk to be delivered to the Head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine. "In the future, you must improve your medical skills and not ck off." "Do not rely too much on me, rely on the Fairy for miraculous prescriptions." The group at the Imperial Academy of Medicine all opened and closed their mouths. They quickly knelt down, looking ashamed. No matter where this prescription came from, they were clearly not as good as the one who wrote it! Xiao Yunzhou also reminded them. Continuing to recount the words of the little princess just now, "I am not joking with you today." "Throughout history, after floods, there have often been epidemics." "Recently, the Fifth Prince submitted an article on epidemics, mentioning the symptoms of epidemics written in ancient texts after floods." "Mostly headaches, dizziness, chest tightness, and coughing up yellow phlegm..." "These are things that should have been brought to my attention by the Imperial Academy of Medicine." The entire Imperial Academy of Medicine hung their heads in shame. If they paid more attention to the livelihood of the people, they would not be so unprepared today. Even if they couldn''te up with a reliable prescription, they could havee up with one or two temporary solutions. After scolding them, Xiao Yunzhou gave them an order, "I will provide you with a good prescription now to make amends." "I will mobilize a hundred assistants from the capital''s pharmacy and doctors to help you go to the gathering ce of refugees." The Head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine immediately took themand. * "Mother, Father has asked us to go to the studyter." "We have to drink a bowl of sheep''s milk before bed." That night, each prince returned to their mother with a bowl of sheep''s milk, talking about the Emperor''s new arrangements. The Eldest Prince was clearly a bit worried, "Father praised the Fifth Prince''s article on epidemics today, and when we return, he will summon the Imperial Academy of Medicine." "It seems like Father now favors the Fifth Prince more." The Empress''s face turned serious, why did the Emperor make so many moves today? Her son''s worry was justified. All signs were showing that the Emperor favored the Fifth Prince more than her Eldest Prince! The Fifth Prince''s attention to epidemics was right. Could it be that her Eldest Prince''s focus on agriculture was not worthy of reward? The Emperor had even gone to the fields with the ministers in the morning, only to ignore the Eldest Prince''s agricultural article. The Emperor was clearly biased! "Cheng Yuan, this is not your fault," the Empressforted her son, afraid that in his panic, he would lose his princely demeanor. "Your father is probably still angry at the Tong Family, so he vented his anger on you." The Empress had already heard about the incident of the Zhou Family insulting the Minister of Justice''s daughter that day, and she was furious too. Seeing a minister about to defect to the Eldest Prince, only to be thwarted by the Zhou Family! The Eldest Prince, Cheng Yuan, was shocked to learn of this from his mother, he couldn''t believe the audacity of the Zhou Family. "Mother, did our maternal grandfather really raise such despicable descendants? They have no regard for thew! How did our maternal grandfather choose his students?!" The Empress''s breath caught, "Cheng Yuan, there are at least a hundred students who have studied under your maternal grandfather." "At your maternal grandfather''s academy, there are even thousands of schrs." "Where there are people, there are bound to be bad ones. Your maternal grandfather has also educated many good students," the Empress hurriedly spoke up for her father. The Eldest Prince was still a bit upset, "The Emperor must be displeased. The time for the princes to study was a suggestion from our maternal grandfather to the Emperor Grandfather." "The Emperor did not punish our maternal grandfather today, but rejected the schedule he set for the princes to study as a warning?" Thinking about it, the Eldest Prince stood up, "No, I must go persuade the Emperor." "Even if our maternal grandfather was wrong, each matter should be dealt with separately. What''s wrong with us studying more?" What a stubborn son! The Empress anxiously held him back, "Don''t go, I will have someone from the Hanlin Academy deliver a message to the Chancellors to petition against the Emperor''s arrangement for the princes'' study and rest." The Eldest Prince finally breathed a sigh of relief. Meanwhile,te at night, the mothers of the Third Prince and Fourth Prince also couldn''t sleep. "What does this mean? Does the Emperor think you''re stupid? So he wants you to drink an extra bowl of milk?" They were all unable to sleep. "How did the Emperor find out that you''re dumber than the others!?" Third Prince, Fourth Prince: "..." Who''s dumb, who''s dumb!? What do you mean by how did the Emperor find out!? ... "Achoo¡ª" ¡¾Could someone be talking about me?¡¿ Xiao Chu Chu woke up and sneezed. She quickly realized she was in the Emperor Father''s arms. And the Emperor Father was striding towards the Donghua Pce where Concubine Liu was. ¡¾Huh? The Emperor Father seems a bit angry?¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou paused. His stern expression softened for a moment, but quickly turned back to look at his daughter with annoyance. Yes, he was a bit angry. After writing a prescription for the Imperial Academy of Medicine, he came to his senses a bit. Xiao Yunzhou strode into Concubine Liu''s still-lit bedroom, his gaze serious. "Concubine Liu, how did youe up with the idea to improve the weaving process?" Is Concubine Liu''s method of improvement the same as the gue remedy he received? Both came from the thoughts of the little princess!? Xiao Yunzhou had Zhang Jia take the little princess away, then walked up to Concubine Liu, solemnly questioning her. "You exin to Us, you have been in the pce for a long time, how do you know about improving the silk reeling machine?" Chapter 61 Chapter 61 The emperor entered Concubine Liu''s bedroom, it was alreadyte at night. On this day, he had too many things to attend to, busy thinking about elevating the wisdom level of his sons, busy thinking about recing ipetent ministers, and giving them topics for the exam five dayster. He also needed topile the thoughts of the Little Princess on preventing and curing the epidemic into a booklet to be handed over to the Imperial Hospital. After finishing all these tasks, it was already moonrise. But when Xiao Yunzhou came over, he found that Concubine Liu had not yet put out the light, obviously waiting for him to bring the Little Princess back before sleeping. And his first action was to have Zhang Jia take the Little Princess away. Because what he was about to say next, he didn''t want the Little Princess, who was believed to be the reincarnation of a fairy, to hear. Her father, and her mother Concubine Liu, could hear her thoughts... If the Little Princess found out, she might be more reserved in the future, no longer acting on her thoughts so freely. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou thought to himself, as soon as he entered the bedroom, he went straight to Concubine Liu and got straight to the point. "Concubine Liu, don''t try to deceive Us, be honest, the idea of the spinning wheel was not your own, was it?" But then, he was taken aback by the expression of anger that appeared on his face because of being kept in the dark. Because when he walked behind the screen in the room, he saw a table full of drawing papers¡ª On the paper, there were dissected drawings of different angles of the loom, as well as theponents that make it up. Some were marked with a big X, and some were crumpled up and thrown on the table. And on the table, there were at least five or six open books on silkworm breeding and weaving. Many of the texts in the books were circled, highlighted, and even had notes written down. Concubine Liu was looking troubled, holding a pen in her hand, drawing a new loom, but crossing it out halfway through. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s usations and suspicions had dissipated by half. "Your Majesty." Concubine Liu finally noticed him, hurriedly stood up, and gave him a bow. But there was still a lingering look of worry between her eyebrows. "What are you doing?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, almost forgot his previous questioning, looked at the dozen or so sketches in Concubine Liu''s hands. Concubine Liu was still somewhat distracted, sighed, "I am thinking, after improving the spinning wheel, whether the weaving process can also be improved again to speed up the weaving process." "But after thinking for a few days, discussing with a few craftsmen from the Ministry of Works, and trying a few methods, we only managed to make half of the loom." "The new machine we made still keeps making mistakes. I am reading books, and then organizing the daytime female workers'' experiences, thinking about how to improve." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou looked down and saw Concubine Liu frowning, deep in thought. Looking at the sketches on the table, they were indeed step-by-step drawings of the loom''s changes. Each one wasbeled with when it was drawn, when it was abandoned, and why it went wrong. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was greatly shocked, Concubine Liu was actually studying weaving techniques! She wasn''t just relying on some random method picked up from the Little Princess''s thoughts? "Your Majesty, what did you just say to me when you came in?" Concubine Liu blinked, "I was just thinking about whether the loom''s pir could be made smaller, I didn''t hear your question." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was speechless. The question he had just asked, he couldn''t bring himself to ask now. Compared to herself, Concubine Liu worked very hard toe up with the gue form while sitting down! Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat, "It''s nothing, I just find it strange how you suddenly have so many thoughts about weaving." "I was moved by Lady Min''s spirit and thought that women can also do something," Concubine Liu lowered her head. Xiao Yunzhou blushed for a moment. So that''s it, he was overthinking. "Concubine Liu, please sit down, no need to stand," Xiao Yunzhou said. Concubine Liu nodded, but her heart was still in turmoil. The Emperor indeed still doubted her. It was normal, the Emperor was not stupid to begin with, otherwise he would not have been favored by thete Emperor and made Crown Prince early on. Concubine Liu secretly sighed in relief, thankfully she had been thinking about improving silk weaving these past few days. Her daughter had guided her, telling her the improved silk weaving method of the fairy. But after using it, Concubine Liu found that this fairy method was notpletely beyond mortal thinking, but rather relied on the skills of carpenters and woodworkers, achievable skills rather than unattainable. So Concubine Liu knew that with her daughter''s doubled intelligence, she could not waste her daughter''s help and should take advantage of her doubled intelligence to think carefully. She didn''t expect that today, she would be caught red-handed by the suspicious Xiao Yunzhou! Concubine Liu secretly marveled, indeed one must strive to improve. Even with the help of fairies, one cannot just lie back and rely on their daughter. "Qiu Li, serve tea to the Emperor," Concubine Liu instructed. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, indicating no need, "I''ll just sit for a while and leave." But as soon as he sat down opposite Concubine Liu, he saw a bowl of half-drunk sheep''s milk by her side. Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow, "Are you drinking this too? I had the princes drink it today, did you mishear Qian''s words?" Concubine Liu nodded, her expression serious this time, "When I was improving the weaving, I felt that I was still not smart enough." This was not a lie. Drinking cow''s milk, eating eggs can nourish the brain, make one smarter, what the little princess said must be correct. Concubine Liu only regretted not being smarter, otherwise she could quickly improve her skills and make more winter clothes to give to the refugees. "Even if drinking this sheep''s milk can only make me half as smart, I can do half as much more, which is also good," Concubine Liu sincerely said. Xiao Yunzhou was deeply moved by her words. Especially today, several princes were not too willing to drink it. Some of them were not even as intelligent as Concubine Liu! "You''ve worked hard, Concubine Liu. With your determination to improve, having a woman like you in the pce is a blessing for the people." "My food and clothing are provided by the people, this is what I should do," Concubine Liu earnestly retorted. If she did a little more, when her son ascended to the throne, he would not be a tyrant. Xiao Yunzhou did not know her inner thoughts, but praised her greatly upon hearing her words, then got up, "Good, you are a woman with vision." "From now on, the sheep''s milk for Concubine Liu will be provided by me." "By the way, from tomorrow onwards, when the little princess wakes up, bring her to me." Xiao Yunzhou said, looking at Concubine Liu with sympathy. "Poor thing, Concubine Liu can''t hear the little princess''s thoughts, she can only mess around on her own." Maybe he couldn''te up with a good idea. Only his father, the emperor, could figure out a way to coax Little Princess into revealing one or two secret recipes for improvement and let Concubine Liu know. Xiao Yunzhou thought and stood up with his hands behind his back, "It''ste, you should rest early. I will help you, you don''t need to worry too much." Concubine Liu: "..." She was at a loss for words, not knowing what to say. Oh well, as long as the emperor is happy. * Five dayster, the officials were outside the Zhengyang Gate receiving the emperor''s assessment questions. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, holding Little Princess, was inspecting the scene. Sure enough, as Little Princess had said, any minister who wrote slowly and looked embarrassed had an intelligence level of less than 50. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou frowned, looking at thest ten people, he wanted to tell them to put down their pens and go home directly! "Wow, Emperor Dad, our Jing Country''s national strength has increased by 0.1pared to three days ago~" "Because you mentioned the exam, many ministers have been working hard these days and dare not bezy." Xiao Chuchu looked at the system data and smiled. "Indeed, employee assessments are necessary." Employee? Does that mean the ministers? Emperor Xiao Yunzhou listened and began to think. "In modern intepanies, most have a system of eliminating the bottom performers. Poor performing employees are eliminated by about ten percent every year." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou widened his eyes. That''s simr to Jing Country''s system of Jing Examination. But the Jing Examination only happens once every six years. Unexpectedly, the immortal realm is much harsher than their Jing Country! Eliminating so many ''employees'' every year? But with such strictness, there are fewer non-improving people. Truly worthy of being the immortal realm! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. Their Jing Country is currently in a mess, they should learn from the immortal realm''s system! No, Jing Country''s national strength is definitely much lower than the immortal realm, they should be even stricter! Xiao Yunzhou thought, and then became serious in an instant, confidently standing in front of the hall and speaking, "From today onwards, I will assess all of you every month!" He will make sure to keep the minds of the important ministers in the capital sharp! The immortal realm has an annual assessment, while the officials in Jing Country will be assessed every month! "After the monthly assessment, I will eliminate the lowest-ranking officials on the spot - demoting them or stripping them of their official positions." The officials below looked constipated. What? Every month? If they don''t do well, they might be dismissed immediately? When they were not officials, the imperial examination took ce every three years. Now that they are officials, they have to undergo monthly exams? Is there any justice in this! Whether it was the Prime Minister of the Imperial Cab, Fucha, or the old man from the Liu family who was at the back, they all looked shocked. Chapter 62 Chapter 62 In the main hall of the Zhengyang Gate, hundreds of tables wereid out, where important civil officials usually sat for morning court assemblies and now took exams. "This assessment will take up half of your rest day today," said Emperor Xiao Yunzhou with a raised hand. The officials'' faces turned dark. Every five days, they had one rest day to go farming. Now, once a month, they had to use a rest day to take exams? Good heavens. Was the Emperor even human? Xiao Yunzhou acted as if he hadn''t noticed, "Do schrs have rest days? Domoners who till thend and weave cloth have rest days?" "I and the officials are supported by themoners, so we should be even more diligent." In total, the ministers of Jing Country had nearly a hundred days of vacation. In addition to the designated rest days, many ministers also had leave to visit rtives. When officials rode carriages to visit rtives, they couldn''t take the military roads, so a round trip sometimes took two or three months, even half a year. Their vacations were truly exceptional. Now that Xiao Yunzhou was taking away their rest days, he did not feel the slightest regret. "Alright, start answering now." "Don''t me me for not reminding you - the papers will be collected at noon, and any unfinished portions will be considered failures." The officials fell silent and immediately started writing furiously. Of course, some ministers'' faces stiffened, especially upon hearing Xiao Yunzhou say that officials rankingst would be dismissed. They looked at each other and started protesting. "Your Majesty, we became officials, not schrs." "Is the imperial court turning into an academy? Dismissing the lowest-ranking officials based solely on their knowledge of the Four Books and Five ssics is ridiculous." "Exactly, you won''t find such a thing even if you search all historical records!" "Being an official is not about reciting books, Your Majesty!" "What reasoning is there to examine our knowledge of ssic texts every month!" Several ministers protested loudly, and Xiao Yunzhou frowned upon seeing this. [Tsk tsk, they haven''t even finished reading the exam questions, and they want to call it off?] [Let me see, ah yes, the ones jumping the highest are indeed those whose intelligence doesn''t surpass the average eunuch.] [Oh my, just like the semi-literate Minister Jiang!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but tease, closing her adorable eyes. She couldn''t even bear to look! Hearing his daughter''s words, Xiao Yunzhou felt both angry and amused. But just as he was about to speak, a guard rushed in from outside to report. "Your Majesty, hundreds of schrs have gathered outside the pce!" "They''re shouting outside, saying that Your Majesty is dismissing Minister Jiang Yixu because you cannot tolerate dissent and have a narrow mind!" Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. "Insolent!" The guard was about to kneel and apologize. But then the schrs'' resounding cries from outside reached the Zhengyang Gate hall. "Minister Jiang took the imperial examination seventeen years ago and has served the people tirelessly for seventeen years as an official!" "It''s only natural that at his advanced age, he has bex in the Four Books and Five ssics and forgotten some of their contents." "Your Majesty is using this as an excuse to examine all officials on the ssic texts, but schrly talent and governing ability are vastly different - this is unfair!" "We have jointly written a petition in blood, asking Your Majesty to release Minister Jiang Yixu and restore his original position!" "And to immediately cancel the examination of officials on the Four Books and Five ssics!" These loud cries came from at least a few hundred grown schrs, an imposing force like waves crashing one after another against the hall! Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s arm around Chuchu stiffened. They had rebelled! These schrs were trying to revolt! "Your Majesty--" The ministers who had been frowning over the exam papers all knelt down together. A hint of satisfaction shed across their faces. "Your Majesty, this minister also requests that you retract your decree and pacify the schrs first." "The schrs are the pirs of Jing Country''s future!" Xiao Yunzhou''s hands trembled with anger. He had long known that the schrs of the realm formed their own factions, considering themselves lofty and unafraid of imperial authority. What''s more, they had powerful backers, misleading naive young schrs into thinking they could be legends and be praised by the people just by joining the protests and submitting petitions. But in reality, behind several academies lurked the shadows of the Empress'' Tong Family and even the Fu Cha Family of the Noble Consort. Apart from them, there were also officials from the Zhe Party, Eastern Party, and Xiang Party, promoting schrs from their own regions. The young schrs thought they had found patrons, but were actually being used as pawns by the officials without realizing it! Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked at the kneeling officials echoing the schrs'' cries. The voices outside swelled like waves, one louder than the next! "Your Majesty, please release Minister Jiang Yixu immediately!" "Your Majesty, do you have any evidence proving that Minister Jiang cheated in the imperial examination seventeen years ago?" "Minister Jiang has dedicated his life to the people and the imperial court. Just because he can''t recite books as well as in his youth at nearly fifty years old, he should be imprisoned and dismissed?!" The incensed schrs grew increasingly riotous. The Grand Councilor of the Fu Cha Family changed expression. "Your Majesty, we cannot let them continue shouting." "There are five major academies near the capital. If this continues and more schrs gather, they may be so agitated that any slightmotion could lead to disaster." Lord Liu was about to speak, thinking the situation had taken a grave turn, when another minister cut him off. "Your Majesty, the schrs'' anger is not without reason. If Minister Jiang is imprisoned today, it''s possible that other schrs may suffer the same fate seventeen years from now." A minister with an IQ of 45 stood up indignantly. "If Your Majesty severely punishes Minister Jiang, all the schrs in the realm will be disheartened by you!" Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, his chest heaving. These people, unaware that he knew their intelligence levels, still dared to try deceiving him! With a solemn expression, he gestured to the reporting guard, "Go, arrest the few ringleaders among the schrs--" The minister with an IQ of 45 immediately knelt down: "Your Majesty, you absolutely cannot imprison the ringleaders! Otherwise, the schrs will riot!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face darkened, but he soon let out a chuckle. "I was going to say, invite those few ringleaders inside to personally monitor your exams." The minister with an IQ of 45 was taken aback. Xiao Yunzhou smiled lightly, "And don''t let the other schrs leave either." The guards and ministers were all stunned. What? They were about to storm in. And the Emperor was telling them not to leave? Didn''t he mean to drive them away? The Emperor smiled faintly, "Also, bring Jiang Yixu here from prison to take the exam together with the officials. When it''s done, post all of your papers outside the Zhengyang Gate for me!" Everyone was stunned. The Emperor was still insisting on examining the officials. But even if the results showed their current abilities werecking, how could that prove they had cheated in the imperial examinations over a decade ago? However, the ministers who had protested the loudest soon started flipping through the exam papers reluctantly, only to freeze in shock. Their faces quickly turned pale, huge beads of sweat streaming down! Xiao Yunzhou observed their expressions clearly and let out a light chuckle. ... At noon. Bang-- Bang-- "Time''s up, ministers seal your papers!" Wei Zheng shouted loudly. Dull thumps echoed through the hall as five or six ministers, gritting their teeth with ashen faces, pale lips, and closed eyes, fainted! "Wei Zheng, prepare the carriage!" Xiao Yunzhou looked mockingly at those who had fainted, the ones who had most vehemently sided with the students earlier. "Today, outside the Zhengyang Gate, I shall allow the students to witness the capabilities of such an upright minister!" Before long, the students protesting outside the Zhengyang Gate saw the guards emerge and post answer sheets at the entrance. The students were still protesting, "Your Majesty, even after serving as an official for ten years, one mustpose ornate literary works? What use is such armchair strategizing?" But as they protested, the voices in the front row fell silent. For when they looked up at the graded paper at the forefront, they were dumbfounded. "Heavens, which high official is this... how could they even misspell the word ''appease''?" "Ah, so the exam was not just about the Four Books and Five ssics?" "Help, who wrote this? Disaster reports from the regions can be submitted to the capital within six months? Goodness, in six months, everyone would have perished!" "Who wrote this?" The protesting schrs, upon seeing the absurd exam papers, were stunned. Then, their gaze shifted upwards, and they soon saw the sevenrge characters at the top of the answer sheet. The schrs who had handed in their answers felt like vomiting blood as they almost fainted! For in in ck and white, it was clearly written: Answer by: Jiang Yixu, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel! Chapter 63 Chapter 63 Outside Zhengyang Gate, students were bustling and noisy. Soon, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, holding the princess in his arms, arrived at the pce gate in a carriage. The guards formed two rows, quickly surrounding the Emperor in the center. Keeping the students at a distance from the Emperor. "Back off, all of you back off!" "The Emperor is here, do not approach any further!" The imperial guards were on high alert, fearing that the students might rush forward and startle the royal carriage. However, none of the students actually approached. The students in the first three rows, with decent eyesight, were all stunned as they looked at the first exam paper posted on Zhengyang Gate. Even with the Emperor himself at the gate, they were too preupied to notice. Because the answers on this exam paper were shockingly terrible! Terrible to the point that they couldn''t believe their eyes, thinking they were mistaken! ¡ªVice Minister of Personnel, Jiang Yixu. Having achieved top scores in the imperial examinations in his youth, Jiang Yixu stood out among the sea of students, entering directly into the Censorate and working his way up from an Imperial Censor. He eventually reached the position of Vice Minister of Personnel in the Ministry of Personnel. Such a person not only excelled in academics in his youth but should also have had an exceptional understanding of the rules of officialdom! Without knowledge of court regtions and administrative practices, one would not be able to supervise the officials! Let alone manage the promotion and demotion of officials in the Ministry of Personnel! However, this so-called clean official Jiang Yixu, in his ten-answer exam paper¡ª the first two questions on the Four Books and Five ssics were nonsensical, with no coherent structure. This couldn''t be attributed to forgetfulness due to old age orck of reviewing. However, for the remaining eight questions, rted to the rules for Ministry of Personnel officials and handling of public affairs, Jiang Yixu''s answers were equally astonishing! "How should the misuse of official seals be calcted?" Jiang Yixu left the answer nk and added three ink dots. "If an official fails to promptly request a recement when the official seal''s imprint is unclear, what punishment should be given?" This was a multiple-choice question. "First, demotion; second, deduction of sry for six months; third, deduction of sry for twelve months." Regardless of the three options, Jiang Yixu received a big red cross for each! He even got it wrong... A colossal mistake! Protesting students numbered in the hundreds. Those in the front row fell silent at this moment. Some with fiery tempers finally realized they had beenpletely fooled, "Damn it! What a fool!" The surrounding students blushed and hung their heads in shame upon hearing this curse. They had always believed they were supporting a good official who spoke up for the people! A person of integrity, talent, and learning who would leave a good name in history! But they were wrong, all wrong! They thought by supporting Jiang Yixu, they would also earn a good reputation and do something for the people. But¡ª Damn it, all wrong! Jiang Yixu is truly aplete fool! The students in front of Zhengyang Gate were now lost and bewildered, each feeling as though they were struck by lightning, realizing for the first time that they were standing in a swamp. Were all their past beliefs wrong? Supporting Jiang Yixu, criticizing the Emperor, this act was utterly absurd, like ignorant children crying and making a scene? The students trembled one after another. Xiao Yunzhou, holding Chu Chu, watched the students change their expressions one after another with great satisfaction. They had cursed him fiercely just moments ago, but now they were all facing the consequences! Haha. "Reading the books of sages is to help you understand reasoning, do not let anger cloud your judgment easily, and do not blindly follow others." Xiao Yunzhou sat in the sedan chair and immediately spoke firmly. "I do not fear advice, but what I want to hear is advice that is meaningful!" "Those who fish in troubled waters will all be severely punished!" The students were moved, then looked back at the exam papers posted on the Zhengyang Gate. "So that''s it! The Emperor is testing the officials on their abilities!" "It was the students who wrongly med the Emperor!" The students blushed, and boldly admitted their mistake in public. Xiao Yunzhou nodded in satisfaction, feeling quite pleased. Thanks to his precious daughter~ Otherwise, he, as an emperor, would not dare to scold people casually. Now, things were different, and his reputation was established! Haha! He looked down at his precious daughter in his arms, afraid that she would be frightened by the students'' uprising, but he saw the little Chu Chu blushing, her eyes shining. She was still excited, turning her head to look at the Zhengyang Gate one moment, and then showing interest in the schrs the next. [Wow, my Emperor father really hit the nail on the head with this move~] [The assessment is not just about academic abilities, but also about the performance in office on a daily basis.] [Officials who usually mess around are now exposed!] Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile. Listening to his daughter''s praise, he felt very content. He was not stupid, of course. He didn''t want a top schr in the imperial examination, but rather someone who could get things done! "What''s wrong? Brother Yuan, why is everyone silent now?" "You''re all quiet when the Emperor is here, afraid to make suggestions?" The students standing in the back did not carefully read the exam papers posted, looking bewildered. But soon, the schrs in the front row turned red and collectively turned back, saying, "Please stop." "Quiet¡ªshut up." Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, not at all angry, and raised his hand to have the selected exam papers distributed to the back. The officials of the Ministry of Personnel examined the Ministry of Personnel''s regtions. The officials of the Ministry of Works examined knowledge rted to craftsmen andbor... The entire Zhengyang Gate was soon shocked, gasping, and silent. The people they supported were not worthy! They were rubbish! "In the past, the court appointed ministers, some of whom were not talented. From this day on, I will gradually eliminate them and cleanse the entire court!" Xiao Yunzhou spoke loudly. "I will hold an Imperial Examination after the New Year. I hope that talented individuals from all over the world wille and give it a try." "I am willing to work with truly talented and virtuous individuals to create a prosperous era!" Xiao Yunzhou''s words were resolute, and all one hundred students in front of the Zhengyang Gate blushed, then quickly their eyes turned red. "Students are ashamed!" "Students are willing to serve the Emperor and the Jing Country!" The students were moved. This was their first time having a conversation with the Emperor! It was also the first time they saw that the clear stream admonishers they once supported were such incapable individuals! They first felt that the Emperor of the Jing Country was not as foolish as they had thought, and did not ignore state affairs! [Awooo, I see several with an intelligence of over 80. God, the one in the second row on the left, wearing brown clothes and patched, has an intelligence of 91!] Xiao Chu Chu also excitedly blushed. She did not understand how to govern a country. But having more outstanding individuals enter the court was a good thing. She understood this simple truth. [This person cannot be missed.] Xiao Chu Chu fidgeted anxiously in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms. Xiao Yunzhou listened attentively, his eyes lighting up as he looked at the person mentioned by the youngdy, and he was surprised at what he saw. In the third row, second from the left, was a student with an IQ of 91, with a dark birthmark on the left side of his forehead. Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. Normally, officials appointed by the Ministry of Personnel would not choose someone with such a blemish on their appearance. After all, officials represent the court. Some high-ranking officials would have to negotiate with neighboring countries in the future. But Xiao Yunzhou hesitated for a moment, then nodded casually at the student with the birthmark. "Next year, we''ll be waiting for you." Looks cannot save a country in times of crisis! At critical moments, talent is what matters. Xiao Yunzhou held Chu Chu in his arms and smiled warmly at the student with the birthmark. Zheng Qiru, a poor student in the third row, saw the Emperor looking at him and instinctively pursed his lips, closing his eyes in pain. He knew he was ugly, and even though he excelled in literature, he would be rejected in the pce exam because of his appearance. But he still wanted to give it a try. What if during the pce exam, the Emperor didn''t match his face to his name, and chose him by mistake? He wanted to do something for the people! At this moment, when Zheng Qiru saw the Emperor''s gaze shift towards him, he looked pained. Today, he did not agree with the schrsing together to submit a petition, believing that schrs should not blindly interfere in court affairs without understanding the situation. But unexpectedly, when he followed along to advise, he encountered the Emperoring out of Zhengyang Gate in person. Seeing the Emperor''s reaction to his ugly appearance was even worse than he had imagined! Zheng Qiru was in great pain at that moment. He didn''t have the courage to see the Emperor''s displeasure and disgust at his ugly face. But soon, his arm was pushed. "Hey, old Zheng, it seems like the Emperor is smiling at you." ??? How is that possible? Zheng Qiru smiled bitterly. Don''t joke around. The Emperor smiling at him? Unless the Emperor had an eye disease! Chapter 64 Chapter 64 Outside Zhengyang Gate, the students were unusually quiet at this moment. Everyone looked excitedly at the emperor, listening to him talk about the uing special imperial examination. The regr pce exam was held once every three years, but with this special examination, it meant that these schrs had another chance to win the title of Jinshi! "I am holding this special examination because the court needs talented individuals," Emperor Xiao Yunzhou said. "I am clearing away the filth, waiting for virtuous officials!" Zheng Qiru lowered his head and clenched his fists. He had already made up his mind. If the emperor disliked his appearance and did not select him in the pce exam, he would be a teacher. Teaching some children from poor families to read, allowing them to be the good officials that he, Zheng Qiru, wanted to be but could not. "Old Zheng! Why aren''t you listening to me?" "Quick, the emperor seems to be nodding at you again." "???" Zheng Qiru looked helplessly at hispanions. Wasn''t one deception enough for them? Zheng Qiru looked displeased at hispanions. "Don''t make up stories about the emperor¡ª" He did not dare to have any expectations. Because the more expectations he had, the more disappointed he would be. The birthmark on his face made even his own mother unwilling to look at him for long, and the neighbors avoided him on the streets. Who was the emperor? Would he look at this ugly freak with different eyes? Dressed in patched old clothes, slightly thin, a bit short, and with a prominent w on his face. "Hey, why don''t you take a look in front of you!" Zheng Qiru''s friend was about to jump up and pinched him hard. Only then did Zheng Qiru reluctantly turn his head in pain. As soon as he turned, he froze. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was holding his daughter, high up, truly¡ªsmiling at him! His eyes were gentle! "Go back and study hard." "I''ll be waiting for your names on the gold list." The emperor spoke to the students, but his smiling eyes seemed to pass through everyone andnd on him! In the emperor''s eyes, there was no disdain, no disgust, no dislike... Only anticipation! Zheng Qiru opened his mouth, but no sound came out. His chest seemed to be engulfed by a gushing heat! ¡¾Ding, an exceptionally intelligent talent, loyalty to Jing Country has risen to outstanding.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu heard the system''s prompt and smiled brightly. "Farewell, Your Majesty!" "We students will serve wholeheartedly!" "We are willing to serve the court, and we will return to study hard today!" The students also woke up from their dreamlike state. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou nodded in satisfaction, remembered the faces of the students his daughter liked, and returned to the pce. Until his sedan chair left, the students remained kneeling on the ground. Many of them even had tears in their eyes. "We misunderstood the emperor today, blindly causing trouble, but the emperor did not me us." "I just saw Minister Jiang''s nonsensical article and thought that we, the few students leading the trouble, would be arrested by the guards." "Ah, the emperor truly loves talent and is generous!" Xiao Yunzhou listened happily to the students'' praises, then immediately announced in the pce, dismissed thest ten officials in today''s assessment. He then promoted ten officials with good assessments. After finishing the matter, Xiao Yunzhou casually flipped through a stack of documents and then nced at Liu Family''s patriarch and Chancellor Fu Cha. "Liu Wenchang, you and Chancellor Fu Cha will oversee this special examination." Xiao Yunzhou spoke with emotion, looking at the officials. "Liu Wenchang, you have only been in the Ministry of Personnel for less than five days, yet you are already familiar with the regtions. If all of you are as dedicated to your duties as he is, I wouldn''t have to spend time inspecting you all." The officials fell silent. The head of the Liu Family blushed a bit, "Oh, stop it." After the Emperor''s question about ''How should Pan Zhishui be handled'' was answered by his granddaughter, he realized that the Emperor liked officials who were diligent in their positions. Xiao Yunzhou was a practical Emperor! He enjoyed cultivating himself, so he didn''t have time to chat with the officials, he was straightforward, hoping that all officials could do their duties well. Therefore, the head of the Liu Family had been studying the affairs of the Ministry of Personnel diligently at home these days. Unexpectedly, after staying up for four nights and memorizing everything, he passed the test and was praised by the Emperor! [Ah, my grandfather is the second highest official in the Ministry of Personnel.] [Grandfather has only been transferred for less than four days, look at those dark circles under his eyes, he''s really studying hard.] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but look over sympathetically at her grandfather who was still working hard at his age, she really admired him. [Whatever position my grandfather is transferred to, he will do his best to fulfill his duties.] [Is it to not disappoint the Emperor? If all officials were so diligent, our Jing Country would be saved.] Xiao Yunzhou was moved by this. "Dismissed, everyone." Turning around, he quietly instructed Wei Zheng to reward the old Liu Family and Concubine Liu with a lunch together, a family reunion. "Your Majesty, you forgot, Concubine Liu left the pce early this morning to make winter clothes." Wei Zheng smiled. The Emperor was taken aback. "Yesterday, Concubine Liu made five hundred winter clothes and sent them to the refugees. Today, without stopping, she has started making the second batch." Wei Zheng promptly reported Concubine Liu''s progress to Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou was even more touched. The whole Liu Family is diligent! "Then allow Concubine Liu to stay at home for a night. Today, the old Liu can rest, allowing them to reunite as a family." Xiao Yunzhou was especially gracious. [Ah, I want to go too!] Xiao Chuchu pouted for a moment. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile, gently tapping the nose of his precious little princess. "Wei Zheng, prepare a cloth robe. After reviewing this morning''s memorials, I will go in disguise for a half day of private inspection." Xiao Yunzhou smiled. While the officials rested, he still had work to do. But today, he could give himself a little break. "Well, don''t tell the Liu Family yet, I want to surprise them." Wei Zheng was shocked. The Emperor was going to stay at the Liu Family''s house!? Heavens above! The Liu Family truly had the Emperor''s favor! * At the Zhengyang Gate, Liu Lao received the imperial decree to assist in the Enke examination and prepared to leave the pce. Other officials apanied him, and many people on the road wanted to chat with him. "Brother Wenchang, how about a drink?" "Since there is still half a day of rest, why not go listen to music?" Hong Xing from the Censorate, part of Chancellor Fu Cha and the Empress''s faction, watched as Liu Lao was surrounded by people, with a smile that was not quite a smile. The reason the Emperor valued the Liu Family wasrgely due to their clean background, free from forming cliques and private interests. If Liu Wenchang gets close to other officials, what''s the difference between him and the Fu Cha Family, the Tong Family, and the Queen''s faction? Chancellor Fu Cha was happy to watch the excitement. Hong Xing was even more eager, with a glint in his eyes, ready topete with Liu Wenchang! Just about to preside over the imperial examinations and appoint schrs, he actually went out for drinks with the officials!? This was shamelesslyworking! But they were hoping for Liu to make a mistake, only to hear him politely refuse. "Sorry, I have to go home. My wife has been busy making winter clothes, and I need to hurry back to cook." "???" The group of ministers were all stunned. What? Does Liu, a fourth-rank official who also holds a third-rank position in the court, cook for the Liu family? Liu politely declined all the way, climbed onto the old horse-drawn carriage he rented at the door, and slowly trotted home. "Next time we have a break, I''ll cook for you all." The ministers were shocked. On the roadside outside Zhengyang Gate, another person was also staring nkly. It was none other than Zheng Qiru, a student with wed looks and low self-esteem. It turns out, the Emperor really appoints based on talent! No questions about background, looks, or... whether he''s henpecked? "Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!" Zheng Qiru was excited. [Beep, an extraordinarily talented and loyal individual, your loyalty to the Emperor has reached "dedication to the bone."] "???" Xiao Chuchu, who was being carried into the small courtyard of the Liu family by the Emperor, looked bewildered. Even more bewildered was Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. He looked at the narrow courtyard of the Liu family, where Liu Lao Ye was stirring a big pot of food, smiling and serving his wife and daughters, while reciting the Ministry of Personnel regtions, leaving him speechless. The Emperor didn''t know which one to be more shocked by. A gentleman stays out of the kitchen. Since ancient times, women have been expected to serve their husbands. Howe it''s the opposite in the Liu family? [Oh, no wonder I''ve noticed my maternal family''s intelligence has been increasingtely!] [Also, my maternal uncle, my great uncle, also have an intelligence of 87!?] Emperor Xiao Yunzhou stared, then quickly saw Liu Lao Ye''s elder brother, holding dough in his hands,ing out to greet him. Howe everyone in this family... is doing things like men? The Emperor was stunned. Xiao Chuchu, on the other hand, sighed in her heart, [I told you, being hands-on can stimte brain development~] Emperor Xiao Yunzhou stared. Case solved, case solved! Not only did he sleep less as a child, but even his clothes were put on by eunuchs! Emperor Xiao Yunzhou realized. He was instantly filled with remorse. His IQ didn''t reach ny because of a reason! "Well, Concubine Liu, well, you sit still, I''ll pour the tea myself." "???" "Dare you, Wei Zheng, put the chair back, can''t I... use my own hands?" "???" There was silence in the Liu family''s courtyard. Chapter 65 Chapter 65 Liu Family Courtyard. No one dared to look up at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. After a series of changes in expression, Xiao Yunzhou finally suppressed his surprise upon hearing the princess''s voice. After all, he was the emperor, and there was nothing he hadn''t seen before. In that moment, he regained hisposure. He personally crossed over Wei Zheng, moved a reclining chair in the courtyard, and then made tea for himself, pouring a cup. He didn''t forget to pour for the Liu family as well. "Please, have a seat, all of you. What are you all staring at me for?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. He suppressed the tumult in his heart, but there was still a hint of resentment in his gaze towards Wei Zheng. It was all because of the eunuchs who misled him! They didn''t even leave him the chance to get up in the morning and put on his own shoes! His hands were only good for writing and shooting a bow! Xiao Yunzhou looked at Wei Zheng, who had been with him since childhood, taking care of him. Wei Zheng: "..." He looked bewildered. What had he done wrong? Everything was fine, so why did he upset the emperor again? "Enough, Wei Zheng, sit down. Don''t move unless necessary." "?!" Wei Zheng was almost about to jump in ce. Master Liu, Madam Liu, Concubine Liu who was allowed to stay at home, and Fifth Prince Cheng Qian who was specially permitted to leave the pce today, all lowered their heads, looking at their own toes. It was as if flowers were blooming on the ground. *Cough.* In the end, it was Old Madam Liu who nudged Master Liu''s arm. Master Liu finally woke up as if from a dream, "Your Majesty, you honor our humble home with your presence, we are truly overwhelmed by your favor!" As soon as he spoke, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou noticed the situation in the courtyard. Upon closer inspection, his eyes almost hurt. This courtyard wasn''t even half the size of his study where he usually handled memorials. There was only one well, along with a grape arbor, and two chickens. There wasn''t enough space even for a reclining chair. Surveying the surrounding rooms, the walls were mottled, the curtains worn out, and the passageways narrow. There were only four rooms in total. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, did the Liu family usually live here? Master Liu was truly incorruptible! And Concubine Liu, as a consort, didn''t even take care of the household! This was what a true upright official and consort looked like! Xiao Yunzhou was somewhat moved, immediately waving his hand at the Liu family, "Carry on with your tasks, pay no mind to Us." Though he said that, when Master Liu continued to stir the pot, Xiao Yunzhou stood up and followed behind him. Master Liu: "..." "Your Majesty?" "It''s nothing, We''re just observing." [Stirring the pot, hehe, exercising hand-eye coordination~ Children who are hands-on, with all-round development in virtue, intelligence, physical fitness, aesthetics, andbor, is no lie.] Xiao ChuChu irresponsiblymented in his mind. [Back in the day, there were handicraft and art sses in elementary school, and even a big clean-upbor ss... all scientifically designed educational courses.] Xiao Yunzhou perked up his ears, watching Master Liu stir the pot, his gaze filled with a hint of envy. [Grandfather is already fifty, normally with age, cognitive decline would ur, but being hands-on and using his brain, he has slowed down this decline. Compared to other ministers, grandfather wasn''t considered smart before, but now he''s surpassed them~] Xiao Yunzhou squinted, so that''s how it is. He then turned his gaze with interest to the eldest son of the Liu family, Liu Runnian, who was making noodles. The eldest son of the Liu family was dressed in a schr''s robe, but his noodle-making movements were smooth, indicating that he did it regrly. "I remember, aren''t you also taking the Imperial Examination?" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but ask. Liu Runnian, the eldest son of the Liu family, paused in his noodle-making, "To answer Your Majesty, I am preparing for the next year''s examination." He was currently a sessful candidate. "Oh, besides studying, what else do you do in your daily life?" Liu Runnian was about to speak when a young and adorable voice chimed in, answering for him in advance. "My eldest uncle does a lot of things, he doesn''t like studying! He hides in the study every day, only studying for less than half an hour, the rest of the time he''s wandering around the house, haha!" Liu Runnian: "!" His face stiffened for a moment. Who? He had been hearing this voice since a while ago, was it his niece? How did she, how did she know? "Hehe, my eldest uncle thought he was like my grandfather, dull-witted and unlucky, so he took the Imperial Examination twice but wasn''t epted." "But in reality, my eldest uncle doesn''t love studying at all. The total time spent studying is probably only one-tenth of my grandfather''s." "He''s only willing to read an article or a book three times at most, but even so, he passed the sessful candidate examination with flying colors~" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. The Liu family was dumbfounded, especially Master Liu, who stood behind Xiao Yunzhou, staring at his son as if his eyes were about to shoot fire! Liu Runnian, Liu Runnian slowly turned red. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou thought that Liu Runnian was too embarrassed to lie to him and was ashamed to speak. Just as he was about to speak to spare him the embarrassment, Xiao Chuchu spoke up again. "My eldest uncle is actually a craftsman~" "He secretly hides in the study every day, studying various wooden gadgets, even the study desk was made by himself." "Whenever he buys a kite on the street, he has to dismantle it and re-paste it himself. After pasting it, it can fly higher and farther..." "So, he secretly tinkers with small gadgets in the study..." "In less than a month, he made three hundred taels in secret." "Lately, he spent all three hundred taels on fireworks, preparing to study a new type of fireworks that can turn into butterfly patterns." "About to seed~" Master Liu, Old Madam of Liu Family, and Concubine Liu were all stunned. Wow, Liu Runnian pretends to be in the study all day, just to do this!? Emperor Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. "Ah, so practical ability promotes innovation and intellectual improvement." "Interest is the best teacher~" Xiao Chuchu mumbled, "In fact, my grandfather and eldest uncle were not geniuses, just ordinary, but their intellectual development in theter stage was quite good." She couldn''t help but marvel at the scientific nature of modern education. Liu Runnian, the eldest son of the Liu family, looked up in shock at his father. Master Liu also looked at him in shock. One wanted to escape, the other wanted to beat the other. ... After finishing his meal, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou did not stay in the Liu family''s courtyard. He instructed Concubine Liu to take good care of the little princess and hurried back to the imperial pce. The first thing he did was summon the eunuch in charge. "Starting today, tell the princes'' personal eunuchs that they should wash, dress, and put on their shoes by themselves!" The eunuch simply couldn''t believe his ears. "Also, during lunchtime, let the princes all go to the kitchen to observe." Huh? The eunuch looked up in confusion. "After they have observed, let the princes help with washing and selecting vegetables, for about the time it takes an incense stick to burn." "!!!" What in the world? The news spread throughout the pce that day. Not only were the eunuchs and pce maids shocked and spreading the word, even the empress and concubines hurriedly ran to the Cining Pce, joining the empress dowager in opposition. How could the princes wash vegetables? What is the emperor thinking? But the opposition was in vain. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "As concubines in the pce, you must lead by example as well. Starting today, reduce the number of pce maids and eunuchs by one third, and personally go to the kitchen to help." The empress and concubines almost thought they had misheard. The emperor had gone mad. "Mother, you are of old age, so you don''t have to do it," Xiao Yunzhou also knew filial piety, "just weave in the pce." Even the empress dowager fell silent, even she had work to do? Is the Jing Country finished? Is the treasury out of silver? Can''t even afford eunuchs anymore? The empress dowager was terrified. After ten days of continuous turmoil, officials began to submit memorials of opposition. Among them, the most severe were the Imperial Censors led by Imperial Cab Lord Fu Cha. "Your Majesty, you have been neglecting your duties by studying medicine with the imperial physician in recent days." "Why are you allowing the princes to join in the fun and neglect their studies? A nobleman stays far from the kitchen, and a prince''s studies are for the sake of the country and the people!" Xiao Yunzhou was cornered in the morning court, with almost all the ministers kneeling on the ground. "Your Majesty, diligence leads to excellence while idleness leads to decay!" "Each trade has its own specialization! How can the princes enter the kitchen? How can the emperor intervene in the affairs of the Imperial Academy of Medicine?!" Each person''s words were like a torrent that threatened to engulf Xiao Yunzhou. But he held the little princess in his arms, and soon saw the iron cavalry rushing towards the court. "Report¡ª" "Your Majesty, urgent news from eight hundred miles away!" "Liu Chang from the Imperial Academy of Medicine, leading one hundred physicians from the outskirts, used the epidemic-dispersing form drafted by Your Majesty to control the imminent outbreak of the epidemic!" "Three thousand people infected, and one thousand two hundred have been preliminarily cured!" The entire civil and military officials were left speechless. What? Physicians using whose form? The emperor''s?!! Chapter 66 Chapter 66 "Your Majesty, due to early preparation, the epidemic has now been controlled within a small area!" The soldier reporting knelt down to inform. "The imperial physicians have set up istion tents for the patients, and the bodies are all cremated, and the utensils are all disinfected at high temperatures." "The remedy proposed by Your Majesty, arge number of mild patients, have shown improvement after three doses!" The civil and military officials were all stunned. The censor who dared to criticize Emperor Xiao Yunzhou for not focusing on his duties, Chancellor Fu Cha, started to tremble and closed his mouth! What do you mean by the remedy proposed by the Emperor? Wait, the Emperor summoned the chief imperial physician and several imperial physicians to the study a dozen days ago, was it for this epidemic remedy!? The cab has not yet received news of the outbreak of the epidemic at the flood site! "Imperial Physician Xu said that the epidemic spread quickly in the early stages this time. Fortunately, Your Majesty sent them in time. Otherwise, if they were three dayste, the epidemic would have spread, and the number of patients could have reached tens of thousands! The situation would have been uncontroble!" The soldier reporting from the flood site kowtowed on the ground. His eyes were red. "Now, the recoveredmoners and their families have asked the local county magistrate to write a thank-you letter for Your Majesty''s protection, with the signatures of ten thousand people!" The reporting soldier was obviously one of them. As he spoke, tears began to fall from the corners of his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away. With great respect, he carefully took out a scroll from his pocket. "If it weren''t for Your Majesty, the people of Mingxi Town and Luhan County would have turned into bones!" The soldier kowtowed, raised his hands high, and his voice was like a bell! "Your Majesty''s grace is vast, protecting the people! We swear to follow Your Majesty to the death!" "Long live Your Majesty!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou on the dragon throne, his usually gentle eyes were bloodshot! He tightly grasped the golden armrest of the dragon throne, his chest vibrating and burning. "Get up!" In his ten years on the throne, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou felt the people''s sincere and resolute support for the first time! For the first time, he felt the blood boiling as an emperor! So, being a good emperor who actually does things, being remembered by the people, is this feeling? "I will not abandon any of the people of Jing Country!" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou stood up in excitement. The civil and military officials,ing back to their senses from shock, looked at Chancellor Fu Cha, feeling dazzled. The former crown prince who was only as tall as his waist had grown up. Taller than any other day in the past! It was as if he saw the dragon''s face for the first time. "Long Duo, Chancellor Fu Cha," Emperor Xiao Yunzhou had the messenger from afar settled down, then sat back down and looked at the two who had just advised him. "What did you just say to me?" "I forgot, say it again." Chancellor Fu Cha opened his mouth silently, his old face turning red. And Long Duo behind him, a third-rank court official, the champion of the imperial examination back then, ranked in the top three among the officials in this sudden assessment by the Emperor. He had high hopes from Chancellor Fu Cha, and he was the first to admonish the Emperor, criticizing the new arrangements like the prince''sck of studying, doing chores in the kitchen, and... even criticizing the Emperor for discussing longevity medicine with the imperial physicians...! But now, Long Duo, full of knowledge, faced Xiao Yunzhou, but couldn''t say a word! "Long Duo, what did you just say to Us? What do you hope Us to correct, hmm?" Long Duo: "......" His ears turned red. Silence! Otherwise, what could he answer? Should he say that the emperor is neglecting his duties? What a joke! If saving thousands of refugees doesn''t count as attending to his duties, then Long Duo standing in the court and only talking would mean he hasn''t done anything important at all! Long Duo''s face stiffened, turning red. Originally arranged by Chancellor Fu Cha to be the first to criticize the emperor, he must make the emperor understand what an emperor should and should not do! Now... Long Duo felt embarrassed. "I, I do not know the full picture, my blind advice is biased." Long Duo directly knelt down. Taking off his official hat, "I, have no face to face the emperor, no face to face the thousands of refugees!" By the end of his words, he wished he could dig a hole and hide in it. He was truly ashamed! Xiao Yunzhou smiled, feeling relieved~ Since having the little princess, he has increasingly appreciated the satisfaction of teaching the officials. But he only smiled for a while before stopping. By avoiding the epidemic, Jing Country avoided a crisis of national destruction. However, Jing Country''s national strength still remained mediocre, without significant improvement. "Rise." Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, looking at the civil and military officials. Currently, there were no ministers with an intelligence level below 50 in the court. But it''s still not enough! "We hope that you all, too, will bring out your strengths and do your best! Do not waste your energy on factionalism and selfishness!" The officials in the court had stiff expressions. "From today onwards, whoever brings out their strengths and achieves great things, We will reward them!" [Yes, our national strength is low in various aspects.] Xiao Chuchu listened and couldn''t help but check the variousponents of national strength. The information provided by the system was clear. [Medicine - Low] [Economy - Low] [Military - Low] [Agriculture - Poor] [Industry - Low] [Commerce - Low] Xiao Chuchu looked and suddenly became alert. [Oh, after a few days of not checking, our medical sector has slightly improved. But the evaluation ofmerce has decreased because the neighboring country has improved its handicraft industry.] Upon hearing his daughter''s thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression became serious. One up, one down, not optimistic! This was the first time he had heard such a detailed analysis of national strength. It turned out that Jing Country had nothing to show off! Unbelievable! "Regarding the matter of the prince studying in the kitchen," Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, "You no longer need to advise Us." "If one does not sweep his own house, how can he sweep the entire world?" "If one cannot distinguish the five grains, how can he be a master?" Xiao Yunzhou sighed, Jing Country must improve in all aspects, it cannot raise a prince who only knows how to write! "My ministers, if you have free time, I also hope that you can do some farming and carpentry." Xiao Yunzhou spoke. The civil and military officials were stunned. Except for the bowed Liu family elder, everyone else''s faces changed drastically. What''s going on? The emperor is not satisfied with his own son, and now he wants to criticize them too? Xiao Yunzhou emphasized, "These rted activities may enhance your thinking abilities." The ministers were all wide-eyed. Is the emperor openly criticizing them for being stupid!? Long Duo, who had just been humiliated, was the first to respond loudly, "I obey the decree! When I return today, I will follow the Emperor''s example and study medical books in my spare time, and practice woodworking." "The Emperor is wise! Getting close to the people''s lives can benefit the people!" The entire court was left speechless. Is there some truth to that? Damn, why does this official keep getting weirder as he goes? But the Emperor was prepared for the epidemic, and they were not. The Emperor came up with a prescription, and they did not. They had no face to argue! The ministers all bowed their heads. It''s just woodworking, right? Just observing in the kitchen, right? Let''s do it! "Ministers, it''s gettingte, you may leave if you have no further matters to discuss, otherwise present your reports." Wei Zheng nced at the sun and spoke. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was ready to go back and y with his daughter. Who knows, maybe he''ll drop another medical book or something. At the very least, he could drop a book on weaving for Concubine Liu. But just as he was thinking this, a minister from the Ministry of Rites stood up. "Your Majesty, the envoy from Wu Yun Country arrived in the capital yesterday and wishes to meet with Your Majesty in theing days." Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Wu Yun Countryst paid tribute to our Jing Country twenty years ago." He was delighted. But the minister from the Ministry of Rites awkwardly said, "It''s not about paying tribute to our Jing Country, they want to establish trade between our borders." Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. During his grandfather''s reign, Wu Yun Country was very weak and could only survive by relying on their Jing Country. However, after his father''s rule, Wu Yun Country gradually grew stronger, grew wings, and no longer paid tribute. His father also did not like them and cut off contact. Xiao Yunzhou frowned, "Decline the request." Rules cannot be changed here! But as soon as he finished speaking, the minister from the Ministry of Rites took his leave, and he heard his daughter whining in his arms. [I remembered, when Wu Yun Country sent an envoy and wanted to trade with us, the Emperor in the novel also refused the other party.] [As a result, Wu Yun Country turned to trade with the neighboring Chu State, selling them a batch of new fast warhorses!] [The cavalry of Chu State greatly improved, and half a yearter, they came to the border of our Jing Country and plundered the people''s goods.] Xiao Chu Chu''s face turned red as she whined. "!" Xiao Yunzhou stared. He quickly raised his hand as Wei Zheng called for the court to adjourn. "Wait!" Chapter 67 Chapter 67 Inn in the capital city. Wu Yun Country envoy Zhan Duo, with a stubbly beard and dark skin, just returned to the room and shook his head at hispanion inside. "We''ve probably made a wasted trip." "What do you mean?" "Jing Country has left us here for nearly two days without anyone attending to us, showing their disdain towards us!" "Ah. We are closest to Jing Country, and if we can establish trade with them, it would be ideal. But if Jing Country is arrogant and sees us as barbarians, we can trade with other neighboring countries." The two envoys sat discussing, lowering their voices involuntarily. "By the way, did you hear anything about the preferences of Jing Country Emperor Xiao Yunzhou?" Wu Yun Country envoy Zhan Duo''s expression turned strange at the mention. "Today, while I was outside, I heard themon people gossiping that the Jing Country Emperor''s temperament has changed drastically recently. He is working in the fields with his ministers and even has the prince cooking and washing vegetables." "His concubines are sewing clothes every day." "...? Is it strange for the Jing Country royal family to be like this?" "Just now, the innkeeper seemed to say that from today onwards, they will be learning woodworking." "???" The two Wu Yun Country envoys looked at each other with strange expressions. Shaking their heads, "It seems like we will leave disappointed this time." "Let''s go to Chu State next. The Emperor of Chu State is diligently building a strong army!" The two envoys sighed, "Let''s wait another day. If Jing Country still leaves us hanging here tomorrow, we will leave." "There are still many buyers." But just as they said that, footsteps were heard at the door! The officials weing the visiting envoys from the inn arrived along with officials from the Ministry of Rites. "Two of you, our Jing Country Emperor will host a banquet for you tonight." The Wu Yun Country envoys looked at each other in surprise. Before the state banquet, Xiao Yunzhou returned the little princess to Concubine Liu, who hade back with winter clothes. He didn''t even need the maids to pour tea when he arrived at Donghua Pce. He had the tea set brought directly, and Xiao Yunzhou personally made tea, pouring it for everyone. Consort Min neither sat nor stood, watching the Emperor pour tea for Concubine Liu, her expression twitching. "You don''t need to be so formal; I want to drink too." Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand generously towards Consort Min, "You all sit, no need to be polite to me." The Emperor had developed a liking for doing things himself now! Consort Min couldn''t help it and rolled her eyes on the spot, "Your Majesty, this concubine doesn''t need it. The maid Qiu Li next to Concubine Liu makes tea, which is much better than what you make." Xiao Yunzhou: "..." Concubine Liu, holding the little princess, suppressed augh before it escaped. Since returning from the Liu family''s courtyard that day, the Emperor had been trying hard to personally handle small matters around him. But the effect was not great. After all,pared to the eunuchs and pce maids who were used to doing things, the Emperor''s skills werecking. Consort Min''s disgust was genuine, not fake. "Your Majesty, the vegetables washed by the Sixth Prince still have mud on them. I really can''t eat them; I''ve been storing them." "Just wait for the Emperor toe today and have the kitchen make it for the Emperor." Xiao Yunzhou: "..." Concubine Liu''s chest trembled silently. Cheng Qian was also washing vegetables in the kitchen, much slower than the people in the back kitchen, but still clean. But they were quitete for their mealtime. Cheng Shan washed the vegetables, and as the mother of the house, she naturally wanted to taste them, no matter howte it was. But Consort Min couldn''t do it. She didn''t like vegetarian food in the first ce, and now she couldn''t stand eating dirty vegetables. "Your Majesty, please bring Cheng Shan to Chonghua Pce." "Haha, enjoy your vegetables over there." Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t sit still. "Ahem, I have to entertain the envoys tonight, I''m very busy, so you all can have your meal on your own." Consort Min rolled her eyes. Xiao Yunzhou hurriedly left Donghua Pce, but before leaving, he instructed Concubine Liu, "y with the little princess for a while, we will have the banquetter, I will have Wei Zhenge to get her." "Wow, that''s great! I can also go see foreigners." Xiao Chuchu grinned happily. Just as Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, who hade to greet his mother, entered the room, he heard his sister say, "Wu Yun Country advocates white." "For example, a white war horse is considered a spiritual being. White jade without ws is also considered a noble and sacred object, only those with abilities can wear it." Xiao Chuchu thought to herself, then she noticed the amber ornament on her brother''s body and couldn''t help but exim, "Brother, why aren''t you wearing the white jade you usually wear?" "Otherwise, at tonight''s banquet, my brother would definitely catch the eye of the envoys!" Cheng Qian was taken aback and looked down at his waist. Concubine Liu coughed lightly, "Cheng Qian, the auspicious knot on your jade cord is a bit old. It''s inappropriate for you to wear it when your father is entertaining the envoys." "I happen to have a new bat-shaped knot here that goes well with the white jade your father gave you recently. It would be more suitable, so why don''t you change into it?" On the other side of the main hall, Xiao Yunzhou was busy preparing a feast for the envoys, both the kitchen and the Ministry of Rites were bustling with activity. "The Emperor is so eager, he''s really boosting Wu Yun Country''s confidence." "Yes, these barbarians think they can trade with us on equal terms? What a dream!" Before the envoys arrived, the ministers who were forced to work overtime for the banquet were alreadyining. Wu Yun Country was located to the west of Jing Country, and the two countries had little interaction in the past. "The environment in Wu Yun Country is all grasnds, and their silk weaving and farming are backward." "Thete Emperor didn''t like to deal with Wu Yun Country." "Thete Emperor was right, these barbarians who started out eating raw meat really aren''t worth our attention in Jing Country." "Exactly, what can they offer us in trade? They are even very outdated in dyeing techniques." "Herbs are scarce due to the severe winter, and the local supply is limited." "They are not as good as the neighboring Chu State, which can trade weapons and food with us." "Ah, why is the Emperor entertaining them tonight? I wonder what his intentions are." Xiao Yunzhou arrived early, sat on the throne, clearly attaching great importance to today''s meeting with the envoys. The ministers couldn''t quite understand. Soon, the princes also arrived, including Fifth Prince Cheng Qian, who brought his sister Xiao Chuchu along. Xiao Yunzhou smiled as he had his sons take their seats, and he personally held Xiao Chuchu in his arms. "Report - Your Majesty, the two envoys are waiting outside the hall." "Good, please bring them in!" Xiao Chuchu was suddenly in the Emperor''s embrace, looking excited and expectant as she gazed towards the entrance of the hall. Soon, two men dressed in brown fur robes, with wheat-colored skin weathered by the wind and sun, walked in. At first nce, not only Xiao Chuchu, but even the Emperor and the court officials gasped in surprise. The envoy from Wu Yun Country was too tall! Taller by half a headpared to the Jing Country guards leading the way! And it seemed that the arms of these two envoys were thicker than the Jing Country guards. Compared to the guards, the envoys looked more like soldiers on the battlefield! [Sigh, eating beef and mutton regrly, horseback riding, hunting, and sunbathing really make them taller than us Jing Country people.] Listening to his daughter''s thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou squinted his eyes. So eating beef and mutton was the secret!? Oxen were too valuable to eat, but mutton was an option. Also, sunbathing regrly can make one taller? Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed continuously. It was truly infuriating! When he was young, even the pce maids and eunuchs were afraid of him getting sunburned! It turns out he had been pampered too much... Xiao Yunzhou felt bitter and couldn''t help but look at Wu Yun Country''s envoys with a hint of amazement and envy in his eyes. If only he had known, he could have been so tall too! The envoys from Wu Yun Country reluctantly bowed to Xiao Yunzhou, and their expressions stiffened upon standing up. Because just now, while waiting outside the hall, they overheard the Jing Country ministers belittling their tribe from Wu Yun Country. Jing Country looked down on them! Look at this Jing Country Emperor, his gaze was so arrogant and disrespectful... The envoys from Wu Yun Country raised their heads in annoyance and stared directly at Xiao Yunzhou. However, as soon as they raised their heads, all their anger was stifled! Huh? Wait, why did the Jing Country Emperor''s gaze towards themck disdain,ck contempt, but instead had... delight, goodwill, and even a hint of envy? "I didn''t expect the two envoys to be as tall as the door curtain." Xiao Yunzhou mused, regretting his own height, unconsciously speaking his mind. "Just as you entered, I thought I saw two door pirs, hehe." The entire court was taken aback. Even the Old Master of the Liu Family couldn''t help but give Xiao Yunzhou a disapproving look. The Emperor was being toxic! The envoys showed courtesy by bowing to the Emperor, yet the Emperor called them stone pirs! Was he out of his mind... If he wanted to assert his authority, he could have just ignored the envoys. But to invite them for a meal and insult them to their faces... was he looking for trouble? The Old Master of the Liu Family was anxious. The country was already on the brink of copse, did he really want to provoke more enmity? After blurting out, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression suddenly changed. He realized he had said the wrong thing. "Uh, two envoys, I didn''t mean anything by it." Xiao Yunzhou tried to make amends. But the next moment, the Emperor and the Old Master of the Liu Family''s expressions changed. [Sigh, how did the Emperor know that people from Wu Yun Country love being praised for their height?] Xiao Chuchu chuckled, [They oftenpare the Khan to tall mountains and pces.] Xiao Yunzhou, the Old Master of the Liu Family: "..." Sure enough, in the next moment, the two envoys who were originally dark-faced and dissatisfied with Jing Country, suddenly showed a smile. "Your Majesty of Jing Country, we were appointed as envoys for this mission because we are the tallest and strongest in our tribe." "Your Majesty of Jing Country, thank you for your praise." "We will remember your sincere kindness!" Huh? Calling you door pirs, is that considered kindness? Or sincerity? All the officials of Jing Country were left dumbfounded. Chapter 68 Chapter 68 The entire hall of Jing Country was stunned into silence. If anyone dared say they were stone pirs, they would re back in disbelief. But the two envoys from Wu Yun Country were delighted, looking like fools. It was jaw-dropping! [These two envoys'' favorable impression of the Emperor Father increased, currently at the ''negotiable'' level.] [Emperor Father, just praise them a bit more, and you can drive a hard bargainter!] Xiao Chuchu nced at the system and felt pleased. "Ahem," Xiao Yunzhou also choked a little, hurriedly taking a deep breath and looking towards the two big men, "We... merely spoke the truth." Hearing this, the two envoys became even more delighted, "Your truthful words make us so happy. May you and your descendants be strong and mighty, like towering stone pirs!" "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched, this blessing... was beyond words! He couldn''t bear to look at their foolish sweetness anymore, so he hurriedly brought the topic back, "By the way, have the two envoys brought war horses from Wu Yun Country this time?" The entire court of Jing Country froze, looking up at Xiao Yunzhou. The Minister of Rites immediately stepped out, hinting with a frown, "Your Majesty, the envoys from Wu Yun Country did not bring arge number of horses." Wu Yun Country, a grasnd nation, did indeed raise arge number of horsespared to Jing Country. But Wu Yun Country''s horses had short legs and thick tails, with decent endurance but average speed. Not to mention Jing Country, even the neighboring Chu State looked down upon them! Wu Yun Country''s horses had not sold well for several years. Why should Jing Country be the scapegoat? They truly had no interest in Wu Yun Country''s trade requests. Wu Yun horses on the battlefield could not outrun others! The Minister of Revenue chuckled, "Your Majesty, Wu Yun Country has not traded horses for the past ten years." They couldn''t sell them! Only a fool would buy them! "Your expectations are likely in vain." But before he could sit back down and the court officials could nod in agreement, The two envoys from Wu Yun Country stood there, looking shocked, delighted, and fearful, staring at Xiao Yunzhou! "Esteemed Emperor of Jing Country!" "How did you know that we wanted to trade horses with you?" The entire court of Jing Country was dumbfounded. What? The Ministers of Rites and Revenue couldn''t believe it, and even the Minister of War was about to roll his eyes. How shameless! Where''s Wu Yun Country''s face? "Hmph." An official from the Ministry of War stood up in anger, "Who within a thousand miles doesn''t know that your Wu Yun cavalry waspletely wiped out by the Tata Tribe five years ago!" "Cavalry should be able to withstand five times their number, but your Wu Yun horses were too slow, and in the end, they were surrounded and defeated!" The official from the Ministry of War was very wary, "Those horses are at best used for hauling goods." "Anyway, our soldiers in Jing Country don''t want them!" The Minister of Revenue hurriedly spoke up, turning towards Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, "Our Jing Country has many waterways, so we can use water transportation instead of pack horses. Your Majesty, we don''t need pack horses either." The Ministry of Revenue managed the finances, and the Minister firmly objected to buying these useless things! Xiao Yunzhou was given a headache by their constant chatter. Xiao Chuchu in his arms also frowned in pain, [Awoo, they don''t know that after the Wu Yun cavalry''s defeat, Wu Yun Country reflected deeply, purchasing horses from surrounding tribes and breeding them multiple times.] [After five years... the new bloodline of Wu Yun war horses has been upgraded, and the short-legged horses have grown taller!] [Now a single new bloodline Wu Yun war horse has a top speed three times faster than before, and its endurance is no less than the previous short-legged horses.] Xiao Chuchu blinked at Xiao Yunzhou''s arms. Xiao Yunzhou nodded silently, raising his hand to signal the officials from the Ministries of War and Revenue who wanted to continue objecting to be quiet. "Silence." "Times change, people change. Don''t be narrow-minded; you should know that in this vast world, others also have the possibility of improvement." Xiao Yunzhou gestured for the Ministries of War and Revenue to sit down. "Our talented Jing Country has capable people, so why can''t Wu Yun?" The two envoys from Wu Yun Country were initially angry when the officials of Jing Country criticized the quality of their horses. But upon hearing Xiao Yunzhou''s words, their eyes lit up. They were touched! Jing Country, the nation of courtesy, did not look down on their small Wu Yun Country, as shown by the Emperor''s words. That''s right, why should only Jing Country be capable? Couldn''t Wu Yun Country make progress? The two envoys immediately stood up, cing their hands on their left chests and respectfully performed the highest ceremonial greeting of Wu Yun Country to Xiao Yunzhou. "Thank you, Emperor of Jing Country, for acknowledging the wisdom of our people." "We have indeed bred a breed of war horses with increased speed." "We didn''t expect that even the Emperor of Jing Country, a thousand miles away, would see through this. You are truly wise!" The envoys saw Xiao Yunzhou in a new light! The Ministers of War and Revenue of Jing Country opened their mouths. The officials, especially those from the Ministry of Rites who greeted the envoys, could not believe it. Wu Yun Country really came to sell horses!? How did the Emperor know? "Then where are your horses? Why didn''t you bring them into our Jing Country?" "You only rode a few dozen horses here!" Because the number was so small, the officials from the Ministry of Rites thought they hade to sell mutton! The envoy from Wu Yun Country smiled and bowed, "Because the new horses are extremely fast." "If Jing Country is interested in purchasing them, we can send a message back, and within five days, they will arrive in Jing Country inrge numbers." "This way, Jing Country can also see the speed of our new horses." "...!" The officials of Jing Country were speechless. Wow, you''re really good at putting on a show! Five days... arriving in the capital in five days? What kind of speed is that? The Minister of War felt a chill down his spine. If it wasn''t for selling horses, but rather Wu Yun Country''s cavalry, with such speed, could Jing Country''s cavalry and infantry withstand them? "Excellent!" "Just as We expected!" Xiao Yunzhou mmed down his wine cup, shamelessly boasting to the end. Heughed heartily and invited the envoys to be seated. [With these war horses, our military strength will be enhanced, right?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but look forward to it in her heart. [Wu Yun Country values strength and dislikes empty talk.] [So in business negotiations, they also prefer to be more direct, without beating around the bush.] [They didn''t bring arge number of horses into Jing Country, but they did bring a few breeding horses.] [Divided into high, medium, and low grades, waiting for us to evaluate.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, "Then let Us be direct and not talk vaguely." He leaned forward, pressing towards the envoys. "The two of you havee from afar, and it''s unlikely that you''re just here for a visit." "You must have brought different types of breeding horses, so why not bring them to today''s banquet for Us to admire first." The court officials were stunned. The two envoys from Wu Yun Country stood there, looking shocked, delighted, and fearful, staring at Xiao Yunzhou! "Esteemed Emperor of Jing Country!" "How did you know that we had brought different types of breeding horses on our journey?" The Emperor of Jing Country is too powerful, isn''t he? "Correct, the twelve of us who havee here have brought with us, six of the best new war horses, six of the medium new war horses, six of the lower new war horses, as well as twelve of the old short-legged horses." The envoy truly admired Xiao Yunzhou. "If all officials of Jing Country are as wise and formidable as you, the Emperor of Jing Country, then Jing Country must be the greatest in the world, unmatched by any other!" The officials of Jing Country: "???" Chapter 69 Chapter 69 "If all Jing Country officials were as wise and valiant as Your Majesty the King of Jing, Jing Country would undoubtedly be the greatest in the world, unrivaled by any!" The Wu Yun envoy''s ttery astounded the entire court of Jing Country ministers. [Ding, the Wu Yun envoy''s affinity level has increased to LV2 ''Willing to Negotiate'' trade level.] [The highest level is LV5 ''Willing to Offer the Lowest Price'' friendly level.] Xiao Chuchu blinked. Xiao Yunzhou, upon hearing his daughter''s thoughts, narrowed his eyes and looked towards the remaining two envoys, sensing untapped potential. The banquet soon began. The Wu Yun envoy instructed his attendant, along with officials from the Ministry of Rites and guards, to fetch horses from the courier station. The courier station was within the imperial city, so it wouldn''t take long. Everyone ate while waiting. During the banquet, Xiao Yunzhou also arranged for performances from the pce''s singers and dancers to entertain the Wu Yun envoys. [Woo-woo, the Wu Yun people were raised in a life of harshness and bloodshed in their early years.] [They most revere those with physical strength and martial prowess. Their preferred women are also capable, frank, and robust.] Xiao Chuchu exchanged gossip using the system information. [Slender women would starve on the grasnds.] Xiao Yunzhou listened and was taken aback. He looked at the thin-armed, thin-legged singing girls in the hall, his expression instantly stiffening. Indeed, when he turned to look at the two envoys, their eyes were fixed on the slender figures of the pce dancers, and they yawned. Evidently, the dancers were not to their taste. Xiao Yunzhou let out a hiss. [So it seems, the Wu Yun people prefer strong liquor, fierce horses, and domineering women!] Xiao Chuchu excitedlymented to herself, absorbed in the juicy gossip from the system. Domineering women? Xiao Yunzhou immediately nced sharply at the Old Master of the Liu Family. "???" The Old Master of the Liu Family blinked in confusion, his mouth twitching. As expected, Xiao Yunzhou spoke up, "Old Master Liu, how has your wife beentely? Has she scolded you again and pinned you against the wall?" "??!" The Old Master of the Liu Family''s eyebrows twitched uncontrobly. If he hadn''t heard his great-granddaughter''s thoughts, he would have wanted to pin the Emperor against the wall right now! How could he ask such a question! It was unbing of the monarch! But never mind, whatever his great-granddaughter said wasw. "Ahem, she didn''t scold this subject. It''s just that I woke up a bitte today and almost missed the morning court." "My wife kicked this subject out of bed with one foot this morning." "She didn''t even give me breakfast, just kicked me out the door." "!" The surrounding officials stared at the Old Master in disbelief. To share such an embarrassing incident, and in front of a foreign nation, was he really alright? But when the Jing Country officials thought the Old Master had disgraced himself beyond redemption, they heard the two Wu Yun envoys burst into heartyughter. "Hahaha! So Jing Country also has such domineering women?" The two envoys apuded, their eyes now shifting from the graceful dancers to the Old Master. They spoke highly of him, "It''s a pity we''re already married." "Otherwise, we''d like to take such formidable wives too." tter - tter - All the officials dropped their chopsticks. [Hey, the envoys'' affinity level has directly increased to LV3!] "Pfft--" Xiao Yunzhou nearly spat out his wine. "Ah, we had always thought Jing Country valued feminine fragility as the standard of beauty for both men and women, all delicate skin and bones, incapable of aplishing anything. Now we see our views were mistaken." The two envoys were ashamed, their eyes filled with regret. "We haven''tmunicated with your esteemed nation for so long that we failed to understand its true situation. It was a grave mistake on our part." "It turns out Jing Country is like our own. We have a saying in Wu Yun: ''A formidable wife is a heaven-sent treasure.''" "Pfft--" "Cough cough..." The entire court of civil and military officials erupted in coughing fits. The two envoys immediately raised their cups to toast the Old Master of the Liu Family, evidently bonding over their experiences of being henpecked by their wives. The more they conversed, the moremon ground they found. "Tomorrow, we shall visit Brother Liu!" "Wee, wee!" The Old Master grinned. The entire court was speechless. Xiao Yunzhou was delighted, listening to his daughter report the steadily increasing affinity levels of the envoys. "Your Majesty, the horses from the courier station have arrived outside the hall." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. "Men, bring thenterns!" "We shall apany the envoys and ministers to admire the horses!" Everyone streamed out, walking to the outer courtyard. Even the infant Xiao Chuchu craned her neck, as the ancient horses were much more robust than those she had seen at modern amusement parks. She was very interested. "These three are our new breed of war horses." The Wu Yun envoy pointed to the three sturdy horses led by the attendants. One ck, one white, and one brown. Their coat colors were unclear in the night. Guards and pce maids on both sides heldnterns, illuminating the sides of the three horses. "Please allow the esteemed King of Jing Country to have a look." The envoy respectfully bowed. "Which grade do you fancy for trade with our country?" The surrounding officials followed behind Xiao Yunzhou. Upon hearing this, Chancellor Fu Cha frowned. "Wu Yun envoys, our King is esteemed. It would be better for our Minister of War to inspect the horses." How would the King know how to judge horses! Chancellor Fu Cha shook his head inwardly. The King had learned horse riding and archery in the pce since childhood, but the horses in the pce had always been meticulously selected fine Jing Country steeds. There was never a need for Xiao Yunzhou to personally pick horse breeds in the pce. Fu Cha was afraid the King would carelessly make a poor choice. Paying a high price to purchase inferior horses would not only be a loss for their nation but also a disgrace if mocked by neighboring countries! "Minister of War, you inspect the horses on behalf of the King," Fu Cha ordered, ignoring the King as usual. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. "The Chancellor worries too much." He looked at Fu Cha with resentment. Here ites again. Not letting the child take the lead! He now understood that since childhood, Fu Cha and the previous Chancellor Tong had overprotected him. They preferred he do nothing at all! Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes in anguish. Soon, the Minister of War, who had seen battlefields in his youth, bypassed him and approached the horses, shoving Xiao Yunzhou out of position. It didn''t take long before the Minister of War favored the lead jet-ck stallion. "Sleek and glossy ck coat, clean ears, limbs agile and long - not bad, a prime specimen!" The two Wu Yun envoys'' smiles grew even wider than before. They even yielded their standing spots for the Minister of War to closely examine the ck horse''s powerful build. "Your Majesty, this ck horse should be acquired for Jing Country. It is taller than our military horses by more than five inches." Xiao Yunzhou listened with raised brows, greatly tempted. His daughter had said that the military strength of Jing Country wascking. Upgrading and recing the war horses was definitely valuable! If spending money, only the best would do! He immediately stepped forward, also admiring the ck horse with satisfaction. But just for a fleeting moment, he heard Xiao Chuchu let out a wail from within Wei Zheng''s embrace, interrupting his steps. [The Minister of War has made a mistake!] [Of the three horses, only the white one is of the highest grade.] [The ck horse is of middle grade, and the brown horse is of the lowest grade.] Xiao Chuchu lifted her head while in Wei Zheng''s arms and looked, instantly rmed! [Chu State purchased the highest-grade white horses!] Xiao Yunzhou''s steps came to an abrupt halt! [This white horse is the new secret of war horses that Wu Yun Country discovered after their cavalry suffered a great defeat, observing the horses of the opposing tribes!] [War horses not only need to be mighty and tall, but also agile!] [Of these three, only the white horse has a slender and long neck, allowing it to turn swiftly!] [The ck horse has an advantage in straight-line sprinting but struggles inplex battle environments and terrain.] [Hence, the ck horse is middle grade, while the white horse is top grade!] [Chu State spent thirty thousand gold to exchange for a thousand of these superior horses!] The hand Xiao Yunzhou was about to ce on the ck horse''s head suddenly changed direction, moving towards the white horse on the left. A group of people from the War Ministry frowned in displeasure. "Your Majesty, are you perhaps selecting a visually appealing white horse for thedies of the harem? Then at most, you would need only a dozen or so." How could the Emperor only consider the appearance of the horses! The War Ministry officials hurriedly eximed, "If we''re talking about horsepower, the ck horse is definitely superior." But as their words trailed off, they heard the two envoys from Wu Yun Country let out a sharp gasp. "Esteemed Emperor of Jing Country!" "How could you discern the superior horse at a nce in this dim light, where one''s vision is impaired?!" Chancellor Fu Cha: "?" Minister of War: "?" What? Chapter 70 Chapter 70 The two Wu Yun envoys looked towards Xiao Yunzhou, unable to hide the surprise on their faces. "Even our Wu Yun soldiers were astonished when they first saw these newly bred horses, unable to distinguish the middle from the superior breeds!" "We must put them to the test on horseback!" The ministers of Jing Country were aghast, their mouths agape. Chancellor Fu Cha''s long mustache was fluttering in the wind. The two Wu Yun envoys bowed respectfully to Xiao Yunzhou. "Your Honorable Majesty of Jing Country, you are truly the sun in the sky, your radiance so dazzling." "No heresy or deviant path could obscure your discerning eyes." The ministers of Jing Country stared at the ttering envoys in disbelief. "We have brought a striking white steed, which would be too conspicuous on the battlefield, hoping that your esteemed country would misjudge its quality and be unable to bargain down the price." The Wu Yun envoy sighed, "But little did we expect that our petty tricks would be seen through by Your Majesty at a mere nce." The Wu Yun envoy bowed again, his face flushed red. "We are truly ashamed, and we beg Your Honorable Majesty of Jing Country to forgive our disrespect." The entire court fell silent. Chancellor Fu Cha trembled as he looked towards Xiao Yunzhou. He did not know what was happening, but he felt a twinge of pain on his aged face. Yet, his old back straightened! Their Emperor, their ruler of Jing Country, had risen! Outside the pce, the wind howled. However, all the ministers of Jing Country felt their blood boiling with fervor. How long had it been? How long! Since the reign of the previous emperor, Jing Country had gradually lost its voice among neighboring states. Those who once paid tribute no longer feared them. Those who were once on good terms no longer heeded them. The national strength of Jing Country was declining, its fate seemed to be fading. Under the previous emperor, it became increasingly difficult to reverse the trend. But they still wished to maintain the dignity of Jing Country. If other nations disrespected them, they would not acknowledge those nations! But today, the long-estranged Wu Yun had once again bowed before them in Jing Country! At that moment, all the ministers were filled with emotion. "Your Honorable Majesty of Jing Country, under your dazzling brilliance, we dare not deceive you any further." "If you agree to purchase our nation''s warhorses, we will share with you, without reservation, the methods of breeding and raising these new warhorses." The Wu Yun envoy reverently ced his right hand on his left chest. "It is our honor to trade with such a wise ruler as yourself." Ah, ah. The ministers of Jing Country could not help but smile. Their teeth were almost soured. The Wu Yun envoys ttered their emperor even better than the ministers of Jing Country themselves! "You are too kind, and We also feel fortunate that you have traveled this great distance to Our country." Xiao Yunzhouughed heartily, then led the group back to the banquet. "So, what price are you proposing for trading the warhorses?" "Besides the warhorses, we have heard that you wish to establish border markets with us for trade, is this true?" Xiao Yunzhou felt invigorated by their ttery. But just as he was about to agree, he heard the two envoys quote their price. "Your Majesty of Jing Country, our superior horses are not easy to breed. Raising them to adulthood requires a great deal of high-quality fodder." "But in deference to Your Majesty''s great wisdom, we can offer them to Jing Country at thirty taels per horse." Xiao Yunzhou smiled. The fine steeds of Jing Country also cost at least thirty taels. The expense reports for horse breeding that the Ministry of War usually submitted were even higher than this price. He was about to nod in agreement when he heard a soft whine from the little Princess Wei Zheng, nestled in his arm. [The Wu Yun envoys'' favorability toward you has not reached the highest level for ''offering the lowest price'' in negotiations.] Xiao Yunzhou suddenly came to his senses. [In the novel, Chu State paid thirty thousand taels for one thousand superior warhorses.] [Half a yearter, they dispatched cavalry to seize our grain from the people of Jing Country.] [Because they had paid too much!] Xiao Yunzhou red at the two Wu Yun envoys, whose mouths were dripping with ttery, as if he, the emperor, was truly their revered deity. Yet, their quoted price was outrageous!? Had the nomads be so deceitful these days? Little Xiao Chuchu sighed in her swaddling clothes, [After the Emperor of Chu State bought a thousand warhorses, there were reports from their spies in Wu Yun.] [Generations of horse breeders in Wu Yun have raised these superior horses to adulthood at a cost of eight to ten taels.] "Ahem..." Xiao Yunzhou coughed violently, staring at the Wu Yun envoys in disbelief. They had tripled the price and imed it was the cost! Wu Yun was too devious! [Those who y politics truly have dirty minds!] [Diplomacy with neighboring countries must involve scheming. If the emperor father believed them, he would fall into a great trap.] Xiao Yunzhou: "..." [Including transportation losses andbor, Wu Yun''s true desired price for a thousand warhorses was twenty thousand taels.] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered, and he immediately stood up, looking down at the envoys with an imposing presence. "We have sensed your sincerity." "But We feel that thirty thousand taels for one thousand superior warhorses is too much." The Wu Yun envoys gaped in surprise, "Your Majesty of Jing Country, breeding these precious horses is no easy feat. Ten years ago, when we traded horses, the price was already twenty-five taels per horse..." Now, with the new warhorses being even better than before, a price increase was justified. Even the Minister of Revenue of Jing Country secretly gestured to Chancellor Fu Cha. "Indeed, Your Majesty, in the past when we purchased horses, the price was¡ª" the Vice Minister of Revenue was about to speak up as well, frowning. Xiao Yunzhou shot him a re, raising his hand to stop him. Leaning forward, he looked at the Wu Yun envoys. "We have treated Wu Yun with courtesy, as We hope to establish border markets and foster a harmonious life for the people of our two countries in the years toe." "The trade of warhorses is but a small part of our mutual market." Xiao Yunzhou raised his head, looking at the Wu Yun envoys with earnestness and pressure. "You should know that what We desire is not a single transaction!" "But the future of Jing Country and Wu Yun for the next ten, a hundred years and beyond!" The Wu Yun envoy opened his mouth. *Ding!* The Wu Yun envoy''s favorability towards the Emperor of Jing Country decreased. *Ding!* The Wu Yun envoy''s favorability towards the Emperor of Jing Country decreased to Level 1! Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened, her little face flushed red. How could this be? But in the next moment, she saw her system notifications explode. *Ding!* The Wu Yun envoy''s respect for the Emperor of Jing Country increased! *Ding!* The Wu Yun envoy''s respect for the Emperor of Jing Country increased to Level 4: ''I am willing to offer a low price to retain this customer''! Xiao Chuchu''s heart bloomed with excitement. [Woo! The envoy''s favorability decreased, but their respect for the emperor father skyrocketed!] Xiao Yunzhou red at the Wu Yun envoys, his heart pounding as he pricked up his ears in trepidation. In the blink of an eye, as expected, the two envoys drinking behind the table indeed stood up again. This time, they directly picked up the wine jug on the table and filled their golden cups, then drank them in one gulp while facing Xiao Yunzhou. "Thank you for your sincerity." "We did not expect that you would truly be willing to open mutual trade with our grasnds." "In winter weck grain, and if Jing Country is willing to permanently open the border granaries for trade with us, the price of our Wu Yun warhorses can be further reduced for Jing Country." After drinking one full cup, the two envoys refilled and refilled again! In one breath, they drank three full cups while facing the emperor Xiao Yunzhou, to show their respect. "We Wu Yun can swear to heaven." "If Jing Country treats us Wu Yun as brothers." "Wu Yun will surely treat Jing Country as family!" "Five fingers on one hand, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, but standing together and never abandoning one another!" The officials of Jing Country were speechless, unable to find their own voices. [Aowoo, for the Wu Yun, grain is the most scarce thing on the grasnds in winter, it is their lifeline!] [The quicker my imperial father agrees to mutual trade, the more grateful they will be to Jing Country!] [Hahaha, this time they are truly sincere!] Xiao Yunzhou''s heart skipped a beat. Whether to open mutual trade, he had only been bluffing earlier. In fact, he was still weighing the decision. He had been thinking that after buying the warhorses, he could still drag out the mutual trade. And then decideter. But Xiao Chuchu blinked happily in Wei Zheng''s embrace, [Imperial father has been getting better at handling affairstely. Closing the country and isting ourselves is ultimately not the way.] Xiao Yunzhou froze with the wine cup in his hand, his expression suddenly stiffened. Closing the country and isting ourselves is not the way? But from the time of his imperial grandfather, mutual trade had already been prohibited, and even Jing Country''s maritime domains were closed... [As imperial father said before, while Jing Country is developing, other nations are also developing.] [We canplement each other''s strengths and weaknesses, and only then will we be better and better.] Xiao Chuchu reflected. [Closing ourselves off and relying solely on our own efforts will only lead to stagnation in all areas of handicrafts, military, technology, andmerce.] [Moreover, the cirction of silver in Jing Country is decreasing, with themon people hoarding their silver at home instead of spending it. We still need to find a way to allow silver from outside of Jing Country to flow into our country!] Xiao Yunzhou stared wide-eyed. [The history I have read from the modern era shows that closing the country and isting ourselves has never ended well, and we will slowly be left behind by the times!] Horror filled Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes as he took a deep breath. The histories of various nations that he saw in the immortal realm all showed that closing the country did not work? He coughed lightly and looked towards the two envoys, immediately raising his wine cup and drinking it down. "Excellent!" "Then I shall not beat around the bush with you." "When you return in the morning, list out the goods you wish to trade, and I will also have the Ministry of Revenue list out the items from the grasnds that Jing Country needs." Xiao Yunzhou did not trust his officials, but he trusted the words of the immortal. After all, the prophecies from the immortal realm had never been wrong. Xiao Yunzhou nodded as he thought this, "Once both sides have negotiated, we can sign the terms and open mutual trade." The two envoys were overjoyed, "Thank you, Your Majesty of Jing Country!" But Xiao Yunzhou quickly set down his wine cup and said to them, "I am extending this sincere gesture, and I hope you will also offer equal faith and righteousness." "Top-grade warhorses, one thousand head, twenty thousand taels of silver." "One fixed price." The joy on the faces of the two envoys suddenly froze. Fear and trepidation filled their eyes! How did the emperor of Jing Country know... the lowest price for warhorses that they had discussed with the Khan before setting out? Chapter 71 Chapter 71 [Ding, the ambassador from the Wu Yun Country reached the highest level of reverence, LV5 ''willing to offer the lowest price'', in negotiations with the emperor of the Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu burst intoughter upon seeing this. The two ambassadors from Wu Yun were currently seated at the dining table, unable to stand up. Their faces were filled with terror and regret. The emperor of Jing had suddenly revealed the bottom-line price for war horses that they had discussed with the Khan back in Wu Yun. This... was too terrifying! Had Jing Country already nted spies inside the Khan''s royal tent? The ambassadors from Wu Yun turned red and pale, with cold sweat beading on their foreheads. On that day when they discussed the price of war horses with the Khan, only the two of them and the Khan were present. There was no fourth person! And the two ambassadors had been together, eating and sleeping on the journey, so how could they have leaked information to Jing Country? How did the emperor of Jing find out? The ambassadors from Wu Yun stared in horror at Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou raised his cup cordially towards them, "Servants, I''ve heard that Wu Yun favors strong liquor. Serve the ambassadors the most potent brew." The hands of the two ambassadors from Wu Yun began to tremble. Jing Country... was not to be trifled with! This emperor was too clever! Previously, they had heard that the emperor of Jing liked to farm and walk with his ministers, and had his son work in the kitchen, implying hecked ambition! Now they realized they were gravely mistaken! This emperor was wise beyond measure! The two ambassadors from Wu Yun exchanged a nce, seeing the lingering fear in each other''s eyes. This was too dangerous. Earlier, they had quoted a price of thirty taels per war horse, overcharging by ten taels, and the emperor of Jing was undoubtedly angered. But he did not expose them publicly, instead engaging them in friendly conversation. After lulling them intocency, he directly pressed them for the lowest price! This emperor was truly formidable! "We will make a list upon our return tomorrow," the two ambassadors from Wu Yun no longer dared to employ tricks or tactics they had learned from Chinese military strategies of concealing the real and appearing unreal. This person was too clever, they could not possibly outmaneuver him! The ambassadors from Wu Yun wiped their sweat, ready to drink as self-punishment and take their leave. However, Xiao Yunzhou pricked up his ears and heard the thoughts of his beloved daughter. [Oh, let me check what status these two ambassadors hold in Wu Yun.] Xiao Chuchu was one who loved gossip and wanted to know everything about everyone. Xiao Yunzhou listened with interest, his eyes sparkling. Xiao Chuchu exchanged points for system information, and upon seeing it, sheughed: [Oh wow, one of them is the sworn brother of the current Khan of Wu Yun, and the other is the son of the Khan''s wet nurse!] [How impressive, my father has earned the reverence of these two lords of Wu Yun!] [The emperor, my father, has utterly awed them!] Xiao Chuchu almostughed out loud in Wei Zhenghuai''s embrace. Xiao Yunzhou nearly spat out his wine inughter as well. His beloved daughter never failed to amuse him with her mischievous thoughts, making him want tough every day. But Xiao Yunzhou quickly suppressed his smile, not letting himself becent. He looked with interest towards the fatmbs on the throne¡ªthese two ambassadors who were the Khan of Wu Yun''s closest brothers. If he did not tease them a little, he would not live up to his daughter''s wise insights. "With your ambassadors being so forting, I shall treat you as brothers," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, shamelessly extending his hand. "Let me introduce you to some of my sons." Thereupon, a line of princes stood up and nodded cordially towards the ambassadors. The two ambassadors from Wu Yun were particrly struck when they noticed the white jade adorning the waist of the fifth prince, Cheng Qian. The white jade of Wu Yun was only bestowed upon the most revered individuals. And among the seven princes of Jing Country, from eldest to youngest, only the fifth prince Cheng Qian wore white jade! The others wore gold-iid jade, emeralds, and other precious stones. Instantly, the ambassadors from Wu Yun held Prince Cheng Qian in high regard. "We have brought some gifts on this visit," the ambassadors received a treasure chest from their attendants. "Please ept them, princes." After presenting a heavy wooden bow to the crown prince, they took out an exquisite dagger iid with white jade from the treasure chest. They respectfully handed it to Prince Cheng Qian. "The fifth prince of Jing Country, this dagger matches perfectly with the white jade at your waist, so we present it to you." [Awoo, white jade is supreme!] Xiao Chuchu could not help but apud her brother. [The ambassadors are paying special respect to my brother! They value him!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. The son he had taken note of, Cheng Qian, was not just another ordinary prince, as even the neighboring country could see? As Xiao Yunzhou looked towards his fifth son Cheng Qian, he found that the prince received the ambassadors'' gifts with poise, neither humble nor arrogant, maintaining propriety without losing face. Xiao Yunzhou nodded in approval. Five dayster. A thousand war horses from Wu Yun arrived within the borders of Jing Country, and Xiao Yunzhou used grain and flour to offset part of the silver cost, spending less than ten thousand taels in total. The ministers of the Ministry of Revenue and Ministry of War wore beaming smiles for several days. When the ambassadors from Wu Yun departed, Xiao Yunzhou dispatched his son Prince Cheng Qian to see them off. Seeing the white jade at Cheng Qian''s waist, the ambassadors from Wu Yun felt they had received the highest honor from the royal family of Jing Country and left with great satisfaction. [The goodwill of the ambassadors from Wu Yun towards Jing Country has increased!] [Hehe, they think the emperor, my father, sent the most outstanding and revered prince to see them off.] [Much more courteous than the neighboring Chu State!] Xiao Chuchuughed as she watched the live broadcast in Xiao Yunzhou''s embrace. Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou grew even more impressed with his fifth son Cheng Qian. He did not expect that at such a young age, his son could receive foreign ambassadors better than the ministers of the Ministry of Rites! [Oh, I can draw a lottery again?] Xiao Chuchu eximed in surprise, instantly filling Xiao Yunzhou with delight. His daughter could draw a lottery from the immortal realm? In the pce of Chu State, the Chu king was furious. "Didn''t you tell me that Wu Yun Country would definitely not trade with Jing Country and woulde to my Chu State instead?" "You told me to wait?" "Wait for what!" "Servants, dispatch ambassadors to Wu Yun, I want to procure war horses!" "Jing Country purchased the first batch of a thousand, I will purchase three thousand!" The ambassadors of Chu State set out swiftly. In just a few days, the Khan of Wu Yun received the envoys from Chu State in his royal tent. However, after the meal, the two lords who were the Khan''s closest brothers, Er Si and Er Xi, who had just returned from Jing Country, offered words of advice. "My Khan, the emperor of Jing Country is extraordinary, extremely intelligent." "Far superior to the emperor of Chu State!" The Khan frowned, "Is this true? I have heard that Xiao Yunzhou of Jing Country is obsessed with cultivating the Dao." "It''s false!" The two envoys acted as if facing a formidable enemy. "The people of the Central ins are cunning. Xiao Yunzhou must be pretending." "He never leaves the pce, yet he knows about affairs across the realm!" "Your Majesty, it''s best we don''t antagonize the Jing Country." "!!!" Khan Wu Yun gaped in astonishment. He had originally intended to form an alliance with the Chu State to support them against their enemy, the Jing Country! That was a close call! "Let the people from the Chu State return. Tell them our winter provisions are insufficient this year, and we''ll discuss acquiring warhorses next year." * Xiao Yunzhou held his daughter, ying with her, unaware of the events unfolding on the distant grasnds and the Chu State''s brewing military actions. Yet at that moment, as he listened to his daughter''s thoughts, his expression shifted, his emotions rising and falling. ["Oh my, I obtained two SSR skill books!"] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up! Another heaven-sent wonder like the gue cure!? As the emperor, he could once again stand before the officials and set an example, teaching them how to benefit themon people? Xiao Yunzhou listened eagerly, brimming with excitement. But the next moment, the tea Wei Zhenghuai had brought was sprayed from Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth. ["''Postpartum Care for Sows and Crossbreeding Techniques for Pigs''"] ["''Techniques for Artificial Incubation and Rapid Rearing of Ducklings''"] ["Oh wow, how practical."] "!!" Xiao Yunzhou''s vision went ck. As the emperor, how could he exin this to the officials! "Your Majesty, you... have insights about sows?!" Chapter 72 Chapter 72 Upon learning new skills of postnatal sow care and pig crossbreeding technology in different regions, Xiao Chuchu started to chatter. "The pigs in our future world grow quickly and heavily." "The pigs in Jing Country are naturally raised without hormones, but the mortality rate is high. If scientific breeding methods can be applied, we can not only improve the taste of pork but also increase pork production!" "Perhaps, Jing Country will have a unique industry chain¡ªpork!" "Cough, cough, cough!" Xiao Yunzhou choked. Tears welled up in his eyes due to the coughing. It couldn''t be, really couldn''t be. His vast Jing Country, was it necessary to resort to this? But when Xiao Chuchu thought of the taste of pork and roast duck, she drooled a bit. Her mouth opened slightly, and she began to drool. Xiao Yunzhou nced at her and was captivated by his adorable daughter. However, as an emperor, studying water disasters and gue remedies was considered caring for the country and the people. Researching postnatal care for sows, what was this all about! And artificial egg hatching... how was he supposed to exin this to his ministers! "Ah, themon people nowadays, it''s hard to raise a pig in their homes. They are prone to get sick, and in the end, they lose both their wealth and their pig. It''s so pitiful." Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes and let out a long sigh. Ah, when the people are poor, Jing Country will not be prosperous. He wanted to give the people a good life! Xiao Yunzhou was about to call someone, his face pale, but soon Wei Zheng came to report. "Your Majesty, Imperial Censor Hong Xing requests an audience. He asks when the Prince''s vegetable washing experience will be consideredplete." Xiao Yunzhou''s brow suddenly rxed. Hong Xing, the Queen''s man? These selfish factionalists, enjoying the court''s sries and the people''s food, only knew how to scheme for the Queen and the Crown Prince! In the end, they were just out for their own interests! "Let him in." Xiao Yunzhou sneered. These people were not as considerate of the public as he, the emperor! "Subject Hong Xing pays respects to Your Majesty." As Xiao Yunzhou¡¯s gaze flickered, Imperial Censor Hong Xing entered and knelt immediately. Without dy, Xiao Yunzhou helped him up with a smile. His peripheral vision nced at the pig-raising techniques recorded on his desk after listening to his beloved daughter. Xiao Yunzhou then addressed Hong Xing first. "Hong, my beloved courtier, I was looking for you." Hong Xing was taken aback. Xiao Yunzhou put his hands behind his back, "As an Imperial Censor, you supervise the officials. Do you know what the people of Jing Country have been eatingtely?" Hong Xing was dumbfounded, what did he mean? Xiao Yunzhou raised his head, "I heard from the Imperial Guards that ordinary farming households can''t even afford a thin slice of meat for a meal. I was heartbroken upon hearing this, tossing and turning in my sleep!" Hong Xing twitched the corner of his eye. Why was the emperor bringing up this issue! Since the founding of Jing Country, it wasmonce for farmers toin about theck of meat and for peasants to be less wealthy than the townsfolk! Hong Xing frowned, "Your Majesty, do you mean¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou solemnly said, "I feel that some county magistrates and prefects are negligent in their everyday duties and do not care enough about the people''s livelihood." "Hong, my beloved courtier, from today onwards, I appoint you as the Pig-Raising Inspector." What? Hong Xing was dumbfounded and looked up in disbelief. What inspector? What was the emperor bestowing upon him? Xiao Yunzhou turned around, looking at him with a subtle smile. "I''m giving you three days. Visit the farmers ande back with a solution to increase the pork production and ensure every farmer can afford meat." "???" Hong Xing felt like he should have consulted the almanac before stepping out today! Has the emperor gone mad, or has he lost his senses, or is it just his ears ying tricks? "Your Majesty, I am an Imperial Censor..." "Correct, an Imperial Censor who oversees all officials and speaks for the people. Now that the people cannot afford meat, shouldn''t you figure out why?" "Come up with a solution!?" Hong Xing''s vision went ck. "I''m only giving you three days, after all, the New Year is fast approaching. I can wait, but the people cannot!" "s¡ªwhy has Master Hong fainted!" Wei Zheng''s panicked voice rang out. Xiao Yunzhou turned around and chuckled, his eyes narrowed. "Send Master Hong directly to the farm to study the pork issue." [My goodness! I just received a manual on postpartum care for sows, and the emperor is already having people research pork?] Xiao Chuchu was so shocked that she even forgot to eat her melon in Wei Zheng''s arms. Xiao Yunzhou''s smile stiffened on his face. This is bad! Is his daughter about to discover that he can hear her inner thoughts? He was too careless! If he had known, he should have had Wei Zheng carry her into the warm pavilion sooner. Xiao Chuchu''s delicate little face was all scrunched up in thought. Xiao Yunzhou''s heart ached at the sight. It was all that damned Hong Xing''s fault, the Queen''s party! He was so angry just now that he only focused on causing headaches for the Queen''s party, doing some good for themon people. Hepletely forgot about his daughter on the side. Xiao Yunzhou felt his heart crumple along with his daughter''s little eyebrows. He gently wrapped one arm around her swaddling clothes, and with the other hand, he tried to smooth out her eyebrows. "Wei Zheng, you did well...st night... you brought that little eunuch who has been farming for three generations and still cannot afford a piece of meat to serve in my study." Xiao Yunzhou quickly improvised. Xiao Chuchu''s furrowed eyebrows rxed at the sound of his words. Her wet, ck eyes turned to look at the respectful Wei Zheng, and they sparkled. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat, "Thanks to your quick thinking, Wei Zheng, I remembered to address the issue of themon people''s meat consumption today." Wei Zheng opened his mouth. Huh? Xiao Yunzhou walked over and lightly kicked him, "Are you too happy to move? Look at your worthless expression! Don''t just stand there, go and collect your reward!" Huh? Ah! Wei Zheng was confused, but he had been serving Xiao Yunzhou since he was young. He quickly knelt down, "Thank you, Your Majesty!" "I didn''t think this through, all credit goes to Your Majesty''s wisdom!" Xiao Chuchu let out a sound of realization and waspletely reassured. [So that''s how it is.] [It seems that whatever I draw from this lottery pool will manifest in reality in a way that conforms to this world.] [Just like the gue remedy before, as soon as I drew it, the Imperial Hospital coincidentally developed it.] Xiao Yunzhou heaved a sigh of relief when he heard this. His back was covered in cold sweat. "My precious princess, you should sleep now~ Daddy will sing you a luby~ okay?" Xiao Chuchu slowly closed her eyes, sweetly falling asleep. * When Hong Xing left the pce after being assigned the task of investigating why themon people could not afford pork, his steps were heavier than ever. What the hell, who can solve this? Since ancient times, the people have been divided into rich and poor, noble and lowly. Everyone can afford meat, in their dreams! The emperor is deliberately messing with him! Hong Xing is suffering in silence. When he returned home, he called over a group of officials from the Empress''s faction to discuss. "The Emperor is probably nning something against the Empress and the Crown Prince." The entire study room was taken aback. "Why would the Emperor do this? What did he say to you today?" Hong Xing shook his head in despair, looking at the officials. "Gentlemen, we only have three days." "Whether the power of the Empress and the Crown Prince can remain unscathed depends on these three days." The officials immediately looked up anxiously, "Is the Emperor nning to thoroughly investigate Lord Tong''s academy?" "Did the Emperor find out that the Tong Family is involved in the private salt trade?" "Is the Emperor going to audit the ounts of the Ministry of Revenue?" Hong Xing twitched at the corner of his mouth, "No!" Facing everyone''s gaze, Hong Xing took a deep breath, "It''s even more troublesome." "?" "The Emperor has tasked us with handling pigs." "???" "..." "What?" "Gentlemen, in three days, if themon people cannot eat pork, I''m afraid you and I will have to go home and raise pigs soon!" "!!!" Chapter 73 Chapter 73 After two days, Xiao Yunzhou personally praised Concubine Liu''s skill in sewing winter clothes and went to the small courtyard where the female workers did their sewing to reward the outstanding ones. Everyone was thrilled and knelt down to express their gratitude for the Emperor''s benevolence. "Rise," said Xiao Yunzhou, helping Concubine Liu up as she was about to kneel, and patting her hand. "You''ve worked hard these days. Sending these winter clothes will allow the suffering people afflicted by the gue to use them first." He looked at the needle-pricked fingers of Concubine Liu and felt even more indebted to her. If not for the Little Princess''s thoughts that only he as the Emperor could hear, Concubine Liu would not have injured her hands. Even for minor incidents like Liu the Elder falling or hot tea spilling, the Little Princess would gasp in warning through her thoughts. s, ordinary people were not blessed enough to experience such celestial alerts. s. Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou sympathetically pointed at Concubine Liu''s hands, "Have the imperial physicians send some medicinal ointmentter so it heals faster." Concubine Liu rose, unaware of the Emperor''s thoughts, otherwise she might haveughed out loud. She was about to turn and ask Qiuli to prepare well water so the Emperor could boil tea himselfter, but Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand to stop her. "My presence here is impeding the workers'' progress." "Concubine Liu, apany me to your family''s courtyard to see your father." Concubine Liu was taken aback. A glint shed in Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes as he ordered the wet nurse to bring the infant Xiao Chuchu along in the carriage. "I happen to have some matters concerning themon people to discuss with your father and elder brother." [Huh?] Even the infant Xiao Chuchu in the wet nurse''s arms was surprised, but soon became delighted. [Yay, I get to go to my grandparents'' ce again? How wonderful, I do miss my grandfather a little. Last time I stayed too briefly and didn''t get a good look at my uncle.] [My uncle must have finished making those little firework toys he was developing. I want to y with them~] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered. After boarding the carriage, he closed his eyes to rest, silently recalling another ''treasure'' skill book the Little Princess had mentioned that day. ¡ª ''Artificial Incubation of Duck Eggs and Rapid Duck Rearing Techniques'' "Your Majesty, we have arrived," said Wei Zheng, interrupting the Emperor''s thoughts. Xiao Yunzhou opened his eyes and before disembarking, he saw a row of people from the Liu Family standing at the entrance of their small courtyard. Leading them was Liu the Elder, whose ancestors were vige farmers, and who himself had ample experience in rural survival. By his side was the beaming Old Madam of the Liu Family, vigorous in her movements. She was educated but also grew up feeding chickens in the vige. Half a step behind them was their eldest son, Liu Runnian, dressed in a schr''s robe, yet disliking study and fond of tinkering with small inventions. When not at home, he would help his father farm and his mother raise the courtyard chickens. "Your subject pays respects to Your Majesty¡ª" "This student, Liu Runnian, pays respects to Your Majesty..." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered, and as the Liu Family members were about to kneel, he swiftly helped them up. "No need for such formalities." Liu the Elder''s face flushed red. The Emperor increasingly valued their Liu Family these days! Apart from their treasured granddaughter''s celestial advice, it was also due to his own efforts! He served diligently in the Ministry of Personnel, putting his heart and soul into his work! His efforts had indeed not gone unnoticed, as the Emperor clearly saw them! "Your Majesty, this subject is unworthy of Your noble presence gracing our humble abode!" Liu the Elder was touched. Then he saw Xiao Yunzhou walk past him after helping him up, going to his eldest son Liu Runnian behind him and helping him up as well. He heard the Emperor address this unaplished, yful, unfilial son in a warm tone. "Liu Runnian, in fact, I havee specifically to see you today." "???" Liu the Elder''s mouth gaped open. What? What was this about? Liu Runnian, dressed in a schr''s robe with a fairplexion and tall stature, also looked utterly bewildered at the Emperor holding his hand in an overly friendly manner! "Runnian," Xiao Yunzhou patted his shoulder. Liu Runnian: "!" What was going on? Why was the Emperor addressing him like a brother? He hadn''t even taken the imperial examinations, let alone be a ranked schr! But Xiao Yunzhou nced at the also wide-eyed infant Xiao Chuchu in the wet nurse''s arms and chuckled. Turning to the grown man before him, "Themander of My imperial guards mentioned seeing some new novelties on the streets a few days ago and wanted to share them with Me." Liu Runnian''s hands trembled. Liu the Elder coughed lightly. Xiao Yunzhou patted Liu Runnian''s shoulder. "I didn''t expect Old Master Liu to have raised such a talented and innovative son with remarkable hands-on abilities." Liu the Elder: "???" Those useless fireworks that could barely form words? Those fireworks served no purpose! That day when he heard the Little Princess''s thoughts saying his eldest son neglected his studies and spent all day in the study room fiddling with things, he had disciplined the boy, making him kneel before the ancestral tablets to repent! Yet Xiao Yunzhou actually took an interest in those worthless ythings? Liu the Elder''s mouth twitched. Concubine Liu and the Old Madam of the Liu Family also lowered their heads, coughing lightly to suppress theirughter. Meanwhile, Xiao Yunzhou patted Liu Runnian''s shoulder, feeling the man''s muscr and sturdy build, unlike ordinary schrs. He was the perfect candidate for developing artificial duck egg incubation and duck rearing techniques! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. "Come, let''s go inside. I have something to ask you." Xiao Yunzhou was remarkably amiable towards Liu Runnian. For he had pondered for two nights, and apart from capturing that scapegoat Hongxing to increase pork production, he had no other candidates for developing duck eggs. How could he discreetly guide the research without exposing the Little Princess''s thoughts? Xiao Yunzhou was deeply troubled. But yesterday, when he saw Concubine Liu, he had an idea! Liu Runnian was a talented researcher of techniques, even more intelligent than Concubine Liu who had invented the silk spinning machine! If he, the Emperor, subtly hinted at the secrets revealed by the Little Princess, Liu Runnian would most likely be able to develop the artificial incubation method! Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou grew excited, instructing Wei Zheng to fetch stools. "Come, be seated." "The matter is this. Yesterday when I was strolling by the Imperial Kitchen, I overheard the cooksining that the consecutive floods this year had devastated many vige chickens and ducks, resulting in an exceptionally high price for duck meat in the capital''s markets. Even the kitchen staff could not afford duck for their New Year celebrations!" Huh? Liu Runnian had just sat down but was bewildered. What? What did the Emperor mean? It was true that the pce cooks could not afford duck meat, and his Liu Family hadn''t eaten duck for a long time either due to the floods. The cmities indeed harmed the people! But... then what? Liu Runnian fidgeted, about to stand up. His knowledge of the Four Books and Five ssics was merely superficial, like embroidery on a pillow or a bundle of straw - likely to be forgotten once he passed the provincial examination. This year''s imperial examinations were clearly beyond his abilities. The Emperor hoped that Liu Runnian would excel in the Imperial Examination, and then send him to handle flood relief efforts, but that was clearly impossible! Liu Runnian felt distressed at once. s, he regretted not studying hard enough when he had the chance. "Your Majesty, you care so much for the people, I... I... oh!" He truly regretted it. He wished he had studied diligently. "Hmph!" Old Liu the Elder became angry seeing his behavior, especially after recalling what his granddaughter Xiao Chuchu had said about Liu Runnian''sck of ambition. "Your Majesty, my unfilial son Runnian cannot be counted on for serious matters!" "He is just yful at heart!" "If the Imperial Kitchen needs a cook, you might as well summon him!" Liu Runnian sighed and lowered his head. Concubine Liu and the Old Madam of the Liu Family could not help but worry, but before they could speak to dissuade him, an adorable cooing sound was heard. [What,cking ducks?] [How fortuitous! I happen to have artificial incubation and duck rearing techniques that can increase duck meat yield and production~] The entire Liu Family was astonished. Xiao Chuchu babbled on, [I know, incubating eggs in earthen jars or heated brick beds, using coal to regte the temperature...] Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up then, and he turned to Liu Runnian with a solemn expression. "Runnian, I''ve observed that your fireworks are quite well-made." "You are very clever. Look, regarding the incubation of these ducks, do you have any ideas for improvement?" "...!" The members of the Liu Family all lowered their heads in astonishment. Liu Runnian opened his mouth, then closed it, mustering all his strength to avoid looking at the wet nurse holding his niece! Chapter 74 Chapter 74 [s, if there is no kang bed heater, using barrels and grain piles will work too, and hot roasted grains can be used as a heat source for incubating eggs~] Xiao Chuchu was still in the wet nurse''s arms, checking the skill book in her mind. She read books, always unable to resist murmuring each word and sentence in her heart. Because this way, her memory would be more profound. But now, her word-by-word murmurs were as clear as the spring rain, falling into Liu Runnian''s mind! Liu Runnian took a deep breath and looked at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou with a stiff neck. "Student..." He could not speakplete words for a moment. Thest time the Emperor brought Little Princess to the Liu family, it was the first time this uncle heard the fairy-like thoughts of Little Princess. At that time, he was already frightened. He didn''t even know how to swallow his meal, luckily the Emperor was also absent-minded that day and didn''t pay much attention to him. After the Emperor and his sister left, his parents finally told him the horrifying news. ¡ªHis Liu family would all die! ¡ªJing Country would perish! ¡ªAll of the above were said in the thoughts of Little Princess, the reincarnation of a Fairy! And he, Liu Runnian, could also hear Little Princess''s thoughts! With great difficulty, Liu Runnian finally digested this matter, but today he heard his little niece softly murmuring in her heart again, and he was so overwhelmed that his heart almost melted. "Student, student..." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou smiled and patted his arm forcefully, "Runnian, I know you''re excited. In the past, no student who has not yet achieved fame has received my favor." "You are the first, it''s normal to be so excited that you can''t speak." "..." The Liu family members all lowered their heads and looked at their own feet. Liu Runnian''s face turned red, and he squeezed out a word, "Uh-huh!" "Alright, be a man and don''t be nervous." Xiao Yunzhouughed. Liu Runnian cleared his throat, "The student is not nervous." He was nervous not because of Your Majesty, but because his precious niece''s soft and cute thoughts were so adorable that they made his face flush! "Runnian," Xiao Yunzhou didn''t have much time to stay outside, so he quickly got to the point, "Have you ever seen hens and ducks incubating eggs before?" Liu Runnian nodded. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, "I have also seen them, those hens and ducks hiding their ownid eggs under their bodies to incubate them, keeping them warm." "After a while, the eggs will hatch." "So I was wondering, if wemoners could also master the temperature that hens and ducks use to incubate eggs, would it be possible to artificially incubate eggs and breed chicks and ducklings on arge scale?" [Woo! Oh my god!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but exim, [Emperor Dad really has an 88 IQ, he found the key point right away!] Xiao Yunzhou smiled, "I thought of this, but with the myriad affairs of state, I had no time to practice it." "But Runnian, you are skilled in handicrafts." "I came here today to specifically teach you this idea I happened upon. Runnian, do you think you can make it work?" Liu Runnian opened his mouth, his ears filled with his niece''s chirping thoughts, and looked at the Emperor, barely able to resist saying the obvious truth. What''s so difficult about this!? ording to his niece, all he needed to do was find a kang bed heater, get some stir-fried grains! As long as he could experiment to find the right temperature, and control the stable temperature using firewood and grains, then... what''s the problem? This was too simple! His niece had already told him the answer! Liu Runnian''s heart surged, how could he have never thought of such an interesting idea before? "The student is willing to try!" Liu Runnian''s voice boomed, and he was about to kneel. But he was quickly helped up by Xiao Yunzhou. "Also, have you thought about how to shorten the growth time of ducks?" Xiao Yunzhou asked another question. [Oh, this is the force-feeding technique, isn''t it?] [How convenient, I know about it too!] Xiao Chuchu chirped excitedly again. [Use cooked rice, salt flowers, and form it into date pit shapes, then feed them to the ducks.] [This way, each duck''s meat can quickly gain more than two pounds in about ten days~] What?! The Liu family members'' gazes on the ground were shaken. Liu Runnian even gasped. Could they gain that much weight? An ordinary duck only weighs three or four pounds, but with this rapid feeding method, they could directly gain two pounds, reaching five or six pounds? That''s a lot more meat! And the speed was so fast, it took only ten days to gain that much meat! Was this force-feeding method from the Fairy realm? Liu Runnian listened with shining eyes, eager to immediately try it ording to his precious Little Princess''s words! But he couldn''t leave. The Xiao Yunzhou in front of him was still pondering and pretending, "Runnian, I do have a little idea that I hope can inspire you." "Children grow slowly, definitely because they don''t eat enough." "What do you think, are ducks the same as humans? How about it, is this little inspiration of mine useful to you?" "..." In the silence of the room, Liu Runnian raised his head and looked at the Emperor in front of him¡ªthis shameless Emperor. His parents had told him after the Emperor''s previous visit that the Emperor could also hear Little Princess''s thoughts. Xiao Yunzhou must have eavesdropped on Little Princess''s thoughts about the Fairy method of raising ducks, which was how he knew about the force-feeding strategy! Saying it was his own little idea... and inspiring Liu Runnian himself? How shameless! Liu Runnian''s eyes twitched, barely able to resist looking at Xiao Yunzhou''s thick face. He nodded with difficulty, "It seems... to make some sense, Your Majesty... wise insight." Xiao Yunzhou immediately smiled, "It''s good if it can enlighten you. Runnian, I''ll leave this matter to you then." Xiao Yunzhou had calcted very carefully. The Liu family was quite intelligent, and even the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian had decent intelligence. Anyway, just let them figure it out. If they really couldn''t figure it out, he, the Emperor, would reluctantly give them another ''little idea to guide them'' again! Xiao Yunzhou pretentiously tossed out the duck issue, very pleased, and stood up. "Alright, this was the purpose of my visit. There are still many state affairs waiting for me in the pce, so I shall return first." The Liu family hurriedly tried to see him off. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "Focus on your research and give me a reply as soon as possible." He boarded the pnquin, and only then did the Liu family members look at each other in bewilderment. Give a reply as soon as possible? How soon? "I feel that I may be able to figure it out within three days," Liu Runnian took a deep breath. Since they already knew the answer, failing toe up with it would make them utter fools! The old Madam Liu nodded heavily, "I''ll go prepare the kang bed heater and grains." "Oh my, how clever I am, to have thought of a method so quickly." "All thanks to Your Majesty''s guidance today!" "..." Liu Runnian raised his hand to cover his eyes. * The three-day deadline for the pork issue had arrived. Hong Xing, with dark circles under his eyes, finally came with two county magistrates and assistants of the Imperial Censor to report back to Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. "Your Majesty, this minister has visited many viges. Apart from the issue of poor harvests leading to insufficient ie for farmers and heavy taxes, there is another major problem--" "Sows are dying inrge numbers after giving birth." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, and he immediately turned around. Here ites! The bluffing--no, the ''Postpartum Care Manual for Sows'' that Little Princess told him could improve the lives of the people was finally about to be unveiled! "Oh? Can you think of a way to solve this?" Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes at Hong Xing. Hong Xing''s mouth twitched, "This minister is still studying it, Your Majesty, the time has been too short--" "Ipetent!" Xiao Yunzhou mmed the table. "Three days is still not enough time?" "And you bathe only once every five days, how is that not enough time?" Hong Xing''s brows furrowed as he trembled, the Emperor truly was unreasonable! Is there no justice left in this world? Tyrant! "Your Majesty, this minister has read the books of sages, but none of them mention how to ensure sows give birth safely!" "You dare talk back?" Xiao Yunzhou mmed the table repeatedly. "In the time it took you to speak those two sentences, I''ve already figured out how to care for the sows!" Hong Xing: "??" What? Hong Xing looked up in disbelief. Chapter 75 Chapter 75 "I can devise a solution after listening to you for just a few sentences," said Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, folding his arms behind his back and tilting his head up at a 45-degree angle. Hong Xing opened his mouth and looked towards the Emperor, bathed in sunlight from the waist up, his face stern and daunting. Hong Xing had a vague sense that something was amiss, but couldn''t quite put his finger on it. Before he could ponder further, the Emperor spoke again, "I havee up with a way to address the issue of high piglet mortality." Hong Xing opened his mouth soundlessly. "High piglet mortality is reminiscent of the previous dynasty''s imperial pce, where the princes seldom survived and mostly died in infancy or grew up sickly," Xiao Yunzhou remarked solemnly, ncing at Hong Xing. Hong Xing''s jaw dropped, barely suppressing the urge to curse the Emperor''s shamelessness. Likening the former dynasty''s princes to piglets? How outrageous! What a deep-seated grudge! Hong Xing suddenly felt a chill down his spine, realizing for the first time that Xiao Yunzhou was not a good man. If he regarded the former imperial family as mere animals, how would he view disobedient officials? The thought made Hong Xing break out in a sweat. But soon, Xiao Yunzhou spoke again. "The high mortality rate of princes in the previous dynasty prompted our founding Emperor to learn from that experience. Whenever a woman in the pce became pregnant, dedicated physicians and nannies were assigned to care for her." "If any mistake urred, not only would the physicians and nannies be held ountable, but also the eunuchs attending to them." "Thus, they took their duties seriously, devising various remedies to ensure a safe pregnancy and proper nourishment for the consorts." "After the child was born, physicians would immediately examine the newborn''s pulse, and daily records were kept of how much milk they drank and how often they urinated. Any abnormality would prompt immediate investigation into the cause." Xiao Yunzhou took a sip of tea to moisten his throat and looked at Hong Xing. Hong Xing was dumbfounded. What did he mean? Was the Emperor suggesting they treat piglets like princes?! Hong Xing didn''t know what to say. If he agreed with the Emperor, would he be admitting that princes were no different from pigs? Xiao Yunzhou shot a displeased nce at the speechless Hong Xing and snorted. Still haven''t grasped the concept? Fool! "Hong Sir, if you regarded the valuable assets of the people ¨C the expectant and nursing sows ¨C as your own kin, and the precious piglets that families depend on to raise and sell for ie as your own children, wouldn''t you be able to devise a way to reduce piglet mortality?" Hong Xing''s mouth twitched violently. So the Emperor was implying that his family were pigs! He was speechless. "Hong Xing, you receive your sry from the people, you are sustained by the people, yet you ce less importance on the plight of pigs than you would your own offspring. You should be ashamed of yourself, Hong Xing!" Xiao Yunzhou mmed the table in distress. Hong Xing: "..." [Woo-hoo, Father Emperor has finally stepped up!] Within Wei Zhenghuai''s embrace, Xiao Chuchu listened with shining eyes, wholeheartedly praising her lousy father the Emperor. [Indeed, the key lies in ensuring proper nutrition and care for the sows before and after giving birth, maintaining a clean environment for them to feel safe and at ease. That way, the piglets will be healthy too.] [Also, the feed during this special period should differ from the regr diet...the amount shouldn''t be excessive...] [Father Emperor is making progress, keep it up!] Xiao Chuchu urged inwardly. [Oh, and don''t forget to watch for any post-partum inmmation in the sows to ensure the milk is healthy and that both mother and offspring are safe!] Xiao Yunzhou turned around, beaming at the fairy-like praise from his beloved daughter. He dared not forget a single word of advice from his celestial daughter, who reminded and urged him as an emperor to care for the people and the nation. He must cherish this! Xiao Yunzhou was filled with gratitude for the heavens and his daughter, ovee with emotion. But as he turned to speak, he heard his daughter exim. [Let me see how Hong Sir has been performing his duties, and why he can''t measure up to my Father Emperor''spetence.] Xiao Yunzhou, who considered himself more capable than Hong Xing, felt a surge of pride, but it quickly turned to fury. Because when Xiao Chuchu used the system to retrieve images of Hong Xing''s daily routine, she was shocked. [Well, well! It seems Hong Sir spends three out of every five days supposedly inspecting local conditions and monitoring officials, but actually sneaking off to visit his concubines!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. [Roar! He''s using the court''s transportation and travel allowances, abusing his official duties to conduct extramarital affairs! And this is his thirteenth concubine!] What? Xiao Yunzhou nearly fainted. If he remembered correctly, Hong Xing already had four or five concubines. But this shameless Hong Xing had even more mistresses! Even he, the Emperor, wasn''t so promiscuous. And Hong Xing dared to abuse his official duties? Using official carriages to visit mistresses? Xiao Yunzhou''s chest heaved with rage. And Xiao Chuchu, after witnessing Hong Xing''s daily routine, was equally outraged. [This Hong Sir''s thirteenth mistress consumes one pound of bird''s nest daily, fifty ounces of ginseng tonics, and only drinks spring water hauled back by four porters over four hours.] [Hong Sir has promised that if she bes pregnant, he will bring her into his household and double her care, allowing her to eat as much bird''s nest and ginseng as she desires.] [He will also hire four wet nurses to attend to her personally and give her the finest room in the household!] [Hong Sir, you truly know how to indulge your mistresses with the people''s resources!] [If only you devoted that energy to the people''s sows and piglets, there would be no shortage of pork!] Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but nod in agreement, ring at Hong Xing, who remained oblivious to his daughter''s innermost thoughts. Furious, but now with experience, Xiao Yunzhou said, "Wei Zheng, take the little princess back to Concubine Liu and have her look after her closely." "I have some state affairs to attend to before visiting the little princess again." Wei Zheng calmly followed the order, ustomed to such requests. But as soon as he carried the little princess away, Hong Xing, still standing in the study, was kicked to the ground by the enraged Xiao Yunzhou! "You wretched creature, lower than a pig!" the Emperor thundered. Hong Xing hit the ground hard, his head striking a pir and drawing blood. He looked up at the Emperor in disbelief. "Your Majesty¡ª" "Your subject, your subject has done nothing wrong! Your subject...acknowledges no grave offense!" "If your subject fails to understand the issue of pork supply, have the other officials grasped it any better?" "You dare talk back!" Xiao Yunzhou raged, his face flushed red. "Officials can be executed, but not insulted! Your Majesty¡ªyour subject would rather die here today, so that all under heaven may know that I, an Imperial Censor, was unjustly reviled by the Emperor over a trivial matter and chose to die honorably rather than endure such insult!" Several high-ranking ministers were waiting outside for the Emperor and Hong Xing to conclude their discussion before being summoned for an audience. At this moment, upon hearing Imperial Censor Hong Xing''s furious threats, the faces of the few elderly chancellors changed drastically! Hong Xing was an Imperial Censor. Throughout history, emperors who did not listen to advice rarely received praise. If Hong Xing were to truly dash his head against a pir and die in the emperor''s study today, then the emperor would be an even greater tyrant! "Your Majesty, Your Majesty, please calm your anger!" Chancellor Fu Cha, sweating profusely, took the lead and rushed in. Although Chancellor Fu Cha was the father of Imperial Noble Fu Cha, he was also the former teacher of Crown Prince Xiao Yunzhou. Chancellor Fu Cha did not want Xiao Yunzhou to be remembered in history as a tyrannical ruler, leaving an eternal stench. Otherwise, as the emperor''s teacher, what would he amount to? Would he not be cursed by future generations! "Your Majesty, since Wei Zheng has departed, if there is anything you need, please feel free tomand us, these old bones!" At this moment, Chancellor Fu Cha did not even feel that his old legs could not move swiftly, and he directly stood between Hong Xing and the emperor. Chancellor Fu Cha gestured earnestly toward the emperor. With Wei Zheng absent, there were only the emperor and Hong Xing in the study just now. If Hong Xing were to seek death and loudly proim that the emperor insulted and coerced him, even if the emperor jumped into the Yellow River, he could not wash himself clean. Chancellor Fu Cha took a deep breath, "Your Majesty, please calm your anger. If there is anything, can it not be discussed properly?" Hong Xing immediately found his main supporter and hurriedlyined to the great Chancellor, "Chancellor, you must uphold justice for me." "I spent ten bitter years in poverty studying the ssics of the sages." "Yet the emperor ordered me to tend to the pigsty." What? Chancellor Fu Cha nearly spat it out. Hong Xing continued hisints in one breath, "Tending to pigs is one thing, it is still for the country and the people, but the emperor only gave me three days." "The emperor is forcing me to die!" "The emperor is merely looking for an excuse¡ªif I fail, he will kick me in the heart!" "Chancellor Fu Cha, I came from the Hanlin Academy, rising one step at a time from the seventh rank to my current position, living up to the heavens and earth..." "Today the emperor has insulted me, so I will dash my head against a pir and die!" Xiao Yunzhou was so angry that he trembled andughed angrily. Pointing his finger at Hong Xing, "Very well, very well, I have insulted you." "Guards, I wish to leave the pce!" "I will now bring Chancellor Fu Cha, Chancellor Xu... and go see how the great Hong Xing has been performing his duties!" Chapter 76 Chapter 76 The Emperor waved his sleeve, allowing the guards at the gate to enter, and whispered instructions to them. "Come, Chancellors, let us depart! Let''s see how Mr. Hong ispleting the task I assigned him!" Hong Xing''s tears from acting were still smeared on his face. Upon hearing this, he froze for a moment, a flicker of panic in his eyes. But quickly, he gritted his teeth, raised his head, and stood up with neither arrogance nor humility, "This minister has nothing to be ashamed of!" Impossible. The Emperor couldn''t possibly know how he previously conducted his official duties. For the task of overseeing livestock, he had indeed been exceptionally busy these past three days, sparing no effort. Hisst time neglecting his duties to privately meet with a concubine was seven days ago. How could the Emperor know about something that happened seven days ago, and only take action today? The more Hong Xing thought about it, the more convinced he became in his heart. Moreover, his attendant''s mouth was tightly sealed, and the maid of his concubine didn''t know who he was, so they wouldn''t reveal his secret. Besides, the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou had recently been busy entertaining envoys, managing the Crown Prince''s schedule, and developing gue medicines. How could he have time to pay attention to Hong Xing himself? And how would he even know where Hong Xing''s concubine was hidden? Hah, even his jealous wife didn''t know a single detail! After recounting everything, Hong Xing was full of confidence. "Your Majesty, Chancellors, I''m not afraid of an investigation!" The Chancellors immediately nodded sympathetically, looking at the Emperor with an expression that said, ''Your Majesty, you''re making a big fuss and wronging this man.'' "Your Majesty, Hong Xing has generally been quite diligent in his duties. You should remember, it was Hong Xing who supervised the army during the great battle at Jiakoust year." Hong Xing breathed a sigh of relief. Generally, he kept himself fairly clean, not beingpletely diligent in his duties, but managing to gloss over his shorings. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou rolled his eyes, looking at this group of ''obtuse'' Chancellors in his cab, and wordlessly boarded the pnquin. "Further discussion is fruitless; let us depart." Soon, the Emperor left the pce in in clothes, apanied by ministers who had also changed into casual attire, taking a small path from the Censorate to the Capital Official''s residence. The one leading the way was the pce guard the Emperor had previously called in to whisper instructions. The journey was silent. But as Hong Xing walked along the familiar path, his eyelids began to twitch. Yet he remained rtively calm, "Your Majesty, to save time and benefit the people, I often take these small paths to quickly reach the Capital Official''s residence. Many times, I have discussed matters in detail with the Capital Officialte into the night." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. So there was an aplice? He let out a mockingugh towards Hong Xing. Hong Xing: "......" He didn''t know why, but he began to sweat. Soon, the Emperor''s pnquin arrived at the Capital Official''s residence, but the Emperor did not speak, and the pnquin continued through the back alleys. "Your Majesty¡ª" Hong Xing froze as the familiar small courtyard with red walls came into view! Emperor Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, and the pnquin stopped in front of the small red-walled courtyard. The attendants on both sides stuffed cloths into Hong Xing''s mouth, practically dragging him like a chicken once he realized something was amiss. "Your Majesty..." The Chancellors in the cab were all shocked. "What is this ce?" "What does this mean...?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou gestured for them to be quiet, then led the way forward. Soon they reached the interior of the small red-walled courtyard and heard the whispers of several maids. "The young master hasn''te to see ourdy for several days." "The young master must have been dyed by something, but he maye today. Previously, on the odd-numbered days of the 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th of each month, he woulde to apany ourdy without fail, arriving at 3pm." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou stopped in his tracks. The Chancellors behind him turned around in shock, looking at the now pale and speechless Hong Xing! On the odd-numbered days of each month at 3pm, court officials should be on duty! After the morning court session and a noon meal, they were supposed to hurry to their respective offices to be on duty. The Imperial Censors from the Censorate were more flexible since staying at the Censorate didn''t allow them to monitor officials, so they would often visit the duty stations of those they were monitoring. This scoundrel Hong Xing was using his authority for personal gain, neglecting his duty shift?! Even Chancellor Fu Cha was rendered speechless. The gagged Hong Xing shook his head frantically, struggling to deny the usation! But soon, his dream of escaping guilt was shattered. The two gossiping maids from behind the screen in the small red-walled courtyard had already emerged. When the maids saw the bound Hong Xing, they were horrified. "Young master?! What happened to you!?" "You haven''te for seven days. Young master, were you captured?" The fools ruined him! Hong Xing was so enraged, his vision went ck. He looked at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou and the Chancellors who had just defended him in utter fear and panic. In an instant, he knelt down, kowtowing repeatedly against the ground. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou let out a coldugh, "So this young master whoes here on the odd-numbered days is none other than our esteemed Mr. Hong." "My, I thought I had misheard earlier. Isn''t that the time when officials should be on duty?" "Your Majesty¡ª" Hong Xing rubbed the cloth from his mouth against a rock, immediately spitting it out and speaking frantically, "This minister was wrong!" "I was foolish. I swear, I have carried out the tasks you assigned me diligently!" "I will never do such a thing again! Your Majesty¡ª" "You carried out your duties diligently?" Emperor Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes, turning to the group of Chancellors watching the spectacle. "Chancellor Fu Cha, Hong Xing just asked you to judge him. Now I ask you to judge as well." He looked at the maids beside him. "Tell us, how does this young master take care of yourdy, his thirteenth concubine?" The maid was terrified. Hong Xing was even more distraught. How did the Emperor know this was his thirteenth concubine? So precisely? He himself hadn''t even counted! Hong Xing''s mind was in turmoil, and what made him break out in a cold sweat was that after recounting, this really was his thirteenth mistress kept outside... At one point, he had almost overlooked a woman he had only kept for a month before she died of illness! Heavens! The Emperor knew his situation better than he did himself? Hong Xing''s face was as white as a sheet, his lips trembling uncontrobly! The Chancellors beside him were also shaken. The Emperor''s intelligencework not only reached the courier stations to know the prices of warhorses, but it even prated the private quarters where officials kept their mistresses...? "I had always intended to give you a chance before this," said Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, turning slightly and acting arrogant again. "I wanted to let you properly carry out your duties, which is why I didn''t expose you until now." "But Hong Xing, you have broken the hearts of the people." "The livestock thatmoners value more than their own lives are less important in your eyes than your thirteenth concubine." "?????" "......" "?????" The Chancellors were utterly baffled. Wait, what kind of analogy was the Emperor making? Ah? For a moment, they werepletely confused. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t bother with summoning a maidservant. He directlyunched into warning Hong Xing about the Little Princess''s extravagant lifestyle. "Hong Xing, your concubine consumes one pound of bird''s nest every day, fifty taels of ginseng nourishing pills, and drinks only spring water that requires four hours of manpower to transport from the mountains." "Where does the money to support your concubine''s indulgencese from?" "Is it not from taxing themoners?" "If you devoted even a fraction of those funds to caring for themoners'' livestock and piglets, at least some peasants could have a prosperous year and afford to eat some pork." "Hong Xing, you have deeply disappointed me and themon folk!" Sweat poured down Hong Xing''s forehead. The Emperor knew the details all too well! He had sourced the nourishing pills for his concubine at a low price, yet the Emperor called out the precise daily amount of fifty taels! This was too frightening! Hearing the Emperor''s thunderous voice, Hong Xing was filled with dread, fear, and regret for his actions. If only he had focused on raising pigs back then instead of¡ªno, if only he had diligently carried out his duties, it would not havee to this! Hong Xing hung his head in remorse. "I have tolerated your arbitrary behavior due to your advanced age," said Xiao Yunzhou, shifting his gaze from Hong Xing to the other chancellors as he spoke with his hands behind his back. "..." The elderly cab ministers shuddered. "But while themoners eat gruel, you feast on ginseng." "This, I cannot allow!" "Today, Hong Xing, I will make an example of you!" "You could not grasp the simple techniques of raising piglets in three days, but I have understood them!" "You should cherish themoners'' livestock as you do your concubines." Hong Xing''s eyes widened. Xiao Yunzhou turned dramatically, "Bring writing materials!" "I will speak, and you will record!" "Before farrowing, carefully select healthy, well-muscled breeding boars..." "During gestation, provide the sows with precious but not excessive feed...keep the pens clean." "After birth, monitor the sows'' milk supply and health, and examine the piglets'' condition." "Piglet feed..." The cab ministers'' jaws dropped as they listened. Hong Xing''s face turned pale, then flushed as tears streamed down. The way to properly govern was hidden in the care he hadvished upon his concubine! He did not know, because he had neglected themoners! And now, he would have no further chance. "Hong Xing, for dereliction of duty and failure to grasp even the basics of raising livestock while oppressing the citizens, your property is hereby confiscated, and you are banished to serve in the army for three thousand li!" Chapter 77 Chapter 77 The news about Hong Xing quickly spread throughout the streets and alleys. The reason was none other than the crime for which he was stripped of his property by the Emperor - it was too attention-grabbing for themoners! "Is the imperial edict posted here real? Is it true that he was exiled for neglecting the welfare of the people''s pigs?" "What? It really says he was stripped of his property for keeping a concubine and neglecting the people''s pigs?" Themoners gathered outside Hong''s residence to watch the spectacle. Many were illiterate, but when those who could read exined it to them, they were astonished. "That''s right, our Emperor of Jing Country wrote this edict himself, because he recently gained the affection of the Third Princess, whom he treats as a treasure. One day, the Third Princess cried inconsbly, so when the Emperor took her out for a stroll, he heard about how wemoners can''t afford to eat pork." "The Third Princess wept for our plight, as if she was grieving for usmoners. Our Emperor empathized deeply, and in his remorse, he sent Hong Xing to investigate why we can''t afford pork." "Who would have known that Hong Xing would bungle the whole thing?" "The Emperor was heartbroken, believing that officials should treat our households like their own, let alone our livestock." "The Emperor was so enraged that he confiscated the corrupt official''s property for public use, to be used entirely to improve the conditions of ourmoners'' pigsties." Themoners discussed the edict amongst themselves. Soon, they were all awestruck. "Oh my! In the Emperor''s eyes, our pigs are as precious as officials?" "The Emperor really said that!" "Is such a thing even possible?" "Of course!" "If that''s the case, we would dly share a portion of our pigs with the Emperor!" Themoners from nearby viges who hade to the city market were excited upon seeing the edict. Some couldn''t help but wipe away tears. "The Emperor also said that he hopes all officials will learn from his three-month-old Third Princess, to be moved to tears when they hear of the people''s suffering." "Oh heavens, the Third Princess must be a reincarnated immortal, and our Emperor must be a celestial being!" "Our Emperor of Jing Country has suddenly be so benevolent!" How did he be so benevolent? Xiao Yunzhou, who had been strolling inmoner''s clothing and overheard the Liu family''s update on their egg hatching, was walking with his hands sped behind his back, beaming. He looked down at his beloved daughter Chu Chu, cradled in Wei Zheng''s arms. How did this Emperor be so benevolent? It was all because of his precious daughter that this father and ruler had be so! Xiao Yunzhou felt like weeping. In all the years since his ascension, this was the first time he had heard such sincere praise for him as an Emperor from themoners. [Wow, I never imagined my fatherly prestige would rise like this.] Chu Chu was also beaming. [Eating more meat means themoners will be happier and healthier!] [Father Emperor, hurry up and teach the people how to care for pigs, so our national strength will gradually increase.] Xiao Yunzhou nodded repeatedly. His daughter was right! This father and ruler must heed her! "Wei Zheng, what do you think about me assigning the idle former officials at home to teach themoners how to care for sows?" Wei Zheng''s eyes widened in disbelief. What kind of idea was that? Xiao Yunzhou felt it was an excellent idea. "For instance, the father of the Empress, the former Chancellor Lord Tong, is sixty years old but still hikes mountains and teaches students, so he''s still quite robust." "But he''s wasting away at home." Wei Zheng didn''t dare utter a word. Yet Xiao Yunzhou grew more convinced as he spoke. "Not long ago, Lord Tong produced two monstrous disciples from the Zhou Family, but I didn''t hold it against him." "Now is the perfect opportunity - he can take a few months off from teaching and instead teach ourmoners first." "Wei Zheng, what do you think of my idea?" Wei Zheng opened his mouth. This... Lord Tong, the former Chancellor, would probably think it''s a terrible idea! Which former high official would deign to rear pigs? But Xiao Yunzhou had made up his mind, and upon returning to the pce, he drafted an edict to immediately summon all the retired old troublemakers back home to receive training in raising pigs. [Awesome, my Emperor Father has evene up with the modern concept of retirement and re-employment!] Chu Chu was dumbfounded. Xiao Yunzhou was also stumped. What was retirement? Re-employment? There were so many things in the immortal realm that he had never heard of. [Ah yes, this is a good move. Some healthy elders in their sixties who are still more active than the youth.] [They feel lonely at home, no longer needed by the young, and be deste.] [This way, we can make good use of their expertise and talents and give them an opportunity to radiate their remaining warmth and glory!] Chu Chu''s grape-like eyes sparkled brightly in Wei Zheng''s arms. Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. Radiate their remaining warmth? These elders feel lonely and deste at home? Ah, isn''t that the portrait of the Empress''s own father?! ¡ªTrying to control the court from afar at home, with all his energy going to waste! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes flickered. The immortal realm was so wise, keeping these ''deste'' homebodies who wanted to cause trouble busy! Too busy to think of anything else, while continuing to serve this Emperor. Xiao Yunzhou nodded repeatedly, then turned to Wei Zheng. "Go post another edict - any other retired former officials or schrs in the capital who are willing to participate in this postpartum sow care program should be gathered." Wei Zheng: "!" The Emperor had gone mad again! This was going to drain these schrs dry! Wei Zheng couldn''t even imagine himself having to work until he was seventy or eighty! "Hmm?" Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow at the dazed Wei Zheng. Wei Zheng shuddered. "Your Majesty is wise. This servant will go make the arrangements immediately!" * "What?" In the Kunning Pce, the Empress had pricked her hands on the branches of the tea flowers. "The Emperor wants my father toe to the capital to receive training in... caring for sows?" "And then go to the viges to teach people how to care for... sows giving birth..." The Empress was shocked. Her father was the former Chancellor! When Xiao Yunzhou ascended the throne in his first year, she became the Empress, and her father promptly retired from the capital. "The Emperor must be holding a grudge against my father." "This is his way of humiliating my father, questioning how he produced corrupt disciples like Hong Xing and the Zhou Family scions!" The Empress was rmed and indignant. "If my father has to tend to pigsties... how will the Crown Prince ever have the dignity to ascend the throne in the future?" "This will be recorded in the histories - that the Emperor had a pig-raising grandfather!" "Absolutely not, Chun Tao, hurry and discuss this with the Chancellor." "This cannot be agreed to in the morning court, we cannot let the Emperor have his way!" "Also, send word for my father to pretend to be ill!" ... The next day, when Xiao Yunzhou attended court, he had arranged for Wei Zheng to stand behind the curtain, cradling the little Princess. Xiao Yunzhou tiptoed lightly, careful not to disturb his sleeping daughter. He took his seat on the throne, his face beaming with pride as he looked upon his ministers. "If you have business, present it. If not, court is dismissed!" Just as the eunuch made the announcement, an official stood up. "Your Majesty, this minister has a matter to bring forth." "This minister humbly requests that Your Majesty relieve Lord Tong of his duties. The former Grand Chancellor, Lord Tong, has retired. The court is not without capable men. Why then does the aged Lord Tong still toil for the court?" The noise awoke Third Princess Chu Chu, who opened her eyes in a daze. With nothing better to do, she spent her credits to obtain an instant visual feed of her stepfather, the former Grand Chancellor. After watching for a while, she couldn''t help but giggle. [Look at this, in the depths of winter, my stepfather at fifty-eight years old is out there in just a single robe, practicing his martial arts.] Xiao Yunzhou was just about to waver, thinking that Lord Tong was indeed getting on in years. But then he heard his daughter''s nextment. Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. [Heavens, Lord Tong is far more robust than my not-yet-forty-year-old father the Emperor!] [Haha, my imperial father gets winded after just a short walk, but Lord Tong isn''t even breathing hard or flushed in the face.] [And he was engaged in battle with a consort until dawnst night?] Xiao Yunzhou: "...!" Silence. Xiao Yunzhou was silent. "Your Majesty, Lord Tong is advanced in age. What if something were to happen to him?" the remonstrating official threatened. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and closed his eyes. Not on your life! ording to his beloved daughter, if anyone was likely to have apse, it was him, the Emperor - not the vigorous and ambitious Lord Tong with his impressive physical condition! "Very well," Xiao Yunzhou smiled at the remonstrating official and nodded. "I shall have the imperial physicians examine Lord Tong thoroughly before sending him on his way!" The remonstrating official opened his mouth but... Chapter 78 Chapter 78 In just two or three days, the imperial decree inviting old officials back into service had arrived in the hands of many retired officials. Some were delighted, while others were distressed. "The Emperor still remembers you, Lord Tong. Congrattions, congrattions." The former Prime Minister, the Empress'' father, Tong Zhiqiu, with his rosy face, received the imperial decree with a feigned smile. Turning to the apanying Imperial physician Xu, Tong Zhiqiu tly declined, "As long as the Emperor needs me, I will spare no effort. There are many refugees around Hangzhou, if Imperial physician Xu is free, he could attend to their medical needs." "I am still quite robust, there''s no need to trouble Imperial physician Xu." Saying this, Tong Zhiqiu, tearful, knelt down facing the north direction of the pce and kowtowed three times, "I will set off immediately." "It''s my fortune to serve the people!" "I am willing to stand for the people until the end!" His voice resounded like a great bell. The people who had gathered around to watch the excitement brought by the arrival of the imperial decree in Hangzhou, could not help but line up spontaneously, seeing him off. Tong Zhiqiu did not dy. Upon receiving the imperial decree, he immediately boarded the carriage heading for the capital. "Wow, the Empress'' father is setting off!" Xiao Chuchu, who was concerned about her pig-raising business and also keeping an eye on whether the Empress was up to no good, tuned into the live broadcast of the Tong Family early in the morning. While drinking her porridge in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, she licked her little mouth like a kitten and watched the drama unfold in her mind. "It''s only been the time it takes to drink a cup of tea since he received the imperial decree, and old man Tong has already set off~ None of the other retired officials are as quick in their actions as him!" "This performance is indeed worthy of a former Prime Minister!" Xiao Yunzhou gently wiped the porridge from his daughter''s mouth, but his expression gradually turned icy. Hangzhou is a few days'' journey from the capital even for a fast horse. Did Lord Tong set off without even packing his personal belongings? He had the carriage ready for a long journey within the span of a tea break? What does this suggest? Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, picturing the lean old man who had always been impably dressed and groomed when teaching him as the Crown Prince. That old man Tong was a clean freak. He would be anxious if he didn''t change his clothes. But now, he got straight into the carriage as soon as the imperial decree arrived, without even taking the time to pack a change of clothes... What does this imply? It implies that the Tong Family had been prepared, they had received the news of his recall to the capital well in advance! The news of the imperial decree reaching Hangzhou was slower than the Tong Family''s informationwork! "Oh dear, the people are moved by Lord Tong''s dedication and his words about burning until the end. His leaving-the-city carriage is surrounded by people, making it impassable." "Wow, the people even presented him with the Umbre of the Masses! They say Lord Tong is like the celestial canopy, sheltering the people!" Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. This Tong Zhiqiu certainly seized the good reputation for the public convenience methods that he, as the Emperor, had thought of. Did this old man ever think ofing out of retirement to do something for the people before he was summoned? Now, the old man was being seen off by all the people...! "The students from the Tong Family School, many of whom are schrs, came to see off old man Tong, shedding tears and vowing to learn from him." "The prefect of Hangzhou also came to see him off." Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes. [Sigh, Old Master Tong stands on the carriage, his old tears flowing freely. He tells everyone to go back, not to obstruct the city gate and prevent themon people from entering and leaving, from going to the market to exchange goods.] [He tells the schrs to study well, then he will be at ease.] Xiao Yunzhou''s chest heaves. Are the schrs studying for the Tong Family, or for the imperial court?! Xiao Chuchu smacks her lips, oblivious to the fact that the pace at which Xiao Yunzhou is feeding her the milky paste has slowed down. She''s engrossed in the live broadcast. In a short while, she reaches a crucial point and bes so excited that she forgets all about the milky paste. [Ah, Old Master Tong brushes off the imperial physician sent by the Emperor.] [He tells his son who is with him to ride fast and head to the capital city.] [Once he gets to Tong Manor in the capital, he will fall ill.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widen. [He says his old bones can''t handle the bumps on the road, which is normal.] [He also says that the Emperor is his student. In Jing Country, filial pietyes first, then the teacher-student rtionship.] [The Emperor will certainlye to visit him, the teacher who rushed to the capital city for his student and fell ill from exhaustion.] [At that time, everyone in the world will know who the Emperor values more.] [Things the Emperor cannot handle, he will have to visit him thrice at his thatched cottage and ask for his help.] Xiao Yunzhou, enraged by what he hears, ms the spoon of milky paste on the table. Xiao Chuchu in his arms is startled, her heartbeat abruptly stops. Xiao Yunzhou takes a deep breath, "Wei Zheng, don''t make a sound if there''s nothing wrong." Wei Zheng, who is standing nearby, is puzzled: "???" ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to get a golden spoon? You clumsy thing, it doesn¡¯t matter if you scare me, but what if you scare the little princess?¡± Wei Zheng, who has not moved an inch, is speechless: "¡­¡­" He looks down at the stone bricks under his feet. Did he just¡­¡­move? * "In two days, like the wind shing like lightning, the Emperor''s teacher, Old Master Tong, who is 59 years old, falls ill as soon as he arrives at Tong Manor in the capital city." "His high fever doesn''t subside, and he is delirious." "That night, a stream of physicians are invited into the Manor." In the Tong family carriage, the third son of the Tong family, tells his father, Tong Zhiqiu, about their ns and arrangements after arriving in the capital. "Upon hearing the news, many of the capital''s schrs rush over, anxious to know the condition of Master Tong, whose students are all over the world." "Knowing that Master Tong is unconscious, they are all anxious and refuse to leave the outside of Tong Manor." "Dad, at this time, when you hear that the schrs are surrounding the Manor, despite your own high fever, you forcibly get out of bed, go out and tell everyone that the state affairse first, and you are insignificant." Old Master Tong, Tong Zhiqiu, listens to his third son''s nned drama, twiddles his beard, squints his eyes, and nods in approval with a smile. The third son of the Tong family continues, "Then, among the schrs, someone proposes to go to the nearby viges to promote the imperial court''s pig-raising method on your behalf." "When the Emperores to see you, he will be surrounded by schrs, who will volunteer to go in your ce." Tong Zhiqiu nods with a smile, "Good, let''s do it this way." At that time, the Emperor would dare not ask him to handle the pigsty matter anymore. And if this pigsty matter can be sessful, it would also be he, Tong Zhiqiu, who, despite his serious illness, came to the capital and inspired thousands of schrs to join the wave of promoting the new pig-raising technique. His reputation, Tong Zhiqiu''s, will be further enhanced. The third son of the Tong family also smiles as he envisions the future grand event, "At that time, the Eldest Prince will also have a maternal family with a great reputation." "All schrs under heaven will surely support the Eldest Prince." Tong Zhiqiu was in high spirits, stroking his beard, "Hmm, you personally prepare the medicine for feigning illness." "Be careful, don¡¯t let others get the residue of the medicine." "If anyone asks, just say it''s for your wife who''s having menstrual irregrities." The third son of the Tong Family promptly agreed. However, as he was holding a packet of medicinal herbs, about to store it in his sleeve and get out of the carriage, he felt the carriage stop. Soon a voice came. "The Emperor¡ª¡ª!" The third son of the Tong Family trembled suddenly. Tong Zhiqiu''s rosy old face showed a moment of surprise. The Emperor... why did he appear on the way?! They hadn''t reached the capital city yet! The Emperor was supposed to visit him after he fell ill! "It''s the Emperor!" "The Emperor said he couldn''t bear to see his teacher suffer on the road, so he came to escort the teacher himself!" "He wants to take the teacher''s pulse personally every day!" Old Master Tong and the third son of the Tong Family: "??!" As they were shocked and rushing down from the carriage, preparing to kneel and give salutations, they were gently and pretentiously supported by Xiao Yunzhou, who was holding Xiao Chuchu. "Teacher, long time no see," Xiao Yunzhou smiled. Old Master Tong was just about to be polite, but he heard Xiao Yunzhou chuckle. "Hmm? Tong Xinzhi, what''s that bulging in your sleeve?" Chapter 79 Chapter 79 Tong Zhiqiu and his son never expected that the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou would appear on their journey! Originally, they had hoped to make the Emperor feel guilty and let all themon people and schrs know of Tong Zhiqiu''s good reputation. Now that Xiao Yunzhou had appeared, it was impossible! "Master has endured hardship,e, bring a silk cushion. I shall personally take Tong''s pulse to ensure the Master''s health on the journey." Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. Tong Zhiqiu and his son were dumbfounded. What? Since when did the Emperor take pulses? They had indeed received news from the capital that, ording to the Empress, the prescription for treating the gue afflicting refugees was decided after the Emperor consulted with the Imperial Physicians. But wasn''t this just nonsense? Others might not know, but Tong Zhiqiu, who had taught Xiao Yunzhou since childhood, was well aware that Xiao Yunzhou had no medical knowledge. But in the next moment, the expressions of Tong''s father and son changed drastically! "Hm? Tong Xinzhi, what''s that bulky thing in your sleeve?" Xiao Yunzhou smiled, cradling the dragon-patterned bundle. "Is it a prescription for a woman''s menstrual difort?" Tong''s father and son were instantly covered in goosebumps! Impossible, impossible! How could the Emperor know what they had discussed moments ago in their carriage? Their coachman was deaf and mute! Inside the carriage, there were only the two of them. The other servants anddies were in the carriages behind, at least a dozen steps away from their lead carriage. How did the Emperor know? Xiao Yunzhou looked at the petrified Tong''s third son, then at the unruffled old fox Tong Zhiqiu, and smilingly handed the little princess to Wei Zheng. "Master, don''t me me for being talkative. Since thedy is indisposed, it would be considerate not to let her apany you to the capital." Xiao Yunzhou sped his hands behind his back, smiling wryly, "What if she falls ill upon reaching the capital? That would be my fault." Tong''s third son immediately knelt down. Tong Zhiqiu''s eyelids twitched, and he immediately scolded, "You scoundrel, such disrespect before the Emperor!" "Your wife is ill, why didn''t you tell me? Quick, let your wife return to Hangzhou. If she transmits the illness to the Emperor, you shall bear the consequences!" [I thought, the old fox is so cunning, putting on an act. Clearly, it was he who feigned illness with those medications, but now he''s pushing the me onto his son and daughter-inw!] Xiao Chuchu even rolled her pretty eyes within the bundle. [So knowledgeable, yet so shameless. Putting on such a righteous front, but truly a petty person, tsk tsk!] Xiao Chuchu looked down on this Tong Zhiqiu, her cute inner voice criticizing him like a machine gun, unable to stop. Xiao Yunzhou had to restrain himself from bursting intoughter at his daughter''s adorable antics. "Ahem," Xiao Yunzhou turned to Tong Zhiqiu, "Get up, I''ll take the Master''s pulse." Tong Zhiqiu, a former high official and imperial tutor to the Crown Prince, was the Grand Tutor! His aged face betrayed no emotions. But at this moment, the corners of his mouth twitched, "When did Your Majesty learn medicine?" Xiao Yunzhou asked him to sit down and gestured for silence, instructing him to ce his wrist on the silk cushion set up as a makeshift examination table. [My imperial father is actually going to examine someone? Shocking the whole family.] [The novels never covered this.] Xiao Chuchu blinked in puzzlement in Wei Zheng''s arms. [Ah, I wonder if my imperial father can detect whether Tong has any illness or not. The only thing is he has a bit of smelly feet ¡ª just taking off his shoes is quite impactful.] [Oh, and he also has hemorrhoids.] "Pfft¡ªcough cough cough¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou choked, his handsome face sternlyposed as he struggled not to burst intoughter! Tong had smelly feet? And hemorrhoids? This... [The reason he has been practicing fist techniques in recent years is because four years ago, he secretly visited a physician for his hemorrhoids. The physician told him to stay active and not sit for too long.] [This condition was caused by his long hours sitting at work in the past.] [He hid it even from his own wife. His sons, daughters, not even the Empress knew.] [Four years ago, when the pain was at its worst, he couldn''t even sit properly and had trouble sleeping at night.] [Too ashamed to speak of it, even when summoning a physician, he wouldn''t take off his pants for an examination!] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze became increasingly shocked yet sympathetic as he looked behind Tong Zhiqiu. Tong Zhiqiu, dressed in a grey robe befitting a schrly gentleman, was slender and robust, with a ruddyplexion. He kept his head lowered in apparent trepidation, but his downcast eyes revealed a subtle disdain for the Emperor. Tong Zhiqiu recalled when he was the Chief Minister, the Emperor was only as tall as his waist. The Emperor, once ignorant of literature, gained his extensive knowledge through Tong''s and that Fucha''s tutge. Now the child had grown, with his own ideas! Unwilling to establish Tong''s daughter''s son as the Crown Prince, instead favoring the Liu Family''s candidate! Hmph! As Tong Zhiqiu thought this, he raised his head and looked at the Emperor with contempt. Did the Emperor think he could suppress the Tong Family?! Dream on. "Has Your Majesty diagnosed anything? How is this old man''s health?" Tong Zhiqiu narrowed his eyes. To put it bluntly, whatever the Emperor thought, he didn''t need to say it. Tong and that old Fucha could guess it just by the Emperor passing gas! Now he was putting on this pulse-taking act to intimidate him? Childish! Did he think this sort of pressure would leave the Tong Family helpless? Tong Zhiqiu scoffed at the Emperor''s childish tactics. But the Emperor''s next words sent a chill down Tong Zhiqiu''s spine! "Master," Xiao Yunzhou said gravely, staring at him with sympathetic eyes, "I didn''t know you had such an unspeakable affliction." Tong Zhiqiu: "!" Xiao Chuchu: "!" Tong''s third son: "!" They were all stunned, but for different reasons. Tong was utterly shocked, staring at the Emperor in disbelief. Tong''s third son waspletely incredulous, seeking confirmation from his father. "s, Master, you should have told me when it first appeared four years ago," Xiao Yunzhou shook his head. "We have a teacher-student bond, what can''t be spoken of?" "Even if you were in excruciating pain, unable to sit or stand, with certain odors, I wouldn''t have mocked you, Master." Tong Zhiqiu''s pretentious facadepletely crumbled! "Impossible, Your Majesty, are you saying my father suffers from... the unspeakable affliction of hemorrhoids?" Tong''s third son couldn''t help but interject. "Your Majesty, my father definitely doesn''t have this problem..." What kind of joke was this?! Tong''s third son couldn''t help but refute it. He looked at the imperial and Tong family carriages stopped in the bamboo grove, and the schrs, wealthy merchants, andmoners who hade to see them off from neighboring counties! Everyone could hear them! How could the Emperor spout such nonsense, iming his father had sores on his backside? What kind of decorum was that? When the Eldest Prince ascended the throne, wouldn''t everyone know that the Eldest Prince''s maternal grandfather had hemorrhoids?! The reputation of the Tong Family was being heavily discounted, about to be aughing stock! "Your Majesty is wise," Tong Zhiqiu''s third son said, kneeling down to refute Xiao Yunzhou, unable to bear his father''s lifelong good name being tarnished. "My father had his pulse checked just two days beforeing to the capital, and he was in perfect health. The physician said he was as vigorous as a tiger, with no issues at all!" Fool! Tong Zhiqiu almost cursed out loud at his son! Now, he couldn''t pretend to be ill after returning to the capital! Even if he fell sick, it wouldn''t be because the Emperor had an elderly man like him travel, but rather because he had been hale and hearty in Hangzhou, only to feign illness upon arriving in the capital! More importantly¡ª "Oh?" Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. "It seems I was mistaken. What do you think, teacher?" Cold sweat poured down Tong''s body like rain, his liver and gall almost bursting! How did he know? How did the Emperor know? Even his wife by his side didn''t know! "This hidden illness doesn''t allow sitting for long," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. "You should move around more." "I now understand that I cannot allow the teacher to continue teaching in Hangzhou." "The teacher shoulde out and walk around the manors and viges more. Teacher, what do you think?" Tong Zhiqiu''s mouth twitched. Finally drenched in sweat, he took a step back. With great difficulty, he knelt down and kowtowed! "Thank you for Your Majesty''s consideration!" "You''re sending this old man out...to tend to pigs. Your Majesty is wise!" Chapter 80 Chapter 80 "What? My father agreed to the Emperor?" The Empress was shocked upon receiving the news. What about the Eldest Prince? "What about the early court..." "Lord Tong said that he volunteered to learn how to take care of the pigsty. After learning, he would teach the people. No one else should oppose it." The Empress was left speechless. ...... [Hehe, when my Emperor dad mentioned his hidden illness, Lord Tong''s face immediately turned green, fearing the Emperor would reveal it in front of the schrs.] [He immediately agreed to take care of the piglets.] Xiao Chuchu was in Concubine Liu''s warm pavilion, watching her brother Cheng Qian study, while sipping water fed by Concubine Liu. Concubine Liu and Cheng Qian were looking at the ground in tacit agreement, trying to suppress theirughter. Xiao Yunzhou was a generous Emperor. His diagnosis was spoken in a low voice to Tong Zhiqiu, preserving his dignity. But if Tong Zhiqiu didn''t understand, Xiao Yunzhou would clearly not be courteous anymore. [Huh, after some time, my brother''s intelligence has increased by 2 points, reaching 90!] Cheng Qian was stunned, and Concubine Liu was overjoyed. The Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who just entered the room, was even more delighted when he heard this. Has his son''s intelligence increased due to drinking sheep''s milk and eating eggs, or from helping in the meal room? If his son''s intelligence has increased, wouldn''t his intelligence as the Emperor increase soon too? Excellent! "What good news? Why is Concubine Liu so happy?" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile. But afterughing, Xiao Yunzhou was afraid his daughter would notice something unusual. He immediately diverted the topic seeing Concubine Liu was alsoughing. "What were you and Cheng Qian talking about? Tell me too." Concubine Liu paused while feeding the water, nced at the Emperor, "We were just talking about how his uncle recently hatched a batch of ducklings with a heated bed." Xiao Yunzhou was immediately overjoyed, "Really? The leap year did not disappoint my expectations!" "How many days has it been, less than half a month!" Are ten-odd days considered fast? Concubine Liu calmly exined, "My elder brother collected twelve batches of duck eggs that had been incubated by the farmers for over half a month. He tried different methods like warm heated beds, warm quilts, heated grains, mud, y pots..." "Now, three of the batches have sessfully hatched ducklings." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, "Your elder brother is a talent, I only gave him a little hint!" He was initially afraid that he hadn''t properly conveyed the guidance of his daughter. He thought that if the leap year began with failure, he, as the Emperor, could be patient and ''guide'' him once or twice more! Unexpectedly, Liu Runnian seeded in half a month, and even tried so many methods! Heating mud, y pots, cotton quilts... these were not mentioned in the Immortal Realm''s treasure book "Artificial Egg Hatching". These were all thought of by Liu Runnian himself. Although they failed, his thought process is worth encouraging! "Good! This is the talent I want!" Xiao Yunzhou was excited. If everyone in the court was like Liu Runnian, why should he worry that his daughter''s Immortal Realm books could not be used for the world, could not be used for Jing Country? This also counts as Jing Country''s talent thinking of it themselves. He, as the Emperor, did not leak the ''heavenly secret'' and won''t lose his life! Good, good, good. "Your Majesty, I went outside the pce yesterday to sew winter clothes. I heard from my mother that the method you mentioned earlier to my elder brother, Liu Runnian, about speeding up the growth of the ducks, he has figured it out," Concubine Liu reported, stealing a nce at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s reaction. Seeing that he took it well, she continued with the second piece of good news. "What? He figured it out as well? So soon!?" Xiao Yunzhou was even more surprised. He thought Liu Runnian had only researched incubation. "I just gave him a hint that day, saying that children grow slow because they don''t eat enough, did he really take it to heart?" Concubine Liu looked at the astonished Emperor, her mouth twitching. What''s the use of the Emperor''s hints? Isn''t it just her niece, Xiao Chuchu, who listened to her own heart? "Your Majesty, you said that a child needs to eat more to grow faster. My elder brother invented the technique of force-feeding ducks, kneading feed into balls and stuffing it directly into the ducks. This method does not harm the ducks, there are no casualties, but it elerates growth and increases the weight of the ducks." "Ah, the invention of force-feeding ducks hase about?" Xiao Chuchu listened clearly in Concubine Liu''s arms. "Indeed, as long as I receive rewards, the skill books will be used by the officials and people of Jing Country in the ways they think of." "Great, my points are not wasted!" Points? Xiao Yunzhou, Concubine Liu, and Cheng Qian simultaneously pricked up their ears, a solemn look in their eyes. Points, could it mean the power of the Immortal Realm? Were these skill books all exchanged with Xiao Chuchu''s immortal power? Xiao Yunzhou was moved to tears. As a father, he must promote these things well, and not waste Xiao Chuchu''s immortal power! As Xiao Yunzhou thought, he looked at Concubine Liu and said with deep emotion, "How is your brother''s preparation for the civil service exam? He is such a talent, he should serve the court as soon as possible." Concubine Liu was a bit awkward. Cheng Qian also silently lowered his head. "Ahaha, my uncle has been raising ducks for many days, he hasn''t read a single sage''s article." "Just yesterday he was beaten by my grandfather at home, it made meugh." Xiao Yunzhou: "......" "Cough, Concubine Liu, I''ve decided. Let your brother register at the Imperial Academy tomorrow, and then report to the Ministry of Works." Concubine Liu was taken aback, and Cheng Qian raised his head. * "Your Majesty, I object to Liu Runnian joining my Ministry of Works!" Two dayster, the Minister of the Ministry of Works angrily stood up at the morning court meeting and reported! "Liu Runnian is not a Jinshi, he hasn''t studied at the Imperial Academy for a day, how can he break the rules and be an official in the six ministries!" "Your Majesty, I second the motion." Chancellor Fu Cha personally stood up and protested unhappily, "Please withdraw such a yful decision, Your Majesty!" As he spoke, Chancellor Fu Cha squinted and nced at Liu the Elder, who was standing as the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel. Liu Runnian, who in the court doesn''t know he''s a Liu? He is Concubine Liu''s elder brother, the Emperor''s uncle! But doesn''t his Fu Cha family have uncles of the Emperor too? "If the rtives of the Prince''s maternal family are all favored by the Emperor, then what fairness can be spoken of in official appointments?" "The Emperor should set an example, favoritism in appointments is not eptable!" Chancellor Fu Cha knelt down. The elders behind him also knelt down one after another. All of the six ministries, except for Liu the Elder, even took off their ck gauze caps, showing their determination to fight against the Emperor''s decision to the end! Elder Liu from the Liu family stood in the court, under the scrutiny of countless eyes. "Elder Liu, shouldn''t you be persuading the Emperor?" "Elder Liu, it''s surprising for a respected schr like you, a genuine second-rank graduate, to cover up for your own family member who can''t even read! You''vepletely abandoned justice!" "Elder Liu, I misjudged you!" Elder Liu: "......" He was truly caught between a rock and a hard ce, with me falling from the sky. Sigh. "It''s all a misunderstanding, I''ve already told the Emperor that my family''s Leap Year is not up to par. But the Emperor insisted on employing him!" Elder Liu put on an innocent face. The entire court, both civil and military officials, were dumbstruck. What kind of person is this? Is he showing off to them? "Injustice," Elder Liu spread his hands, "If you don''t believe me, ask the Emperor. Just yesterday I submitted a letter saying that my family''s Leap Year is too humble to ept!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes flickered, "Elder Liu is too modest. If my prince were as intelligent and capable as Leap Year, I would have no shame before my ancestors." "???" The entire court was shocked. What on earth was the Emperor saying? Elder Liu beat his chest and stamped his feet, shaking his head, "Too humble to ept, too humble to ept!" All thanks to his precious granddaughter''s advice! "My son just managed to research how to artificially incubate hundreds of duck and chicken eggs at once~" "He just identally researched a method to shorten the maturation period of ducks, as well as a fattening method that doubles the weight of each duck." "It''s nothing, it''s nothing, these are small things, not worth mentioning~" "Leap Year''s learning is sparse, he''s nowhere near as good as the other ministers in the Ministry of Works!" "???" "...?" ".........!" The entire court, especially the Minister of the Ministry of Works, went from indignation, to surprise, to shock, to stupefaction. What? What did Elder Liu just say? Humans can incubate eggs just like mother ducks and chickens? How much meat can be produced from raising a single duck? Chapter 81 Chapter 81 Early in the morning, at the court. All the ministers fell silent, watching the Old Master of the Liu Family, dressed in the official robe of the Ministry of Personnel, earnestly remonstrating with Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. "Sire, you wish to admit the son of a servant, who possesses no schrly honors, into the Ministry of Works. I agree with the words of the Minister of Works¡ªhe is not worthy!" The corners of the Minister of Works'' eyebrows twitched fiercely! "What virtues or abilities does this servant''s son possess?" From the Minister of Works to the Vice Minister... all their mouths twisted, unable to utter a single word. "Oh, ording to Old Master Liu, Liu Runnian does not deserve to enter the Ministry of Works." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou suppressed augh, deliberately wearing a stern expression as he looked at the ministers. "Do others deserve it?" A chill ran down the neck of the Minister of Works, and sure enough, the next moment, Xiao Yunzhou blew up! "I have a court full of schrs and warriors!" "But the people still can''t afford to eat meat, they can''t wear warm clothes!" Xiao Yunzhou sat on the throne, tapping the table. "Improving the silk spinning machine for women was thought of by the women of my harem." "Improving the method of pig farming for the people was my idea." "Now, the method to increase duck farming yield was thought of by Liu Runnian, who has no schrly honors!" As Xiao Yunzhou said this, he began to feel distressed too. As he got carried away with his act, tears welled up in his eyes. Looking at the courtiers standing below, he said, overwhelmed with sorrow, "I don''t want to break the ancestral rules, nor do I want to practice nepotism." "But you schrs, could youe up with something useful for me!" Xiao Yunzhou pped his own face, "Do you have any shame in opposing Liu Runnian''s entry into the Ministry of Works? I''m embarrassed just hearing it!" Minister of Works: "......" Chancellor Fu Cha: "......" "I can''t count on you at all, I can only count on the talents among the people!" "Am I wrong?" "Am I wrong to want the people to be able to eat meat?" The courtiers opened their mouths, rendered speechless. Since some time ago, whenever the Emperor came to court, he was like a fighting rooster, vastly different from his previous style. His words were harsh, and between the lines, he was subtly scolding them, and the worst part was, he seemed to have a point? The courtiers fell silent. "Seeing is believing, hearing is not," Xiao Yunzhou stood up directly from the throne, "In the next few days, I will take you to enjoy a full duck banquet raised and hatched by Liu Runnian." The courtiers opened their mouths. "Especially Lord Chen of the Ministry of Works, you eat more." "......" "If you can learn a thing or two while eating, and apply what you have learned, I won''t need to face the ridicule of all the officials, and desperately scout talent for the Ministry of Works." "............" The face of the Minister of Works turned red. Old Master Liu, Liu Wenchang, was also somewhat embarrassed. If it weren''t for his son listening to the Little Princess''s heartfelt words, how could he have achieved this? He truly wanted to reject the Emperor''s idea of employing Runnian. But while sighing, Old Master Liu heard a soft voice from Wei Zheng''s arms. ¡¾Wow, that''s great.¡¿ ¡¾Although maybe it''s because I used points to exchange for a skill book, and it was only after that my uncle and Emperor Dad had a sh of inspiration and understood the technique of force-feeding ducks.¡¿ ¡¾But why can''t others do it, and my uncle can?¡¿ Of course, it''s because he listened to your heartfelt words. Liu Wenchang blushed. Of course, it''s because I heard your heartfelt words, that''s why I enlightened your uncle~ Xiao Yunzhou also felt a slight warmth in his ears. But they soon faltered. Xiao Chuchu''s grape-like eyes sparkled with anticipation, her mind buzzing, "Opportunities are reserved for those who are prepared." "If it wasn''t for my uncle¡¯s imaginative mind, always tinkering with household appliances, kites, and fireworks..." "Even with the secret manual, he might not have seeded." "There were no thermometers in ancient times... How to control the temperature for hatching eggs relied entirely on my uncle''s self-exploration and daring to try." "He is courageous, meticulous, skilled, and well-read, with rigorous logical thinking." "If it were someone else, sess might not be guaranteed!" Xiao Yunzhou''s pupils dted dramatically. Indeed. As an emperor, he was at a loss when he heard about artificial egg hatching. Like Liu Runnian, who divided the process into twelve groups to experiment with hatching containers and temperature control methods. After all, not everyone can master this technology. He, as the emperor, knew how to use people to their best potentials! Xiao Yunzhou nodded approvingly at Old Man Liu. Old Man Liu also had a beaming smile on his face, feeling content. "My grandfather certainly couldn''t do these things. Five days ago, I saw on the Liu family''s live broadcast that my grandfather wanted to help my uncle but ended up smashing three duck eggs. In the end, they could only be stewed for eating." Old Man Liu: "......" "So to speak, my uncle is truly remarkable." "Today, the emperor father exceptionally promoted him, which is in line with the modern exemry motivation, the alpha wolf motivation strategy." Xiao Yunzhou pricked up his ears. Alpha wolf motivation? What is this? A treasure trove of management techniques from the Immortal Realm''s Jade Emperor? "In any organization, the manager is the mirror of the subordinates." "A benchmark needs to be set for the employees." "Let everyone see that as long as they reach this level, they can receive generous rewards and inspire others in the organization to follow in the alpha wolf''s footsteps." Xiao Yunzhou: "!!" His eyes widened in shock. The Immortal Realm is indeed the Immortal Realm. Every sentence they pick out makes sense. Isn''t this the same as selecting a top schr? By the same logic, every profession in Jing Country should also pick out an example! Good at raising ducks, get promoted! Good at raising pigs, get rewarded! Why worry about Jing Countrycking talents? Xiao Yunzhou was enlightened. So was Old Man Liu. Today, Liu Runnian is indeed the benchmark. Rewarding him is necessary, and it will inspire all officials and even the people of Jing Country! "My uncle is also a special technical talent." "Out of all the trades, there are top schrs in each. Labor models should also be awarded, and technical talents should have their own tracks." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, and he immediately bent over to look at the several Chancellors and Vice Ministers in the cab. "You all, draft a charter." "Besides Liu Runnian, whoeveres up with clever ideas that benefit Jing Country and its people, report to the local County Magistrate''s Office." "After verification that it''s indeed useful, I will reward them. Particrly excellent individuals will not only receive silver, but I will also promote them to court officials." Chancellor Fu Cha and other Vice Ministers looked at each other, feeling that the emperor''s step was a bit big. But they couldn''t find a reason to refute it for the time being, because it indeed... sounded pretty good. "We obey your majesty''smand!" "Good, tomorrow you all, apany me to enjoy this feast of artificial hatching and duck stuffing!" "Oh, finally I can taste otherworldly roasted duck~" Upon hearing this, Xiao Chuchu almost drooled. She was a food lover, but there was no good food in the world of the novel. She grew up in this world, and she might not be able to eat the food she loved in her past life. For this reason, she had been worried for a long time. But now, the duck needed for roasting has been invented. The duck for filling is plump, with thin skin andrge chest... After roasting, the skin''s oil is golden and red, full and crispy. When the duck skin is cut piece by piece, just dip a little sugar, and it melts instantly in your mouth, with a fragrant aroma. Also, you can use a thinyer of hot steamed white pancake to wrap the tender thin slices of duck, along with crispy cucumber shreds, fresh green onion segments... Roll it in sweet bean sauce... The more Xiao Chuchu thought about it, the more excited she became. Xiao Yunzhou and Elder Liu''s eyes were shing wildly, and their stomachs rumbled. "Ahem, um... Wei Zheng, bring your ear closer, I have something to tell you." Chapter 82 Chapter 82 "I''ve heard that Lord Liu''s son, the Vice Minister of Personnel, has developed a new method of raising ducks called ''stuffed ducks''." "The ducks have more meat and grow faster." "Is this true? First, the Emperor had his ministers tend to piglets, and now a schr is raising ducks?" "How could it not be true! The Emperor has heard of the stuffed duck technique and is hosting an all-duck banquet today at Qiu Mountain Temple with his ministers. In addition to officials, he''s providing free meals to five hundred people, and the queue stretches all the way down the mountain!" "What?!" The citizens of the capital were astonished. What were they waiting for? With free food, they had to rush! Everyone with nothing to do and free time rushed towards Qiu Mountain Temple. What? Only five hundred spots? No matter, just watching the spectacle would suffice. Even before noon when the banquet started, Qiu Mountain Temple was already packed. In the end, the Emperor''s sedan chair couldn''t make it up the mountain, so he had to carry Princess Chu Chu and walk up with his ministers. Along the way, a procession of ducks hung upside down on silver hooks, escorted by guards up the mountain. The citizens queuing at the base and the officials andmoners waiting at the top all gaped in awe. These ducks were plump and well-rounded. "So fat!" Connoisseurs could tell at a nce that these were no ordinary farm-raised ducks. These ducks had big breasts and round butts, so sturdy! "How many pounds does each duck weigh? Is this the new method the Liu Family developed?" "You must be joking! They take regr ducklings and in just ten days of hand-feeding, they get this fat?" Themoners were stunned, chattering loudly, trying to understand. The officials on the mountain, especially the Minister of Revenue, had eyes shining with greed! He turned to the Emperor, "Your Majesty, did Liu Runnian really say that from the time they hatched, it takes less than fifty days to raise ducks this plump?" Ordinarymoners couldn''t fatten their ducks this much even if they fed them for a hundred days. "What talent, Your Majesty! If the Minister Chen of Ministry of Works doesn''t want him, the Ministry of Revenue does!" Minister Jiang of the Ministry of Revenue managed money. These ducks had lots of meat, clearly fat and oily, and grew quickly - perfect to sell to the foolish Wu Yun Country. Wasn''t trade about to open between them? These ducks could make money, lots of money! "Your Majesty, where is Liu Runnian?" Minister Jiang was ready to stand up and snatch him away. Minister Chen of the Ministry of Works grimaced, quickly standing as well, "Minister Jiang, what does this have to do with you?" "Is this a matter for the Ministry of Revenue?" "The duck-raising method involves techniques and tools - whose domain is that? The Ministry of Works!" How dare he try to poach talent? At the t area behind Qiu Mountain Temple. Minister Chen, flushed, turned away and used his sleeve to cover part of his face as he addressed the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who was ying with Princess Chu Chu. "Your Majesty, Liu Runnian was personally assigned to the Ministry of Works by you." "Where is he now? This minister wishes to ask him in detail about his stuffed duck and incubation methods." Xiao Yunzhou made a sound as he yed with Chu Chu, ncing at the elderly minister. "..." Minister Chen grimaced. "Your Majesty, this minister was hasty during the morning court session." "Mm," Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand magnanimously. "No matter, this Emperor won''t hold it against you." Minister Chen smiled and nodded, giving Minister Jiang a smug look. But Xiao Yunzhou''s next words made him change expression. "You were hasty, but this Emperor is not." Xiao Yunzhou calmly put down his handkerchief. "The banquet will start soon, and Liu Runnian is helping in the kitchen. We can discuss thister." Minister Chen: "..." What could he do? He hadn''t cherished Liu Runnian before, and now he could only regret it! But soon, he had no time for regrets, as a rich aroma of oil and meat wafted from the kitchen of Qiu Mountain Temple, spreading through the mountain and making his stomach growl. Not just him, but all the other officials on the mountain, seatedmoners, andmoners lining the road trying to catch a glimpse, also smelled this enticing roasting scent. [Huh?] Even Chu Chu perked up in Xiao Yunzhou''s embrace, feeling hungry. [So fragrant ~ this smell seems familiar? It couldn''t be roasted duck, could it?] Xiao Yunzhou smiled, ncing towards the kitchen stewards carrying out dishes and Liu Runnian helping to push the carts. "Runnian, why don''t you first tell us about the duck dishes for today''s all-duck banquet?" Liu Runnian wore a schr''s robe, with soot on his sleeves and duck feathers on his shoes, smoke-stained from the kitchen fires. But his well-defined features befitted a handsome schr. Hearing the Emperor''s words, Liu Runnian spoke clearly, "In response to Your Majesty, this student coborated with vigers from nearby viges to raise these stuffed ducks, and we''ve prepared twelve courses in total." "These include berry-cured duck breast..." Chu Chu blinked, [Ah, no roasted duck... using stuffed ducks for regr duck dishes is such a waste.] Liu Runnian grimaced slightly but quickly lowered his head, pretending not to hear. "Salted duck wings..." "And the wood-roasted duck that the Kitchen Steward you appointed researched." Chu Chu''s ears perked up. [Huh?] "Mm?" Xiao Yunzhou pretended not to notice his daughter''s eager expression, asking with amusement, "Wood-roasted duck? This Emperor has never heard of that dish before." Liu the Elder, Concubine Liu, and Cheng Qian all lowered their heads simultaneously. Acting. The Emperor was really hamming it up! Xiao Yunzhou''s acting skills had been well-honed by now. To avoid arousing the suspicions of his fairy-like princess, he feigned pure interest as he looked at Liu Runnian. Liu Runnian had been busy raising ducks with farmers these past few days, his face tanned. His flush was unnoticeable, so he cleared his throat and replied, "This student has never tasted this dish either." "But Your Majesty''s Kitchen Steward, upon seeing these stuffed ducks raised by this student, said they were so plump that ordinary boiling or stewing would be a waste." [Woo, exactly, exactly!] [Stuffed ducks are rich in oils, and wood-roasting makes them sulent without being greasy ~] Chu Chu was excited. [The Emperor''s Kitchen Steward is brilliant, with such insightful wisdom!] Xiao Yunzhou suppressed augh and nodded to Liu Runnian, "Then have them served." "Yes, Your Majesty!" Liu Runnian had the guards assist, and soon, ducks with crisp golden-red skins glistening with oil were brought out from the kitchen of Qiu Mountain Temple on silver hooks, in a continuous stream. The Kitchen Steward personally led the Imperial kitchen cooks to carve slices of duck meat. [Ah, those slices are too big.] Chu Chu squinted, [They can''t fit into thin pancakes with suchrge pieces ~] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed as he quickly waved, "Cut smaller slices ¡ª¡ª!" "Large chunks of duck meat may be too tough for the elderly officials andmoners to chew!" The Emperor called out loudly. The kitchen cooks paused. The officials andmoners on the mountain and below were all stunned. "Your humble servant thanks Your Majesty for your consideration!" "This peasant is grateful for Your Majesty''s care..." "Your Majesty is so caring, even towards us with one foot in the grave..." In that moment, the elderly people were touched. Xiao Yunzhou was also moved by his own cleverness and smiled while waving his hand at the crowd, "As it should be, you are all my subjects." The elderly were about to kneel and kowtow, but they were quickly stopped. "The roast duck has arrived, elders please have a taste." "Duck meat, if the elders'' teeth cannot chew it, then give them some crispy duck skin." [Woo, the roasted duck skin with a thinyer of fragrant oil, dipped in white sugar ~ melts in your mouth ~] Chu Chu''s mouth watered. Sure enough, one of the elders received a te of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside roasted duck skin from the Imperial kitchen, and was about to put it in his mouth when Xiao Yunzhou urgently stopped him again. "The elders'' mouths mayck vor, add some seasoning." "Salt, sugar, let the elders dip it and eat." The leading elderly citizen was overwhelmed with gratitude, dipping half the crispy duck skin in salt and the other half in sugar before putting it in his mouth, and tears unexpectedly streamed down his face. "It has melted, Your Majesty..." "It has melted..." "This is the first time this old man has tasted such delicious duck meat!" "Sweet vor even better! Dipping in white sugar is superb!" Xiao Yunzhou heaved a great sigh of relief, "Good, then I shall also listen to the elders and have someone bring me white sugar and sweet bean paste!" Chapter 83 Chapter 83 At the duck banquet, the old man was fully immersed, savoring the rich yet non-greasy taste as the roasted duck melted in his mouth. Xiao Yunzhou took the opportunity to savor the duck while eavesdropping. With Xiao Chuchu nestled in his embrace, she mentally apuded him. [Who would have thought that amoner discovered the proper way to dip and eat roasted duck?] [Aww, you''re quite the gourmand, old chap!] Xiao Yunzhou let out a soft chuckle and brought a slice of duck coated in white sugar to his mouth. As he chewed, the aromatic vors burst forth. After smoking and roasting, the exterior was crisp while the interior remained tender. The meat approached the texture of frost, melting in the mouth along with the white sugar. Truly rich yet non-greasy, leaving only sweetness. The very first bite mesmerized Xiao Yunzhou, who was ustomed to the Imperial Kitchen''s fare. Not to mention the ordinarymoners who seldom indulged in such extravagance on a typical day. One bite after another, it didn''t take long for the old men to devour everyst morsel of the sulent roasted duck slices. The Imperial Kitchen''s cooks could hardly keep up with their ravenous pace! "This stuffed duck is even more fragrant than the ones I buy at the East Market!" "Juicy and tender!" "With one bite of this duck, I could cook enough dishes for an entire day!" As Xiao Yunzhou listened to themoners'' praises, his heart swelled with joy. Yet his movements with the jade chopsticks, dipping the duck slices in white sugar, slowed considerably. Although the first three bites astonished him, Xiao Yunzhou was no stranger to fine meats in the pce, and his desire for fatty foods was not as intense as themoners''. After three bites, the pleasure on his tongue began to wane. Xiao Yunzhou sipped his tea to wash down the sweetness and grease lingering in his mouth. He felt a tinge of greasiness. "You all, please eat your fill." "Servants, present my te to Liu Runnian as a reward." Xiao Yunzhou remembered Liu Runnian''s contributions. This stuffed duck was excellent in every way, except for one w ¨C it was overly fattened. As an admirer of the Dao seeking longevity, Xiao Yunzhou believed in moderating his intake. But as he set down his chopsticks, he heard a soft exmation from his embrace. [By the way, where are the thin pancakes for wrapping the roasted duck meat?] Xiao Chuchu blinked expectantly. Xiao Yunzhou let out a soft gasp, nearly forgetting that the little princess had earlier inquired about the pancakes. Although he had embraced a diet for longevity and lost interest in meat, he remained curious about the celestial realm''s cuisine and nced towards the Imperial Kitchen''s cooks. "Ahem..." Looking around, Xiao Yunzhou noticed the cooks had not prepared any pancakes, and his gaze flickered. His eyes then fell upon the graying Chancellor Fu Cha nearby. Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, "In my early years, Chancellor Fu Cha instructed me and taught me of his fondness for spring pancakes." Chancellor Fu Cha had just swallowed a bite of the exquisite, sugar-coated roasted duck skin that melted in the mouth when he heard the emperor''s words. He froze in confusion. Spring pancakes? What? Well, the emperor certainly knew how to open a random topic! At the moment, he only craved this roasted duck! Chancellor Fu Cha smiled awkwardly, then heard the emperor''s next statement. "Servants, prepare some pancakes for Chancellor Fu Cha." "..." Chancellor Fu Cha''s chopsticks stiffened. Was the emperor doing this intentionally? Because he had criticized the emperor during the morning court session, the emperor was now denying him roasted duck and offering him pancakes instead? He didn''t want that; he only desired the marvelous roasted duck that melted in the mouth! "Your Majesty, you still remember this old servant''s youthful tastes. I am deeply grateful. But my teeth are not as strong as before..." [Do you think Chancellor Fu Cha can chew the roasted duck pancakes?] [The pancakes are very thin, soft and slightly chewy when eaten hot.] Xiao Chuchu looked at Chancellor Fu Cha. [I''ve seen the chancellor gnawing on pork knuckles at home.] "..." Xiao Yunzhou suppressed augh. He then gestured to Chancellor Fu Cha with a slight nod and a smile, "I know the chancellor''s teeth are not as strong as in his prime years. Rest assured. Imperial Chef, did you hear that? The pancakes for Chancellor Fu Cha must be rolled as thin as silk paper. Serve them piping hot." Chancellor Fu Cha could no longer refuse and could only acknowledge with a twitching expression. Within the time it took to drink a cup of tea, several Imperial Chefs worked in tandem and brought out several bamboo steamers filled with paper-thin, snow-white hot pancakes. Chancellor Fu Cha looked on reluctantly. Others ate meat while he ate pancakes... how vexing. "Chancellor, give it a try." Chancellor Fu Cha sighed inwardly, unwillingly picking up a translucent, thin pancake from the steamer basket. Like wrapping a spring pancake, he reluctantly added some scallions and cucumber strips that a eunuch had brought over... Then he stole a nce at the emperor, who was still watching him intently, gritted his teeth, and slipped in two thin slices of duck meat. Akin to typical spring pancakes, he rolled it up and dipped it in the sauce dish. With some difficulty, he brought it to his mouth and took a bite. The emperor still harbored resentment against him as his former tutor. It was only natural for humans to have personal biases, and he was no exception, wanting to protect the Fu family. But heavens knew that during the morning court session, his critique of Liu Runnian held no personal agenda! For the emperor to punish him this way, denying him meat like the other ministers, truly wounded his heart. The shoulders of the aged Chancellor Fu Cha slumped further. Without enthusiasm, he brought the duck-filled pancake to his mouth and took a bite. Even if the emperor held grudges against him and denied him meat, he would still offer critiques next time... But as he thought this, it onlysted a fleeting moment ¨C Chancellor Fu Cha straightened up! His eyes widened! The slightly chewy yet soft pancake, heated to the perfect temperature, gently enveloped the crisp, tender scallions and cucumber strips. The refreshing cucumber texture momentarily collided with the perfectly roasted, fatty and lean duck slices! Coated in the sweet sauce, the vors of savory, salty, fragrant, sweet, soft, crisp, and tender unfolded in waves,yering upon one another! Chancellor Fu Cha''s eyes lit up as he swiftly devoured the entire duck-filled pancake in just two ravenous bites. Xiao Yunzhou had been observing him and was taken aback. Was it truly that delicious? A man who had always prided himself on maintaining a dignified,posed demeanor now resembled the nearby farmers in his frantic, eager manner of eating? Chancellor Fu Cha had already begun rolling his second pancake, his gaze excitedly meeting the emperor''s. He had wronged the emperor! "Your Majesty, thank you for remembering this old servant." "This duck meat, wrapped in spring pancakes, is truly exquisite!" Chancellor Fu Cha''s heart filled with regret for having misjudged the emperor. Xiao Yunzhou''s temper was fiery, but his intentions were pure. Though stern at times, Xiao Yunzhou was not a heartless, unscrupulous ruler! Overwhelmed with emotion and remorse for wrongly using the emperor, Chancellor Fu Cha spoke as if guiding the prince he had once tutored. "This pastry needs to have some shredded melon strands, with the right amount of duck meat - not too much and not too little - just enough to roll it up properly, and then dip it in the sauce to eat without any white sugar." Xiao Yunzhouughed, then raised his hand, "Alright, Chancellor Fu Cha, please make a pastry for your Emperor to try." He didn''t want to eat too much either. But as soon as he said this, the Chancellor, who had just been treating him like a student, suddenly froze with an awkward expression. "Your Majesty, you should have your own portion." "This basket only has ten pastries in total for your humble servant." Xiao Yunzhou: "???" [Hahaha~ Chancellor Fu Cha, ten pastries are not enough for you? Didn''t you just say your teeth aren''t up for it?] Xiao Chuchu was chuckling gleefully in Xiao Yunzhou''s embrace. [But it''s really delicious~] [Who would have thought that Chancellor Fu Cha discovered the proper way to eat roasted duck pastries, thanks to my Emperor father~] Xiao Yunzhou listened andughed, "Alright, since Chancellor Fu Cha enjoys it so much, let''s steam a few more baskets." "Give one pastry to eachmoner who hase here today, so they can all have a taste!" That day, not only did themoners eat happily, but even the immortality-seeking vegetarian Xiao Yunzhou ate a full nine roasted duck pastries! If Xiao Chuchu hadn''t been hungry, he would have kept going. "Oh my heavens, I''ve never eaten anything so good in my whole life!" "This isn''t duck meat, it''s like eating gold and jade." "Hey, I''m not eating anything else today, I want to keep this taste in my mouth~" Not only themoners, but even the schrs at the foot of the mountain received the roasted duck pastries and were ecstatic. Although the meat was less than enough, it was still incredibly delicious. In no time, several roasted duck poems emerged from the mouths of the students. [Hmm?] Xiao Chuchu nodded off drowsily, and her system gave her another notification. [The roasted duck earned me over 1000 points~] [Wow!] Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed, his daughter''s divine power had increased!? [Hehe, I can draw again!] [Let me see...] [Oh my, ''How to Audit a Company'', ''Fundamentals of ounting'', ''Fundamentals of Finance'' - these skill books are all about ounting and making money.] "...!" Chapter 84 Chapter 84 After the grand Duck Feast, the capital city of Jing Country was renewed with a fresh spirit. Even the less affluentmoners would visit teahouses to listen to storytellers narrate the delicious tale of the roasted duck. Students and schrs, in particr, greeted each other with questions like, "Have you tasted the roasted duck?" and "Have you heard the poetry about the Duck Banquet?"... At the court, ministers savored the taste of the roasted duck for several days. Whenever they encountered Liu Runnian, the on-duty official at the Ministry of Works, they would pause to chat with him briefly. ¡ªWhen can we buy stuffed ducks at the market? ¡ªWhen can they be mass-produced? Everyone longed to taste that delicacy again. "Go, go, get to your posts!" The Minister of Works had now abandoned his previous resistance and protected Liu Runnian like a mother hen, "Don''t disturb Liu the Worker while he''s working and researching." "Make way for Liu the Worker to think about efficient methods in this well-ventted andfortable space!" "Alright, clear the path, Liu the Worker needs to observe life and let his thoughts wander." Minister Chen had now be Liu Runnian''s guardian. After several days of this, Liu Runnian felt rather abashed, "Minister Chen, you need not go to such lengths." Minister Chen raised his hand to stop him, "You are now the duck-raising hero praised by the people, and a pir of my Ministry of Works!" "Runnian, I used to advise the Emperor against you joining the Ministry of Works. Please do not take it to heart." Minister Chen let out a sigh, "As someone who entered officialdom through the imperial examination, I wanted to follow the old ways. I was being rather narrow-minded." "But after seeing the sturdy chicks and ducklings hatched by your team, and these stuffed ducksrger than ordinary ducks, I realized... Heaven sends talented people without discrimination!" "Your methods work, and the people remember your goodness. The people don''t care whether one is a Imperial Schr or a Civil Service Degree Holder." Minister Chen had also tasted the Duck Feast that day. He witnessed themoners kneeling to thank the Emperor, tears of gratitude flowing as they savored the duck meat. Minister Chen felt more moved than when he worked at the Six Ministries¡ªthat is what it means to be an official beloved by the people. "Now that the methods for stuffing ducks are taking shape," Minister Chen looked approvingly at Liu Runnian, d in the sixth-rank official robe, "It would be a waste to have such talent merely promoting the stuffed duck project." "Your abilities should be applied to researching new things." As Minister Chen spoke, he looked expectantly at Liu Runnian, "Concubine Liu is your sister. Runnian, how about I hand over the efficient silk weaving methods that Concubine Liu has been researching?" Liu Runnian was taken aback. His sister was also researching improved silk weaving? After a moment''s thought, Liu Runnian''s brow furrowed. His sister must have heard Little Princess''s suggestions. He immediately broke into a sweat. Little Princess, even if she were a reincarnated celestial, had taken on too much! The little girl, not even three months old, had already guided her mother, her uncle, her grandfather, and her Imperial Father... Little Princess must be exhausted too, right? The more Liu Runnian thought about it, the more concerned he became for Little Princess. Even if he could only help a little, he would do his utmost for Little Princess''s sake! He could not let the little girl exhaust her efforts in vain! Whatever Little Princess had in mind, he, her uncle, would undoubtedly help her achieve it! So that when she grows up, she can live happily as the Little Princess of Jing Country. With these thoughts, Liu Runnian readily agreed, "This official will go to the Imperial Sewing Office outside the pce to discuss with Concubine Liu." "This official will give his all to make improvements to silk weaving!" Watching Liu Runnian''s retreating figure, Minister Chen took a sip of tea and sighed. Ah, the Liu family members are truly dedicated. Even for something as simple as silk weaving, he''s willing to give his all. No wonder they get promoted and raised in rank so quickly. Minister Chen marveled. ... At the Imperial Sewing Office in the capital. "Sister, your silk-reeling machine... did you get the idea from Little Princess''s..." "Brother, there are a few parts where I did listen to Little Princess''s suggestions, but others at the Ministry of Works couldn''t replicate the results." Liu Runnian and Concubine Liu were both startled when they met. They had realized the same thing. Liu Runnian took a deep breath, "Tell me again what Little Princess said about silk weaving techniques." "And show me the sketches you drew before..." Concubine Liu nodded and immediatelyplied. Then, biting her lip, she turned back and said, "Brother, Cheng Qian and I suspect that Little Princess''s suggestions have a limit." Liu Runnian was rmed. Concubine Liu lowered her voice worriedly, "Cheng Qian and I both heard Little Princess mention something about... points... She has to spend points to redeem..." "Brother, we can''t all rely on Little Princess." "We have to rely on ourselves too. Little Princess''s celestial powers may have a limit!" Liu Runnian was surprised but quickly nodded solemnly, "Sister, it''s good that you have this awareness. I intended to tell you..." "Little Princess has to guide you, guide Cheng Qian, ponder the national strength of Jing Country... and our ipetent father, and her own ipetent father..." Concubine Liu''s mouth twitched at the thought, just imagining how exhausted her daughter must be! "Brother, I know, we need to rely on ourselves too. Today, I''ll send you two cartloads of books on silk weaving that I''ve collected." Liu Runnian was taken aback. What? How many books? Two cartloads!? He hated reading the most! Liu Runnian''s face turned green, but he still clutched his chest and gritted his teeth, "Alright, I''ll read." For Little Princess''s sake, for her to have a good life in the future, for the people of Jing Country to have abundant food and clothing, he, her uncle, would read! "Yes, let me tell you Little Princess''s suggestions about silk weaving techniques. Listen carefully..." * ¡¾Borrowing and lending must be equal.¡¿ ¡¾The calction of ie and expenditure is as follows...¡¿ In the Emperor''s study. After drinking her fill of milk, Xiao Chuchuyfortably in Xiao Yunzhou''s embrace, basking in the sun. As she sunbathed, she flipped through the new ounting skills book in her mind. ¡¾ounting vouchers must include business details (including quantity, unit price, amount, etc.), relevant personnel (department heads, staff) signatures and seals.¡¿ ¡¾Invoices and other supporting documents must be attached...¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes were zed over as he listened. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead. The celestial ounting methods were so profound! He strained to understand a small portion with immense effort. But even that small portion was extremely useful! "Wei Zheng, go, summon the Minister and Vice Ministers of the Ministry of Revenue." "And call the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister too." Wei Zheng was dumbfounded. The Emperor had just dealt with the Ministry of Works, and now he was moving on to the Ministry of Revenue? This shift was too abrupt! He gave a nod of approval from the bottom of his heart to the Ministry of Revenue, and soon went out to carry out the order. Not long after, Minister Jiang of the Ministry of Revenue came, his middle-aged portly belly protruding, followed by two Vice Ministers of the Ministry of Revenue. The four Grand Secretaries also arrived, all looking puzzled. Upon seeing the Emperor, Minister Jiang rubbed his hands together, "Your Majesty, could it be that you have figured it out? Are you nning to send Liu Runnian to work at the exchange workshop with Wu Yun Country?" "Your subject has long said that a talent like Liu Runnian is well-suited for our Ministry of Revenue." Minister Jiang''s face was ruddy, evidently benefiting from his regr nourishing supplements. Wei Zheng gave him a nce and shook his head sympathetically in his heart. Sure enough, the next moment, Xiao Yunzhou posed a question. "Ministry of Revenue, tell us, how many taels of silver are in surplus in the national treasury this year?" Minister Jiang was taken aback, caught off guard by the sudden question. As he was pondering, he was soon left dumbfounded by a barrage of questions from Xiao Yunzhou! "What is the total cash inflow and outflow for the national treasury this year, and what are the major sources of revenue and expenditure..." "What are the profits of Jing Country''s major industries?" "What are the investment returns?" What? What was that? Minister Jiang of the Ministry of Revenue opened his mouth, but stood there like a wooden chicken. What on earth was the Emperor talking about?! Chapter 85 Chapter 85 Xiao Yunzhou looked at the dazed Minister of Revenue Jiang Li in front of him, and lightly cleared his throat. He nced towards the direction of the warm chamber of Chonghua Pce, where his beloved daughter had already been carried away by her nursemaid to be breastfed and lulled to sleep. Xiao Yunzhou could now begin his act! He scanned the three officials from the Revenue Ministry and the four senior ministers of the Grand Secretariat, and then closed his eyes. "Jiang Li, are you the Minister of Revenue, or am I the Emperor?" Xiao Yunzhou now gave these ministers a major test every ten days and a lecture every five days. He had be addicted to it, no, he was doing it for the national strength of Jing Country, to whip these ministers into shape! "When I ask you about matters of the Revenue Ministry, why are you staring at me in a daze?" Minister of Revenue Jiang Li felt like he had been wronged. "Your Majesty, you said... matters of the Revenue Ministry?" He had never heard of those terms before! What cash flow, what return on investment? What were those? He had been in the Revenue Ministry for twenty years, having just been promoted to Minister three years ago. This was the first time he had heard of such things! "Hmph!" Xiao Yunzhou wanted to m the table again, but this time he restrained himself, looking towards the Grand Secretariat ministers, especially Prime Minister Fucha. "Why am I even the Emperor? I might as well be the Minister of Works and the Minister of Revenue myself!" "..." The officials in the study room twitched their mouths. "I''ll take care of the Ministry of Works'' matters myself." "I''ll take care of flood control and epidemic matters myself." "And now, even the Revenue Ministry''s ounting matters, I have to handle personally!" "Jiang Li, can you sleep at night?" Minister of Revenue Jiang Li opened his mouth, then closed it again, his face reddening as he suddenly knelt down. "It is my ipetence, I humbly request Your Majesty to enlighten me, what is cash flow..." Xiao Yunzhou sighed, "I have to manage everything, with countless matters of state, and still have to teach you all." "What a sin, being this kind of Emperor..." "..." Jiang Li, Prime Minister Fucha, and the other senior ministers all felt their temples throbbing. The Emperor was bing more and more arrogant by the day, what was going on! Just a few days ago, he was quite happy when eating the roasted duck. But now, after such a short time, he had another outburst. And yet, no one could stop him. Because the Emperor now... had some capabilities! "Ahem, Your Majesty, this old minister has also never heard of the terms you just mentioned," Prime Minister Fucha decisively cut off the Emperor''s arrogance, urging him not to beat around the bush anymore. "If it is beneficial to the Revenue Ministry, themon people will likely have a good year next year." "Mmm," Xiao Yunzhou followed the flow and felt relieved, nodding as he turned to Jiang Li. "Wei Zheng, read to Minister Jiang what I''ve written." Saying that, Xiao Yunzhou returned to his desk and sat down, picking up his tea cup and sipping it slowly. Jiang Li''s brows twitched. Wei Zheng had already begun reciting, "Cash flow refers to the outflow and inflow of silver from the national treasury." "It reflects our country Jing''s ability to circte silver in the treasury." At first, Jiang Li felt a little resentful, thinking the Emperor had been lecturing them to assert his authority for no good reason. But after Wei Zheng''s first sentence, Jiang Li''s neck stiffened. The ability to circte silver? That phrase was really fresh, but it hit the nail on the head! What was the Revenue Ministry''s current problem? It was theck of avable silver! And wasn''t the goal to get the silver circting? Wei Zheng continued reciting, "If our national treasury cannot recover ounts receivable in a timely manner... it will lead to a shortage and crisis of silver." At this point, not only Jiang Li, but the other two Vice Ministers of Revenue also had their eyes light up. That hit the mark, that description hit the mark! And then what? "Your Majesty, by studying this cash flow, can we resolve the Revenue Ministry''s biggest issue of silver shortage?" Jiang Li could no longer hold back and urgently asked the question. Theck of silver in the national treasury was keeping him up at night. As the new year was approaching, the ministries of Military, Works, Personnel... were alling to the Revenue Ministry asking for money! Jiang Li was invited to banquets every day, damn it, they all just wanted to ask him for money! Jiang Li''s belly had grown bigger, and his head had gone bald. There was no money! "Your Majesty, you have a solution now?" Jiang Li looked at Xiao Yunzhou with excitement. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, signaling Wei Zheng to continue reciting. Jiang Li was getting impatient, but as he listened further, he leaned forward more and more. He almost wanted to move right up to the Emperor''s desk, wishing he could take the papers and writing tools on the Emperor''s desk and record everything! --Cash Flow Statement --Bnce Sheet --Annual Profit Statement Ah... Why didn''t the Emperor tell him about these earlier... "Why didn''t Your Majesty tell me about these earlier!" Jiang Li beat his chest in frustration! Otherwise, the Revenue Ministry would not have ended up in this state, would not have ended up in this state! How could I not have told you earlier! Xiao Yunzhou''s expression stiffened as he confidently drank his tea, mming the cup down to cover his own embarrassment. I didn''t hear Little Princess Xiao Chuchu mention these either! "Fool, you dare me me now." "Why don''t you reflect on yourself, whether you have been diligent in your work at the Revenue Ministry all these years." "After so many years, you haven''t even researched any methods to manage the national treasury or keep ounts!" "..." Jiang Li opened his mouth. Damn it, he had identally said out loud what was on his mind! "Your Majesty, I... I didn''t mean it that way." "I only felt that what Your Majesty said was too useful." "If the Revenue Ministry had been using these cash flow statements, profit statements, and bnce sheets earlier, we would have a clear understanding of where the silver in our national treasury was going, and where to focus our efforts." The other ministries like Works, Military... wouldn''t need to invite him to banquets anymore. Inviting him to banquets was useless! --Just submit the profit forecast for your projects, any that don''t make money can scram! Jiang Li couldn''t help but smile radiantly. "Mmm," Xiao Yunzhou saw that Wei Zheng had recited most of it, and didn''t forget to remind Jiang Li, "Your Revenue Ministry cannot just be responsible for handing out silver." "You also need to check whether this silver is being used for its designated purposes." For instance, in river dredging projects, some greedy people had skimped on materials and pocketed the money, causing the substandard river banks to copse soon after. "Jiang Li, for every sum of silver your ministry hands out, you should monitor it until the project''spletion, andpare it against the budget to thoroughly investigate the return on investment." "Then there won''t be so many people deceiving me and the people." Jiang Li let out an "ah" sound. The other two Vice Ministers of Revenue also had increasingly bright looks in their eyes. So the Revenue Ministry had such an important role! "Your Majesty is truly... wise!" The three Revenue Ministry officials were convinced and sincere. "This minister is not as wise as Your Majesty." Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, it was nothing. I only have an intelligence of eighty-eight. Ah, I don''t know how much more sheep''s milk and eggs I need to consume to gain two more points of intelligence like the Fifth Prince. Little Princess said those ounting knowledge bits, but he only barely understood a small part of them. "s, weck capable people." "With just my effort alone, I can onlye up with one or two methods, but cannot devise aplete strategy." Xiao Yunzhou sighed, "You can''t all just rely on me." The three ministers from the Revenue Department blushed. The four senior officials in the Cab also fell silent. Especially Fucha, the senior official, he felt that every time he woke up from a sleep recently, the emperor had changed. Now, he could hardly even recognize the once naive crown prince student of his! "By the way, Your Majesty, how did youe up with these ideas?" Jiang Li asked curiously. "Your Majesty, could you please share with me, so that I can strive to improve myself in that direction and keep up with Your Majesty''s pace!" "..." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s motion of raising the teacup slowed down for a beat. He coughed heavily with reddened ears, "It''s nothing, just that I have the people in my heart!" The three Revenue ministers and four Cab officials were all taken aback. Xiao Yunzhou blushed and nced at the warm chamber where his beloved daughter was napping, gesturing for them to keep quiet. "Enough, stop ttering me." "I don''t buy that nonsense." "..." "Now, I want to talk about how to address the shortage of silver in the national treasury in the short term." Jiang Li abruptly lifted his head, there''s really a solution?! Xiao Yunzhou looked at the seven officials in the study mysteriously and lowered his voice. "I want to borrow money from the people." "I want to establish the Jing Country Bank." The Revenue and Cab ministers simultaneously looked up! [Meow, how long have I slept, sofortable~] Xiao Chuchu woke up in the warm chamber''s rocking bed, mewling as she stretched her littlezy body. She had haphazardly used her system points to purchase the live stream of Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s study. [Let me take a look at what the emperor father is up to...] [I want to go back to mother''s side~ It''s so boring here~] But as soon as she saw Xiao Yunzhou''s current scene, Xiao Chuchu was stunned. [Wow, modern banking has been conceived?] [Who came up with this? Awesome!] Xiao Yunzhou, who was about to expound in the study, suddenly froze. Chapter 86 Chapter 86 [Whoa, that''s brilliant! He even came up with the idea of borrowing from themon people!] [Isn''t this just national debt?] Xiao Yunzhou''s lips twitched, his daughter had awoken. Oh dear, he had to restrain himself a bit, he couldn''t let his daughter find out he could hear her thoughts, or it might frighten the child. "Your Majesty, what do you mean by borrowing from themon people?" Jiang Li of the Ministry of Revenue thought he must have misheard. [Ah, so this method was the Emperor Father''s idea?] Xiao Chuchu''s astonished thoughts transmitted directly into the study from the adjacent room. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression shifted as he observed the startled Jiang Li, instantly feeling impatient. "Ahem, always asking questions!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face hardened, "I have cooked the meal and served it to you, yet you still don''t know how to eat it!" "Do you expect me to feed each of you bite by bite?" Jiang Li blushed, and the two vice ministers of the Ministry of Revenue felt their ears burning hot. Finally, having worked in the Ministry of Revenue for many years, Jiang Li had some financial acumen, "Your Majesty means that since Jing Country has arge poption, if each person lends one coin to the imperial treasury, we could umte millions of taels?" Just recently, the one million taels of silver from the bribes taken by Ritual Master Xu had been confiscated for public use, but it hadn''t even warmed the Ministry of Revenue before it was divided up in just a few days. There was money needed to repair the Yellow River''s embankment breach. Concubine Liu needed funds to sew winter clothes. The Imperial Academy of Medicine required money to treat refugees suffering from gue. And there were military provisions, purchasing warhorses... Opening up trade routes, buyingmb meat... Just thinking about it gave Jiang Li a headache. "Your Majesty, so you''ve set your sights on themon people''s purses?" Jiang Li thought to himself, casting a mournful nce towards the Emperor. "But we already collect heavy taxes from them." "And now you''vee up with this new scheme of asking the people to lend money... s, it''s difficult!" Themon folk are naive! If they have money, wouldn''t they rather keep the doors shut and eat meat themselves? They don''t even have enough to buy meat, and you want them to lend to the Emperor? Hmph, they''d consider lending even a single coin too much! Unless it''s soldiers and officials holding knives to their doors, forcing them. "This will likely cause discontent among the people, Your Majesty should reconsider," the Vice Chancellor Shen Liang frowned as he cautioned. Since ancient times, people borrow when in urgent need, not when destitute. "Even if the people have money in hand, they would carefully consider lending even to rtives, let alone lending to the court?" Jiang Li nodded vigorously, "Indeed. Oppressive taxes are crueler than tigers, Your Majesty should reconsider!" Xiao Yunzhou was given such a lecture that his head started to ache, and he reached up to massage his temples. [Woo, that''s true, so we should offer the people interest!] Xiao Chuchu eximed urgently from the next room. Xiao Yunzhou heard her and nodded to himself, turning to Chancellor Fu Cha, "Chancellor, do you recall the painting you gifted me when I was still the Crown Prince?" Chancellor Fu Cha was momentarily stunned, "The one from your birthday that year?" "Yes," Xiao Yunzhou nodded. "At the time, the Empress Dowager taught me to be grateful for gifts from teachers, and to reciprocate." "So the next day, I transcribed a poem to present back to you, Chancellor." Chancellor Fu Cha''s gaze flickered as he recalled that warm teacher-student memory. But what did bringing this up now mean? Even if he had wholeheartedly served the Crown Prince back then, now as the Chief Chancellor, he could not endorse the Emperor''s tyrannical policy of forcing the people to hand over their money to fill the imperial treasury. But just as Chancellor Fu Cha was steeling himself to firmly advise against it, he heard Xiao Yunzhou continue. "Later on, you were indeed delighted to receive my calligraphy. For three years after, you continued gifting me paintings for my birthday." Chancellor Fu Cha paused, "Your Majesty, you mean..." Xiao Yunzhou nodded, his gaze drifting to the distant sunset as he struck a pensive pose. "When the people lend money to the court." "The court should also express gratitude by offering something in return to the people, for example, if they lend one hundred coins, I will return one hundred and twenty coins to them after one year." Jiang Li''s mouth fell open. "The Jing Country court will serve as the guarantor." Xiao Yunzhou leaned forward. "As long as Jing Country does not perish, we will definitely return the people''s money along with the interest." "Even if I am no longer here, the new Emperor will honor the debt contracts as proof and act ordingly." "The longer the loan period, the more interest the people can receive." The Chancellors and Ministry of Revenue officials in the study all stared wide-eyed. None of them had ever considered asking the people to lend money in the past. But now hearing about this interest, it did seem quite possible! "How about this, Chancellor, if I were to borrow one hundred taels from you to purchase military provisions, with a written contract promising to return one hundred and twenty taels after one year, would you be willing?" Xiao Yunzhou looked at them. The four Chancellors'' mouths twitched. What reason would there be for unwillingness? An immediate twenty tael profit. Money breeding money is far more useful than letting it sit idle at home! "Your Majesty, this subject is willing to lend to you!" Jiang Li excitedly took the lead. "Your Majesty, this national debt scheme is truly remarkable." "How did Your Majestye up with it?" [Woo, yes, how did the Emperor Father think of it...] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but wonder, her thoughts echoing the question. "..." How did hee up with it? Xiao Yunzhou cast a mournful nce at Jiang Li. Naturally, it was from hearing Princess Chuchu''s thoughts - ''Foundations of Modern Finance''. But could he say that? Could he reveal such celestial secrets to this group whose contributions to the world were negligible? s. You allck the karmic destiny to receive such celestial blessings. "Ahem, did I not draw inspiration from the method of force-feeding ducks the other day?" Xiao Yunzhou tantly lied. "Ducks are fed four meals a day, eating a lot which gets stored in their bodies as more meat and fat." "Seeing this made me think of how you few have been eating well..." Ahem, no, "I mean, made me realize that after receiving sries for many years, your family wealth must have umted quite a lot." The Ministry of Revenue trio and the four Vice Chancellors opened their mouths wide. Was he insinuating something? The Emperor just called them fattened ducks? No, the Emperor was jealous of their substantial family fortunes! The Emperor had his sights set on their private wealth! The officials were well-fed and plump while the imperial treasurycked funds to provision the troops... So the Emperor thought to ask them for loans, didn''t he! Jiang Li of the Ministry of Revenue nearly fainted. He immediately turned pale, kneeling down and kowtowing, "Your Majesty is wise! If Your Majesty establishes a national debt, this subject will be the first to respond!" "This subject will definitely bring out all the idle cash from home to support the urgent needs of the imperial treasury!" [Ah, I see, the Emperor Father conceived the idea of national debt from the duck force-feeding, impressive my Father!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but apud in her heart. Xiao Yunzhou heaved a huge sigh of relief, his back damp with nervous sweat. It was fortunate that he, the Emperor Father, was so resourceful. "Hmm, Chancellor Fu Cha made a good point earlier," Xiao Yunzhou recalled the thoughts of his daughter Xiao Chuchu. "We should borrow when there''s urgency, not when we''re poor. State debts should notst too long either, only to resolve a few months or a year or two of dire needs." "So I was thinking, in addition to state debts, we should introduce another policy wheremon people can deposit and withdraw money from the state treasury at any time." The ministers in the study room were stunned. Xiao Chuchu, however, was excited. [Woof, this is like a bank deposit service!] [Some people don''t like risks. When they hear about lending money, they get headaches and are unwilling to do so. But depositing money carries lower risks with principal protection, so they feel more at ease.] Xiao Yunzhou nodded inwardly as he listened, turning to the ministers in the study room. "Jiang Li, would you be willing to deposit money with me?" "I''ll pay you interest monthly. You can deposit for a month or a hundred years, whatever you wish." Jiang Li: "......" The Emperor is really something! As he listened, he felt a little... tempted. Three dayster, imperial edicts were posted on the city gates of the capital. The people who saw them were astonished! Chapter 87 Chapter 87 What nonsense is this? Is the Emperor giving them money to make more money? "If I give the Emperor ten coins, will he give me twelve coins back after a year?" "This... if I give the Emperor ten taels, wouldn''t that be earning two taels for free in a year!?" Themoners stared at the Imperial edict in astonishment. They had never heard of such a good thing before. Not only did the Emperor send ministers to the countryside to teach them how to tend to sows and piglets, but he was also handing out money to them for no reason? In the past, they had only ever paid taxes to the court! Themoners could hardly believe it. At this moment, with the sun three hours high, thetest Imperial edict had been posted at all the city gates of the capital. Not only that, but soldiers and provincial governors were also rushing with the Imperial edict and decree, carrying them to all regions. "The capital will try out this policy first, and then other regions will follow suit." "The Jing Country Bank currently offers two main services: national debt and savings deposits." "The former has a minimum term of three months, while thetter can be withdrawn at any time." "The former offers higher interest rates." In front of the Imperial edict, there were minor officials exining the Bank''s policies. Xiao Yunzhou and the ministers of the Ministry of Revenue were afraid that manymoners could not read or understand the meaning of the Jing Country Bank, so they specifically sent people to exin it to themoners. For the first time, themoners felt respected! If they didn''t understand something, they could ask questions on the spot. "The longest term for national debt is three years. What if we can''t get our money back after three years?" "Can we just show this certificate and get our money back from the Bank on the same day?" "Is this really true!? What if we hit a famine year, will the national treasury have enough money for all of us?" "We won''t lose our principal, right?" Themoners'' biggest concerns were whether they could get their principal back, and whether the interest rates would be as high as promised. It was not easy for ordinary folks and farmers to save up a little, so they were afraid of suddenly encountering an emergency with no money to use. But the court was the court, backed by the Emperor and ministers, which was much better than lending money to a poor rtive. Most importantly, they paid interest, and quite a handsome amount! "Don''t worry, elders, each national debt certificate and savings deposit certificate has the Emperor''s and the Ministry of Revenue''s seals on it." The minor officials on the scene showed themoners the national debt and savings deposit certificates. "Two copies each, with serial numbers, so when you take them to the Bankter, your copy can be checked against the Bank''s copy, leaving no room for deception." "If you still don''t believe it, you can observe for a while and see how others deposit and withdraw before deciding." When themoners heard this, they were swayed, "These have the Emperor''s seal?" The minor officials in front of the Imperial edict all smiled, "Yes. But this is all voluntary, so you elders can consider it further." When themoners heard "consider further," they became anxious instead of rxed. "Why do we need to consider it further?" "Hey, if this is giving twelve for ten, is there a limit? Firste, first served? What if there''s none left for those whoeter?" The minor official smiled, "That possibility can''t be ruled out. After all, the capital is only the trial run. The interest rates may be loweredter on." "Oh no!" Themoners panicked! In the crowd, Xiao Yunzhou secretly carried Little Princess Chu Chu out of the pce in in clothes to observe themoners'' reactions to the Jing Country Bank. Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue stood beside him. They were both a little nervous. Today was the first day the Imperial edict had been posted, and there were only four Jing Country Banks set up in the capital. Each one was located near a city gate, not in the central part of the imperial city. For themoners living in the city, depositing and withdrawing money was not very convenient. However, since this was just the initial implementation, Xiao Yunzhou had no confidence and set the Bank locations near the city gates. If the implementation failed, they could use the excuse of an inconvenient location. Xiao Yunzhou thought about it and looked down at his beloved daughter Chu Chu, who was wearing a little red cotton jacket and cradled in his arms. Ah. If the banking system from the celestial realm failed to take root in Jing Country, it would be Jing Country''s problem, not the celestial realm''s! The fault would lie with him as the Emperor for not doing it properly. Xiao Yunzhou thought and looked at Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue with utmost sincerity, "Have you and the minor officials exining the national debt and savings deposits in front of the Imperial edict made it clear? You must not coerce themoners, and you must exin all the pros and cons to them." His daughter said that the most important thing for a bank is to gain the trust of themoners! Jiang Li, with a middle-aged belly sticking out, was already drenched in sweat, "Your Majesty... I mean, Xiao sir, rest assured, we would never deceive themoners in the slightest." Xiao Yunzhou nodded. [I wonder how much money our national bank will receive on the first day!] Chu Chu was excited. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath as they stood in front of the Bank near the West City Gate. This Bank was set up in less than three days, originally an unsessful calligraphy and painting shop. After the Ministry of Revenue rented it, Xiao Yunzhou had it decorated ording to Little Princess''s wishes. ¡ªThe celestial realm meant that this national bank must treat themoners like deities, probably meaning to respect themoners like gods. But at this moment, Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Jing Country Bank, decorated with red silk banners for its opening day, and couldn''t bear to look directly at it. The front hall was deserted, with hardly anyone entering the Bank... such a bleak scene, he didn''t even want Little Princess to see it for fear of disappointing her. "Ah, Your Majesty... ahem, I mean, Xiao sir, our Bank has customersing in!" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue eximed excitedly. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened as he expectantly looked over while holding Chu Chu. But as soon as he saw, both he and the little one craning her neck in his arms let out a disappointed whine. [Oh, I thought it wasmoners, but it''s just my mother and grandmother!] Xiao Yunzhou sighed as he saw clearly. At the Bank''s entrance, it was indeed Concubine Liu and Old Madam of the Liu Family, walking in hand-in-hand, the first to enter. Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes. Concubine Liu was a good one. No matter what new thing it was, she always supported him as the Emperor. How much savings could a pce consort have? Yet she was wholeheartedly trying to support him by taking out her money. Ah. The Liu Family''s small, run-down courtyard didn''t have much silver either. Xiao Yunzhou was touched. Compared to the Liu Family and Concubine Liu, the wealthy Tong Family, the Empress, and all the civil and military officials of the court seemed unsympathetic! "Ah, Xiao sir, more people are entering the Bank!" Xiao Yunzhou immediately perked up again, only to be disappointed once more. The second batch of people entering the Bank was none other than the virtuous Lady Min Rou, granddaughter-inw of the Zhou family whom he had once saved! Xiao Yunzhou shook his head. This woman was also doing it out of respect for him, not as an ordinarymoner. But Lady Min was also a good one. Xiao Yunzhou silently noted the Liu Family and Lady Min as those who helped him when he was in need. Then, he erupted in silence. "Not a single civil or military official in the entire court supports me... ahem, supports the Jing Country Bank?" The Minister of Revenue, Xiao Yunzhou, wiped the sweat from his brow, "Our Ministry of Revenue has already deposited money in the bank, Lord Xiao." Xiao Yunzhou fell silent. The Minister of Revenue was the one who had pushed for the establishment of this bank! What use was it if only they deposited money? How many people was that!? It was a mere drop in the bucket. But not long after, the Minister of Revenue, Jiang Li, excitedly cried out again, "Hey, hey, Your Majesty, there are more people¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou was furious and turned to scold him, "You are at least a second-rank official, yet you make a fuss over every little thing. Where is your dignity?" "It''s just that the bank has one or two customers, and you''re shouting about it." "Look at how unsophisticated you are!" "Useless!" Minister Jiang Li gritted his teeth, "No, it''s not that, this time it''s not just one..." Emperor Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, exasperated. If I trust Jiang Li again, I''m a pig! He, as the Emperor, had realized that it was not so easy for themon folk to take their spare money and deposit it, nor to trust the failing state of Jing Country. "No, Lord Xiao, this time it''s true..." Xiao Yunzhou smiled bitterly, but only for an instant. [Oh my god, a huge crowd ofmoners is rushing to the bank! Oh no, the bank''s entrance is too small! It''s about to be trampled down!] Chu Chu''s soft, sweet voice suddenly echoed in Xiao Yunzhou''s mind! Xiao Yunzhou whipped his head around and looked towards the remote location of Jing Country''s first bank in the western part of the city. There he saw¡ª The bank''s doorstep was indeed about to be trampled down by four or five people trying to squeeze in at the same time! Not only that, outside the bank, there was now a long queue ofmoners! In the blink of an eye, the line kept growing longer, even turning the corner to another street! "Can I deposit just ten coins to try it out first?" "Can I just deposit for one month? Will you ept two copper coins?" "Can Ie and deposit one copper coin every month?" Chapter 88 Chapter 88 Themon folk had some spare cash, but not much. Especially when faced with the unknown and potential risks, they were more cautious with their purses. But when the first batch of Jing Country Banks opened, they got a bit carried away! They had initially thought these banks would be simr to grain shops. But little did they know that as soon as they entered, they were almost scared out of their wits - on the first and second floors of these banks stood sword-wielding soldiers with cold expressions! Six soldiers per floor, standing inside the bank like guardians, their roving gaze constantly inspecting every person who entered the bank! "Oh my, what''s going on here?" "I didn''t break anyws, did I..." "I hope I don''t say anything wrong and end up in jail!" Themon folk, some carrying a few coins and others just wanting to take a look, were instantly flustered. When a schr encounters soldiers, even with reason on their side, they can''t exin themselves clearly. What more for these ordinary people? But soon, the smiling managers in the bank''s main hall came out to reassure them, "Aunties and uncles, these elite soldiers were hand-picked by our emperor himself." "They''re not here to apprehend you, but to guard the silver you deposit in our bank." "!" Themoners stared in amazement. Well, they certainly didn''t expect this answer. Hugging Xiao Chuchu close and having barely squeezed into the bank, Xiao Yunzhou and Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue watched secretly from a corner. [Woo-woo, the emperor is so clever, he''s even arranged bank guards!] Xiao Chuchu was overjoyed. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile, for he had heard his daughter''s thoughts! "Lord Xiao, how wise!" Jiang Li took the opportunity to tter the emperor. Xiao Yunzhou beamed with pride as he looked towards the bank''s general manager. As expected, the bank''s general manager, having been trained by the Ministry of Revenue, said to the astonishedmoners, "This is the emperor''s instruction." "The emperor thought, ''If I had to entrust my dearest little princess to strangers for three days, I would be utterly restless.''" "So today, uncles and aunties, when you take out the silver you''ve saved for half your lives - your life''s most precious savings - to deposit in our Jing Country Bank, you must be uneasy." "Therefore, our bank must guard every single coin of yours." This speech by the bank''s general manager was based on the words Xiao Yunzhou had devised after hearing his daughter''s thoughts and taught to the Ministry of Revenue. "With this, uncles and aunties, you can go home and rest assured every day." "- Your silver is being guarded day and night by Jing Country''s elite soldiers!" "These soldiers have been on the battlefields and won victories, worth three times their number, without a doubt." Oh my, goodness me. Themoners in the bank were awestruck. Depositing their silver in this bank means it will be guarded day and night by battle-hardened soldiers! When they kept their silver at home, they didn''t have such luxury... at best, they hid it in their shoes, walls, or pillows. If thieves broke in while they were out working, they were helpless. "How can there be such a good thing?" Those with outgoing personalities were already eximing loudly, "Not only do they provide guards to watch our money, but they also give us interest?" "Oh yes, in front of the imperial bulletin earlier, if you had said soldiers would guard our money, I would have gone home to get more money right away!" This guarding service isn''t free, so why not take advantage of it? The manager chuckled, "No need to rush, madam, you can deposit a sum first ande back next time." "Oh, and if you deposit ten taels or more, you''ll be considered a VIP guest of our bank." "You can go to the second floor for tea, and have a dedicated manager provide one-on-one service." "You can ask about your principal and interest at any time, how much you currently have." Themoners blinked, this was truly reassuring. "Additionally, VIP guests can check the daily prices of meat, vegetables, cloth, and grain in the eastern and western markets of the capital and neighboring cities." "We also provide price predictions for the following day''s meat, vegetables, cloth, and rice in the regional markets." Themoners were dumbfounded. Wow, there''s even such a good thing? Depositing money and getting all these services? Knowing the prices in various markets today and the next day, they won''t be deceived by merchants! So reassuring, too reassuring. [Oh my, the emperor has even started controlling market prices!] Xiao Chuchu was amazed. Xiao Yunzhou smiled, for he had studied the basics of finance from the immortal realm! [This will greatly reduce unscrupulous merchants,] Xiao Chuchu remarked, [they won''t be able to make dishonest profits.] Xiao Yunzhou nodded in agreement. "Then I''ll go home and get some money to deposit..." "Hey, let me deposit ten coins first, no, fifty coins!" "I don''t have ten taels now, but if I save up to ten taels, do I count as a VIP?" In an instant, the bank''s managers, cashiers, and staff were surrounded bymoners. Xiao Yunzhou, holding his daughter, was eventually pushed out of the bank along with Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue. He had nned to wait at a tea house for the bank''s final revenue amount, but even as night fell, the bank was still bustling with people. Not onlymoners, but even wealthy merchants who were initially just observing also sent servants to deposit money and buy government bonds. "Lord Xiao, one hundred thousand taels have already been deposited!" "Lord Xiao, the owners of the neighboring grain shops have alle to buy government bonds and deposit money, depositing one million taels!" Traveling merchants, who usually had idle cash, also came to buy three-month government bonds or depositrge sums! "Lord Xiao, one million five hundred thousand taels now!" And this was just the first day. Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue was so excited his hands were shaking. Xiao Yunzhou, standing at a tea house across from the bank, was also excitedly moved to tears. "Jiang Li, you previously wanted to sell foie gras to Wuyun Country, butrge-scale foie gras farming would require a considerable amount of feed and silver." "Transporting it to the grasnds, with stops at ry stations in between, would also be costly." "Previously, the national treasury didn''t have enough silver for you to pursue this venture, but now..." Xiao Yunzhou gripped the railing of the tea house, watching asmoners came and went from the Jing Country Bank, feeling a surge of grand ambition. "We have money now!" Jiang Li was deeply moved, "Your Majesty..." He was even moved to tears. So this was it, the emperor had long been thinking of ways for the Ministry of Revenue to make money! How brilliant, truly brilliant! First borrow money from the people in the short term, invest it in profitable projects, and then return it to the people once profits are made! The silver in Jing Country''s national treasury has started circting! "Your Majesty, I am no match for you," Jiang Li vowed to keep up with the emperor''s pace. Xiao Yunzhou smiled, "ttery, I don''t like it." "..." Jiang Li''s mouth twitched, the emperor was truly aloof, even though he was clearly pleased! Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly and nced at the little princess. "Jiang Li, the money given by themon people should be used on the de. Apart from necessary expenditures like military provisions, don''t undertake or minimize undertakings that don''t yield returns for the people of Jing Country." "Otherwise, you''ll have to return the money to the people." "...!" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue immediately became alert. The money collected had to be returned to the people with interest! It couldn''t be used recklessly! "This minister will not ck off. I will go back to the Ministry of Revenue and review the project application forms for funds from various departments." "Any projects that are unqualified or unprofitable, the Ministry of Revenue will not provide funds!" * That evening, the pce consorts heard about therge sum of money collected in the national treasury and were overjoyed. Consorts like the birth mother of the Fourth Prince, the foster mother of the Fifth Prince, and Consort Li were delighted. If her son, the Fourth Prince, was fortunate enough to ascend the throne, a wealthy national treasury would be a boon. Even if her son did not be emperor and ended up as an idle prince, a wealthy national treasury would still be beneficial. "Cui Ming, go to the kitchen and request three days'' worth of rice porridge with bird''s nest and ginseng. I need to nourish my body." She needed to live long to enjoy prosperity with the Fourth Prince. Consort Li was in a great mood. The pce maid promptly went to carry out the order. But soon, she returned with a pale face. "Your Ladyship, the kitchen says they don''t have it." "What?" "The kitchen went to purchase supplies today and asked the Internal Affairs Department for silver. But the Internal Affairs Department said that any monthly purchases over a hundred taels by the kitchen would require a profit projection report." "What??" Consort Li was dumbfounded. "What kind of thing is that?" The pce maid spread her hands helplessly. "It''s a new rule from the Ministry of Revenue. They say that for you to consume bird''s nest worth a hundred taels, they need an estimated profit first." Consort Li stared in disbelief. Chapter 89 Chapter 89 "What benefits can I get from consuming bird''s nest made with blood?" Consort Li was puzzled. Lately, Concubine Liu gained favor, and the Empress''s father returned home to farm, both their prestige was at its peak. So, is she, a dignified consort, being overlooked?! She is the imperial consort who has raised a prince! If she does not even qualify for the ginseng bird''s nest, who in the world does? "Your Majesty, the Ministry of Revenue and the Internal Affairs Department do not regard me or the fourth prince as important!" Late at night, Consort Li hastily brought her pce maid to the Chonghua Pce, where the emperor was resting, and indignantly presented herself! She cannot be wronged, otherwise, the fourth prince will also be belittled. Moreover, her dignity is being trampled on, how can she govern the two concubines who live with her? "Your Majesty, you must uphold justice for me!" It was almost midnight, Xiao Yunzhou was still reviewing the memorials sent by the Ministry of Revenue, discussing with Jiang Li how to use the people''s savings. Suddenly, he was interrupted by Consort Li''s mor. Xiao Yunzhou was speechless, "What happened?" The Minister of Revenue, Jiang Li, yawned awkwardly. As soon as Consort Li entered the study of the Chonghua Pce, she gave him a stern look of reprimand. "Is Minister Jiang also here?" "Do I need to greet Minister Jiang as well? Do I need to kneel to Minister Jiang?" Jiang Li, from the Ministry of Revenue, awkwardly looked at the emperor. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand at him, "You go sit on the side and rest for a while." Consort Li red. Only then did Xiao Yunzhou turn to her, "What''s the matter, why aren''t you asleep at thiste hour?" Consort Li took a deep breath and respectfully bowed to the emperor, "Your Majesty, don''t I always feel cold, with icy hands and feet? The Imperial Hospital has always said that I should nourish my health in winter." "Today the north wind is howling, so I asked the kitchen to prepare some bird''s nest porridge with ginseng, thinking of nourishing my body for a few days." "Who would have thought," Consort Li gave Jiang Li a big white eye, "The people from the Internal Affairs Department said the Ministry of Revenue did not agree and asked me to fill out some kind of profit expectation table for using bird''s nest." "Your Majesty," Consort Li stamped her foot, looking coquettishly at the emperor, "Aren''t these servants looking down on me?" "What profits can there be from a nourishing food? Is it not a profit if I am healthy?" "Do they think I am not worthy?" Consort Li fiercely criticized the Ministry of Revenue and the Internal Affairs Department, but just as she was sobbing andining halfway, she heard Emperor Xiao Yunzhou actually grunt in agreement. He nodded at her very affirmatively, "Indeed, Consort Li, you eating bird''s nest does not bring any benefits, so stop eating it, okay?" Consort Li: "???" She almost doubted if she heard it wrong. "Your Majesty, what... did you say..." In the past, the emperor loved Taoism and was not particrly interested ining to the harem, at most he was fickle. Now, the emperor must have cultivated the Way of Indifference! "Do you think my health is not important, Your Majesty?" Consort Li was born gorgeous and charming in her youth, and now with proper maintenance, she is still an unparalleled beauty, not losing to her past self. At this moment, her eyes were filled with tears, looking pitifully at Xiao Yunzhou. Her voice could even melt half the bones of a regr man! But Xiao Yunzhou, after hearing her for a while, almost directly nodded in agreement. Fortunately, he held back. He was not that heartless yet. "If you are sick, take the medicine, see the Imperial Physician if you must, why eat bird''s nest?" "???" Consort Li looked up in disbelief. Xiao Yunzhou exined to her, "If you really have insufficient blood, aren''t there dates for blood replenishment? They are cheap, a hundred taels canst you a lifetime, enough to cause a nosebleed." "!" Consort Li stepped back. Xiao Yunzhou, as if he didn''t notice, made it clear to her, "Swallow''s nest and ginseng porridge, a hundred taels would only be enough for you to eat a few times. It may not be effective, nor is it a prescription from the imperial physician." "You''re just eating it for no reason." "..." Consort Li opened her mouth, almost wanting to look in the mirror. Is she no longer beautiful?! What kind of harsh words is the emperor saying?! Is she a rural peasant woman? Only deserving to eat dates that cost a few dozen cents a sack? Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "Consort Li, don''t belittle peasant women." "Those women weave and sew every day, they rush to harvest during busy farming times, they make significant contributions to both their own families and our Jing Country." "Moreover, the dates they eat in winter are earned from their ownbor. Even if you were to eat a date, Consort Li, it''s not something you earned yourself." "..." Consort Li was stunned. What, she''s not even worthy of dates now? The emperor might as well hang her! "...Oh, haha." Xiao Chuchu, who woke up hungry in the middle of the night, was nursing in Concubine Liu''s arms. As she nursed, she prepared to enjoy some gossip as a side dish. But when she saw the gossip video exchanged by the system¡ªConsort Li''sints, she couldn''t help butugh. "Mom, it''s so funny, so satisfying!" "That''s right, why eat ginseng for no reason, how old is Consort Li?" "Besides, the money in the national treasury now is borrowed from the people! She even has the audacity to use the people''s money to pamper herself, maintain her beauty!" While Xiao Chuchu was nursing and enjoying the gossip, Concubine Liu was so awake that she couldn''t sleep, her previously drowsy eyes wide open. Other mothers would be exhausted when getting up in the middle of the night to nurse, but when she nursed her little princess, she felt more and more energetic. She even wanted tough¡ª * In the emperor''s study. Consort Li was about to break down, she could clearly feel that the emperor was different now. She had a bellyful of grievances, but she couldn''t argue with the emperor. "So... does the harem... not eat swallow''s nest and ginseng? If the Empress and Concubine Liu are the same, then I have nothing to say." Xiao Yunzhou immediately waved his hand, "Why are youparing yourself to Concubine Liu! She''s different." "???" Consort Li widened her eyes, looking at the emperor in disbelief. The emperor doesn''tck heart, his heart just leans too much! He''s too biased! "Jiang Li, exin to Consort Li. I need to continue reading the memorials, I don''t have time." Xiao Yunzhou gestured. Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue had no choice but to stand up reluctantly, "Consort Li." "Concubine Liu you mentioned has improved silk reeling technology in the past three months, increasing the efficiency of silk weaving in the capital. I roughly calcted, the entire capital''s female silk workers have recently increased their ie by three hundred taels." "!" Consort Li was shocked. "Additionally, the winter clothes that Concubine Liu sewed for the refugees have a value increase of over fifty taels." "And, Concubine Liu is still continuing her research on silk weaving." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue spread his hands towards Consort Li. "If Concubine Liu needs to consume ginseng for her health, we should consider whether the cost-benefit ratio is bnced." "..." Consort Li felt faint. However, upon hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou interrupted Jiang Li, "I won''t be so harsh." "If a woman in the harem falls ill, she should seek a prescription from the royal physician." "If ginseng is truly needed to save a life, then life outweighs everything, and I will approve it." Jiang Li nodded, "Alright, I will add this use when I return." "Good, Consort Li, you may leave. I am still busy." Consort Li''s face was filled with dejection. She failed in her mission today, not gaining anything and even got scolded, both openly and covertly! How infuriating. "Yes, Your Majesty." But just as she was about to turn and leave, she was stopped again. Close to midnight, the sky was pitch ck, with only the pcenterns shining brightly. As Consort Li reached the threshold, her magnificent gold-threaded gown, illuminated by the pcenterns, radiated brilliant light, almost blinding Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou paused, suddenly remembering, "Consort Li, how much does this pce attire cost?" Consort Li: "???" As she looked back in confusion, she heard Xiao Yunzhou musing. "Themon people can''t even afford silver thread and have to borrow money from me. How then can I and my harem wear gold thread?" "Take it off, Consort Li." "Put away these extravagant clothes and wear something simpler from tomorrow." Consort Li: "!" She felt like crying, but no tears came. Tonight, it was like she''d lost both her dignity and her troops! Meanwhile, in Donghua Pce, Xiao Chuchu, who was observing this from a distance, came to a sudden realization. "This is just a form of cost-cutting and expenditure saving! My emperor father has made progress~" "I''m so relieved." Hearing her daughter praising her father''s progress, Concubine Liu didn''t know whether tough or cry. Her daughter seemed to treat the emperor like an ancestor. But the next moment, Concubine Liu couldn''t hold back herughter anymore. Because she heard her daughter make a suggestion that sounded like divine music to her ears, ¡ª¡ª "Ah, my emperor father reminded me, we can hold a charity sale in the pce for the New Year!" "The emperor and the consorts can take out some overly luxurious clothes and jewelry, or those that are out of style, no longer liked, or rarely worn, and hold a charity sale to sell them to wealthy merchants ¡ª¡ª" "Wouldn''t Jing Country then have an additional source of ie!?" Concubine Liu sat up abruptly. Chapter 90 Chapter 90 In less than a week, the Bank of Jing Country received almost five million taels. These days, Xiao Yunzhou stayed up until thete hours of the night, holding daily discussions with the Ministry of Revenue and the Imperial Cab. "For those with a two-year term, prioritize them for the military expenses of this year and the next." "For those with a three-month term, allocate some for duck farming and pigpen improvements." Xiao Yunzhou calcted meticulously, then looked at the Ministry of Revenue''s project list, feeling overwhelmingly headache. The majority of the people deposited their money in ounts that could be withdrawn at any time. So did the wealthy businessmen. "Your Majesty, the military expenses required by the New Year... Could we temporarily use short-term deposits to cover them? The long-term state bonds are a bit insufficient." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue spread his hands, still indicating a shortfall. Xiao Yunzhou frowned, then quickly sighed and waved his hand, "You should think of other ways. I have already taken ny-nine steps forward and thought of methods for you and the Ministry of Revenue." "Do you still need me to take thest step?" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue: "......" He had no words to say, only blushing and bowing his head. "I have been urging the Ministry of Revenue, every day, to think of a profitable project." "But there''s none that can be used." Xiao Yunzhou rolled his eyes. Jiang Li cleared his throat lightly, "Please give me a little more time, Your Majesty. After the recent rush with the Bank, everyone will have leisure time and can think about how to make money with money." Xiao Yunzhou reluctantly nodded. At this moment, he missed his fairy-like daughter more than ever. But his daughter''s fairy power must not be easy to cultivate. He, as the emperor, could not shamelessly rely on his daughter all the time. If this continues, what will happen to Jing Country if one day his daughter ascends to immortality? Can the future generations of Jing Country''s rulers and ministers hold on and not let the country perish? Looking at the Ministry of Revenue and Imperial Cab ministers standing in the study, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but prod them, "Everyone think, think, whoeveres up with a profitable project first." "If it exceeds one million taels, I''ll promote him." "If it exceeds five million taels, I''ll give him a death-free gold medallion!" "!" All of the ministers in the study were shocked. The death-free gold medallion, was the highest honor for a minister. Since the establishment of the Jing Country, not many of these have been issued. Only a few founding ministers have them. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "While the founding of the country is certainly meritorious, those who help in times of crisis and rescue Jing Country''s national strength are naturally also great ministers." "Alright, you guys think about it, whenever you have an idea, submit a memorandum." Just as he finished speaking, Wei Zheng, standing outside the study, announced. "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu requests an audience, saying that she has important matters. If you do not have time to see her, she has written an article and asks you to look at it when you are free." "?" The ministers in the study were all shocked when they heard this and turned their heads to look outside. Huh? The emperor just asked them toe up with ideas and write memorandums, but the concubine from the harem has written one before the ministers? No way, it must be a love poem. The ministers quickly regained theirposure, uninterestedly turning their gaze back. "What kind of article?" Xiao Yunzhou was curious. This was the first time he had heard that a concubine would visit him not to deliver soup or dessert, but an article. "Did Cheng Qian write it?" "No, Concubine Liu wrote it herself." "!" Xiao Yunzhou widened his eyes, then realized that he was a bit out of line. With a light cough, he addressed Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue and the members of the Imperial Cab, "You all may proceed to the side hall for some tea. I will discuss the matter of silver with you shortly." Soon, Wei Zheng led Concubine Liu into the study, just as they crossed paths with the ministers. After exchanging greetings with a few ministers, Concubine Liu wasted no time after meeting the emperor. "Your Majesty, this morning I saw Consort Li in the Empress Dowager''s ce, trading her usual grand attire for an ordinary silk skirt." "I then thought of an excellent way for the pce to be self-sufficient." What? This statement, not only stunned Xiao Yunzhou, but even Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue who was initially heading towards the side hall paused in his tracks. The pce being self-sufficient? A way to make money? Jiang Li was rooted to the spot. The expenses of the pce have always been high. Although the cost of preciousmodities like swiftlet nests and ginseng have been regted, there are still expenses like silver charcoal used in winter, various meats, and rare fresh vegetables... all these expenditures by the Internal Affairs Department are substantial. Not to mention the hundreds of pce maids and eunuchs in the pce... Jiang Li halted his steps, all ears. Sure enough, he heard Concubine Liu exining her idea clearly, "Your Majesty, I was thinking, instead of letting the unused clothes and essories of the pcedies umte dust and eventually be destroyed by pests, why not collect them and organize a New Year''s charity sale in the pce?" "!" Concubine Liu''s words left Jiang Li and Xiao Yunzhou dumbstruck. It made sense. They were justying around anyway. Even the smallest mosquito leg is meat after all. But Xiao Yunzhou felt a bit awkward, he nced at Concubine Liu''s not-so-newke-colored pce dress, "This... Concubine Liu, some of the pcedies are not that wealthy. If their jewelry is sold and the money goes to the Ministry of Revenue, won''t the ministry feel guilty?" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue: "......" Concubine Liuughed, "Your Majesty, I''ve considered that. We can''t let everyone suffer losses." "We can arrange the charity sale in a way that allows merchants andmon people to bid. The one who offers the highest price gets the item." The eyes of Xiao Yunzhou and Jiang Li lit up immediately. "Tell us more!" Concubine Liu nodded, "For instance, when I first entered the pce, I received a pair of jade earrings. Wearing them feels heavy and ufortable." "I hardly use these earrings, so I''m willing to offer them for sale." "I estimate that they can be sold for roughly three taels of silver." "If a wealthy merchant is willing to pay more than three taels." "Then, wouldn''t I earn three taels? And the extra can contribute to our treasury, right?" Xiao Yunzhou was delighted to hear this. The pcedies themselves set a base price and also receive a sum of money to supplement their own needs. They would be willing and also gain something. And if the charity sale obtains more than the base price, it can be used for the daily needs of the national treasury. In this way, both the pce and the national treasury stand to gain. "This is an excellent n!" Xiao Yunzhou was pleased. However, Concubine Liu looked worried, "But this was just a casual thought when I saw Consort Li today. It''s uncertain whether the charity sale will attract wealthy merchants andmon people willing to pay a high price for our jewelry and tea cups." What''s uncertain about that? Jiang Li, who was eavesdropping outside, was so anxious that he stomped his foot! Surely there are those entric, or rather, those filthy rich individuals who would be willing to purchase items from the royal pce! Gifts made for the pce aren''t something one can easily purchase with money on an ordinary day! The exquisitely crafted items within the pce are things that the average person may never have seen. The Ministry of Revenue could even collect admission and bidding fees for the charity auction! As Jiang Li thought more about it, he became more excited. He could already imagine the lively scene where everyone would be biddingpetitively for a small item belonging to the Empress Dowager, the Empress or a concubine. Any item used by nobility within the pce could serve as a family heirloom. Wouldn''t the wealthy gentry be interested?! The highest bidder wins, surely willing to pay three to five times the price! If items belonging to the Emperor were included in the auction, then... Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue, with his eyes as fierce as a wolf or a tiger, couldn''t help but look towards the study room. He didn''t care that the Emperor had just told him to leave, he quickly knelt outside the study room. "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu has a great idea!" "The Ministry of Revenue is willing to take full responsibility for this pce auction!" "Your Majesty, could you also contribute something, like a snuff bottle you''ve used, or your chamber pot..." "...???" What? The smile on Xiao Yunzhou''s face froze. ¡¾Hahaha, the Ministry of Revenue really wants to make a fortune.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu, who had been taken by Wei Zheng to the doorway earlier, couldn''t help but wrinkle her little face withughter. ¡¾Oh, by the way, the Prime Minister and the top scorer of the Imperial Examination have some nice things too. Who wouldn''t want a child who excels in studies?¡¿ ¡¾The top scorer''s used ink brush, used bowl... infused with the luck of the God of Literature and Learning, what if their own child also scores high?¡¿ "......!" Xiao Yunzhou widened his eyes! Why hadn''t he thought of this before? What''s the use of just parading the top scorer around the city! Xiao Yunzhou promptly nodded, "Ahem, let''s forget about my chamber pot, themon people might think I''m debasing them. In that case... for the first batch, let Jiang Li, you start by selling your old items." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue: "...???" What, what? "Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, six books of the Imperial Cab, top scorer, second scorer, and third-ce winner in the Imperial Examination, all should bring their old items to sell together." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue: "......" Members of the Imperial Cab: "......???" Chapter 91 Chapter 91 Early one morning, Xiao Chuchu was cradled in the arms of Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou was perusing the ''note'' handed to him by Concubine Liu the previous night - a preliminary proposal for a charity sale. In the study room sat not only Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue, but also the chief minister Lord Fucha. Lord Fucha''s eyes darted between the Emperor holding the Third Princess in his arms, and Concubine Liu as the Emperor rose from his seat. The fifty-year-old man''s face, typicallyposed, was now creased with wrinkles. How could there be such a vast disparity? His own daughter, the former Imperial Noble Fu Cha, had once held a far more prestigious rank than Concubine Liu. Even today, Concubine Liu''s position was lower than his daughter''s, and Liu Wenchang''s official post was beneath his own. But - how could the contrast be so stark? The daughter of the Liu family, a mere concubine in the harem, could sit in the Emperor''s study and participate in discussions with the ministers! His own daughter, meanwhile, remained embroiled in petty squabbles within the harem, doing nothing but weeping... s. Lord Fucha''s eyes twitched. "Today is a special asion, as the charity sale involves the harem, the Empress Dowager, the Empress, and thedies. I must also heed the opinions of the harem," said Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, addressing Lord Fucha and Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue. "Therefore, I have summoned Concubine Liu to participate in the discussion regarding this New Year''s charity sale initiative." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue dared not voice any objection. "Your Majesty is wise. This was Concubine Liu''s idea in the first ce. It is only natural that we listen to her thoughts on how to proceed." Lord Fucha remained silent, clearly unable to protest a concubine''s involvement in governing matters on this asion. After all, the charity sale was her idea, and she had even drafted a proposal detailing her ns. [Ding, congrattions host.] [Side quest - Female Status Significantly Increased to 2.3%!] Cradled in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, Xiao Chuchu heard the system prompt and beamed at her mother, grinning from ear to ear. This system prompt was inaudible to everyone except Xiao Chuchu. Seeing her daughter''s smile, Concubine Liu assumed it was a gesture of encouragement. She turned her gaze towards Emperor Xiao Yunzhou after a moment''s reflection. "What does Your Majesty think of my preliminary charity sale n?" "I propose having a pce maid provide a brief introduction before disying each item for sale." "An introduction?" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue leaned forward, furrowing his brow. "Does Concubine Liu mean to provide background information on the items?" In the Emperor''s presence, he dared not speak too harshly about the concubines. Yet his expression betrayed his disapproval. "That would be inappropriate," Lord Fucha disagreed. "As we discussedst night, the items to be sold are all second-hand." How could one introduce second-hand goods? Should we say, "This is the golden hairpin formerly used by the Empress, now discarded, so we''re selling it"? Or perhaps, "This is a once-fashionable hairpin style from a decade ago"? The value of a golden hairpin can be easily determined by its weight, which merchants understand well. Moreover, these are items that have been used for years and subsequently abandoned as outdated... The more detailed the introduction, the more apparent it bes that these second-hand items hold little value. "If we wish for merchants to offer high prices, it is best to say nothing," the Ministry of Revenue official added his objection to Concubine Liu''s proposal for pre-sale introductions. Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow, sensing that something was amiss. As he furrowed his brow in deep thought, he heard a soft voice from the bundle in his arms. [Ah, that''s not it!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened as she prepared to address the Ministry of Revenue official. [These naive people...] [Throughout history, the high prices of luxury goods have always been underpinned by the ancient lineage and societal status of the sellers - their legendary stories.] [People aren''t buying the items themselves, but the histories and tales behind them, symbols of their own social standing!] Xiao Yunzhou was struck by a realization, as if a grand door had swung open before him. He had never heard such an assertion before! Yet his daughter''s words perfectly articted the vague notion that had been simmering in his mind moments ago. Xiao Yunzhou set down his tea cup with a tter and looked approvingly at Concubine Liu. "Concubine Liu, exin to me why you came up with the idea of having pce maids provide introductions before the sale." Having pondered this for two nights, Concubine Liu spoke eloquently. "I was reminded of my childhood." "In those days, there were street vendors selling candied hawthorn berries. I wanted some, but my father intended to use the money meant for my New Year''s gift to buy his favorite loquat pastries instead." "..." Xiao Yunzhou, Jiang Li, and Lord Fucha were all dumbfounded. They never expected Liu Wenchang to be such a man! How shameless! To take the money meant for his daughter''s candied hawthorn berries and spend it on his own favorite treats?! "Naturally, I burst into tears right there on the street," Concubine Liu continued. Well, of course she would cry! Xiao Yunzhou''s lips twitched. He felt he had assigned Liu Wenchang to the wrong position. If the man was so miserly as to deprive even his own daughter for personal gain, he should have been assigned to the Ministry of Revenue! "Ahem, Concubine Liu, I understand your difficult circumstances, but how does this childhood story rte to my question?" Xiao Yunzhou interrupted her. After all, Liu Wenchang was now an important official, representing the face of the imperial court. Xiao Yunzhou nced protectively at Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue and Lord Fucha, preventing Concubine Liu from further exposing her family''s embarrassments. But Concubine Liu merely smiled and continued, "I haven''t finished my story." "Later, to cate my unrelenting tears and tantrums, my father told me the story of the Queen Mother''s Peach Banquet." "He told me that even the celestial deities craved the peaches, but the Queen Mother would only bestow them upon the most aplished immortals." Xiao Yunzhou was suddenly struck by realization. Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue and Lord Fucha, both intelligent men, instantly understood! Concubine Liu modestly smiled. "That childhood tale came to mind yesterday, and I wondered if I could apply it to the charity sale." "I do not wish to deceive those whoe to purchase second-hand items, as my father did." "I merely wish to share the stories behind these pce heirlooms with them." "For instance, the jade bowl the Empress Dowager used in her youth that remained unbroken even when a dragon shifted the earth - she would only reward the princes with one if they excelled in their studies." Oh my! Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue suddenly looked up! What a marvelous story! It instantly imbued the bowl with immense value and prestige! Yet he knew full well, having worked at the Ministry of Revenue when those jade bowls were procured, that the entire batch cost less than five taels of silver - not even as valuable as the ginseng Consort Li once consumed... "Your suggestion is indeed insightful, Your Ladyship!" Jiang Li was utterly impressed by this concubine. Incredible! This woman from the harem! "Well said, Concubine Liu! You truly live up to your reputation as the inventor of the silk-weaving technique!" Xiao Yunzhou was positively rubbing his hands together, wishing the charity sale couldmence immediately. "Very well, all the bamboozling about the harem - ahem, I mean, the old wares and their descriptions from the harem shall be entirely your responsibility!" said Xiao Yunzhou, looking at Concubine Liu with admiration. "If only you were a man, Our Ministry of Revenue would never be short of funds." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue: "..." He felt he had been subtly mocked! How did the Emperor manage to drag him into this? [Side Quest - Female Status Significantly Improved to 2.5%!] [One Lottery Chance Unlocked.] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes lit up. That very afternoon, Concubine Liu received an imperial decree and went to visit the Empress Dowager. With just one sentence, she nearly had the Empress Dowager move out half her storeroom of old items. "Your Majesty, if we put all these old items up for sale at the New Year charity auction, I shall have Cheng Qian write articles and poems describing them, and recite them aloud for the merchants andmoners at the auction." "!" The Empress Dowager immediately sat up from her couch! So there would be someone writing stories about her, the Empress Dowager? One must know that in traditional operas, the stories mainly revolved around loyal officials and enlightened rulers! In the afternoon, Consort Li received the news and instigated the Empress and a group of consorts to protest to the Empress Dowager. "Empress Dowager, Concubine Liu has gone mad with greed. Many of your old items were bestowed by thete Emperor. You cherish them as mementos of him; how could you sell them¡ª" Before she could finish, she saw the Empress Dowager''s stern face. "What do you mean? You think I, as the Empress Dowager, am only fit to reminisce about thete Emperor and had better die soon to be buried with him?" "No, no, that''s not what I meant..." "If thete Emperor were still alive, he woulde and rebuke you in the middle of the night!" "!?!" "If it can benefit the people, so what if I have no jade bowls to eat from!?" "And all of you, each bring out three small items. If you have no money, bring old unworn clothes! The Emperor is still alive, so you need not cherish mementos of him, do you?" "...!" Everyone looked at Consort Li with grievance. Consort Li''s mouth twitched uncontrobly. Why was Concubine Liu favored while she was not? Chapter 92 Chapter 92 Ten dayster, in the Zhengxuan Building of the capital. "Now up for auction is the Heshan Tiger ink stone set that belonged to Lord Fucha, the current Prime Minister!" "Lord Fucha was the top schr of the 13th year of the Wanjia Era." "He is renowned for his literary talent and magnanimity. He can appreciate others'' strengths, consider the bigger picture, grasp the essence, and possess extraordinary poise and cultivation." At the auction, pce maids dressed in uniformly lotus pink attire weed wealthy bidders from all over to enter and take their seats, simultaneously serving them tea. Surrounding them weremoners observing the event, snacking on melon seeds. On the auction stage, the pce maid narrating spoke with a voice as melodious as a warbling nightingale, growing increasingly impassioned as she reached the climax. "Lord Fucha passed the imperial examinations at twelve, became a top schr at neen... At thirty-seven, he became the Crown Prince''s mentor, and at forty-five, he was promoted to Prime Minister!" "The Heshan Tiger ink stone set Lord Fucha has put up for auction today was his old love from his youth." "Back then, he didn''t have much money, so he would linger outside the shop every day, silently vowing to himself¡ª" "I must be like the fierce tiger descending the mountain, and create a prosperous world!" The narrating pce maid was specially selected by Concubine Liu and trained in storytelling. In an instant, the auction hall was sent into an uproar! "What a powerful vow¡ª''I must be like the fierce tiger descending the mountain!''" "I had no idea that the everposed Prime Minister had been as ferocious as a tiger in his youth, filled with youthful vigor." "Lord Fucha actually had such lofty ambitions!" Xiao Yunzhou, seated in the second-floor private room, sipped his tea and chuckled, "This is the first We learn of your fierce youth, Lord Fucha." Lord Fucha''s aged face flushed red. Who wrote this script? Did he still want to keep face? The pce maid on the first floor had already dered boldly, "Lord Fucha only managed to buy this Heshan Tiger ink stone set after entering the Hanlin Academy as a top schr and receiving his first month''s sry." "Not only was this his long-cherished possession, but it also symbolized his soaring ambition!" Lord Fucha nearly spat out his tea as he coughed. That''s a bit exaggerated. Way too exaggerated. In fact, he had barely used the ink stone a few times after buying it. He felt that this ink stone wasn''t very usable! "Lord Fucha has barely used one-tenth or one-twentieth of this ink stone to this day, as he must have been reluctant to use it." Lord Fucha: "..." The pce maid smiled at the crowd of bidders, "When Lord Fucha purchased this Heshan Tiger ink stone in his youth, he paid twelve taels of silver." "Today, as times have changed, Lord Fucha has entrusted us to sell it on his behalf, with a starting price of nine taels." "This is a special number, perhaps signifying Lord Fucha''s aspiration for the country''s unity and prosperity... that the nine provinces would unite under one rule, and Jing Country would flourish and stand tall among all nations!" Lord Fucha''s beard trembled. "Let the bidding begin¡ªthis Heshan Tiger ink stone that Lord Fucha purchased after bing a top schr, his cherished possession. ce your bids, everyone!" "Ny-nine taels!" "One hundred and ny-nine taels!" "Two hundred and ny-nine taels!" "..." "I bid nine hundred and ny-nine taels! I am willing to pay nine hundred and ny-nine taels for Lord Fucha''s soaring ambition!" The entire hall was stunned into silence. Even Lord Fucha''s teacup slipped from his hands and shattered on the floor. What? An item he bought for twelve taels was now selling for nearly a thousand? [Oh my, Mother Liu really knows how to spin a tale~] Even Xiao Chuchu was astonished in the Emperor''s embrace. She had underestimated the reverence this era held for high officials and top schrs! "Next up for sale is an item from the pce. It is the bamboo meditation mat used by the Empress Dowager in front of the Buddha in the Cining Pce." Even the Minister of Revenue, Jiang Li, couldn''t help but stand up. Why didn''t they auction the jade bowls? A bamboo meditation mat wasn''t that valuable. "The Empress Dowager used to kneel on this bamboo meditation mat." "Every first and fifteenth day of the lunar month, she would kneel in front of the Buddha to pray for the people." Minister Jiang Li''s mouth fell open for a moment. "You can see the visible wear and tear in the center of the mat." "It''s the imprint of the Empress Dowager''s knees, from her carrying the people in her heart!" In an instant, the spectators erupted into a frenzy. Commoners and wealthyndlords alike were stunned. "Oh my, the Empress Dowager thinks of usmon folk!" "Isn''t she the highest-ranking woman in the pce? Yet she knelt on this mat?" "Even if we don''t have money, if we did, we would want to buy this and kneel on the mat the Empress Dowager knelt on!" The scene grew increasingly lively, with each wave of excitement surpassing thest. Imperial writings praised by the Emperor, Buddhist scriptures transcribed by the Empress, the Empress Dowager''s Buddhist texts, jade bowls, jewelry from consorts... Ink stones from cab ministers, top schrs and schrs... they were auctioned off one by one in a steady stream. It was a heated event, withmoners eagerly watching the spectacle, and wealthyndlords frantically bidding. "Hey, Brother Liu, did you manage to get anything that belonged to the Emperor?" "No, I''m so regretful! I only got the spinning top yed with by the young Princess." "That''s still pretty good. Your son can y with the same toy as the young Princess." "Yeah, I''m satisfied with that. I also got a bottle of the top schr''s mother''s ''Top Schr Wine''!" "Oh, congrattions! I only managed to get the chamber pot used by the Minister of Justice when contemting legal matters." "That''s not bad either. I couldn''t even get that." "..." Xiao Yunzhou could no longer bear to listen, or he might burst outughing. [After all, themon people truly revere high officials and the imperial family. The officials and imperial family of Jing Country must work even harder to live up to their admiration!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but silently muse. Xiao Yunzhou felt a surge of solemn responsibility and turned to the ministers and cab officials disguised as attendants in the private room, clearing his throat. "You all can stay and continue watching." "Tomorrow, present Me with an essay, expressing your reflections on today''s events." "On why the items you have used are so coveted by themoners andndlords, and how you can live up to their expectations of you." "..." After Xiao Yunzhou finished speaking, he prepared to return to the pce and continue studying Xiao Chuchu''s "Fundamentals of Finance," which he had only scratched the surface of. He needed to ponder and contemte further! He had no time to waste here, but when he saw the excited flush on Xiao Chuchu''s face, he couldn''t bring himself to take the child away too early. "Have Concubine Liu bring the young Princess back after the auction ends." Xiao Chuchu let out a delighted squeal and blew a kiss at Xiao Yunzhou. [Thank you, Imperial Father~] [Today I can draw prizes again. Wait for me to return tonight, and I''ll draw a good prize to reward you~] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" There''s more?! He didn''t dare voice his thoughts and quickly returned to the pce to study. "Wei Zheng, I also want to have the brain-nourishing meal prepared for the Crown Prince tonight." "..." Xiao Chuchu watched the entire auction, thoroughly enjoying herself and cooing with delight as she reveled in the excitement. Concubine Liu couldn''t help butugh at the scene. As the person in charge, she was stunned by the final tally after thest item from the harem was auctioned off and all the proceeds were tallied. "We received... one hundred and thirteen thousand silver taels?" Liu eximed in shock. This amount was nearly equivalent to the vault''s deposit on the first day. [There are certainly many wealthy individuals out there.] Xiao Chuchu mused. Not wanting to dy, Liu instructed the Ministry of Revenue officials to count the silver before making preparations to return to the pce. She had originally intended to visit her parents, Liu''s mother and Liu''s father, but that would have to wait. She needed to hurry back to the pce and distribute the silver meant for the haremdies. But just as she was about to board the carriage, someone called out to her! "Miss, Mother asked me to bring you these duck eggs." It was Liu Runnian, her elder brother, who personally drove the carriage to see his sister Concubine Liu. "The food in the pce undergoes inspection, so these should be allowed inside? These duck eggs are still fresh, for little Chuchu to eat." Just as Liu was about to ask her brother about the progress on the Zhengxuan Building''s silk book, a wail came from the bundle in her arms. [Uncle, why didn''t you bring Mother any roasted duck? Chuchu wants roasted duck, not duck eggs!] Xiao Chuchu was practically drooling with hunger. Liu couldn''t help butugh. The little one didn''t even have teeth yet. Liu Runnian chuckled and patted Chuchu''s head. "I''ve been keeping an eye out for roasted ducks as well. Once little Chuchu is old enough to eat meat, this uncle will make sure to bring her the plumpest batch." Xiao Chuchu beamed with joy, but her delight was cut short when a gust of wind made her shiver uncontrobly, her little face contorting from the chill! [It''s so cold in Jing Country during winter. I almost forgot, I can''t handle the coldtely. When will Uncle get me a down jacket?] Liu Runnian and Concubine Liu both froze in confusion. What jacket? Down? Chapter 93 Chapter 93 Concubine Liu bundled up Little Chuchu tightly and quickly rushed back to the pce with the duck eggs. As her daughter was sound asleep, she and the pce maid checked today''s ounts, tallying the ie from the harem. It wasn''t until the evening of the next day that Concubine Liu went to report at Cining Pce. "Empress Dowager, the wolf hair brush with a broken tip, which you used to teach the Emperor how to write when he was a child, and taught him to be a wise ruler, it''s the one that broke because he was truant." "It sold for 2,900 taels!" There were already a pile of concubines and consorts in Cining Pce waiting for the news, even the Empress was there. Upon hearing this, everyone''s corners of the mouth twitched. This brush had disciplined the Emperor. It was one of the few high-priced items in this harem auction. "It sold for so much?" the Empress Dowager eximed in surprise and delight, "I almost threw this brush away a few years ago." Concubine Liu smiled, "The people were praising the Empress Dowager as a strict mother yesterday, saying that''s why we have an Emperor who is willing to raise pigs and ducks for the people." The Empress Dowager couldn''t close her mouth fromughing. The money was secondary, the key point was her reputation; this charity sale really gave it a good boost. "I heard that the entire Zhengxuan Building was surrounded by threeyers of people, inside and out? Even the wealthy gentry from neighboring towns rushed over." "Yes. We were worried that with so many people, not everyone would be able to hear clearly, so we distributed introduction scrolls of the items on sale to all the buyers present." The Empress Dowager''s eyes lit up, her story of educating her son was even recorded in text? "Good, good, good! Concubine Liu, you did well, you are a good child." The Empress Dowager was extremely satisfied. Concubine Liu quickly began dividing the money. "The Empress Dowager''s tea cup, the one she used to educate the harem." "The spinning wheel with which the Empress Dowager personally spun silk." The more the Empress Dowager heard, the more satisfied she became. Her stories of educating her son, the Emperor, her daughter-inw, the Empress, and her personalbor, asking for blessings for the people, all these virtues... had all been spread! As long as these collectibles were held by the wealthy gentry, they would treasure them, showing them off to their descendants and guests who visited. Each time they showed them, they would recount the story of these old items, retelling the story of her, the Empress Dowager''s good name! The Empress Dowager was all smiles, extremely satisfied with this charity sale arranged by Concubine Liu. She casually waved her hand, "Concubine Liu, I am old now, and I don''t need much money. Abalone and sea cucumber, I can''t even digest them, the money from these sales, the portion that belongs to me, will just gather dust if kept, I will give it all to you." The Empress and the consorts: "......???" They were stunned. Just as Concubine Liu was about to refuse, the Empress Dowager deliberately put on a stern face to stop her, "The Emperor has been talking about project profits recently, I am old, I can''t keep up with the Emperor''s thinking. Concubine Liu, you take the money, you will definitely make better use of it than me." Concubine Liu had no choice but to ept. She was about to kneel down in thanks, but was stopped by the Empress Dowager. "Having you in the harem is a blessing for me and the Emperor." As the Empress Dowager spoke, she couldn''t help but nce at Consort Li, who was rolling her eyes in jealousy. The Empress Dowager frowned and withdrew her gaze, looking at Concubine Liu with pity, "Ah, you''re even thinner than Consort Li." Consort Li: "???" What does this have to do with her?! "Consort Li knows how to nourish her health, she needs to eat blood swallows and ginseng, Concubine Liu, I think you need to nourish yourself even more." The Empress Dowager patted Concubine Liu''s hand, "You are strong and full of good ideas to serve the people. The Emperor has also started to eatmb milk and eggs regrly, hasn''t he? Don''t just think of others and neglect yourself." The Empress Dowager outlived the Former Emperor. She knew all too well that in critical moments, men couldn''t be relied on. Women had to depend on themselves. The Empress Dowager immediately turned to her own maid, "Bring me some of the cordyceps that the Former Emperor rewarded me with. I think Concubine Liu has made great contributions. I will reward her. I will not be at a loss." "Alright, the rest of you can share the money with Concubine Liu." "Empress, you stay." Empress Tong''s brows slightly furrowed. Sure enough, as everyone else left, the Empress Dowager''s face hardened. "Empress, you were silent just now. Are you dissatisfied with me, or are you jealous of Concubine Liu?" Empress Tong was shocked, "I... I dare not... I was only..." The Empress Dowager closed her eyes, "You are the Empress, and no woman in the pce can surpass you. But you also need to keep up with the Emperor''s pace." "Now, you must clearly know who contributes to the harem, and reward them ordingly. Those who contribute nothing, only hold others back and waste the people''s money, you, as the Empress, should discipline them." "If they can create such a scene that they cry to the ministers, it''s not my face that is lost, it''s the face of the entire harem, it''s the face of the Empress who governs the six pces!" Empress Tong''s face stiffened, "It''s my fault." The Empress Dowager picked up her prayer beads, "If you can''t manage it, Empress, I''ll have someone who can." Empress Tong, maintaining her dignified demeanor, couldn''t believe what she heard. "I think Concubine Liu has made considerable contributions recently. Empress, what do you think?" Empress Tong ground her teeth and knelt, "I... I also think so." "I will go to the Emperorter and suggest that Concubine Liu should be promoted to a higher rank." The Empress Dowager finally opened her eyes, satisfied, and nodded at her with a smile. The Empress''s hands behind her back clenched tightly, her fingers digging into her own flesh. * In the Imperial Study, Xiao Yunzhou was also listening to Jiang Zheng from the Ministry of Revenue report yesterday''s revenue. Everyone was overjoyed, including Xiao Yunzhou. A pile of old things brought in a million taels of profit! "Your Majesty, we can cover most of the military expenses for this year!" Jiang Li was thrilled. Who could have imagined that the women of the harem would be so capable? If they held a charity sale every year, it would be extraordinary. Xiao Yunzhou lifted his handsome face with satisfaction, "I didn''t expect that just a few days ago, I said that if any official coulde up with a project that would bring in a million taels, I would promote him." "As it turns out, before any official could act, my concubines took the initiative." The faces of the ministers in the Imperial Study turned awkward for a moment. There''s no harm withoutparison. Once theypared, their faces hurt terribly! Who says women are inferior to men? The key point is, Concubine Liu, who hasn''t even passed the imperial examination, not even a student, has bested them all. Their faces hurt terribly! "I am out of face, how about you?" Xiao Yunzhou put down his teacup with a thud. All the ministers kept silent, looking down at their shoes. "I think... Concubine Liu''s rank should be promoted, as a reward, and it wouldn''t count as the Emperor breaking his word." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue was the first to speak. He truly admired Concubine Liu. Don''t even mention her resourcefulness, just her ability yesterday to organize the charity sale so smoothly was not inferior to some junior officials in the Ministry of Revenue. However, Concubine Liu was a woman of the imperial harem and could not be promoted to an official post, so why not elevate her status instead! Jiang Li had a great impression of Concubine Liu and was happy to seek benefits for her, grateful that she solved an urgent problem for the Ministry of Revenue. But in a short while, Wei Zheng reported from outside. He entered shortly after, whispering something to Xiao Yunzhou. Upon hearing, Xiao Yunzhou spread his hands to Jiang Li, "You''re toote. The matter of raising her status, the Empress has just proposed to the Empress Dowager to promote Concubine Liu to the position of Consort Liu. My Ministers, how should I now keep my promise?" "You all are roasting me over a fire!" "..." Once the Emperor has spoken, it is toote to withdraw his words. When it was agreed to promote, naturally, it must be done. But the problem is... Concubine Liu is not an official, and there is no higher position to promote her to in the harem. It''s not like they can promote her to Imperial Consort now. "Erm, Your Majesty, our dynasty has no precedent for women to hold office. In my opinion, why not give her an imperial pardon?" Vice Premier Shen Mian spoke. The entire royal study room was stunned. An imperial pardon? The first imperial pardon after Xiao Yunzhou ascended the throne was not given to a high-ranking official, but to a woman in the harem!? Chancellor Fu Cha''s beard twitched, "Shen Mian, watch your words!" Those who receive the imperial pardon will go down in history. Would their dynasty''s officials still be able to hold their heads up!? Women receive it, but men do not. Those who sew clothes receive it, but those who serve as officials do not. How would future schrs view these officials of their dynasty? They would lose face for generations! "I think,pared to the earnings from the Ministry of Revenue, the charity sale is more beneficial to the people, but it''s not enough to warrant an imperial pardon." Chancellor Fu Cha firmly opposed giving Concubine Liu this item, "Since the Emperor promised to promote her, why not let Concubine Liu jump two ranks and be conferred as Imperial Consort." Xiao Yunzhou pondered as he paced, just about to speak, when he heard Wei Zheng enter again to report. "Your Majesty, the Ministry of Works has submitted a memorial." "Concubine Liu and Consort Min seem to have jointly developed a new type of winter clothing, a down jacket." Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. Chapter 94 Chapter 94 Concubine Liu returned from Cining Pce to Donghua Pce, and joined Consort Min for a meal, ying with little Chu Chu. After they finished checking the homework of the Sixth Prince Cheng Shan and the Crown Prince, they sent the princes back to Qianxi No.5 Residence to sleep. Upon returning, they became busy in Donghua Pce. Consort Min was stuffing duck down into the winter clothes she was sewing. She was naturally energetic, and had previously secretly made feather shuttlecocks herself. Now, she was stuffing the duck down swiftly and skillfully, while chattering away. "How ingenious I am to havee up with this idea for you!" Little Chu Chu, who had just woken up in Concubine Liu''s arms, stared wide-eyed. [This is a down jacket!?] Chu Chu was astonished by the gradually emerging, increasingly puffy and stuffed down jacket in Consort Min''s hands. [It was thought of by my Aunt Min!?] Hearing her daughter''s thoughts, Concubine Liu lowered her head, stifling augh, while continuing to sew the seams of the winter clothes stuffed with duck down by Consort Min. "If I hadn''t dragged you, Channiang, to y shuttlecock and exercise, and you hadn''t noticed the feathers falling, and said that ducks don''t seem cold in winter either, you wouldn''t have thought of these warm down jackets." Consort Min was excitedly flushed. "Oh my, I didn''t expect that I would also inspire you, Channiang, at times." Hearing this, Chu Chu finally understood what had happened. [Awoo, I must have missed this while napping during the day. It was Aunt Min who reminded my mother!] [My mother has been thinking of making winter clothes to keep warm, and suddenly came up with the idea of down jackets!] Concubine Liu stroked her daughter''s little hand, checking its temperature, and bashfully smiled at her daughter''s praise. She waved for the pce maid outside to enter. "Qiu Li, try on this coat." Consort Min immediately stood up, excitedly watching Qiu Li put it on. The winter clothes they had sewn were all ck, with two sizes - one for adults and one for children. The adult size was mostly one-size-fits-all. This way, more people could wear them. At that moment, Qiu Li put on the winter coat, and the hem reached below her bottom, the coat being a bit loose. But after running around in it, she was delighted. "Mydies, it''s warm, I''m not cold at all!" Hearing this, both Consort Min and Concubine Liu were overjoyed. "It really works! Channiang, you''re so clever. My casual remark, which I didn''t think much of myself, inspired you!" Consort Min felt a bit embarrassed. "Don''t tell the Ministry of Works that I deserve credit for these down jackets. What did I really do? I just yed shuttlecock with you and casually mentioned that duck feathers are thicker than chicken feathers, and ducks don''t fear the cold even when swimming in water, so feathers aren''t suitable for shuttlecocks." Concubine Liu took her hand and patted it. "It was your casual remark that gave me the inspiration. How can you say you don''t deserve credit?" Sometimes, even the emperor has to delegate tasks to his ministers, unable to do everything alone. Concubine Liu now understood this principle. The techniques her daughter''s thoughts revealed could not be fully and perfectly researched in this lifetime by her alone or just the Liu family. One person''s efforts are ultimately limited. The foolish old man who tried to move mountains relied on generation after generation, working day and night without pause. The more Concubine Liu''s intelligence was boosted by her daughter''s influence, and the deeper she delved into charity sales, banking, and the silk industry, the more she realized that these endeavors require thebined efforts of many people, carrying on the work continuously. It was not something she could sustain alone. "I''ll just tell the Ministry of Works the truth. If you feel guilty about taking credit, just help out more." Concubine Liu patted Consort Min''s hand. This directly stirred up Consort Min''s heroic spirit! "Alright! Leave it to me then, Channiang. For these down jackets, any difficult,borious, or dirty work, let me handle it! I''m not afraid of hardship!" Consort Min was excitedly flushed. In the past, she could only pretend to be devoutly studying Buddhist scriptures behind closed pce doors, secretly practicing martial arts with swords and spears. But she had aplished nothing. Now, things were different. Since befriending Channiang, she could eat meat freely, act boldly - no, kick wicked olddies, and work hard to make clothes for refugees! In these past few months, Consort Min felt truly alive for the first time! Not a walking corpse, not the demuredy others expected, but living as the chivalrous heroine she aspired to be! Wherever there was suffering, she would be there! "Channiang, you stay seated. I''ll go check the Imperial Kitchen right now and collect all the chicken and duck feathers to make down jackets for the poor people!" Consort Min couldn''t sit still anymore. "Oh, and for the duck feather collection, I''ll have my idle, bird-keeping younger brother go to the viges to gather duck down!" "Channiang, don''t worry about these little tasks, leave them to me and my good-for-nothing younger brother. At least it''s better than himzing around causing trouble." As she spoke, Consort Min excitedly sent a messenger to summon her wayward younger brother. "As for the final product of our winter clothes, don''t even mention my brother. This is the least he should be doing instead of idling around carelessly." Consort Min thumped her chest. "Channiang, rest assured, he wouldn''t dare disobey his elder sister." Concubine Liu was shocked to learn how formidable Consort Min was at home. No wonder her family made her pretend to study Buddhist scriptures to restrain her temperament. [Ding, your mother Concubine Liu has gained Consort Min''s highest affection level - Devoted Loyalty.] [If she gains over five Devoted Loyalty followers, your mother Concubine Liu can randomly select one attribute to permanently increase by 20%.] Chu Chu, in Concubine Liu''s arms, was stunned with her mouth agape. Well, well. Other people have chicks, but she has a mother hen? What a household! What about her father, Xiao Yunzhou? [Your biological father, Xiao Yunzhou, currently has no Devoted Loyalty followers.] [Five more are needed to activate the attribute bonus.] The Emperor Dad could also permanently increase his attributes? Chu Chu gritted her teeth. No, the Emperor Dad''s skills at gathering followers werecking. Right now, the Emperor Dad had zero devoted followers, while her mother was more capable. As Chu Chu mused, her inner monologue inadvertently flew out and reached the ears of Xiao Yunzhou, who was approaching Donghua Pce with Minister Jiang Li to find Concubine Liu and Consort Min! Xiao Yunzhou and Minister Jiang Li stopped in front of the gates of Donghua Pce, dumbfounded. [Emperor Dad, quickly gather five Devoted Loyalty followers.] [That way, he can increase one of his attributes.] [Let me see, besides intelligence, what other attributes can the system increase?] Chu Chu''s musings made Xiao Yunzhou stare wide-eyed in shock. [Ah, intelligence, martial prowess, endurance, charisma...] "!!!" Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. The spiritual power of my daughter is so formidable that she could directly enhance the abilities of me, her imperial father? "Your Majesty, should I summon Minister Wei Zheng to go and announce our arrival? It would not be appropriate for me to directly enter the pce of the Imperial Noble Consort." Minister of Revenue Jiang Li was tense and did not dare look sideways, only gazing at his own feet. At this, Xiao Yunzhou awakened from his reverie and gazed at him with resentment. "Jiang Li...your loyalty to me is still not enough." "???" "...!" Jiang Li almost lost his life. What? What was that? Weren''t we just here with the Emperor to inspect the down coats? How did he be disloyal? Oh no, yesterday heined to his wife that the Emperor was sometimes wise and sometimes foolish. Did the Emperor find out?! "Let''s go to the pavilion. Have Wei Zheng go and announce our arrival, and have Concubine Liu and Consort Min prepare. I will bring the ministers to meet with them for discussion." Jiang Li''s knees went weak. The Emperor was testing him, definitely testing him! He had be arrogant recently! The Emperor told him toe to the pce to inspect down coats, and he came. Oh dear, was it really okay for a minister to enter the inner pce? Did he want to rebel? To severely disrespect the Emperor and the Imperial Noble Consort! In the cold winter months, Jiang Li was drenched in sweat. The recent matter with the banks had brought much attention to the Ministry of Revenue, inting his pride! "Your Majesty, your humble servant dares not...the inner pce is no ce for me...I shall withdraw to Zhengyang Gate and await the good news about the down coats!" [Ding, your imperial father Xiao Yunzhou has gained a thoroughly chastened loyal minister.] Chapter 95 Chapter 95 A beaten loyal minister? Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. Listen, he still didn''t seem to bepletely devoted. Watching Jiang Li''s departing figure, Xiao Yunzhou suddenly felt that as the emperor, he still had a long way to go. None of his ministers were truly devoted to him. Thinking this, Xiao Yunzhou turned and walked into the Donghua Pce with his hands behind his back, his expression fluctuating. Consort Min had gone to the kitchen to collect duck feathers. Only Concubine Liu was allowing Qiu Li to fully experience wearing the first down coat. "Your Ladyship, this is much lighter than cotton clothes. This servant feels like she''s walking with much more ease." "I feel so light, just like wearing summer clothes, without any weight at all." "But it''s so warm, this servant is starting to sweat." Qiu Li''s face was flushed from the heat of the brazier in the hall, with a thinyer of sweat. Concubine Liu could no longer conceal theughter in her eyes, "Really? Let Consort Min try itter." It was unknown whether Consort Min, skilled with swords and spears, could move freely while wearing this winter coat. If Consort Min also found itfortable, then this down coat could be used by the soldiers guarding the borders in winter, couldn''t it? A glimmer shed in Concubine Liu''s eyes, "These few days, it must have been snowing heavily at the borders, with three feet of ice and snow." Upon hearing this, Zhang Jia, the wet nurse holding Xiao Chuchu, looked worried. Her husband Pang Rusong had been promoted to Grand General of the Cavalry after contributing to suppressing the Liao King''s rebellion. He had been sent by the emperor to Datong earlier. A letter had arrived a few days ago saying he wouldn''t be returning to the capital for the New Year. The winter snow in Datong must be much colder than here. She had heard that this year''s military provisions werecking, so their station was likely both cold and deprived. "Zhang Jia, if Consort Min brings back the duck downter, you can make a coat for your husband too." Concubine Liu had also thought of Pang Rusong. Recalling her daughter had previously said that in the ''future'', Pang Rusong was supposed to have died from a rpse of an old injury on his way back to the capital after the war, Concubine Liu felt that soldiers should be well-treated while still alive. "If your husband also wears this down coat in Datong, I will ask the Ministry of Works to have a batch made and sent to the military camps on the emperor''s behalf." The more Concubine Liu thought about it, the more feasible it seemed. [Wow, awesome Mom, you''re even making down coats for the army!] [They could be made into thin down coats to be worn under the soldiers'' armor, not only not hindering movement but also providing warmth~] [Great job Mom~] Xiao Chuchu stared wide-eyed, babbling and grinning in Zhang Jia''s arms. Concubine Liu raised her tea cup to cover her smile at her daughter''s amusement, "Little Princess will stay with me today, I''ll keep herpany while she naps. That way, you can make clothes for your husband tonight." "Thank you Your Ladyship!" "This servant has always been cared for by Your Ladyship, and now you are even concerned for this servant''s family." Zhang Jia was deeply moved. Her biggest worries in the pce were for her husband at the border and the soldiers there. She was truly afraid that if they went to war, the soldiers wouldn''t have enough food and clothes, affecting the oue. In that case, her husband Pang Rusong the general might not be able to return. "Your Ladyship, this servant wishes she could serve Little Princess and Your Ladyship for life." Concubine Liu''s concern was not just empty words, but also followed by action, putting Zhang Jiapletely at ease. "Your Ladyship not only cares for themon people, but also the border soldiers. You are a model for us women!" Zhang Jia had thought that as a married woman, her only use was to raise children. Being able to enter the pce to serve Little Princess and earn silver for her family was already the pinnacle of achievement. But seeing Concubine Liu, she realized that wasn''t the case at all. Women could be remarkable in many ways beyond raising children! "Your Ladyship, this servant would like to help make these down coats too when there is free time while Little Princess is napping." Zhang Jia sincerely knelt down. "When this servant was a youngdy at home, she was skilled in fine brush painting." "Your Ladyship, please let this servant know if you need her assistance." [Ding, Concubine Liu has gained a devoted follower.] [Current progress 2/5.] Xiao Chuchu was stunned. So fast. Her mother was too formidable, far outpacing her father the emperor, practically rocketing forward. She thought to herself, repeatedly chiming in, [The wet nurse had never mentioned being able to paint before.] [Wow, it seems that by truly caring for others, one can warm their hearts.] Xiao Yunzhou, who had been standing outside and hadn''t entered, was stunned upon hearing his daughter''s thoughts. Caring for others? So the reason his ministers weren''t devoted to him was because he hadn''t cared for them enough? Xiao Yunzhou was shaken. For many years, the imperial education he had received from being the crown prince until now was about how to rule from above, not how to care for others. That was why Jiang Li had only been beaten into fearing him, not truly being devoted to him. Standing outside, watching Concubine Liu refusing to let Zhang Jia kneel, Xiao Yunzhou felt as if he had realized something. Concubine Liu had always been kindhearted and soft. Unlike him, who had been constantly scolding people recently. "Ahem." Thinking this, Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat. Concubine Liu, who had just helped Zhang Jia up, was startled by the sound. Looking up, she saw a pair of embroidered dragon silk boots standing outside! Concubine Liu was stunned. Xiao Yunzhou motioned to stop her from saluting, "I heard you''vee up with another novel idea, a down coat, so I''vee to take a look." Concubine Liu quickly lowered her head. How long had the emperor been there? She hoped she hadn''t said anything improper due to Little Princess''s thoughts. "It wasn''t really my idea, it was my elder brother who insisted I bring back a cartload of duck eggs and a few plucked ducks a couple of days ago." "Consort Min ate too many at night, so she dragged me into kicking the shuttlecock, and we started thinking about staying warm in winter..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched as he listened. Consort Min, that foolish one sure had foolish luck, fortunately she lived with Concubine Liu! Otherwise, she could have kicked five hundred shuttlecocks and it would''ve been for naught, nevering up with the idea of down coats. "It''s impressive that you could think to make clothes out of it." Xiao Yunzhou patted Concubine Liu''s hand, noticing her fingers were pricked with needles and scratched. Xiao Yunzhou gasped. With a soft sigh, "I know you''ve been working hard recently." Concubine Liu''s current dedication to making clothes and weaving silk was akin to his own dedication to studying finance - no matter what she was doing, her mind was fully focused on that task. That was how she went from duck feathers to conceiving the idea of down coats, wasn''t it? "Concubine Liu, I don''t even know how to reward you anymore." "I had previously promised that anyone who could earn me a hundred taels of silver, I would promote them." Xiao Yunzhou looked at Concubine Liu with undisguised admiration. "Your Majesty, this is not solely my achievement," Concubine Liu said humbly. She was being modest. If it weren''t for her daughter, how could she havee up with so many ideas? "Instead of rewarding me, you should reward the hard-working ministers from the Ministry of Works who participated in the research and development," Concubine Liu felt undeserving of the credit. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes shed. He learned something new. This emperor had learned another lesson. No wonder Concubine Liu, a mere woman, had those around her pouring out their hearts and souls for her. She did not im credit, acknowledging the contributions of those around her! "Hmm, I''m not consulting you," said Xiao Yunzhou, patting her hand. "I''ve already made up my mind." "Once I''ve spoken, it''s as difficult to retract as a team of galloping horses. I shall promote you." Concubine Liu opened her mouth. Ah? She was a pcedy, not allowed to meddle in state affairs! How could she be an official? "Your Majesty cannot possibly mean to make this servant a noble consort. I refuse!" In her daughter''s words, a noble consort was an ill-omened wretch that brought ruin to the nation and its people! Concubine Liu declined! Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "Being a noble consort would be a waste of your intellect." "I want you to be an Imperial Advisor." "???" "From now on, you will tell me daily how you treat the pcedies and eunuchs around you." "You shall be my mirror!" Concubine Liu''s eyes widened. Even Xiao Chuchu was so stunned she forgot to speak. [Ding, side quest - Women''s status significantly improved by 5%!] Chapter 96 Chapter 96 "Your Majesty, this is against the rules!" The next day at the morning court session, the officials who had heard the news protested. "Since ancient times, women have not held official positions, let alone women from the harem!" "Our Jing Country has no such precedent!" The civil and military officials, along with some elderly and conservative schrs and soldiers, could not ept this. Traditionally, men handle external affairs, women handle internal affairs! "Does this mean that harem women will join us in court sessions from now on?" Even martial arts masters like Duke of Dingguo opposed it! Originally, these warriors did not object much to the Emperor''s choice of Crown Prince. Now, they were enraged that Xiao Yunzhou wanted to appoint a female official. If women could attend court, where would the men stand? "Concubine Liu has been sewing clothes for the refugees, but Your Majesty, even lowly concubines have assisted Concubine Liu in making winter clothes. Does this mean we can be officials too?!" Duke of Dingguo was seventy years old, still energetic, a rough man who practiced staff exercises daily. "Not only the lowly concubines, but also this old man''s daughters-inw, granddaughters-inw, and granddaughters all helped!" "Does this mean my entire female household should be given official titles?" "Your Majesty, please don''t mind my blunt words, but if we follow what you say, does that mean all who participated in making clothes should be given official ranks?" "We risked our lives for the people, our necks bearing scars as big as bowls, while they were still suckling at their mothers'' breasts!" Disagreement! The warriors strongly disagreed. Sewing clothes and getting official ranks, what did that make of their life-and-death struggles? Emperor Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. He hadn''t even said a word yet! These old folks... Even without Xiao''s consort''s reminder, he knew these people were clearly not absolutely loyal to him! He could hardly get a word in before they talked back for hours! Xiao Yunzhou had a headache. The warriors disagreed, and the civil officials also disapproved. But the civil officials were cunning, letting the warriors take the lead in opposing. "Your Majesty, please reconsider the hardships of the soldiers. After all, they had to kill five enemies on the battlefield to gain one rank in the past." Since the founding of Jing Country, military merits were still calcted by the number of enemy heads taken. One could only be promoted step by step after umting battle merits. The case of Pang Rusong, who captured ten thousand rebels directly, was an exception. Most soldiers had to fight bloody battles time and again to be promoted frommon foot soldier tomander of hundreds or thousands. "Lord Liu, what do you think?" Duke of Dingguo turned to Liu Wenchang angrily, "Do you also think your little girl should be given an official rank¡ª" "Hey, that''s nonsense!" Duke of Dingguo nodded, indeed it was! "Your Majesty, that''s utter nonsense!" Duke of Dingguo nodded and nodded, but halfway through, he froze, his face stiff. He had voiced his inner thoughts! He was over seventy and considered an elder rtive to the Emperor, being from the generation of the Emperor''s grandfather and a veteranmander. But to say the Emperor was talking nonsense, that was highly disrespectful! Duke of Dingguo felt he had been reckless and should not have been so arrogant, especially during the morning court session. If he didn''t give face to the Emperor, the Duke would not have a good end. Duke of Dingguo wanted to cover his mouth, but when he turned around, he realized¡ªdamn, he hadn''t said a word, his mouth hadn''t even opened! That wasn''t him speaking just now¡ª Who the hell was even bolder than him? Duke of Dingguo turned his head in shock, then frozepletely. "Hey, I object too, I think it''s nonsense, Duke of Dingguo." It turned out the one cursing was none other than Liu Wenchang, Concubine Liu''s own father! Duke of Dingguo''s mouth gaped open, never expecting Liu Wenchang to be this kind of father. "How could my little girl be a female official?" Liu Wenchang shook his head with concern. "I was just about to stand up and say it''s uneptable." All the civil and military officials, except for Duke of Dingguo who was elderly and did not attend the morning court sessions regrly, were stunned. Liu Wenchang''s words sounded familiar? All of them had an ominous feeling, and sure enough, in the next moment, Liu Wenchang began his familiar gestictions of pounding his chest and stomping his feet. "My little girl, what merits does she have? She only led the women of the capital in sewing five thousand winter clothes." "She only organized a charity sale that raised one million taels of silver." "s, what merits does she have to be a female official?" Liu Wenchang shook his head, "As your subject, I am the first to disagree. She could not have aplished anything without the help of other women!" "If she is to be promoted, every woman who participated in sewing clothes and the charity sale should be rewarded ordingly." Duke of Dingguo and all the civil and military officials were left speechless. "Duke of Dingguo is right, his entire female household participated, and each one should be rewarded for their contributions. None should be left out!" Liu Wenchang spoke, leaving Duke of Dingguo dumbfounded. On the dragon throne, Xiao Yunzhou was also full of admiration. He had underestimated this great man. Originally, he thought Liu Wenchang was foolish, but now he realized he was greatly mistaken. Concubine Liu''s kind treatment of those around her, the sincere appreciation she received, was mostly learned from Liu Wenchang! Listen, the venerable Liu Wenchang demanded rewards for all women who sewed clothes and participated in the charity sale. And this included the Empress Dowager''s share! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes were opened, looking at Liu Wenchang with the realization that as the Emperor, he should learn from this great man. Not a wolf in sheep''s clothing, but rather, bringing everyone together for a win-win situation! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes sparkled as he looked at Liu Wenchang, reaching out and patting him, "Lord Liu speaks correctly, I have been negligent." All the civil and military officials: "..." "But I want to confer a title on Concubine Liu not only for the two past deeds Lord Liu mentioned, but also because yesterday, Concubine Liu performed another great service." All the civil and military officials were stunned. Liu Wenchang''s brows twitched, his daughter had performed another service? Don''t mention it, it must have been with the help of his granddaughter. He immediately understood, his face showing humility, "Your Majesty overpraises me. If it were not for my daughter in the pce, perhaps she would never have had the chance to perform any service in her life." Xiao Yunzhou''s dragon body shook. He now realized that Liu Wenchang''s skills also included ttering the dragon! He ttered better than all the civil and military officialsbined. Listen, he implied that his daughter''s wisdom all came from his teaching as her husband! "Lord Liu, there is no need for modesty," Xiao Yunzhou suppressed a smile, "Concubine Liu''s pure heart and kind nature, her concerns for themon people and frontier soldiers, her efforts to provide welfare¡ªthese are her own virtues, unrted to me." "Haha," Xiao Yunzhou could not help butugh at this point, "At most, I have only provided Concubine Liu with some opportunities to demonstrate her abilities." "Unlike other men, I am not so petty as to prevent my wife from taking the spotlight," Xiao Yunzhou scanned the civil and military officials. "I disdain such behavior." "Other than that, I have not helped Concubine Liu at all. Lord Liu, please do not attribute Concubine Liu''s merits to me anymore." Old Liu nearly had a facial spasm. In good conscience, he had no intention of praising the Emperor, he was praising his precious granddaughter. How brazen of the Emperor! "Ahem," Liu Wenchang was afraid that if he listened to the Emperor''s nonsense any further, he would be guilty of disrespect. He quickly interrupted the Emperor''s self-deprecation, "Your Majesty, you just said that my daughter has also worked to provide for the soldiers?" "I dare not im that. She has merely used the proceeds from her charity sales to supplement the military provisions, but that was still thanks to the efforts of Chancellor Fu Cha and a few other schrs." "My daughter did not create money out of thin air; she relied on everyone''s help." Chancellor Fu Cha''s face stiffened upon hearing this. None of them schrs could have aplished this feat on their own. This meant that Concubine Liu was no ordinary woman. But to confer an official title on her for just this one deed, the Emperor must have gone mad. "Not just this one deed," Xiao Yunzhou interrupted his disdainful thoughts. Chancellor Fu Cha took a deep breath and stepped forward, "Your Majesty, I also heard from Jiang Li yesterday that Concubine Liu has developed a new type of winter clothing." "But winter clothing is ultimately the work of merchants and cloth makers. Does Your Majesty intend to confer official titles on cloth makers as well?" The Duke of Dingguo nodded in agreement, "That''s right." But as soon as he finished speaking, Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. "What if I said this was no ordinary winter clothing?" The entire court of civil and military officials was taken aback. What was it? Edible winter clothing? "Heh, unless this winter clothing is as valuable as military provisions worth tens of thousands of taels of silver, even if it were made of gold, what of it?" The Duke of Dingguo scoffed. "What difference is there between cotton and cloth clothing? Unless this winter clothing can serve the purpose of military provisions worth tens of thousands of taels, aiding our frontier soldiers on the battlefield, then today, not only would I confer an official title on a woman, I would confer a hundred official titles without hesitation!" Liu Wenchang, who had already heard about down jackets from his son, closed his eyes in dismay. Sure enough, in the next moment, Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes shed and he mmed the table. "As expected of the well-traveled Duke of Dingguo, his words hit the mark." "!?" "The new down jacket developed by Concubine Liu is a lightweight winter clothing that allows frontier soldiers to easily engage in battle, y enemies without hindrance, yet stay warm in the cold!" "It is not military provisions, but in the biting winds, it is no less valuable than military provisions! On the frozen battlefield in December, it can save a soldier''s life!" The Duke of Dingguo suddenly looked up in astonishment. Chapter 97 Chapter 97 In the past regime of Jing Country, there were two issues encountered during military expeditions. One was entering the mrial jungle during the scorching summer, where the high temperature could easily cause severe illness among the soldiers. The other was fighting at the border during the bitter cold, where many soldiers would freeze to death amidst the ice and snow. "Your Majesty, did you just mention winter expeditions?" Duke of Dingguo was startled by the Emperor''s words and looked up in astonishment. "What can a dress made by Concubine Liu do?!" Not only Duke of Dingguo, but all the military generals present at the morning court had stopped their mor. Even the Minister of War, Ma Rui, was staring at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou without blinking. Xiao Yunzhou, with an expression that seemed to say ''Didn''t I just tell you not to rush?'', stood up from his throne. "Since Duke of Dingguo is curious, let''s go to the drill ground together." Duke of Dingguo was taken aback, and the other generals and ministers of the War Department who stayed in the capital followed Xiao Yunzhou out with curiosity. The group of civil ministers followed with twitching lips. "Mr. Liu, haven''t you heard about the fur coats that the Empress developed?" Jiang Li curiously squeezed next to Liu Wenchang. "I don''t know," Liu Wenchang waved his hand and firmly closed his mouth, "I don''t know anything, I''m also very surprised." The civil ministers: "..." They were really fed up with this old man! The morning court session had just started not long ago, and daybreak was just beginning. All the civil and military officials followed Xiao Yunzhou out of the Hall of Humble Administration, shivering in the cold. The North wind was howling, and their official robes were no match for it. When the ministers entered the pce, they were covered in fur or cloaks made of mink or rat fur. But since they had just had an audience with the Emperor, they had taken off their cloaks and handed them to the young eunuchs when they entered the Hall of Humble Administration. Now, the morning court session was not over yet, and the young eunuchs dared not appear. The ministers, without their cloaks and furs, were shivering from the cold, and had to tolerate it! "Hisss¡ª" The frail civil ministers had already shrunk their necks and dared not speak. The moment they opened their mouths, the cold wind would pour directly into their throats. The generals were okay, after all, they were used to the hard days, hunger, and cold. "Your Majesty, let''s walk a bit faster, so we don''t freeze the elderly ministers to death," Duke of Dingguo still had the leisure to care about the civil ministers. But after saying this, Duke of Dingguo also sucked in a breath of cold air. The nape of his neck felt like it was frozen by the sudden drop in temperature outside. His limbs were stiff, and his movements were slowing down. Ah, he was old. He couldn''t even stand the cold in the capital. Think about the border, with few trees and low walls, the ice was three or four times thicker than in the capital. During the reign of the previous Emperor, when the armies of Jing and Chu were at a standoff, he had led his soldiers to guard in the icynd for an entire night. By the next morning, many of the soldiers had frozen stiff. He was strong back then and survived. But that night, he was carried into the tent and it took him a while to recover. Ah. Now he was old,pletely old... Duke of Dingguo looked worried as he looked towards the northwest direction. The wind in the capital this year was sharper. It must be colder at the border. He didn''t know how many soldiers stationed at the border had fallen ill or frozen to death. "Your Majesty, you know. I don''t like to joke about matters rted to war." Duke of Dingguo clenched his square face, his white beard was wet from the condensation of his breath. He was the first to follow the Emperor into the drill ground, and said in a deep voice, "If you''re trying to deceive me today, I will resign immediately!" Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Look, one by one, they are all his elders, all subjects of the Former Emperor! Their loyalty exists, but it''s not to him, Xiao Yunzhou, the emperor, but to the Jing Country left by the Former Emperor! From beginning to end, they are notpletely devoted to him, the sessor to the throne. Xiao Yunzhou takes a deep breath, turns his head to see a bewildered Liu Wenchang standing in the corner, and the feeling of defeat in his heart suddenly dissipates. He needs to learn from Concubine Liu, learn from Concubine Liu. I''m not angry. Even when her own father stole the money for her candied hawthorn, Concubine Liu didn''t get angry. What is he angry about? He was just robbed of his subjects'' loyalty by his own father. Sooner orter, he will gain the trust of these old subjects! Xiao Yunzhou calms his mind and waves to Wei Zheng, "Choose two groups of guards, one group to wear Concubine Liu''s down jackets, and one group to wear normal cotton clothes." "Group fight!" In the schoolyard, rows of weapon racks stand tall. The guards follow orders, drop their weapons on the spot, take off their original cotton clothes, breathe white mist in the cold, but they remain silent. The Duke of Dingguo''s eyes shed with satisfaction, and he praised. Turning his head, he saw five little eunuchs carrying five trays filled with new winter clothes. At this sight, the Duke of Dingguo didn''t even care about his own coldness, widened his eyes and stroked his beard, "Emperor, is this the new winter clothes you''ve been praising?" "Bullshit!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows twitched. Over there, the Duke of Dingguo saw on this tray ¡ª winter clothes that were almost twice as thick as the old ones, and he was so anxious that he sprayed, "These new clothes are four to five inches thicker than the old ones! The pcedies don''t know the battlefield situation. Warmth is important, but if they can''t move around, what''s the use of looking like a bear!" "When someone stabs at you with a spear, the clothes are so thick, dumb and bloated, how can you dodge it!" "Your head is about to be poked off... it''s as warm as July, but it''s useless! It''s obstructive, obstructive!" The Duke of Dingguo was so angry that he didn''t even want to scold thedies, surely, this mistake must be the emperor''s fault, "Emperor, are you confused? It''s normal for pcedies to not understand, but you don''t understand either, what a waste that you even learned archery with me." "Ah, I''ve taught you in vain, I might as well teach your pcedies directly! Perhaps the pcedies would learn better than you, it makes me furious!" The Duke of Dingguo always had a hot temper, like a firecracker when he was young, and even more so as he got older. The whole court was looking at their toes. After Xiao Yunzhou ascended the throne, he proposed that the Duke of Dingguo, under the pretext of caring for the Duke''s old injuries, only needed to attend the morning court three times a month. This approach was absolutely right. If the Duke of Dingguo attended the morning court a few more times, the emperor would sooner orter be annoyed to death by him. Sure enough, when they looked at Xiao Yunzhou''s expression, they saw he was not lightly angry ¡ª his face was red, and he was trying hard to hold back hisughter... Hmm? The whole court was stunned. The emperor is holding back...ughter?! The Duke of Dingguo finished scolding the emperor, without any regret. While he was still alive, he should scold the emperor a few more times, wake him up, and stop the emperor from living in a dream. Otherwise, once his old eyes closed and the Jing Country faced war, the country would be in danger! He would rather the emperor hate him and fear him now, than let the country fall and the emperor be forced to hang himself by the enemy in the future! Duke of Dingguo''s eyes, like those of a tiger, stared unblinkingly at Xiao Yunzhou, only to quickly be stupefied. With his hands behind his back, Xiao Yunzhou gave a small smile and lifted his chin towards the Duke, signaling him to look back at the guards on the field. "Duke of Dingguo, you taught me, and I haven''t forgotten." "n before settling on the battlefield." "But today, it seems you''ve forgotten this principle yourself. You haven''t observed carefully, so why are you rushing to conclusions?" "Duke of Dingguo, turn around and see." The Duke blinked, then finally turned around. During the turning process, he had already seen the surprised look in the eyes of the Minister of the Military Department next to him, gazing behind him. The Duke quickly followed his gaze and was instantly taken aback. He saw the five guards who had taken off their old clothes, epting the thick, new-style winter clothes, about four or five inches thick, from the hands of the young eunuch. With just a pat, the thick winter clothes were instantly pressed t on the ground! These five guards, holding the winter clothes, were stunned, "So light!" What? Duke of Dingguo perked up his ears and widened his eyes. How could such a thick piece of clothing be light? But very soon he saw that these five guards, now wearing the new-style winter clothes, moved like cheetahs, swift as lightning, and threw the guards in old clothes over their shoulders and onto the ground! Everyone in the court was left with their mouths open. The Duke''s eyes were almost popping out of his head. Chapter 98 Chapter 98 The practice ground was still filled with the sounds of other guards sparring, but at this moment, it was no longer important. "Is this an act?" The Duke of Dingguo stared with wide eyes at the five guards lying on the ground, quickly questioning himself and refuting his own doubt. "No, it''s not an act, it''s real." "Their movements, their speed, almost unaffected by the winter clothes!" The Duke of Dingguo rushed over and grabbed the victorious guard who was still standing, attempting to strip off his clothes with his bare hands! But as soon as he touched it, the Duke of Dingguo froze, feeling the texture of this new winter coat¡ªdown jacket! It was bundled up into lumpy protrusions, bulky and unsightly, but exceptionally fluffy and soft, not stiff at all, a feeling he had never experienced before. "So thick, yet so light..." The Duke of Dingguo stood dazed for a moment, then forcibly pulled one off the guard and put it on himself! The guard who had his clothes stripped off shed a notable look of reluctance on his face. The Duke of Dingguo did not miss this nce, immediately snorting, "I''m just trying it on, I''ll return it shortly!" "It''s just a winter coat, I''ve had marten and tiger fur cloaks before, I''m not going to covet your clothes¡ª" The Duke of Dingguo spoke impulsively, his mouth quicker than his brain. But halfway through, as he was putting the coat on, he got stuck. He couldn''t finish the rest of his words. This down jacket was made of dark ck fabric, sewn in an ugly, unremarkable patchwork, and especially bulky. But once he put it on, it was incredibly light! He felt no weight on his body at all. It felt like he could soar into the wind! The Duke of Dingguo stood dazed, then took a few steps forward, drew the sword from the guard''s waist, and showed off some fierce moves! The swishing sound of the wind cut through the practice ground''s vast sky, piercing the ears of the officials. One by one, the martial warriors widened their eyes in observation. The civil officials did not understand the subtleties, but the warriors saw it clearly. "The Duke of Dingguo''s vigor is undiminished from his prime!" "Hah! It seems these winter clothes haven''t hindered the Duke''s movements at all!" "Is it really that light and convenient?" "How is this possible?!" "I want to try it too!" The older generation of warriors, whose experience wasparable to the Duke of Dingguo''s, boldly rushed forward to snatch the remaining ''Bear Winter Clothes'' from the four victorious guards! "Don''t worry, don''t worry, we''ll just try them on like the Duke of Dingguo and return them to you¡ª" The four newly arrived old warriors all said this. And then, there was no "and then." After a flurry of sword and spear maneuvers, they felt the clothes on their bodies, no, the down jackets, their eyes shining brightly! What returning to the guards? It was unthinkable! "Ahem, Your Majesty, how many of these winter clothes do we have?" "Just bestow this one to this old servant, I won''t need any other rewards from Your Majesty for the New Year." "Hmm, practice ground guards, Your Majesty, you should reward them with new ones? This one has been drenched in my sweat, I won''t return it, lest I burden them." The five guards who had their clothes stripped off: "..." The entire court of officials: "..." Speechless. Shameless, thick-skinned. Once they put it on, they refused to take it off? Just say you''re robbing them! The Duke of Dingguo didn''t even blush. He had already returned the sword to the guard, his wrinkled old hands calmly extending into the down jacket¡ªtherge pockets on either side of the hem! This coat even hadrge pockets! The Duke of Dingguo was astonished. Xiao Yunzhou nodded towards him, "These can hold some supplies for marching, such as charcoal pencils, fire starters, small knives." "Duke of Dingguo, what do you think of Concubine Liu''s idea?" The Duke of Dingguo opened his mouth. Useful, incredibly useful! Nowadays, some soldiers keep their small knives and whatnot in their boots, clothes, which stinks of sweat when they take them out. More importantly, bending over, taking off shoes, patting their chests¡ªit all wastes time! This down jacket is lightweight and can carry items, an all-in-one! Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "A woman who has never been on the battlefield, Concubine Liu''s understanding of marching matters is far inferior to the Duke of Dingguo''s." Ah. The Duke of Dingguo''s old face reddened. He knew more, but while he was skilled in ying enemies and leading armies, this military winter coat was truly beyond a woman''s expertise. "The idea for these coat pockets came to Concubine Liu a couple of years ago when she was watching a y in the pce. In the y, a young male actor took out a token of affection from his sleeve." "Concubine Liu wondered if ''sleeve pockets'' could be added to these winter coats near the soldiers'' hands, closer than the hem." "Her experience pales inparison to your old wisdom, Duke. Please offer more guidance on areas for further improvement." Further improvement? What else? The Duke of Dingguo carefully recalled the ''exhrating'' feeling of his earlier sword maneuvers. He couldn''t think of anything. The only w with these winter clothes was¡ªthey were expensive! With the current tight military budget, could so many of these exceptional winter clothes be made to supply the entire border army? True, the national treasury had borrowed money from the people, but military expenditures and supplies were a bottomless pit, always going out with nothinging in. How could the army repay the people''s money? The Duke of Dingguo understood clearly that the money from the Qian Xing Bank could only be used for other purposes, not for the army. "These winter clothes have no ws," the Duke of Dingguo sighed. "If there is a w, it''s with the Ministry of Revenue, with those Chancellors of the Imperial Cab." "Concubine Liu is a fine woman, she has done nothing wrong." The Ministry of Revenue, the Imperial Cab: "???" What in the world, where did this conclusione from? They were standing there at the practice ground, and the me fell from the sky! Chancellor Fu Cha frowned. His deputy could not hold back, stepping forward to refute, "What does the Duke of Dingguo mean by this?" Martial warriors were unreliable, brainless, just a moment ago they were united with the civil officials in criticizing the Emperor''s appointment of a female official. Now they turned around and stabbed the civil officials in the back! Rude, vulgar, mindless! "You were talking about Concubine Liu''s appointment as a female official, about the winter clothes, why drag us into this?" The Duke of Dingguo red back, "You fool Shen Mian! What did I mean, of course I meant your ipetence!" "The pce has produced such excellent winter clothes, and when I think about how your ipetence means we can''t afford to make even twenty or thirty thousand for every soldier in the Jing Country army to have, I want to curse you all!" After the Duke of Dingguo''s exnation, the martial warriors, even the Minister of War, began nodding in agreement. "Are these winter clothes really that good?" The watching civil officials became curious. The Duke of Dingguo had been sluggish and pale from the cold just like them earlier. Now, after wearing these winter clothes, not only were his movements agile, his voice boomed... even his forehead was sweating! Five distinguished Dukes and Generals had put them on and refused to take them off. From Concubine Liu, to the Imperial Cab. From ck winter clothes, transforming into the Bear Winter Clothes. "This is good, whoever wears it knows it," the Duke of Dingguo waved his hand. "I suggest everyone tries it on. If our army can all have this, then we''ll no longer fear marching in winter!" "..." The whole court of civil and military officials, except for the five generals dressed like bears, gaped in astonishment. Have them try it on? Try what? Why don''t you all just take it off? "Hmm, we''ll have all you ministers try it another day," Xiao Yunzhou smiled with a shrug. "For now, there are only these five." "Ah!" The Duke of Dingguo frowned. "I just knew it, these clothes must be very expensive, with intricate craftsmanship? So light yet so warm." "I knew it, if these clothes can''t be poprized, they''ll just me the Ministry of Revenue and the Imperial Cab, no doubt!" The Ministry of Revenue and Imperial Cab''s mouths twitched. Chancellor Fu Cha cleared his throat lightly. "Silver thread and charcoal can also provide warmth, but the price is too high to promote in the army. Duke of Dingguo, please don''t be unreasonable." "Concubine Liu has merit, but these winter clothes cannot be extended to everyone, so they are not very useful. Forcing them into the army would overly burden the people''s finances." "Your Majesty, this minister reiterates, I do not object to rewarding merit, but Your Majesty should be just and fair, and measure merits ordingly. As for conferring titles on pcedies, I ask Your Majesty to reconsider." Chancellor Fu Cha kowtowed. The Duke of Dingguo stroked the winter clothes he wore fondly, clearly liking them, but upon hearing this could only sigh. "Aiya." Too expensive, can''t be used. Got excited for nothing. Just the generals wearing them is useless if the soldiers can''t. No matter how good, it''s pointless. The Duke of Dingguo and the other generals looked disappointed, and just as they were dejectedly preparing to remove the winter clothes and give up on the matter, they heard Xiao Yunzhouugh. "Chancellor Fu Cha and Duke of Dingguo both speak reasonably." "Coincidentally, regarding Concubine Liu''s winter clothes¡ªJiang Li, why don''t you exin the cost?" From the group of civil officials, the ''traitor'' Jiang Li finally raised his head and stepped forward. Facing the Duke of Dingguo and Chancellor Fu Cha, he spoke his first words of the morning court session. "These winter clothes are not expensive, just a sack of duck feathers." "...?" "???" "...??!" Chapter 99 Chapter 99 Duck feathers!? The entire court was shocked. From hatching duck eggs artificially, rapid duck fattening, to plucking feathers for clothing... this duck was used from head to toe. What cost? Duck feathers, they''re treated as trash, but even trash can be turned into treasure! "How about it? Duke of Dingguo, do you think Concubine Liu''s contribution to these winter clothes can bepared to military expenses?" Xiao Yunzhou nailed down his point, speaking up. "Chancellor Fu Cha, do you think these winter clothes are not suitable forrge-scale use, unable to be rolled out to the army?" Chancellor Fu Cha and Duke of Dingguo both held their breaths. "What about it? Can Concubine Liu be appointed as one of the Ladies-in-Waiting?" "......" The entire court was silent, their resentful gazes unanimouslynded on Duke of Dingguo and Chancellor Fu Cha. One of them said, as long as Concubine Liu''s winter clothes are useful, the emperor can appoint hundreds of Ladies-in-Waiting without a problem. Another said, as long as Concubine Liu''s winter clothes can be rolled out to the army, they can be rewarded for their merits! Well then! Now, there''s no way to argue with the emperor. Otherwise, the words of a Duke and a Chancellor would be contradicted, turning into hot air! Duke of Dingguo and Chancellor Fu Cha pursed their lips. "My lord... I have no more objections." In the end, it was Duke of Dingguo who could bend and flex, not even afraid of death, naturally not afraid of losing face. "I agree with the matter of the Ladies-in-Waiting." As soon as Duke of Dingguo spoke, the other generals in fur coats also nodded. "I second it." "I agree!" "Along with Duke of Dingguo, I have no objections!" The generals and Ministry of Revenue officials gradually voiced out, their momentum bing astonishing! "Today I realized that it''s not necessary for a man to kill someone every five steps to be considered meritorious." "If all the women in the world were like the Empress, even if all my sry goes to the women, it wouldn''t matter!" A junior official from the Ministry of Revenue spoke out resoundingly. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes sparkled. The entire court of civil servants opened their mouths, then closed them again. "Good! Forget about women or men, today even if a childes up with something beneficial for the soldiers, and doesn''t add to the Ministry of Revenue''s debts, they should be made an official!" Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue summed it up, showing his loyalty. Xiao Yunzhou lightly cleared his throat. A child... cough, he felt a bit guilty hearing that. When his little princess grows up a bit more, he will definitely give her the most honorable title and thergest princess mansion! If his daughter, who is a celestial reincarnation, is willing, she can also be an official~ Though the idea of down jackets was Concubine Liu''s, but the gue and bank, those were all his little princess''s ideas! "Hey there, Duke of Dingguo and Uncle Jiang from the Ministry of Revenue are honest people, even willing to let children be officials~" The court returned to the hall, continuing the morning court procedures. Behind the emperor''s curtain, Xiao Chuchu, held by Wei Zheng, slowly woke up. When she woke up, she heard Jiang Li''s daring speech about children bing officials. Xiao Chuchu was instantly startled awake. "Uncle Jiang, you''re a good person, but let the adults deal with adult matters. If children think about them too much, they won''t grow tall~" "You can keep the high-ranking official position for yourself~" Xiao Yunzhou wanted tough after hearing this. It seems his little princess is azy one. No problem, his princess''s celestial ideas will keep him, the emperor, and the officials busy! His daughter is only a few months old, there''s no need for her to worry about these things. Even when she turns eighteen, gets married, she''ll still be daddy''s beloved little treasure! Xiao Yunzhou was in deep thought. If his precious daughter had to get out of her warm bed every day before dawn to attend court, a tiny person standing not even as tall as Chancellor Fu Cha, he as a father would surely be heartbroken. "Report if there''s business, retreat if there''s none." After discussing the matter of down jackets and the collection of embroidery workshops, Xiao Yunzhou was ready to leave the court. But unexpectedly, he heard the soft mutterings of his daughter. "Oops, I almost forgot, I haven''t done the lottery these days. I was too focused watching my mother make down jackets~" Heh. Xiao Yunzhou almost burst outughing on his throne. The court officials: "......" Was the emperorughing at them? Definitely! Laughing at them for being incapable ofing up with new ideas, not even as good as a woman! A group of ministers, feeling threatened and aware, decided they couldn''t ck off anymore, otherwise they would eventually be scolded by the emperor. But Xiao Yunzhou didn''t have time to care about them, he was all ears listening to his daughter drawing new skill books! "Heavenly spirits, earth spirits, bless me to draw something helpful for the strength of Jing Country!" "Oh my goodness¡ª¡ªlook at what I got!" "Methods for Making Instant Noodles and Other Fast Foods" "Water Irrigation Works" "Oh, my own skills have upgraded too......I can see everyone''sbat power now!" Xiao Yunzhou was wide-eyed. * In the prairie, the Khan of Wu Yun Country, received another envoy from Chu State! "Noble Khan of the Wu Yun Country, if you do not trade with Chu State but choose to trade with Jing Country, you will regret it in the future." "My Chu State is more powerful than Jing Country, whether it be weapon making or winter food storage, we are superior to Jing Country, and Chu State is not short of silver......" The Chu State envoy, full of threats and enticements, left a pile of generous gifts before leaving. The Khan of Wu Yun Country''s face gradually darkened, "Did we choose the wrong brother to befriend?" Jing Country is not as strong as Chu State. Is the benefit brought by trade to the Khan of Wu Yun Country superior to that of Chu State? The Khan of Wu Yun Country frowned, "Call Prince Erxi." Erxi was one of the envoys to Jing Country at that time. But before the guard could leave, he lifted the tent curtain and came out. "Khan, Prince Erxi is waiting outside, he said that it is nearing the New Year, and the border city of Jing Country is holding an event. The Tian Tan District, which has opened trade between the two countries, is particrly lively, and he invites you to enjoy it together." "??" Khan of Wu Yun Country put down his wine cup, he was not in the mood! But soon after he went, he was shocked. "This duck is so plump......Peking Duck, our imperial kitchen, cough, have our servants been to this market to buy it?" The Khan of Wu Yun Country, disguised as amon man of Wu Yun, was on an incognito outing. The roasted duck wrapped in a roll, delicious to the extreme, could even be eaten on horseback! It was just too small, one bite each, he hadn''t even gotten over it when it was gone. Khan of Wu Yun Country, who had just devoured a whole roasted duck, was eager to have it back in his pce. "Bring a thousand!" "...... I didn''t bring you here to see this." Erxi, the envoy at the time, was at a loss whether to cry orugh. He turned around and took the Khan to the chicks and ducklings next door. "What, how is it so cheap? Jing Country is so kind to my Wu Yun Country!" The Khan was shocked, the price of these chicks and ducklings was half of what Chu State offered. The envoy from Chu State, so full of bravado, had said in broad daylight that the goods from Chu State were both affordable and of high quality! Just wait, we should let them see! "Emperor of Jing Country is sincere, they wouldn''t sell us short, would they?" Wu Yun''s Khan was somewhat touched. He had never met Xiao Yunzhou, but he didn''t expect the Emperor of Jing Country to be so naive and innocent. He had thought of selling his goods to Jing Country at a high price from the start. "Heh heh heh, indeed!" The old man at the Jing Country''s stallughed heartily. "In order to establish good rtions between the two countries, we in Jing Country have specially raised a batch of chickens and ducks to sell to you at a low price." These were all hatched inrge quantities on y kang by artificial means, not incubated one by one by mother hens and ducks. Being mass-produced makes them cheaper, doesn''t it? But this technology, it must not be disclosed. The old man selling chickens and ducks from Jing Country was very conscious of protecting his country''s secrets and resolutely refused to tell the people of Wu Yun Country. "Our Emperor from Jing Country is a good man." Khan of Wu Yun was astonished, "By the Eternal Blue Sky... Jing Country does not deceive me." They even reared a batch of cheap chickens and ducks especially for Wu Yun. This is because they know that every winter, Wu Yun spends arge sum of money to buy grains. Jing Country is saving them money! "Indeed," the egg-selling old man continued to coax the seemingly wealthy and naive Wu Yun merchant, "Our Emperor from Jing Country even said, ''Do not waste money.''" "If you have money, you should make your money work for you. Don''t buy expensive items and waste it unnecessarily." "Making money work for you, you understand, right?" Khan shook his head in confusion. "Ah, you are not well-informed, my friend. You don''t even know about Jing Country''s bank, which opened in our town yesterday. Wow! If you deposit a hundred taels of silver for a year, they give you twenty taels back!" Khan of Wu Yun''s eyes widened. What? Jing Country has such a good thing!? Can other countries deposit there too? * Imperial Garden of Jing Country. Xiao Yunzhou, holding Xiao Chuchu, was deep in thought. Who would have thought that after raising pigs, he, as an emperor, would have to deal with... food? ¡¾Instant noodles are a good thing, let me see how to make the seasoning packet.¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked at Wei Zheng. "Go, the Empress Dowager''s birthday ising up. Call the head of the Imperial Kitchen to me." "I want to research the recipes of the Imperial Cuisine." Wei Zheng''s face was filled with confusion. Huh? After dealing with clothes, the emperor is dealing with food? Is he going to keep jumping from one thing to another? "Oh, also call Concubine Liu and Duke of Dingguo." Chapter 100 Chapter 100 As the Duke of Dingguo was about to leave the pce, he was called back, looking puzzled. "You all go ahead. This old man will return and see what the Emperor hasmanded." The other dukes and generals looked at the Duke of Dingguo sympathetically. "Surely the Emperor won''t hold you ountable?" "You just scolded the Emperor fiercely." The Duke of Dingguo''s mouth twitched slightly, especially when he saw Concubine Liu boarding a carriage in the distance, his eyelid quivered. "So be it!" The Duke of Dingguo snorted. "This old man will admit his mistakes!" With that, he strode back to the pce. Led by the eunuchs to the Imperial Garden, the Duke of Dingguo''s eyesight was still sharp. From afar, he saw a pcedy speaking with Xiao Yunzhou. Although he had been imposing earlier, his old face now flushed slightly. Could this pcedy be none other than Concubine Liu, the one who designed the padded coats? The Duke of Dingguo was seventy years old. Thinking about how he had scolded a young woman who could pass for his granddaughter that morning, and one who cared for the soldiers at that, he felt uneasy. What a shame! He was even wearing a padded coat made by her, how could he face her... The Duke of Dingguo was in a dilemma, coughing to clear his throat. With his hands behind his back, he strolled into the Imperial Garden. "Greetings to Your Majesty." Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, about to excuse the Duke of Dingguo from formalities and offer him a seat. But to his surprise, the Duke of Dingguo quickly knelt down, turned around, and with a gentle smile, nodded towards Concubine Liu. His old face was beaming like a blossoming longevity flower, a kindly look that Xiao Yunzhou had never seen before! "Ah, could this be the benevolent and intelligent pcedy that Your Majesty spoke of?" "s, I''m old, but before my death, I never expected to meet such a heroine among women." The Duke of Dingguo chuckled, his eyes almost disappearing inughter. Completely different from his stern scolding of Xiao Yunzhou that morning! "Seeing such an extraordinary woman today, this old man can die without regrets." "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Was this really the same stubborn Duke of Dingguo? Xiao Yunzhou was seeing stars. A prestigious duke, shamelessly ttering, this was too much! [Hahahahaha,] Xiao Chuchu giggled in Wei Zheng''s embrace. [I believe it now, the Duke of Dingguo must be a brilliant military strategist!] [The Art of War says that to subdue the enemy''s forces without battle is the highest excellence. Compared to armed conflict, prevailing without bloodshed is even greater.] [How different he is from his fierce demeanor this morning. Now he''s all praises for my mother!] Xiao Yunzhou heard his daughter''s thoughts and was dazed. Looking at Concubine Liu, she too was flustered by the Duke of Dingguo''s unexpected ttery. Concubine Liu both returned his courtesy and bashfully stated that she had done nothing much. As Xiao Yunzhou observed the Duke of Dingguo, he realized that the glint in his eyes was not the sycophantic look of Wei Zheng''s usual fawning, but a hint of calcted scheming. Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. "Duke of Dingguo, you praise Concubine Liu with your words, but in your heart, you''re actually scheming against her?" The Duke of Dingguo was still struggling to find words topliment Concubine Liu, this was quite taxing for the old man. Absentmindedly, he nodded and blurted out, "A capable person must be appeased, so she''ll be happy and develop more things for our soldiers to use." Make the most of people''s talents! The Duke of Dingguo led troops in battle, and was skilled in rallying morale. One cannot be a good general by only scolding people. The Duke of Dingguo''s words made Xiao Yunzhou and Concubine Liu both amused and enlightened. Especially Xiao Yunzhou, who felt he had gained a little insight into how to win the devoted loyalty of followers. "It seems I still have much to learn from the Duke." "...?!" The Duke of Dingguo was startled. Damn. He had just let it slip! Fortunately, the thick-skinned Duke of Dingguo immediately acted as if nothing had happened. "Your Majesty summoned this old man, is it to have my old Chiyan Army troops wear the padded coats first?" With one sentence, he was seeking benefits for his former troops. Xiao Yunzhou learned from this as well. "No, it''s because this morning, when you spoke of military provisions, I recalled a story you told me about marching when you were teaching me horseback riding and archery." "Back then, after a great victory, you marched for three days straight on the return journey. But when you returned to the camp, you almost starved because no one had the strength left to cook." "After lying down for half a day, you finally mustered the energy to cook three pots of rice, saving everyone from starving to death." The Duke of Dingguo''s beard quivered. So the Emperor wasn''t giving him padded coats or scolding him, he was asking him to tell stories. Eh. Was the Emperor sometimes wise, and sometimes foolish? A three-year-old child, asking him to tell stories? The Duke of Dingguo mocked inwardly, but still followed Xiao Yunzhou''s words, recalling the harrowing experience of those times, and his face grew solemn. Those who haven''t experienced it can never understand the true peril. On the first day of the return journey, they had already begun to run out of rations. After marching for five or six days, they had devoured even the injured horses. When they finally returned to the camp, the aftermath of the battle and the continuous marching became even more apparent. They were hungry, exhausted, and most were wounded or ill. Many people copsed on the ground as soon as they reached the camp, their wounds reopening. Who would cook...even he couldn''t get up. They scraped up some raw dough and shoved it into their mouths. It wasn''t untilter, after regaining some strength, that he cooked the rice, regardless of proper methods. But there was no vor... It wasn''t until the next day, when a few less severely injured went out and caught a few wild chickens, that everyone had a little oil and moisture in their stomachs. The Duke of Dingguo didn''t want to recall that incident. Just thinking about it made him want to curse. Damn it, no reinforcements when they needed them, no provisions when they needed them. Who could have imagined that after surviving the enemy''s attacks in battle, they''d almost die of starvation and exhaustion on the way back... The Duke of Dingguo looked at Xiao Yunzhou, his expressionplex. Since that time, his personal troops always included those who could hunt and cook simple meals... who knew this kind of life, fearing not battle but dying from ack of food. "Well, the battlefield is ever-changing and situations areplex." The Duke of Dingguo waved his hand. "What this old man said was just my own experience. Other generals have had their own share of perils, more or less." "In any case, before marching, check all preparations and make sure everything is as ready as possible. Not fighting unprepared battles is best." The Duke of Dingguo didn''t want to dwell on that incident any further. Talking about it was useless. It could happen again to other soldiers, but each battlefield situation is different, and the soldiers themselves must adapt and maneuver! "Ahem, back then this old Duke was lying helpless on the ground, and yet I was imagining something beautiful - if there were some fairy nymph who could prepare food in advance for my army camp, and when I led my troops back, the whole camp could feast on it. How wonderful that would be." The Duke of Dingguo reminisced with a dreamy expression. "But of course, that''s impossible," he sighed. As soon as he finished, Xiao Chuchu and Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up with realization. [Wait, isn''t that just instant noodles... isn''t that fast food technology!] [Military ration biscuits!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened. [The Old Duke is brilliant, his imagination is so vivid! He was just a step away from modernpressed rations and fast food technology!] [The Old Duke is a genius!] Hearing his daughter''s words, Xiao Yunzhou knew it was the ''right moment for reasonable boasting''! If not now, when else? Just as the Old Duke was about to finish his story, Xiao Yunzhou suddenly pped on a nearby peony branch. "Old Duke, repeat what you just said, about the fairy nymph preparing food for you in advance..." "Your words have inspired me, I think I may have found a solution!" The Duke of Dingguo opened his mouth, confused. What? Concubine Liu bit her lip, trying not tough out loud. The Emperor was getting better and better at pretending! "Perfect timing, the Head of the Imperial Kitchen is here. Let me discuss the preparations for the Queen Mother''s birthday feast with him - just listen to my idea and see if it''s feasible!" Chapter 101 Chapter 101 The Duke of Dingguo did not return home that day. He waited in the Imperial Kitchen until nightfall, finally waiting for the thirteen imperial chefs to muster all their strength and attempt to make the dishes that the Emperor described as ''cook and serve'' with rice, noodles, and vegetables... Dry rice crackers, rations... The Duke of Dingguo tried each one, with a strange expression on his face. Not very tasty. But it didn''t matter for military campaigns, it would do. Some were just like the rations they prepared themselves, nothing special, just a bit better in taste... it would do. The Duke of Dingguo spent the whole day trying these ''cook and serve'' dishes, going from initial enthusiasm to a nk expression and gradual disappointment. "Your Majesty, let the Imperial Kitchen experiment further, I shall return home first." The Duke of Dingguo was tired. He had truly believed the Emperor''s idea would work! After all this fuss for a day, nothing came of it. The Duke of Dingguo decided not to hold too much hope, to avoid greater disappointment. At his age, he couldn''t withstand such emotional swings. "Hmm... Duke of Dingguo, when you were on military campaigns before, you wanted some oil in your stomach, chefs, have you thought about oil?" Xiao Yunzhou was still ''inspiring'' the chefs of the Imperial Kitchen. The Duke of Dingguo was touched, the Emperor was still a good man, remembering his words. "Your Majesty, it''s gettingte, you should rest too." The Duke of Dingguo was not in a rush. But Xiao Yunzhou was impatient. These people in the Imperial Kitchen, no matter how much he guided them, they just couldn''t think of instant noodles! The dough could be fried, and then boiled in hot water. Then add salt seasoning packets and solid oil packets, dried vegetables and dried meat bits! s. Xiao Yunzhou finally understood the praise Concubine Liu had given to Liu Runnian before. It''s not just anyone who could grasp an idea with the slightest hint. It really made him anxious. Concubine Liu stood by, seeing the Emperor''s determined look that he wouldn''t give up until he figured this out, and she too grew anxious. Little Princess was already yawning in Wei Zhenghuai''s arms. She took a deep breath, "Your Majesty, this servant has an idea. I used to help my mother make preserved meat when I was home." "Once the preserved meat is cured, baked, and dried, it can be stored for a long time. Next year, you only need to heat it up with rice, or add it to noodles to eat. It has both vor and oil. A small piece is enough to make a meal tasty and nourishing." Ah! This is it! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up as he looked at Concubine Liu. As expected of the clever Concubine Liu! "Yes, yes, did you all hear that? Can you think of something based on the method of making preserved meat?" "Preserved meat can be air-dried, and used directly after heating next year. What about... vegetables, hot soup, rice and noodles!" The head chef of the Imperial Kitchen gasped, he had thought of preserved meat before, but the Emperor''s question was about food for military campaigns on the frontier. Ten thousand soldiers, each with preserved meat, how much would that cost? So the head chef had dismissed the idea of preserved meat outright. But now, with Xiao Yunzhou''s words, he opened up a new line of thinking for the head chef. Using the method of making preserved meat... extending it to soup, dishes, rice and noodles? This opened up a new perspective for the head chef, who was used to cooking exquisite dishes for the court. With eighteen skills in culinary arts, they immediately came up with condensed chicken and mutton soup blocks... as well as steamed, fried dough for noodles and buns... In the cold winter of the capital, once ced outside, the chicken and pork fats quickly solidified into blocks. Soon, the kitchen served up concentrated mutton soup ''instant'' packets, chicken soup ''instant noodles'', ''instant rice balls''... In Wei Zhenghuai''s arms, Xiao Chuchu''s sleepy eyes went wide, especially when she saw the te the head chef was holding¡ªit contained three stacks of soup packets, preserved meat bits, and noodle buns. "Your Majesty, apart from dried vegetables that we didn''t have time for today, everything else can be tried." [Holy shit, ancient version of instant noodles... oh, I can''t eat the roast duck, but I can drink the noodle soup~] Xiao Chuchu was delighted. [Every time I smell instant noodles, I go crazy with cravings, if I don''t eat them for a while, I get restless~] [I wonder what the ancient imperial chefs'' version of instant noodles will be like.] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth was watering as she became fully awake. Also wide awake and no longer feeling pain in his legs or back was the Duke of Dingguo! He watched as the imperial chef added a small seasoning packet and oil packet to the dried noodle bun, then poured in boiling water. In a short while, a rich aroma wafted through the imperial garden and into his nose. The Duke of Dingguo''s eyes widened as he rushed to the imperial chef''s side. "This... can be eaten right after heating? How long until it''s ready!?" "Just boil water and pour it in?" He hadn''t heard the imperial chef''s answer yet when he saw the solid soup block in the golden bowl gradually dissolving in the boiling water. The dried noodle bun slowly softened, changing from a lump into loose, distinct strands... In less than the time it took to drink a cup of tea, it had be a steaming bowl of preserved meat noodles in chicken soup! The Duke of Dingguo took a deep breath, not even waiting for Xiao Yunzhou''s invitation as he eagerly picked up his chopsticks and took a big mouthful. He gasped, his mouth scalded by the heat. But soon, the salty, rich, and mellow vor of the chicken soup, mixed with the golden aroma of the preserved meat bits in hot oil, barged straight onto his taste buds. The deliciousness made the Duke of Dingguo unwilling to spit it out. He gasped for air, then slurped down the scorching mouthful of noodles. In that instant, his eyes widened. These noodles were surprisingly chewy, bouncing between his teeth, yet smooth as silk. Combined with the savory vors of the chicken soup and preserved meat, it was bite after irresistible bite. This aroma, after standing in the imperial garden all day, tasted even more delectable, dispelling the winter chill and fatigue from his body. "Hmm... the proportion of dough and salt packets is light, it would indeed work to transport to the military camps!" The Duke of Dingguo said excitedly after finishing the whole bowl. "We don''t need chicken soup for everyone, but as long as there''s some salt and these tiny preserved meat bits to add vor for our soldiers, that''s enough!" The Duke of Dingguo knew that chicken soup was expensive and couldn''t be provided to everyone. But these preserved meat bits in the noodles were diced so small and thin. When he ate them, his teeth didn''t even detect them, only a lingering salty aroma and meaty taste on his tongue remained. Not satisfying, but sufficient for military campaigns, without being picky! "Your Majesty, I agree that Concubine Liu should be made a formaldy-in-waiting." This time, the Duke of Dingguo truly appreciated Concubine Liu. How did she think of preserved meat? Making it even smaller than pebbles on the street... quite good, a practical idea! "Your Majesty, winter clothes belong to winter, but this instant hot noodle dish is an entirely different matter," the Duke of Dingguo said, looking towards the Emperor. "When will you promote Concubine Liu? She has already given two suggestions to the army!" "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s brow twitched. Those in the army were always like this, protective of their own and unreasonable. They umted military merits but never spoke of vanity! Concubine Liu felt embarrassed, "I didn''t do anything, how can I take credit?" This time, she had merely run her mouth, and made no real contribution. The Duke of Dingguo waved his hand, full of vigor. "Tomorrow, I shall submit a memorial. The matter of female officials must be settled soon, and proper regtions must be established." "Determine their ranks, sries, and future promotions..." "Your Majesty, do you agree?" he asked. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly. "Oh, of course, Your Majesty has also made no small contribution this time," the Duke of Dingguo finally gave Xiao Yunzhou an approving look. "This old minister is truly gratified. On behalf of thousands of soldiers, I thank Your Majesty." A smile finally appeared on Xiao Yunzhou''s face. "Once the weather clears in a few days, Duke of Dingguo, apany me to the military camps outside the capital tofort the soldiers. We shall bring them the new winter clothes and these instant hot meals. What do you think?" The Duke of Dingguo beamed and nodded repeatedly. "Your Majesty is considerate. This old minister will definitely go." Even though he knew that the Emperor was inviting him to borrow his prestige in the army to win over the soldiers'' hearts, the Duke of Dingguo was willing this time. But soon, Xiao Yunzhou frowned. Little Princess Xiao Chuchu rudely stuck her little finger into the golden bowl in front of Wei Zhenghuai, then put it into her own mouth, directly tasting the broth of the instant noodles. [Woo~ This familiar vor, though slightly different, but... I''m alive again! Hahaha!] Xiao Chuchu was overjoyed and rushed towards the Duke of Dingguo. The Duke of Dingguo was about to have his second bowl of instant noodles. She wanted to sneak a bite~ Since she had no teeth, she could sip it~ But just as she grabbed the Duke of Dingguo''s robe and made him chuckle, her grape-like eyes suddenly froze. [Huh, I can see the Duke of Dingguo''sbat power!] [73 (in declining state)!] [95 at his peak!] [Damn, an old injury on his right knee, lung disease, chronic stomach problems.] [Woah, the Duke of Dingguo has eaten too much greasy food today and was exposed to the cold at the training grounds. His stomach and knee ailments are about to re up! Hisbat power will soon drop below 60, irreversibly!] Xiao Yunzhou red in shock. Concubine Liu held her breath. Chapter 102 Chapter 102 [Oh no, what should I do? Duke of Dingguo is likely to have an incident tonight.] Xiao Chuchu was anxious. She lost her appetite for instant noodles. On the other side, Duke of Dingguo was preparing to leave the pce. "Your Majesty, if you n to inspect the troops at West Mountain, please send someone to notify this old subject. I will return home and wait, ready to depart at any time." [s,] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth drooped and her eyes grew sorrowful. [At that time, you may not be able to get up anymore...] Duke of Dingguo looked tall and robust, his frame broad and sturdy. Even at the age of seventy, he did not have the withered appearance of an ordinary elderly person. But at that moment, Xiao Yunzhou felt a pang hearing his daughter''s words. His martial arts prowess, which had once reached 95 in his prime and was dedicated to Jing Country for his entire life, was now about to drop below 60. And it was irreversible. He could not let Duke of Dingguo leave the pce in such a state! At least inside the pce, there were imperial physicians! [For an acute stomach illness, if treated promptly, there is still hope~] Xiao Chuchu also felt that it would be better for Duke of Dingguo not to return home. [I just remembered, it seems like in the novel, the imperial physician said that if treated in time, Duke of Dingguo''s condition would not have be so severe and untreatable. But Duke of Dingguo could endure pain so well that he suffered for two whole days before calling the imperial physician, which was toote.] Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. "Duke of Dingguo, ¡ª¡ª" "You taught me archery and horsemanship in the past. Would you be willing to stay tonight and teach my princes tomorrow morning?" Duke of Dingguo was taken aback. The infant Xiao Chuchu also blinked her big, grape-like eyes at Xiao Yunzhou. [Hmm, a coincidence?] [I just recalled Duke of Dingguo''s illness tonight and the Emperor father has already arranged for him to stay?] Xiao Yunzhou''s body stiffened. If possible, he truly wished his little princess would never find out. She could remain happy and carefree, freely imagining whatever she pleased in her heart. But looking at the white-haired Duke of Dingguo, Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes, and in that breath, he made a choice. Even if his daughter sensed the abnormality today and realized that her father the Emperor might have read her spiritual hints, he had to do it! If he abandoned the old meritorious official who protected the country, letting the flying birds be shot, the good bows hidden, the sly rabbits killed, and the stray dogs boiled... then when he, the Emperor, died, he would have no face to meet his ancestors and these meritorious officials of Jing Country! "Wei Zheng, arrange amodations for Duke of Dingguo, in the side pce of my Chonghua Pce." Xiao Yunzhou spoke. Wei Zheng was astonished, and the Xiao Chuchu he was holding was also surprised, blinking her eyes. The pce rarely allowed officials to stay overnight. Previously it was the elderly Liu Wenchang, and now it was Duke of Dingguo! [Ah, is it really such a coincidence? Is the Emperor father going to summon imperial physicians for Duke of Dingguo next?] The little face of Xiao Chuchu disyed utter shock. Xiao Yunzhou smiled wryly, but could only continue instructing Wei Zheng, "The Duke is of advanced age. He has apanied me and worked hard today. Go and summon imperial physicians to examine the old Duke''s pulse." [!] The infant Chuchu in the swaddle widened herrge, watery grape-like eyes. Biting her pink lips, [ording to the storyline, Duke of Dingguo fell ill in winter and did not receive timely treatment. How did the Emperor father discover it this time?] [Oh my, is it my fault or the Emperor father''s fault?] Behind Xiao Yunzhou, his fists clenched tightly. And beside him, Concubine Liu, who had intended to speak, furrowed her brow with concern as she heard her daughter''s thoughts and looked at the Emperor. "Your Majesty, this subject need not stay overnight. My body is still sound, and there is no need to trouble the imperial physicians." Duke of Dingguo waved his hand, refusing. However, Xiao Yunzhou had already made up his mind. "An old horse knows the way. Today, I was able to have the instant noodles thanks to recalling the stories of war and horses that Duke of Dingguo once told me." Duke of Dingguo was taken aback, for it was indeed true. It was because the Emperor reminisced about the hardships that he came up with the idea of instant noodles. "In the future, I will also grow old," Xiao Yunzhou sighed. "I hope my princes will always remember Duke of Dingguo''s past hardships, and remain vignt even in times of peace, so that Jing Country''s soldiers will continue to improve." Duke of Dingguo was stunned, his dim old eyes flickering, as if seeing the Emperor for the first time. And beside him, Concubine Liu, who had previously been smirking at the Emperor''s pretentiousness, also had the same expression. In her heart, she had never truly revered Xiao Yunzhou. In fact, she had always maintained a wariness towards him. Emperors were cruel and suspicious, capable of sacrificing many for their own interests. But Concubine Liu never expected that Xiao Yunzhou would be willing to risk being discovered by his daughter for reading her thoughts, and potentially never hearing her thoughts again, just to save the elderly Duke of Dingguo, who could no longer take the battlefield. The Emperor... might be more benevolent than she had thought. He might... truly be starting to exhibit the qualities of an enlightened ruler. "Very well, then this old subject shall stay. No need to wait until tomorrow! Tonight, Your Majesty can summon the princes, and this old subject will tell them stories all night!" Duke of Dingguo eximed excitedly. Xiao Chuchu let out a sigh. [If the Emperor father also knows the storyline, he would not agree to let Duke of Dingguo stay up all night.] Xiao Yunzhou smiled wryly, but he could only object to the Duke''s unhealthy proposal, as his daughter had suggested. But before he could open his mouth, Concubine Liu spoke first. "Have the princespleted their studies in the study room? Last time, Cheng Qian was still reciting and memorizing until thete hours." Xiao Yunzhou listened and indeed felt greatly relieved. "That''s right, that''s right! Complete today''s tasks today. They still have their lessons for tonight." Duke of Dingguo frowned but could only let it go. "Your Majesty, this concubine has not stood for such a long time in a while and is feeling a bit tired." Concubine Liu lightly furrowed her brow. Xiao Yunzhou was even more delighted upon hearing this. "Then it''s perfect timing to see the imperial physicians!" "I knew you must all be tired. I... I also have a backache." Concubine Liu suppressed a smile. Duke of Dingguo was taken aback, and only then turned to examine Xiao Yunzhou''s expression, looking him up and down, especially at his back. "I''ve told you before, Your Majesty should not practice Taoism or meditate. How can a man''s back endure sitting all day long? You can''t do anything with a... you know..." Xiao Yunzhou: "..." His face turned red, then ck, then green! [Hahaha, is it true? It turns out my father is the one who needs to see a doctor but is too embarrassed to say it.] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but snicker in her heart. Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Duke of Dingguo had good eyesight and noticed the Emperor''s constipated expression. He immediately understood. "Oh, I get it. I''ll have the head physician take a look." He turned and nced at Concubine Liu, then pulled the Emperor forward four or five steps. He winked mysteriously at Xiao Yunzhou. "Some diseases must be treated early." "Don''t be afraid of embarrassment. The Emperor can just say that it''s the old minister''s back problem, and have the imperial physician take a look." "..." Xiao Yunzhou opened his mouth, then closed it again. He resolutely refused to acknowledge this nonsense. [Ding, your father Xiao Yunzhou has gained a die-hard follower¡ªthe Duke of Dingguo!] Xiao Chuchu opened her mouth, [Holy crap? How did he manage that?] Xiao Yunzhou soon heard his daughter''s exmation and was stunned himself. The Duke of Dingguo held his hand, patted his shoulder, and at that moment they seemed not teacher and student, nor ruler and minister. But rather brothers of many years. "A small matter. On the battlefield, there are many men who''ve injured their backs." "Don''t be afraid! They all have the old minister apany them to see a doctor!" Xiao Yunzhou coughed and choked, unable to speak. Looking at Wei Zheng again, he saw him staring fixedly at his own shoes. Xiao Chuchu in his arms had a shocked little pink face. [I see, I see, the Emperor Dad didn''t know the situation.] [He himself has a hidden ailment, so he identally hit the mark~ Oh, I''ve used up all my martial power viewings for today, otherwise I could still see his old back''sbat power...] Xiao Yunzhou took a breath, his face turning even darker. The fairy princess had been corrupted by the old guy! * During the tea break, the head of the Imperial Physician Bureau hurried to the Chonghua Pce, and immediately saw the Emperor''s jet-ck expression. But soon, with the Duke of Dingguo striking a pose, winking broadly, and letting the head diagnose his pulse, not long after, The head''s expression turned solemn, and he directly said, "The Duke of Dingguo has a hidden ailment, and the onset is imminent." "If it were dyed even a moment longer before calling me, I''m afraid no medicine or treatment would be effective." The Duke of Dingguo: "???" He widened his eyes, what? "Your Majesty, this minister will prescribe a medicine for the Duke right away to be decocted and taken! And acupuncture for an incense stick''s time, three times continuously tonight!" Chapter 103 Chapter 103 Upon seeing the Imperial Physician diagnose Duke of Dingguo''s illness, Xiao Chuchu finally closed her eyes peacefully in Wei Zhenghuai''s arms. "It seems everything will be alright." Xiao Chuchu breathed out a long sigh of relief. She had been through a long day, and now fatigue overtook her. In no time, she fell into a deep sleep. Xiao Yunzhou and Concubine Liu, seeing her worry-free, innocent little face, finally put their worries aside. Only Duke of Dingguo, with his beard bristling and eyes ring, still struggled on the bed, "Nonsense! Impossible! You, Imperial Physician, stop talking nonsense! Bring another Imperial Physician for me! I can kill you with one punch. How can I be ill?" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "......" "Your Majesty, I will go and write the prescription now." Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "Write it, and have someone run to prepare the medicine immediately! It must be quick!" Wei Zheng took the sleeping little princess to the warm chamber to be looked after by the nursemaid. Now, Xiao Yunzhou could finally drop his pretense. Duke of Dingguo, still not feeling anything wrong with him, tried to climb up from the bed. But Head Imperial Physician Hu, after finishing the prescription, immediately opened his acupuncture bag and started to undress Duke of Dingguo. "You scoundrel! You''re forcing this on me. I feel perfectly fine!" "It''s clearly the emperor who has something..." Before he could finish his sentence, Duke of Dingguo felt a sudden intense pain in his abdomen. His Qi and blood surged, his chest felt tight and his ribs hurt, he was almost out of breath. Thankfully, Head Imperial Physician Hu had already removed the needle, perfectly puncturing Duke of Dingguo''s Tianchi acupoint. Puff-! Duke of Dingguo coughed up a mouthful of stale blood on the spot! Everything in front of him turned dark, and finally, he gained a bit of rity. Duke of Dingguo, still in shock, heard the emperor whispering on the side. "I knew it, it can''t be wrong. If they said you''re going to get ill, you''re definitely going to get ill..." "!" Duke of Dingguo felt weak all over, and was shocked at the Emperor''s words. He struggled to turn his gaze towards Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who seemed moreposed than the Imperial Physician. Head Imperial Physician Hu was sweating profusely and extremely anxious. But the Emperor still calmly stood there, hands behind his back. "Don''t panic, stay calm," Xiao Yunzhou still had the strength tofort Duke of Dingguo. "Listen to Head Imperial Physician Hu, Duke of Dingguo, you will be fine." "If treatment is dyed, the damage to your body might be too great, and it will be impossible to recover your morning boxing fitness." "But it shouldn''t be life-threatening." "Duke of Dingguo, there''s no need to worry too much. If we treat it early, the damage will be minimal, and there''s a good chance of recovery." Duke of Dingguo, too weak to speak, just stared at the Emperor. The prince who used to be carried onto his horse has now grown into an emperor, standing tall and straight at his bedside. For the first time, Duke of Dingguo felt a bit reassured. Now, the Emperor seemed to have an odd ability to soothe people''s hearts. Because, everything the Emperor said seemed to be right. "How is Duke of Dingguo''s stomach disease? Can it be controlled by medication?" "And the knee pain, it''s windy today. Someone, bring hot wet cloth to apply heat to Duke of Dingguo''s knees!" Duke of Dingguo was shocked. How did the Emperor know that his knees were aching like a bug bite after standing for so long tonight? Today, because of the wind and standing for a long time, his old knee problem had red up. It was nothing serious, so he had been enduring it without saying a word. "Your Majesty, how did you..." When the warmed towel arrived, Xiao Yunzhou personally applied it to the Duke of Dingguo''s old knee injury. The Duke felt such a delightful sensation that his pores hummed with pleasure. How perfectly on point! How did the Emperor know exactly what to do? "Did you forget, Duke?" Xiao Yunzhou noticed the returning color in the Duke''s face and the unusual expression it held, and he lightly cleared his throat. "Long ago, after archery practice, you took me to bathe the horses and had rolled up your trouser leg." The Duke stared in disbelief. He did not fear pain, nor death. But he never imagined that the Emperor, at the tender age of seven or eight, had seen his old scar and remembered it for over twenty years? Even the Duke himself had almost forgotten. What did the Emperor look like when he was the Crown Prince? Yet, the Emperor remembered an old servant''s scar? "I naturally remember," Xiao Yunzhou affirmed. He stood beside the Duke''s bed, his face slightly flushed as he turned his gaze to the moon outside the pce. Only by doing this could he hide his guilt. If the little princess hadn''t mentioned the Duke''s knee ailment, he would have long forgotten. Now, remembering filled him with remorse. "You are a valuable asset to the country." "Each scar on your body symbolizes the peace of our kingdom." The Duke opened his mouth, and the hot tears in his old eyes could no longer be held back, rolling down his cheeks. "Your Majesty¡ª" "I am unworthy!" After being fed three bowls of medicine and undergoing heated acupuncture, the Duke was sweating profusely, hisplexion somewhat drained. But his eyes were clear and full of emotion! "I thought that you didn''t want me to attend the morning court sessions because you found my breath foul, and that I was always cursing." "So, it turns out, Your Majesty, you were worried about my health. I misjudged your kind intentions, I am ashamed¡­" Xiao Yunzhou opened his mouth in surprise, his face turning red. Actually, that wasn''t the case... But the Duke struggled to give Xiao Yunzhou a kowtow right there on the bed. "My life today was given by Your Majesty. From now on, I will follow Your Majesty''smands." "I believe that you will be a wise ruler, even if sometimes you are not very clever." "¡­" "But it''s okay, I am here, along with all the civil and military officials to assist you!" The Duke, panting heavily, was interrupted by Head Imperial Physician Hu before he could finish his speech and made to lie down on the bed again, not allowing the patient to continue exerting himself. Xiao Yunzhou guiltily turned his head away, not noticing the gaze of respect and admiration from not only the Duke but also from Head Imperial Physician Hu aimed towards him, their Emperor! *Ding.* *Your father, Xiao Yunzhou, has gained the loyalty of two followers.* *You need three more to unlock the attribute increase.* The next day, Xiao Chuchu woke up on her small bed and was stunned by the message. Huh? Now she had two loyal fans? Apart from the Duke, who was the other one? * Imperial Physician''s Office. Head Imperial Physician Hu pondered all night and finally came to a conclusion. "The Emperor''s medical skills are truly¡­ exceptional!" All the Imperial Physicians were stunned. "If it weren''t for the Emperor''s keen observationst night, the Duke of Dingguo would probably be confined to bed for ten days or more." Head Imperial Physician Hu took a deep breath, "From now on, for the Empress Dowager''s medical records, I will send them to the Emperor for review first." "I am really¡­ inferior to the Emperor." All the Imperial Physicians were dumbfounded. Is this for real? The next day, Emperor Xiao Yunzhou was also stunned when he met Head Imperial Physician Hu for his audience. Xiao Yunzhou, turning his head away from the Empress Dowager''s medical records with a cough, gasped for breath and looked at the honest face of Head Imperial Physician Hu. "How can I...cough...teach you how to do your work?" "You need to strive on your own, can you really expect me to do the work of the Head of the Imperial Medical Institute for you?" "Do I not have to manage other governmental affairs?" "I have the Ministry of Works, Ministry of Revenue...there''s never an end to the tasks." "How can I only treat the illnesses of just one or two people?" Head Imperial Physician Hu listened to this, his lips trembling. "So, that''s why His Majesty has been secretly learning medicine, but never put it into practice!" Xiao Yunzhou: "......" What? "He chose to abandon his medical practice and ascend to the throne because His Majesty has the hearts of all people, and he wanted to save all themoners." Xiao Yunzhou: "......!" Ah. When Head Imperial Physician Hu looked up again, his eyes were full of reverence, as if he were looking at a deity. "I understand now." Xiao Yunzhou leaned back tactically, his ears burning. [Damn, so the second person who is absolutely loyal to the Emperor is Head Imperial Physician Hu!] Xiao Chuchu finally solved the mystery early in the morning. Wei Zheng brought her to the Imperial Study. Seeing that the Emperor was about to finish his meeting, he prepared to bring the little princess to the desk to amuse Xiao Yunzhou. But the Imperial Physician Hu hadn''t left yet, and the little eunuch serving tea to the Emperor, not paying attention as he stepped back, bumped into Xiao Chuchu''s little arm! "How dare you! You fool!" Wei Zheng shouted anxiously. Xiao Yunzhou turned his head to look, and seeing his daughter grimacing, his heart ached and his brows furrowed. Just as he was about to scold in anger, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression froze. [Damn, this tea-serving eunuch, not only is his intelligence higher than the fourth prince, but hisbat power is 99, even higher than the Duke of Dingguo!] Xiao Yunzhou''s dragon-like eyes, which were about to explode with anger, suddenly widened, and he looked incredulously at the thin and weak little eunuch trembling on the ground. Chapter 104 Chapter 104 Inside the Imperial Study. Xiao Yunzhou was wide-eyed, looking at the skinny Little Eunuch who was kneeling on the ground, begging and apologizing in terror. "I deserve to die, I deserve to die!" "It wasn''t intentional!" The Little Eunuch kept knocking his head on the floor, his forehead quickly swelling and turning red, his face pale with fear. Was this the person with a strength of 99? Xiao Yunzhou doubted what he had heard. His daughter couldn''t be wrong, the only one who could be wrong was him. "Fool! You can''t even walk properly!" Wei Zheng was about to kick the Little Eunuch. "If you hurt the Little Princess, even your death wouldn''t be enough topensate!" Xiao Yunzhou saw Wei Zheng was about to kick the Little Eunuch to the ground, his heart pounded heavily. "Stop!" He put down his teacup abruptly and stood up. Wei Zheng was taken aback. The Little Eunuch on the ground was covered in tears and snot from fear. But Xiao Yunzhou stood up nervously. He quickly walked around the desk to Wei Zheng, took the blushing and wide-eyed Little Chuchu into his arms. Only when he held his daughter and smelled her milky scent did Xiao Yunzhou managed to breathe slightly easier. He took two steps back and looked at the still terrified Little Eunuch on the ground. "Your Majesty, shall I drag him out?" Wei Zheng asked. "Shut up." Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. Strength 99, even during his peak years of leading troops in wars, the Duke had only reached 93. Drag this Little Eunuch out? Who would dare to do it? Perhaps the imperial guards standing outside the hall wouldn''t even be able to do it! Little Chuchu was nowpletely awake in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, and suddenly remembered the plot of the novel. ¡¾Eh, I remember now, there was an assassin from the previous dynasty hidden in Jing Country''s pce, trying to assassinate the emperor to avenge the previous dynasty, could it be him?¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou was startled, the warmth from the brazier in the Imperial Study could not dispel the chill on his body. An assassin from the previous dynasty? The founding emperor of Jing Country, his ancestors, used to be farmers tending crops. But the previous dynasty was filled with disasters and heavy taxes, more and more people starved to death, and gradually there were uprisings by the destitute. The founding emperor of Jing Country was one of them. He led tens of thousands of followers to overthrow the previous dynasty, granted amnesty to the world, and renamed the country Jing. Most of the descendants of the previous dynasty''s imperial family died in the fire in the previous imperial pce. There were no records of anyone surviving. The more Xiao Yunzhou remembered, the more terrified he became. In recent years, Jing Country has faced crises from neighboring countries and gue, but never had they encountered an assassin from the previous dynasty! How many years has it been since the previous dynasty was overthrown? Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Little Eunuch on the ground who was only seventeen or eighteen years old, with clear eyes and handsome features. In an instant, he held Little Chuchu tightly in his arms, not even letting her little hands show. "Your Majesty, I deserve to die too, I didn''t protect the Little Princess well just now." Wei Zheng also knelt down to admit his mistake immediately. Xiao Yunzhou moved his terrified gaze to Wei Zheng, trying to stabilize his voice, "You... indeed deserve to die." Wei Zheng was taken aback, huh? Wait a minute. Wei Zheng was horrified. He was just speaking casually, what does this have to do with him! "Your Majesty, please punish me." Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, looking at Wei Zheng, who personally selected each eunuch to serve him tea and water, he felt that Wei Zheng''s judgement was terrible. Among all the little eunuchs, Wei Zheng, the chief eunuch, had the liberty to choose. And oddly enough, he picked a former dynasty''s assassin? Impressive, Wei Zheng... Xiao Yunzhou wished he could instantly have the imperial physician examine Wei Zheng''s vision! "Your Majesty." Wei Zheng attempted to speak further, but Xiao Yunzhou waved him off. "No more words. After your shift, go and ept your punishment." Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth. He nced at the little eunuch serving tea, who disyed a face of ''fear''. "He doesn''t have eyes on the back of his head, unaware you were holding the little princess behind him." The little eunuch serving tea was taken aback by Xiao Yunzhou''s words, raising his head in surprise. Wei Zheng was also taken by surprise, his face full of shock. The emperor defended the new tea server, not giving himself, the chief eunuch, a chance to speak? Punishing him, not the little eunuch? "I judge matters on their merits. Now, everyone, retreat outside the hall. I need to consult with the Imperial Physician." Xiao Yunzhou put on a calm front, holding the little princess tightly and protectively, not daring to rx in the slightest. He kept an eye on the little eunuch, who seemed to have the strength of 99 men, until he had left the royal study, then finally exhaled. "Wow, ording to the plot, the assassin who infiltrated the pce was raised as a death soldier, learning killing skills since childhood." Xiao Chuchu furrowed her little brows, "But why he infiltrated the pce and what his name is, seems not written. Did I forget?" Xiao Yunzhou: "......!" The Immortal Realm didn''t provide a hint for the little princess? Such important information, how could it be left out, forgotten? But his daughter is a reincarnated fairy, it''s normal for her to forget things. Sigh. Xiao Yunzhou sighed secretly. The warning from his daughter has already been of great use. He shouldn''t expect more. Just when Xiao Yunzhou was pondering who coulde to his rescue, his beloved little Chuchu began her analysis. "I remember the assassin has three sesame-sized red birthmarks on his right arm." "Whether the eunuch serving tea is the assassin, we can find out by lifting his sleeve." Xiao Yunzhou: "......" He lowered his head, looked at his innocent little Chuchu in his arms, and was at a loss whether tough or cry. His daughter was too naive. Who could dare to lift the sleeve of someone with the strength of 99 men? If he indeed has the three red birthmarks, he would know that his identity as an assassin has been revealed. What if he decides to end it all and barges into the royal study? How to handle that? "I remember the assassination takes ce on the Lantern Festival, a day of family reunion." As the time of the event approached, the plot in Xiao Chuchu''s mind became clearer. "Ah, on the day of the Lantern Festival, the assassin''s first strike hits the emperor''s right chest, injuring his lung." Xiao Yunzhou''s arm stiffened, and cold sweat broke out on his forehead. Was he really in such a bad situation? "After the first strike of the assassin, there wasn''t a single guard in the grand hall whose strength surpassed the assassin''s, making it impossible to stop him. As a result, the assassin took the opportunity tounch a second strike at the emperor." "!!" Xiao Yunzhou turned pale. He knew it! It would be hard to find a second person in the entire pce with the strength of 99! Especially this assassin, who, ording to the fairy, was proficient in killing techniques. "The second strike was aimed at the emperor''s heart. In the critical moment, the Empress Dowager stepped forward and shielded the emperor." What? Xiao Yunzhou''s face changed dramatically. The Empress Dowager clung onto the assassin, allowing her guards to swarm in and y him with their swords. But the Empress Dowager was fatally wounded, and seven guards perished. Xiao Yunzhou felt a chill through his body, his eyes filled with pain. His mother... And seven others, all lost because of an assassin... Xiao Chuchu, nestled in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, also furrowed her tiny brow. She quite liked the Empress Dowager, her grandmother. The money from the auction of jewelry and paintingsst time, the Empress Dowager had given her mother her share. Despite their few meetings, the Empress Dowager was really good to the Liu Family. The Empress Dowager was one of the few people in the harem that Xiao Chuchu had no ill feelings toward. And the Emperor''s personal guards, who were often teased by Pang Rusong, would asionally y with her, carried around by Wei Zheng. Xiao Chuchu didn''t want anything to happen to these guards, nor to the Empress Dowager. Sigh. Her brow furrowed in worry, "We can''t startle the snake in the grass now, we need to find a way to deal with the assassin." "But this assassin has been trained as a martyr since childhood, he''s very cunning. Even sleeping drugs have no effect on him." Thinking about the description of this assassin in the novel, Xiao Chuchu felt nervous. "Not only can he recognize poison, but he''s also been specially trained in observing people''s expressions." Xiao Yunzhou''s brow furrowed more and more as he listened. Observing people''s expressions? Then any suspicious action towards the assassin would likely be noticed by him. If they were to encircle and capture him at that time, they might instead be killed by him. If they were unprepared, arge number of guards in the pce would surely be killed or injured. Just as Xiao Yunzhou was worrying, he heard his daughter''s surprised voice. "Huh? The Immortal Realm has given me a task from the Emperor, my father?" What! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. The Immortal Realm had given his Emperor''s trial task to the fairy? Xiao Chuchu''s surprised voice was soon heard clearly by Xiao Yunzhou. "Limited time task: Reform the former dynasty''s martyr assassin, to serve Jing Country!" "Deadline: Before the assassination on the Lantern Festival." "If the task fails, the Emperor will be seriously injured, and the death of the Empress Dowager is irreversible!" Xiao Yunzhou sat stunned on the throne. Chapter 105 Chapter 105 To Transform an Assassin? Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. The Immortal Realm indeed lived up to its name, presenting him, the Emperor, with such a challenging test! Could the resentments and grudges between the previous and current dynasties truly be resolved? Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked down at the cherished daughter Chu Chu cradled in his arms. Seeing the worried look on her tiny face, he couldn''t help but smile. This matter was urgent, yet it was for the adults to worry. No need for his precious daughter to fret. "Someone, tell Consort Liu to... send someone to fetch the little Princess back." Xiao Yunzhou dared not let his beloved daughter face even the slightest risk. Although he did not trust leaving her entirely to others, for now, he, the Emperor, was the one being targeted by the assassin! Unless there were peculiar circumstances, the assassin would not pay heed to a child not yet a year old. "Tell Consort Liu that she need not attend court for the time being, and the little Princess should note to the Imperial Study either." With over twenty days until the Lantern Festival, Xiao Yunzhou nned to keep them away from the assassin''s sight until this matter was resolved. Xiao Yunzhou had the little Princess taken away and strictly forbade Consort Liu, the little Princess, and the Fifth Prince from appearing before him. There were no secrets in the harem, and within an hour, this news had spread throughout. "Consort Liu fell from favor after conferring titles on herdies-in-waiting? How amusing!" "I''ve always said that harem women should not meddle in politics. What our ancestors left behind cannot be wrong. The Emperor found her a novelty at first, but soon realized Consort Liu''s impropriety!" "One rises, all rise; one falls, all fall. Now the Emperor no longer sees Consort Liu or the little Princess, and even the Fifth Prince will lose favor." The pcedies gossiped endlessly behind closed doors, with many secretly rejoicing. The Consort Li, who had been so enraged by Consort Liu''s actions that she could not eat, and the Empress Tong, who had been burning with the desire to remonstrate, now rejoiced in having restrained themselves. "Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager was right. These harem women rise and fall in an instant, but none can surpass you." The Empress''s attendants could not help but smile all day. "You need only sit and watch, doing nothing, and you will never lose." The Empress Tong nodded and smiled, "Tell the Crown Prince to be more diligent in his studies." Seizing the opportunity, she would outshine the Fifth Prince! A prince or consort who had lost the Emperor''s favor had no future in the pce. * In the Donghua Pce. Consort Min was making a new batch of down coats. She selected dried duck down, stuffing it into the fabric as she sewed the edges. To prevent the down from shifting inside the garment, they would sew ''grid-likepartments'' onto the coats - a technique devised by Consort Liu. "The Emperor is so fickle. One new fancy every day, but at least he hasn''t summoned you alltely." "I miss our dear Chu Chu so much when he monopolizes her every day." Consort Min wished the Emperor would just go away, leaving them in peace. Consort Liu could onlyugh wryly. Consort Min had grown thinner and darker recently from the strenuous work on the down coats. [Damn, Auntie Consort Min has abat power of 81! A formidable woman warrior. Could she teach me in the future?] Xiao Chuchu felt Consort Min''sbat attribute when she was scooped up and smothered with kisses. The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian and Sixth Prince Cheng Shan, who had just entered, witnessed Consort Min''s overly affectionate embrace of Xiao Chuchu. "Mother, Chu Chu feels disgusted, look at her wiping her face with her tiny hands," Cheng Shan said, unable to watch his mother''s domineering behavior. He had recently grown taller thanks to the sheep''s milk and eggs, his growth spurt beginning. [No, no, I''m not disgusted. I''m trying to absorb Auntie Consort Min''sbat power!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes shone with admiration as she gazed at Consort Min. [If I had 81bat power when I grew up, I wouldn''t have to fear scumbags anymore.] As a modern woman, Xiao Chuchu had no interest in embroidery but longed for thebat prowess to strengthen her body and protect herself. Especially after the recent assassination attempt, improving her survival skills consumed her thoughts. While the Sixth Prince Cheng Shan could not hear her inner voice, he saw her bright, grape-like eyes and could not resist poking her chubby cheeks. "Fifth Brother, your sister is so adorable. Look, she has dimples when I poke her." [Wow, does the Sixth Prince Cheng Shan inherit Consort Min''sbat attribute?] Xiao Chuchu was startled when the Sixth Prince touched her. [Not even ten years old, yet hisbat power is 71 with a five-star growth rate! With proper nutrition and martial arts training, he could reach over 90 after adulthood!] Good heavens. Xiao Chuchu gazed at the still baby-faced and innocent Sixth Prince, awestruck. [He''s a future master!] [In just ten years, the Sixth Prince might even be able to battle that tea-serving eunuch with 99bat power!] What? The expressions of Consort Liu and the Fifth Prince Cheng Qian froze. That tea-serving eunuch had such highbat power? Was he a master bodyguard specially assigned by the Emperor to protect him? That scrawny little fellow? Xiao Chuchu could not hear their thoughts or answer their unspoken questions, still lost in her own musings. [My mother''sbat power is less than 50, so I''ll probably be a waste. s, I must start doing radio calisthenics early to improve my physical fitness!] Xiao Chuchu pondered. Her thoughts only further perplexed Consort Liu and Cheng Qian. The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian then approached the Sixth Prince, who was trying to hold Xiao Chuchu, and shoved him aside to take his sister into his own arms. "I''ll hold her." His younger brother''s roughness might cause him to drop his sister, which would be disastrous. Moreover, if his sixth brother''sbat power could reach 90, then his own potential was no less. His sister should admire him, her brother, instead! When she grew up, he would personally teach her horse riding and archery. The Fifth Prince Cheng Qian thought with some displeasure, but soon froze. As he cradled Xiao Chuchu in his arms, her rosy face contorted strangely. [Oh my, my own brother, yet yourbat power is only 59!] Cheng Qian: "..." Consort Liu: "..." [s, it seems the Liu family''s attributes are all concentrated in our wits.] Xiao Chuchu shook her head with a tsk. [How disappointing! The novels described my brother Cheng Qian as an aplished individual, both schrly and martial. Was the author mistaken about what it means to be well-versed in both civil and martial arts?!] [My brother''s currentbat power is 59, with only a two-and-a-half-star growth rate. Despite being older than the Sixth Prince, hisbat power at adulthood would be fortunate to reach 70.] ["It''s no wonder my brotherter died on the battlefield. It seems my brother was all talk and no action."] Cheng Qian fell silent. He held his sister''s arm as if it weighed a thousand pounds! His horsemanship and archery skills were not bad, and he had also studied military strategy well, it was just... wrestling on the training grounds and fighting with the pce guards, he always lost. But he felt that being a strategist would not be a problem for him. ["s, my brother''s core strength iscking. It''s over, he must have inherited the Emperor Father''s feeble waist."] Cheng Qian: "..." Concubine Liu: "..." Xiao Chuchu noticed that others did not examine so carefully, since it would cost points to redeem the specific six-dimensional martial arts data. But for her own brother, Xiao Chuchu was very concerned about the reason behind his poor martial arts abilities. Without hesitation, she spent 50 points to redeem the data, and as soon as she saw it, she blinked. ["My brother''s arm force application is incorrect, his core strength iscking, and the training ground instructors'' guidance is unsuitable for him, resulting in his slow growth."] ["His lower body and legs are still decent, but his agility is insufficient."] ["His endurance is eptable, but his explosive power is poor."] ["Tsk."] Cheng Qian was immediately on high alert and hurriedly took detailed notes. He still had time, he could still improve! ["s, my brother''s stature probably won''t be very tall in the future."] ["The training ground instructors follow a fierce path, which is unsuitable for my brother."] ["My brother is actually quite simr in build to that tea-serving eunuch before the Emperor, who looks skinny..."] ["But no, it''s too dangerous for him to be like that wretched fellow with a martial arts score of 99."] Cheng Qian''s eyes flickered. As Xiao Chuchu thought of that eunuch, her thoughts instantly turned to the Lantern Festival tragedy. ["I wonder if the Emperor Father is capable or not."] She grew worried, ["Is there any way to redeem that tea-serving eunuch''s weaknesses?"] Cheng Qian and Concubine Liu were stunned, immediately pricking up their ears and stopping what they were doing. Chapter 106 Chapter 106 Xiao Chuchu attempted to exchange for the weaknesses of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch in the system. She was unsure whether this person was the assassin in the novel. However, her current memory was quite certain that the novel never mentioned this assassin''s weakness. Had it not been for the Lantern Festival that day, the Empress Dowager closest to Xiao Yunzhou would have disregarded her own life, with the guards advancing and retreating in an orderly manner, risking their lives. Xiao Yunzhou would have been doomed. "Weakness of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch: ???" "The host has not yet unlocked the skill to view weaknesses." "Requires 100 points to exchange." So expensive! Xiao Chuchu gasped in her swaddling clothes. 100 points can be used for a lottery draw, possibly winning a skill book. But there were priorities. This wasn''t the time to cherish points. Exchange it! Xiao Chuchu clenched her fists. In an instant, the system gave feedback. "Weakness One of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch: Fear of blood." "?" Xiao Chuchu was stunned. An assassin, who was afraid of blood. Well, so he might not have used all his strength on the day of the assassination. Seeing blood, he was frightened, and his strength would decrease? "Weakness Two of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch: Fear of hunger." "...Weakness Three: Fear of cold." "Weaknesses are ranked from the most to least significant." Xiao Chuchu''s tender little face was all wrinkled up. Was this all the information for 100 points? That''s too much. Could she ask the system to verify his identity? Just as Xiao Chuchu thought of this, she was rejected by the system. "The system currently has no information on this matter avable for exchange." Xiao Chuchu instantly pouted. But the continuous exchange of information and checking of the three people''sbat power values drained her energy. She was surrounded by fatigue instantly. Her little head drooped bit by bit, and she couldn''t keep her eyelids open. "I''ll sleep first, there are still more than twenty days until the Lantern Festival, I''ll think about it tomorrow~" Was there anything special about the Lantern Festival? Concubine Liu and Fifth Prince Cheng Qian werepletely puzzled. But the weaknesses of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch, the little princess''s inner thoughts were crystal clear to them. After dinner, Concubine Liu and Cheng Qian bid farewell to Consort Min and the Sixth Prince and returned to their pce. "Cheng Qian, it''s best if you don''t get too close to the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch your sister mentioned," Concubine Liu said. Concubine Liu hadn''t heard Xiao Chuchu''s evaluation of the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch. But Chuchu had a habit. If it''s a good person worth getting to know, she would certainly be excited and shout. For example, the former Imperial Guard Pang Rusong, and again the wet nurse, Zhang Jia. "We don''t understand the situation right now, but this person is hiding his real ability near your father, hiding his identity. He must not be simple, we can''t get too close." Concubine Liu advised her son to stay away and didn''t n to interact with this junior eunuch too much either. If he was the expert arranged by Xiao Yunzhou, and Xiao Yunzhou didn''t say, they naturally wouldn''t be convenient to get to know him. If not, then the problem was even bigger. Cheng Qian nodded, "I understand." The two spoke a little and then talked about Xiao Yunzhou asking them to visit the Imperial Study less often. "At this timest year, the border was not peaceful, and the Chu State cavalry was ready to move." Cheng Qian thought, "I estimate that this year, the cab will discuss measures in advance." Concubine Liu nodded, she thought the same. There was another reason, which she didn''t say. That night, when the Duke of Dingguo''s daughter implied that Xiao Yunzhou had a ''bad back'', Xiao Yunzhou was probably too embarrassed to face her. Let him calm down for a couple of days. "By the way, Cheng Qian, don''t rush your martial training, prioritize your health." In an instant, Cheng Qian''s face turned red. "I understand, father." Today he truly experienced the ''social death'' his sister often spoke about. Not only did his sister know, but even his dear mother knew about his weak martial prowess, which was far less than his sixth younger brother. Being a young man who values his pride, Cheng Qian couldn''t sit still at Concubine Liu''s ce anymore. After a while, he got up with a red face and returned to Qianxi No.5 Residence. "Let''s go to the training ground." Just before reaching Qianxi No.5 Residence, Cheng Qian was still feeling uneasy and couldn''t help but detour to the training ground where he practiced during the day. The eunuchs who were with him were puzzled. "Your Highness, it''s sote, there''s nobody at the training ground." "Yes, I''m going for some extra practice." The eunuchs were taken aback. Cheng Qian gritted his teeth, entered the empty training ground, and started practicing horse stance. His sister said that his sixth younger brother had a five-star growth rate, while his was only two and a half stars. That meant for every hour of practice his sixth brother did, he needed to practice twice as long to make the same progress. Then he''d just train more! Cheng Qian didn''t want to lose. He used to be ignorant, but now he knew that his country was on the verge of copse, and he was a potential heir to the throne... He couldn''t waste his youth. He should hold himself to higher standards. Cheng Qian wanted to give it his all. "Your Highness, it''s sote... If you want to practice, I''ll wake you up half an hour earlier tomorrow, it''s too dark to see clearly now." The young eunuch, Xiao Luzi, tried to persuade him. But Cheng Qian shook his head firmly. "Today is today, and tomorrow is tomorrow. I have to finish my quota for today." Even if it took ten years, any improvement in his martial prowess was worth it. "What if one day I have to go to battle, do you think the enemy will wait for me to train in the morning? Xiao Luzi, if you have nothing to do, train with me. We''ll go to the battlefield together in the future." "... " Xiao Luzi immediately closed his mouth. Seeing him like this, Cheng Qian couldn''t help butugh and cry. If he became the new emperor, Xiao Luzi would be in Wei Zheng''s position, the head steward. Look at this useless fellow. If he were to be an emperor, he wouldn''t let Xiao Luzi be like Wei Zheng, only good at bootlicking! "Xiao Luzi, you train with me." Cheng Qian demanded on the spot. Xiao Luzi wanted to cry but had no tears. Why did the prince suddenly drag him into this? He wasn''t a study buddy! Seeing him waffling, Cheng Qian immediately grew irritated and began lecturing him. "If you want to stay by my side, don''t learn to tter andpliment." "You need to learn some real skills. Think about it, if you earn ten taels a month, that''s equivalent to the annual ie of a poor peasant. What gives you the right to earn that?" Cheng Qian didn''t say it out loud, but he didn''t really approve of his father''s fondness for Wei Zheng, a eunuch who didn''t have much to offer. Wei Zheng didn''t have enough ability, so how could he be the head eunuch? What good could he do? Cheng Qian was different now. After being enlightened by his beloved sister, he knew about the impending national crisis. His perspective was much higher than that of an ordinary prince. "Ten taels? Are you pulling my leg, Prince? I''m just a junior eunuch and I get only one tael a month...how can it be as much as ten taels!" Xiao Luzi couldn''t even fathom it, "That would be almost as much as Chief Eunuch Wei!" Cheng Qian was bbergasted, he really couldn''t see eye to eye with Xiao Luzi, "And why do you think you deserve one tael? Just because you serve me day in and day out?" "Themon people toil in the fields every day, their backs nearly broken, and they might not even earn one tael a month." Xiao Luzi pulled a long face. Outside the training ground, the moonlight poured down, casting a glow on a slender, weak figure passing by. If Xiao Chuchu and Xiao Yunzhou were present, they would be extremely nervous. The silent figure who passed the training ground and then paused was none other than the junior eunuch who had an outstanding martial prowess of 99! He was hiding in the shadows at this moment, making no sound, even his breathing was nearly inaudible. Although he was at least twenty steps away from Cheng Qian, every word Cheng Qian spoke clearly entered his ears! "The tea-serving junior eunuch in the Emperor''s study, who looks even younger than you, doesn''t earn as much as you do by my side." Cheng Qian couldn''t help butpare. Theparison left him speechless. The other had a martial prowess of 99, andpared to him, Xiao Luzi had no special skills. "That one, is way better than you..." Cheng Qian almost let it slip, and abruptly stopped. Following Xiao Luzi''s puzzled gaze, Cheng Qian quickly changed the subject with a cough, "Last time I went to the imperial study, I saw him practicing how to serve tea without spilling a single drop." The shadow lurking in the moonlight shuddered slightly. Cheng Qian and Xiao Luzi didn''t notice. "He earns even less than you." Cheng Qian thought of what his sister had said about the tea-serving junior eunuch''s weakness¡ª he was afraid of hunger. Looking at Xiao Luzi in front of him, Cheng Qian wished he could point at Xiao Luzi''s forehead, "He probably often goes hungry without even a snack. He''s a pitiful soul indeed." The lurking shadow under the moonlight clenched his fist behind his back. "The tea-serving junior eunuch has suffered a lot, but he is ambitious andpetent. Xiao Luzi, look at yourself, how do youpare?" "You should learn from those who strive, not from those who only know how to tter!" "When I work for the people in the future, if you are useful, you can continue to receive your sry. But if not, I can''t use the hard-earned money of the people to support you, Xiao Luzi." The shadow lurking in the moonlight lingered for a long time before slowly leaving. * "Roar, Emperor Dad, what have you done! Last night, youpleted one-tenth of the enlightenment mission!" Early in the morning, Xiao Chuchu was held by Concubine Liu in the imperial garden. Seeing Emperor Xiao Yunzhou from a distance, she yelled with excitement in her heart! Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded from afar. Huh? "Emperor Dad, what good deed did you dost night? Keep it up." Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. What did he dost night? He was so scared that he couldn''t sleep! He only dozed off around midnight, and even had a nightmare about the junior eunuch trying to assassinate pleted one-tenth already? Keep...it up...okay? Chapter 107 Chapter 107 Xiao Yunzhou, fearing that assassins might harm his precious Chu Chu, had no intention of getting close to them in the Imperial Garden. Yet, Chu Chu''s heart voice from five or six steps away left himpletely baffled. ["Not bad, keep it up."] Chu Chu was so tiredst night that she was worried about assassination but couldn''t resist falling asleep. When she woke up this morning, she still felt a bit guilty. But to her surprise, she saw the progress of the system''s task early in the morning, which made her both surprised and curious. ["Who would''ve thought, the Emperor, without uttering a word, aplished such a great task."] ["It seems that I don''t have to worry too much. Oh, I wonder if the Imperial Kitchen hase up with a new vor of instant noodles today. Old jar pickled cabbage, could there be one..."] Chu Chu, with her grape-like eyes, looked at Xiao Yunzhou, feeling that the Emperor was reliable now, and immediately transferred her worries to food and drink. Xiao Yunzhou opened his mouth, but he couldn''t say a word for a long time. It wasn''t until everyone kneeled to him that he waved his hand for Concubine Liu to take the child to y on her own, and then he took a detour to the Hall of Humble Administration for the morning court. Even on the court, Xiao Yunzhou was somewhat absent-minded. He couldn''t figure out how that assassin had been influenced by him by one-tenth. "What did I do yesterday?" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but ask Wei Zheng. "You, from the evening meal, tell me everything, without omission, that I did." "?" Wei Zheng was stunned. The Emperor had indeed changed! Would the Emperor ask such questions before? Doesn''t the Emperor know what he himself has done? Moreover, there is a daily record, which records every word and deed of the Emperor. Normally, he shouldn''t ask him about these daily matters. Wei Zheng became alert in secret. Now, the Emperor might not be satisfied with him...? Wei Zheng immediately tightened his tail, not daring to be as frivolous and dismissive as usual. "Last night, Your Majesty didn''t have a good appetite at dinner and only used half a bowl of rice. He drank some mutton soup and then asked to remove the dinner table." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes twitched. Last night at dinner, the eunuch serving tea was not present, but his martial arts were high. Could he have been watching him, the Emperor, eating from the beam? He, the Emperor, couldn''t eat, and that former dynasty assassin was happy? Happy, and influenced sessfully!? Xiao Yunzhou opened his mouth and then closed it again. "Later, you started to review the memorials, until 11pm." "The oilmp was changed once." Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. He didn''t sleep, so the assassin... was he happy? Influenced sessfully? Xiao Yunzhou''s face stiffened. What''s wrong with this assassin? "Your Majesty was really too diligent yesterday. If you do this every day, your body will definitely not be able to handle it." Wei Zheng showed a ''worried and heartbroken'' expression at the right time. "Rest a bit earlier today." Xiao Yunzhou sighed, he was not diligentst night, he was afraid, too afraid to sleep. He lit themp to read the memorials, at least there was light in the hall. If the assassin came in, he would be able to see clearly. Otherwise, what if the assassin stabbed him to death in bed, he wouldn''t even know! Xiao Yunzhou propped up his forehead, "Summon the Imperial Cab and the Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries." "Starting from today, I will not turn off the lights. I will workte into the night until 11pm. They should arrange shifts, find people to apany me in rotation." "......" Wei Zheng was shocked. The Imperial Cab and the six departments, upon receiving the news, were almost ready to kneel before the Emperor. What''s going on? The Emperor suddenly started working overtime and governing diligently? "My officials, I will let you sleep, do not worry." Xiao Yunzhou realized that the assassins hated him, the Emperor of Jing Country, not just a little bit. The more he couldn''t eat, couldn''t sleep, tossed and turned, the happier the assassins would be, and the more likely they would be influenced by him, the Emperor. So, as his daughter said, he had to maintain. Find the ministers, the ministers are safe. After all, the hatred of the assassins of the former dynasty was all on their Xiao royal family! Xiao Yunzhou was afraid that he would fall asleep while reviewing the memorials alone, so he had to find someone to apany him. He barely sleptst night, and he didn''t know how long he could stay awake tonight. Thinking about this, Xiao Yunzhou spoke heavily, looking at Chen Xun, Minister of the Ministry of Works, and Shen Mian of the Imperial Cab, the two ministers who were apanying him on duty tonight and supervising him not to sleep. "Tonight, if I doze off before 11pm, you must wake me." "I will get up and continue reviewing the memorials." "......" "?" Chen Xun, Minister of the Ministry of Works, and Shen Mian of the Imperial Cab, were stunned. In the past, the Emperor had been cultivating Tao for nearly five years, and no matter how they advised him, he would not listen. Actually, they didn''t really believe that the Emperor, who had recently started to change and govern diligently, could persist for a long time. Xiao Yunzhou had been pursuing his hobby of Taoist cultivation for five years. Could he change now? Perhaps at some point, the Emperor would revert to his old ways. But who would have thought that Xiao Yunzhou not only didn''t revert, but also studied harder! "Don''t hesitate to wake me up. Treat me as your colleague and scold me." "......!" Really? Both Chen Xun of the Ministry of Works and Shen Mian, the second assistant, doubted their lives. That night, as expected, Xiao Yunzhou only ate less than half a bowl of rice. Just as he put down his rice bowl, he saw Wei Zheng, the teacup boy with a handsome face and a timid demeanor,ing over to add tea to him. Xiao Yunzhou was not full, but when he saw this boy with 99 martial arts skills, he didn''t dare to take a second bite! Xiao Yunzhou was stiff all over, but he had to pretend that nothing was wrong. He could only cough lightly, "Wei Zheng, take the dining table away." The tea boy nced at Xiao Yunzhou''s dining table, which was covered with seven or eight tes of untouched food. Xiao Yunzhou was so nervous that he couldn''t even lift his hand. He waited until the teacup boy with 99 martial arts skills left, then Xiao Yunzhou, dripping with sweat, called to Wei Zheng, "Bring the memorial, I want to review." "I won''t sleep before 11pm!" He spoke loudly, making sure that the tea boy who hadn''t gone far outside could hear him. But after a night, Xiao Yunzhou woke up on the dragon bed in the early morning, and was shocked when he saw the bright daylight, "Why did I fall asleep? When did I fall asleep!" "Uh, your Majesty, you were too tired the day before yesterday, and you fell asleep very heavily before 11pm yesterday." "Master Shen called you twice, Master Chen called you once, but they couldn''t wake you up......" "!" For breakfast, Xiao Yunzhou was so worried that he couldn''t eat anything except a bowl of millet porridge. Whatever was brought up, was taken down the same way. The tea boy looked at the dining table being taken down, untouched, his deep eyes looked at Xiao Yunzhou. It just sank. "Roar, what''s happening?" "The influence level has dropped back to 5%!" "The progress of the mission has regressed, it''s fallen a lot..." In the early morning, Xiao Yunzhou went to court. On the way, he passed by the Imperial Garden and met Chu Chu who was checking the system notifications. With each breath, Xiao Yunzhou''s face stiffened. Before going to court that day, Xiao Yunzhou cast a heavy nce at a few veteran ministers and the Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries. This assassin wouldn''t let him sleep! "If you can''t wake me up at night, you all must have heard of the story of studying by hanging from a beam and pricking the thigh." "?" "I want to imitate the ancients, you must wake me up even if you have to prick me, until 11 pm." "!!" Has the Emperor really changed? They had read history books, but they had never seen an emperor who was so hard on himself! The Imperial Cab and the Six Ministries looked at each other. Meanwhile, Cheng Qian, who had finished his breakfast and was going from the Qianxi No.5 Residence to the training ground to practice archery, was teaching little Xiao Luzi while squatting in horse stance. "Today you will study literature with me, I will test your recitation." "If you can''t recite, you will be punished with a hundred rounds of archery starting tomorrow." "If you can recite, you will be rewarded with a bowl of chicken soup instant noodles that the kitchen has just developed." Cheng Qian was determined to change Xiao Luzi, and himself! As he said this, he didn''t notice the thin figure crouched on a beam in the shadowy corner of the training ground, looking down. The thin figure, hearing ''study literature together'', ''recite and get a bowl of noodles''... his eyes lit up on the beam, but soon dimmed again. "Ding, the influence task has increased to 15%!" Xiao Chuchu woke up from her nap and took a breath when she saw the system message. "What''s happening, it has increased by more than a tenth all of a sudden?" "Damn, what has Emperor Dad done again?" Missing his daughter and unable to resisting over to catch a distant glimpse of her, Xiao Yunzhou stopped outside Concubine Liu''s room and was surprised. What? It has increased again? Xiao Yunzhou''s face changed. He had asked the ministers to wake him up at night before the morning court, to study by hanging from a beam and pricking the thigh, was this assassin so happy about it? Chapter 108 Chapter 108 In the practice field, Cheng Qian squatted in a horseback archery stance while listening to Xiao Luzi recite from a book. He asionally corrected him, "A gentleman does not crave fullness in eating nor settledfort in dwelling, but is quick to act and cautious in speech." "A gentleman has no excessive demands for food and drink, as long as he is full..." Cheng Qian taught Xiao Luzi sentence by sentence. He did not want Xiao Luzi to be a second Wei Zheng in the future. Wei Zheng had no ill intentions, butcked sufficient learning to correct the ws and mistakes of the Imperial Father. Cheng Qian hoped that Xiao Luzi could be his assistant. Moreover, when his Younger Sister, the precious Chu Chu, grew older, he would personally teach her to read as her brother. Xiao Luzi was just being used for practice first. "If you don''t understand something, just ask me anytime, don''t be too shy to speak out," Cheng Qian said to Xiao Luzi. "Do you know how to write the word ''prudent''?" Afterpleting half a session of horseback archery, Cheng Qian took a knife and drew theplex character on the ground to show Xiao Luzi. "Remember it. Prudent, cautious in speech and action. If one''s words and deeds are rash, one will pay the price. Whether it''s the imperial family ormon people, one must think thrice before acting." Xiao Luzi looked miserable, but he had no choice but to learn. "Today, you''ll copy it three times, and I''ll test you tomorrow." Xiao Luzi was struck by a bolt from the blue. But as he followed Cheng Qian away from the practice field, he did not know that someone was enviously watching him. Only when they were out of sight did the spying figure jump down from the beam and stand in front of the character ''prudent''. "Think thrice... before acting..." "Prudent..." The figure''s lips moved, producing a hoarse sound to repeat the words. Squatting in front of the ''prudent'' character, this agile figure clumsily traced it with the right hand three times before reluctantly leaving. "Your Highness, will you wake up half an hour earlier tomorrow too?" Xiao Luzi asked tentatively. Cheng Qian nodded, "Yes." "But the Emperor said the princes should get enough sleep for better health..." Cheng Qian paused. "If the children in themon households of Jing Country cannot grow up safely, intelligent and healthy, with national peace and prosperity, then what''s the use of me growing tall?" The figure following behind them froze. Cheng Qian frowned. He knew that his Younger Sister was said to be as lovely as a celestial maiden reincarnated, and what she said about the benefits of sufficient sleep for health was probably true. If he were an ordinary child from amoner''s family, he should naturally follow that principle. But if he were to ascend to that position one day, a single word from him would affect all themon people under heaven. How could he be negligent? If he did not work hard today, he might wrongly trust the ministers'' advice tomorrow, fail to discern right from wrong, and make mistaken policy decisions. If there were no generals capable of leading troops into battle at that time, then the imperial n would be thest line of defense for themon people of Jing Country! Cheng Qian clenched his fists. "Xiao Luzi, I don''t want that when tragic events happen to themon people in the future, I want to rescue them butck the ability to do so. Do you understand?" After saying this, Cheng Qian saw Xiao Luzi''s bewildered expression and was struck by a sense of despair! Fortunately, his precious Younger Sister Chu Chu was intelligent. If she were like Xiao Luzi, that would truly be... like casting pearls before swine. Forget it, since Xiao Luzi did not know his Younger Sister''s premonitions about theing tragedy, he would just slowly teach him. Cheng Qian took a deep breath, stabilized his emotions, and soon patted Xiao Luzi''s shoulder. "You studied well this morning, and I won''t go back on my word. At noon, the chicken soup noodles Mother prepared for me, I''ll share half with you." Xiao Luzi immediately beamed, "Thank you, Your Highness..." As he spoke, he looked surprised and felt the back of his neck. Cheng Qian raised an eyebrow, "What is it?" "Nothing, I just felt like someone was watching me just now." Xiao Luzi looked around but didn''t see anything, so he happily dismissed it. Soon, he followed Cheng Qian back to Qianxi No. 5 Residence in high spirits. At noon, Xiao Luzi looked reverently as the Fifth Prince shared half of hisrge bowl of noodles with him. "Amazing, Fifth Prince! Just adding hot water makes it instantly edible. The Imperial Kitchen is incredible." Cheng Qian smiled faintly. Everyone said it was the Imperial Kitchen''s invention after the Imperial Father''s guidance. But he knew it was his Younger Sister''s idea. "Go ahead and eat." The hot water quickly softened the dry noodle bricks, and a small square solid chicken broth cube, wrapped in oiled paper, Cheng Qian also broke in half and tossed into Xiao Luzi''s small bowl. "Cover it for a while with a te." Yesterday, his Younger Sister told Mother that she preferred soft, well-soaked noodles over the crunchy texture of half-cooked ones. Cheng Qian thought she made sense, so he taught Xiao Luzi the same. "Okay, I''ll clean the courtyard ande back to eat!" Xiao Luzi carefully carried the bowl of noodles the Prince shared with him back to the servant''s quarters. He didn''t forget to boast to the Sixth Prince''s attending eunuch who shared the room, "My Prince rewarded me with this, the newest dish from the Imperial Kitchen. They say it will be directly supplied to the border troops in the future!" The Sixth Prince''s attending eunuch heard this and drooled, "How nice, Brother Lu, I''m so envious. The Grand General''s rations, and you get to eat them too." Xiao Luzi puffed out his chest, "Heh heh, it''s because I''m a good student! If you study diligently like me every day, your Prince might reward you too." "Alright, I''m going to eat soon, so don''t steal my noodles!" "I wouldn''t dare," the Sixth Prince''s honest attendant waved his hands. Xiao Luzi nodded and left. But in just a short while, before Cheng Qian had finished his own lunch, he heard a wailing from the servant''s quarters. "Ow¡ª Where are my noodles?" "Ah¡ª The noodles the Fifth Prince rewarded me are gone! Who''s the little thief?" "Damn it, who would steal even noodles?" Cheng Qian was taken aback. And at the corner of the dried well in Qianxi No. 5 Residence, an agile figure clutching a bowl darted past at lightning speed. Only after jumping onto a beam did this figure tentatively lower its head and bring the half-bowl of noodle soup to its mouth. In an instant, this nimble figure froze on the beam. ... [Huh, the progress of the Enlightenment Mission has increased by another 1.5%!] When Xiao Chuchu woke up from her afternoon nap and saw the update, she grimaced. Concubine Liu, who was doing needlework, pricked up her ears in bewilderment and soon tucked the corners of the small rocking bed for her daughter. "My Lady, I''ve heard a strange story," the pce maid Qiu Li entered and looked at Concubine Liu mysteriously. "What is it?" Qiu Li immediately lowered her voice and leaned closer to Concubine Liu. "I just went to the kitchen and heard that the Emperor..." "After the noon meal, the Emperor nearly fell asleep, but soon ordered Lord Fucha of the Imperial Cab to tie his hair to a suspended beam, and Lord Jiang of the Ministry of Revenue to prick him with needles." "!" Concubine Liu was shocked and forgot her actions. Not long after, she heard her daughter''s astonished and startled inner voice. [Ah? Is this how the Imperial Father reforms assassins?] [Oh my, do assassins have such strange tastes?] With a tter, Concubine Liu couldn''t hold the cup steady, and it fell to the ground. Chapter 109 Chapter 109 "How infuriating, Master! I don''t know which damned..." Xiao Luzi was so angry that he cried while reporting, "You only got a pack of instant noodles, and there''s none left..." Wail. Xiao Luzi was truly heartbroken. "That instant noodles, even the Sixth Prince couldn''t eat it. It was only because of Concubine Liu''s idea to use preserved meat that the Imperial Kitchen made roast duck, which they specially prepared to serve you and Concubine Liu." Instant noodles were a rare delicacy in the pce now! Xiao Yunzhou decreed that the Internal Affairs Department and the Imperial Kitchen should work together to urgently produce a batch of instant noodles to first supply to the West Mountain Camp. Even the Empress couldn''t eat them at will; the West Mountain Camp''s supply came first. "It''s fine, there will be opportunities in the future," Cheng Qianforted him. "If you and I roam the battlefields in the future, you will definitely get to eat them." The wind rustled the leaves. On the crossbeam of the Qianxi No.5 Residence, a pair of eyes hidden in the darkness flickered. "Find the seal I carved yesterday. After dinner tonight, I want to give it to my sister." After finishing the instant noodles, Cheng Qian missed his adorable Chu Chu even more. But this brother still had to go study in the study room. Only by making progress could he provide his sister with a better life in the future. "Let''s go. The tutor will be angry if we''rete." Cheng Qian got up, asking Xiao Luzi to check that his clothes were neat and tidy, then had him carry his books and follow him to the study room. To get from the Qianxi No.5 Residence to the study room, they had to go through a winding stone path lined with bamboo on both sides. Cheng Qian and Xiao Luzi hurried along, but halfway through, they heard amotion. "You little waste, you made the Head Supervisor Wei angry!" "You bumped into the Little Princess and got Head Supervisor Wei scolded!" "If you''re smart, go apologize to Head Supervisor Wei yourself! Say you''re not feeling well!" Bumped into the Little Princess and Wei Zheng? Cheng Qian frowned and stopped in his tracks. He hadn''t heard his mother mention this incident. His sister had been collided with? Cheng Qian immediately left Xiao Luzi behind and headed towards the grove. As he got closer, his brow furrowed and his expression darkened. He saw five or six tall and burly eunuchs surrounding a rather thin and frail one, not only beating and kicking him, but also pressing his head into the pond. His head was almost entirely submerged in the icy cold water of winter, his entire neck soaked. Arge part of his cotton robe was drenched. But the frail eunuch struggled violently, trying to escape, only to be held down by the tall and burly group of eunuchs. It seemed that his struggle was getting weaker and weaker. "Stop!" Cheng Qian intervened without much thought, scolding the people who were about to drown the man to death! In the bitter cold of winter, being submerged in freezing water. Even if not drowned, the man would freeze to death! "How dare you cause trouble in the pce!" Cheng Qian frowned. The few tall eunuchs, upon hearing his voice, felt uneasy. They turned around and, seeing Cheng Qian''s prince robes, immediately paled and knelt down. "This servant greets the prince! This servant did not mean it." The few tall eunuchs knelt down. The frail eunuch who had been held head-first in the icy pond water finally got a chance to breathe, coughing and gasping for air as he fell to the ground. He was almostpletely soaked, shivering from the cold. "Prince, this disrespectful servant bumped into the Third Princess a couple of days ago. We were merely disciplining him to make him realize his mistake." Cheng Qian frowned. Collided with his sister? But he hadn''t heard his sister mention this incident. If she had been hurt, his mother and wet nurse would have surely told him. And his sister''s heart-mind didn''t mention it either. "For an incident from two days ago, if you knew the circumstances, you should have reported it to the Head Supervisor Wei, informed the Emperor or the Empress, or had someonee and tell me! We would then have summoned the pce physician to examine if the Third Princess was injured." Cheng Qian frowned at these arrogant and insolent tall eunuchs. "There are proper channels to determine the truth. If he truly made a mistake, the Pce Justice Department will decide his crime and punishment," Cheng Qian said sternly. "How dare you take matters into your own hands and mete out private punishment?" His sister was a reincarnated celestial being, carrying blessings and divine aura. If someone truly bullied his sister, he, as her elder brother, would never let it go and would investigate thoroughly. But if someone used his celestial-like sister as an excuse to oppress, insult, or even kill or maim others, causing his sister to bear the karmic consequences, he would never allow it. He would never let his celestial-like sister be an excuse for others'' power struggles. "Xiao Luzi, find out their names and where they are stationed." "Ask what they witnessed and heard. Write everything down for me. I''m not going to the study room today." Cheng Qian was enraged. After saying that, Cheng Qian turned and called over a guard in the distance, "Go and tell my mother to summon the pce physician to examine if the Third Princess has been injured or harmed in any way." Cheng Qian was worried. But as he turned around, he saw four or five eunuchs looking dazed. They looked at each other, then kowtowed on the ground, "Fifth Prince... the Third Princess is fine... The Emperor knew about this... He had the pce physician examine her right away, she was just slightly bumped." "Not a scratch." "This servant... this servant was just... dissatisfied with Little Jiu in general..." Cheng Qian could no longer restrain himself. He kicked a stone by the path, sending it flying and hitting the leading tall eunuch who had been holding the man down. "You''re simply outrageous!" Cheng Qian raged. "For your own selfish interests, you dare use the few-month-old Little Princess as an excuse!" His celestial-like sister was pure and innocent, kind-hearted. If she knew someone had died or been injured because of her, she would be devastated. "Take them to the Pce Justice Department and say they offended me!" Cheng Qian said sternly. The four or five tall eunuchs were terrified. And the frail, fair-skinned eunuch by the river, whose robes were almostpletely soaked, his face already pale from the cold, opened his tightly closed eyes in shock. Cheng Qian turned and took off his own light down jacket. This was the one Consort Min insisted on making for him to wear, saying it was his mother''s invention and she made it herself, so he had to wear it. This down jacket was the warmest for withstanding the cold and would be sent to the West Mountain Camp along with the instant noodles. Yet Cheng Qian didn''t hesitate and, without disdaining the soaked frail eunuch, draped it over him. "Are you all right?" Cheng Qian asked, squatting down and putting the hand warmer from his arms into the hands of the eunuch whose face had turned pale from the cold. "What''s your name and where are you stationed?" he squatted down. This frail eunuch didn''t know if he was startled by the warmth of the hand warmer or by Cheng Qian suddenly squatting down in front of him, but his whole body froze. Afterward, his pale, slender fingers slowly grasped the warm brazier. After a long silence, when Cheng Qian thought he had frozen stiff and was about to call someone to carry him back to the room, he finally heard the hoarse voice of the little eunuch. "I... servant''s name is Little Jiu. I serve tea before the Emperor." "!" Cheng Qian''s usually mature and handsome features froze. What? Serving what? Serving tea before the Emperor? Cheng Qian looked down and only then did he recognize the pale, delicate face as resembling one of the eunuchs who served tea before his father. Cheng Qian was shaken. This was the "ultimate fighter" with a martial arts level of 99 that his sister had mentioned?! Cheng Qian was astonished. Someone with a martial arts level of 99 could be pinned down in the pool? Had his sister never been wrong before? Or had he misheard her...? But for some inexplicable reason, Cheng Qian suddenly recalled what his sister had said. ¡ª The tea-serving eunuch''s weaknesses: fear of cold and hunger. Cheng Qian looked at the shivering figure and found himself asking inexplicably, "Are you hungry now?" Jiu Xiao couldn''t help but look up at this young prince, bathed in sunlight. For the first time... For the first time, someone cared whether he was hungry or not. For the first time, someone cared whether he was cold or not. Giving him their own clothes, giving him their own hand warmer. And this was the imperial pce of Jing Nation, and he was a prince of Jing Nation. One of the most esteemed people in Jing Nation! "Why..." Jiu Xiao couldn''t help but open his mouth, "Why... I''m just a servant." Compared to him, Jiu Xiao was but a speck of dust. * [Ding, Transformation Progress 30%.] Xiao Chuchu drank some milk, and before the overwhelming drowsiness set in, she directly wrote a lengthy passage. [Oh man. That''s rocket speed...] Chapter 110 Chapter 110 Jiu Xiao looked up at the Fifth Prince, finding him bathed in radiant sunlight, his face notably amicable, and glowing. Jiu Xiao was momentarily stunned. He had seen the Fifth Prince many times. While serving in the imperial study, he had seen the Fifth Prince pay his respects and converse with Xiao Yunzhou several times. Previously, Jiu Xiao didn''t pay much attention to the princes of Jing Country. Because they were beyond the scope of his task. This time entering the pce, his only mission, a one-way mission, was to assassinate the emperor of Jing Country, Xiao Yunzhou. The Elder of the Earth and Moon Sect, who had raised him, told him to act on the Lantern Festival. Because the imperial family of the previous dynasty was overthrown by the Xiao family who stormed the pce on the Lantern Festival. So, the day chosen for revenge was the Lantern Festival. The Earth and Moon Sect had never expected him to return alive. Jiu Xiao himself had not thought of returning alive. He was an orphan to start with andpleting this task would be enough to repay the grace of the Elder who had raised him. But for the first time, Jiu Xiao was somewhat greedy for the warmth of the stove in his hands. "Why?" The Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, squatting in front of him, looking into his eyes, "Why save you?" "I simply acted ording to the rules of the pce, you need not overthink." Nonsense! Jiu Xiao''s eyes flickered as he watched the Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian, rise. The rules of the pce, just like the Elder of the Earth and Moon Sect had said, were that the superior prey on the inferior. How could the rules of the pce be like the Fifth Prince? Not only saving him but also giving him his winter clothes? Jiu Xiao frowned slightly, he had recently heard the Fifth Prince teaching the young eunuchs around him. Could this be what the Fifth Prince had taught before, ''watch their behavior, observe their good and evil'' - judging a person''s good and evil based on their actions? "Thank you, Fifth Prince, for saving me." Jiu Xiao''s face reddened slightly. "No need. I was just passing by." Nonsense. Jiu Xiao shook his head inwardly, looking at the Fifth Prince who refused to admit his good deeds, slowly standing up, his body that had been soaked in icy water for too long couldn''t help but shake. Cheng Qian watched him with a furrowed brow, "Xiao Luzi, give him some of the dried meat you carry with you, and your hand stove too." "Here, take it, go back to your room and change your clothes quickly! Don''t catch a cold!" Xiao Luzi tossed him a bag of dried meat. Jiu Xiao caught it in a sh, as if he had caught a hot potato. Dried meat... In the Earth and Moon Sect, he had never eaten such dried meat, nor had he ever eaten anything like instant noodles soaked in boiling water. The Earth and Moon Sect had saved them, the orphans, but had been strict with them since childhood, punishing them with beatings if they didn''t train hard enough. Only if they won a fight would they get a piece of meat. Many orphans like him had died from injuries sustained in fights. "I didn''t do anything right, can I still eat?" Jiu Xiao couldn''t help but look at Cheng Qian and speak for the second time. Cheng Qian was taken aback. Xiao Luzi, however, responded quickly, "Hey, our prince has a kind heart and can''t bear to see you freeze to death, so he gave you something to eat. This isn''t a reward, what does it have to do with whether you did something right or wrong?" "Master, the master of the imperial study is about to arrive, let''s hurry up and go!" Xiao Luzi urged. Jiu Xiao remained in ce, watching Cheng Qian turn and leave. You can eat meat even if you don''t do anything right? Because they can''t bear to see him die? Why, the Fifth Prince doesn''t even know him. Jiu Xiao was at a loss. He had never thought about these things before. He did whatever the Elder of the Earth and Moon Sect, who had adopted him, said. For this assassination, the Elder of Earth and Moon Sect promised Jiu Xiao that, if sessful, they would establish a longevity memorial for him and burn paper money for him so that he wouldn''t starve in the underworld. ''Judge by their motives, observe their deeds''... Compared to the Fifth Prince, the Elder of Earth and Moon Sect was quite willing to let him die... How cruel indeed. Jiu Xiao frowned, quickly turning around to return to his eunuch''s room. But just a quarter of an hourter, someone brought hot water. "Little Jiu, this is sent by Eunuch Wei." Jiu Xiao was taken aback. It was a lie, it wasn''t Eunuch Wei. It must be the Fifth Prince, the good Samaritan who didn''t want to leave his name... Jiu Xiao stared nkly at the bucket of scalding water for washing his feet. * [Ding, reformation progress 30%.] [Ding, reformation progress 40%.] ... [Ding, reformation progress 70%.] Holy moly! Xiao Chuchu was stunned, what speed is this? She didn''t even have time to exchange for a live broadcast. Without even uttering a prayer in her heart for the system to exchange a real-time broadcast of the assassin''s actions, the task''s reformation progress was like a rocket, shooting straight up! [That''s incredible.] [Aw, I can''t exchange for a live broadcast because it''s task-rted?] Xiao Chuchu applied to watch the broadcast but was rejected by the system, instantly her face crumpled in frustration. Concubine Liu, listening in on the side, also became worried. Was her daughter facing trouble? s, she could not help. What to do now? "Qiu Li, after you finish ss in the study room, go find Cheng Qian, ask him toe over today." Concubine Liu wanted to discuss with her son. What exactly does this reformation task mean? She could not bear to see her little daughter frowning all day, not even enjoying her milk, always seeming sleepy yet stubbornly holding her eyes open. Concubine Liu felt distressed. Just as she was pondering, a guard reported from outside, "Concubine Liu, the Fifth Prince asked me to ry a message, suggesting you invite an imperial physician for the young princess, to check if she is injured and whether her health is fine." Concubine Liu jolted! [What?] Xiao Chuchu heard it too. [What''s wrong with me? I''m perfectly fine.] Upon hearing her daughter''s thoughts, Concubine Liu sighed in relief. But she still dared not let down her guard. After all, the child was still young, and though she was precocious, she slept for a long time each day. What if something happened while she was asleep? Not all of the young princess''s thoughts could guarantee safety. "Qiu Li, go find Imperial Physician Qiu, who is proficient in paediatrics, and let him take a ''peace pulse'' for the young princess." Concubine Liu dared not gamble. When it came to the young princess, Qiu Li knew the importance and hurried off immediately. * The Imperial Study. Xiao Yunzhou was so tired he felt like he was dying, but he had to endure and continue reviewing petitions. "I can''t go on, I''m too tired. Chancellor Fu Cha, do you have any way to wake me up?" Chancellor Fu Cha: "This..." "When I was the crown prince, I often fell asleep during lectures. At that time, Chancellor Fu Cha would tell me stories to keep me awake." Xiao Yunzhou lifted his eyes, shadowed with fatigue, "Now, Chancellor Fu Cha, you''ve changed." "..." Chancellor Fu Cha opened his mouth. "You''re not as loyal to me as before, not like the old times, when you saw me tired, you would tell me stories to keep me focused!" "......!" Damn it! Chancellor Fu Cha''s corner of the mouth twitched. The Emperor seems to be regressing with age, acting as if he were five and a half years old! Chancellor Fu Cha is in a dilemma, unsure whether to tell the Emperor a story or not. Just then, Wei Zheng hurriedly arrives with a report. "Your Majesty, something''s wrong! The Third Princess has called for the royal physician!" Upon hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou instantly wakes up from his drowsy state, standing up in urgency. Without waiting for Chancellor Fu Cha, he rushes out. "What''s the matter? She was perfectly fine a few days ago... It couldn''t be the work of an assassin, could it?" Xiao Yunzhou breaks out in a cold sweat from fear, not even waiting for Wei Zheng, and hurries towards Concubine Liu. Upon arriving at the Donghua Pce''s side hall, just as he steadies himself against the wall to catch his breath, he hears his daughter''s anxious thoughts echoing like thunder. "Ouch, the royal physician says my spleen and stomach are unbnced, I really haven''t been able to drink milk these past few days." "Sigh, I''m just worried about the assassin!" Hearing his daughter''s thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou lowers his head in shame. It''s all because he, as a father and Emperor, is useless, causing his few months old child to worry. But the next sentence leaves Xiao Yunzhou dumbstruck. "Oh, but my appetite is back now. This persuasion task is already seventy percentplete, haha!" Xiao Yunzhou: "?!?" What? Seventy percent? What... What did he do? Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze shiftsplexly towards Wei Zheng. "What, what was I just doing?" Wei Zheng: "¡­" Goodness, when will the Emperor''s forgetfulness get better? "You were just having Chancellor Fu Cha tell a story." "¡­" Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze wavers. Chapter 111 Chapter 111 Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded, utterly dumbfounded. Most of the time, when he discussed matters of state with his ministers, apart from his confidant Wei Zheng, the pce maids and eunuchs who served tea would be dismissed. The guards would remain outside the imperial study, not allowing anyone to enter, lest someone eavesdrop. In other words, for the past two days, the eunuch Wu Li 99 who served tea was rarely near the emperor. But Wu Li 99... his inability to see him did not mean the other was not there. With such high martial arts prowess, he could be on the roof beams or hiding deftly in the branches, evading the eyes of all guards. For the past two days, Xiao Yunzhou dared not let his guard down for a moment, acting as if Wu Li 99 was present even when unseen. He even feared angering the other, not daring to order anyone to pay special attention to the eunuch''s movements. But now, hearing that progress had been made on the "subduing" task, Xiao Yunzhou was utterly dumbfounded. How did he manage it? How on earth did he aplish it? Was he perhaps the chosen sovereign destined for greatness, carrying a regal aura that won over the other? Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. He paused outside for a moment, then heard the Imperial Physician Qiu say: "Your Ladyship, rest assured, the Third Princess is well, just a slight stomach upset." The pediatrician Qiu quickly reached his conclusion. "No need for medicine. I will teach Your Ladyship a method of massaging acupressure points for the Third Princess. Do it daily, and she will be fine." [Woo woo, I''m alright, really alright.] Xiao Chuchu was not flustered at all. [I''ve been drinking less milktely, partly because of the "subduing" task, and partly because I''ve been craving instant noodles~] Hearing thetter part from her daughter, Concubine Liuughed despite herself. How could this little girl keep craving adult food when her teeth hadn''t even grown in? But hearing the physician and her daughter''s words, Concubine Liu was reassured. "Thank you for your efforts, Imperial Physician Qiu." Concubine Liu carefully learned the massage techniques and acupressure points. Xiao Yunzhou, standing outside the window, even pricked up his ears to listen intently. After learning, Xiao Yunzhou gestured to Wei Zheng, and they quietly withdrew without disturbing anyone. Back in the imperial study, Xiao Yunzhou looked straight at Chancellor Fu Cha, making thetter uneasy. "Er... Your Majesty is getting on in years... cough... Would you like me to tell you a story...?" Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. The cold wind on the way back had cleared his weary, anxious mind. Why was the assassin being subdued? Probably not for the reason he thought. It was unlikely the other was pleased to see the emperor neither eating nor sleeping. More likely, the other was moved by the emperor''s diligent governance, promising a better era for the suffering people of the previous dynasty? Xiao Yunzhou pondered, it was probably this. He had touched the assassin deeply these past two days. "Hmm, Chancellor Fu Cha, I wish to leave the pce to console the refugees." "?!" Xiao Yunzhou lowered his gaze. There was no point staying in the pce - he wanted the assassin to see the difference between Jing Country and the final years of the previous dynasty! But as soon as he said this, he frowned at Chancellor Fu Cha, "If there is any mishap on this excursion..." "Remember, Chancellor, my edict on the Crown Prince is behind the horizontal inscribed board in the Qianqing Pce." Chancellor Fu Cha was stunned. "In case of any mishap, let the Crown Prince ascend the throne," said Xiao Yunzhou gravely. Although the little princess said the assassin would act on Lantern Festival, What if they changed ns once he left the pce? He had to prepare for the worst. "The Crown Prince''s ascension will require the full support of the cab and ministries. Do not disappoint me, Chancellor Fu Cha." Having said that, Xiao Yunzhou stood up and let out a yawn so wide tears came to his eyes. He was too tired, truly unable to stay awake any longer. Guessing that the "subduing" task may not rely on staying awake day after day, Xiao Yunzhou decided to rest early. "Wei Zheng, have someone escort the Chancellor back." Soon, the emperor''s bedchamber went dark for the first time in two days. In the night, a slender figure slipped out from the pce walls, moving as nimbly as a cat without a sound, not alerting any of the guards at the gate. He paused in the darkness, then swiftly headed towards the Qianqing Pce! In no time, he scaled the pirs of the main hall silently. Lifting the inscribed board, he took out the edict hidden behind it. After reading it, the slender figure froze. ¡ª"I hereby pass the throne to the Fifth Prince, Cheng Qian." The slender figure stared at the edict for a long while before folding it up and recing it. [Hm, "subduing" task progress 75%? Another increase?] Xiao Chuchu, being massaged by Concubine Liu, had her older brother Cheng Qian crouched before her with concern. Xiao Chuchu opened her mouth. "Today, I saw a few senior eunuchs bullying that little eunuch Wu Li 99 who serves tea before the emperor. They said my sister was hurt, so I got worried and asked Mother to call a physician to check on her." Cheng Qian exined the details to Concubine Liu. "Later, Xiaolu went to ask Wei Zheng, and even the Head Imperial Physician was present. They examined my sister''s hand on the spot - it was just brushed, not injured at all." "But I thought it best to have a physician examine my sister..." Midway, Cheng Qian''s attention was diverted by Chuchu''s inner voice. [Ah, my brother encountered the eunuch who serves tea before the emperor?] [Wow, he was actually bullied?] Xiao Chuchu felt the other was a fine actor. [If he''s not on the Oscars list, I''m not watching.] What are Os...cars? Cheng Qian almost forgot what he wanted to say. "Mother, did you hear that Father ns to leave the pce to console the refugees in two days?" Cheng Qian finally recalled. [Oh my, does the emperor want to subdue him this way?] Xiao Chuchu''s voice interrupted Cheng Qian again. Concubine Liu and Cheng Qian exchanged nces. Just who was the emperor trying to subdue? Xiao Chuchu, massaged by Concubine Liu on her acupoints, soon fell asleep, content. Seeing her asleep, Cheng Qian spoke up. "Father has been summoning the cab and ministrieste at night to discuss state affairs." Concubine Liu thought of the Marquis of Ding Guo the other day and pondered, "Perhaps he is trying to subdue those officials loyal to the previous emperor." This topic could not be discussed further. Mother and son looked at each other, stopping there, saying no more. But after leaving his mother''s pce, Cheng Qian felt envious. Why didn''t the immortal realm give him missions? Why only give them to the father emperor? Cheng Qian was extremely envious. In the servants'' quarters, Jiu Xiao tossed and turned until the midnight hour. Only after pinching the sleep points of his roommates did he secretly get up and examine the dried meat hidden under his pillow. He had not brought himself to eat a single piece. Careful and hesitant, Jiu Xiao looked around for a moment before reluctantly changing into night attire and slipping out of the pce quietly. She arrived at the meeting ce arranged by the Earth and Moon Sect. "I''ve heard that the Emperor of Jing Country will be leaving the pce soon?" asked the disguised Elder in a hushed voice. "Yes." "Hmph, if it weren''t for our desire to take revenge on the Lantern Festival, this would be the perfect time for him to die outside the pce." Jiu Xiao''s face was covered in a ck veil, but her eyes remained impassive. "On the Lantern Festival, you must be patient and get close to the Emperor without alerting too many guards. Sess is the only option, failure is not permitted!" "Yes," Jiu Xiao answered briefly. But just as the Elder was about to leave, Jiu Xiao couldn''t help but look up, her eyes flickering as she spoke, "After I... assassinate the Emperor of Jing Country..." "Then the Prince of Jing Country... will ascend the throne?" The Elder gave her a puzzled look, "How strange, you never cared about such things before." Jiu Xiao lowered her head. Yes. Before, it didn''t matter. But now... if it''s the kind Fifth Prince who has been so good to her, bing the new Emperor, Jiu Xiao felt she could get rid of Xiao Yunzhou sooner! She could make her move before the Lantern Festival! The thought made Jiu Xiao''s heart stir. In fact, when serving Xiao Yunzhou tea today, she almost couldn''t hold back. How she wished she could serve the Fifth Prince tea instead! If only Xiao Yunzhou could die... "The Prince of Jing Country ascending the throne?" The Elder chuckled, thinking Jiu Xiao was concerned about their rebellion against Jing Country. "Rest assured, once Xiao Yunzhou dies, it won''t be long before our people send his son to join him in the underworld!" "The empire belongs to our imperial family!" "The Xiao n must be eliminated!" Jiu Xiao suddenly looked up at the Elder. Chapter 112 Chapter 112 "The Earth and Moon Sect will allow themon people to live a good life. Jiu Xiao, you became an orphan because of the Jing Country''s misdeeds. All of this suffering, your suffering, will soone to an end." The elder began re-indoctrinating the young man before him. "Jiu Xiao, your death will not be in vain. Once the great cause of the Earth and Moon Sect is aplished, we will build you a tomb with a memorial arch and burn offerings and roast chicken for you every day." The elder spoke. Jiu Xiao frowned slightly in difort, his fists clenching gradually behind his back. [Ding, indoctrination progress increased to 80%!] [Ding, indoctrination progress decreased to 75%!] ... [Ding, indoctrination progress increased to 81%!] [Ding, indoctrination progress decreased to 76%!] ... [Ding, indoctrination progress increased to 80%!] Xiao Chuchu was woken up in the middle of the night by the system''s noise, leaving her bewildered. What''s going on, the assassin is fluctuating? Is he conflicted? * "Ahem, we''ll depart in an hour." The next day, in the imperial study. As Xiao Yunzhou prepared to leave the pce, he stiffened when he saw the emaciated Xiao Luzi bringing in a tea cup. "On this journey, we will visit the relief hall at Blue Stone Bridge outside the capital tofort the elderly and children refugees," Xiao Yunzhou said to Wei Zheng. Wei Zheng: "...?" What does that mean? Why is the emperor repeating the destination to him again? Didn''t he just mention it? Wei Zheng was increasingly confused by Xiao Yunzhou''s behavior and nervously said, "This servant has remembered." Xiao Yunzhou nodded. He was afraid the eunuch Xiao Luzi serving tea didn''t hear, so he moved the note with the departure location and time written on it closer to the tea cup. He didn''t dare look directly at the eunuch Xiao Luzi, but soon felt a chill down his neck. Hm? Killing intent!? Xiao Yunzhou was startled, his right arm about to pick up the tea cup going numb. Wait, didn''t Qiu Li say the assassin''s indoctrination level was already at seventy percent? Previously, when this Xiao Luzi approached him, he didn''t sense anything unusual. But now, as Xiao Yunzhou looked up, he saw the tea''s ripples reflecting Xiao Luzi''s delicate yet tightly pursed, murderous lips! Xiao Yunzhou''s hand trembled! Is... is this indoctrination task from the immortal realm going smoothly? Are you sure the indoctrination level has seeded by that much? How is this person still wanting to kill him? With that urge to act! Xiao Yunzhou held himself back, barely avoiding fleeing. "Your Majesty, shall you change clothes now?" Wei Zheng asked obliviously. Only then did Xiao Yunzhou feel the murderous aura receding like the ebbing tide. The emaciated Xiao Luzi took a step back, hunching his shoulders in his usual humble, meek manner as he stood in the corner of the study room. It was as if the killing intent Xiao Yunzhou had sensed was an illusion that never existed. Xiao Yunzhou gulped. "Your Majesty, in addition to this servant, there will be two senior officials and ten guards for secret protection on this trip. Do you need anyone else?" Xiao Yunzhou: "..." He froze. Last night, he was convinced that by diligently governing and improving the people''s lives, he could indoctrinate the assassin. He was certain, as the reincarnated immortal princess Qiu Li had said, that the assassin would not make a move before the Lantern Festival. But just now, he clearly sensed killing intent! This Xiao Luzi serving him tea is confirmed to be the former court assassin with a martial power of 99! "Your Majesty?" Wei Zheng called out cautiously again. Xiao Yunzhou flinched. Last night he had nned to bring Xiao Luzi and another eunuch with him to witness the proper resettlement of the refugees, but now... he, the emperor, was a bit afraid to do so. Damn it. He cultivated immortality not to seek longevity, but because he was truly afraid of death and didn''t want to die. At this point, Xiao Yunzhou regretted not taking another look at the reincarnated immortal princess Qiu Li and hugging her again. And about what she had mentioned before, the ''Irrigation Laws'' - he hadn''t heard her detailed exnation or recorded it to pass on to the cab and ministries. s. Xiao Yunzhou regretted wasting so much time in the past years. How had he squandered those years? "Wei Zheng, help me up." "??? Your Majesty, what''s wrong?" "...My legs are numb," he was too scared to stand up! Xiao Yunzhou''s face was ashen, with sweat gradually beading on his forehead. This was the first time he had sensed such tangible killing intent around him. "Ah, Your Majesty, do you need to call the imperial physician?" Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth, ncing sideways at the eunuch Xiao Luzi in the corner. He had sensed the killing intent from him, estimating that the assassination may not wait until the Lantern Festival! "No, Wei Zheng, help me up. I can still go see the refugees." Jiu Xiao, standing in the corner, raised his head upon hearing this, giving Xiao Yunzhou a swift nce. His gaze held a strange, indescribable emotion, but he quickly lowered his head again, standing meekly with hunched shoulders. * [Oh no, the emperor is going to see the refugees today, but he didn''t bring the tea-serving eunuch?] [Won''t the indoctrination task stagnate then?] Xiao Chuchu was in Consort Min''s embrace, watching her prepare the noon meal in the Chonghua Pce. "With the emperor and Wei Zheng away, and us having finished the down coats, we can rx a bit today," Consort Min said to Liu Chaniang as she eagerly eyed the kitchen staff bringing in racks of pork spare ribs. Ever since collecting the duck down, Consort Min''s rtionship with the kitchen supervisors had greatly improved. She was the first to know about any new ingredients the kitchen acquired. "Chaniang, you know the empress'' father Lord Tong has started raising pigs, right? He sent the first batch of premium pigs into the pce yesterday, so we can have a taste today." [Ooh, streaky pork, braised pork belly, pork loin~] Xiao Chuchu''s mind immediately wandered, unable to resist drooling. [Pork loin skewers are really tender and fragrant, and the streaky pork cut into small pieces and threaded onto bamboo skewers, grilled until the fatty parts are crispy golden and the lean parts are chewy but not dry or tough~] [Oh, and some garlic skewers to grill too, you can eat them directly or wrap them with the streaky pork in a clean lettuce leaf, the mix of savory, sweet, and crisp textures is simply perfect~!] Xiao Chuchu imagined it and ended up drooling over herself. "..." Liu Chaniang smiled wryly and used a handkerchief to wipe the corner of the child''s mouth. "By the way, has the imperial decree conferring your title as a consort been issued yet?" Consort Min asked after rewarding the kitchen staff who brought in the pork and returning. Liu Chaniang had also nearly forgotten and only recalled when asked, "They said to wait for the Imperial Astronomical Bureau to select an auspicious date for the ceremony." "Indeed, the Emperor relies on this the most for cultivating his way," Consort Minughed. "Lady Chan, you''re going to eat pork. How would you like it prepared - as meatballs or in a pork soup with noodles?" [Woof woof woof lettuce wraps with roasted pork belly ~ Long live barbecue! ~] Just as Liu Chan was about to respond, her daughter''s excited voice interrupted her, forcing her to change course. "Sister Min, why don''t we try something new today?" "Huh?" "Last time at the Emperor''s, I had skewers. Why don''t we have the kitchen slice the pork thinly and thread it onto skewers today?" Liu Chan looked at her daughter''s increasingly bright eyes and pondered, "Recently, all expenses in the pce have been reduced, so we shouldn''t be too wasteful with oil." "Let''s skip frying them. We can grill them instead, slicing the meat thinly with alternating lean and fat parts. We can use the pork''s own fat and add some fresh vegetables." "It''s not easy formoners to eat pork, so we in the pce should also be frugal. Let''s not just eat meat, but add fresh vegetables to eat with the meat." As Liu Chan said this, Xiao Chuchu and Consort Min''s eyes grew brighter and brighter. "Lady Chan, you are truly kind-hearted and thoughtful! That sounds delicious." [Woof, my mother actually came up with this way of eating, heavens!] As Xiao Chuchu danced and gesticted, Cheng Qian, who had been busy since the Emperor left the pce, also found time toe with Xiao Luzi. [Woof woof, big brother is here, quick big brother grill me some meat ~] Upon hearing this, Cheng Qian froze momentarily. Then heughed, "Xiao Luzi, bring me some water to wash my hands. Today, I''ll do the grilling, no one else needs to move." Xiao Luzi hastened toply. Meanwhile, in the shadows, an agile figure slipped unnoticed onto a beam of the Chonghua Pce and became transfixed upon hearing those words. Throughout the grilling process, this shadowy figure kept its head lowered, watching Cheng Qian''s movements intently as he grilled the meat himself. "Prince, allow me," someone offered. "No need, I''ll do it today," Cheng Qian replied, delivering some perfectly grilled skewers to Liu Chan and Consort Min''s tes. Some less attractive but still edible skewers, Cheng Qian handed to Xiao Luzi to distribute among the pce maids and eunuchs of Chonghua Pce, including Qiu Li. The shadowy figure on the beam never left, its gaze repeatedly lingering on the skewers Xiao Luzi received. [Ding! Transformation Percentage: 85%!] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth opened wide in an "ah" of astonishment. Chapter 113 Chapter 113 **Ding! Persuasion level at 85%!** Xiao Chuchu watched everyone eat barbecue, as if she could taste it herself. But the sudden alert left her somewhat bewildered. Just now, Consort Min mentioned that the Emperor took Wei Zheng out of the pce, along with a few ministers. There weren''t many guards apanying them either. She had assumed that Xiao Yunzhou didn''t take the little tea-serving eunuch to see theforting of the refugees. Xiao Chuchu didn''t think too much about it, until she was startled by Consort Min''s exmation. "It''s so good..." Consort Min put a dumpling into her mouth, cheeks bulging out. She took a bite and eximed. "Woo, woo, woo... Call Cheng Shan over, let Cheng Qian rest a while, and have Cheng Shan grill for everyone." Concubine Liuughed upon hearing this. Cheng Qian''s lips curved up in a smile. Ever since Xiao Yunzhou heard Chuchu''s heartfelt words about developing intelligence through doing things oneself, he began to encourage the princes to take matters into their own hands for simple daily tasks. If it were the past, Cheng Qian wouldn''t even know how to barbecue. But now, after the princes had spent some time learning in the kitchen, though not adept, they had at least managed not to ruin the food. Cheng Qian was also happy to oblige his sister''s words. If he could do it himself, he didn''t need to bother Xiao Luzi. Especially when it came to grilling meat for his mother and sister, Cheng Qian was more than willing. "Sixth Brother, you eat first. I''ve already dirtied my hands, might as well finish the job." Cheng Qian didn''t mind, the more he grilled, the more skilled he became. At first, he couldn''t control the heat or time. But after grilling tens of skewers, he no longer charred the meat. With a skewer in each hand, he could leisurely turn them on the grill, with only asional nces. Concubine Liu and Consort Min were eating slowly, and the grilled meat would not taste good when it got cold. Cheng Qian didn''t have such a sense of hierarchy, calling Xiao Luzi to distribute it to Qiu Li and other maids and eunuchs who usually took care of his mother and sister. "Fifth Prince, the ve will do it herself." "Yeah, you eat it yourself." "We''ll take the ones you''ve ruined, you keep the good ones." The maids and eunuchs, including Qiu Li, were almost kneeling to Cheng Qian. How could a noble prince serve them instead? But Cheng Qian waved them off. His little sister, so young, could care about themon people''s pork issue. Naturally, as her brother, he could care for the people around him. "I''m just lending a hand once or twice, most of the time, it''s still you guys taking care of Mother and Sister." Cheng Qian didn''t care about these things. He found it quite amazing, probably influenced by his sister. Growing up in the pce, he had always thought he was the master, the prince, deserving of others'' kowtowing. But after his sister was born, hearing her thoughts, it seemed that he gradually realized there was not much difference in status or rank among people. The poor schr on the street had an intelligence of 90. A prince born in the royal family might have an intelligence less than 50. He was served and hisbat power was less than 60. But the little eunuch serving tea to the Emperor might be atent master. It showed that what identity one was born with was sometimes not that important. "Besides, didn''t you guys also lend money to the Jing Country Bank?" Cheng Qian pondered, "The costs of the new batch of pigs'' feeding improvements, a portion of it came from the money you lent to the national treasury." "This is what you deserve too." Cheng Qian finished roasting the batch of meat brought over from the kitchen, wiped his hands, andughed, "That''s all. You''ll have to roast the next yourself." The maidservants like Qiu Li burst intoughter upon hearing this. Why was the Fifth Prince''s speech so pleasing? They were initially a bit reserved, but now they felt less inferior and dared to take the skewers Xiao Luzi handed them. "Thank you, Fifth Prince, we won''t stand on ceremony then!" "We''ll save our monthly sry and deposit it in the bank. Let''s contribute it to our national treasury for pig rearing~" "We''ll take over the roasting of the next batch! Fifth Prince, please clean your hands..." "This is the most delicious thing I''ve ever eaten!" "It''s no wonder it was roasted by the Fifth Prince!" "It''s great, I wish to serve the Empress and the Fifth Prince in Chonghua Pce for the rest of my life..." The atmosphere in the Chonghua Pce''s courtyard heated up in an instant. The gap between master and servant seemed to have narrowed a lot. "Wow, my brother just attracted two loyal followers. Oh my," Xiao Chuchu, who had been eating melon and watching the show as she couldn''t eat the roasted meat, was suddenly alerted by a system prompt. Her little face broke into a wide grin within her swaddling clothes. "Way to go, my dear brother~" "Respect others, and you will receive the same, or even double the respect!" "A ruler who loves his people as if they were his children will receive the same reciprocation from his people!" Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but cheer for her brother. Cheng Qian and Concubine Liu both froze upon hearing this. "My brother''s progress in gaining loyal followers is now on par with Mother and Father Emperor''s." "Wow, just three more and he can increase an attribute." Cheng Qian hadn''t expected this. He''d just helped out once. The pork was actually from Consort Min''s share. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, Cheng Qian looked at Consort Min. He had given away what was hers. But as Cheng Qian was about to put down the towel he was using to wipe his hands and pick up his sister, he was startled by Xiao Chuchu''s exmation. "Holy crap!" Xiao Chuchu widened her sparkling grape-like eyes. "How did the persuasion progress spike to 90%?" "When did this happen? What''s going on?" No sooner had she finished speaking than a howl rang out in the barbecue courtyard. "Ah... damn it! Where are the two skewers of roast pork belly the Prince gave me?" Xiao Luzi''s cries of despair echoed through the heavens and the earth. Cheng Qian was stunned, Xiao Chuchu was taken aback, and both Concubine Liu and Consort Min paused their elegant dining movements. "There''s a thief! Fifth Prince, there''s a thief, he''s back!" Xiao Luzi was truly devastated this time. He was beating his chest and stamping his feet. He was truly heartbroken. Last time, he lost his precious instant noodles, and then they were all sent to the West Mountain Camp. This time, it was the first batch of premium feed pork personally roasted by the Fifth Prince, who had now stopped roasting. "Damn¡ªI just turned around, I just wanted to grab a piece of lettuce to wrap the pork belly!" "It was gone the moment I turned around..." Tears welled up in Xiao Luzi''s eyes. "Why does this damn thief always target me? It''s the second time already. What grudges does he have against me? How have I offended him?" "The second time?" Consort Min, the current mistress of Chonghua Pce and the person who initiated this barbecue, stood up immediately, no longer caring about her food. "Xiao Luzi, were you also robbed in Chonghua Pcest time?" "A thief in our Chonghua Pce?" Consort Min, a woman of courage and wit, immediately scanned the surroundings! However, she frowned at what she saw. All around, the pce maids and eunuchs were enjoying one or two skewers of roast meat given to them by Cheng Qian. Everyone had their share. Why would anyone steal Xiao Luzi''s? "Strange," Consort Min furrowed her brows, "In broad daylight, could there be a ghost?" A vague thought shed in Cheng Qian''s mind, but he couldn''t quite grasp it to ponder further. "Damn it, the persuasion progress is still rising." "It''s at 91% now." "And now 92%..." Cheng Qian''s vague thought was momentarily illuminated, and gradually became absurd. What exactly is this persuasion task his sister mentioned...? Could it be rted to this thief? * A lithe figure crouching on the beam was carefully cing a skewer into his mouth. He gently bit off a piece of juicy roast pork belly. His eyes apologetic, he nced at Xiao Luzi below and stealthily shot the extra skewer he had taken back. Returning to him... just one skewer. But as he finished this action and was about to run away, after hastily chewing the pork belly in his mouth, his eyes... became blurry. He froze on the spot, his legs stiffened. This... what heavenly delight is this? Chapter 114 Chapter 114 Jiu Xiao took a bite and froze, unable to move. The freshly washed vegetable leaves were wrapped around a few slices of fatty and lean pork belly that had been grilled on skewers until the oil was squeezed out. With a crisp snap, he chewed it together with the tender garlic. The burst of vors included the sweetness of the vegetables, the savory saltiness of the meat fat, and the refreshing, mildly pungent aroma of garlic. Jiu Xiao had never known that anything could taste so delicious. Crispy, chewy, tender, and soft - different textures unfolded like a blossoming flower in his mouth. In one bite, he almost forgot that he was supposed to leave. "Who''s there!" Xiao Luzi''s te was jolted by the recoiling pork belly skewer. Consort Min, standing farther away, caught sight of it and frowned up at the rafters. Her angry shout finally alerted the person on the beam. Instantly, a figure in ck clothes, faster than her upward nce, darted away. "Insolent! Where are you going!" Consort Min raged, enraged that there was a thief in the Chonghua Pce! The guards rushed in with a tter. "Consort Min?" "An assassin, no, a thief!" Consort Min fumed, mming the table. But Concubine Liu and Cheng Qian couldn''t help but smirk. Because in the cradle, Chu Chu''s stunned inner voice rushed out at high speed. [Damn! Who is this! Such fast moves!] [Aunt Min didn''t even see them?] [The guards outside heard the shout and rushed in, but this person had already left, without even a trail of dust.] [Sigh, the power gap is too big...] Xiao Chuchu sighed, ever since her system''s ability to watch live broadcasts from anywhere was sealed, she had no way to figure out many things. But she wasn''t stupid, and a little reasoning left her stunned. [Oh my, could this be that Tea-serving Junior Eunuch with a power level of 99?] "Pfft... cough." Cheng Qian, hearing his sister''s inner voice, nearly choked on the pork belly, his face turning red. The junior eunuch he had rescued from being drowned in theke was truly a master? He hadn''t misheard his sister''s inner voice thest time. Then why had that person concealed their abilities and not fought back that day? Was it on the Emperor''s orders? Was this person the Emperor''s secret guard? [Oh, he didn''t actually go out of the pce with Father Emperor to see the refugees, but why did hee to watch us eat grilled meat?] Xiao Chuchu''s grape-like eyes flickered, and she quickly understood. [He was hungry, his weakness is being hungry!] [But why didn''t he steal from someone else, but instead watch Xiao Luzi''s grilled meat beside my brother? Xiao Luzi just said this was the second time the power level 99 junior eunuch stole his food. Was it himst time too?] [Oh, I''m dizzy.] Xiao Chuchu didn''t understand. [Father Emperor isn''t in the pce, but the enlightenment progress can still go up? What does that mean?] Xiao Chuchu felt like she was just a hair''s breadth away from the truth. Her inner voice was rapid and dense, making both Cheng Qian and Concubine Liu a little dizzy. But Cheng Qian''s expression grew stranger the more he listened. The person Father Emperor had been trying hard to enlighten recently was this Tea-serving Junior Eunuch? Huh... really? Then the enlightenment progress... was something Father Emperor was doing...? Cheng Qian''s body stiffened, as he recalled the things he had done for this Tea-serving Junior Eunuch. Rescuing him, giving him clothes, a warm stove, and food jerky. Now the other had eaten his grilled meat, and the instant noodles Xiao Luzi had been robbed of before were also cooked by him personally... Could this enlightenment progress not be Father Emperor''s doing, but his own? Cheng Qian suddenly sat on the stone bench, his heart pounding. But he soon shook his head. Impossible. He must be overthinking it. His sister had said this was a task from the Immortal Realm for Father Emperor! * Outside the pce,forting the refugees, Xiao Yunzhou smiled warmly at every elderly, weak, woman and child in the relief hall. He even personally asked them how they had slept and eaten, until his back ached and he could barely stand up straight, before reluctantly preparing to return to the pce. "Your Majesty has worked hard all day, please rest early upon your return," said the few elders of the Imperial Cab, their backs also bent from exhaustion. Wei Zheng also looked at Xiao Yunzhou with admiration, "Your Majesty''s efforts are appreciated." But Xiao Yunzhou shook his head. His heart was uneasy. He didn''t know what the enlightenment progress was for the day. As the Emperor, he truly felt ashamed at not heeding the Little Princess''s advice. He had been cowardly again today, not daring to summon that Tea-serving Junior Eunuch with a power level of 99 to apany him out of the pce to the relief hall to see the refugee arrangements. He was afraid the other might not control his killing intent and assassinate the Emperor outside the pce. Sigh. Regret. Now that he had spent a day outside the pce in peace, all Xiao Yunzhou felt was regret. Why didn''t he call the assassin toe along? He could have made significant enlightenment progress. But now, this great opportunity was wasted by his own cowardice as the Emperor! "Sigh." Xiao Yunzhou prepared to return to the pce, but his face showed no joy, only worry. "Your Majesty, what troubles you? Could you share it with this old minister?" Of the Imperial Cab and Six Ministries'' ministers, only Liu Wenchang, Concubine Liu''s father who apanied them today, asked Xiao Yunzhou about his sigh. "Ah, it is Duke Liu who shows concern for Us," Xiao Yunzhou said, looking at the slightly graying Liu Wenchang with gratitude. When one is near death, setting aside all imperial grandeur, he finally appreciates the value of those around him. Look, the Imperial Cab''s Prime Minister Fucha and Deputy Prime Minister Shen Mian didn''t care about him. Only Old Duke Liu truly cared for him. No wonder he is Concubine Liu''s father, no wonder he is his Duke! Xiao Yunzhou was touched, "Old Duke, it''s perfect timing, join Us in Our study chamber tonight for a heart-to-heart discussion between ruler and minister." The elders and ministers of the cab and six ministries immediately took a big step back upon hearing this. Not only were they not jealous or resentful, but they looked at Liu Wenchang with sympathy, their eyes filled with the relief of ''finally, it''s your turn to suffer this.'' Liu Wenchang could not refuse Xiao Yunzhou, and was arranged a sedan chair into the pce by Wei Zheng. "Duke Liu, eat a hearty dinner tonight, eh." "That''s right, you still remember the bone-chilling tales, don''t you?" "Duke Liu, when was thest time you told stories to people?" The Imperial Cab and Six Ministries all ''advised'' Liu Wenchang with a chuckle. The Emperor had been too strangetely. Not sleeping himself, but insisting that officials apany him! If he fell asleep, they had to wake the Emperor. What, they couldn''t wake him? No, they had to poke the Emperor with a bamboo pole... If the Emperor was still sleepy, then it was the officials'' fault. They had toe up with a way, tell stories, bone-chilling tales, anything to keep the Emperor awake! Could officials really do this? The Imperial Cab and Senior Ministers had recently suffered greatly. Taking action against the Emperor wasn''t right, but not taking action wasn''t right either. They were in deep trouble. ... Atst, the inhuman suffering has befallen Liu Wenchang, the recently popr imperial concubine''s father. It was high time for Liu Wenchang to taste the bitterness. Several ministers gleefully exchanged nces and bowed to Liu Wenchang, "Liu, take care. We shall return and rest now. Ah, finally I can sleep soundly tonight." Liu Wenchang''s mouth twitched. He had already heard about the Emperor Xiao Yunzhou''s strange affliction during the court session earlier. Not only that, he knew more. The Emperor''s insomnia wasrgely due to his ''Immortal Realm missions''! On odd days, Liu Chan organized pcedies to sew winter clothes outside the pce, and sometimes she would convey the young concubines'' concerns to Liu''s mother. Liu Wenchang had heard about it long ago. These past two days, Xiao Yunzhou had been trying to reform someone. ording to his daughter, it was most likely a senior minister left over from the previous Emperor''s reign. Initially, Liu Wenchang believed it and did not wish to interfere further, but today he felt something was amiss! "Your Majesty, when I saw you serving porridge today, you seemed deeply troubled, sighing constantly, with your brow sweating and your face pale." After entering the imperial study and lighting the nightmp, Liu Wenchang could no longer hold back his question to Xiao Yunzhou. "I am truly concerned, is Your Majesty unwell?" Xiao Yunzhou did not look like he was reforming someone at all, but rather appeared afraid! Liu Wenchang worried that if the Emperor mishandled the situation, it might endanger his daughter, granddaughter, and grandson, so he had to get to the bottom of it! If the Emperor could not handle it, at least he could! "I wish to share Your Majesty''s burden." Xiao Yunzhou was touched and did not know what to say, "s, looking around the entire court of civil and military officials, you are the only one who treats me like a junior and cares for me so dearly, Liu." Liu Wenchang lowered his head guiltily. But Xiao Yunzhou''s next words left him dazed. "Liu, you are one of us, so I shall speak inly." "There is a highly skilled assassin from the previous dynasty in my pce, intent on killing me." "Don''t ask me how I know!" Xiao Yunzhou whispered closely into Liu Wenchang''s ear, lowering his voice lest anyone overhear. Liu Wenchang opened his mouth. Oh. He wouldn''t ask. How did he know? His granddaughter must have told him! "I have made great efforts recently and have ovee most of the threat." "But the assassin still harbors killing intent, and I know not what to do." Liu Wenchang immediately turned serious, "Do you know who it is? Is there any possibility of negotiation?" Negotiation? Xiao Yunzhou stared wide-eyed. Chapter 115 Chapter 115 "Is there a possibility of negotiation?" Liu Wenchang''s words left Xiao Yunzhou astonished. Negotiation? Indeed. In a war between two nations, the messenger is never killed! Negotiation, why hadn''t he thought about it? Wait, won''t the assassin know that he''s been exposed? Liu Wenchang was different today, "Your Majesty, if you can conduct a test every ten days for civil and military officials, why can''t you hold a censored question-and-answer test for the entire harem?" Xiao Yunzhou abruptly lifted his head to look at Liu Wenchang, "Master Liu, are you suggesting, like the Imperial Examination System, that everyone can seal their names? This way, everyone can freely express what they need..." Including the assassin. "Yes. Your Majesty, the other party can read and write, right?" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned, he really didn''t know. Not all eunuchs in the pce had been educated, many of them were illiterate, after all, many only performed cleaning duties. As Xiao Yunzhou was worried, Wei Zheng reported. "Your Majesty, Consort Min''s ce was robbed today." "Thankfully, neither the Consort nor the Princess and Prince were frightened." Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Wenchang were rmed at the same time, how could there be thieves, was it the assassin''s doing? "What''s missing from Donghua Pce?" Xiao Yunzhou hurriedly asked. Wei Zheng remained silent for a moment, "Hmm... a string of roasted pork belly, and a fresh leaf of lettuce." "...?" Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth gaped open. His tension evaporated like foam, looking at Wei Zheng with a gaze that said ''is the thief sick, or are you?'' However, Liu Wenchang quickly understood, "Hmm? Roasted pork belly, fresh lettuce? Is this a new way of eating?" As Liu Wenchang spoke, he couldn''t help but salivate. Without thinking too much, it must be his precious granddaughter''s idea! Just like the roast duck. "To answer Master Liu''s question, this is Concubine Liu trying to imitate the fried skewers that His Majesty invented a while ago." Wei Zheng¡¯s words made Xiao Yunzhou''s face both gratified and rxed, and a little embarrassed. Concubine Liu really thinks about him, the Emperor, all the time! Even though she''s not by his side, even though he''s left the pce, even when she eats something, she wants to imitate him, the Emperor! Ah, Xiao Yunzhou''s self-esteem was greatly satisfied, especially today when the cab ministers ignored him. But Xiao Yunzhou also couldn''t help but blush. Because it wasn¡¯t him, the Emperor whoes with an open mouth for meals, who thought of the fried skewers, it was all the little princess who told him. Fried skewers are a delicacy of the fairy world. Xiao Yunzhou is the supreme ruler, but he knows he''s only the earthly supreme ruler, he must not im the things of the fairy world as his own. "Cough, focus." Xiao Yunzhou stopped Wei Zheng¡¯s digression, "Don''t always tter me, I don''t fall for that." "!" Wei Zheng''s sycophantic expression froze. The Emperor has changed. The Emperor is not so easy to serve now. Wei Zheng could only honestly say, "Concubine Liu wanted to imitate the fried skewers, but thought about how the pce was cooperating with the Ministry of Revenue to save on various expenses, so she said to use less oil this time." "Cut thin slices of pork, with fat and lean meat, without needing too much additional oil, just roast it directly." "Remembering how hard it is for themon people to eat meat, Concubine Liu persuaded Consort Min and others to eat less meat today, add lettuce, and consume it wrapped together with the meat." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes vibrated, "Good!" Upon hearing this, he was truly ted, "I am blessed with such a concubine, why worry about discord in the harem! If all were like this, why worry about instability in Jing Country!" The remnants of the previous dynasty, the assassins from the previous dynasty, should see this! "Wei Zheng, for tonight''s supper, I will also use this vegetable wrap for roasting meat, less oil," said Xiao Yunzhou, increasingly feeling that Concubine Liu was a gift from heaven. Every single thing she did touched his heart. "Liu elder, you have raised a good daughter," Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu Wenchang, his affection extending by association. Look at the previous favored concubine, look at the Empress... it''s obvious that Chancellor Fu Cha, the former Tong Prime Minister, may not be as good as Liu Wenchang in education! The Liu family truly is a household of loyal and capable officials. "I only regret that I discovered your talents toote, Liu elder. Otherwise, I could have educated the Prince earlier..." "Ah, Liu elder, you are the best choice to teach the Prince in the Study Room." Liu Wenchang almost spit out his tea from coughing, his ears burning. It wasn''t him who taught her. It was his granddaughter teaching her daughter. Oh my. "Strengthen the guards in Donghua Pce," finally, Xiao Yunzhou remembered the main issue. But even after saying it, he was still not at ease, "No, in these few days, let them change their sleeping quarters." Upon hearing this, Liu Wenchang also furrowed his brows, "Your Majesty, we must hurry with the assassin matter." Indeed! Xiao Yunzhou was originally hesitating, whether or not to listen to Elder Liu and proactively talk to the assassin. But now... the situation forced him! If this issue is not resolved, with a piece of meat and a vegetable lost in the pce, he, the emperor, feels like he has a fishbone stuck in his throat, always jumping at shadows. "Liu elder, please help me strategize, this negotiation involving the entire harem." Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou remembered the young eunuch who served him tea, who was not even twenty years old. Looking at Liu Wenchang again, his first son was smart, his second daughter virtuous and kind-hearted, very good at educating children. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but say more, "Liu elder, the other party is only a few years older than the Eldest Prince." Liu Wenchang was shocked, the remnants of the previous dynasty actually sent such a young man as an assassin. This is most likely a suicide mission... not intending to let him return. "Your Majesty, the assassin is so young, we have a high possibility of... ahem... persuading him to surrender." Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu elder and suddenly had confidence. * ¡¾Awoo, isn''t this just a survey?¡¿ The next day, when Xiao Chuchu saw Liu Wenchang, he got the permission to visit Concubine Liu and the little princess, who were ''shocked'' by losing a piece of meat and vegetable. Liu Wenchang told Concubine Liu about the secret talkst night. This was also allowed by Xiao Yunzhou, after all, the thief now involved Donghua Pce. But Liu elder''s words shocked Xiao Chuchu, who was still nursing. ¡¾Awoo, how does Emperor Father know there''s an assassin?¡¿ Xiao Chuchu''s grape-sized eyes were wide open. ¡¾He even knows it''s from the previous dynasty, and he knows who the assassin is?¡¿ Liu Wenchang''s mouth corners tightened, barely holding back a smile, isn''t his granddaughter just too adorable? Liu Wenchang lowered his voice, "The Emperor has been feeling the other party''s murderous intent these days. The other party almost can''t suppress the desire to kill him." ¡¾!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu was stunned. Cheng Qian, who came to greet in the morning, also heard and was taken aback. ¡¾That''s impossible, the assassin''s progress in persuasion is already ny percent.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu''s small face scrunched up in confusion, **"Why does he still harbor murderous intent towards the Emperor?"** **"Hasn''t he been almostpletely influenced by the Emperor?"** Cheng Qian looked at his little sister, young in age but already showing signs of beauty, and his heart pounded. An answer that felt absurd to him yesterday, today he couldn''t help but reconsider. **Could it be, the degree of influence wasn''t the work of the Emperor?** **Did he snatch the task from the Emperor?** Cheng Qian''s breathing became messy. Then Liu Wenchang spoke again, "The current negotiations, we adopt a model where all pce maids participate. Those who can read and write will seal their names in writing, those who cannot will answer at the back of the wooden board." "We designed several main questions with the Emperor." "How many months'' allowance do you want?" "Where do you wish to serve in the future?" "What do you desire the most?" These are conditions for negotiating with the assassins, offering personal interests. "What do you think needs to be improved in the Jing Country''s royal family?" "What would you like to say to the Emperor?" These are parts for influencing the assassins. After Liu Wenchang finished speaking, he turned his gaze to Concubine Liu and his grandson Cheng Qian, "Do you have any additions?" With that, his gaze drifted towards his newborn granddaughter. Indeed, before Concubine Liu or Cheng Qian could speak, Xiao Chuchu let out a wail, **"Ahh, isn''t this the modern version of anonymous corporate surveys!?"** **"With a little improvement, it would be the employee satisfaction surveysmon in modernpanies!"** Liu Wenchang, Concubine Liu, and Cheng Qian were all startled and pricked up their ears. **"Not only can you survey employee satisfaction towards their superiors and thepany, but you can also set up a corporateint channel."** **"Regrly collect anonymous employeeints, assign a dedicated person to follow up and handle it, and feedback to the employees about the progress of resolving their dissatisfaction with thepany, colleagues, and superiors."** **"Oh yes, for negative employee emotions, you could set up a psychological counseling group, mainly targeting issues caused by work pressures, wage gaps, and other negative emotions, leading tock of work enthusiasm."** Liu Wenchang, who is currently serving in the Ministry of Personnel, managing civil servant assessments: "!" Cheng Qian, who is studying with his brothers in the Study Room: "!" Concubine Liu, who is currently managing the making of winter clothes: "...!" All three of them were startled. They learned something new! Chapter 116 Chapter 116 Liu Wenchang sat drinking tea beside his daughter, his mind already pondering how to extend the investigation questionnaire for the harem to the officials of the Ministry of Personnel. There were alsoint channels, psychological counseling... Cheng Qian was also restless. Three dayster, even Qiu Li, the pce maid attending to Concubine Liu, received the ''staff questionnaire'' for the harem. Maids and eunuchs, regardless of their duties, had to fill it out. Even the consorts in charge, Concubine Liu and Consort Min, could not be exempted. Crucially, after everyone in the Donghua Pcepleted the forms, Concubine Liu collected them and was astonished upon reviewing them. [Hahaha, those who style hair don''t want to, those who sweep floors don''t want to either, how hrious.] Xiao Chuchuughed raucously in her swaddling clothes. [Indeed, such dull tasks are prone to breed discontent.] [Time for job rotations then!] Concubine Liu raised her eyebrows. Job rotations? [Oh, I''d love to see how the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch with martial skill 99 filled it out. Was he already tired of serving tea and yearning to gallop across the bordends like a general?] Xiao Chuchu was curious, her inner voice active. But Xiao Yunzhou hadn''te to the Donghua Pce for several days, nor had he sent Wei Zheng to bring her over. She could only wonder. But before she could ponder further, Liu Wenchang arrived again with an imperial summons. Liu Wenchang was apanied by eunuchs carrying a stack of ''questionnaires''. Concubine Liu was curious, "Father, is it proper for you to bring these for us to see?" But before she finished, the eunuch beside Liu Wenchang raised his head. This eunuch was none other than Xiao Yunzhou in disguise! Xiao Yunzhou gave Concubine Liu a pained smile, "Don''t make a fuss. I have matters to discuss with Old Liu and you, Madame." Concubine Liu had been conferred the title of Pce Lady, ranking at the ninth grade, with a meager stipend equal to a minor ninth-rank official. Now Xiao Yunzhou called her by her maiden name, not addressing her as Concubine Liu, clearly not out of intimacy, but seeing her as a Pce Lady to consult on official matters! Concubine Liu immediately wore a serious expression and had Qiu Li guard the door. Xiao Yunzhou felt gratified;municating with intelligent people truly was effortless. "You all know about the assassin incident. You are the only ones in the pce who know." Today, Xiao Yunzhou disguised himself and apanied Old Liu, keeping it a secret from the Tea-serving Junior Eunuch. He had even instructed Wei Zheng to warn all the eunuchs serving in his presence. Xiao Yunzhou hadn''t informed the Grand Secretaries about the assassin incident either. "Now, I can only discuss this with you." Perhaps it was the secret inner voice of the little princess that made Xiao Yunzhou feel that this assassin matter, without evidence, could only be discussed with the Liu family, who shared blood ties with the little princess and were utterly loyal. From his daughter''s inner voice, Xiao Yunzhou knew that the Liu family didn''t have absolute loyalty to him. But that was normal. With the presence of the fairy-like little princess, the Liu family should revere her first. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t feel the slightest jealousy. Instead, he was delighted to see the Liu family doting on Chuchu and treasuring her. After all, he, as the earthly emperor, could neverpare to a celestial fairy. How dare a fireflypete with the sun and moon for brilliance! "Look at these questionnaires from the eunuchs serving me." Xiao Yunzhou gestured to Concubine Liu and Old Liu. As they picked up the sheets with identical handwriting, all transcribed neatly, and examined the anonymous responses, they couldn''t help butugh and cry. [Damn, the eunuchs around the Emperor are all tterers. None dared to speak the truth on the anonymous questionnaires!] Xiao Chuchu, held by Xiao Yunzhou, also took a good look. [Oh my, even with the handwriting uniformly transcribed, I can tell that the sycophantic tone of ''the role I most desire is to be the Emperor''s ox and horse for eternity'' is from that tterer Wei Zheng, the chief eunuch!] "Ahem." Xiao Yunzhou blushed. Even his daughter knew Wei Zheng loved ttery? But soon, Xiao Yunzhou turned solemn. Indeed, upon reviewing the anonymous questionnaires, he realized that not a single attendant dared to speak the truth. ¡ªExcept for that assassin! [Hahaha, this person is awesome. What are your grievances against the Emperor? ¡ª "All of them," I''m dying!] Xiao Chuchu saw thest sheet and her inner voice erupted into raucousughter. [Who is this hero?] [The role I most desire ¡ª "To be far away from the Emperor," hahaha!] Xiao Chuchu didn''t know her inner voice could be heard and practicallyughed with special effects. Concubine Liu and Liu Wenchang''s lips tightened momentarily as they gripped their hands tightly. Only then could they suppress theirughter. [Heavens, is this person trying to make meugh to death so they can inherit my overdraft?] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice simply wouldn''t stop. [Wait, could this be the assassin with martial skill 99? How bold and daring!] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched, his face alternating between pale, flushed, and ashen. Indeed, it was that assassin. Who would have thought that the most honest and straightforward person around him was the assassin. Apart from the assassin, everyone else was a tterer who wouldn''t speak the truth. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked gravely at Concubine Liu and Old Liu, "What are your thoughts?" Thoughts? After barely suppressing theirughter, Concubine Liu and Old Liu cleared their throats and put their minds to work. "This person is willing tomunicate with us, Your Majesty. This is excellent news!" said Liu Wenchang. Concubine Liu nodded in agreement. Among the group of tterers telling lies, this assassin stood out like an upright and loyal official. Moreover, she could hear the little princess''s inner voice. Just yesterday, the little princess said the persuasion progress was already at ny percent. After careful consideration, Concubine Liu felt the situation had a significant turning point. "Your Majesty, please also review the questionnaires from my pce maids," said Concubine Liu, handing over the responses from Qiu Li and others. The eunuchs around Xiao Yunzhou feared him and didn''t believe the anonymity was genuine, so they didn''t dare speak the truth. But Qiu Li and the others serving Concubine Liu weren''t so fearful. Especially after the barbeque incident, the work atmosphere in the Donghua Pce had improved, and Qiu Li and the others dared to speak frankly. "Your Majesty, Qiu Li and the others have served me for years, but their questionnaires show they want to try new duties." Xiao Yunzhou raised his eyebrows. Concubine Liu had already thought of the ''job rotations'' mentioned by her daughter earlier. "So, is it possible that the assassin doesn''t actually wish to be an assassin from the start? Perhaps he aspires to do something else." "Why don''t we... have everyone rotate through different duties?" "Reassign the assassin away from Your Majesty?" Xiao Yunzhou widened his eyes. [Woo-hoo, Mother is right! The persuasion progress is already 92%, but the Emperor feels a killing intent, which is unscientific!] [I guess the assassin is struggling! The pacification progress fluctuated back and forth recently, I estimate the assassin is battling with the one who issued the mission, sometimes murderous intent shows, sometimes none.] [If the assassin is removed from being near the Emperor, perhaps due to the difficulty of assassination, he''ll go with the flow and abandon the assassination mission.] Xiao Chuchu made this deduction. Xiao Yunzhou believed it, looking to Concubine Liu for help, "Have the pce eunuchs rotate through different posts?" [Woof woof, that''s job rotation! Let everyone choose the department and position they want most!] [They can''t repeat their previous ones.] Xiao Yunzhou always believed his daughter, immediately pping his thigh, "Your father will listen to you, my dear!" But he issued another survey to the eunuchs and pce maids currently on duty. Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded. "What, you actually want to serve tea in the Study Room where the princes study?" Xiao Yunzhou looked at the survey results and immediately couldn''t help but ask the slim, seemingly harmless Tea-serving Junior Eunuch with abat power of 99. He couldn''t believe it. At the same time, Xiao Chuchu who was about to take an afternoon nap in Donghua Pce couldn''t believe it either. [Assassin pacification progress 90% ¡ú 0%.] [Assassin pacification progress 0% ¡ú 100%.] ... [Assassin pacification progress 100% ¡ú 0%.] [Assassin pacification progress 0% ¡ú 100%.] [Assassin pacification progress 100% ¡ú 0%.] ... Xiao Chuchu was dumbstruck. Is the system malfunctioning, or did the mission crash? The pacification progress is jumping between zero andpletion. One step forward to pacify the assassin, one step back to injury and death. One second in heaven, one second in hell. [What the heck is the Emperor Dad doing?] Chapter 117 Chapter 117 "Dastard, the prince is going to the study, you think this is the street, you can just go wherever you want!" Wei Zheng scolded the tea servant Little Jiu uncontrobly. For a moment, the murderous aura almost shed across Xiao Yunzhou''s neck. Cold sweat oozed out from under Xiao Yunzhou''s robe. "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu seeks an audience, saying that Princess Chuchu has been crying incessantly," the guard outside reported. Xiao Yunzhou immediately stood up. His daughter must have learned something, a decree from the Immortal Realm! "Princess Chuchu has never cried so much since her birth..." Before Concubine Liu was allowed in, she was talking to the Imperial Guards at the door. "Let her in quickly," Xiao Yunzhou said urgently. It''s likely that he, the mortal emperor, is on the verge of annihtion, which is why the reincarnated fairy princess is crying inconsbly. Before he could finish, he heard his daughter''s wailing from outside. A father-daughter bond, indeed. In an instant, Xiao Yunzhou felt as if he heard his daughter''s cries tearing at his heart, each cry causing him pain. And he also instantly read his daughter''s plea for help woven into her wails. [Woo woo, there''s no other way. I can only cry loudly so Mother can bring me to the study!] [Woo, something serious has happened, the assassin''s progress of being converted could be reset to zero in an instant!] [What are you doing, Father Emperor? No, I have to stop it! I have to cry to stop it!] Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded. He looked incredulously at the martial arts master Little Jiu, standing before the imperial desk. Progress of being converted reset to zero? Xiao Yunzhou was bewildered. What just happened? He merely saw Little Jiu''s sincere answer and asked in surprise, which angered him? "You wooden thing, get out! If you upset Princess Chuchu again, not even a hundred deaths could atone for your crime." Xiao Yunzhou looked over and saw Wei Zheng scolding this martial arts master Little Jiu once more. In an instant, Xiao Yunzhou nearly lost his soul. "With your dull demeanor, not knowing how to be flexible, you still want to serve tea in the prince''s study room? I''ve never seen you make progress either!" Wei Zheng scolded fiercely. [Ah, the progress of being converted has dropped to 0 again!] Princess Chuchu eximed in her heart, forgetting her wails. Xiao Yunzhou''s face stiffened, his forehead beaded with sweat, and he mmed the table, "Wei Zheng!" "Insolence! Before I or Concubine Liu could speak, you''re scolding someone here." Wei Zheng opened his mouth. Little Jiu looked over, but his gaze was obscure and unclear. Chuchu whimpered, [The progress of being converted is back to 90%, no, it dropped to 0 again.] [Ah, it''s back to 90%, woo it dropped to 0 again.] [It''s fluctuating back and forth.] "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s face alternated between pale and flushed. No wonder Princess Chuchu cried so heartbreakingly; it was the reincarnated fairy in his daughter''s tender little throat, warning him, the Emperor! He, a mortal emperor, what virtue does he possess for his daughter''s reincarnated fairy form to suffer? "Wei Zheng, you have disappointed me greatly," Xiao Yunzhou said abruptly, finding his train of thought. Even the Immortal Emperors have instituted a rotation system, allowing immortals to rotate through different tasks. Why can''t Jing Country do the same? As the mortal sovereign, he should learn from this. He should recognize the diverse talents and needs of his officials and pce servants. "The pce servant Q&A that I initiated with Concubine Liu aims to give everyone an opportunity." Xiao Yunzhou''s thoughts became clear in his urgency. With a stern face, he educated Wei Zheng. "Wei Zheng, you are one of my people. You should understand my intentions. As long as someone dares to think and is willing to put in effort, I am willing to give them a chance to try." "Go to a new position and try it out for a few days. If it doesn''t work out, return to your original post. If it does, you can continue serving." Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, ncing at the frail Little Jiu. "Everyone is born with many possibilities." "When I was born, I was not the sovereign either." "No one is born to serve tea and water. As long as you have talent and the will to progress, I will give you the opportunity." As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, Wei Zheng was dumbfounded, while Little Jiu raised his head to look at Xiao Yunzhou himself for the first time. [Woo, the progress of being converted has stabilized at 90% again.] Princess Chuchu let out a sigh of relief, with tear streaks still on her cheeks. [That was terrifying. Otherwise, if I harm Father Emperor''s life, he would likely still face the inevitable fate of death within three years. And the Empress Dowager would also be sacrificed, along with innocent guards...] Xiao Yunzhou''s brow rxed, but soon tensed again due to his daughter''s inner voice. It seems that for him, the Emperor, to fight against the predetermined tragic fate, there is still a long way to go. Not a moment can be rxed. "Little Jiu, let me ask you again, do you really want to serve tea in the prince''s study room?" Xiao Yunzhou looked at this hidden assassin. He was also worried that the assassin might harm the prince. "If I suggest you take a different position, you can go anywhere..." But before he could finish ¡ª [Woo, the progress of being converted has dropped to zero again!] Princess Chuchu wailed. "!" "...I promise you! You can go to the study room!" The sweat-drenched Xiao Yunzhou immediately changed course! In the next moment, as he held his breath, he heard Chuchu''s relieved inner voice. [Oh? Ah, wow, the progress of being converted is 100%!] [Congrattions, the mission to convert the assassin isplete!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. [The system says, ''Congrattions, you have gained the assistance of a martial arts master with a level of 99.''] Ah? Xiao Yunzhou was shocked, looking at his daughter Chuchu, who had stopped crying and was being carried in by Concubine Liu to pay respects. He resisted the urge to turn and look at Little Jiu, the assassin who thought he was well-hidden. It''s done? Just like that? Isn''t that too casual? Xiao Yunzhou let out a sigh of relief, but was also bewildered. So, what''s so good about the prince''s study room? [It''s possible that the assassin Jiu Xiao had already been mostly converted by Father Emperor and no longer wanted to kill him.] Whenever she neared a plot point, Princess Chuchu''s memory of the novel became clearer. Once the conversion mission wasplete, her knowledge of the assassin became more vivid. [It turns out the assassin''s real name is Jiu Xiao. In the novel, Jiu Xiao was an orphan taken in by an elder of the Earth and Moon Sect at a young age. While the Sect raised him and taught him the art of killing, they also told him that the reason they raised him was to assassinate the Emperor of Jing Country.] [On one side was Father Emperor trying to convert him, and on the other was the gratitude he owed to the elder who raised him and taught him. The assassin Jiu Xiao was caught in between.] [Unable to reconcile loyalty and filial piety, the only option was to stay away from Father Emperor... to avoid seeing Father Emperor in this life, drawing a line for himself as if he had failed his mission.] Xiao Chuchu analyzed the novel''s plot fiercely like a tiger. She knew the story, and it had to be said, her analysis seemed well-founded. Xiao Yunzhou firmly believed her, and as he looked up at this emaciated tea-serving eunuch Little Jiu, his gaze wavered. So that was how it was. "s, tomorrow, no, today you shall attend to the Crown Prince''s study." "You need not remain by My side anymore." The tea-serving eunuch Little Jiu, the assassin Jiu Xiao, suddenly looked up. His eyes shed with a hint of disbelief and an unprecedented gleam. Xiao Yunzhou saw it all clearly, further convincing him of his daughter Xiao Chuchu''s immortal analysis. "There are many crown princes in the study hall." "Little Jiu, you may choose one, or choose none and serve tea to all the crown princes in the study hall." The assassin Jiu Xiao. Xiao Yunzhoumitted this name, known only to him, to memory. This assassin with abat power of 99, raised by the Earth and Moon Sect, could ultimately not follow him, the emperor of Jing Country loathed by the Earth and Moon Sect elders. However, Jiu Xiao could follow Jing Country. Since he was to attend the Crown Princes'' study hall, he might as well follow Jing Country''s next new ruler. Xiao Yunzhou felt relieved, his gaze turning towards the study hall''s location southwest of the imperial study. As the father emperor, I have done my utmost to resolve the current crisis for my son. As for whether he canpletely win over this assassin''s heart, making him wholeheartedly loyal and forget the Earth and Moon Sect elders, That remains to be seen, the Fifth. "Very well, Wei Zheng, until I find a new tea-serving eunuch, you shall take turns at this task." Wei Zheng: "???" "Besides ttering, you ought to learn something else." "..." That day, Cheng Qian saw the newly-arrived tea-serving eunuch in the study hall, low-key and emaciated, silent as he had been before. [Wuwu, this matter is finally resolved.] [The re-education mission isplete, though I thought the emperor father could gain a loyalist from this skilled hand. But there was no such gain at all.] [This stingy system...] Xiao Chuchu murmured endlessly in her brother''s embrace. Cheng Qian''s expression changed, and soon, before the other brothers had finished their lessons, he approached this emaciated man and knelt before him. "The Fifth... Crown Prince..." "I... I wish to study with you..." Xiao Chuchu in Cheng Qian''s embrace suddenly widened her grape-like eyes. "I... I wish to always follow you..." [What''s going on here??] [My brother re-educated the assassin?!] [Oh my, the system updated!] [The assassin Jiu Xiao, I saw hisbel - ''Assassin Master Recovered by Brother!''] [Unlocked Elite Album of 108...] [Current Elite Collection: 1/108.] Cheng Qian: "!" Chapter 118 Chapter 118 Not only was Xiao Chuchu stunned, but even Cheng Qian didn''t expect it. [What the hell, my brother cut off the Emperor Dad''s beard.] [So, this task has a reward, but the reward goes to my brother.] Cheng Qian turned red upon hearing this. [In addition to Jiu Xiao with 99bat power, there are 107 other elite characters waiting to be collected.] Xiao Chuchu clenched her fists excitedly, [Go for it, my brother!] Cheng Qian took a breath, the road ahead was long, but as long as he didn''t give up, there was hope. He couldn''t help but look at Jiu Xiao kneeling before him. "Little Jiu, get up." "From now on in the study room, you''ll join us in studying." Xiao Luzi: "!" He felt a sense of crisis, what was going on? "I''ll practice martial arts at the training ground twice a day, and if you want to study more, you cane along." Xiao Luzi howled warily, "Prince, you have me and that''s enough!" Jiu Xiao nced at his ipetent body and mind. Xiao Luzi felt a chill down his spine, "Huh? Why is it a bit cold today?" Cheng Qian: "...Alright, Xiao Luzi, Jiu Xiao is new here, you need to take care of him. If you both perform well, I''ll remember it." "..." Xiao Luzi was speechless. What''s this, he''s no longer Prince Cheng Qian''s most beloved Xiao Luzi! The sense of crisis immediately surrounded him. Cheng Qian also nced at Jiu Xiao, "You two get along well, don''t argue, and don''t... fight." [Hahaha, Xiao Luzi has abat power of 49, hahaha.] [He can''t fight at all~ Jiu Xiao could twist his head off, I''m dying ofughter.] Xiao Chuchu was now rxed,ughing heartily. Liu Wenchang, the Imperial Tutor, also breathed a sigh of relief. After confirming thepletion of the reformation task, he felt refreshed and looked favorably upon all the officials. "Old Liu, it''s thanks to you and Concubine Liu." Xiao Yunzhou did not forget the contributions of Liu Wenchang and Concubine Liu. If it weren''t for the investigation of pce maids, he might never have found the key to resolving the assassin''s resentment. Who could have thought that the other party wanted to leave him, the Emperor, and go to the next generation of the Jing Country''s royal family to start anew. "By the way, I''ve approved the dpression and counseling proposal you submitted, as well as the anonymous channel for officials to speak freely and make rmendations." "Emotional counseling is essential." Xiao Yunzhou realized its importance after the assassin incident. It''s better to vent than to bottle up, just like a river. Allowing everyone to speak freely will bringsting peace to the world. "I''ve already arranged for the Imperial Music and Dance Office to stage ys monthly for the pce staff and civil and military officials to watch regrly." "I''ve also asked the physicians at the Imperial Medical Office to research ways to help people vent their emotional issues." Xiao Yunzhou pondered, asking Liu Wenchang to discuss with the Ministry of Personnel and submit a detailed proposalter. "The New Year''s Eve break ising up, you all can think about it at home." From the first to the fifteenth, all civil and military officials will be on break, and the Emperor will mostly not work in the pce either. In the midst of firecrackers andnterns, Jing Country wees the new year. After ancestral ceremonies, Xiao Yunzhou personally wrote many "Fu" (blessing) characters and gifted them to officials who had contributed and princes, consorts, and concubines that year. Even the Empress Dowager received a couplet personally written by him this year, as he was especially filial. On the Lantern Festival, the capital was adorned withnterns and decorations. While many citizens reunited, they also reflected on the big and small events in their families that year. "Our money house earned three hundred copper coins this year, and with that unexpected money, I bought some pig offal to stir-fry and eat." "Hey, our money house also earned four hundred..." "I''m thinking, I don''t know when, but once we save up a tael, we''ll go to the restaurant and eat roast duck!" "The new piglets are really hardy, no wonder they''re raised by the Emperor''s former prime minister tutor." On the morning of the Lantern Festival, Xiao Yunzhou secretly wandered outside the pce walls to eavesdrop on people praising him. At the pce banquet that night, he couldn''t help but drink a few more cups, his face flushed red, "Gentlemen, in theing year, I''ll work together with you all to create a prosperous and flourishing era, and bring more peace and joy to the people!" The civil and military officials all stood up and toasted him. Xiao Yunzhou drank heartily, but for a moment his eyes caught sight of the Empress Dowager closest to the imperial throne. His heart skipped a beat, although the reformation wasplete, but seeing the Empress Dowager indeed closest to him, the Emperor, on the Lantern Festival pce banquet, everything was as his daughter had said, and he still couldn''t help but twitch his eyelid. Then, turning his head, Xiao Yunzhou looked towards the princes'' seats and saw a thin figure standing between the Fifth Prince and the Sixth Prince. "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s wine cup shook. [Oh my god, everything is following the novel''s plot.] Xiao Chuchu was also observing the scene from her nursemaid''s embrace. [But now it has all changed, the assassin Jiu Xiao has be a member of Jing Country''s elite collection roster.] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Elite collection roster? This was the first time he had heard of this. [There will be no more assassination attempts on the Lantern Festival.] [Hehe,] Xiao Chuchu was truly happy, [tough luck for the Elder of Earth and Moon Sect waiting for news at the teahouse on the second floor of the west gate of the pce today.] Xiao Yunzhou stared wide-eyed. [Woo, it''s a pity I can''t speak, otherwise I would have told the Emperor Dad or my brother.] Xiao Yunzhou mmed down his wine cup abruptly. He beckoned to the Minister of War. "On this Lantern Festival, I must also protect the peace and joy of the people." "Dispatch patrols, especially..." Xiao Yunzhou lowered his voice, and even Xiao Chuchu could not make out the rest of his words. Chapter 119 Chapter 119 The Upstairs Tea House in the West Gate of the Imperial Pce. Two elders disguised asmoners, one tall and solemn, the other wrinkled and cunning. "I wonder if Jiu Xiao will seed." "Rest assured, with Jiu Xiao''s skills, even the imperial guards of the previous dynasty couldn''t stop him." "s, all these years, we''ve trained nearly a hundred children, but only Jiu Xiao qualified. The rest perished. This time, we must seed!" "No problem. Ten days ago, I gave Jiu Xiao final instructions on how to proceed. Tonight, we wait for the news." The two elders shed worried looks, but soon became determined and resolute. Recalling the inhumane training process, many children couldn''t endure until the end. Only Jiu Xiao persisted. Jiu Xiao could endure what ordinary people couldn''t. He was the chosen assassin! "Yes, we wait. Tonight, we''ll surely receive news of the death of Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country." The elders clinked their teacups filled with tea. The Earth and Moon Sect, no, their imperial n would soon rise again. Just wait... Wait until the moon rises above the willow branches, wait until the tea house customers leave, wait until the curfew bell echoes in the streets... The two elders had drained three pots of tea! ncing at each other, they were getting anxious, yet there was no news of chaos in the pce, the city gates opening, or soldiers surrounding the pce walls as expected! "What''s going on? Hasn''t the Lantern Festival banquet ended yet?" "It shouldn''t be." "Perhaps the deed is done, but the news is suppressed." "Makes sense, let''s keep waiting! It must be soon!" Wait some more... The two elders took turns visiting the outhouse and drank the fourth pot of tea. Even the tea house was about to close¡ª Finally, they saw armored soldiers rushing out from the pce, and they were surrounded. "Drinking tea and whisperingte at night, you twoe with us." "???" * "Please reconsider, Your Majesty." The Lantern Festival banquet had ended inside the pce. The Minister of War, the Commander of the Imperial Guards, the Minister of Justice, and the Minister of Justice were all in Xiao Yunzhou''s study. "Arresting people without evidence, and the targets were just two elderly tea drinkers. Isn''t that unfair?" Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, always acted by thew and disapproved of the Ministry of War''s actions today, mobilizing troops to arrest two civilians at a tea house without reason. "Your Majesty, do you have any evidence of their crimes?" Zhang Wei red at the Minister of War. Ever since the Emperor introduced down jackets and instant noodles, following the advice of the Minister of War, who was close like wearing the same pants as the Duke of Dingguo, Zhang Wei felt the Emperor was being unreasonable. "Does the Ministry of Justice expect me to hand this case over for you to interrogate them? Where would you even begin?" Zhang Wei refused. Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, signaling Zhang Wei to stop. "Minister Zhang, I know you''re in a hurry, but don''t rush." Zhang Wei: "?" "This isn''t urgent? This is a case of injustice on a festival day for family reunion. The Emperor dispatches troops to arrest the wrong people, and the Ministry of Justice interrogates them blindly. How will the people view thews of Jing Country after this?" As the representative of the Ministry of Justice, Zhang Wei did not approve of the Emperor''s rash actions. As he spoke, the Minister of Justice also stepped back, clearly refusing as well. Anyway, the two elders were arrested, but the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Justice dared not detain or interrogate them! Xiao Yunzhou''s brow twitched. "Your Majesty, if you don''t let this minister speak, do you have anything to say?" Zhang Wei, being an experienced judge, never let go when he was right. "If you don''t want the Imperial Guards to continue being infamous for stealing chickens and feeling for fish, and arbitrarily detaining and ughtering civilians, hand these two over to them." "In any case, the Ministry of Justice will not detain, interrogate or torture them!" "The Ministry of Justice... ahem..." The Minister of Justice also lowered his head. "The same goes for us." Xiao Yunzhou inhaled deeply. He opened his mouth, then closed it, picked up his tea but put it down again, pinching the bridge of his nose before standing up. "This Emperor... seems to have heard the Third Princess crying. I''ll go check on the little princess first and return shortly." "?" "???" "!" Xiao Yunzhou didn''t wait for them to respond and left the study. It was past midnight, the dead of night. The sky was still pitch ck, with only the full moon hanging in the sky. Xiao Yunzhou walked to the side room at the back, feeling the cold wind on his face, dissipating the frustration and rashness from his mind. Yes, he had been rash. During the Lantern Festival banquet, upon hearing his daughter''s inner voice about the elders of the Earth and Moon Sect, the instigators plotting to assassinate him, drinking tea at a tea house, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but send people to arrest these remnants of the previous dynasty! Heaven knows, he was just a step away from death. If he had let those two Earth and Moon Sect elders go today, they might cultivate another assassin to kill him next time... Then he wouldn''t have time for anything else, constantly watching his back! "Is the little princess asleep? Don''t wake her up." Xiao Yunzhou entered the side room and saw Concubine Liu and the wet nurse guarding Xiao Chuchu. These past few days, he had been restraining himself from seeing his daughter too much. Now that everything was over, he could finally be with her. Xiao Yunzhou missed his daughter dearly, so he had Concubine Liu keep her by his side for the night. Xiao Yunzhou was vexed by Zhang Wei from the Ministry of Justice and only wanted to be close to his daughter, the reincarnation of a fairy. Xiao Yunzhou approached the cradle and warmed his hands before gently caressing his daughter''s little face. In his rashness, he had the Earth and Moon Sect members arrested. Without excuses, reasons or evidence, interrogation and torture were inappropriate. s. Xiao Yunzhou regretted it a little but didn''t want to release them, or else it would be like letting a tiger out of its cage! [Mmm...] Xiao Chuchu felt something tickling her face and sleepily opened a slit of her eyes. Seeing a familiar face, she struggled to close them again and blew a small bubble. Xiao Yunzhou was utterly charmed by his daughter''s adorable attempt to open her eyes but failing, and stopped the wet nurse from moving. He took a handkerchief and wiped his daughter''s little mouth himself. [I must be dreaming, meow, why am I dreaming about the Emperor father...] Xiao Chuchu thought she was dreaming. She closed her eyes to continue sleeping, mumbling in her heart. [Speaking of dreams, I almost forgot, the Earth and Moon Sect brainwashed their followers by iming the sect leader dreamed of a stone statue inscribed with ''Restore the Imperial Rule.'' Since then, the core followers carved the word ''Restore'' on their backs.] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" [Meow... That stone statue is still there... It''s near the East Gate, I think.] [They originally nned that if they received good news at the tea house today, they would immediately dig it out and carry out their grand scheme of ''Restoring the Imperial Rule.''] [Meow, they have people in the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Justice... Some of them even hold high ranks...] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened, and he stood up abruptly. What? The Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Justice, both have traitors!? * In the Imperial Study. "Preposterous! The Emperor cannot win an argument against this old minister, so he goes to appease his daughter?" said Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, fuming. He turned and strode out without waiting for the Emperor. "This old minister will not wait for Your Majesty any longer. I''m going home." Outside the Imperial Study, a few young ministers were standing. Among them was a tall and handsome young man who held the sixth-rank position of Assistant Minister of the Right at the Ministry of Justice. Seeing Zhang Wei emerge, he hurried to greet him, "Minister Zhang, did His Majesty agree to release them?" Zhang Wei shook his head in silence. The handsome Assistant Minister of the Right frowned in distress. "Minister Zhang, if those two elders are not released tonight, what are we to do tomorrow when their familiese demanding their release?" Zhang Wei furrowed his brow. "Don''t worry. His Majesty has been thinking a lot about the peopletely. His outburst today was momentary. Perhaps he wille around and agree to release them tomorrow." "If not, I will petition again tomorrow." "Surely His Majesty would not order them to be tortured for interrogation?" "Of course not. Even the Emperor must maintain face! Just as the Imperial Guards must act ording to thew, so must the Ministry of Justice!" The handsome young man''s eyes brightened with relief. But they had only taken three or four steps when an eunuch''s voice rang out from behind them! "The Emperor is here! His Majesty wishes to go to the Ministry of Justice prison himself to interrogate the teahouse elders in person!" "And...no one from the Ministry of Justice or the Ministry of Justice is permitted to leave!" The handsome young Assistant Minister of the Right looked momentarily flustered. Chapter 120 Chapter 120 Impossible, the Emperor cannot discover him. Zhao Yunlei, the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Justice, was frozen stiff, not knowing how he had followed Lord Zhang, the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, back to the Ministry of Justice. Unprecedented, important officials from the Ministry of Justice, from top to bottom, had all been summoned to the Ministry of Justice. The Imperial Guards and officials from the Ministry of War had also been present, filling up all the prison cells at the Ministry of Justice. "What''s going on? Why have we all been summoned so suddenly?" "So what exactly are those two arrested old men?" Xiao Yunzhou, dressed in casual attire, entered the prison cells of the Ministry of Justice and cut straight to the chase, "Where are those two elders being held? Take me there." Lord Zhang, the Minister, frowned. He had stayed up all night in the imperial study exining to the Emperor the drawbacks of making arbitrary arrests. Not only did the Emperor refuse to listen, he escted the situation even further, demanding to interrogate them personally and mobilizing all the important officials from the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Justice toe. This was solely to ensure that everyone knew the Emperor had arrested two people overnight! Lord Zhang, the Minister, finally sensed a gravitas in the situation. The Emperor must be hiding something from him! What could those two elders have been involved in, that the Emperor did not disclose even in the imperial study, yet was of such great importance? At this point, Zhang Wei took a deep breath and personally led the way, guiding the Emperor into the deepest cells of the Ministry of Justice''s prison. "Your Majesty, since we have no evidence, the Ministry of Justice did not dare mistreat them." Zhang Wei soon brought Xiao Yunzhou to the location. When Xiao Yunzhou saw it, he almost fainted. The Ministry of Justice had actually arranged tables, chairs, and books for these two Elders of the Earth and Moon Sect, and had even ced sumptuous meat dishes in front of them. These were the masterminds behind the assassination attempt on the Emperor, and yet they were being treated so well! Zhang Wei cleared his throat lightly and said with a stern expression, "Your Majesty, if we had arrested the wrong people, at least we could exin ourselves to others like this." Xiao Yunzhou''s face turned dark. The two elders in the prison cell also had drastic changes in their expressions. When they saw Xiao Yunzhou, heard Zhang Wei address him as the Emperor, and saw that he was unharmed without a single scratch, they were almost dumbfounded. "How can this be? Have we failed?" Xiao Yunzhou squinted his eyes and scoffed, looking at the two elders, "Is that what you''re thinking in your hearts?" "!" "!?" How could the Emperor know what they were thinking?! The two elders were utterly shaken. Impossible. Jiu Xiao would never betray them. Even if the mission failed, Jiu Xiao had always only followed orders and would never do anything beyond those orders. More importantly¡ªJiu Xiao did not know that they would be waiting for news at that teahouse! The two Elders of the Earth and Moon Sect were astonished, their eyes filled with shock, but they soon lowered their eyelids, reced by dread. "You... You are... Your Majesty?" "Long live Your Majesty! What crime has this old manmitted? This old man was merely drinking tea at a teahouse, a teacher by day, taking a rare half-day off during the Lantern Festival." "This old man is wronged. Why must I be imprisoned?" The Emperor could not possibly know about the teahouse, nor could he know their identities! The two Elders of the Earth and Moon Sect were certain of this. Today, when they met to await news, even other members of the sect did not know about it. "Is there stillw and order under Heaven?" The two Elders bit back, iming to be ordinary citizens. "How can the Ministry of Justice arbitrarily arrest people? When my wife and children do not see me return by morning, they will surely report to the officials!" "My students will definitelye looking for me..." "Your Majesty." Lord Zhang, the Minister, frowned. The very thing they feared hade. These two elders now imed to be teachers, and if they were wronged, it would stir up trouble with the entiremunity of schrs¡ªa problem that would be incessant. "Then perhaps we should release¡ª" The Minister of Justice was also afraid of schrs causing unrest, as they had already created a scene at the Zhengyang Gate before. But before he could finish speaking, the two elders in the cell, who had still maintained an air of righteousness, had their hopeful expressions dashed when Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand. "Guards, strip these two old men of their clothes." "!" "!?" "???" The entire prison cell fell into a deathly silence, everyone staring at Xiao Yunzhou in disbelief. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t be bothered to waste words with these people. He gestured to his attending guards, "Hurry up!" The two elders, dropping their earlier calm andposure, their faces drained of color, immediately retreated into a corner! "A schr can be killed but not disgraced!" "How can you strip us in front of everyone!" The elders cried, even turning to try to bash their heads against the wall! "This... Your Majesty, they are still schrs after all!" Even the Minister of Justice eximed. Schrs, my ass. Xiao Yunzhou was fuming. "Don''t rush, you''ll all get your turn." "?" "??" "All of you, remove your upper garments too! There are no women here, so don''t make a fuss. Schrs, strip! Ministers, you strip too!" "???" The Emperor must have gone mad. The Minister of Justice and Lord Zhang, the Minister, were trembling. The Emperor had not been so overbearing even during the early morning court sessions before the new year. Little did they expect that the Emperor had been bottling up his anger, and hadpletely lost his mind today. "A schr can be killed but not disgraced..." This time, it was not the two elders in the cell who spoke, but the Minister of Justice, his face turning ck with rage. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. "Disgraced?" "Fine, I''ll strip too." "!" "..." "Wait... Your Majesty..." The Imperial Attendants followed the Emperor''s orders unconditionally. The Imperial Guards were even more obedient, only following the Emperor''smands. Although this order was bizarre, they had to obey! In an instant, whether from the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Justice, or the prison cells, everyone was seized by the Imperial Guards and Imperial Attendants. "I''ll do it myself!" The Lord Zhang, the Minister, and the Minister of Justice were almost enraged to death. But when they turned around and saw Xiao Yunzhou beginning to untie his own robes, they fell silent. What else could they do? The Emperor seemed to have taken some kind of raving medication, as if he had gone mad. Any words they had could only be submitted in a memorial the next day, to reprimand the Emperor! "Your Majesty, you... will definitely regret this!" Lord Zhang, the Minister, said bitterly. But as soon as he finished speaking, Zhang Wei was struck dumb. Xiao Yunzhou had already readjusted his robes, but the two elders in the cell had been pinned to the ground! Their backs revealed a conspicuous tattoo of the character "rebel"! "!" "???" "...!" Lord Zhang, the Minister, and Minister of Justice Yin Moqiao''s eyes almost popped out of their sockets. "Rebel"!? These two elders truly had issues... It was like a bucket of ice-cold water had been poured over them on this winter Lantern Festival night. "This old man simply likes this character, is that not allowed?" "This old man was foolish in his youth and got this tattoo!" The two elders were still trying to make excuses. This time, no one paid any attention to them, not even Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao could speak on their behalf. It was a joke ¨C who would brand themselves as traitors without reason? You could brand yourself as ''loyal to the nation'', but instead you branded yourself as ''anti''? What are you against? Who are you against? And you still dare to say you have no problem? The Minister of Justice Zhang Wei, and the Minister of Justice Yin Moqiao, twitched their mouths, unable to listen to these clumsy excuses any longer. And when they turned their heads, they were even more terrified to see their subordinates, the young officials they had favored, one Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Justice and one official of the Ministry of Justice, had the same frightening ''anti'' character branded on their backs! "Heh heh." Xiao Yunzhou''s lowughter echoed in the prison cell. "Oh, you all seem to like that character." "How coincidental, you four strangers share the same preference." "How is it that they are all branded in the same ce?" "Minister of Justice, Minister of Justice, what do you make of this coincidence?" Thud¡ª The official robes of the Ministers of Justice dropped to the ground! Chapter 121 Chapter 121 "I never expected that a schr and officials from the Ministry of Justice would share such a peculiar predilection." "The locations of their tattoos are uncannily coordinated." Xiao Yunzhou frowned as he looked at the two pale-faced elders and the trembling young officials from the Ministry of Justice in the prison cell. "Will you confess in the Ministry of Justice''s prison, or in the Imperial Censors'' interrogation chambers?" Xiao Yunzhou turned and sat down on a chair brought over by the guards. The four men froze, their gazes crisscrossing. Everyone could see it clearly - the character "rebel" tattooed in a simr size on the lower right shoulder de of each of them. Such a damning coincidence, coupled with the ominous word "rebel," could hardly ur simultaneously on officials andmoners. If it did, it was bound to arouse suspicion! "I... I''ll confess!" Zhao Yunlei, the Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Justice, was the first to buckle. "Nonsense, do not implicate me! I don''t know you!" The imprisoned elder tried to deny it. But the young Zhao Yunlei, unable to withstand the pressure, trembled as his gaze met the calm Emperor Xiao Yunzhou and the Imperial Censors. "Your Majesty, I confess, I belong to the Earth and Moon Sect!" "!" "??" "!!" All the officials in the Ministry of Justice''s prison were stunned. What... what sect? It didn''t sound like a legitimate Taoist sect. Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, turned ghastly pale. "But I was coerced. I''m an orphan, raised by them. If I didn''t obey them, they wouldn''t feed me and would beat me. Many have been beaten or starved to death." "Because I was literate and attained an official rank, they valued me. They threatened my wife and children, forcing me to get tattooed and use the tattoo to ckmail me into continuing to work for the Earth and Moon Sect, passing messages! Otherwise, they could use the tattoo to use me before the court at any time!" Zhao Yunlei instantly betrayed the Earth and Moon Sect, confessing everything. The tattoo was not only a pledge of loyalty but also a means of coercion. The officials from the Ministry of Justice were appalled. A heretical sect, this was a heretical sect! Xiao Yunzhou snorted coldly, "Tell us how many of their bases you know. The Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Justice will conduct a joint investigation!" Themps in the Ministry of Justice burned through the night. The interrogationsted the entire night. Finally, at the crack of dawn, the sweat-drenched Minister Zhang Wei and Minister Yin Moqiao of Justice ran to the Emperor with a thick stack of confessions. "Your Majesty, those two elders... turned out to be elders of the Earth and Moon Sect!" "One of them was even the Deputy Sect Leader." "They... they intended to overthrow your reign and restore the previous dynasty." "They are remnants of the former imperial family." Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, had a flushed face. The Minister of Justice, Yin Moqiao, kept wiping his sweat, nervously ncing at Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t even nce at the confessions, calmly acknowledging with a nod, his expression suggesting, ''I knew all along.'' Yin Moqiao was stunned by the Emperor''sposure. So the Emperor had known beforehand? Terrifying. The Emperor sat in the pce daily, yet his knowledge of intelligence far surpassed the Six Ministries. This wasn''t the first time. Yin Moqiao had been rattled before, but now he felt a sense of... reassurance? That members of this heretical sect, remnants of the former dynasty plotting rebellion, had infiltrated his Ministry of Justice as a trusted sixth-rank official - the thought made Yin Moqiao shudder in hindsight! A remnant of the former dynasty had worked alongside him daily, attending court sessions together, even discussing official matters one-on-one. What if they had taken the opportunity to assassinate him when they were alone? If not for the Emperor''s perspicacityst night, his life could have been in jeopardy! "I have failed in my duties, unforgivable." "Thanks to Your Majesty''s wisdom!" Yin Moqiao''s face fell as he kowtowed in apology. Beside him, Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, also looked embarrassed as he knelt down, "The two elders arrested at the teahouse, one of them has confessed that they were waiting for..." Zhang Wei paused, then prostrated himself. "Waiting for the oue of the assassination attempt on Your Majesty during the Lantern Festival." Wei Zheng, the Imperial Attendant by Xiao Yunzhou''s side, widened his eyes in shock, "What? Audacious!" Wei Zheng was the Supervisor of the Pce Household. He couldn''t help but berate Zhang Wei. "Such a grave matter, and the Ministry of Justice only uncovered it now, after repeatedly obstructing His Majesty from imprisoning those two elders!" "Minister Zhang, you have some nerve! Are you trying to rebel?" "If not for His Majesty''s wisdom in sending the Imperial Army to make the arrests, wouldn''t we be in danger now?" "Ah, you scoundrel, have you identified the assassin?" Had this been in the past, if a eunuch had scolded Zhang Wei like this, he would have rolled up his sleeves and traded insults with the eunuch. But now, he could not refute a single word of Wei Zheng''s usations, his face flushed red. It was true. He had nearly let an elder of a heretical sect plotting to assassinate the Emperor go free! "I am ashamed, Lord Wei speaks the truth." Xiao Yunzhou was delighted. Although Wei Zheng was only good at ttery, he was useful at critical moments like this. Wei Zheng would put on a stern face, allowing Xiao Yunzhou to y the benevolent Emperor. "Enough, I haven''t spoken yet, and Wei Zheng, why are you being so impatient?" Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand dismissively. "How can you address a high-ranking court official with such disrespect?" Zhang Wei felt embarrassed yet touched. "Your Majesty, that elder has revealed the identity of the assassin. His name is Jiu Xiao¡ª" But before he could finish, Xiao Yunzhou mmed the table, cutting him off. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed, "There''s no need to mention that assassin! I am well aware of him!" Ha, the assassin Jiu Xiao, the little tea-serving eunuch with a martial arts skill of 99, was the subject of Xiao Yunzhou''s reform efforts for over half a month. It wasn''t easy to sessfully reform Jiu Xiao and gain approval from the immortal realm, allowing him to be one of the 108 elite talents in the ''Jing Country Talent As.'' If the Ministry of Justice continued investigating and angered Jiu Xiao, causing his allegiance to waver, wouldn''t Xiao Yunzhou''s efforts have been in vain? Xiao Yunzhou put down his tea cup resolutely, his expression grave, "You will all act as if you are unaware of the assassin Jiu Xiao''s identity, and never mention it again." "!" "?" Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, and Yin Moqiao, the Minister of Justice, were stunned once more. Even Wei Zheng looked puzzled and concerned, "Your Majesty, this concerns your safety..." Before he could finish, Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao gave him disdainful looks. Wei Zheng was being foolish. Didn''t the Emperor''s meaning seem clear? This assassin, the Earth and Moon Sect thought he was one of their own, but in reality, he was Xiao Yunzhou''s man! Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, was stunned by Xiao Yunzhou''s tactics at this point. "No wonder Your Majesty knew the Earth and Moon Sect elders were in the tea house, it turns out you had nted a mole in the Earth and Moon Sect!" Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. Huh? "It''s no wonder Your Majesty knows their every move inside out, including the backstabbing, it turns out our court had people within the Earth and Moon Sect." Ah. That''s really not the case. There was only one little princess. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat softly, his ears slightly flushed, "Those Earth and Moon Sect bases¡ª" "Your Majesty, rest assured, we canunch an attack on them at daybreak. Would you like to review the locations they confessed to, to make sure there are no omissions?" "..." Ah. What did he know? Xiao Yunzhou''s lips twitched, and he looked at the Minister of Justice who made such a suggestion with deep sorrow, "Minister Yin, you''re no longer a three-year-old child." Minister Yin Moqiao: "...?" "It''s time for you to grow up and handle cases independently." "!" "s, with you all acting like this, it''s really difficult for me." Xiao Yunzhou clicked his tongue and shook his head. "If word gets out that I''m better than the Minister of Justice and the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, how would that look?" "..." Chapter 122 Chapter 122 The interrogation at the Ministry of Justice hade to an end. Xiao Yunzhou, stifling a yawn, finally set off to return to the pce. But just as he was about to walk out of the Ministry of Justice''s main gate, his footsteps halted. Wait a moment. The uing operation to encircle and suppress the Earth and Moon Sect''s stronghold would undoubtedly involve mobilizing troops. No matter how careful they were, it would be hard to ensure that during the discussion in the imperial study, the news wouldn''t reach the ears of his precious daughter, Chu Chu. He could fool anyone else, even as the supreme ruler. But he couldn''t casually fool Chu Chu, his daughter who was a reincarnated fairy! How did he know about the Earth and Moon Sect''s elder at the teahouse? Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t find a reason to fool his daughter¡ªbecause it was her heart''s voice that told him! This won''t do! Xiao Yunzhou''s expression fluctuated; he couldn''t just go back like this. His Chu Chu, if she knew that her heart''s voice could be heard and could influence the world, she would never be that happy again. Xiao Yunzhou suddenly turned back, looking at the exhausted Zhang Wei, Minister of the Ministry of Justice, and Yin Moqiao, Minister of the Ministry of Punishment. After contemting for a moment, he lowered his voice and began to speak. "My Ministry of Justice is ipetent, my Ministry of Punishment is also ipetent. I''m too embarrassed to bring this up at tomorrow''s morning court." "..." Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao''s expressions changed. Here ites, the emperor''s scolding that was dyed all night was finallying. "This old servant willingly requests punishment." "This old servant has disgraced his ck gauze cap." Their not knowing beforehand that the Earth and Moon Sect was at the teahouse wasn''t a major crime. But both the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Punishment had spies from the Earth and Moon Sect infiltrate them, and they couldn''t escape responsibility for that. However, Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "Don''t alwayse with this routine of requesting punishment or resignation. I''m not buying it." "..." Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao''s mouths twitched. What does the emperor want? If he wants to scold, then scold! At worst, he''ll fine their sries! Both of them prepared for the worst. But unexpectedly, Xiao Yunzhou, with a straight face, spoke words that seemed as if he were possessed. "Your ipetence, I''m too ashamed to announce to the world." "The heretical sect''s elder I caught myself, the heretical sect''s assassin I resolved myself, the heretical sect''s spy I found myself." "How am I supposed to exin this?" "Where''s my face? Where''s my dignity?" Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao: "..." The emperor''s sarcasm skills had leveled up again. Both high officials were red-faced and burning-eared, pped right in the face by these words. They couldn''t even lift their heads, both in pain and numbness. "So," Xiao Yunzhou looked at the two men''s expressions, feeling the temperature was about right, and lightly coughed, "Zhang Wei, send a memorial up tomorrow morning." "Describe how your Ministry of Justice discovered the Earth and Moon Sect''s plot this time." Minister of Justice Zhang Wei suddenly looked up, "Huh?" "Your Majesty, you mean..." Xiao Yunzhou raised his hand, stopping his voice, "For the sake of my face, I don''t want all the civil and military officials to know that it was I who personally caught the Earth and Moon Sect''s rebels." "Remember, it was the Ministry of Justice that discovered the rebels'' unusual movements, and then told me before the Lantern Festival. That''s why I ordered the capture of the remnants of the previous dynasty." Minister of Justice Zhang Wei was utterly stunned. Earlier he was just red-faced, now he was simply too ashamed to show his face. Not only did the emperor not me the Ministry of Justice for failing to detect this, but he even credited the Ministry with the sky-high achievement of discovering the remnants of the previous dynasty? "This..." Zhang Wei was speechless. Even the previous emperor had never been so magnanimous! He immediately willingly bent over, "Your servant will definitely not fail Your Majesty''smand!" ¡¾Ding, your imperial father has won over a die-hard follower.¡¿ ¡¾Current progress 3/5!¡¿ When Xiao Chu Chu woke up the next day, she saw this system message first thing in the morning. She was greatly surprised. ¡¾What did Father Emperor dotest night? Didn''t he sleep?¡¿ ¡¾My goodness, other emperors are drinking and making merry at night, while my Father Emperor is still handling state affairs?¡¿ Early in the morning, Xiao Yunzhou, after a short rest, came to see his daughter and was invigorated by her heart''s voice. Amidst his daughter''s continuous praises, he stood proudly with his chest out. "Your Majesty, the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Punishment have sent memorials and request an urgent audience." Wei Zheng reported timely. Xiao Yunzhou felt something, and hugged his daughter with a chuckle, "Let them in." He wanted his daughter to hear that the threat from the Earth and Moon Sect was gone. From now on, his daughter wouldn''t have to worry about this minor issue anymore. "Your Majesty, the situation is as follows." Minister of Punishment Yin Moqiao had even started coborating with the Ministry of Justice. "Half a month ago, the Ministry of Justice discovered a suspicious elder frequently lingering in front of the pce gates, and they had long locked onto him." "During the Lantern Festival, they didn''t return home at night, discussing ''assassination,'' ''emperor,'' and ''previous dynasty'' over tea. The Ministry of Justice immediately reported!" "Last night indeed, the Earth and Moon Sect''s plot was uncovered through interrogation. All strongholds in the capital have beenpletely suppressed, sect members are imprisoned in the Ministry of Justice, and the Ministry of Punishment will jointly interrogate with the Ministry of Justice!" ¡¾! Oh my, no wonder my points have skyrocketed.¡¿ Xiao Chu Chu was delighted. ¡¾Let me take a look at the live broadcast of the suppression scene.¡¿ "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face changed dramatically in an instant, so nervous that sweat was about to break out on his forehead. His daughter even had this ability? She must never see the scene of him coaxing the Ministry of Justice to ''take credit.'' Fortunately, Xiao Chu Chu didn''t watch for long before her attention was diverted by other matters. ¡¾Oh, national power has increased by 1.6%.¡¿ ¡¾Ah, now I can do a ten-pull again.¡¿ So fast! Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. ¡¾"The Secret Method of Silkworm Rearing in Weaving"¡¿ ¡¾"Eradicating Smallpox - The Cowpox Method"¡¿ ¡¾"Autopsy Coroner''s Edition"¡¿ "!" In the imperial study, Xiao Yunzhou sat on the dragon throne, his gaze fixed. "Your Majesty, is this eptable for dealing with the remnants of the Earth and Moon Sect?" Zhang Wei from the Ministry of Justice respectfully looked at the emperor. But Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t utter a word for a long while. His interest had waned, and he waved his hand, "The Ministry of Punishment will work with the Ministry of Justice. You two have full authority over the Earth and Moon Sect matter." No need to ask this emperor. Because this emperor had more important things to do now. He was going to rear silkworms, eradicate smallpox, and perform autopsies. No, that''s not it. He was going to pay close attention to the Ministry of Revenue, the Imperial Academy of Medicine, and the Ministry of Punishment. Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered, looking at the Minister of Punishment, the nearly fifty-year-old Yin Moqiao. "My beloved minister Yin, I might need to visit the Ministry of Punishment in the next few days to listen in on cases. Make preparations." "???" While the Ministry of Punishment was still puzzling over this, not long after, during the morning court, the Minister of Rites reported. "Your Majesty, at the turn of the new year, the Khan of Wu Yun Country wishes toe to our Jing Country''s capital to meet with you in person." Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. He didn''t have time to meet. He was busy preparing to rear silkworms, perform autopsies, and inocte for smallpox... Xiao Yunzhou was about to say it wasn''t necessary, let that Khan be busy on his own, when he heard his daughter''s heart''s voice arise from behind the morning court curtain. [Oh my, the plot of the novel has reached this point.] [The beloved son of the Khan of Wu Yun Country died from smallpox. Not long after his visit to Jing Country, his third son will also contract smallpox.] [From then on, the two countries became mortal enemies.] [Oh dear, my "Method of Cowpox Vination" is truly timely.] Xiao Yunzhou suddenly looked up. Chapter 123 Chapter 123 Smallpox was a malignant disease, one that even the Imperial Academy of Medicine had little confidence in treating. The visiting Khan of Wu Yun Country, who had brought his entire family along, now faced a dire situation: his child had contracted smallpox while in Jing Country... The mere thought of this made Xiao Yunzhou break into a sweat. Such an incident could very well lead to war between the two nations. What an unfortunate coincidence! Nothing had happened until they came to Jing Country, but as soon as they arrived as guests in the royal pce, their prince fell ill with smallpox. Xiao Yunzhou''s face darkened. It was as if the heavens wished to destroy his Jing Country! Should this tragedye to pass, he would have no way to defend himself. No matter how he tried to exin, no one would believe that Jing Country wasn''t responsible. [s, ording to the plot, shortly after the Wu Yun Country''s young prince dies from smallpox, a young eunuch in our Jing Country''s royal pce is discovered to have contracted the disease.] [Yes, it''s the eunuch sent by Consort Li to take care of the Fourth Prince.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. As the date of Wu Yun Country''s visit approached, Xiao Chuchu recalled all the relevant plot points. [This young eunuch happened to request leave from the pce on Lantern Festival night, iming he needed to handle his father''s funeral affairs, but he was lying!] [In truth, he is one of the hidden agents of the Earth and Moon Sect...] Xiao Yunzhou nearly leapt from his dragon throne in an instant. The Earth and Moon Sect still had people? [ording to the n, after Jiu Xiao''s assassination attempt on the Emperor, the hidden agents of the Earth and Moon Sect were to begin their operation, aiming to exterminate the princes of Jing Country!] Xiao Yunzhou''s pupils dted in shock. This was a chain of attacks¡ªthese remnants of the previous dynasty were attempting to uproot the entire bloodline of the Xiao family! [The young eunuch left the pce on Lantern Festival night, and the next day he would intentionally bring in clothes and pus fluid from smallpox patients, hoping to infect the princes.] "!" As he listened, Xiao Yunzhou''s heart trembled violently, and every hair on his body stood on end. This incident wasn''t mentioned in the morning''s interrogation results from the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review. Xiao Yunzhou suddenly remembered that Zhang Wei had said the Earth and Moon Sect''s elder had confessed, but the Vice Leader was stubborn and refused to say anything. It seemed that only the Vice Leader knew about this smallpox plot. He could imagine it all now. If the assassin had seeded and he, the Emperor, had perished, the ministers would urgently discuss the matter of the new Emperor''s session. At that time, this young eunuch would enter the pce with clothes from smallpox patients, infecting the princes around him, and then infecting the new monarch... What a vicious chain of plots by the Earth and Moon Sect! [By calction, this young eunuch should be returning to the pce today.] Xiao Yunzhou stared wide-eyed. [Fortunately, Consort Li is extremely fond of the Fourth Prince and thought this young eunuch''s family funeral was inauspicious. After his return, she had him sent back to the Internal Affairs Department.] [He didn''t manage to harm our princes, but when the Wu Yun Country''s prince arrived, he brought cmity upon him!] Xiao Chuchu recalled all the subsequent plot points from the novel. However, in the novel, after the Lantern Festival, Xiao Yunzhou had already been wounded by the assassin, the Empress Dowager had passed away, and the Khan of Wu Yun Country hade to pay his respects. [I wonder in what form my drawn skill, ''The Method of Cowpox Inoction,'' will be used for the benefit of Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu was also very curious. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed, bing inscrutable. After a long while, he looked towards the group of civil and military officials in the morning court. What other form could it take? Of course, it would be his own idea¡ªhim, the father of this fairy-reincarnated little princess¡ªahem, enlightening his ministers. [Early human pox method: Take pus from the sores and use cotton to plug the nostrils of the person being inocted;] [Water vine method: Grind smallpox scabs into powder and mix with water, then use cotton to soak and plug into the nostrils] [Later, inspired by the human pox method, the cowpox method was developed¡ªusing cows infected with the smallpox virus...] Xiao Chuchu had already begun reading her drawn skill book. Her inner voice gradually transmitted clearly into Xiao Yunzhou''s ears. Xiao Yunzhou immediately sat upright, his expression solemn, ears perked. Inside the morning court hall, the Liu family father and son also slowly furrowed their brows. "Court dismissed." Three quarters of an hourter, the two factions of ministers finally finished arguing about the Earth and Moon Sect''s affair. Xiao Yunzhou also let out a long breath, having listened to his daughter''s array of inoction methods. He pressed his slightly dizzy temples and rose. He quickly signaled Wei Zheng to stop the Liu family father and son, one from the Ministry of Personnel and one from the Ministry of Works, along with the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Punishments. The Liu family pair were fine. But the Minister of Justice and the Minister of Punishments were very nervous. "Your Majesty, are you dissatisfied with the handling of the Earth and Moon Sect just now?" Xiao Yunzhou motioned for them to be quiet first, gave Wei Zheng a look, and said, "The little princess is hungry. Tell Concubine Liu to let her rest with the little princess for a while." The corner of Zhang Wei''s mouth twitched. Now he found everything about the Emperor good, except that he was too sentimental about his children! The little princess wasn''t crying or making a fuss; how could she be hungry? Was the Emperor too family-oriented? But Xiao Yunzhou''s next nce had already turned to him, "This morning, a batch of anonymous memorial reports from civil and military officials was delivered to me." "!" Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao both instinctively looked towards Liu Wenchang from the Ministry of Personnel. This business of official reporting, a fixed monthly channel allowing everyone to speak freely to the Emperor, was created by Liu Wenchang. Fearing that people might have reservations normally, these report memorials were specially processed to be all anonymous. As for how to be anonymous¡ªwhether writing with the right hand instead of the left, or having an old servant at home transcribe to change the handwriting¡ªthat was up to the ministers to figure out. In any case, this report memorial drop box was right at the Zhengyang Gate. You could drop off a letter even in the middle of the night. "Your Majesty, has someone reported matters rted to the Earth and Moon Sect?" Zhang Wei frowned. Xiao Yunzhou nodded, "Correct. You two now need to inquire clearly: who in your two departments had smallpox in their youth?" Zhang Wei and Yin Moqiao were both surprised. How strange, one moment they were dealing with the Earth and Moon Sect''s assassination and rebellion. The next moment, they were discussing smallpox? [Wow, the modern corporateint mailbox idea really works.] Behind the screen where she was eavesdropping on the court, Xiao Chuchu was drinking milk while marveling. [The Earth and Moon Sect''s smallpox plot was actually known by someone and reported to Father Emperor?] Ha-ha. Xiao Yunzhou strongly resisted the urge to curl his lips upward. It really was useful. This "Official Report Box." Currently, only he, the Son of Heaven, could see what was in this box. Whatever he said, went. Xiao Yunzhou lightly coughed and looked at Old Liu, "If this matter proves true, Old Liu, you who came up with this hundred-official reporting channel will be my great meritorious official." "Good, Old Liu and Liu Runnian, you both have had smallpox before. I heard Concubine Liu mention it." "Come with me, all of you." * Outside the Zhengyang Gate, the Fourth Prince''s personal attendant eunuch, who was only fifteen or sixteen years old and looked honest and simple, was returning to the pce with his luggage. "Lord Quan Xing, you''ve returned." One must show deference to a prince''s personal attendant and the pce gate guards. "Please ept our condolences." Everyone could see the grief of losing a father etched on Quan Xing''s face. But just as Quan Xing had opened his personal satchel for the pce gate guards to inspect, before he could even muster a relieved smile¡ªhe was suddenly surrounded by more than thirty heavily armed soldiers who burst out from nowhere! "Quan Xing, drop your bag immediately!" Quan Xing froze in shock. He saw that the thirty-plus heavily armed soldiers were fully equipped, each with their faces concealed by veils! Behind them, several figures in official robes quickly emerged. These robed officials were all unrecognizable, as they each wore thick masks. Even their hands were wrapped up! "Raise your hands!" "Kneel down!" "Don''t move!" Quan Xing: "!!?" Chapter 124 Chapter 124 How could this be possible? At that moment, Quan Xing''s inner thoughts were identical to those of Zhang Wei, the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, and Minister Yin of the Ministry of Punishments. How could the Emperor possibly take notice of a mere eunuch like him? This was impossible. "Search his belongings to see if he has any old clothes that do not fit his size." Quan Xing''s expression instantly turned pale with fear. How had he been exposed? "Are there any bottles or jars containing any substances?" Xiao Yunzhou frowned and stood at the back, ordering the attendants who went to search to be more thorough. Soon, the search yielded results. "Your Majesty, there are indeed some undergarments sized for children!" The attendant shook out all the clothes from the bundle. They quickly discovered several small underpants and undershirts clearly sized for a five- or six-year-old child. As these garments were shaken by the attendants, who were fully covered in protective clothing, their tiny size suitable only for a young child became evident. And Quan Xing was already fourteen or fifteen years old, with a height reaching the shoulders of the attendants, clearly unable to fit into these children''s underpants! "These... these are the clothes of your servant''s younger brother. Your servant missed home and dared to bring them into the pce. They are not prohibited items," Quan Xing protested with a pale face. But the attendants surrounded him in a circle, pinning him to the ground with over a dozen long spears. They all stood at least one person''s distance away from him! Quan Xing''s lips trembled, but he still held a glimmer of hope in his heart. However, the Emperor''s survival without a single scratch made Quan Xing panic. This was different from what the Vice Leader had told him. How could the Emperor be unharmed? Before Quan Xing could ponder further, he heard the attendants'' search results that filled him with even greater horror and despair. "Your Majesty, we indeed found a porcin box!" The attendant dug out a t, palm-sized porcin container resembling a rouge box from the bundle. "This... this is ointment for frostbite on your servant''s hands during the cold weather..." Quan Xing made excuses. That was what he had told the pce gate attendants earlier, and they had merely nced at it before letting him through. But this time, it wouldn''t work! Soon, a person fully covered from head to toe, including their hands and face, approached with a medicine box. They opened the porcin box, carefully sampled a small amount with a silver needle onto a white cloth, and examined it closely while also smelling it. It didn''t take long before they lit a taper and burned the samplepletely. "Your Majesty, it is indeed a substance rted to pus and sores, very simr to smallpox pustules." "!" "...!" "!!" Although all the attendants and officials present had their hands, feet, and even mouths and noses covered, they still collectively took a step back. "Take him to the Ministry of Justice for strict interrogation. Any officials handling this must have had smallpox in their childhood!" The Earth and Moon Sect is too poisonous. The Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Punishments were both stunned. "Your Majesty, this time, it''s thanks to you..." Zhang Wei, the Minister of the Ministry of Justice, respectfully looked towards Xiao Yunzhou after Quan Xing was apprehended and he had discarded his protective mask and gloves at the designated burning site. Just as Xiao Yunzhou was about to speak, he was interrupted. Zhang Wei wore an ''I understand'' expression. "It is due to my ipetence and the ipetence of the Ministry of Justice that Your Majesty had to find an excuse, saying it was an anonymous informant who reported this." Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly. "Don''t overthink it." There was indeed an anonymous informant. Just not someone from the court, but rather Xiao Chuchu, the little Princess~ "Yes, I understand. I will never reveal to others that it was Your Majesty who discovered the smallpox plot yourself." Zhang Wei was already somewhat moved. He never expected that at such a young age, Xiao Yunzhou would possess more grace and wisdom than some Emperors recorded in history! After Zhang Wei withdrew, Minister Yin of the Ministry of Punishments also frequently cast admiring nces towards the Emperor. They were both nearly fifty years old. At fifty, one understands the will of Heaven! How could it be such a coincidence that justst night, they allowed the Ministry of Justice to im credit for discovering the Earth and Moon Sect, and today, there was already an anonymous informant reporting the matter of the smallpox-infected eunuch? This must have been arranged by the Emperor himself! Such a ruse could only fool children, not officials like them who had served for twenty or thirty years. Minister Yin''s expression changed as he deeply gazed at Xiao Yunzhou before withdrawing to investigate the remaining conspirators. [Ding! You have gained another die-hard follower for your Imperial Father.] Xiao Chuchu was watching the scene of Quan Xing the eunuch being caught red-handed with great excitement. She was just short of munching on some melon seeds when she suddenly received the system notification. [Oh, just one more, and the Imperial Father can upgrade his attributes.] Xiao Chuchu was amused. [It''s understandable. In this case with the Earth and Moon Sect, the Imperial Father handled it quite well.] [One smallpox crisis, eliminated without a trace.] [Now, there is no more smallpox crisis in the pce.] Xiao Chuchu breathed a sigh of relief. Otherwise, with her small body, she might not have been able to withstand the ravages of smallpox. [The mortality rate of smallpox in ancient times was at least one-third, if not higher. I''m still young with weak resistance. I might not have been able to survive it. But now, I''m safe.] Hearing these words, Concubine Liu and Xiao Yunzhou, who had finished his duties and came to see his daughter, both felt their hearts tighten with anxiety. That was too close! Just a little more, and...! If Quan Xing had brought in substances rted to smallpox into the pce, the little Princess''s safety would have been in jeopardy! "Go and inform Consort Li that Quan Xing has been apprehended. All eunuchs and maids on her side must also undergo interrogation and examination!" Xiao Yunzhou was still not at ease. He gave Concubine Liu a signal before returning to the study hall. Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Head Imperial Physician Hu, Liu Wenchang, and Liu Runnian he had summoned, and spoke. "I have called you here because I want you to quickly research and develop a method to reduce, or even prevent, smallpox infections." The Head Imperial Physician Hu was dumbfounded. What? Smallpox, a contagious disease, could it really be said to be prevented just like that? "Wei Zheng, have all the other members of the Imperial Physician''s Office been summoned?" Xiao Yunzhou was now in a hurry. He couldn''t help but be urgent. Just thinking about the little Princess, so small, possibly contracting smallpox, made this Imperial Father''s heart shatter. "Your Majesty, we went to summon them as soon as you left to apprehend Quan Xing. They should be arriving soon." Wei Zheng did not dare neglect this and hurriedly replied. It didn''t take long before the sound of hurried footsteps could be heard outside the study hall. Nearly twenty imperial physicians from the Imperial Physician''s Office, along with around forty medical assistants, had all been summoned at once. Everyone gathered outside the study hall door, bumping into each other and exchanging puzzled looks. Both those on duty and off duty at the Imperial Physician''s Office that day had been summoned. What major event had urred? Even when an Emperor passed away, the summons wouldn''t be of this scale... The physicians exchanged nces, trembling in fear. The more physicians summoned, the harder the illness was to treat! No one dared to step forward now. But soon, Xiao Yunzhou spoke up, directly interrupting their idle thoughts. "I''ll get straight to the point. Remnants from the previous dynasty today smuggled smallpox into the pce, intending to infect the princes and princesses." "!" "!!" Apart from Head Imperial Physician Hu, who had just participated in inspecting all the items from Quan Xing, the other imperial physicians were unaware of this. Upon hearing it, they all showed looks of terror. Smallpox! Once infected, not to mention the princes and princesses, even the Emperor himself would be difficult to cure. The Emperor''s sons and grandsons, like ordinary citizens, would have half their body in the grave if they contracted smallpox. Even the most skilled physicians could not necessarily pull someone back from the gates of hell. Because currently, there was no medical treatment that could guarantee the survival of a smallpox patient! The imperial physicians immediately became anxious. They mustn''t let the princes suffer from it and have to treat them. They could not guarantee they could cure the princes even if they risked their heads. But Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, quickly dispelling their worries, "No one in the pce is infected yet." "Phew." The imperial physicians exhaled a long breath of relief. But the next moment, they were stunned. Xiao Yunzhou set down his teacup, "But considering the princes are still young, and the baby princesses are not even a year old, I have summoned you all to put your heads together and devise a way to eradicate smallpox." "I do not wish to wait. Let''s set a limit of ten days." "......" "!??" "???" In the entire imperial study, apart from Concubine Liu''s family and Head Imperial Physician Hu, who had already heard the Emperor make such outrageous ims before¡ª The other imperial physicians were petrified! What? Did the Emperor just say ten days? Hell, it takes more than ten days to give birth to a child! Now he wants to eradicate smallpox in ten days? Chapter 125 Chapter 125 The imperial physicians in the study chamber were petrified. They looked at the Emperor with silent protest in their eyes. But Xiao Yunzhou pretended not to notice. "You all discuss it first. After the evening meal, the Emperor wille and hear about your progress." "By the way, Liu Runnian." Xiao Yunzhou turned his gaze toward Liu Runnian, the brilliant uncle whose talents were recognized by Little Princess. "You have always been innovative, even though you don''t understand medicine. You should stay and listen to the Imperial Academy of Medicine''s views on smallpox. If you have any sudden insight, you can also discuss it with the Emperor''s imperial physicians." When the Emperor said this, Liu Runnian immediately received hostile looks from all the imperial physicians present. Nonsense. Utter nonsense! The left and right chief imperial physicians fixed their piercing gazes on Liu Runnian. How could someone who doesn''t understand medicinee up with a way to eradicate smallpox? Utterly absurd. If it weren''t the Emperor who said it, they might have argued with him on the spot. "Humph." "Well." The left and right chief physicians, and the bolder elderly imperial physicians, snorted and turned their backs on Liu Runnian. Liu Runnian: "..." Wearing the official robe of the Ministry of Works, he felt quite awkward among the Imperial Academy of Medicine. But... he had indeed heard how Little Princess dealt with smallpox. ...It''s just inoction, isn''t it? Liu Runnian suppressed his expression and looked down at his feet. "By the way, Old Liu," Xiao Yunzhou continued, turning to Liu Wenchang, "you can also draft a memorial for the Emperor at the Ministry of Personnel. If anyone knows a divine physician or has studied smallpox, they can submit a petition. Whoever has merit, the Emperor will reward them." Liu Wenchang acknowledged the order. Before leaving, he gave his eldest son a ''be careful'' look. Liu Runnian took a deep breath, indicating he understood. "That''s all for now. You all discuss it, while the Emperor handles the matters of the Earth and Moon Sect." With that, Xiao Yunzhou went to the Hall of Governance. There was no helping it; he was truly upied, stretched too thin. He could only let the imperial physicians discuss first. Of course, he knew that the imperial physicians wouldn''te up with anything, since the inoction technique didn''t belong to the mortal realm, but was brought by Little Princess from the Immortal Realm. But no matter, he, the Son of Heaven, would ''guide'' themter on. With these thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou went to discuss with themander of the Imperial Guards about investigating the remnants of the Earth and Moon Sect outside the capital. The study chamber fell silent, then erupted in loud voices. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, is this what you meant when you said the Emperor''s medical skills are superb? I really believed your heresy!" The right chief imperial physician, who looked quite healthy and robust in his sixties due to good self-care, was now flushed and full of vigor. "I think the Emperor hasn''t even read half a medical book. He''s just spouting nonsense, utter nonsense!" Head Imperial Physician Hu was almost reprimanded in the face by the right chief physician. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, be honest, how much favor did you receive from the Emperor?" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "..." In all honesty, ever since the Duke of Dingguo suddenly fell ill and was promptly treated by the Emperor''s timely summoning of Head Imperial Physician Hu, he hade to believe that the gue medicine was devised by the Emperor himself. But regarding the Duke of Dingguo''s matter, Head Imperial Physician Hu couldn''t disclose the details to others. In the entire Imperial Academy of Medicine, only a few people believed that the Emperor''s medical skills were indeed superb. "Let''s be fair," Head Imperial Physician Hu cleared his throat, his face flushed. "You''re all well aware of the devastation caused by smallpox. Since the Emperor is determined to eradicate it, we should all put in our best efforts." Although he said this, Head Imperial Physician Hu himself knew that the Emperor''s order to eliminate smallpox this time was a thorny task. As the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, he didn''t have much confidence either. But the Emperor''smand cannot be disobeyed. "Everyone," Liu Runnian finally couldn''t help but speak up, "isn''t it unwise to give up before even starting? After the evening meal, the Emperor wille, so I think we should start pooling our ideas early." "Ahem, do we have any medical books on smallpox that I can borrow and take a look first?" Liu Runnian asked shamelessly, despite the contemptuous looks from the imperial physicians. "..." The imperial physicians were speechless. Liu Runnian''s attempt to study medicine at thest minute was futile, as he waspletely ignorant about it. What a mess. "Well, Lord Liu is right. Let''s begin." Head Imperial Physician Hu, under pressure, instructed the medical assistants to find the books. Soon, not only Liu Runnian but also the imperial physicians began searching through the books. "Eruptions on the face and body, spreading rapidly, resembling fire rash... If not treated immediately, severe cases often result in death." Liu Runnian read aloud earnestly, as if to help himself understand better. But within a radius of one step around him, not a single imperial physician was willing to stand beside him for discussion! The imperial physicians scorned associating with him. "This book records that consuming patties made from water-buffalo lice and flour with porridge can prevent smallpox." Head Imperial Physician Hu soon found a record but shook his head before finishing, "This method is not effective." "Nope, it won''t work." The left chief physician waved his hand. "When I was young, an elder in my vige tried it on his grandson, but it had no effect." The surrounding imperial physicians nodded in agreement. "It may have asional effects, but those are exceptions." Head Imperial Physician Hu sighed and put down the book he was holding, only for Liu Runnian to pick it up. "Esteemed physicians, although I don''t understand medicine, I''ve read some medical theories and roughly know about observation, auscultation, inquiry, and palpation, and treating the root cause." To everyone''s surprise, Liu Runnian spoke up. "This method of making patties from water-buffalo lice and flour should not have been randomly concocted by the author of this book. There must be some medical reasoning behind it." Liu Runnian didn''t understand medicine, but he had heard Little Princess''s thoughts earlier about the cowpox method - inoction! To Liu Runnian, the cowpox method was essentially fighting poison with poison! Introducing a milder form of the disease into the body, allowing a small infection to ur, thus preventing the possibility of future infections. This line of thinking was actually quite simr to the ''consuming patties made from water-buffalo lice and flour with porridge to prevent smallpox''! It seems that the early author who recorded this medical method already had the rudimentary idea of inoction! Far from dismissing this method as ineffective, Liu Runnian felt as if he had heard a celestial melody and wished the imperial physicians would carefully study it further. "Could we perhaps continue exploring along this line of thought?" Liu Runnian looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu. "When I was young, I heard stories that mentioned the phrase ''fighting poison with poison'' more than once. For the smallpox disease..." Head Imperial Physician Hu looked awkward, but before he could speak, the surrounding imperial physicians began chuckling. "Lord Liu, you truly are... full of novel ideas." "Lord Liu, have you finished all your work at the Ministry of Works?" "Lord Liu, what a brilliant idea - fighting poison with poison! If you ever fall ill, this old man will treat you by fighting poison with poison. How about that?" "..." Liu Runnian''s mouth twitched. Damn it. He now realized the suffering of the Emperor''s brother-inw, Xiao Yunzhou. Trying to guide these people, why was it so difficult? They just didn''t get it, this group! Liu Runnian sighed and simply retreated to a corner to read books. "Hmph! He''s getting upset now? I''m not even upset." "That''s right." The people from the Imperial Academy of Medicine couldn''t help butment when they saw Liu Runnian''s reaction. After dinner. The people from the Imperial Academy of Medicine continued reading and drafting prescriptions without pause. Xiao Yunzhou returned to the Imperial Study Room and saw everyone sitting on the floor, engaged in endless debate. He was greatly relieved, "Oh, you''re discussing it so fervently. So, do you have any ideas yet?" The Imperial Academy of Medicine fell silent. They debated endlessly because they had no definitive conclusion. Under Heaven, there were no medical texts to follow for preventing smallpox. Xiao Yunzhou nodded, "It is indeed difficult." After all, it was a method only known to the Little Princess from the Immortal Realm. It was normal for ordinary people to be unable to think of it. Xiao Yunzhou sat down, picked up his tea cup, and gently blew on it, "Well, why don''t you all listen to my thoughts?" "??" "I already have an immature idea." "What do you think about the words ''fighting poison with poison''?" "!!!" The people from the Imperial Academy of Medicine forcibly restrained themselves from turning to look at Liu Runnian, who had remained silent in the corner for a long time! What kind of idea was that? Why did it sound so familiar, this "immature" suggestion! Chapter 126 Chapter 126 After Xiao Yunzhou finished speaking, he found the Imperial Study Room in an eerie silence. His brows twitched, and he could only repeat himself, "To fight poison with poison, what do you think, Head Imperial Physician Hu?" The imperial physicians were stunned. The Emperor and Liu Runnian, the brother-inw of the Liu Family, shared such an understanding? Even the radical method of fighting poison with poison, they were inplete ord! This was no mere marriage alliance, but rather long-lost brothers reunited!? The crowd fell silent. But the Head Imperial Physician Hu, who was addressed, had to speak up, "I do not know Your Majesty''s rationale for this method. Lord Liu had just proposed the same thing..." Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu Runnian in astonishment. Liu Runnian cleared his throat and hurried to the front, exining the rudimentary "fighting poison with poison" method that the Head Imperial Physician Hu had mentioned earlier. "I do not understand medicine, but I have a vague feeling that the ancients'' methods were not random shots in the dark, and may contain the true way to prevent smallpox." "p!" Xiao Yunzhou pped his thigh, excited by what he heard, "Good! Well said, Runnian!" He, the Emperor, was originally going toe up with reasons to tell the Imperial Academy of Medicine how he, the sovereign, had conceived of this inoction method. Now, this Liu Runnian had helped him tremendously! The more Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu Runnian, the more he admired him. He was indeed the intelligent person described by the Little Princess, the destined uncle of the Little Princess. "Good, Runnian, I didn''t misjudge you. I knew that if you could conceive of the method of artificial incubation, you would also be able to apply it by extension and give the Imperial Academy of Medicine an enlightening hint at a critical moment." The Imperial Academy of Medicine: "...?" The imperial physicians were utterly bewildered. What enlightening hint? "Your Majesty, the method Lord Liu referred to has long been proven useless." But Xiao Yunzhou stood up, looked at the Left Judge who spoke, and said, "Left Judge, did you ever contract smallpox in your childhood?" The Left Judge was taken aback, and his face quickly flushed red. He had. In his childhood, he had contracted smallpox, which left pockmarks and uneven skin on the right side of his brow, a scar from the smallpox lesions. "What does Your Majesty mean by this?" Don''t hit a person''s sore spot. The Left Judge''s chest heaved with indignation. If the Emperor used this to mock and insult him, he would resign immediately. He was a physician, not an official. Despite the blemish on his face, it did not affect the dignity of the Imperial Court in any way. But as the Left Judge seethed with anger, he heard Xiao Yunzhou''s next words, which thundered like a bolt of lightning! "Left Judge, after recovering from smallpox in childhood, have you ever encountered smallpox patients again? And after recovering from smallpox in childhood, you never contracted it again, why is that?" Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. His words stunned the Left Judge and all the imperial physicians of the Imperial Academy of Medicine. Before them, it was as if an endless, pitch-ck night had been suddenly pierced by a lightning bolt, bringing forth a blinding light! Like parting the clouds to reveal the sun, they seemed to have grasped something. Indeed, why did those who had smallpox in childhood never contract it again after growing up? Seeing their look of enlightenment, Xiao Yunzhou nodded with satisfaction, "Earlier, when I ordered the arrest of the eunuch carrying smallpox pustules, I specifically appointed guards who had contracted smallpox in childhood. During the entire interrogation process, only officials from the Ministry of Justice who had contracted smallpox were involved." "I do not want the smallpox epidemic to spread." Xiao Yunzhou raised his head, basking in the sunlight and exuding an aura of wisdom, slowly saying, "But when I returned, I thought, since those who have had it won''t get it again¡ªcould this be a way to prevent someone from contracting smallpox?" "!" "!!" Everyone in the Imperial Academy of Medicine was shaken. So this was what the Emperor meant by fighting poison with poison! Upon careful consideration, it made some... sense. "Your Majesty, you mean," the Head Imperial Physician Hu''s voice trembled, "to deliberately infect someone with the smallpox virus before they contract the disease, letting them get it once first." The Left Judge''s eyes widened in shock. This method sounded outrageous and bold, "This method could be fatal, Your Majesty!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face darkened. There was no risk-free endeavor in this world. Heaven had already bestowed the Little Princess upon them, bringing words from the immortal realm. The Imperial Kingdom had already received divine blessings. Were they not willing to take even a slight risk? "I summoned you here, not to sleep and dream up a way tobat smallpox!" Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, leaning forward and ring at the Imperial Academy of Medicine. "I summoned you here to think and experiment!" "Experiment to find a safe way to inocte against smallpox!" Inoction... The members of the Imperial Academy of Medicine were all struck by this apt and precise term. "Runnian, I''m tired. Help them out." Xiao Yunzhou waved dismissively. The Imperial Academy of Medicine: "..." Their lips twitched in dismay. Liu Runnian smiled wryly and stepped forward, "I will do my best, but since I don''t understand medicine, I still need the help of the imperial physicians." Xiao Yunzhou stopped his modesty, rising from behind the desk, "I''ll go rest first." It wasn''t that he didn''t want to continue guiding the imperial physicians. But the specific operational methods could only be determined by the knowledgeable physicians themselves. After all, different fields were as distant as mountains. Even though he, the Emperor, had heard the Little Princess''s wisdom, the secrets of inoction did not exin the step-by-step process in such detail. The imperial physicians had to figure it out themselves. Moreover... the Little Princess would get tired too, right? He couldn''t rely on the Little Princess for everything! "You need to learn to use your own brains." Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Imperial Academy of Medicine and admonished them sternly. "There are so many serious diseases in the world!" "There are so many patients in the world!" "How can I alone cure them all!?" The Imperial Academy of Medicine: "..." They watched the majestic figure of Xiao Yunzhou leave with his hands behind his back, unable to move for a long time. "s, I''ve said it before, His Majesty''s medical skills are likely profound, but you didn''t believe me," the Head Imperial Physician Hu clicked his tongue and shook his head. Liu Runnian''s lips twitched as he cleared his throat lightly. "Esteemed imperial physicians, your medical expertise is outstanding. After hearing His Majesty''s enlightenment, I also have some immature thoughts. Would you care to listen?" "For example, regarding the Left Judge''s concern about inoction leading to death, is it possible to directly use the pustules from a patient recovering from smallpox to inocte?" The Left Judge hissed. Sometimes, the solution to a problem was so elusive, no matter how hard one tried. But once someone pointed it out, it seemed so simple! "Also," Liu Runnian had indeed heard the wisdom of his niece, "is it possible,bining the ancient method of making cakes with cowpox, to use cowpox to inocte people? Would that be safer?" "..." "...?" "...!" The members of the Imperial Academy of Medicine were first astonished, then doubtful, and finally fell into deep contemtion. "Don''t say it, don''t say it, the more I think about it, the more sense it makes!" "Of course, these are just my foolish opinions. As for how to implement it, we need the advice of all the Imperial Physicians." Liu Runnian was very humble, because truly he didn''t know how to handle it. He could raise ducks, after all he had done it as a child, but treating diseases he really didn''t understand. But as a child in the vige, he had seen cows with smallpox. "Those cows with smallpox, it didn''t seem that terrifying for people." The truth was just a fine line away! "Let''s try it like this, we''ll split into several teams..." Head Imperial Physician Hu immediately began making arrangements. In the blink of an eye, the Imperial Academy of Medicine was bustling with activity. * As Xiao Yunzhou walked out of the Imperial Study, preparing to go see his daughter, he stopped, suddenly remembering something. Looking towards Wei Zheng, "Hmm, let the Ministry of Rites draft a reply." "Tell the Khan of Wu Yun Country to wait a little longer before departing." "Wait until my imperial nation has developed a method to prevent smallpox, then he cane without dy." "...!" Wei Zheng let out a surprised sound. As a tterer, this time he couldn''t even offer ttery. They hadn''t written a single character yet. The Emperor''s arrogance was being directed all the way to Wu Yun Country! Chapter 127 Chapter 127 The Khan of Wu Yun Country was determined to depart for the capital of Jing Country, and no one could dissuade him. He had to leave immediately. "If I dy by even a day, the money in Jing Country''s banks would earn less interest," he said. "The loss would be tremendous." The Khan of Wu Yun Country was adamant about visiting the Emperor of Jing Country. It wasn''t due to brotherly affection, but rather his craving for the interest offered by Jing Country''s banks! "Now that trade has opened between our realms, most of Jing Country''s citizens have deposited their silver in Jing Country''s banks, while my Wu Yun people can only watch," the Khan of Wu Yun Country frowned. "I have heard manyints recently." Before the New Year, during the period when trade was open between the two countries, most Jing Country citizens had collected two months'' worth of interest and used it to buy New Year''s goods, candies, and seeds... cheerfully celebrating the New Year. The interest wasn''t much - most citizens were just testing the waters and deposited only a few taels of silver scraps at most. The interest amounted to no more than a few dozen wen, but it was seen as money falling from the heavens, cause for great delight. At the trade borders, any Jing Country citizen who had collected interest was joyful, from the day before the New Year until the seventh or eighth day, greeting everyone by bragging about the interest they had received. The customary greeting changed from "Have you eaten?" to "Hey, did you get your interest?"... Jing Country''s citizens boasted to their own, which quickly became nauseating, and they gradually turned their boasting towards the people of Wu Yun Country who came to trade. The greatest joy in this world is - you have none, I have some. And I got it without any effort! The people of Wu Yun Country suddenly became the prime target for Jing Country''s citizens to unt their interest! They boasted every day, during trades, upon meeting others, and even as they departed... In short, any Wu Yun ''ant'' passing by could not escape the boasting about the interest from Jing Country''s banks! After some time, the Khan of Wu Yun Country began to develop a headache. The citizens of Wu Yun Country started to make a fuss! They too wanted to deposit money in the banks! They too wanted this free interest! The two realms were right next to each other, separated by just a few steps, so why should Jing Country''s people have it while they didn''t? "Khan, why don''t we write to Jing Country and ask if we can emte them by establishing a Wu Yun Country bank..." The ministers below made the suggestion, but the Khan just shook his head upon hearing it. They were a nomadic people with far fewer fixed trading stalls than Jing Country. Not to mention banks? To gather so much silver, return it in full when due, plus interest... The Khan pondered and grew even more troubled. There was frequent conflict between their tribes. If one tribe raided another tribe''s bank and stole the deposited silver, it would be aplete disaster. The Khan took a deep breath, "No need to persuade me further. This time, I intend to go to Jing Country and discuss with them the possibility of my Wu Yun people depositing money in their banks." "If they refuse to return our money and keep it..." The Khan shook his head. "We don''t have much silver. I''m considering negotiating with the Emperor of Jing Country to use war horses, sheep, and other goods in ce of silver to deposit." The Wu Yun Country ministers'' eyes lit up. It was a good idea - they had surplus livestock on the grasnds. If Jing Country withheld the deposits, they could use trade to pressure them into returning grain. "So I must go this time. None of you need to persuade me further." For such an important matter, the Khan of Wu Yun Country did not trust sending an envoy. More importantly, he wanted to meet the Emperor of Jing Country in person to judge whether he was trustworthy enough for Wu Yun people to earn interest in Jing Country''s banks. If the Emperor of Jing Country was unreliable, he would not even bring up the topic of banks. "I will also bring some grasnd warriors to show Jing Country the spirit of Wu Yun Country." The Wu Yun Country ministers all agreed upon hearing this. But just as they had finished discussing, an envoy from Jing Country arrived. He entered the imperial tent and paid his respects. "Esteemed Khan of Wu Yun Country, my Emperor of Jing Country suggests that you travel at a leisurely pace, for Jing Country is about to undertake a nationwide endeavor, to be implemented first in the capital." "Hmm?" The Khan was puzzled. Another big affair? Was Jing Country stirring up trouble again? It hadn''t been long since they opened trade and banks with Wu Yun Country - those were already major undertakings. What else could Jing Country have in store? "Yes, His Majesty intends to eradicate the scourge of the world - smallpox - within Jing Country." "!" Not only the Khan of Wu Yun Country, but even his ministers were stunned into silence. Had they heard correctly? Especially the Khan - three years ago, his youngest and most beloved son had died from smallpox. Even the Khan''s child could not be saved by any medicine or treatment. The Emperor of Jing Country said what? That he would eliminate smallpox in Jing Country? "This... how is that possible?" The Wu Yun Country ministers did not believe it. They red at the envoy with hostile looks, their tempers ring. "If you don''t want our Khan to go to your capital, just say so directly!" "Don''t spout such nonsense? Eradicate smallpox? Is this just an excuse to prevent our Khan from visiting Jing Country for the next ten or hundred years?" The Khan of Wu Yun Country also looked extremely displeased. Indeed, this seemed like nothing but a dying tactic! Jing Country could have used any excuse, but they chose smallpox instead. Smallpox, which had taken his beloved son''s life, was his eternal pain! In their grasnd, there was an ancient saying: a child who had not contracted smallpox was considered as good as unborn. Only children who survived smallpox were considered truly alive! Because so many children - nearly a quarter - died from smallpox each year. The Khan of Wu Yun Country was furious. "Very well, very well. Since Jing Country makes such a bold im, then I shall wait!" "I hope the Emperor of Jing Country keeps his word. If smallpox is not eradicated, then in this lifetime, do not expect me to set foot in Jing Country! The same applies to my envoys!" Wu Yun Country valued force above all, and their tempers were explosive. "Khan, has Jing Country be arrogant after tasting the benefits of trade, no longer regarding us highly?" "Perhaps we should seek trade with Chu State instead!" "Yes! I cannot stand this insult!" The Jing Country envoy broke out in a cold sweat. That very night, the envoy rushed back to Jing Country from the Wu Yun Imperial Tent, changing horses six times and not daring to rest. Seven dayster, he burst into the Ministry of Rites covered in dust. "Your Excellency, it''s not good! The Khan of Wu Yun Country is enraged after learning the news and wants to cancel trade!" But before he could exin the situation, he saw His Excellency hastily mustering troops. His Excellency was delighted to see him. "Ah? You''ve returned from Wu Yun Country so quickly? I was just about to send a new envoy with a letter!" The envoy was overjoyed. "Does this mean His Majesty will retract the statement about smallpox?" That would be excellent news. "The Khan and people of Wu Yun Country believe our country is deliberately dying and does not wish to receive their Khan. They are extremely enraged!" "If His Majesty could retract the im about smallpox and send someone to apologize, there is still time to make amends¡ª" But before he could finish, Shang Feng stopped him. "What do you mean by withdrawing and apologizing? Don''t say such nonsense." The Ministry of Rites official was nearly frightened to death. He stood with his hands behind his back, gazing proudly towards the distant grasnds. "Although the eradication of smallpox has not been fully achieved during your thirteen-day mission, some progress has been made." The Envoy: "?" The Ministry of Rites official smiled, "That''s why the Emperor, fearing the Khan of Wu Yun Country might be anxious, instructed me to immediately dispatch a new envoy to deliver the news of our progress." The Envoy: "!" What? His thirteen-day mission had already yielded progress? [Oh my, father Emperor, there''s a new mission for me!] Xiao Yunzhou was listening to the Imperial Physicians discuss new research on smallpox inoction, asionally teasing his young daughter. But suddenly, his daughter let out a startled cry, and he immediately stood up with a solemn air. The Celestial Realm had bestowed a new mission upon him, the mortal Emperor? Even with the Imperial Physician present, Xiao Yunzhou straightened up. For a Celestial Realm mission, he, the mortal Emperor, could not remain seated! He must observe the proper hierarchy! Xiao Yunzhou instantly looked humbly towards his beloved little Princess. Then he heard Chu Chu''s voice echo in his mind. [New Mission: Reverse the smallpox death of the Crown Prince of Wu Yun Country.] [Mission Deadline: Within 30 days, if no action is taken, the other party will contract smallpox and die.] [Punishment: Diplomatic rtions between Wu Yun Country and Jing Country will be irreversibly severed.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s breathing suddenly caught in his throat. Chapter 128 Chapter 128 [Ah, it seems that the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince sumbing to smallpox is an established plot point that cannot be easily changed.] Xiao Chuchu shook her head in Wei Zhenghuai''s embrace. [Even if the eunuch who inadvertently brought smallpox into the pce is dealt with, the smallpox crisis will still ur on schedule.] [Logically speaking, since the Khan of Wu Yun Country is noting to Jing Country now, even if the Crown Prince contracts smallpox within thirty days, it should not be med on us in Jing Country.] [It should not affect diplomatic rtions between the two countries.] Xiao Chuchu mused, but when she checked the broadcast from Wu Yun Country, she saw the meddlesome actions taken by Xiao Yunzhou''s envoy. [Ah, so it was the Father Emperor himself who went and talked about smallpox. No wonder, a monthter when the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince falls ill with smallpox, the Khan will naturally vent his anger at Jing Country''s loose lips.] [This mission was brought upon us by the Father Emperor himself.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face flushed red. He dared not move from where he stood. "Your Majesty?" Head Imperial Physician Hu, who was reporting on the cowpox vine trials, grew nervous at the Emperor''s sudden reaction. "Do you have any objections?" Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes; how could he dare object? The reincarnated celestial maiden, his little imperial princess, said it, so he could only listen! This smallpox crisis was indeed caused by his loose lips! No matter, he would smooth things over with Wu Yun Countryter once the research progressed. For now, this had brought about a celestial trial. He had indeed brought this upon himself. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, his face tense as he looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu. "I''ll give you ten more days. Can you guaranteeplete sess?" "I wish to send an invitation to the Khan of Wu Yun Country to bring his princes and princesses to be inocted. Will there be any issues?" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "???" [The Head Imperial Physician''s face was frozen in utter shock¡ªthose few words were written all over it.] Xiao Chuchu almost burst outughing, but thinking of the impending death of the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince, she could not find it funny. [Excellent, the Father Emperor is already on the path toplete the mission. I don''t need to find a way to remind him.] Necessary. This father of hers must take the initiative. Xiao Yunzhou picked up his tea cup and spoke gravely to Head Imperial Physician Hu, "The Khan of Wu Yun Country lost three elder brothers and two elder sisters to smallpox in his youth, and he also lost a young son." "I empathize with his pain, and cannot bear to see our brother nation suffer the scourge of smallpox again." Head Imperial Physician Hu was sweating on his forehead listening to this. The first subjects for inoction would be a neighboring country''s royal prince? "This must seed, failure is not permitted." Xiao Yunzhou gave the Imperial Academy of Medicine a stern order. [Indeed, Chu State has been waiting eagerly to form an alliance with Wu Yun Country, hoping that Wu Yun will have a falling out with our Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu thought to herself, [We cannot let Chu State seed.] [Moreover, human lives are at stake. The sooner we develop a sessful cowpox inoction method, the sooner we can prevent the deaths of more children.] Truly befitting of her kind-hearted celestial maiden~ Xiao Yunzhou could not help himself and took his daughter from Wei Zheng''s arms, hugging her adoringly. He wished he could cuddle with his daughter all day, but s, he still had state affairs to attend to. "You may take your leave," Xiao Yunzhou gave Head Imperial Physician Hu a look, "I still have matters to attend to." "..." Head Imperial Physician Hu looked at the Emperor cuddling his daughter like a doting father, his lips twitching. He quickly took his leave, but his mind was weighed down with worries. Back at the Imperial Academy of Medicine, Head Imperial Physician Hu sighed heavily, feeling immense pressure. "What''s the matter? Is His Majesty unsatisfied with our progress?" The Imperial Physicians quickly gathered around him. "No," Head Imperial Physician Hu did not know how to exin, "His Majesty has given us thirty days to develop a safe and wless inoction method." It was too daunting to mention inocting the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince, lest any of his colleagues refuse toe to work the next day. But to Head Imperial Physician Hu''s surprise, instead of protesting this unreasonable demand, his colleagues actually looked overjoyed. "Thirty days? Did His Majesty really say that?" "??" "There''s hope, Head Imperial Physician Hu!" The Imperial Physicians, with dark circles under their eyes, were delighted. "His Majesty has made urate predictions time and again, from the gue to smallpox. This time, by stating thirty days, it must mean His Majesty believes we can definitely seed!" "We''re saved! It seems we can manage it within thirty days!" "??!" Head Imperial Physician Hu was speechless. But strangely, he too felt a sense of reassurance. Indeed, whenever he went to the Imperial Study, and encountered difficulties with the cowpox vine research, His Majesty always seemed to have a solution. It was truly reassuring. "Alright, let''s give it our all! If it''s thirty days, then thirty days it is!" Head Imperial Physician Hu found newfound courage and confidence. "Thirty days from now, not only the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince, we''ll be ready to inocte even the Khan himself with cowpox!" "...Ah?" "!" "Let''s do it!" The entire Imperial Academy of Medicine was filled with a vibrant atmosphere. Qianqiu, a pce maid attending to Consort Li, happened to be there to fetch medicine. Upon overhearing this, her expression changed drastically, and she hurriedly left. * "So there is truly a way to eradicate smallpox?" In the Cining Pce, The Empress Dowager was conversing with The Empress and the Imperial Consorts. Her question was directed mainly at Concubine Liu, not The Empress. For Concubine Liu was the head official of the imperial harem, the only consort who could openly participate in state affairs! "Has there been any progress?" The Empress Dowager was deeply concerned about the welfare of the people, and naturally took great interest in this significant matter of smallpox. "The human inoction method has shown some sess," Concubine Liu was well-informed about this matter. While she was often busy organizing the production of quilted robes, whenever she returned to the pce, the little princess would ry thetest broadcasts from the Imperial Physicians through her inner voice. "However, the human inoction method is not yet absolutely safe, as a small number of cases still developed into severe illness. The Imperial Academy of Medicine is now attempting the more reliable cowpox inoction method." The Empress Dowager''s brow furrowed at first, but then her expression brightened. "So you''re saying the human inoction method has already rendered many cases mild, and those inocted will not be infected again?" Concubine Liu nodded, "Yes, that''s what the Imperial Physicians have been testing. Children who have recovered from the human inoction, when exposed to the clothing of smallpox patients, did not contract the disease again." The Empress Dowager''s face beamed with delight. "Wonderful! Your little princess has made a great contribution. I''ve heard that His Majesty was moved by the little princess''s tender age and decided to tackle the smallpox crisis." Before Concubine Liu could modestly decline the praise, the snide Consort Li interrupted her. "Concubine Liu, why are you only sharing the good news with The Empress Dowager and The Empress, and not mentioning the bad?" Consort Li sneered coldly. Her attendant eunuch Quan Xing was involved in the outbreak that prompted this smallpox prevention effort. How could the credit all go to a princess not even a year old? "Today, my Qianqiu went to the Imperial Academy of Medicine to fetch medicine, but I overheard them mentioning that thirty days from now, they will be inocting the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince against smallpox." Consort Li snorted at Concubine Liu, then turned to the Empress Dowager and the Empress with a worried expression. "Concubine Liu, you concealed such an important matter. What if the inoction fails and the Wu Yun Country Crown Prince falls gravely ill or dies? What then?" "Concubine Liu, can you bear the responsibility if this leads to war between our two nations?" Concubine Liu frowned. The Empress Dowager and the Empress could not help but change their expressions upon hearing this. Especially the Empress, thinking of her own eldest son''s future ascension to the throne and inheriting the immense enmity of the Wu Yun Country, she grew furious. "Concubine Liu, is this true? For such a risky matter, why did you not advise the Emperor?!" [Oh no, my mother is being scolded.] In the Imperial Study. Xiao Yunzhou, who was cradling and personally feeding water to Xiao Chuchu, froze for a moment. Little Xiao Chuchu pouted, and her inner thoughts emerged, displeased. [The Empress wants my mother to manage Father Emperor? If she doesn''t, she gets scolded.] Xiao Yunzhou rolled his eyes. Since taking control of state affairs, he disliked others trying to manage him the most! In the past, even the Empress''s own father managed him excessively. [Really, Father Emperor is already so old,] Xiao Chuchu thought unhappily. Indeed! Xiao Yunzhou agreed with his beloved daughter''s inner voice and stood up, looking at Wei Zheng. "What day is it today?" "The thirtieth of the first month," Wei Zheng replied respectfully. "You forgetful fool, you didn''t even remind me!" Xiao Yunzhou said displeased as he walked out. "My mother instructed me just yesterday to visit her today!" Wei Zheng: "???" Ah? When did that happen? There was no such thing! Chapter 129 Chapter 129 Cining Pce. "Exactly! As a female official, Concubine Liu is a model of trust from the Empress Dowager and the Empress in the imperial harem. How can she not advise the Emperor?" Seeing the Empress displeased, Consort Li was overjoyed and frantically tried to trip up Concubine Liu. In truth, Consort Li didn''t care who the Emperor favored. But why could Concubine Liu be a female official, and she couldn''t? Concubine Liu could eat bird''s nest and abalone, while she had to fill out profit and loss statements to eat? Now when Consort Li looked at Concubine Liu, it was pure jealousy! Not because of the Emperor''s favor, but because of the treatment and importance Concubine Liu received in the imperial harem! Concubine Liu invented down jackets and spinning wheels, and Consort Li thought it was all because Concubine Liu had a clever elder brother. These must all be Liu Runnian''s ideas, given to Concubine Liu for credit. Consort Li was jealous and resentful. Now, she finally found a chance to question Concubine Liu''s ability to handle matters. "It''s only been thirty days. Even if this inoction method is truly effective, there hasn''t been enough time to prove it. To perform it on the prince of a neighboring country, if nothing happens, it''s fine, but if something goes wrong, you can''t escape the me!" Consort Li was aggressive, but she felt she had a point. Even the Empress nodded, this time also siding with Consort Li, severely reprimanding Concubine Liu in front of the Empress Dowager. "If you are so unaware, so ignorant of the gravity of the matter, I can request a decree to promote you, and I can also request a decree to demote your rank!" "If something happens to the Wu Yun Country''s prince, you''ll be a criminal in both countries. Even if you''re banished to the cold pce, Concubine Liu, it''s what you deserve!" [Oh, the Empress is so fierce.] Xiao Chuchu, held by Xiao Yunzhou at the entrance of Cining Pce, couldn''t help but think. [But this has nothing to do with my mother.] [Each profession has its own expertise. Which official is responsible for everything under heaven?] Xiao Yunzhou had been listening outside the door, his chest heaving. Looking down at his daughter, he saw her small mouth pouting, obviously frightened by the loud scolding of the Empress and Consort Li, and his anger red even more. "Concubine Liu, go now and remonstrate with the Emperor!" Empress Tong coldly ordered Liu Chaniang. [Whimper, why doesn''t the Empress go herself? Is she using my mother as a scapegoat?] Xiao Chuchu frowned unhappily. Sinceing to this world, she had received genuine care and love from Liu Chaniang, and gradually opened her heart, viewing Liu Chaniang as her true mother in this world. When faced with disputes, Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but be protective, feeling sorry that her mother was scolded. [When there''s no problem, the Empress is the esteemed mistress of the harem, but when there''s trouble, everything bes my mother''s responsibility? What kind of logic is this?] [Empress, you''re so good at speaking, why don''t you find the Emperor Father yourself, why don''t you go and remonstrate yourself?] [Apart from the Empress Dowager, the Empress gets the most monthly allowance in the harem!] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. Xiao Chuchu unhappily puffed up her pink, tender cheeks in her swaddling clothes. Inside Cining Pce, the Empress was still directing Concubine Liu, "The Emperor might get angry after hearing your remonstrance. But you must understand, even if he gets angry with you, it''s still better than future war between the two countries." [Oh my, Empress, you haven''t even spoken to the Emperor Father yet, how do you know he''ll get angry?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but criticize in her heart. She used to hate this kind of colleague in her previous workce. [He''ll definitely get angry, so you let my mother go and persuade him?] [In your heart, is the Emperor Father a tyrant who won''t listen to advice?] Xiao Yunzhou instantly frowned, looking towards the Empress inside the hall. So, this was how the Empress saw him? "If you encounter difficulties, can''t get through to the Emperor, there''s still the Empress Dowager." The Empress was still persuading Liu Chaniang. What does that mean? Using the Empress Dowager to pressure him? Xiao Yunzhou''s heart burned with anger, he could no longer hold back, and strode into the hall. "Empress, this matter has nothing to do with Concubine Liu. If you have something to say to me, speak directly to me! Don''t use Concubine Liu one moment, and the Empress Dowager the next!" Xiao Yunzhou looked angrily at the Empress beside the Empress Dowager, seeing her still in her usual dignified manner. But he didn''t know that the Empress had such little trust in him. In the Empress''s eyes, he, the Emperor, was wrong, wouldn''t listen to advice, and would fly into a rage. Xiao Yunzhou''s chest heaved, "For future morning courts, should I also invite you, Empress, to attend behind a curtain? Otherwise, I might also be a criminal to both countries, isn''t that right?" How did the Emperore? The Empress was shocked. Even Consort Li fearfully put down her teacup with a tter. The Empress Dowager frowned, "Emperor, don''t be hasty. About the smallpox matter, is it really as Consort Li said? We can just try this inoction method in our own Jing Country, why do we need to manage Wu Yun Country?" Xiao Yunzhou, suppressing his urge tosh out at the Empress, paid his respects to the Empress Dowager. "Mother, that statement is incorrect." If anyone else had said this, he would have definitely given them a severe lesson! But this was the mother who willingly saved him, sacrificing her own life. So, Xiao Yunzhou held back. "Throughout dynasties, rise and fall are nothing more than four words: internal troubles and external threats." Xiao Yunzhou exined, while ring at the Empress and Consort Li, "If we only look at the present, Jing Country might notst long." Even the Empress Dowager was stunned by Xiao Yunzhou''s words. [Awoo, the Emperor Father''s level of thinking is so high now.] Xiao Chuchu always took a ''praise when done well, criticize when not'' internalmentary and spectator attitude towards her old man. [He''s starting to look a bit like the wise rulers in history books.] Xiao Yunzhou suppressed a smile. Of course! After all, he had received the fairy''s enlightenment, so his perspective was bound to be higher than ordinary people! "For the smallpox matter, speaking of internal troubles and external threats, we should take a two-pronged approach." "If it seeds, our rtionship with Wu Yun Country will remain good and stable for the next fifty, even a hundred years." Xiao Yunzhou''s words left the Empress Dowager with no rebuttal. "Mother, if back then, the Khan of Wu Yun Country had researched smallpox and saved my elder brother, wouldn''t you and Father have felt grateful towards Wu Yun Country?" The Empress Dowager''s gaze wavered. Of course. She and thete Emperor loved their eldest son the most, but unfortunately... "If my elder brother hadn''t died, perhaps today he would be the one ascending the throne," Xiao Yunzhou sighed, "If he knew his life was preserved because of Wu Yun Country, wouldn''t he remember their kindness after taking personal control of the government?" Absolutely. The Empress Dowager nodded, "Your elder brother had a loyal and honest nature. If he were still here, he would definitely remember others'' kindness." Xiao Yunzhou nodded, "The reverse is also true. Perhaps in the generations after the next, they might gradually forget each other''s kindness, but for at least thirty to fifty years, the current Khan of Wu Yun Country, until the next prince ascends the throne, they will definitely maintain trade with our Jing Country and won''t easily go to war with us." "Internal strife and external threats, I have resolved a part of it," Emperor Xiao Yunzhou said. The Empress Dowager couldn''t help but acknowledge this, and immediately cast a reproachful nce at the Empress and Consort Li, who had been impatient earlier. "Rest assured, Your Majesty. This old one is certainly not a person with such short-sightedness." The Empress and Consort Li thought, "???" Was the Empress Dowager implying something about them? But the Empress Dowager quickly changed her tone and couldn''t help but look worriedly at Xiao Yunzhou, "Yet, this old one has heard that Your Majesty has only given the Imperial Medical Academy thirty days to administer the first batch of cowpox vinations to the princes of Wu Yun Country. If something goes wrong..." Xiao Yunzhou stood up, "The princes of Wu Yun Country won''t be the first batch." "The first batch will be my princes!" Everyone in the Cining Pce, except for Concubine Liu and Xiao Chuchu, was shocked. "Your Majesty!" The Empress was anxious, "How can we let our princes try it?" Xiao Yunzhou turned around, "Naturally, what the Empress said just now makes sense. If it affects the rtions between the two countries, I would be the sinner." "!" Even the Empress Dowager was eager to object, "Your Majesty, please reconsider this matter¡ª" ¡¾In the face of disease, princes andmoners are no different.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu had read history books. ¡¾Even the Qing Dynasty princes had to be vinated. Though worried, there was no other way.¡¿ ¡¾Moreover, to promote cowpox vination and encourage the people to try it bravely, the best way is to first promote it in the royal family.¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. Qing Dynasty? Could it be a dynasty from the immortal realm? Though puzzled, his daughter''s thoughts were nothing but the greatest support for him. "Mother, there''s no need to persuade further. I am no different from the fathers of ordinary families, and the princes are the same as the children ofmon people." Xiao Yunzhou stood up. At this moment, he felt a burning sensation in his heart. He felt that he had elevated himself again. Not in intelligence, but in his state of mind! Could this be his further step towards the path of immortality? "My princes will be the first batch of cowpox vine recipients. I will write a letter to the Khan of Wu Yun Country, asking him to await the results of the vination before bringing his children to Jing Country for inoction." * In the royal tent of Wu Yun Country. The Khan was tossing and turning, unable to sleep. Two days ago, smallpox had broken out among the children on the nearby grasnds. These past few days, the shamans had been busy non-stop, and he was very worried. "Report¡ªKhan, another envoy hase from Jing Country!" The Khan of Wu Yun Country sat up in one swift motion, irritation written all over his face. "Don''t see him!" That jinx from Jing Country! Last time they talked about smallpox, and it really broke out near him! Now he gets annoyed just hearing about Jing Country! "But Khan, they said," the guard outside hesitated but still reported, "they seem to have found a method to prevent and treat smallpox." The Khan of Wu Yun Country stood up angrily, "No matter what they say, I won''t see..." "Hmm?" "!!" "What? What did you say? They found what?" Chapter 130 Chapter 130 When the Khan of Wu Yun Country arrived in the capital of Jing Country with his two princes, the Minister of Rites of Jing Country was taken aback by their swift journey. As the news reached the pce, Xiao Yunzhou was in the middle of a delicate task - changing his darling daughter Chu Chu''s diaper. "!" Xiao Yunzhou frowned, "Didn''t I ask him to wait? The people of Wu Yun Country are really impatient." Xiao Yunzhou was overwhelmed, "Later, I''ll see him. You all entertain him first, can''t you see I''m busy?" Changing Chu Chu''s diaper was thetest task Xiao Yunzhou wanted to do. But Concubine Liu wouldn''t allow it, "Emperor, you''ve never done this before, it''s better not to bother. Attending to state affairs is more important." Xiao Yunzhou was annoyed. His daughter, the reincarnation of a fairy, once said that to enhance intelligence, one cannot just use their brain, they must also expand their practical skills. He wasn''t interested in any other hands-on tasks, but when it came to serving his fairy-reincarnated daughter, he found everything enjoyable. He had already learned how to feed Chu Chu water, so why couldn''t he change a diaper now? But Concubine Liu simply wouldn''t agree, fearing his clumsiness and rough handling. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, and with great annoyance, turned around to attend to the government documents. The officials from the Ministry of Rites were stunned. Is this what the emperor is like behind closed doors? No, the imperial study room door wasn''t even closed! "What are you looking at!" Xiao Yunzhou looked up to see the official still lingering, "Haven''t you seen a father doting on his daughter? Go on! Attend to your duties!" Xiao Yunzhou, who had failed to spend his rest time with Chu Chu, was a bit irritable. The official from the Ministry of Rites promptly excused himself, startled. ¡¾Oh, the Khan of Wu Yun Country has arrived in Jing Country.¡¿ Chu Chu was still pondering. ¡¾Ah, I remember in the novel, after the Khan of Wu Yun Country fell out with Jing Country, he established diplomatic rtions with Chu State.¡¿ ¡¾The King of Chu discovered the Khan of Wu Yun Country''s secret, and took advantage of the situation to gain his favor.¡¿ Hmm? A secret? Xiao Yunzhou immediately perked up his ears. Chu Chu''s thoughts quickly shifted to the content of the novel. ¡¾The Khan of Wu Yun Country must sleep in absolute silence and darkness at night.¡¿ ¡¾Anyone in the same room must be asleep before he can fall asleep.¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou widened his eyes. So the Khan had this quirk? It''s a good thing he''s the Khan. Otherwise, if he were born in a civilian family, with several brothers in one room, who would put up with him? ¡¾If the Khan of Wu Yun Country can''t sleep, he''ll be grumpy the next day.¡¿ ¡¾But if he sleeps soundly until dawn, his mood the next day will be splendid, making him easy to win over.¡¿ ¡¾The King of Chu took advantage of this, andter became a close ally of the Khan.¡¿ "!" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help butugh and cry at the same time. This Khan was too easy to deceive. Immediately, Xiao Yunzhou got up from his seat, walked out of the imperial study room, and called out to the official from the Ministry of Rites who was halfway out the door. "You must treat Sanda Khan well." "Yes, they must be exhausted from their long journey here and need a good rest." "For the next few days, ensure that the guesthouse is quiet, with less movement at night, so Sanda Khan and his children can rest well." * "The Khan of Wu Yun Country took his princes to Jing Country?" The King of Chu was astonished when he heard the news. "Yes, ording to the spies, Xiao Yunzhou sent him a letter saying there''s a way to eradicate smallpox." "Huh?" The King of Chu burst intoughter upon hearing this, "What a boast! Jing Country is too naive. Of all things to brag about, they chose this!" "Exactly, Xiao Yunzhou probably won''t be able to pull this off. Our spies reported that Xiao Yunzhou hasn''t even met Sanda Khan, and has left Sanda in the guest house for three days." "Hahaha, Xiao Yunzhou will soon know what kind of rage awaits him!" Unable to contain hisughter, the King of Chu added, "Sanda has had trouble sleeping in recent years. After his tiring journey to Jing Country, his anger will surely reach the sky if things don''t go as nned." "By then, it will be impossible for them not to sever ties with Jing Country!" The excited King of Chu leaned forward, "Keep a close eye on our spies there, and report back immediately at any news." The royal pce of Chu State was already looking forward to the early celebration. Meanwhile, Sanda, the Khan of Wu Yun Country who was staying at the guest house, finally received an invitation from Xiao Yunzhou to visit the pce after three days. The Ministry of Rites sent a special envoy to escort them to the pce, offering the highest level of treatment for neighboring nations. In order to avoid any trouble from the masses, guards were stationed on the streets, temporarily prohibiting pedestrian traffic. Yet even with the guards, there were spectators who came to see the spectacle, filling the area. "So these are the nomads we trade with?" "Eh, their clothes are really strange." "They''re so tall." "What are they here for? It looks like they are here to make amends. They won''t start a fight, right?" "Of course not, they are our guests. Surely, our nations have a good rtionship!" The people of Jing Country were joyfully watching from behind the guards. "Hmph, not necessarily!" Amidst the cheerful crowd of Jing Country, a in-looking man dressed in grey suddenly threw a wet nket on the mood. His ent was heavy, not like those from Jing City. His speech could easily give him away. However, seeing that he was dressed as a peddler, no one doubted him, "How is it not certain?" "Our Jing Country is bing more and more hopeful, other neighbouring countries are visiting us. Isn''t that a sign of good rtions?" An old man nearby couldn''t help but retort at this grey-clothed outsider. This grey-clothed man was none other than a spy from Chu State. "Old man, we left the guests at the guest house for four days before receiving them, can the rtionship be good?" The grey-clothed man smirked. The spy from Chu State, this grey-clothed man, was more than happy to stir up fear among the people of Jing Country. He blended in with the crowd, not afraid of causing trouble, and huffed, "Whether the rtionship is good or not, you have to see the expression of the Khan of Wu Yun Country." After all, the news Chu State''s intelligencework had received these days was all unfavorable to Jing Country. "Which eye of yours saw Khan of Wu Yun Country being happy?" The Chu State spy had already nned how to write today''s report back to Chu State! "The Khan of Wu Yun Country feels that he has been slighted and is furious!" The spy from Chu State couldn''t help butugh as he spoke. But as soon as he finished speaking, he was spat on by the old man next to him! "Pah¡ªNonsense, the Khan is clearly smiling like a blooming flower! I''ve lived so long, and I''ve never seen an emperor smile like this! What''s this about fury? Are you blind?" "???" The spy from Chu State was stunned, what? Impossible! Sanda, the Khan of Wu Yun Country, had been sleeping poorly for several days, and had been snubbed by Xiao Yunzhou at the guest house. He must be furious. But when the spy from the Chu State looked up at the procession from the Wu Yun Country, he was stunned. There, Sanda Khan, who before had heavy dark circles under his eyes and appeared somewhat irritable from apparentck of sleep during the journey, now looked radiant and lively, as if he had slept soundly for three days and three nights! How could that be possible? Was this the same Sanda Khan who had trouble sleeping? "Let''s go. I can''t wait to see your country''s sessful method for treating smallpox," Sanda Khan said, as if a spring breeze had brushed his face. "If it''s true, then the emperor of your country would be considered my elder brother!" "¡­?!" The spy from the Chu State, hearing this sentence as the procession passed by, was thrown into chaos by the wind. How was thispletely different from the information they had received in the Chu State? How was he going to write a letter to the King of Chu about this? Not only had the Wu Yun Country not broken off rtions with the Jing Country, but they were about to start calling the Jing Country their ''brother''?! Chapter 131 Chapter 131 Sanda Khan had never slept so well outside before. Refreshed and invigorated - that was his current state. "Sanda Khan, please follow me," said Wei Zheng, personallying to wee Sanda at the Zhengyang Gate of the imperial pce. Sanda didn''t know who Wei Zheng was, but after three consecutive days of satisfying sleep in a foreignnd, everyone looked agreeable to him at the moment. Even the imperial pce of Jing Country felt weing. "Did you sleep well, little brother Sanda?" Xiao Yunzhou quickly emerged from the imperial study. Today, he wasn''t even wearing his formal dragon robe but a in brown home robe. It was as if he wasn''t receiving the ruler of a neighboring country during the morning court session, but rather chatting with a neighbor after just returning from nting melons in the fields! Not only was Wu Yun Country''s Khan Sanda stunned, but the two ministers who apanied him were also dumbfounded. "?" The official from the Ministry of Rites who apanied the Wu Yun people all the way was equally bewildered. Fucha Prime Minister and Shen Mian, The Vice Minister, both had twitching mouths. They desperately wanted to stuff Emperor Xiao Yunzhou back into the imperial study and make hime out again! What was this? What was he wearing to meet the neighboring country''s Khan? Was this still an emperor? If you took him to the street and said he was a peddler, people would believe it! But while Fucha Prime Minister and Shen Mian, The Vice Minister were in despair, Xiao Yunzhou, in his in clothes, felt no shame but rather pride. He walked affectionately towards Sanda. He even tried to put his arm around Sanda''s shoulder, but his eyebrow twitched, and his hand didn''t make it. ¡¾Wow, Sanda often takes off his Khan''s robe in his royal tent and calls princes and even officials ''brother''!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts came from behind the screen next to the imperial study. ¡¾Father Emperor''s in clothes today suit this Khan''s taste perfectly.¡¿ ¡¾Sanda dislikesplexity and finds rituals bothersome.¡¿ ¡¾In his youth, Sanda even fell asleep during morning court sessions, even less reliable than Father Emperor.¡¿ "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched, and he gritted his teeth to awkwardly ce his hand on Sanda''s shoulder, meeting him for the first time. Sure enough, Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts came through again. ¡¾This Khan Sanda''s brothers couldn''t survive, dying from smallpox and wars, so every time Sanda gets drunk, he loves it when people call him ''little brother''!¡¿ ¡¾Sanda''s unknown secret, besides difficulty falling asleep, is that in the still of the night, he misses his brothers and wishes to return to the days when they looked after him!¡¿ ¡¾In fact, if it weren''t for his bloodline and protecting his wife and children, he wouldn''t want to be a Khan at all! He just wants to be an ordinary person, lying down and enjoying life!¡¿ "!" Xiao Yunzhou was greatly surprised. ¡¾Oh my, Father Emperor calling him ''little brother'', haha, Sanda must be so happy inside.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu muttered behind the screen in the imperial study, ¡¾After all, usually in Wu Yun Country, although he forces those princes and ministers to call him ''brother'' when drunk, they still fear him and don''t dare to, they''re not sincere.¡¿ "...!" Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth. Everything could go wrong, but the reincarnated fairy, the little princess, couldn''t be wrong. He ced his left hand stiffly on the shoulder of the grasnd king with formidable fighting strength, feeling the rock-hard muscles that could probably snap his arm in half. Goodness gracious. This Sanda was half a head taller than him, the Jing Country Emperor, and his shoulders were even broader. He looked older than him, yet he dreamed of being a little brother! Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth, not daring to look at the expression of Sanda, the grasnd king. He coughed and reached out to Wei Zheng, "Bring the strongest wine to treat our best brother of Jing Country!" "Little brother Sanda, I hear you''re three years younger. You don''t mind me calling you ''little brother Sanda'', do you?" Xiao Yunzhou smiled stiffly. "To be honest, I had an imperial brother, also three years younger than me, but he fell ill and died young. I can only see him in my dreams, s." Xiao Yunzhou''s expression turned bitter when he mentioned his deceased brother. In earlier years, during the previous emperor''s time, several princes didn''t make it to adulthood. "Today, seeing you, I don''t know why, but I thought of my younger brother from childhood. I couldn''t help but call you ''little brother'' in the moment." "!" The Minister of Rites swayed upon hearing this. Chancellor Fu Cha and Shen Mian, The Vice Minister both turned pale. The emperor was really bringing honor to Jing Country, calling the Khan ''little brother'' at first meeting! And saying Sanda was like his early-deceased imperial brother! Unbelievable. If the emperor couldn''t speak properly, he shouldn''t speak at all. Was he cursing the Khan to die early, or what? Chancellor Fu Cha, being older, felt he could barely stand! What joke was this? Did the emperor think no one had seen his real brother? How was Sanda like his imperial brother? Sanda was dark-skinned, tall and strong, his skin often tanned on the grasnds, with quite a few wrinkles. He looked more like Xiao Yunzhou''s well-preserved father! Chancellor Fu Cha felt that today, Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t just crazy, but delirious! But while Chancellor Fu Cha was cursing inwardly, thinking of how to drag the emperor away and advise him privately, he heard a heartyugh erupting from Sanda''s chest. "Hahaha! I always thought Jing Country was bureaucratic with too many rules, but I didn''t expect you, elder brother Xiao, to be so straightforward and direct! Very much like my grasnd people''s temperament!" "To be honest with elder brother Xiao," Sandaughed heartily, then a rare gloom passed over his face, "I too lost many imperial brothers in my early years." "It''s been a long time since anyone called me ''little brother''. s, I can only hear it in my dreams." A hint of sorrow shed across Sanda''s aged, tall, and strong face. "But today, I''m very happy. I heard it again." "..." "...!" Chancellor Fu Cha, Shen Mian, The Vice Minister, and the official from the Ministry of Rites were all stunned. They suspected that Sanda, the grasnd king, was being sarcastic, mocking their emperor Xiao Yunzhou for his initial provocation. You say I''m your early-deceased imperial brother. Fine, then you''re my early-deceased elder brother! In terms of curses, who the hell would lose! But just as they had these suspicions, they realized something was off. Not only was there no anger on Sanda''s face, but he was smiling and started to undo theplex and heavy gold ornaments of the Wu Yun Khan on his chest with his bare hands! "Since elder brother Xiao, you meet me in in clothes, so straightforward, it would seem pretentious if I remain formal." "Before we walk out this door, let''s go by age!" Sanda''s heartyughter didn''t stop even as he entered the imperial study. "!" Chancellor Fu Cha, Shen Mian, The Vice Minister, and the Minister of Rites stared wide-eyed. They remained outside the imperial study for a long while, unable to follow. Were all grasnd people so... naive? "Uh, your Jing Country Emperor also has this habit?" One of the apanying ministers from Wu Yun Country couldn''t help but ask Shen Mian, The Vice Minister in a low voice. Shen Mian was momentarily taken aback. "Huh?" The minister from Wu Yun Country looked at him with a sense of shared suffering. "Ah, it''s this habit of calling everyone ''brother'' that''s the problem. Our Khan has gotten worse over the years, and I see your Emperor is the same." "...!" Shen Mian opened his mouth, but ultimately closed it. Chancellor Fu Cha, who was eavesdropping, felt his old eyes quiver. So, the Emperor wasn''t going mad; he had known all along that the Sanda from the grasnds was like this? ¡¾Hehe, not bad. Sanda''s affection for his Emperor Dad has increased by 1.3%.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu, hidden behind the screen in the imperial study, thought gleefully. "??" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned, looking towards the beaming Sanda. Affection increase by only one-hundredth? "Brother Xiao, let me be frank." Sanda quickly took a seat in the grand chair of the imperial study. There was a smile on his face, but it didn''t reach his eyes. "Just because I call you ''elder brother'' doesn''t mean Wu Yun Country submits to Jing Country." "However, this time, I''vee to Jing Country with a sincere desire to discuss matters of smallpox and the bank." Bank? Xiao Yunzhou was somewhat surprised. The little princess hadn''t mentioned anything about a bank. But he nodded, looking at Sanda, the muscr King of the Grasnds, now dressed in a simple robe. "I invited Brother Sanda here today precisely because I want you to personally witness my princes receiving the smallpox inoction." "That is, the preventive method for smallpox." Sanda had already decided that even if he personally liked the Emperor of Jing Country for his generosity, if Jing Country looked down on Wu Yun Country and truly treated them as little brothers, he would turn and leave immediately. But unexpectedly, Xiao Yunzhou''s words left the King of the Grasnds, Sanda, stunned. "What? You asked me toe today to watch your princes get inocted, Brother Xiao?" Before Xiao Yunzhou could speak, Wei Zheng beside him eagerly interjected with a smile, "Our Emperor sincerely wishes to befriend Wu Yun Country. The smallpox prevention method has only been tested for a short while. In case there are risks, we let our Jing Country princes try it first." "Since I call myself your elder brother, naturally I can''t let my younger brother bear the risk," Xiao Yunzhou smiled. "!" Sanda was struck speechless, unable to utter a sound for a long time. How long had it been? No one had shielded him from the wind and rain... He had always been the one at the forefront of everything. Sanda felt his eyes grow hot. ¡¾Wow, Sanda Khan''s affection for his Emperor Dad is skyrocketing...¡¿ Xiao Chuchu eximed from behind the screen, her ears ringing from the system''s announcement. ¡¾Ah, the affection level won''t stop rising!¡¿ Chapter 132 Chapter 132 All princes were being varited, and not only the empress, but even the empress dowager was very anxious. Everyone had worshipped the Smallpox Goddess, and when Sanda entered the specially enclosed area for varition, seeing the anxiety of the women, he was even more moved. "This... haven''t they tried it with children from outside the pce before?" Xiao Yunzhou shook his head, "Do not impose on others what you do not desire for yourself. If we are to extend this to all under Heaven, it is only natural that we start from my Jing Country pce." Sanda''s chest swelled with emotion, looking at the thin physique of the Jing Country man Xiao Yunzhou, who was no taller than his own eldest son, he suddenly felt a surge of reliability! Who would have thought? This sense of security, before only his elder brother had ever given him. On the grasnds during battles and hunts, his elder brother had always charged ahead of him, taking on the dangers himself. If one were to say that the brotherly address from earlier in the imperial study room still had an air of courtesy and insincerity, then this short-statured Jing Country emperor Xiao Yunzhou truly reminded him of his elder brother now! "Previously, a batch of pce maids of suitable age had already attempted the varition within the pce. Those who underwent the trial were allowed to rest outside the pce for ten days, and received an additional two taels of silver." Xiao Yunzhou turned to exin to Sanda, "The pce maids who underwent the trial previously were all sessful." Sanda''s expression grewplex. In fact, when he learned of the varition method, that it involved infecting the child with the disease, he did not want his own children to try it. He dared not risk it, for if they contracted smallpox, the chances of sessful treatment were only sixty percent. But now, seeing that even the Jing Country princes were being inocted, he was somewhat moved. [Woo, my brother is really bold! The eldest prince''s face turned pale when he saw the imperial physiciane to inocte him, and his hands were trembling.] Xiao Chuchu, held by Concubine Liu, seized the opportunity before the imperial physician started to take another look at her brother Cheng Qian. With a single nce, she saw that among the princes, her own brother was the bravest. [My brother is so brave!] Xiao Yunzhou had originally been chatting with Sanda, boasting about how he had inspired the imperial physicians with the idea of varition. Hearing his daughter''s inner voice, he immediately turned to look at the row of sons. Sure enough, Xiao Yunzhou immediately noticed that among his sons, only Cheng Qian remainedposed, as if varition was merely a small matter. In contrast, the eldest prince''s face was as white as paper, sweating profusely. The other sons, the third and fourth princes, were also gritting their teeth, extremely anxious. There was no mistaking it, whenpared, the differences in courage were clear. The imperial physician had not even begun yet, merely inquiring about the princes'' recent diets and health conditions, and still needing to check their pulses before proceeding with the varition. It was still early. Yet the sons were already like this? Only Cheng Qian had some courage? Xiao Yunzhou''s brows twitched. "Hm? Old brother Xiao, your youngest son is not to be underestimated in the future!" The grasnd king Sanda also noticed Cheng Qian''s bravery and did not hesitate to praise him. Xiao Yunzhou immediately turned his worries into joy, beaming. Indeed, did they not see who Cheng Qian''s elder brother was? He was the blood brother of a reincarnated celestial being. "Not bad, not bad. He''s just mature for his age and decent at his studies. As for martial arts, he''s far behind the boys from the grasnds." Xiao Yunzhou smiled. Sanda waved his hand, "Aye, that''s not how you put it. Physical prowess can be trained, but at such a young age, to have a courageous spirit is rare." Cheng Qian''s face flushed red from the praise. Behind him, however, Little Jiu stared warily with narrowed eyes at the tall and imposing Sanda. "Hm? This pce attendant..." Sanda had even noticed Little Jiu''s sharp gaze towards him. "Ahem." Xiao Yunzhou nced over, immediately breaking into a sweat. He had forgotten that the assassin was also among his sons. "Let''s go outside and wait." Sanda was led away by Xiao Yunzhou, his expression changing subtly. The one standing behind that prince must definitely be a master! He had always thought that Jing Country was not adept at martial arts, but today''s visit made him realize that the Jing Country pce also had its share of hidden dragons and crouching tigers. Even amon prince had such a formidable master behind him, capable of posing a threat to Sanda himself. Jing Country truly excelled in both civil and martial arts! Sanda felt that this trip had not been in vain, as he had obtained important information. [Hm? For no apparent reason, Sanda''s favorability towards the imperial father increased by 5%.] Xiao Chuchu, held by Concubine Liu, had just finished reminding Cheng Qian when she suddenly received the system notification about the change in favorability. [It seems thepletion of the smallpox mission is not far off.] Xiao Chuchu felt relieved. Xiao Yunzhou secretly rejoiced, but soon became concerned again about whether his sons would safely endure the varition. "During the previous varition of pce maids, two days of observation were also required. This time, for the princes'' varition, I will also observe a vegetarian diet during those two days." Xiao Yunzhou instructed Wei Zheng. He also reminded Concubine Liu, "Don''t let the little princess go over there for now. She''s still too young for varition, we can''t risk her contracting it from her brothers." His worried expression was not feigned, and Sanda could see it clearly. For the sake of Wu Yun Country, Jing Country was truly willing to put their princes at risk. For an emperor like Xiao Yunzhou to go to such lengths, Sanda was deeply moved. "Jing Country''s sincerity, Wu Yun Country will never forget." Sanda ced his right hand over his chest and performed a solemn national ceremonial gesture towards Xiao Yunzhou. "Before the results of your princes'' varition, how about we discuss the matter of the banks first, Old Brother Xiao?" Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. "Would it be possible for my Wu Yun Country people to deposit silver in your Jing Country banks?" Sanda earnestly asked. Originally, due to insufficient trust, Wu Yun Country had only nned to deposit sheep and horses in the banks. But now, Sanda felt that there could be no ruler more benevolent than Xiao Yunzhou! All under Heaven might cheat the grasnd people of their money, but Xiao Yunzhou would not. He was a sincere ruler willing to let his own children take risks first! "If Jing Country is willing, I would like to deposit the silver meant for purchasing grain next year from Wu Yun Country in advance in your Jing Country." Sanda spoke. [Oh my, is this an early form of foreign exchange?] [Oh my, the imperial father has sessfully won over Sanda, and we have received foreign exchange from a neighboring country!] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice was filled with joy. [Good, we''ll need quite a bit of silver for the military down jackets and instant noodles recently. We can use Wu Yun Country''s silver first!] "!" Xiao Yunzhou almost burst outughing from the sheer effort it took to contain himself. Even the previous emperor probably couldn''t have imagined this happening? In his generation, Jing Country''s national treasury could actually receive silver from another country! Haha¡ªcough! Xiao Yunzhou nearly choked himself from holding it in, quickly regaining hisposure as he grasped Sanda''s burly arm. "Good brother, there''s no problem if you want to deposit money in Jing Country." "Then the interest..." Sanda''s face brightened but he quickly became anxious again, "Should be the same as for the citizens of Jing Country, right? I''ve heard that the interest rate for a deposit of 10 is 2, it can''t be lower than for the citizens of Jing Country." Xiao Yunzhou let out a hiss, but heard Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts during his hesitation. [No problem.] [Forrge deposits, the bank''s VIP customers can even get a more favorable interest rate.] Huh? What was that? But Xiao Yunzhou seemed to understand and smiled, nodding repeatedly at Sanda, "No problem, it will be the same as in our Jing Country!" "If you deposit a great deal of money in the future, I can give you an even higher interest rate." Sanda paused, feeling a warm flow washing over his heart. Brother, the emperor of Jing Country is such a good brother! "Big brother, when youe to the grasnds, you must stay in your younger brother''s imperial tent!" * "How was it? Meeting for the first time, did Sanda lose his temper and walk away without giving Xiao Yunzhou any face?" The King of Chu looked expectantly when the servant came to report. But he quickly saw the servant''s constipated, stiff expression. "Uh... no." "Huh?" The King of Chu didn''t believe it. "Tell me carefully what happened." The servant sighed and stuttered, "Before entering the pce of Jing Country, Sanda was shouting in the street that if Xiao Yunzhou really researched a cure for smallpox, he would call Xiao Yunzhou brother." The King of Chu roared withughter, "Xiao Yunzhou must have failed, there were still cases of smallpox in Jing Country two months ago!" "Yes, indeed, my insider information said that on that day, Sanda left the pce of Jing Country before the cure for smallpox was proven." "Just as I thought!" The King of Chu could barely contain hisughter. But as soon as he said that, he heard the servant clear his throat lightly. "However, when Sanda returned to the embassy that day, he kept telling the ministers of Wu Yun Country around him that from then on, the emperor of Jing Country would be his elder brother!" "???" Chapter 133 Chapter 133 The princes, including Cheng Qian, were undergoing smallpox inoction, and no outsiders were allowed in. Not even their mothers could visit, despite their concern. The Imperial Physician said it was to prevent peopleing and going, bringing in harmful influences, and disturbing the patients'' rest. So, this morning at the Cining Pce, the concubines came to pay their respects. From the Empress Dowager to the Empress, almost everyone had visible dark circles under their eyes. Today was the second day of the inoction. Everyone was a bit worried. "You''re the bravest, Concubine Liu. Cheng Qian takes after you," the Empress Dowager, who hadn''t slept wellst night, nced at Concubine Liu and noticed that among the group, she seemed the most at ease. Concubine Liu looked much the same as before, her skin radiant and her eyes bright. She clearly hadn''t lost sleep over worry. "I couldn''t help myselfst night. I sent someone to Qianxi No.5 Residence to inquire several times, oh dear," the Empress Dowager fretted over her grandsons'' inoction. "The Empress did too, right?" As she spoke, the Empress Dowager nced at the Empress beside her, noticing her dispirited demeanor. Her face was heavily powdered to conceal her pallor, and her eyes were filled with anxiety. "Think about it, both myself and you, Empress, should learn from Concubine Liu," the Empress Dowager sighed. "A mother must be strong. We need to stay calm in front of the children." Empress Tong seemed on the verge of speaking but held back. Consort Li, who also hadn''t slept all night worrying about the Fourth Prince, looked equally troubled. How could they stay calm? It was smallpox, after all. The Imperial Physicians had only briefly tested it on the young eunuchs before using it on their sons. Who knew if there might be unforeseen consequences? "When the Former Emperor was alive, he always said, if we adults look like we''re worried sick, how will the children feel?" The Empress Dowager, seeing Concubine Liu''sposure, felt she had the Former Emperor''s spirit. "Even during times of war, the Former Emperor kept his joys and worries from showing on his face. Back then, the Emperor, still a Crown Prince, continued his studies undisturbed," the Empress Dowager looked at Concubine Liu with admiration. "Concubine Liu, your calmness has rubbed off on Cheng Qian. He doesn''t seem to fear the inoction. Yesterday, I noticed he was the bravest of all. Well done," the Empress Dowager had been observing each grandson''s reaction. Thisment made the Empress and Consort Li restless. "Children are naturally bold. Our anxiety can easily affect them," the Empress Dowager also noticed that her eldest grandson wasn''t easily frightened. Smallpox was terrifying. But a ruler of a nation might face even more, like the assassination attempt by the remnants of the Earth and Moon Sect from the previous dynasty. Threats from neighboring countries, internal strife in Jing Country, natural disasters... As she spoke, the Empress Dowager had her maid reward Concubine Liu, "Once this smallpox matter is over, we should hold your investiture ceremony as a consort." "It''s all the Emperor''s fault, doing this and that, never giving the Ministry of Rites time." As Concubine Liu was thinking of how to respond, the Empress Dowager affectionately took her hand, "I''m a mother too. I know there''s no mother who doesn''t care for her child. You must rely on forbearance, keeping your concerns and worries hidden in your heart." Concubine Liu opened her mouth. Before she could speak, her precious little princess, Xiao Chuchu, burst intoughter in her wet nurse''s arms. ¡¾Oh my, my brother is teaching the Sixth Prince to read, haha! The Sixth Prince''s face is all puffy, he says his arm hurts and he feels awful all over. He says even the young eunuchs who got inocted get ten days of rest...¡¿ ¡¾The Sixth Prince refuses to read, but Jiu Xiao is eating a meat pie in front of him.¡¿ ¡¾The Sixth Prince just jumps up with a yelp, his inocted arm doesn''t hurt anymore. It''s so funny, haha!¡¿ Xiao Chuchu, held by her wet nurse, was brought to the Cining Pce today. But in the Cining Pce, because the Empress Dowager was worried about her grandsons, the other concubines without princes didn''t dare show a smile in front of her. They all wore gloomy faces. Xiao Chuchu found it terribly boring. She''d long since tired of listening to their worries. Just likest night before bed, bored, she used her points to watch the live broadcast from her big brother''s side at Qianxi No.5 Residence. ¡¾Hehe, the Sixth Prince can''tpete with Jiu Xiao at all.¡¿ ¡¾The meat pie''s gone, he''s crying now, gaga. My brother quickly sends for the kitchen to prepare more, lest his cries reach the Imperial Physicians and they think something''s wrong.¡¿ ¡¾My brother''s face is so embarrassed. It''s his first time making his little brother cry, he''s totally at a loss~¡¿ Xiao Chuchu''s joyful thoughts were heard in real-time by Concubine Liu. "How do you manage to stay so calm, Concubine Liu?" the Empress Dowager pondered, then asked curiously, "I heard from the matrons that you didn''t send anyone to check on Cheng Qian''s condition yesterday?" This... Under the Empress Dowager''s praise, Concubine Liu''s gaze flickered. She hadn''t sent anyone to inquire. Because ever since Cheng Qian''s inoction, her daughter had... well, in celestial terms, it would be called ''live streaming'' her son''s and the other princes'' situations to her all night. She even knew thatst night, Cheng Qian had a good appetite, eating a whole big pork meatball, and insisted on getting up to write despite Xiao Luzi''s advice. Thinking about it made Concubine Liu feel a bit guilty. Her son was growing up. As his mother, prying into every detail of his life didn''t seem quite right. But her precious daughter''s thoughts, babbling about her brother''s affairs, had gone on for half the night... It was hard not to listen. Thinking this, Concubine Liu looked modestly at the Empress Dowager, "I was indeed worried." "But as Mother said, I thought the children might be frightened, so I didn''t send anyone." "When I was little, I didn''t want to learn embroidery and even thought catching a cold or fever was a good thing because I could ck off." The Empress Dowager was taken aback, thenughed heartily, "You were a clever little thing. Good, the princes of Jing Country should have such a mindset. Even minor ailments are no big deal." The Empress Dowager was extremely pleased with Concubine Liu. In her wet nurse''s arms, Xiao Chuchu''s attention was briefly diverted by the Empress Dowager''sughter, but she quickly refocused on the system''s broadcast. Because of the inoction, the princes could skip their studies for ten days. Today was the second day, and each prince was idle, either worried, afraid of death, or indulging in rest, each with their own way of eating, drinking, or ying. Xiao Chuchu found this far more interesting than staring at the ceiling or watching the tedious concubines fawning over the Empress Dowager. Every time she came to pay respects at the Cining Pce, she felt like a corporate employee forced into an early morning meeting with the boss. It was all hierarchy, little familial warmth. It wasn''t as intimate as when the Empress Dowager spoke one-on-one with her mother. Thinking this, Xiao Chuchu watched in the system''s broadcast as her own brother, Cheng Qian, ignored Xiao Luzi''s advice again and got up to practice calligraphy. ¡¾Oh, my brother just can''t sit still.¡¿ Xiao Chuchu shook her head. ¡¾But this is good. Better to find something to distract yourself than lie there worrying about this and that, fearing the virus.¡¿ [Don''t overwork yourself, I''m a little worried that my brother might get exhausted and have a weakened immune system, leading to e or even a fever.] Concubine Liu was smiling at The Empress Dowager, but quickly stopped when she heard her daughter''s thoughts. Indeed. Why was Cheng Qian practicing calligraphy again? There''s no need to rush when ites to self-improvement. [My brother is probably just bored.] Xiao Chuchu frowned. She had watched the livestream overnight and in the morning, and although she had been asleep most of the time, every time she opened her eyes and looked at her brother, she realized there weren''t many entertainment activities at the Qianxi No.5 Residence. In ancient times, people would read books and practice calligraphy, and princes in the pce would at most read novels or go horseback riding. There weren''t any anime or video games. [Huh?] Xiao Chuchu''s mind wandered, and then her eyes suddenly lit up. [Oh, it would be great if we had board games!] Concubine Liu was taken aback. [Flying chess, jumping chess, Monopoly... Werewolf...] Concubine Liu was momentarily stunned by her daughter''s incessant rambling about the ''Monopoly game'' in her thoughts! Chapter 134 Chapter 134 Board game, Monopoly? Although Liu Chaniang had given birth to a child and be a mother, she was not yet thirty years old and still very young. Upon hearing her daughter''s chatter about board games, Liu Chaniang''s eyes lit up, and she could barely sit still. "If only we had a board game now, I could let my brother y it during his smallpox inoction period." "He wouldn''t have to always think about reading and writing, it''s too exhausting to overwork his brain." Xiao Chuchu thought about various board games and still missed Monopoly the most. She hadn''t yed this old-fashioned game for a long time herself. "Monopoly is so much more interesting than the leaf game the consorts y in the pce." "The leaf game makes my head spin, I still don''t understand it~" Liu Chaniang deeply agreed with her daughter''s words. She didn''t like the leaf game either, but the Empress Dowager loved it. When there was nothing else to do, the Empress Dowager would always drag the Empress or other consorts to y it all afternoon. Liu Chaniang always avoided the Cining Pce during this time, for fear of being caught to y cards. Could it be that the board game her daughter mentioned, this Monopoly thing, was also made of small paper cards like the leaf game? "No, I have to recall how the rules of this Monopoly are set. When I grow up, I''ll have to recreate it." Xiao Chuchu was already imagining it. "I want to y with Mother, Aunt Min, my brother, and even my wet nurse!" "Hmm, I think each yer starts with ten thousand or twenty thousand in money." "The game currency has many denominations, from as little as ten yuan to as much as five thousand yuan." Liu Chaniang stared wide-eyed. This game had such precise silver values? "Then there are different properties andnds, with varying prices." "You roll the dice, and if yound on an unowned property, you can choose whether to buy it or not. If yound on someone else''s property, you have to pay rent..." "In the end, whoever has the most money wins. Hehe, thinking about it this way, making this board game isn''t hard at all." "Alright, I''m tired," said the Empress Dowager, who hadn''t slept much all night due to worry and was ready to dismiss everyone. "You all must be exhausted too, go back and rest." Liu Chaniang hurriedly stood up. As she took her leave, she was already thinking about whether to make her daughter''s ''Monopoly'' board with paper or some other material! This game sounded so interesting. Just listening to her daughter talk about it, Liu Chaniang felt a fresh sense of ''ying house.'' But it was more meaningful than ying house. It required thinking, and thepetition to see who had the most money truly matched the current prosperous trend in Jing Country, from the Ministry of Revenue to themon people, everyone striving towards wealth! As Liu Chaniang thought about it, her eyes shone brightly. "Hmph, some people really know how to put on a show." "How heartless, not even caring about her own son!" Consort Li and the other consorts, jealous that Liu Chaniang was praised by the Empress Dowager, started making snide remarks as soon as they left the Cining Pce. This time, even the Empress didn''t remain neutral. She gave Liu Chaniang a cold look before quickly getting into her pnquin. "Hmph, if you have the guts, why don''t you say it in front of the Empress Dowager?" Consort Min stepped directly in front of Liu Chaniang andshed out at Consort Li. Just as Consort Li was about to re up, Liu Chaniang stopped her. "Sister Min, let''s hurry back. I have something important to do." "???" Consort Li looked at Liu Chaniang in disbelief, seeing that she didn''t even nce her way. "What important thing do you have? Pretending, you''re just pretending! Do you think you''re the Prime Minister?!" Consort Li was fuming. She had never been so ignored before, feeling like her punch hadnded on cotton. But Liu Chaniang was truly in a hurry, pulling Consort Min along as she left. All the way back to the Donghua Pce, Consort Min sighed and stomped her feet for not having scolded Consort Li more. "Chaniang, you''re just too kind. You shouldn''t be so kindhearted. Pulling me back so early, you should have let me, who usually eats vegetarian and chants sutras, mild as a chrysanthemum, scold Consort Li today!" Consort Min, unable to vent, now paced around in distress. It couldn''t be helped; her son, the sixth prince Cheng Shan, was also undergoing smallpox inoction this time. Consort Min was equally worried about her son. Worry plus displeasure made her want to find someone to vent on, and Consort Li had just stumbled into her path! How dare she scold her beloved Chaniang! "No, I''m stifled now. Chaniang, you have to take responsibility," Consort Min pounded her chest. Even Xiao Chuchu was amused, chuckling. Liu Chaniang was both amused and exasperated. "Alright, alright, I''ll take responsibility. I was just about to bring out the leaf cards. I originally nned to send them to Cheng Qian and Cheng Shan to y, but now I might as well take them out for you to y first." "Hmm?" Xiao Chuchu was surprised with a "yee," realizing her mother had the same idea. "Yes, the study room won''t have sses for ten days anyway. They''re all restless children, they should indeed rx and y a bit." "But the leaf cards..." Xiao Chuchu''s little eyebrows furrowed; she really didn''t like this leaf game. Consort Min also frowned. "Hmm? Is this the urgent matter you mentioned?" Liu Chaniang nodded. "They usually study diligently most of the time, with little rest. This smallpox inoction is a good chance for them to rx a bit." "I was also enlightened by the Empress Dowager''s words. Didn''t she say that even when children are sick, they should maintain a rxed mindset? They shouldn''t worry too much. I''ve heard the elders at home say that some people who weren''t even sick ended up getting sick from fright." "Tsk," Consort Min found this reasonable as soon as she heard it. "I''ve also heard elders say that some didn''t die from illness but died from fright. Oh, heavens forbid!" She patted her own mouth, then also became urgent. "Your Cheng Qian is quite steady, but my Cheng Shan is much more timid. We should indeed let them y a bit, lest they get scared by this smallpox inoction." Liu Chaniang immediately instructed Qiu Li, "Go find my set of leaf game cards." Consort Min, who loved martial arts, found the idea of these calction-heavy cards as mind-boggling as the leaf game. "Chaniang, are you sure Cheng Qian and Cheng Shan will like this thing the old Empress Dowager enjoys?" This was what the Empress Dowager yed for leisure when she had nothing to do! The Empress Dowager was over fifty! How could children of their age like it? It was the first time Consort Min doubted Liu Chaniang''s decision. But just as she finished speaking, she heard Liu Chaniang exim, "Oh! You''ve reminded me, Sister Min." "Huh? What?" Liu Chaniang smiled at Consort Min. "You''re right. We should modify the leaf game cards, change them into a way that children love to y." "I have an idea. How about we make a ''Who has the Most Money in Jing Country''s Bank''?" Liu Chaniang smiled. "It also happens to align with the Ministry of Revenue''s call for banks." "Sister Min, thanks to your reminder, I thought of this." Consort Min''s eyes widened. "...Ah." How did she remind her? What did she just say? She didn''t feel like she had said anything special. ["Oh my goodness! Could it be that my mother is about to invent the Jing Country version of the Monopoly board game?!"] Xiao Chuchu was so excited that her little face turned red as she cooed and babbled in her wet nurse''s arms. ["I never imagined that I''d be a witness to history today!"] ["Mother, please make it quickly! I want to y!"] In about four hours, Liu Chaniang, with the help of her pce maids and Consort Min, created ''Who Has the Most Money in Jing Country''s Bank.'' "This name is a bit hard to remember, not very catchy," the pce maid Qiu Li suggested carefully. "How about we call it ''Who is the Richest Tycoon''?" ["Holy cow!!"] Xiao Chuchu eximed in surprise. In less than half a day, by that very night, this set of cards named ''Who Has the Most Money in Jing Country''s Bank,'' also known as ''Who is the Richest Tycoon,'' was sent to the prince at the Qianxi No.5 Residence. Chapter 135 Chapter 135 After Xiao Yunzhou invited Sanda to observe the prince''s inoction against smallpox, he invited Sanda to the pce for a drink every day thereafter. In addition to bank matters, the Imperial Physicians exined all the precautions and potential risks associated with the smallpox inoction to Sanda. "So you''re saying that those who get inocted may also develop fever, and there''s a possibility of it bing severe?" Sanda frowned. But he also knew that unless the Heavenly Deity blessed them, even a minor illness could be life-threatening. Let alone smallpox? As long as they got inocted and reduced the risk of contracting smallpox by ny percent, it was already a gift from the Heavenly Deity. "I wonder how your princes are doing now, Brother. This is the third day, isn''t it?" Sanda was also very concerned. In his eyes, these princes were truly trailzers for the children of the grasnds! These children were undoubtedly little warriors. Upon hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou also looked at Wei Zheng, "Any news from the Qianxi No.5 Residence? What did the Imperial Physician say about their pulse this morning?" "The princes still seem to have some energy, their pulse..." But before Wei Zheng could finish, little Xiao Chuchu, who had been brought over early in the morning, let out a chuckle in his arms. [Of course they have energy! If it weren''t for Jiu Xiao secretly using force to snatch the ''Tycoon'' board game from my brothers yesterday, they would have wanted to y through the night!] [Outrageous! My brother was so absorbed in it. Last night, for the sake of ''Tycoon'', Cheng Shan, who usually has the heartiest appetite, didn''t even eat two bites of his dinner and was eager to keep ying.] Xiao Yunzhou red at the little girl with flushed cheeks who had just woken up in Wei Zheng''s arms. What was this thing? Tycoon? What kind of board game was that? [Hehe, when the Imperial Physician came to check their pulses today, even the Crown Prince Cheng Quan, who had been constantly worried about dying, was drawn to the ''Tycoon'' game mentioned by Cheng Shan and didn''t seem so anxious anymore.] [The Imperial Physician said that the Crown Prince''s condition was better than yesterday. The princes could go outside for a short walk and some light activity today. But they refused to leave because they all wanted to y Tycoon.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou had long known that his daughter sometimes possessed a ''celestial eye'' that allowed her to observe events happening in various ces. But at this moment, hearing her vivid description, Xiao Yunzhou was seized by curiosity. What on earth was this Tycoon board game? Even the usuallyposed and mature Cheng Qian was captivated by it, and the normally serious Crown Prince Cheng Quan was enticed as well. "The Left Censor said that the princes have basically passed the critical period safely. They can get out of bed and walk around the garden of the Qianxi No.5 Residence today." "In two more days, they should be able to leave the Qianxi No.5 Residence, and there shouldn''t be any major issues." Wei Zheng''s words indeed matched what the little princess had seen with her ''celestial eye''. Xiao Yunzhou''s heart was stirred once again by his daughter''s celestial abilities. He hurriedly suppressed the glimmer in his eyes and turned to Sanda, "Brother Sanda, would you like to join this brother of mine in visiting the princes who were inocted?" "We can wear protective cloaks and hats..." Sanda was indeed tempted, "I had the same intention!" He also wanted to see the physical condition of those who had been inocted. "No need for protection. I had it when I was young, so I''ll just take a bath afterwards if needed!" Sanda was a straightforward man. Xiao Yunzhou nodded readily, hugged his daughter to satisfy his affection, then looked sternly at Wei Zheng, "I''ll go in. You stay outside with the little princess. Don''t let her catch any illness." Xiao Yunzhou then hooked his arm around Sanda''s shoulder, and the two brothers-in-arms set off. Along the way, Xiao Yunzhou imagined countless possibilities in his mind. Tycoon... Could it be gambling? It was rather inappropriate for the princes to engage in such activities. But never mind, as long as his sons were in good health, they could indulge in ying during this special inoction period. After this, they would have to focus and diligently make up for the missed lessons in the study room. No more gambling! Gambling was ultimately a bad habit. "What kind of games do children on the grasnds usually y?" Xiao Yunzhou thought of this and looked at Sanda, "Is there anything like gambling?" If Sanda said no, then Xiao Yunzhou would consider sending someone to the Qianxi No.5 Residence with a message, instructing his sons to put away this ''Tycoon'' gambling thing! But to his surprise, Sanda let out a heartyugh, "We wrestle, shoot arrows, race horses, and if it rains, we sneak away and throw dice, as long as we don''t get caught by our fathers and elders." Xiao Yunzhou breathed a sigh of relief. Well, that was alright then, but he still prepared Sanda''s mind, "I usually discipline my sons quite strictly. These few days of inoction are just to let them rx a bit. They might engage in some inappropriate gambling revelries." "Haha, what''s the big deal? Who hasn''t been a bit wild in their youth?" Sanda smiled understandingly. But when they entered the isted inoction room in the Qianxi No.5 Residence, Xiao Yunzhou and Sanda were dumbfounded in no time. Because the young voicesing from the room were not about the frivolous gambling they had expected, but rather¡ª "Fifth Brother, you''ve arrived in Liucheng, Jingzhou. Do you want to buy this piece ofnd? The price is two thousand taels." "Hmm, I''ll buy it." "Okay, your turn, Sixth Brother." "Oh no..." Sixth Prince Cheng Shan''s exmation soon followed, "I''ve reached the joint market between the Wu Yun Country and the Jing Country! I need to sell rice. Hehehe, rice is in high demand, quick, Xiao Luzi, help me trade!" Sanda and Xiao Yunzhou at the door: "...!" They were stunned. What were they ying? How could there be cities and joint markets between countries? But before they could ponder further, themotion inside continued. "Oh, I''ve made two thousand taels, hahaha, I have money to buynd again." Sixth Prince Cheng Shanughed happily. "Alright, it''s my turn to move now. Step aside, Sixth Brother." "Wait, I haven''t finished yet. Don''t rush, Seventh Brother," Sixth Prince Cheng Shan protested clearly. "Let me think, I just made two thousand taels. I should buy horses too since winter ising. Horses should be cheap now~" At this point, even Xiao Luzi''s voice sounded urgent, "Sixth Prince, if you do that, you won''t have money to invest innd next round." "Umm... then let me buy horses for five hundred taels. Okay, okay, Seventh Brother, your turn." But soon, Xiao Luzi''s authoritative voice rang out again. "Seventh Prince, you''vended on Shengzhou, which the Crown Prince just bought. You need to pay him a rent of one hundred taels." "Ah!" The Seventh Prince let out a cry of anguish. The Crown Prince chuckled softly, "It seems I''m the Tycoon this round. I have the mostnd now, and the entire southeastern region is connected under my control." "Tsk, Big Brother, it''s still early. The northern region is under the control of our Fifth Brother. Besides, you have me. Once it''s my turn to go to the Bank and get the money, I''ll buy more territories too!" The Seventh Prince protested. At the entrance, Xiao Yunzhou and Sanda''s eyes widened in shock. The Princes with pockmarked faces weren''t gambling with money? Instead, they were ying a very new and progressive kind of mathematics?! No, were they learning the art of governing the country?! upying territories, collecting tolls... Market trading, buying low and selling high... Sanda stood in a daze for a long time before finally blurting out, "Big Brother, my way of educating children pales inparison to yours!" "Jing Country will never decline for a hundred years!" Xiao Yunzhou''s face flushed with excitement. [Heh, this is the ''Grand Tycoon'' version of Jing Country that Consort Min, my mother, and the pce maid Qiu Li have developed~ Hehehe.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. Who says women are inferior to men! The pce maids around Concubine Liu are so aplished! Chapter 136 Xiao Yunzhou stood outside the door, listening to the movements of the princes in the room, his expression gradually changing. "Big Brother, this city of Jingzhou to the east belongs to me now~" "I want to upgrade it, upgrade to the luxury level of a third-tier city, hehehe." The princes were ying enthusiastically, and Xiao Yunzhou''s heart was fluttering. Jingzhou, Yucheng... When he heard those names, he cast a wary nce at Sanda by his side! The game that Concubine Liu, Consort Min, and the pce maids had made, if it recreated the detailed map of Jing Country, could not let neighboring countries hear about it. Although each country had spies and had acquired a portion of other countries'' maps. But most maps were not specific and detailed enough. If it was made into a game, this wealthy merchant''s map of Jing Country was too detailed, and if it spread to neighboring countries, it would be a serious problem! Once war broke out, the enemy would know Jing Country''s geographical environment, the size and fortifications of each city like the back of their hand, and they could target the weaknesses for attack, putting Jing Country in danger. But as Xiao Yunzhou broke out in a cold sweat, warily watching Sanda, he realized the seventh prince had said something odd. Wait, Yucheng to the east of Jingzhou? "Hehe, it''s your turn, Big Brother. Just don''t go to Mocheng in the north, that''s Fifth Brother''s territory." Mocheng? What''s that? The north? Xiao Yunzhou was bewildered. [Oh, the cities inside are all fictional,] Xiao Chuchu sighed in Wei Zheng''s embrace. [Even if the Khan of Wu Yun Country heard it, it doesn''t matter. It''s not the real map of Jing Country, hehehe~ This made-up map idea was suggested by Aunt Consort Min. She loves reading military books when she''s free.] Xiao Yunzhou heaved a sigh of relief. That''s fine then. Let Sanda listen all he wants. [I really want to y too, but my arms are so short now, I can''t roll the dice, wuwuwu, damn it!] Xiao Chuchu almostughed out loud, unable to resist turning to look at her daughter''s tiny hands wrapped up tightly in the swaddle. [Never mind, I''ll y when I''m older, but I want to go in with the Emperor Father, I don''t want to just watch the broadcast from outside. I want to see the live battle~] Xiao Chuchu didn''t want to keep holding back. In this young body, she couldn''t do anything, couldn''t go anywhere dangerous, it was so boring. [Are my brothers all okay? Then I can go in and watch them y!] No! Xiao Yunzhou almost objected out loud. He turned and gave his daughter a deep, soft cough, "Wei Zheng, take the Little Princess a bit further away." "Stand somewhere the wind can''t reach, back up, back up further." "Ten steps, no, twenty steps." [......] Xiao Chuchu was so dejected she didn''t even want to speak, her inner voice falling silent. Xiao Yunzhou shook his head helplessly. It''s just a game, after all? Consort Liu really, knowing the Little Princess is too young to y, she had to bring it out at this time, forcing the girl to just stand by and watch, isn''t that going to frustrate her and make her cry? "Big Brother, noting in?" Sanda looked over in puzzlement. Xiao Yunzhou hesitated for a moment longer, but still didn''t hear his daughter''s inner voice, and his heart ached. But the princess couldn''t go in to watch her brothers y. Xiao Yunzhou forced back his heartache, signaling a little eunuch to lift the curtain as he walked in. "Your Majesty!" "Royal Father¡ª" The several princes who had been ying fervently quickly noticed Xiao Yunzhou and Sanda, rising in surprise to pay respects. "Stay seated, don''t move," Sanda was very courteous. "Your bodies are important." Xiao Yunzhou scrutinized his sons, seeing their ruddyplexions and lively eyes, and felt relieved. "No matter, I''ve juste with your Uncle Sanda to see how you''re recovering. Are you ufortable at all?" "We''re all well, thank you for your concern, Royal Father and Khan Sanda." The Crown Prince spoke gratefully on behalf of his brothers. Even the youngest, the Seventh Prince, looked at Xiao Yunzhou now with less of the usual fear in his eyes. The father before them was like any ordinary father at this moment, concerned for his sons'' wellbeing. He wouldn''t ask about lessons today, only whether they felt unwell. The princes each felt a warmth in their hearts. "It''s our fault to make the Royal Father worry when he already handles so much." "Royal Father and Khan Sanda, please return, lest you catch an illness from us." The Crown Prince spoke emotionally as he stood. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand dismissively. "It''s fine, I have some free time now." The Crown Prince''s eyes flickered, thinking his father still valued him! But his gaze only flickered briefly before Xiao Yunzhou''s next words stunned him. "Now then, eldest, what are you ying? Hand it over, let me take it." Xiao Yunzhou said nonchntly. Ah? The Crown Prince''s smile froze, and from the Second to the Seventh Prince, their expressions simultaneously stiffened, staring at Xiao Yunzhou in disbelief. The carefree Sixth Prince Cheng Shan couldn''t help eximing, "Father, you''re kidding, right? You want to take the game from us too?" "This is what Fifth Brother''s mother and my mother made for us to y!" "......" Xiao Yunzhou''s lips twitched. He wasn''t going to take it from his sons! It was for the Little Princess! If the Little Princess couldn''t y, then her brothers shouldn''t y so much either! "Talking nonsense again, would I y such childish games?" As he said this, Sanda''s gaze flickered ufortably. But Xiao Yunzhou didn''t notice, continuing to berate his sixth son, "The royal physicians told you to recuperate properly, but I heard you yed until today without stoppingst night. The physicians told you to go for a walk in the garden to get some air, but you didn''t go. I heardst night you didn''t even eat your meals properly, just obsessed with ying!" "At such a young age, with no appetite for food or tea, only obsessed with games, what kind of behavior is that?" "Hand over those silly merchant cards! I''m confiscating them!" As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, the eunuch Jiu Xiao standing behind Prince Cheng Qian wore a sharp expression. But it quickly softened at Xiao Yunzhou''s next words. "I''ll give them back when you''ve recovered. For now, you need activity and meals! No obsession, lest you damage your vitality!" Jiu Xiao''s sternness faded to concern on Cheng Qian''s back after Xiao Yunzhou''s words, his face showing understanding. "Quickly now, didn''t you hear what I said?" Xiao Yunzhou raised his voice when his sons didn''t move. The little attendant Xiao Luzi had already peed himself in fright, hurriedly gathering the pile of cards of varying lengths and colors into a square sandalwood box. Along with a handwritten ''Guide to the Wealthy Game of Jing Country'' tucked into the box before he respectfully presented it to Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou''s gazended on the game guide, flickering briefly. "Mm, you rest up. I won''t linger any longer. I''lle see you again in a couple days." Xiao Yunzhou also knew that being here, his son would most likely not be able to rest well, so after saying a few words, he left with Sanda. [Ah...? Did the Emperor Dad snatch the tabletop game that Mom made for my brother?] Xiao Chuchu, watching the live broadcast from outside, was dumbfounded. [Hahaha, I''mughing my head off. Could it be that the Emperor Dad also wants to y?] Nonsense. Xiao Yunzhou''s old face turned red. How could that be? How could his daughter, the reincarnation of a fairy, misunderstand him like that? When would he have the free time to y cards? But as they approached the Imperial Study Room, Sanda coughed softly and shyly. "Um, Big Brother... This ''Who Has the Most Money in Jing Country'' tabletop game from the Prince of Jing Country seems to contain some hidden lessons on governing the country. The principles of managing money, grain, andnd all seem to be present in these cards." "Do you want to y?" Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered. I would certainly not be interested in a child''s ything. But if the neighboring Khan demands that I y... "Big Brother, shall we have a round?" Sanda, who had few entertainment options on the grasnds, was quite curious about and eager to y this game. Xiao Yunzhou put on a pretended expression of hesitation. Sanda urged hastily, "Big Brother, if you don''t y, and your son doesn''t have time either, why don''t you let me take it to the Foreign Affairs Office so I can borrow it and y for a couple of days?" Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Hetu! Xiao Yunzhou almost spat out a mouthful of saliva onto Sanda''s face, just like he would have done in response to his daughter''s sarcastic inner thoughts. This sibling of mine actually wanted to monopolize such an enjoyable thing for himself!? Dream on! "We''ll y, let''s go to the Imperial Study Room right now! Wei Zheng, brew some tea!" [...] Xiao Chuchu could only give these two childish monarch buddies six points, but no more. Chapter 137 Xiao Yunzhou would never admit that he waspeting with his son for ythings. "I''m just inspecting their toys to see if there''s anything improper, and correcting a thing or two." He sat across from Sanda, and quickly realized that with his sons ying together, it might not look so good for the two of them to y this ''Wealthy Lord'' game. "Wei Zheng, you join in too." "!" It wasn''t long before Xiao Chuchu was picked up and cradled by Xiao Yunzhou himself, who yed with and teased her. Xiao Yunzhou even offered some suggestions, "This map is made of paper, too fragile. Wei Zheng, have the Imperial Painting Bureau make one out of zed tilester on." "And these cards, don''t use paper, make wooden ones painted in different colors. Silver pieces should look like Jing Country Bank notes, and smaller denominations should be shaped like ingots." "The trading goods like grain, cloth, horses and sheep - carve miniature versions out of wood." Sanda''s eyes lit up as he listened. [Ah, so this is what the Emperor Father meant by corrections? I thought he coulde up with improved gamey for Wealthy Lord. Instead, he''s just turning it into a luxurious pce set, haha~] Xiao Chuchu was amused. "......" Xiao Yunzhou fell silent. Was he being mocked by his fairy daughter? Ahem, he was just preparing for when the little princess grew up, so she could y without dirtying her little fingers. Otherwise, the paper cards made by Concubine Liu and Consort Min were all ink. y for too long, and your fingers would be ck. Before long, the game board map for Wealthy Lord was all crumpled up. He didn''t want his daughter to suffer such indignities. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked down at his heartless fairy daughter. [But the Emperor Father is so good at making board game pieces!] [If this version turns out well, I''d love to collect it.] Xiao Chuchu thought about it and grew even happier. When she grew up, she could y it too. [The first Wealthy Lord set has sentimental value, I''ll have to keep it for myself, hehe.] [As for this game that wastes time, the Emperor Father is right, my brothers can''t y it, so I''ll have to sacrifice and take it instead.] Xiao Yunzhou shook his head and smiled wryly, his mind drawn to his daughter''s chatter. Without realizing it, he had stumbled onto Sanda''s property. "Hahaha, pay rent, big brother!" "......" After half a round, Xiao Yunzhou found his luck was terrible, constantlynding on Sanda and Wei Zheng''s properties. He even hit random event spaces and lost assets from being robbed. His property rent collection was also very unsessful, and before he knew it, he had be the poorest yer on the board. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression gradually darkened, while Wei Zheng sweated profusely. Only Sandaughed most happily, not fearing Xiao Yunzhou''s displeasure at all. "Big brother, you''re no good at this game," Sanda taunted shamelessly. [Woof, a bunch of noobs.] Xiao Chuchu had been observing for half a round, and forgot the rule of ''silence while watching'' as she couldn''t help but start weighing in mentally. [Noobs, in a single word.] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Although he didn''t understand what ''noob'' meant, his daughter''s tone made it clear she wasn''t praising him. Xiao Yunzhou''s ears reddened, and he suddenly didn''t feel like ying anymore. But soon he heard his daughter''s mentalmentary. [These kinds of board games are partly luck, partly testing the yer''s strategy and calctions~] Xiao Chuchu had some experience, so she wanted to show off. [In Wealthy Lord, winning or losing is strongly tied to the yer''s investment strategy in the early and mid-game stages.] [Imagine yourself as an investor, buying properties early while paying attention to prices, rents, and upgrade costs'' return on investment, as well as their locations on the map - areas around banks and markets are prime picks.] [Not necessarily the most expensive ones.] Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. What his daughter said reminded him of the ''Finance'' knowledge from the Immortal Realm! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened, never expecting that this game Concubine Liu created would contain practical financial knowledge? [Additionally, you need to watch your cash flow, not blindly investing, and never put all your eggs in one basket.] [And purely conservativendlord yers will find it hard to take first ce.] [Sometimes you need to be aggressive, like when Cheng Shan buys underpriced horses at the market, then sells them at 5 times the priceter, far exceeding rental ie.] "......!" Xiao Yunzhou''s ears burned, so he hadn''t employed an investment strategy like Cheng Shan? [Woof, Cheng Shan''s pretty business-savvy.] Xiao Chuchu had indeed thought of that. [Bold, striking when the timing is right.] Xiao Yunzhou huffed softly. [But it''s too bad my mother didn''t include a loan function for the bank.] Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. Loans? [Can''t really me my mother though,] Xiao Chuchu didn''t notice her father''s reaction as she chattered on, [since the Emperor Father hasn''t fully developed the Jing Country Bank''s functions, my mother couldn''t implement loans in the game either.] [Besides epting deposits, banks also provide loans, you know.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. [The interest banks pay on deposits mostlyes from reinvesting that money elsewhere, or from loan interest.] Xiao Yunzhou suddenly regained his focus, looking at the crumpled Wealthy Lord map, the bank in a prominent position. In an instant, it dawned on him! No wonder he had felt something off from the very start. This bank space - whenever he passed by, he didn''t want to enter. Because the interest earned from deposits was lower than profits from buying low and selling high at the market! Now he understood - the bank in Wealthy Lord isn''t for depositing money, but for loaning it to yers! He could borrow money to buy properties and horses, then pay it back after earning profits. [Speaking of which, when will the Emperor Father implement lending for the Jing Country Bank?] Earlier, Xiao Chuchu had been alternating between napping and nursing, upied by an infant''s demanding needs. And asionally being interrupted by the system granting her skills. Now, she finally remembered this crucial matter of bank lending. [Some Capital Officials andmoners just arriving in the capital might not have enough cash to buy homes, so the Jing Country Bank could lend them money.] [Interest rates would be higher than deposits, but not too high.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou was enlightened. So that''s how it was - if managed properly, the Jing Country Bank could be self-sustaining in theory. Collecting loan interest on one side, paying out deposit interest on the other. The bank wouldn''t need the Jing Country treasury to worry about whether interest could be paid out on time! [They could also provide business loans to merchants looking to start enterprises.] Xiao Chuchu pondered. [But they''d need to carefully vet the merchants'' credentials.] [The bank should also set aside provisions for bad debts.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou had a great realization. Previously, he always forced the Ministry of Revenue to focus on making money. But this was wrong. The Ministry of Revenue had only a few people, and a country''s strength ultimately depended on the power of its citizens. If the merchants of Jing Country were all profiting, would Jing Country stillck ie? Those merchants who were temporarily short of cash but had an eye for investment, like Cheng Shan, should receive support from the Jing Country Bank! Give them the opportunity to make money with money! [Hmm, if the bank could offer housing loans and business loans, the Emperor Father and Uncle Jiang from the Ministry of Revenue would not have to worry about whether citizens could repay the principal and interest on time.] Exactly, that''s it! He had to quickly get Jiang Li involved in this game of business tycoon. Xiao Yunzhou stood up abruptly. If Jiang Li was too dull to realize the loan strategy from this board game, then he, the Emperor, would have to put in some effort and guide him after a round of the game! Thinking about it, Xiao Yunzhou became excited and mmed his hand down on the table, scattering all the cards of the business tycoon game. "What??" Sanda stared at him, "Are you cheating, Big Brother? You''re losing, so you''re refusing to acknowledge the evidence and destroying it?" Xiao Yunzhou: "...Ahem." Was he that kind of person? But just as he was about to call for the Ministry of Revenue, a guard outside announced, "Your Majesty, Fucha and Shen Mian from the Grand Council request an audience." Sanda looked disappointed. But Xiao Yunzhou was delighted. "Let them in. And summon all Six Ministries as well." "Wei Zheng, quickly find a few eunuchs who are good at writing and make three new sets of business tycoon cards urgently." "I want to y with the Grand Council, the Six Ministries, and Brother Sanda!" What? It was time for the council meeting. y... what card game? With just one sentence, Xiao Yunzhou left Sanda, who was about to reluctantly leave, as well as Fucha and Shen Mian from the Grand Council at the door, stunned. It was as if he had contracted a raging fever! The Prince was fine, but the Emperor had gone mad! "Big Brother, you really are bold," even the observing Sanda admired him. Xiao Yunzhou: "..." Chapter 138 "Never in ancient times to the present, there exists an emperor who indulges in child''s y with the Imperial Cab and Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries!" "What on earth is the Emperor thinking?" The summons to the Chief Ministers bewildered them, even raising suspicions if the eunuch delivering the imperial edict had misspoken. "Your Majesty, kindly rescind your actions." Inside the Imperial Study, Chancellor Fu Cha couldn''t help but darken his countenance. "The Chief Ministers are all currently on duty!" His beard seemed ready to curl in irritation, shooting a direct challenge to Xiao Yunzhou seated across the table. Vice Minister Shen Mian, holding back Chancellor Fu Cha, signaled him with his eyes to remember they were in the presence of Khan Sanda from the Prairie. Scolding the Emperor shouldn''t be a show in front of a foreign guest. Home troubles should not be aired publicly. Shen Mian''s hardly veiled hints almost left him physically drained, while the Chancellor restrained himself, inhaling deeply to regainposure. "Erm," Khan Sanda awkwardly rose from his seat, "Well, I should return to my embassy." He cast a sympathetic nce at Xiao Yunzhou before leaving. Before departing, Sanda advised Xiao Yunzhou in a low voice, "Brother, let me advise you, don''t go against the ministers. If you wish to y, the ministers will surely disapprove. You should find a secret ce to y alone." Sanda had definitely understood the essence of an emperor''s leisure time. He was also certain an emperor and his ministers would neverbine their recreational moments. If one entertained oneself too much, soon titles like tyrant or ipetent ruler would follow, bundled with threats of resignation or illness- who could bear that? But even an emperor needed to rx! "I shall visit your imperial children tomorrow." Sanda gave Xiao Yunzhou a knowing look, conveying ''stop being stubborn,'' promptly making his exit. After Sanda left, Wei Zheng nced at the faces of Chancellor Fu Cha and Vice Minister Shen Mian, filled with their desire to scold the Emperor, and quickly began to clear the ndlord'' game from the table. But he was barely moving when Xiao Yunzhou ordered, "Don''t touch it, let it be. Stop making a scene, Chancellor Fu Cha, Mr. Shen, sit down and wait for Jiang Li to start a round." Who''s making a scene? Who''s making a scene? Chancellor Fu Cha and Vice Minister Shen Mian were utterly speechless. The Emperor had changed beyond recognition when not kept an eye on. Chancellor Fu Cha barely managed to catch his breath, hand on his chest. As crown prince, Xiao Yunzhou had had his moments of frivolity, but it was all harmless fun, at best led astray by his brothers. Never like today, even involving his tutors and ministers! "The ipetent rulers in history at most yed with eunuchs, imperial consorts!" "The Emperor, not content ying with eunuchs, even wishes to draw me and the Six Ministries into y?" Chancellor Fu Cha''sment visibly made Wei Zheng''s expression falter. Wei Zheng felt wronged. In the name of all that''s good, he had never encouraged the Emperor to engage in frivolous y! It was the Emperor who always dragged him into it! But Chancellor Fu Cha red at Wei Zheng, "Your Majesty, everything you do will be recorded in the imperial annals. How do you think the future generations of your kingdom, the schrs, will view today''s proceedings?" Xiao Yunzhou took a step back, spluttering under the onught of words. ¡¾Well, ah! Can it really be that serious?¡¿ Little Xiao Chuchu nestled in her father''s arms, silently rooting for her dad. ¡¾I mean, in the modern corporate world, even a CEO needs to mix with his staff.¡¿ Thepany often hosts entertainment activities for all employees such as annual meetings and team building, allowing staff and managers the chance to mingle. In the process, the overall cohesion of the organization improves. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. So, that''s how it is in the immortal world! There''s no need for the employees in thepany to be so tense. Taking one workday off for annual meetings or tours is normal. Xiao Chuchu silently yet humorouslymented, "Thepany''s team-building activities surely wouldn''t take up the employee''s own holiday time, would they?" Of Course! Xiao Yunzhou instantly felt that his proposal was like team-building in the immortal world. "I used to participate in cardpetitions during the team building activities in my previouspany," Xiao Chuchu happily recalled. "Your Majesty, wouldn''t you rescind the order now?" Chancellor Fu Cha raised his voice. Chancellor Fu Cha knew his student well; as long as his volume is higher and makes sense, his student wouldply. Like this time''s frolic, The Emperor certainly would listen. But Chancellor Fu Cha''s confidence was soon extinguished. Xiao Yunzhou, shaking off his previous lethargy and irritations, smiled as if he was aided by divine powers. "Combining work and rest, Chancellor, no need to bring that up." "???" "Say it again, and it''s disobedience." "¡­¡­!" Chancellor Fu Cha was about to retort, but Xiao Yunzhou gestured, "Any objections, let''s y a round first. Otherwise, I will be angry, and won''t attend the court meeting tomorrow." ''!!'' Bad influences. The Emperor has been corrupted. Chancellor Fu Cha, who was so annoyed his eyes were seeing stars, was sure that Sanda was to me! Helpless, he sat down with Shen Mian, pulling a long face. "Let''s just y one round. Your Majesty, after this round, we must discuss state matters," Shen Mian persuaded. "Of course, would I be so engrossed?" replied The Emperor. "¡­¡­" Before long, the Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries arrived. Before entering the study, they had already managed their surprised reactions along the way. Now, even upon seeing the Chancellor ying with the Emperor, they were no longer surprised. "Have you arrived? Jiang Li,e here, sit at my table," Xiao Yunzhou raised his head, calling for Jiang Li. "As for others, start your own table. Wei Zheng, teach them." "¡­¡­" "Rx, I will only y one round with you." But that night, the light in the study never went off. * The next day, at the Qianxi No.5 Residence where the princes were resting after smallpox vination. Soon, the screams of the Sixth Prince were heard. "What, the Emperor said he would just take it away?! Not topete with us children?!" "He yed all night? The Emperor didn''t sleep the whole night?! Not just ying by himself, but making Chancellor Fu Cha y along, too? Eldest Brother, Fifth Brother, is the Emperor all right?" "He won''t be scolded by the Empress Dowager¡­ uh-uh-uh.¡± With Cheng Qian and the Eldest Prince covering his mouth, they exchanged embarrassed nces. Eh, what to do with a Sixth Brother who speaks such outrageous words? What to do with an Emperor¡­ who loses himself to y? The Eldest Prince and his brother Cheng Qian, for the first time, felt an unspoken understanding between each other. The next day, when The Empress Dowager in Cining Pce heard Consort Li¡¯sint, was stunned. "What?" "The Emperor and the Chancellor, they yed dice all night?" "Consort Li, are you sure you heard it right? The Emperor was supposed to be reading memorials, discussing state matters all night." Consort Li gave a humph, casting a cold, mocking nce at Concubine Liu and Consort Min. "I haven''t said anything wrong, Empress Dowager. This distracting piece of amusement for the Emperor and the Imperial Cab, was made by Concubine Liu and Consort Min yesterday." The Empress Dowager froze, disbelief glinting in her eyes as she looked towards the named Channiang duo. The Empress stood up and knelt down solemnly, "Mother, I want to go to the imperial study to advise the Emperor." "Let''s go, I''lle with you!" The Empress Dowager quickly stood up. A nervous Consort Min pulled Concubine Liu behind her, "Channiang, if anything happenster, push it all on me. Just say I created this big jackpot." "The Emperor being preupied with his ythings has nothing to do with you!" Liu Channiang, hesitating on her words, finally clenched Consort Min''s hand tightly. This has nothing to do with them! That''s not how things are... But before they could exin, the Empress Dowager and the Empress took their group and marched to the door of the imperial study. Just as the Empress Dowager was about to enter with a serious face, Xiao Yunzhou''s hoarse night-long voice was heard from inside. "Jiang Li, you still don''t get it? I have already gained enlightenment from this big jackpot, about lending money to merchants and ordinary people." "You still don''t get it!" "I have yed with you all night!" "Imperial Cab, I have understood the operational principles amongst the bankers, merchants, and parcels. How about you?" "All you know is being led astray by your indulgence, turning pale at the mention of y..." "Tonight, I yed and thought of seven or eight policy changes. How about you?" "You still want to stop me from ying? Now, say it, what have you learned?" Suddenly, the footsteps of the Empress Dowager, the Empress, and Consort Li came to an abrupt halt, almost tripping over themselves. Chapter 139 "Tonight, while ying, I came up with seven or eight policy changes. What about you all?" Xiao Yunzhou''s hoarse voice sounded very rough. As if he had been working all night, without sleep or rest. But this was all an illusion. [Oh, Emperor Father''s voice is hoarse, not from thinking about policies, but from ying Tycoonst night. He spent the whole time urging Elder Fuca and Lord Shen to hurry up and decide whether to buynd or not, shouting until he went hoarse.] "..." Liu Chaniang, holding her daughter Chu Chu, stood outside the imperial study, feeling her temple throb as she listened. Last night, Xiao Yunzhou had yed Tycoon with his ministers all night long. Until the moon rose above the willow treetops, he still hadn''t returned the little princess. She had to send the wet nurse to forcibly bring her back. As a result, once daughter Chu Chu returned to the side hall of Donghua Pce, her inner voice never stopped. While awake, she gave Liu Chaniang a full broadcast of the intense battle scene between the emperor and the cab and six ministries. Liu Chaniang heard everything crystal clear, including how after the midnight hour, Xiao Yunzhou pped the table and added a new rule to Tycoon - yers who reach the bank can borrow silver from it. [Emperor Father has had an epiphany, not bad.] In her mother''s arms, Xiao Chuchu praised her old man the emperor as naturally as eating and drinking. [Not stupid.] [It wasn''t in vain that my mother, along with Qiu Li and Auntie Consort Min, used their clever wits and painstaking efforts to invent ''Tycoon'' from the leaf card game.] Xiao Chuchu, already well-rested this morning, began her inner monologue at the imperial study''s door. Liu Chaniang listened with barely suppressedughter. Inside the study, Xiao Yunzhou, separated only by a wall, heard the little princess''s voice and his eyes suddenly lit up. His daughter hade? Had she seen her father''s capabilities? Xiao Yunzhou instantly became more energetic, looking toward Jiang Li of the Ministry of Revenue, who was equally exhausted from the all-nighter. "In Tycoon, you''re no match for me." "In devising new fiscal policies, you''re not my equal either." "Jiang Li, Minister of Revenue, aren''t you ashamed?" Jiang Li''s face flushed red, nearly diving under the table, and could only stand up, "I- I humbly request Your Majesty to lend me Tycoon for a day, so I may take it back to the Ministry of Revenue for all officials to study together." Outside the imperial study, the Empress Dowager, Empress, and Noble Consort Li listened in astonishment. This ything, and the Minister of Revenue wants to borrow it, for the entire ministry to learn from? "Hmph," but soon Xiao Yunzhou''s dissatisfied voice came from the study, "If you take it back to ponder, and still don''t match up to me, won''t that be wasting the efforts of Concubine Liu and Consort Min?" "...!" The Empress and Noble Consort Li, who hade toin, instantly wore unsightly expressions. "Who says women are inferior to men?" Xiao Yunzhou knew his daughter was outside, and also knew she was a typical mommy''s girl who fiercely protected her mother. Moreover, this bank loan concept he grasped was indeed thanks to the wisdom of the pce women. Without this Tycoon game, the banks of Jing Country would likely still be limited to the single function of deposits. At once, Xiao Yunzhou stroked his precious fairy''s fur the right way, not sparing praise for women, "Back when I wanted to appoint Concubine Liu as a female official, you all opposed." "The cab and six ministries had the loudest voices." "Now, she''s made another contribution," Xiao Yunzhou spread his hands, "How about that?" "Does your face hurt?" "Cab, six ministries?" Silence fell inside the imperial study. Outside was equally dead quiet. The Empress Dowager, who had stopped to eavesdrop, was silent for a moment before turning to find Liu Chaniang and Consort Min. She nodded gently at them, her gaze full of kindness and praise. The Empress and Noble Consort Li: "..." The Empress Dowager turned quietly, lowering her voice to instruct the guard at the door, "Don''t let the Emperor know we were here." "Let''s go, we mustn''t disturb the Emperor and ministers as they delve into state affairs." "..." The group of pce consorts were all speechless. Delving into what? Something from a card game? As the pce women turned to leave, their steps seemed to tread on clouds, their gazes unfocused. Clearly what Concubine Liu had created was a thing to neglect duties over, simr to ying cards. How had it be a contribution to state affairs? How had ying with cards and dice turned into something that inspired the Emperor, cab and six ministries? They all pondered without understanding, yet dared not ask details. They could only look toward Concubine Liu and Consort Min with curious, admiring gazes. What a gap. How could the difference between people be so great? "You''re so amazing, Sister Liu, Sister Min." A bold low-ranking consort blurted out. But as soon as she spoke, she was pinched by the girl beside her, signaling her to shut up. The faces of the Empress and Noble Consort Li had darkened by now. But as the Empress Dowager prepared to return to Cining Pce, Xiao Chuchu wouldn''t have it. [Hmph, Empress, Noble Consort Li, you''re just going to leave like this? You just tried to tattle on my mother and Auntie Min, and that''s the end of it? You still owe my mother, Auntie Min, and Sister Qiu Li an apology!] Xiao Yunzhou had just finished showing off in the imperial study, looking smugly at the cab and six ministries hanging their heads in reflection like grandsons, when he heard his daughter''s inner voice and was taken aback. The Empress and Noble Consort Li hade? To the imperial study door? Xiao Yunzhou pricked up his ears. Sure enough, he heard his daughter''s discontented mutterings again. [Even if Emperor Father really was addicted to the game, what does that have to do with my mother?] [An adult''s self-control can''t be med on others.] Xiao Chuchu rattled on internally without cease, [Come to think of it, the Empress Dowager and Empress are being ridiculous.] [After all these years, they still treat Emperor Father like a child.] Xiao Yunzhou frowned instantly. [He''s pushing forty, okay? Still treating a forty-year-old man like he''s four, thinking he''ll never grow up, thinking he''s greedy Chengshan?] "!" Xiao Yunzhou whooshed to his feet, unable to hold back. Here we go again. Mother was good in every way, except she didn''t trust that he had grown into a monarch capable of governing personally. It was like this with the smallpox inoction matterst time. Now it''s the same with the Tycoon game. "Empress Dowager," Noble Consort Li took two steps, still feeling dissatisfied, "Even if His Majesty wants to govern diligently, he should still take care of his health. Don''t you think? That Tycoon game won''t run away..." Before she finished speaking, Xiao Yunzhou had already strode out of the imperial study, his face inscrutable. "Mother, Empress, Noble Consort Li, you came so early, was there something you wished to tell me?" "...!" "!" "I also want to take care of my health. If you, Noble Consort Li, could help relieve my worries, I might be able to sleep a bit more." "What do you say? Noble Consort Li?" Xiao Yunzhou''s piercing gaze moved from Noble Consort Li''s face to the Empress''s. "And you, Empress, what do you think?" "!" Noble Consort Li''s face went pale. The Empress felt even more that she was being alluded to, her expression turning ugly. "Mother Empress, I feel that the Empress and Consort Li have been rather tiredtely." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze was sharp. "The affairs of the harem can be entrusted to Concubine Liu and Consort Min to manage. What does Mother Empress think?" The Empress raised her head in disbelief. Consort Li opened her mouth. A flicker of surprise crossed the face of the Empress Dowager, but she quickly sighed and nodded. "Those two are both courageous and resourceful. This arrangement is good." "The Empress shall rest for a while." The Empress directly closed her eyes and fell backward! [Wow, my mother and Aunt Min have be the heads of the harem?] Xiao Chuchu hadn''t expected that the drama would suddenly involve herself! That day, Xiao Yunzhou had the Ministry of Revenue draft detailed terms for bank loans and cooperation with merchants. When Sanda estimated the time and re-entered the Imperial Pce of Jing Country, intending to console Xiao Yunzhou who he assumed had been scolded harshly by his ministers, he found everything to be the opposite of what he had imagined. "?" "Your Mother Empress agreed to you ying with the ministers?" "What? The Ministry of Revenue even borrowed a set, wanting everyone up and down to y together?" "Ah... your Deputy Chief of the Imperial Cab even wrote a ''Poem in Praise of Board Games''?" "And the consort who invented this ything has be the mistress of the harem?" Sanda was dumbfounded. Damn, this Jing Country Emperor has it so good... "Impressive, big brother!" "You''re more formidable than all the debauched emperors of Central ins history." "...!" Xiao Yunzhou nearly rolled his eyes. You can keep that praise for yourself! Three dayster, with all the princes who received smallpox inoction safe and sound, Sanda finally made up his mind to have his own crown prince start inoction. Wu Yun Country signed terms with Jing Country for ten years of mutual trade and bank cooperation. * In the Royal Pce of Chu State. The King of Chu read the spy''s message, his expression fluctuating. "Xiao Yunzhou... he must have the assistance of an expert." The King of Chu closed his eyes. "It''s time to use our trump card." "Duoti by Sanda''s side has received so many gifts from us. Let him weigh the consequences himself." "I don''t want to see Wu Yun Country and Jing Country join forces." * [Wow, the mission to save Wu Yun Country''s crown prince isplete!] Xiao Chuchu finally received the system message as Khagan Sanda prepared to set off on his return journey. In the study, reviewing the initial draft of loan terms, Xiao Yunzhou immediately breathed a sigh of relief. But soon, he held his breath again. [Eep, the mission reward unlocks an Elite Chart''s potential romance target!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, and he pricked up his ears. [Elite: Duoti, Vanguard General of Wu Yun Country.] "??" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. Could a leader from another country also be brought into Jing Country? He had been calling Sanda brother for over ten days¡ªwasn''t this a bit disloyal? [Duoti: Combat prowess 92, excels at spearheading charges and breaking through encirclements. Secretly bought over by Chu State, intending to sabotage rtions between Wu Yun Country and Jing Country.] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Chapter 140 Duoti, the pioneering general of Wu Yun Country, had been bribed by the Chu State. Now he had be one of the 108 conquerable characters in the elite map of Jing Country? Xiao Yunzhou was once again shaken by the inner voice of the fairy''s daughter. "Your Majesty?" Jiang Li, the Minister of Revenue, reported the drafted loan policy, only to see the emperor''s stern expression. His heart sank, "Is there anything wrong?" Xiao Yunzhou took a breath and held up the memorial about the loan again, waving it in front of the fairy''s daughter. Seeing that the fairy had noments, he nodded to Jiang Li, "Yes, proceed with it promptly." "You did well this time." Xiao Yunzhou did not stint on praise. After all, this was a memorial that even the fairy''s inner voice did not criticize. "Jiang Li, you used your brain this time. I''m gratified. Keep it up." The Minister of Revenue Jiang, with dark circles under his eyes, beamed instantly. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, letting him go and handle it, while pondering himself. How to conquer Duoti? "Wei Zheng, go summon the Duke Zhengguo and a few other veteran generals. I have something to ask them." Duoti was a military leader, so Xiao Yunzhou nned to inquire about methods to conquer him from the generals of Jing Country. Thinking about it, Xiao Yunzhou looked down at the daughter in his arms and saw that Chu Chu was already yawning sleepily. His heart ached instantly, and he hurried to put her back on the small bed in the imperial study. "Have my pnquin take the Third Princess back to Concubine Liu''s quarters." "..." Wei Zheng let out a startled sound, "Your Majesty, that''s improper!" Xiao Yunzhou red at him, "Shut up. No one will know if you don''t spread it!" Wei Zheng trembled in fear. The emperor was truly doting on the Third Princess. With such a daughter, Concubine Liu could surpass even the empress. Wei Zheng understood whose side he should be on in the future. * In Kunning Pce. The Eldest Prince had finally recovered from smallpox and returned to Kunning Pce to see his mother, the empress. But he found the pce maids distressed. "What happened?" The Eldest Prince did not understand. Soon, the chief eunuch of Kunning Pce leaned in and whispered to him. "Your Highness, don''t ask the empress about it. She''s upset." The Eldest Prince was taken aback and listened carefully. "Today, His Majestymended Concubine Liu and ordered the Ministry of Rites to send all the necessary items for her promotion to a concubine of higher rank to the Donghua Pce." "It''s all because she created something that His Majesty praised endlessly, simr to the leaf game." The Eldest Prince''s eyes widened. He knew it was the Great Wealth game. That game was vastly different from the leaf game! The Eldest Prince shook his head disapprovingly at the chief eunuch Zhou Anda. "You haven''t tried this game, so don''t jump to conclusions." Zhou Anda was stunned. "Is the empress upset because of this?" The Eldest Prince did not understand. "Concubine Liu''s promotion had been decided long ago. It was even the empress who advised the emperor about it. Now that the emperor is pleased, he''s urging the Ministry of Rites toplete the formalities. What''s the problem?" "The Ministry of Rites has been dragging its feet, not only disrespecting the emperor and Concubine Liu but also the empress who proposed her promotion." "..." The chief eunuch of Kunning Pce felt a lump in his throat as he looked deeply at the Eldest Prince''s shoulders. The Eldest Prince had been taught too properly by the empress. He saw things too superficially. What he said would anger the empress to death. "Your Highness, this servant hasn''t finished speaking." The chief eunuch thought of reporting this but also wanted the Eldest Prince to see the true face of Concubine Liu and the Fifth Prince. "His Majesty doesn''t know what kind of potion Concubine Liu has fed him..." "Our empress wanted to advise His Majesty not to be obsessed with the Great Wealth game, but His Majesty said that game inspired him toe up with some financial policy..." The Eldest Prince''s eyes widened. So his father had been contemting policy while ying with his subjects overnight. He just learned this. The Eldest Prince felt ashamed. Previously, like his sixth brother, he had thought his father was simply indulging in the game like them. "The empress remonstrated but was reprimanded by His Majesty, who said he would transfer the management of the harem to Concubine Liu and Consort Min." The chief eunuch spoke angrily. The empress''s status had dropped, and consequently, the servants of Kunning Pce had lost their former status. "In my opinion, Concubine Liu must have used some sorcery. How could His Majesty gain insight into state affairs from that game..." The Eldest Prince was still listening attentively, but hearing this, his brows furrowed deeply. The more he heard, the more it sounded wrong. This was highly disrespectful to his father the emperor! The Eldest Prince looked at the chief eunuch in shock. Not to mention this was just a serving eunuch on the empress''s side, even Wei Zheng, who attended to the emperor, would never dare speak ill of the emperor behind his back! How bold, was this audacity granted by the empress? "Silence!" The Eldest Prince''s expression changed. The chief eunuch was startled. "How dare youment on my father the emperor?" The Eldest Prince looked extremely displeased. If Concubine Liu had used sorcery, then what did that make his father who followed her? The Eldest Prince truly did not expect the chief eunuch on his mother''s side to be so bold. The other day, even his fifth brother had joined him in covering the mouth of their sixth brother, who was ranting that their father was no longer himself. The three princes, him, the fifth, and the sixth, had all done so. Yet the people of Kunning Pce dared to utter such outrageous words, criticizing the emperor and his consort behind their backs? This was far too bold! If the emperor heard this, how would he view them and Kunning Pce? The Eldest Prince''s face was solemn as he left Zhou Anda and strode into the empress''s bedchamber. "Mother, your son hase to pay his respects." As the empress turned, she noticed her son''s unusual demeanor. "Cheng Quan, you''ve heard about the harem? Don''t worry, your father is only letting me rest for now. After some time, I will manage the harem again..." But before she could finish, the Eldest Prince interrupted her. "Mother, it''s a good thing that Father has temporarily relieved you of managing the harem." The empress was dumbfounded. "...What did you say?" The Eldest Prince''s expression was grave yet relieved. "Mother, take this opportunity to rectify the people of Kunning Pce first." "Moreover, with some free time, Mother should also try ying the Great Wealth game." "How can you im to be the head of the harem or the mother of the nation if you''re not familiar with our country''s current policies?" The Eldest Prince felt thatpared to his fifth brother, he had lost. Not only was it his own problem. There were many other factors, such as the differences between the Liu Family and the Tong Family... The Eldest Prince frowned and turned to leave after speaking. The empress Tong turned pale and swayed. "Cheng Quan, stop right there¡ª" "Mother, please rest first. Your son needs to study the Ministry of Revenue''stest loan policies." "..." * Loan services, under the strong promotion of Duke Jing Shangshu and the cab, were implemented within just a couple of days at the Jing Country''s Jingguo Qianheng money house! At the same time, the grocery stores in the capital also started selling a board game called ''Who is the Tycoon?'' "What is a loan?" "They lend us money, but the interest is so high!" "Why would they lend us money?" Themoners checking the imperial bulletin were once again surprised. There are so many novel things in Jing Country these days. The exnatory official standing in front of the imperial bulletin immediately gave a detailed exnation to themoners and merchants, and then unanimously rmended, "If you still don''t understand, you can try ying a new board game justunched by the Ministry of Revenue - ''Who is the Tycoon?'', and you''ll know after ying it!" "!" "!?" Xiao Chuchu, who came out of the pce with her mother to enjoy the lively scene without minding the fuss, suddenly became excited. [A game for all!] But just for that momentary excitement, the little Xiao Chuchu in her down jacket shrank her neck a bit. [Brrr, it''s still a bit cold.] [Ah, now that I have a down jacket, I kind of miss heating pads and insted cups.] Old Master Liu, who was about to ask his daughter if the rumor about her managing the pce affairs was true, paused in his steps. Chapter 141 The weather had not yet warmed up, and Xiao Chuchu could not help but yearn for theforts of modern living. Especially when she saw themoners inquiring about loans, many of whom wore old cotton jackets, some even patched, she could not help but feel cold on their behalf. [s, Jing Country is still poor. Although the national strength has improved considerably recently, with the country''s ranking rising three ces.] [But the per capita wealth is still not abundant enough, and fewmoners have attained a moderately prosperous life.] Seeing it with her own eyes, Xiao Chuchu felt even more distressed. While she herself wore a down jacket, down jackets had not yet be widespread among every household. Xiao Chuchu increasingly felt that in modern society, where most people could dress warmly, eat their fill, and enjoy theforts of electric heating and air conditioning, how fortunate and hard-won that was. [If only Jing Country were wealthier, and everyone could have hot water bottles, vacuum sks, hand warmers, and central heating, how wonderful that would be.] Xiao Chuchu sighed wistfully, her thoughts drifting far away. [Hmm, electric central heating is probably quite difficult, as the current technological tree hasn''t even reached electricity yet.] [But I wonder if we could try making hot water bottles and vacuum sks.] Liu Wenchang, who was about to speak to Liu Chaniang inside the carriage, froze momentarily. Liu Chaniang also coughed lightly with a strange expression, stopping herself from speaking. [Woof woof, Grandpa is here! It''s been so long since I''ve seen Grandpa!] Xiao Chuchu cooed and babbled, reaching out her short little arms from the wet nurse''s embrace, eager to be carried by the old man. [How is Grandma doing? And my Uncle, how is he? Has he found an Aunt yet... My Uncle is also quite old, yet still single, heh heh.] The more Liu Wenchang listened, the moreplex his expression became. The little Princess was even concerned about marriage arrangements? A transcendent being reborn, truly extraordinary. It was all her Uncle''s fault, the good-for-nothing, still unmarried to this day, causing the little Princess to worry. Liu Wenchang decided that as soon as he returned home, he would immediately have a matchmaker visit, as his eldest son Liu Runnian had now obtained an official position in the Ministry of Works after failing the imperial examinations. "Father,e up and talk. It''s windy outside,e up and warm yourself." Liu Chaniang spoke, having the carriage curtain opened. Liu Wenchang shook his head, "It''s nothing important, I won''te up. Your mother is still waiting for me at home for dinner." Saying this, he rubbed his hands, exhaling a puff of white mist on the street, "Moving around will keep me from getting cold." [Awoo, look how cold my Grandpa is! I wonder if current technology could make vacuum sks and hot water bottles.] [If I could exchange for them, I would quickly get a set for Grandpa!] Xiao Chuchu was suddenly brought back to her earlier beautiful imaginings of how technology could improve life by the word ''cold''. [If I remember correctly, old-fashioned hot water bottles had an inner and outeryer of bottles.] "!" Liu Wenchang and Liu Chaniang immediately pricked up their ears, no longer exchanging pleasantries. [The inner bottle chamber was coated with mercury.] [I remember when I was little, I broke a hot water bottle and saw what it looked like inside...] [If I''m not mistaken, this kind of bottle chamber could somewhat prevent heat radiation from escaping.] [The space between the inner and outeryers prevented heat convection.] A series of strange and unfamiliar terms made Liu Wenchang and Liu Chaniang''s eyes widen in bewilderment. But Liu Wenchang quickly bit his tongue, forcing himself to remember these iprehensible words! These must surely be celestial words from the immortal realm! It was normal for him not to understand them. By forciblymitting them to memory, perhaps he could decipher themter. Liu Wenchang gritted his teeth and tried to memorize them. [Ummm, but that''s about the extent of my shallow theoretical knowledge.] Xiao Chuchu pondered deeply, finally furrowing her brows. [What can I do, since I''m just an arts student? My scientific knowledge is limited to high school physics and chemistry, I can''t practically invent anything.] What did she mean by ''invent anything''? Liu Wenchang found it perplexing. What was an ''arts student''? And ''scientific knowledge''? In Jing Country''s imperial examinations, there were civil and military categories. Could it be that in the immortal realm, the categorization was arts and sciences? His transcendent granddaughter, in the immortal realm, was she in charge of the arts? Liu Wenchang strained to keep up with his granddaughter''s rapidly scattering thoughts, believing them to be precious, if Xiao Chuchu knew, she would probablyugh out loud at midnight. After Xiao Chuchu irresponsibly indulged in her imaginings, she ended with a sigh, [I don''t know if the researchers and talents in our Jing Country, my Uncle, would be able to create vacuum sks.] [Tsk, this lousy system, I can''t count on it, whatever you ask for, it doesn''t have. My Uncle is much more reliable than the system.] Liu Wenchang: "...!" "Ahem," he quickly nced at his daughter Liu Chaniang, "I heard you''re now acting as the Regent of the Rear Pce?" "Then hurry back to the pce. I''ll return home too, I need to keep an eye on that good-for-nothing eldest son of mine." Liu Chaniang''s expression changed, but she quickly understood, nodding, "Father, the next time you and my brother visit the pce, I''ll bring the little Princess to see you both." Having said that, she asked Qiu Li to hand over ink and paper from the carriage. [Oh, why is Mother giving Grandpa pen and paper?] Xiao Chuchu wondered. Liu Wenchang and Liu Chaniang both fell silent. But soon after Liu Wenchang left the carriage, he quickly walked to a deserted area and hastily wrote with the brush. ''Inner and outeryers'', ''mercury'', ''double-walled vacuum''... Afterward, he silently recited them once more to deepen his memory, then burned the paper with a tinder stick and hurried home. "Elder Son," Liu Wenchang burst into his eldest son Liu Runnian''s room, pushing open the door and shouting, "We have a task!" "Your old man wants a portable bottle that can keep water warm in winter, so hurry up and make one." Liu Runnian: "...?" He lifted his head from the high pile of silk and textile books. "What are you looking at? You can''t do it, can you?" Liu Wenchang snorted, puffing out his chest. "No matter, your old man has already figured out how to make it, I''ll teach you a few true words." "...Father, did you go see the little Princess today?" "Don''t talk nonsense, I didn''t, I didn''t..." "What did the little Princess say?" "..." * The ''Who is the Richest'' card game was being sold with great fervor in various sundry shops across the capital city. The shops offered two versions: a simple paper version, and an borate wooden one. The simple version, with a wooden box, cost half a tael of silver. The borate version cost five taels of silver. For a time, the sundry shops sold out of both the simple and borate versions, as people eager for novelties snatched them up. "I heard even the Minister of Revenue ys this card game." "Not just him, the boratecquered box version says it''s the same as the one yed by the Emperor himself!" "Card games are too vulgar. Haven''t you heard? The great schr Shen Mian, The Vice Minister, evenposed a poem about this board game. The miniature board represents the entire world, understanding all principles. Thus, the Emperor bestowed upon it the name ''The Board Game''." "Indeed!" "The Emperor and the Ministry of Revenue came up with the new lending policies for Jing Country Bank from studying this ''Grand Financier'' game, also known as ''Whose Money is Greater than Jing Country''." The schrs and literati of the capital, along with curious merchants with some spare cash andmoners, were eager to purchase either the simple orvish edition. Whether in teahouses or at home, they began studying the game intently. Once they delved into it, they became entranced! Moreover, they deeply realized the necessity of borrowing from Jing Country Bank. ¡ªTo buynd, start businesses, and be grand financiers, borrowing from the bank is truly tempting! Within just three days, the counters of the four Jing Country Banks in the capital were swarmed with merchants seeking loans. "Your Majesty, a rough estimate shows that the interest we''ll earn from loans next month will amount to tens of thousands of taels." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue could barely contain his glee. Xiao Yunzhou remainedposed. The methods from the celestial realm were naturally effective. "Jiang Li, you must keep the risks under control. Don''t let merchants with poor credentials exploit loopholes, ultimately leading to bad debts." Jiang Li hurriedly acknowledged. "Mm, you may leave if there''s nothing else." Xiao Yunzhou was already pondering how toplete the task from the Jade Emperor. "Ah, We have been troubled by many matters recently. Your Ministry must put in more effort and use your minds." Jiang Li: "!" With the bank earning so much, how could the Emperor still have troubles? Jiang Li truly admired Xiao Yunzhou. Even his current ''ignorant subject'' expression was sincere. He simply could notprehend the Emperor''s lofty perspective. "Wei Zheng, instruct the Ministry of Rites to prepare for Sanda to enter the pce." "On Ourst day, We must fulfill Our promise to them. Also, summon the Imperial Cab Lord Fu Cha and Minister Shen to the pce urgently to discuss establishing militarymunications with Wu Yun Country." "???" Xiao Yunzhou ignored Wei Zheng''s puzzled expression of astonishment. He pondered while sipping his tea. He had to remain here toplete the celestial task from the Jade Emperor! Just as Xiao Yunzhou was thinking, a guard reported from outside. "Your Majesty, trouble! The Minister of the Ministry of Personnel and the Minister of the Ministry of Works were fighting at Zhengyang Gate!" Xiao Yunzhou: "? Hmm?" "It seems they were arguing over the credit for some insted sk, with both ministries iming it as their achievement!" "!?" "The Minister of the Ministry of War also arrived, saying he wanted to take it to the military camps¡ªah, now the Minister of War has also been beaten!" "The Minister of Revenue, Jiang Li, who had just left the pce, heard about this and wouldn''t let the Ministry of War take it away, saying he wanted to bring it to the Ministry of Revenue to sell... ah, the Ministry of Revenue has been beaten by the Ministry of War." "..." What item was this? Xiao Yunzhou listened in bewilderment. Chapter 142 "Liu Runnian has invented a vacuum sk that can keep water warm for several hours," the Minister of Works cried to Xiao Yunzhou in the imperial study. "Your Majesty, is this vacuum sk the major contribution to the state that you mentioned before?" "Did Liu Runnian contribute significantly?" "Is Liu Runnian from the Ministry of Works?" "This is a project of my Ministry!" Xiao Yunzhou was rendered speechless by the Minister of Works'' barrage of four questions. He hadn''t even processed it yet. "Vacuum sk? Where is it? Let me take a look." [Ah, the vacuum sk, is it what I was thinking of?] Liu Chuchu was delighted in the side chamber. But soon, the angry voice of the Minister of Personnel echoed through the imperial study, immediately distracting Liu Chuchu''s thoughts. "Minister Chen, why didn''t you exin how Liu Runnian invented this vacuum sk?" "The Ministry of Works is really shameless, trying to take credit for the Ministry of Personnel''s achievement." Not only was Xiao Yunzhou surprised, but Liu Chuchu was also curious. Did the Ministry of Personnel have any talented individuals researching technology? It didn''t seem like she had heard of any. "Your Majesty, Liu Runnian invented this object entirely because of my Wen Chang Brother from the Ministry of Personnel. A few days ago, he told his son that he felt the cold water was freezing to the bone, and he was toozy to get up at night to heat it up," the Minister of Personnel said, looking at Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou: "...Ah." Liu Wenchang, Concubine Liu''s father, was sozy - no, this provided the inspiration for Liu Runnian. "Pah! Just by saying a sentence, you im it''s the Ministry of Personnel''s achievement? Your Ministry is really shameless!" The Minister of Works was furious, his chest heaving. "But it''s the Emperor who assigns us administrative duties. Does that mean every policy under heaven is the Emperor''s achievement?" "I spit on that - how thick-skinned can you be?" Xiao Yunzhou: "...?" [...] Liu Chuchu was stunned. After a while, she heard giggles rising from within her heart. "Ahem, ahem, Your Majesty, I didn''t mean you - I was referring to the people of the Ministry of Personnel!" The Minister of Works realized in his agitation that he had misspoken. The corner of Xiao Yunzhou''s brow twitched. "Just state the facts, without bringing up irrelevant matters." "Your Majesty, we in the Ministry of Personnel are certainly not as reckless as the Ministry of Works," the Minister of Personnel protested loudly. "If it weren''t for Wen Chang Brother in the Ministry of Personnel, who was inspecting the capital officials a few days ago and heard a Ministry of Justice official talking about imprisoning an alchemist fraud, Liu Runnian would never have thought of using mercury to coat the inside of the sk to keep it warm!" [Oh my god!] Liu Chuchu was delighted. [He really did use mercury!] "That alchemist fraud had a sk that was identally contaminated with mercury. He discovered that the elixir pills ced inside remained warm for a long time, so he always used this elixir sk to keep his pills warm, deceiving people out of their money," the Minister of Personnel exined, wiping away tears. "This is something my Wen Chang Brother learned by diligently evaluating each official from the Ministry of Justice and reviewing their case files. When he told his son Liu Runnian about this, it led to the Ministry of Works'' vacuum sk today!" "How can you say there is no credit due to my Ministry of Personnel? Your Majesty, what do you think?" The Minister of Personnel red at the Minister of Works. Xiao Yunzhou had forgotten how to respond after listening to all of this. Liu Chuchu also suddenly remembered, [Wow, mercury was originally derived from alchemy - Taoists extracted it from cinnabar ore.] [Argh, the dead knowledge of chemistry is attacking me again.] [Speaking of which, my father the Emperor used to love taking elixir pills too. How did I forget that the reason taking elixir pills was so deadly was because of toxic heavy metals like mercury?] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression froze. Now he knew that elixir pills should not be consumed. This vacuum sk thing used mercury extracted from elixir pills - of course elixir pills cannot be eaten! If you eat them, you''ll kick the bucket and maintain the same temperature forever! Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly in hindsight and quickly raised his hand. "Then this vacuum sk invention shall be counted as a joint achievement of the Ministries of Works and Personnel." "No way, Your Majesty!" "No way!" The two ministers red at each other. Xiao Yunzhou was speechless. "What does it have to do with you two? It''s the achievement of Father and Son Liu." "But Your Majesty, Liu Wenchang said he couldn''t take credit for the vacuum sk!" "Your Majesty, Liu Runnian also said he couldn''t take credit!" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. "They don''t want to im credit?" How strange - he had only heard of officials falsely iming credit, never of those who truly deserved it declining it. Xiao Yunzhou was deeply impressed. Father and Son Liu had once again opened his eyes as the Emperor. "Aren''t you ashamed," Xiao Yunzhou thought as he looked speechlessly at the quarreling Ministers of Works and Personnel. "The father and son who actually made the achievement don''t want the credit, yet you two are fighting over it." "You have nothing to do with it at all, and I''m ashamed on your behalf!" "Learn from the Liu family''s noble integrity!" "..." The two ministers coughed lightly, their faces flushing. The more Xiao Yunzhou spoke, the more he admired the Liu family. "If everyone in the world was like Father and Son Liu, just doing their work without seeking rewards or promotions, there would be no corrupt officials! I could sleep peacefully then!" In the adjacent chamber, Liu Chaniang, holding Liu Chuchu, blushed behind her ears. She knew the true situation in their family. Her father and elder brother - where did they disy such noble integrity in declining credit? It was because the vacuum sk was the Third Princess'' idea that she told them about. At their age, how could they shamelessly take credit from a child? "Ahem, Your Majesty, Liu Runnian wasn''t without seeking a reward either. He wishes to enter the pce to see his niece, the esteemed Third Princess. He has made a ruby-tinted zed fabric as a gift for the little princess." "That''s right, Wen Chang Brother also sought a reward, Your Majesty. He wants you to give him a blessed pendant from a high monk of Qiu Mountain Temple to present to the Third Princess." The Ministers of Works and Personnel said this, their faces also flushing slightly. "Look, see? The father and son only think about gifts for their own child," Xiao Yunzhou said, moved. "They don''t reach out to me for the slightest mary reward!" It was no wonder the divine little Third Princess was born into the Liu family! In the adjacent chamber, Liu Chuchu listened with delight. [Besides the vacuum sk, I''m even getting gifts! I''m so happy - I love my great-grandfather and great-uncle so much. I miss them, sniff.] Xiao Yunzhou smiled. "The credit for this shall be divided equally between the two of them." The dispute between the Ministries of Works and Personnel was settled. Then the Ministries of War and Revenue started bickering and pulling at each other... "Your Majesty, this kind of vacuum sk for keeping warm in winter can be awarded to meritorious soldiers and outstanding generals!" "You''re about to inspect the West Mountain Camp. It would be perfect to send them along with fur coats and instant noodle rations tofort the soldiers." The Minister of War suggested. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes indeed lit up. "General, do you really want to betray the Khan? The King of Chu may not be a good person either." In the deep of the night, at the Jing Country''s embassy, Duoti was discussing with his adviser. After listening to the adviser''s dissuasion, Duoti remained silent for a long while and let out a sigh. "I just want my iron cavalry to receive the best treatment that brave warriors deserve." "The Khan cannot give me that, but the King of Chu can." In recent years, in order to seek benefits for his iron cavalry so that they could eat rice and not starve in winter, Duoti had epted quite a few private gifts from the King of Chu. "I only know that the brave warriors of the grasnds, who tie their heads to their belts and fearlessly sell their lives for the king, should receive the best!" "Whoever can give me and my brothers the best, that person will be my master, Duoti!" In the pce of Jing Country, inside the imperial study. Xiao Yunzhou gestured to Minister Jiang, "The first batch of hot water bottles produced, reward them to the elite soldiers at the West Mountain Camp." "The rest, give them to the Ministry of Revenue." "Chancellor Fu Cha, Elder Shen Mian, you draft an article. I want to invite some brave warriors from the grasnds to stay in Jing Country for an exchange, to learn our army''s cavalry and archery skills." "Set the duration at half a year. Stay in my Jing Country and help train my army!" "I will also send two Imperial Physicians to the grasnds to spread the practice of inoction, as an exchange." Chapter 143 "Big brother, it''s no problem for me to leave some prairie elite troops here for half a year. This time when I came to Jing Country, I did bring some cavalry with me." Inside the imperial study room, Sanda readily agreed, "Then let''s exchange two of my prairie warriors for two imperial physicians from Jing Country." [Heh, this is the modern university exchange student mechanism, huh? The two countriesplement each other''s strengths, while the Emperor father can keep the target Duoti and continue courting him.] Xiao Chuchu, being held by Wei Zheng behind the study room, resolutely praised her father''s strategy. [Apply some pressure on the child, Bu-shi, apply some pressure on the father, it really works.] [Emperor father, the uncarved block can indeed be carved.] Xiao Yunzhou heard this and was delighted, his face beaming with joy. His celestial daughter had affirmed him. "Virtuous brother, excellent!" Xiao Yunzhouughed heartily and raised his cup to Sanda. "I was worried you wouldn''t be willing to let them go." Sanda waved his hand, "Hey, big brother, since you call me brother, I naturally can''t let you be at a disadvantage." He was no fool; Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t his real brother. Jing Country wasn''t helping the prairie for free. Even the previous trade had been established on the basis of mutual benefit for both countries. Now, Jing Country not only agreed to let them deposit money in Jing Country''s banks, but was also willing to teach them the inoction technique that could reduce mortality rates. For Sanda, the importance of the two imperial physicians from Jing Country was no less than that of two iron cavalry from the prairie. After all, while the prairie didn''tck brave warriors, itcked advanced medical techniques. Xiao Yunzhou''s proposal to exchange the imperial physicians with prairie cavalry for half a year was perfect for Sanda''s needs! "Big brother, I won''t bother with pleasantries. If the prairie needs to borrow money in the future, we will go to Jing Country''s banks." "Although we are not one family, we are like one. As for the people I brought this time, you can choose whoever you want. They are all skilled in horse taming and archery." Sanda was being very generous. Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered, hisplex eyes briefly scanning over the few tall, muscr generals standing behind Sanda. Duoti. He wanted this man. Courting this person was not only in ordance with the celestial realm''s instructions but also conveniently solved the future crisis of a prairie traitor being bribed by Chu State for his ''good brother''. Sanda shouldn''t be angry, should he? He should be grateful instead. After some thought, Xiao Yunzhou felt no psychological burden. But soon, his expression froze. Heaven knows, he didn''t even know which one was Duoti! Behind Sanda, there were currently four prairie men, all burly and broad-shouldered, dressed in light prairie armor. The two on the left were particrly tall and fierce-looking, with arms as thick as bowls and extremely formidable appearances. Duoti should be one of these two tallest ones, right? Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat and began, "Virtuous brother, how about these two..." His gaze drifted towards the tallest one on the left, but just for an instant, his outstretched hand froze in mid-air. [Heh, the novel mentions that Duoti''s stature is considered short and sturdy on the prairie.] Xiao Chuchu pondered in her heart. "???" Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze froze, suddenly shifting from the tallest one on the left to the ''valley'' in the middle¡ªthe shortest of the sturdy men. This sturdy man''s height was about the same as Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country. Was this the stature that the celestial realm recognized as one of the 108 elites? Xiao Yunzhou''s attempt to name him faltered, and in that instant, he heard his daughter''s celestial voice softly emerge. [ording to the author''s setting, Duoti was bullied by his tribesmen and neighbors for being short when he was young.] [So at the age of thirteen, he ran away from home and followed the adults to war. In every battle, he would fiercely charge ahead, not caring about his life, always running at the front and finding the enemy''s weaknesses with courage and wisdom.] [Through sheer hard work, he eventually proved that although his height wascking, his ferocity and strength were more than enough.] [By the age of thirty-three in the novel, Duoti had already be the number one warrior in the prairie''s vanguard.] [Woo-ooh, Father Emperor, don''t choose the wrong person. Taller doesn''t necessarily mean better.] [Please don''t court the wrong target.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s heart trembled; indeed, the people valued by the celestial realm all had legendary stories behind them. Immediately, he turned his pointing hand from the left and moved it towards the ''valley'' in the group of four behind Sanda¡ªthe shortest but sturdiest armor-d figure. "Virtuous brother, this general''s eyes are like a tiger''s, brimming with energy and ready to pounce. I find him quite impressive." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze was full of praise. "I wonder if you are willing to part with him?" Sanda and the ''valley'' Duoti behind him were both stunned, their expressions slightly surprised. "Big brother, you have a keen eye," Sanda truly admired Xiao Yunzhou''s old brother, his eye was too sharp, "to spot the best warrior I brought with me at a nce!" The more he interacted with Xiao Yunzhou, the more Sanda realized that the Emperor of Jing Country was no ordinary man. Before arriving, he had thought Jing Country was inferior to Chu State, but in the short twenty days or so he had stayed, he had a premonition that Jing Country would not fear Chu State in the future and might even surpass it! "Last time, I heard the envoy say that you, big brother, spotted my prairie''s finest horse at a nce even in the pitch-ck night. I thought it was just luck." Sanda clicked his tongue in admiration. Xiao Yunzhou remainedposed, "It''s nothing, just a bit of an eye for such things." It was just due to the guidance of the little celestial princess from the celestial realm. He looked at Sanda with sympathy. Good brother, you don''t understand the joy of having someone from the celestial realm. "Duoti, don''t you quickly pay respects to the Emperor of Jing!" Sanda immediately waved his hand freely. "For this half year, you must respect the Emperor of Jing as you respect me and follow Jing Country''s arrangements. Understood?" Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat. No need for that. Sanda''s brother was about to be stolen! But soon, Xiao Yunzhou looked towards the Duoti who was about to pay respects and was about to smile when he heard a howl from his own daughter. [Woo, Duoti''s favorability towards my father has dropped to -5%.] [Terrible!] Xiao Chuchu made a cooing sound in her swaddling clothes. Xiao Yunzhou: "...!" He looked incredulously at the seemingly loyal and sturdy Duoti standing before him. [The King of Chu sent Duoti avish gift, so Duoti thinks the King of Chu values him greatly.] [In contrast, Sanda didn''t even ask a question before sending him to Jing Country, making Sanda seem to value Duoti much lesspared to the King of Chu.] Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue helplessly. [Duoti''s heart must have been angered, and as a result, he also has no goodwill towards the Emperor father.] Xiao Yunzhou inwardly sighed, casting a gloomy look at the uncouth Sanda. He had been implicated. [Woo-ooh, the system says, congrattions to me, I''ve discovered one of Duoti''s character weaknesses - high self-esteem.] Xiao Chuchu found that she had been rewarded with twenty points. Unfortunately, the courting mission was not progressing but regressing. [s, I guess Duoti also thinks my emperor father is not a wise ruler, thinking he can point at anyone he wants, assuming that the warriors from the grasnds are all pushovers, without even asking if they''re willing to stay.] [Tsk, my father''s imperial manner indeed ignores the voices of the grassroots, not treating them as humans.] Xiao Chuchu scolded in her heart. Xiao Yunzhou''s hand soon trembled uncontrobly. Busying himself before the sturdy and sturdy Duoti, and bowing to him in time, he spoke up, "Ahem, don''t hurry to bow to Zhen!" Duoti looked puzzled, and indeed stopped moving. Xiao Yunzhou wiped his sweat in fear, "Ahem, Zhen respects every hero in the world." "Duoti, you are a heroic figure, Jing Country wees you, but I don''t know if you are willing to stay for half a year to exchange the ways of riding, archery, and military training?" "If you don''t want to, Zhen won''t force a hero." Duoti had an honest appearance, making it easy for people to overlook his strong temper inside. His brows and eyes were like those of an ox, but at this moment, the unfriendly, disapproving dark color suddenly rippled after Xiao Yunzhou''s words. Duoti couldn''t help but raise his head and look straight at Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, whom he had previously thought little of. [Woof!] [Duoti''s favorability increased by 5%, back to 0%.] Xiao Chuchu breathed a sigh of relief and set off fireworks in her heart. Xiao Yunzhou was also delighted, but only for a moment. [Damn, my old man''s fierce operation was like a tiger, but upon closer inspection, he was stuck in ce.] [Dang, after all that fuss, it''s back to 0 again...] Xiao Yunzhou''s face suddenly turned red, and his imperial arrogancepletely disappeared. His daughter''s scolding was right. He, this ipetent ruler, was stuck in ce after all that fuss, and he had to thank his daughter. Duoti scrutinized Xiao Yunzhou, and happened to catch the sight of the Jing Country emperor''s arrogance fading and his humble self-reflection. His gaze changed. Then, Duoti couldn''t help but blurt out, "Duoti is willing." After all, the King of Chu had asked him to sabotage the alliance between the two countries. Staying in Jing Country... would be better. That''s how Duoti convinced himself. Chapter 144 How to sabotage Jing Country''s cooperation with the Grasnd tribes? The suggestion from Chu State was to have Sanda''s infected son return to the Grasnds and die suddenly, so that Sanda would surely resent Jing Country. Duoti closed his eyes. "Good, since General Duoti is willing to stay, then rest for ten days, and after that, you shall lead the Grasnd warriors to spar with the elite soldiers of Jing!" Xiao Yunzhou spoke. "This will also provide us with some advice on cavalry." Sanda''s eyes lit up, but he soon said with regret, "Unfortunately, I must return to the Grasnds. I shall await the results of the contest in the Grasnds." Sanda patted Duoti, "You must bring glory to our Grasnd warriors." Duoti''s expression wasplicated. The King of Chu had instructed him to plot the Khan''s son''s demise, but if there was another way, he did not wish to go that far. Last night, he had his strategists think of other ways to appease the King of Chu, but they could note up with any. But now that he was being kept in Jing Country, he had another opportunity! Duoti touched his chest and bowed to Sanda. The next day, Sanda departed for the Grasnds with great fanfare. On their journey back, they not only brought Jing Country''s two imperial physicians but also ten deluxe sets of the ''Landlord'' board game. Xiao Yunzhou personally saw them off at Zhengyang Gate. Five dayster, Xiao Yunzhou brought the Minister of War and Duke of Dingguo to the West Mountain Camp to observe the contest between the West Mountain soldiers. He also brought the down jackets, instant noodles, and thermos sks that were to be awarded as prizes. [Woo, howe I can''t go and watch? Why not? I don''t want to stay in the pce.] Chu Chu was left in the pce, pouting unhappily with a sullen little face. Concubine Liu, who had recently been granted a higher rank, looked at her son Cheng Qian with an amused expression. "For the next few days while your father is away, read your books, and spend more time ying with your sister after." "Son understands." Cheng Qian quickly agreed, taking out a rattle drum to entertain Chu Chu. His father really... Well aware that his sister was at an age where everything was new and interesting, he still made the West Mountain Camp contest widely known. This stirred up Chu Chu''s desire to go out and see the excitement, only to leave her behind in the end. "The path to West Mountain is windy and cold, and there was the recent incident with the Earth and Moon Sect from the previous dynasty. Father definitely wouldn''t take sister out." Cheng Qian consoled his sister with these words, then opened the ''Landlord'' wooden box, preparing to y a round with Concubine Liu and Qiu Li. "Sister, why don''t you watch us y? See who wins, okay?" Cheng Qian teased Chu Chu, trying to divert her attention from her unhappiness. [Ah, Landlord again, I''m so bored of it.] Chu Chu closed her little eyes. But she soon opened them again, eyes sparkling, and used her spiritual power to purchase a live stream of her father''s journey to West Mountain. She gasped in amazement, [There''s so much dust in Jing Country!] Indeed, unless the rain washed it away, the official routes would be covered in dust clouds whenever horses passed by. Concubine Liu, who had traveled by carriage on the official roads before, nodded silently in agreement. [Hahaha, the poor Minister of War! He was in the carriage, wanting to drink some hot tea to soothe his dusty throat, but then the carriage jolted, and all the teacups spilled over.] [His pants got soaked, ahaha, and just then, someone came to summon him for an audience with the Emperor. How embarrassing!] [The Minister of War looked so distressed, wiping his pants with a cloth without even having time... But if he changed his pants, it would make the Emperor wait, so awkward hahaha.] Chu Chu wasughing uncontrobly, her little face flushed red. Concubine Liu and Cheng Qian both coughed lightly, setting down their own hot tea cups in unison before they too burst intoughter. The little princess''s spiritual awareness allowed her to see and hear from all directions, and sometimes the things she heard were truly amusing. Mother and son suppressed their smiles and continued listening curiously. Sure enough, Chu Chu''s mind voice went on, [In the end, the Minister of War changed into a new set of clothes to avoid appearing disrespectful and insulting the Emperor.] [But he should just give me his cloud ount, I''ll make him famous!] [He got into the Emperor''s carriage but didn''t even dare ept the teacup that Wei Zheng handed him, hehehe.] [The Duke of Dingguo took a sip of tea and noticed the Minister of War next to him leaning back, shuffling three steps backwards while kneeling, hahahaha.] Chu Chu was having too much fun. [That spilled cup of hot tea really traumatized the Minister of War.] Pfft, cough cough cough. Cheng Qian lowered his head. A high-ranking Minister of War, to be reduced to this! Even if tea had spilled in front of the Father Emperor, it was a small matter that the Emperor would not be angered by. Cheng Qian felt the Minister was being a bit too cautious. But just as he was thinking the Ministerckedposure, he heard his sister''s voice again. [A sports water bottle would be perfect for the Minister of War.] [The spiral cap could be screwed onto the bottle~] Cheng Qian and Concubine Liu were both taken aback. [Or they could put a small opening in the cap, and just unscrew it to drink directly from it.] [The small opening means less spige if it falls.] [Great for bumpy journeys too...] Chu Chu rambled on, continuing to watch the Minister of War and the Emperor''s carriage game, before soon starting to doze off. * The West Mountain conteststed only a day, but Xiao Yunzhou was already missing his little celestial princess in the pce. He did not linger at West Mountain and quickly returned to the capital to attend to state affairs. "General Hou, the ten victors of the West Mountain Dragon Guards this time shall return with me to spar with the Grasnd cavalry!" Xiao Yunzhou selected these ten elite soldiers to return to the pce. He also wanted to let his daughter see the level of their martial prowess. "Oh, and have their rewards been distributed?" Themanding officer of West Mountain, Hou Yuchuan, quickly replied with a smile, "They were sent out overnight. Each victorious soldier received one share, and everyone is energized. Those who lost are already vowing to win next year!" Xiao Yunzhou was pleased and brought Hou Yuchuan directly into the pce to discuss the sparring session with Duoti''s cavalry. "Even if we can''t win, you must demonstrate our might to me." Xiao Yunzhou issued his orders. He tentatively consulted the old generals of the Duke of Dingguo, and they all said that there was no best in civil affairs, just as there was no best in martial arts. To win over a militarymander, the best approach was¡ªto defeat him inbat! Xiao Yunzhou decided that this time, he must show Duoti the capabilities of Jing Country. [Hmph, Father Emperor is back?] Just as Xiao Yunzhou was about to continue giving instructions, Chu Chu''s mind voice came from outside. With the Emperor''s return, the ever-ttering Wei Zheng hastily sent someone to carry Xiao Chuchu over. By the time Xiao Yunzhou reached the study room, Xiao Chuchu had also been brought to the entrance by her nanny. Xiao Yunzhou immediately frowned at Wei Zheng, "Insolent fool, who gave you the authority!?" But as Xiao Yunzhou turned his head, he saw Concubine Xiao Chuchu at the entrance. In an instant, he dropped themanding officer of West Mountain, Hou Yuchuan, with whom he was discussing state affairs, and his face bloomed into a flower of joy. "Oh my, who do we have here?" "Ah, it''s my most beloved treasure!" Hou Yuchuan: "..." Damn it, the rumors were true - the Emperor favors Concubine Xiao Chuchu, loving his daughter but not his son. Xiao Yunzhou was about to have him sit down and embrace his daughter before discussing matters further, when he heard his daughter''s whiningint. [Father Emperor, you have returned.] [You were gone for five days, but I only watched three days of your livestream after the West Mountainpetition. It got so boring after that.] Xiao Yunzhou: "..." [It was truly dull. These past few days, I was so bored that I even went through all the gossip from the Ranking Pavilion.] Xiao Chuchu felt that her father was very uninteresting. While silentlyining, she suddenly remembered an urgent matter. [Hey, guess what - I discovered Duoti''s plot to cause trouble!] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s arms embracing his daughter grew tense. What? The Duoti he had been trying to conquer was already nning to do evil? [Oh, how do I tell Father Emperor? Duoti has been urged by the King of Chu, and has finallye up with a way to cause disruption while staying in Jing Country.] [He ns to slip maps of the grasnd tribes into the armor of our Jing Country soldiers during the martial artspetition between the two nations'' warriors, and then use Father Emperor of sending people to steal military secrets from Wu Yun Country!] [Using this to shatter the rtionship between our two countries!] [Oh, I''m so anxious! I''ve seen such an important matter, but I have no way to speak about it!] Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and looked down at his daughter''s adorable, flushed face. No, daughter, you did speak. You said so much, and so well! Chapter 145 "General Duoti, what are your suggestions for the sparring sessions between our soldiers on both sides?" That day, Xiao Yunzhou summoned Duoti to the imperial study. He introduced Hou Yuchuan, themanding officer of West Mountain, to Duoti. "Duoti, feel free to speak your mind." Xiao Yunzhou was also worried that Duoti''s heart was still in Chu even though he was physically in Jing, and might harm his precious Little Princess. So he had Wei Zheng bring the Wet Nurse, holding the Little Princess behind the screen in the imperial study. "As the King of Jingmands." Duoti was sturdy in build, his voice booming like a temple bell as he ced his right hand on his chest. With his thick brows andrge eyes, he appeared exceptionally upright and honest, not like someone with ulterior motives. From start to finish, his posture was impable, showingplete obedience. Hou Yuchuan, standing by the side, shed a look of appreciation. "Brave warrior of the grasnds, a hundred tales cannot match seeing you in person. After our sparring, let us share a drink." Duoti hesitated before nodding. "Thank you for the hospitality." He seemed ill-at-ease with social interactions. Xiao Yunzhou was speechless. If he didn''t know in advance that Duoti had been bribed by the King of Chu and was full of schemes, Xiao Yunzhou would have almost believed Duoti''s ''honest and straightforward'' persona. [Wow, this Duoti is a ruthless man.] [His pretense means nothing. In the past, when he was bullied and beaten by his brothers, he didn''t utter a word and endured the hardship.] Through the gap in the screen, Xiao Chuchu saw the armor Duoti was wearing in the study. Hearing Duoti''s ''watertight'' response, she immediately thought of the ''live stream'' she had seen at the foreign quarters these past few days. [In the foreign quarters these days, the Ministry of Rites has been serving himvishly, but he refuses it all.] Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue, amazed by this man''s perseverance. [The emperor father has been away at West Mountain for so long, and Duoti has been living like a vagrant in the foreign quarters for just as long.] "Huh?" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. [In the freezing cold, he doesn''t use a brazier in his room at the foreign quarters, and even though there are beds with quilts, he doesn''t sleep on them. He justys a straw mat on the ground and sleeps in his clothes.] [The sumptuous meals, fine wines, and delicacies prepared by the foreign quarters, he doesn''t touch a single bite. He returns them untouched, saying he brought his own grasnd food.] [He''s almost reduced to gnawing on tree bark.] "What?!" Xiao Yunzhou stared wide-eyed at Duoti, who didn''t seem particrly haggard. What is he doing? Didn''t his daughter just say that the King of Chu had bribed Duoti with generous gifts? He had thought Duoti was greedy, which is why he had instructed the Ministry of Rites to serve himvishly, sparing no expense. "Ahem, Duoti, have you beenfortable staying at the foreign quarters these past few days?" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but ask out of curiosity. "When I went to West Mountain, did the people at the foreign quarters take good care of you all?" A flicker ofplexity crossed Duoti''s face, but he quickly nodded. "Everything was fine." Xiao Yunzhou pursed his lips. Fine? What fine? How could the King of Chu bribe Duoti with generous gifts, but when Jing offered himvish treatment, Duoti became a pious ascetic, free of wordly desires? [I know the answer to this one.] Xiao Chuchu giggled after hearing the conversation in the study. [One of Duoti''s advisors secretly urged him not to be so austere.] [But Duoti wouldn''t listen, saying most of his men live in such hardship. So he must constantly remind himself of this suffering, to convince himself that serving the King of Chu is meaningful.] [By allying with Chu, his men can live like human beings. Only by uniting with Chu can the grasnds improve their soldiers'' lives.] [Most of the generous gifts from the King of Chu, he gave to the families of his fallen or disabled former subordinates. He didn''t keep much for himself.] [Wow, this is how Duoti lives on the grasnds too. Because he''s so extreme and austere, his wife can''t stand it and they''ve been living apart for years.] "..." Xiao Yunzhou was utterly astonished. [Oh, Duoti alsoined to his advisor that the Jing emperor is used to luxury, and the officials in the foreign quarters are living in opulence. With such excess, Jing''s soldiers must not be treated well either.] [No wonder Jing''s soldiers are so weak.] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched as he nced toward Duoti in the imperial study, asionally meeting Hou Yuchuan''s gaze with a look of pity. He had thought Duoti was just pretending to be kind-hearted. Now it seems Duoti was pitying Hou Yuchuan and Jing''s soldiers! [Duoti feels that Jing''s soldiers are probably treated worse than those on the grasnds. After all, their Khan still values the military, it''s just that resources are scarce on the grasnds in winter.] [So he has be more determined to follow Chu''s arrangements.] [He has decided that during the sparring session, he will slip a map of the grasnds into a Jing soldier''s pocket to sow discord between the two countries.] Xiao Yunzhou listened, dumbfounded by the many thoughts running through Duoti''s mind! Where did he even get the idea that Jing''s soldiers suffer greatly? "Brother Duoti, you''ve been staying at the foreign quarters these past few days and haven''t gone anywhere else, have you?" Seeing the emperor lost in thought for a long time, Hou Yuchuan spoke up to make small talk with Duoti, afraid he might feel slighted. "No, I haven''t left." Duoti was extremely cautious, clearly not wanting to wander about before the important matter was settled. "There''s a storyteller at the tavern next to the foreign quarters who''s been recounting tales of battles. Even I find it quite engaging to listen to." Xiao Yunzhou finally snapped out of his daze upon hearing Duoti''s response and was about to nod in agreement, but then his daughter''s peculiar thoughts echoed in his mind. [Heh... Duoti had the nerve to bring this up. The storyteller next door was actually narrating Jing''s prosperous development this yearpared to previous years.] [This year we have money to raise pigs and ducks, our finances are booming, and the people are very happy.] [But Duoti only heard the first part where the storyteller talked about how Jing used to struggle in everything, with the Duke of Dingguo cursing the court for not paying military stipends.] [When the Duke of Dingguo gets drunk, he loves to recount the hardships of leading soldiers into battle... things likeck of military pay, not even having rations... freezing to death in the snow, eating horses when hungry, and then wanting to eat the fallen enemy soldiers after finishing the horses... The storyteller knows all this and incorporated it into histest segment about ''reflecting on past bitterness to appreciate present sweetness.''] [But when Duoti heard it, he became terrified, thinking Jing''s soldiers suffered even more than those on the grasnds.] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Truly, rumors are more ferocious than tigers! Taking things out of context is so misleading. Xiao Yunzhou shifted hisplicated gaze to Duoti, who was still looking at Hou Yuchuan with pity. "General Duoti, I just had a thought." "It''s not appropriate for our two countries to engage in bloodshed and battle." "How about this - for this sparring session, your ten brave grasnd warriors can be divided into two groups of five, and work together with my elite Jing soldiers respectively." "Form two teams, one side with ten attackers, and the other with ten defenders." "Here''s how it will be, Duoti, you will be the chiefmander, and Hou Yuchuan will be the deputymander. You two will be in one group, responsible for the attack." "The other group will be on the defensive. I will appoint the Duke of Dingguo as the chiefmander, and choose another brave warrior from the prairie to be the deputymander." Duoti and Hou Yuchuan were both taken aback. This was different from what they had expected. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression was ambiguous, "The prairie and my Jing Country are not in opposition. This sparring session is more about exchange." "From today, ten defenders, ten attackers, two groups of soldiers, mixing those from the prairie and Jing Country, eating, living, and training together for three days." "After three days, we will have an attack and defense battle at Ma Family Slope." Xiao Yunzhou rubbed his palms together, leaning forward. [Wow, is this the ancient version of a military exercise?] Xiao Chuchu eximed. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. Exercise, what an apt word, befitting the celestial realm. "It''s settled then. Hou, the deputymander, you and General Duoti choose four brave warriors from the prairie and four soldiers from Jing Country to form the ten-man attack squad." "Immediately, go to the Capital Camp and rest and train!" Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. He must let Duoti see the true conditions of the Jing Country military camp! Duoti has misunderstood his Jing Country too much! "Oh, and when you enter the Capital Camp, you don''t need to bring anything from the barbarian quarters." Xiao Yunzhou looked at Duoti meaningfully. "!" Duoti, who had intended to bring the prairie map to frame Jing Country, was shaken to the core. Chapter 146 How could it be possible? Duoti''s honest face had a hint of a crack as he looked at Xiao Yunzhou. It couldn''t be possible. The Emperor of Jing Country couldn''t possibly know about his scheme. Justst night, he had finally decided which map of the grasnds to ''betray''. "Hmm, Duoti, although your Khan is like a brother to me," Xiao Yunzhou leaned forward sharply, "you still need to protect the grasnd treasures you''ve brought to Jing Country." Duoti twitched his face. "I view the grasnds as a brother, but I''m busy with state affairs and cannot keep an eye on everyone in Jing Country every day." Xiao Yunzhou said in a gloomy tone, "If you, Duoti, fail to properly guard your personal treasures and lose something..." For the first time, Duoti felt a man with no physical power had scared him into a cold sweat! The Emperor of Jing Country had hardly any flesh on his body and looked rather frail. Perhaps Duoti could knock him down with just one hand. But at this moment, the hair on the back of Duoti''s neck stood on end. How could the Emperor possibly know that he nned to pass the grasnd map to Jing Country''s soldiers? Duoti couldn''t figure it out. "If anything does happen, Duoti, not only will I punish those with ill intentions and covetous of the grasnd treasures, but I will also report your failure to properly guard the treasures to my brother Sanda." Xiao Yunzhou spoke slowly, as if talking about losing money casually. "By the way, everything I say in Jing Country will be recorded in the Emperor''s Daily Records." "My words are not idle chatter. They will all serve as evidenceter on." Duoti: "!" Hou Yuchuan had a peculiar expression, "Your Majesty, rest assured, there are no night watchmen in the Capital Camp..." Xiao Yunzhou put down his teacup with a pat, "I''m not saying there are issues in the military camp." "I''m just offering routine guidance to my brother Sanda''s subordinates, like an elder brother advising his younger brother in an ordinary family." Hou Yuchuan lookedpletely baffled. But Duoti''s back was drenched in sweat. Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country, was truly formidable! No wonder Khan Sanda called the Emperor of Jing Country ''brother''! Previously, Duoti thought Sanda was just stupid. Now he realized that might not be the case -- it was him who had been too naive! "Rest assured, Your Majesty of Jing Country! We will guard our belongings well!" Duoti vowed on the spot. His previous map scheme couldn''t be used anymore. He would have toe up with a new way to sow discord when he returned! [My foolish father the Emperor actually got it right this time. He guessed correctly and foiled Duoti''s map plot. Hehe.] Hiding behind the screen, Xiao Chuchu grinned happily. [Father the Emperor is truly a lucky fool.] Xiao Chuchu''s praise made Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitch. "Alright, take a rest and then go make arrangements for the martial artspetition." Xiao Yunzhou had no desire to keep Duoti any longer. His daughter thought he was stupid, so he had to improve his wisdom quickly. "Hou Yuchuan, I''ll leave thepetition arrangements to you." Hou Yuchuan immediately epted the order, but as he was about to leave, he was called back. "Ah, I almost forgot. Liu Runnian from the Ministry of Works has developed a brand new military canteen. You can take one to try on your way out." Xiao Yunzhou remembered this matter. After returning from West Mountain, he heard that Liu Runnian had made another invention, and this time he had taken on the canteen. "The first batch of ten will be given to the winners from West Mountain, along with the insted bottles." Hou Yuchuan''s eyes lit up, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your consideration!" However, a hint of doubt shed across Duoti''s face. Huh? A military canteen? An insted bottle? "Yes, you try them out first. If they''re good, I''ll urge the Ministry of Works to ramp up production." "Yes, I''ll take my leave now!" Hou Yuchuan warmly pulled Duoti along and forced him out of the imperial study. After going outside and feeling the cool breeze, the sweat on Duoti''s back made him shiver, but his mind became much clearer. "Come, Brother Duoti, let''s go to the Ministry of Works first, and then I''ll take you back to the Foreigner''s Lodge before we report to the Capital Camp together." Hou Yuchuan was a military man with a straightforward and amiable nature. For a simple canteen, he didn''t see any need for secrecy. After all, Duoti had been granted permission by the Emperor to enter the Capital Camp, where he would eat and live with them. "Hey, Minister Chen, is Brother Runnian here?" Upon arriving at the Ministry of Works, Hou Yuchuan greeted the Minister. While they waited, Hou Yuchuan introduced Liu Runnian to Duoti, "This Liu Runnian has developed several things specifically for our soldiers." Duoti felt a wave of bewilderment, his eyes going nk, "Specifically?" Jing Country even had things specifically made for soldiers, with dedicated research? There was no such thing on the grasnds. Most of their bows and arrows used for battle were also used for hunting, with little distinction between military and civilian purposes. Hou Yuchuan was unaware of Duoti''s thoughts. Soon, a clerk from the Ministry of Works informed them that Liu Runnian had gone to the suburbs to experiment with a new silk weaving machine. But the clerk quickly brought out two parcels and unwrapped the iron bottles swaddled in felt. These iron bottles were about the size of a palm, entirely ck, with a ring of felt wrapped around them and a rope hook attached. "Commander Hou, you can tie these directly to your waist." "The new down jacket pockets are also just the right size to fit these slim bottles." Hou Yuchuan was delighted to hear this, "How convenient. They can even be hung on a horse''s back!" Duoti''s eyes were glued to these ''military canteens'' and couldn''t look away. He had initially thought they were some kind of leather wineskin, but they turned out to be made of iron! "So light." Hou Yuchuan weighed it and was even happier, "It won''t slow down marching speed either. Great!" Duoti, who was about to say that iron wasn''t as good as leather wineskins, suddenly widened his eyes. Lighter than a leather wineskin? It should be known that leather wineskins used for travel were prone to being punctured by knives and leaking water, ruining them. Their only advantage was being cheap and lightweight. "It has to be light. Everything developed by our great Liu Runnian is a masterpiece," the Ministry of Works clerk bragged proudly. He then pointed at the thumb-sized round lid on the iron bottle, "Commander, you can unscrew this lid to drink directly from the mouth." Hou Yuchuan was about to pull it off forcefully, but changed to a twisting motion after hearing the instructions. It took several turns before the lid unscrewed. He was surprised and examined the spiral grooves on the lid. "Traditional plugs tend to pop open or get stuck in the cold or heat," the clerk exined the advantages of the new bottle with a smile, "but this threaded lid won''t have that issue." "!" Duoti couldn''t help but nce at the stopper on his own leather wineskin. Indeed, it was troublesome when the stopper expanded or contracted due to temperature changes. At this moment, Duoti looked at Hou Yuchuan with a different perspective, feeling a sense of desire and envy that he himself didn''t even notice. He saw that the thumb-sized ck lid in Hou Yuchuan''s hand had a leather cord attached to the bottle body, preventing it from being easily lost. "Ah," Hou Yuchuan gripped the bottle for a moment, then lowered his head in astonishment to examine it. "Why are there finger indentations on this bottle?" "Indeed," the clerk from the Ministry of Worksughed heartily. "This is a special design by Lord Liu Runnian, fearing that the bottle might slip from their hands during horseback riding, so he intentionally added grooved indentations for the fingers on the outer surface of the bottle." "In this way, soldiers can drink water more easily while on the march." "!" Duoti nced at the leather pouch tied around his waist, which would be slippery and difficult to grip once filled with water. Hmm... Compared to that, his water pouch from the steppes was the opposite example. [Hahaha, my grand-uncle''s travel water bottle is just like a modern sports water bottle!] Xiao Chuchu saw ''Duoti''s Live Stream'' in the imperial study andughed inwardly. [Apparently, this finger indentation design on the bottle was conceived by my grand-uncle five days ago when he went to a vige to study silkworms. He saw an elderly viger''s shaking hands unable to hold a tea cup, and came up with this idea.] [This really has the same design concept as modern sports water bottles!] [Ah, the wisdom of the working people... Let this storm rage on even more fiercely, so Duoti can broaden his horizons~] Xiao Chuchu was thoroughly amused. [Duoti looked at his own water pouch so many times, it cracked me up. His eyes keptnding on the travel water bottle in Hou Yuchuan''s hand, unable to look away.] [Hehe, no man can resist the charm of a cool new gadget!] Xiao Yunzhou held a book in the imperial study, pretending to read, but in reality, he was fully focused on listening to his daughter''s inner thoughts. He listened and couldn''t help butugh. [Oh, Duoti is heading to the Capital Camp now.] [Wow, there are scouts in the outpost eating instant noodles, hahaha, Duoti saw them and was stunned...] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. "Wei Zheng, prepare the carriage. I''ve thought it over and I''m still not at ease, so I want to go to the Capital Camp and check on Duoti and the others." Xiao Chuchu''sughter abruptly stopped. [?] Chapter 147 Duoti had thought that the treatment of the soldiers in Jing Country was even worse than on the grasnds, because Jing Country valued propriety and literature, as was well known on the prairies. Even the cavalry horses were just purchased from their grasnds this year. At the border area where the two countries met, Duoti had also seen Jing Country soldiers in the trade markets, all looking dejected, somewhat old, and clearly not very capable. Those soldiers looked even less cheerful than ordinary citizens of Jing Country. "Brother Duoti, we''ll reach our Capital Outskirts Camp in half a day''s travel," said Hou Yuchuan, leading Duoti and about ten apanying grasnd cavalrymen. "We''ll need to ride through the night, so why don''t we stop for a meal first?" The Capital Camp the Emperor spoke of naturally did not refer to the main camp. The capital city of Jing Country was the paramount priority for military defense, housing at least three-tenths of the entire elite forces of Jing Country. These elite troops were not concentrated in any single camp, but divided into five major guard units. Apart from the West Mountain Camp, there were four other major ones. Within each guard unit, there were further subdivisions with their own encampments for training. The camp that Hou Yuchuan brought Duoti and his men to today was the closest thousand-strong unit camp to the sparring grounds designated by Xiao Yunzhou. Even if the grasnders harbored ill intentions and leaked information about Jing Country''s defensiveyout, at most they would only know the locations of these thousand-strong units. Hou Yuchuan dismounted, tying his horse to a tree, and took a rest on the ground. He instructed his subordinates to prepare some food, then smilingly made small talk with Duoti, "Brother Duoti, have your men in Yun County ever sparred with our Jing Country soldiers?" Yun County was located at the border between the two countries. Wu Yun Country and Jing Country had opened trade markets there, each dispatching a hundred guards to maintain order in the market area in rotation. There were no major conflicts, but minor shes were hard to avoid. Even family members quarrel at times. "No," Duoti answered bluntly. The ten-odd grasnd warriors behind him all revealed a hint of disdain. One even gestured at Hou Yuchuan with his burly arm, as if to say he could take out a Jing Country soldier with a single punch. If it weren''t for the Emperor of Jing Country''s oundish idea, they wouldn''t have bothered sparring with Jing Country soldiers at all. "But if we beat you guys up, wouldn''t that vite the trade rules? Then if you guys make a fuss and stop selling us grain, we''ll be the ones at a disadvantage," one of the grasnd men behind Duoti grunted. "..." Hou Yuchuan''s expression changed. "Brother, are you underestimating the capabilities of our Jing Country soldiers? Before any sparring, with the oue undecided, who knows who would beat whom?" Duoti frowned to stop his subordinate''s impulsiveness, giving Hou Yuchuan a nce. "Arrows from the grasnds are only shot at prey." With the trade markets open, and the transition from autumn to winter, they had been busy stockpiling food and hadn''t even had time for the final hunt of the season on the grasnds. How could they have any leisure to take a second look at the listless Jing Country soldiers? "I presume your country has also been busy harvesting military fields and preparing winter provisions for the army," Duoti was well aware of the food situation for Jing Country soldiers. "We on both sides are self-sufficient, with no spare time to pause for sparring." In Jing Country, the soldiers had to farm their ownnd and harvest grain to feed themselves when not training. Simr to how the grasnd soldiers had to rely on hunting and plundering other tribes to sustain themselves. In essence, the Emperor of Jing Country and their Khan were equally useless. Not to be relied upon. Thinking of this, Duoti felt no enmity towards Hou Yuchuan, only a shared sense of pity. "I''ve heard that you don''t receive military wages, and after battles you''re both exhausted and hungry, yet still have to farm yourselves. The rice and flour you grow might even be snatched away by the schr-officials, leaving you with only scraps that can''t fill your bellies." "It''s pitiful." Recalling what the storyteller had said a few days ago, Duoti felt the Jing Country soldiers truly suffered hardship. If he were in their shoes, he would have shot any official who stole his men''s rations with an arrow! "I don''t want to fight you starving fellows either." Hou Yuchuan: "..." What? Were the border soldiers of Jing Country truly in such dire straits? Who was in charge of Yun County? Hou Yuchuan was baffled. There might have been issues before? But this year, the military wage situation should have greatly improved, right? As he was pondering this, a rich aroma suddenly wafted over from their left. Duoti and the few grasnd men were about to gnaw on the dry rations they had brought from the inn, but their eyes lit up before they restrained themselves. "Commander Hou, I didn''t expect your camp would be so close to civilian residences - that smell is truly enticing. We haven''t caught a whiff like that even in the capital city," the burliest of Duoti''s subordinates, who had been most disrespectful earlier, said enviously as he took a bite of the hard meat bun in his hand. "You Jing Country folks really know how to cook. The roast duck smells incredible, the pork looks firm and juicy, but this aroma that''s even more mouthwatering than roast duck..." The burly man was clearly salivating. "You Jing Country people are true masters of cuisine." "Not at all," Hou Yuchuanughed. "This fragrant smell wasn''t cooked." "Huh?" "And it''s not what the civilians eat - it''s instant noodles, a special ration for our elite troops." "???" Duoti and the dozen-odd grasnd warriors were all dumbfounded. What? Special rations for the elite troops? Hou Yuchuan turned with a smile, and beside him, ten of his elite soldiers were sitting in a circle to the left of the grasnd men, each holding a hollowed-out bamboo tube. They kindled a fire, added clear water to the bamboo tubes, and then ced them vertically on the fire to heat up. Not long after, they took out carefully protected small paper packets from the inneryers of their armor - upon opening them, they revealed a solid, glistening red block inside. They carefully broke off a quarter of the block and put it into the bamboo tubes. Instantly, the rich aroma became even more intense and pungent! Duoti and the other grasnd cavalrymen all widened their eyes. What was this? Dry rations? Oil cake? Putting it into water-filled bamboo tubes wouldn''t make it all soggy? Could it be some kind of oily tea? But this dramatic food aroma was something they had never encountered before. In an instant, Duoti and his men felt their mouths watering. "We''re traveling urgently, only reaching the camp after a day''s ride, so we can only eat something simple on the way," Hou Yuchuan chuckled. Simple? With such an aroma! The grasnd men instantly felt their dry buns in hand were inadequate. But just as they were about to resist their curiosity, white wisps of steam began rising from the bamboo tubes. Almost immediately after, Hou Yuchuan''s Jing Country soldiers took the bamboo tubes out, plucking two twigs to use as chopsticks. They then fished out from the bamboo tubes full portions of slick noodles, glistening with red oil or dripping with chicken broth! Whoosh¡ª The Jing Country soldiers savored the fragrant noodles in just two or three mouthfuls, then took out dried ration buns simr to those of the grasnd men from their pockets, dipping them in the hot soup from the bamboo tubes as they ate. A bite of dry bun, a sip of hot soup. Their expressions were blissful. It seemed they were not on a military march, but dining and spending money in street shops. "???" Duoti and the steppe people were dumbfounded. Soon, a fast horse came running from ahead, "Who goes there!? This is a critical military camp area, none may approach without authorization." The one on the fast horse was clearly a scout patrolling the camp. By Hou Yuchuan''s side, a subordinate who had just finished slurping noodles stood up, grinning, "Our own men, Commander Hou hase under imperial order." Hou Yuchuan quickly produced his token to verify his identity. The scout on the fast horse immediately rxed, "Commander Hou, the Thousand Troops Commander sent me to receive you, I''m d we''ve met atst." "Have you eaten, brother?" Hou Yuchuan''s soldier was friendly. "Have some of this noodle soup?" The scoutughed, "Not yet, but the Thousand Troops Commander rewarded me one too, to eat on the road today." Saying so, the scout dismounted and took out a bamboo tube of instant noodles from the warhorse. "???" Duoti''s eyes went wide. How was this different from the storytellers'' tales? Weren''t they saying the Jing soldiers starved, exploited by the schrs? "Why don''t you have these on the borders?" Duoti had never seen such a thing. "Brother Duoti, you mean the instant noodles? Ah, they''ve only just been developed in a few batches for trial in our Capital Camp. They''ll probably be shipped out to youe spring." "Let me tell you, this stuff is delicious, even the pce can''t get it - only us soldiers have it." "!" Chapter 148 "You can''t even get this in the imperial pce?" Sitting by the campfire, Duoti noticed that in the time it took to say a few words, the Jing Country soldiers had already finished eating. They poured water into their bamboo tubes several times, consuming everyst drop of the soup and oil. Then the soldiers went to clean the bamboo tubes. In the blink of an eye, the rich aroma that had been lingering in their nostrilspletely disappeared. In the open area, the north wind blew, extinguishing the fragrance along with the sparks from the firewood. Duoti opened his mouth. He recalled that in previous battles, there were times when he couldn''t find his way, but he always managed to locate his destination by following the smell of food. Often, when he arrived, the foolish soldiers from other tribes would still be cooking soup or roasting meat. By the time they saw him attacking, it was toote for them to pack up! But with these bamboo tubes of the Jing Country, how was it possible that before he could even finish asking his question, the Jing Country soldiers had already prepared, eaten, and cleaned up their hot soup and noodles, with the smellpletely gone? "That''s right, even in the imperial pce, I heard that the princes can''t get it," Hou Yuchuan spoke up. "If it weren''t for Concubine Liu, who helped us develop these instant noodles and saved a portion for her own son, the Fifth Prince, the princes wouldn''t even get a sip of the noodle soup." "!" Duoti was stunned, and the other grasnd cavalry were equally incredulous, as if they had heard an oundish tale. What? On the grasnds, not just their Khan Wu Yun, but any tribal leader would never let good things go to their soldiers without having it themselves first! What kind of joke was this? "Concubine Liu?" Duoti felt a sense of familiarity. "Why does that sound familiar?" Hou Yuchuan pped his thigh, "You certainly wouldn''t know our imperial concubines. But it''s normal that it sounds familiar to you." He pointed to the military canteen hanging at his waist, which he had been cherishing all along the journey. "The inventor of this thing, as well as our military thermos sks, is Liu Runnian of the Ministry of Works, who happens to be Concubine Liu''s elder brother." "They''re both surnamed Liu, huh." Duoti was taken aback. At this point, a nearby Jing Country soldier couldn''t help but interject, "The Liu family are all clever people. They think of us soldiers, knowing how hard it is for us to march and fight. They''vee up with one good thing after another for us elite troops to use. We all feel like we have boundless energytely." "Indeed, when I''m eating dry rations and can have such a delicious sip of chicken soup from the instant noodles, I''m reminded that I need to work hard this year too." The few Jing Country soldiers who hade along were all elite troops. "We can''t let down Concubine Liu and Lord Liu''s thoughtfulness. Even themon people don''t have these good things, they''re prioritizing us." Duoti and the grasnd soldiers listened with indescribably strange expressions. "Hey, I heard a storyteller at the foreign embassy say that without military pay, soldiers starve and freeze to death..." a burly grasnd man couldn''t help but speak up. Hou Yuchuanughed heartily, "Storytellers? That''s ancient history! Ever since our Jing Country established the Bank, at least in my West Mountain Camp, we''ve never been short of anything for any soldier." Duoti was stunned. Hearing is deceiving, seeing is believing. Soon, a scout soldier took out an ''instant noodle'' bamboo tube in front of them again, but just as he was about to pour hot water into it, he reluctantly put it away. "Ah, we''re only half a day from the camp, I''ll hold off. These noodles smell too good, I really don''t want to use them now." "We just came out to meet you all~" The scout tucked the bamboo tube away again. Duoti and the grasnd men were practically drooling. As they continued on their journey, they soon smelled an even richer aroma of instant noodles. "It''s just our sentries, don''t worry, keep walking." What? Even the sentries eat this well? The burly grasnd man behind Duoti swallowed hard. They had eaten their fill of tbread, but itcked richness, and they were getting increasingly hungry. "Alright, we''re here, just up ahead." Finally, as dawn was breaking, they saw the gates of the camp. After riding through the night, their bodies were drenched in sweat, but as soon as they stopped, Duoti and the grasnd men couldn''t help but stamp their feet vigorously in the Jing Country camp. "Cold? Let''s go into the tent for a cup of hot tea first." Hou Yuchuan squinted, also rubbing his hands. The scout quickly led the way, bringing them to the tworgest tents. "Offensive and defensive teams, ten people each, eating and living together. We''ve prepared everything for you." "Alright, it''s not even cockcrow yet, you go rest too." Hou Yuchuan was someone who cared for every soldier. Lifting the curtain to enter the tent, he called out to Duoti and the grasnd men, "Brother Duoti, this tent is for the offensive team. You choose your bed positions first." "Or how about we alternate the bed positions, one Jing Country soldier, then one grasnd warrior? The Emperor wants us to eat and live together, surely to help us familiarize quickly for smooth cooperation in thepetition three days from now," Hou Yuchuan suggested. Duoti thought for a moment and nodded. Being close would also be good for gathering information, and he could figure out how to fulfill King of Chu''s requestter¡ª But just as he thought this, Duoti was assigned the bed next to Hou Yuchuan. He watched as Hou Yuchuan took out a thin, rolled-up object from his pack, which appeared to be fabric. In a moment, Hou Yuchuan gave it a powerful shake, and this strange, light green roll unfurled into a cotton cloth about the size of a single person''s length and width. This thing was incredibly thin, and the middle was oddly sewn into a pattern of square blocks. "What''s that?" Before Duoti could ask, another grasnd warrior with the strongest smell of gunpowder had already questioned the Jing Country soldier next to him. Duoti turned his head and realized that in the entire tent, all five Jing Country soldiers had taken out these checkered thin cloths from their personal packs. "Oh, you don''t have these on the grasnds?" The questioned Jing Country soldier''s face shed with a hint of vengeful pride. "This is a downforter that our Concubine Liu specially made for us soldiers, considering the cold winters we face." "!??" The tiger-backed, bear-waisted grasnd soldier was stunned, then burst intoughter, "So thin? What use is it in freezing weather? It''s not as good as ours!" But hisughter quickly ceased. All five Jing Country soldiers in the tent, including Hou Yuchuan, began patting these thin quilts. Before long, these thin cloth quilts that looked incapable of keeping out the cold inted like balloons, bing half a finger thick! Hou Yuchuan lightly tossed it, and the thick quilt floated up, seeming tond on the bed effortlessly, as if it had no weight at all. "Brother Duoti, I apologize. These downforters were previously awarded by the Emperor to our West Mountain Camp elite troops. We really don''t have extras to give you." "..." "Oh, the grasnds are our Jing Country brothers too. How about this, why don''t you use my down jacket on top of your bedding?" Down jacket? Duoti and the other grasnd soldiers were once again dumbfounded. [Oh my gosh, haha! Duoti and the others are like country bumpkins in a grand pce. I''m dying ofughter!] Xiao Chuchu alternated between watching her father, the Emperor, in the Imperial Study and checking the livestream, her heart bursting with glee. [Duoti took the fluffy down jacket that Hou Yuchuan patted soft for him, his hands trembling.] [He didn''t dare move. He had never touched such a light garment before!] Xiao Chuchu was beside herself with joy. [This downforter - I can''t believe my mother came up with it. Well, I suppose once you have down jackets, downforters aren''t far behind, are they?] [You know, in modern times we even have down pants, though they''re not very practical~] Xiao Yunzhou perked up his ears, struggling to suppress a smile. ... In the camp of a thousand men. Duoti truly didn''t dare move. Wrapped in a garment that felt weightless on his body, he had thought it wouldn''t be warm. But to his surprise, before long he was sweating profusely. "Ah," Hou Yuchuan sighed wistfully to Duoti, "No wonder you didn''t know about these. These down jackets andforters were personally made by Concubine Liu and her maids. Even the civil officials of our Jing Country don''t have one. Our Emperor himself hasn''t even worn one, though I heard his beloved little princess has a small one." "But the princess isn''t even a year old, so it didn''t take much fabric. All these down jackets andforters have been sent to our military camps." "We''ll never have to fear the cold winter nights again." Duoti''s mouth hung open, unable to close for a long while. Damn. If their grasnd troops had such fine things, why would he even need to help the Chu Country?! [Ding! Duoti''s loyalty to Concubine Liu has increased by 14%] [Progress in collecting Duoti for the Elite Character Album has increased by 14%.] Xiao Chuchu was overjoyed. But suddenly, she froze. Huh? Xiao Yunzhou had just decided to visit the Capital Camp the day after tomorrow. He was now taking a nap, snoring loudly. Xiao Chuchu stared nkly at her father on the long couch in the Imperial Study, then looked at the system prompt. [It has nothing to do with my dad!] [Duoti wants to follow my mom!] Chapter 149 [Ding, Duoti''s loyalty to Concubine Liu increased by 14%] ...... [Ding, Duoti''s loyalty to Concubine Liu reached 27%] After the rooster crowed, Xiao Chuchu noticed a significant increase in the task progress. "Fifth Prince, you''ve arrived?" The guard''s greeting came from outside the imperial study. Xiao Chuchu was startled, looking towards her brother from Wei Zhenghuai''s arms. Wei Zheng immediately made a hushing gesture to Cheng Qian, who was about to step over the threshold, and nced at Xiao Yunzhou sleeping soundly on the long couch by the window. Cheng Qian nodded at once and didn''t enter the imperial study, waiting outside instead. "Fifth Prince, His Majesty is exhausted from the journey to and from West Mountain. Last night he was busy with state affairs and could only lie down on the couch. Who knows how long he''ll need to rest," Wei Zheng said reluctantly as he carried the little princess out, lowering his voice. "Why don''t youe backter? When His Majesty wakes up, I''ll tell him you were here." [Oh, Father Emperor said earlier he wanted to go to the Capital Camp to see Duoti, but he fell asleep before even leaving...] Xiao Chuchu sighed inwardly, reaching out to her brother for a hug. [I want to go back to Mother''s side. It''s so boring here with Father Emperor. Duoti''s task has nothing to do with him now.] Cheng Qian was taken aback. Then, he heard Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts as she watched Duoti''s "livestream." [Hehe, Duoti is so hot in his down jacket, he finally stood up to get some water.] [But the bright red thermos in the tent poured out such hot water that it almost scalded his hand!] [Hahaha, Duoti was stunned. The soldier who led the way earlier told them that the water was boiled before he left to find them.] [It''s the dead of winter, at least an hour or two has passed, and the water is still scalding hot. Duoti was so shocked he couldn''t say a word.] [Wow, Duoti''s loyalty to my mother has surpassed 30%!] Cheng Qian listened with twitching lips, wondering why his sister''s story sounded somewhat familiar. Xiao Chuchu also seemed to recall the incident with Jiuxiao. [Father Emperor doesn''t have much of a connection with Duoti.] [But it''s normal. Everything Duoti encounters in the military camp is either from my mother or my mother''s brother~] [If it were me, I''d be increasing my favor towards the Liu family too.] [Hey, but my mother and uncle''s inventions are just these few things for now. I hope Duoti''s task progress won''t get stuck after this?] Cheng Qian''s expression changed, and he cleared his throat lightly towards Wei Zheng, "Wei Zheng, let Father Emperor rest. I''ll take my sister back to Mother''s ce first." It was already bright outside when Cheng Qian carried his sister back to Donghua Pce. Concubine Liu and Consort Min were already up, having just finished listening to the pce affairs report from a group of elderly female servants. They were quite busy now, managing the affairs of the inner pce. After the servants withdrew, they finally had time to chat. "The Imperial Astronomical Bureau has determined that the little princess''s birth chart is most suitable for Changchun Pce in the southeast," Consort Min said, flipping through the red-sealed letter from the Bureau. "We can move in three days. Liu Chaniang, why don''t you and the little princess move on the auspicious day, and I''ll move in the day after? That way, I won''t interfere with your move." Consort Min didn''t want to live alone. "You''ll stay in the main hall of Changchun Pce, and I''ll stay in the side hall. It''s settled then," Liu Chaniang replied. [Aww, we''re finally moving! Hehe, Duoti is having breakfast in the military camp too.] [Wow, the camp kitchen has actually replicated the seasoning packets from instant noodles, making frozenmb soup seasoning blocks.] [The soldiers who go out for morning drills can now have hot soup right in the field.] Xiao Chuchu was brought back by Cheng Qian, her inner thoughts still broadcasting. [Duoti personally added water to the concentratedmb soup block in the bamboo tube, watching intently as the block dissolved into fragrant instantmb soup~ Wow, his loyalty to my mother increased by another 3%.] [Duoti took a sip, oh his eyes lit up, and then his loyalty to my mother increased by another 2%!] Liu Chaniang was about to speak to Consort Min butpletely forgot what she was going to say. [Aww, Duoti looked at his grasnd subordinates slurping hot soup beside him, and his loyalty to my mother just keeps going up!] Liu Chaniang: "!" She looked at her son Cheng Qian, who was holding her daughter, with shock and confusion. What happened? Who is Duoti? Recently, she had been busy taking over the pce affairs from the Empress, getting little rest day and night. Every time she finished her work, she was exhausted. At this moment, Liu Chaniang tried hard to recall, and finally remembered that she might have heard her daughter''s inner thoughts mention Duoti once or twice before, but she had been too tired to think about it carefully. Now she was even more bewildered, blinking in confusion. How did she gain this person''s loyalty? ...... Meanwhile, in the imperial study, Xiao Yunzhou, who had been woken up by Wei Zheng, felt sore all over as he stretched. He still felt tired to his bones. "The little princess was taken back by Cheng Qian?" Xiao Yunzhou asked after hearing Wei Zheng''s report, feeling embarrassed. He had originally nned to go check on Duotist night, to see Duoti''s shocked expression at the treatment from his country''s soldiers. However, the previous trip to the West Mountain military camp had worn out even the Emperor''s body. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t even realize how he had fallen asleepst night. Sigh. He felt ipetent, making the little princess wait in the imperial study all night. "You fool, next time when I fall asleep, wake me up. How could you let the little princess wait beside me?" Xiao Yunzhou scolded Wei Zheng. Wei Zheng: "? Ah?" "Ahem, what I mean is, if I, an adult, was tired, wouldn''t the little princess need rest even more? Couldn''t you be a bit more quick-witted and wake me up to send the little princess back to Concubine Liu''s ce for a good sleep?" Xiao Yunzhou felt that his precious fairy daughter must have sufferedst night. "Alright, it''s useless talking to you," Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, feeling that Wei Zheng wasn''t improving. "Let''s go to Concubine Liu''s ce. Set up my breakfast there, choose light vors, don''t make the little princess, who hasn''t grown all her teeth yet, crave it." "...Ah, yes." Wei Zheng was sweating. He had thought he had figured out the Emperor''s preferences, but now it seemed he had been too presumptuous. The Emperor really changed from day to day! Since returning from West Mountain, the Emperor had gone from loving the little princess like a treasure to beingpletely enved by her! If the little princess couldn''t eat something, the Emperor wouldn''t eat it either! Wei Zheng once again realized the little princess''s status in the Emperor''s heart. It seemed that in the future, Concubine Liu''s position would only continue to rise. "Lower your voice, announce my arrival when we''re outside the room." "Don''t speak too loudly and startle the little princess, but don''t suddenly make a sound and scare her either," Xiao Yunzhou instructed as they arrived at Donghua Pce. Wei Zheng: "..." For goodness sake, how was he supposed to announce their arrival? He didn''t know what to do anymore. Should he speak loudly or softly? Xiao Yunzhou stopped five steps away from the room, signaling to Wei Zheng with his eyes. Wei Zheng quickly spoke, neither too loud nor too soft, "His Majesty the Emperor has arrived¡ª" But as soon as thest syble fell, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. Xiao Yunzhou heard the little princess''s somewhat troubled thoughts from inside the room. [Oh no, Duoti''s loyalty level is stuck at 41%.] [We''ve already used all the new tricks that mother and uncle came up with, yet we''re still so far frompleting the task. What should we do?] Xiao Yunzhou immediately frowned. But then he felt a surge of joy¡ªovernight, the task progress had already reached forty percent. The remainingrge portion wasn''t a problem; his little princess needn''t worry. He, as her imperial father, would find a way to consult with the Duke of Dinguo. It was time for him, the emperor father, to put in some effort! But in just a moment, Xiao Yunzhou''s confidence vanished into thin air. [Well, even though my mother can leave the pce, she can''t enter the military camp.] [It''s going to be really difficult for Duoti''s loyalty to my mother to increase any further.] "???" Huh? Xiao Yunzhou was dumbfounded. Wait a minute. How did Duoti''s loyalty suddenly be about Concubine Liu? In a sh of insight, Xiao Yunzhou pped his thigh as he remembered the two envoys from Wu Yun Country and their adoration, worship, and envy of "having a formidable wife" when buying horses! Heavens above. Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. It seemed these grasnd people respected women more than men? With this thought, Xiao Yunzhou felt that everything fell into ce and made sense! [Oh, I wonder if Duoti''s loyalty would increase upon meeting my mother?] [I remember there used to be examples of female leaders visiting wounded soldiers.] [But our current Emperor father probably hasn''t thought of this approach.] How could he not think of it? "Ahem." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze shifted. He immediately took advantage of the daylight to strut into the inner chamber, looking towards Liu Chaniang, who never let go of her down jacket. "Well then, Concubine Liu, get yourself ready." "You''ll apany me to visit the Capital Camp." Wei Zheng: "!" Chapter 150 The news that the Emperor had asked Concubine Liu to apany him to the Thousand-Man Guard of the Capital Camp spread quickly to the various main pces of the harem. Where there are people, there are spies. Empress Tong in Kunning Pce and the former Noble Consort Fucha, who was confined to her own pce, both doubted their ears when they heard this news. "When has the Emperor ever let me visit the military camp to boost morale?!" Empress Tong and former Noble Consort Fucha were both incredulous. "Who does Concubine Liu think she is?" "Even if she''s a female official, converted to the civil official rank, she''s nothing more than a lowly ninth-rank petty official!" "Does she think she''s equivalent to the Chief Grand Secretary?" "This is outrageous!" Compared to former Noble Consort Fucha, who could only curse a few times to vent her anger, Empress Tong was even more infuriated. "I, the Empress, am not dead yet! Does the Emperor still see me in his eyes?" "How can the Emperor take Concubine Liu tofort the troops in the capital? How dare he take Concubine Liu!" The Empress was losing her mind. If being temporarily stripped of her management rights in the pce was like blood flowing from her heart, losing face and power, then the Emperor not taking her, the Empress, but instead taking Concubine Liu out of the pce to the military camp was like pping her face repeatedly! Not only did her heart ache, but her face stung as well. If Concubine Liu really went, the whole world would know that she, the Empress, was inferior to others! The Empress, humiliated and enraged, stood up and shouted at her head maid, "Send a message to the Minister of Rites! Send a message to the Minister of War!" "I want to ask them, since when did the Emperor start disregarding the face of me, the Empress, and ignoring the rule that misceneous personnel are not allowed in military camps?!" ... Inside Donghua Pce. Liu Chaniang, having heard her daughter Chu Chu''s thoughts, was not surprised to hear that the Emperor wanted her to apany him. Instead, it was Consort Min and Chu Chu who looked astonished. Fortunately, Xiao Yunzhou liked to exin, "I saw a report a couple of days ago saying that the embroiderers outside the pce have rushed to produce another batch of down pants, which have already been received by the Ministry of Works. It''s perfect for you toe with me to distribute them." [Oh wow, the down pants are really here?] Most of the down-derived products that came from down jackets were managed by Liu Chaniang and Consort Min. But since they handed over the pce affairs, all down production had been handed over to Min Rou outside the pce to lead the embroiderers. Consort Min''s brother was responsible for collecting, washing, and drying duck down. Most down products werepleted outside the pce, and afterpletion, they were uniformly inspected and epted by the Ministry of Works. So the matter of down pants was actually first reported to Xiao Yunzhou by the Ministry of Works. [I can already see the skyrocketing Duoti followership~] Xiao Chuchu smiled contentedly. Xiao Yunzhou was also in a good mood. Soon the pce staff were ready, and he pulled Liu Chaniang onto the carriage. "Tell the cab that there will be no court session tomorrow." "If they have urgent memorials, have someone deliver them by express horse." "Oh, and suspend the princes'' studies for two days, have theme to the Capital Camp as well." Xiao Yunzhou thought as he gave orders, "The princes should also see thepetition and cooperation between the grasnds and our Jing Country. I don''t want to raise princes who don''t understand anything! Especially since the Little Princess predicted that in the future our country will perish, with no one capable and our military strength low." Xiao Yunzhou now ced great importance on the education of the princes and the cultivation of military strength. "Set off¡ª¡ª" [Ah, I''m finally going on a trip!] As soon as Xiao Chuchu got into the carriage, Liu Chaniang personally held her in her arms. Xiao Yunzhou wanted to snatch her, but he was a beat too slow. Although it would take half a day to get from the capital to the camp, the pce maids and eunuchs were well-trained and had loaded all the daily necessities and travel items onto the carriage. They swayed alongfortably, not feeling very tired at all. Xiao Yunzhou leaned against the carriage cushion for a while, then sat up straight and inspected the small golden cup for his daughter to drink water from, clean diapers, silk handkerchiefs to wipe his daughter''s face... and her ten sets of exquisite change of clothes and small capes, before nodding with satisfaction. "Hmm, this wet nurse is quite thoughtful." Liu Chaniang was about to respond when she heard her daughter''s stomach rumble loudly. [Oh my god, as soon as we leave, I want to eat a hamburger.] [Emmm, spicy chicken burger, Filet-O-Fish... who understands?] The carriage had a heater set up for fear of the Emperor getting cold, and with the curtains drawn, it felt like a warm spring day. Xiao Chuchu, wearing a down jacket, felt as hot as Duoti. [At times like this, it''s best to have an ice-cold fizzy c, eat a hamburger, and have a pair of fried chicken wings. Original recipe fried chicken is good too, ah, I miss it so much.] You crave what youck. Xiao Chuchu deeply felt this at the moment. [I mean, if there''s no iced c, even a spicy chicken burger would be good~] What''s that? Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang both pricked up their ears. Han bao? [Oh, I really want to eat it, the more I think about it, the hungrier I get, I don''t want milk...] [When can I eat a hamburger, with sesame seeds on the bun, soft and warm, with crispy fried chicken fillet inside...] [Spicy chicken wings, chicken nuggets... popcorn chicken... french fries...] It all sounds fried? This doesn''t seem difficult. Xiao Yunzhou instantly felt that this was simple. If the Little Princess wanted to eat fried food, how could they not have it? [Ah, these hamburgers are so suitable for eating on the road.] [We used to bring them when catching trains or nes.] [No soup or liquid, not easy to spill, convenient to hold in hand, wrapped in paper, hands don''t even get dirty after eating.] As Xiao Chuchu kept thinking about it, she got so hungry her eyes were seeing stars, and Liu Chaniang immediately called for the wet nurse to quickly take her to feed. Xiao Yunzhou was impressed, "This child..." She made herself dizzy with hunger, how could this be. He didn''t know what to say. "When Chu Chu grows up and can run around, we must find someone to keep a close eye on her. We can''t have her running off with someone just because she smells some food outside." Now Xiao Yunzhou was really worried. No, he must definitely work the pce chefs hard, in the future all the delicacies of the world must be avable in the Jing Country imperial pce! He was determined not to let the Little Princess run off with anyone else! As Xiao Yunzhou pondered this ''han bao'', Liu Chaniang was also somewhat concerned. They would create everything their daughter thought of and desired, would she be suspicious one day? How would they exin to their daughter that they could hear her thoughts? Would it frighten her? Liu Chaniang was now a bit conflicted. But soon she had no time to worry, as they were approaching the military camp, Xiao Chuchu, who had excitedly stayed uptest night to watch the ''live broadcast'', was sleeping like the dead, while their carriage was stopped a hundred meters away from the military camp by the Minister of War and the Imperial Censor. The military camp was right before their eyes, but the Minister of War and Imperial Censor blocked their way. "Your Majesty, bringing a concubine and princess into the military camp is against the rules!" "We request that Your Majesty visit the troops alone." Liu Chaniang remained rtively calm, but Xiao Yunzhou''s face changed. "How dare you! Step aside!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrow twitched. Joking aside, if Concubine Liu couldn''t enter, how could he go in alone? Oh, he wished he could! But that Duoti from the grasnds, one of the 108 elites recognized by the celestial realm, only acknowledged Concubine Liu. What could he do? Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes and took a deep breath. "I have my reasons for this decision." During their half-day journey, he hadn''t heard a single thought from the Little Princess about Duoti''s progress. What did that mean? It meant this task wasn''t something just anyone could do. Even he, the emperor, couldn''t manage it. Only Concubine Liu could. "Your Majesty, may I ask which ancestral rule you''re following by bringing a concubine into the camp?" the Imperial Censor protested. Even the Minister of War frowned. "Even if Concubine Liu is a female official, traditionally civil and military affairs don''t mix. For a civil official to enter the camp, there must be a valid reason." "May we ask, what is the reason today?" Xiao Yunzhou''s expression darkened. This task from the celestial realm wasn''t something that stubborn and foolish mortals like the Minister of War had the right to know about. Sigh. As Xiao Yunzhou worried, his gaze suddenly fell upon the Little Princess, still sound asleep in the carriage, undisturbed by themotion. His eyes lit up, and he looked at Liu Chaniang. "Ahem, Concubine Liu just told me she''s thought of a new type of military ration called ''sweat buns.''" Liu Chaniang: "..." The Minister of War and Imperial Censor: "?" "Ah, if only the Ministry of War were half as clever as Concubine Liu, would I need to rush here for days, bringing her to the camp?" Chapter 151 "Instant noodles and mutton soup are good, but they can''t be used when we''re about to set off quickly," Duoti, who had been training outside the camp with the Jing Country army for half a day, advised the grasnd subordinates beside him. Ba Tu, who had previously been the most disrespectful and looked down on the small stature of the Jing Country soldiers, now had eyes full of anticipation and hope. He trained hard with the Jing Country soldiers, just waiting to have another taste of mutton soup or instant noodles. Ba Tu hadn''t tried instant noodles yet, and his eyes were full of expectation. But Hou Yuchuan''s subordinates, who trained with them, were alreadyughing, "We can''t eat that all the time. When we return to camp, we''ll eat proper meals." "Instant noodles are good, but they''re also rationed. They''re only used for urgent travel, and even then, only elite troops get them." Guards who didn''t perform well wouldn''t even qualify. "The mutton soup was actually concocted by the camp''s cooks themselves, that''s why you got to taste it, Ba Tu." With these words, Ba Tu''s face crumpled from its usual square, masculine shape into a mask of pain. "Lord Duoti, when we go back, could you tell the Khan to learn how to make these instant noodles and distribute them among our elite grasnd troops?" Ba Tu asked, while the other grasnd cavalry looked expectantly at Duoti. Duoti''s throat bobbed. Learn to make Jing Country''s instant noodles? "Or we could trade horses for them! Lord Duoti, have you heard? These noodles can be stored for quite a long time." Duoti''s noble eyebrows furrowed together. Trade with Jing Country for noodles? Not only was it unclear if this was a good deal, but he had also received a hefty gift from the King of Chu to sabotage the rtionship between the grasnds and Jing Country. Once the rtionship was broken, Jing Country wasn''t stupid. Would they still teach them or sell to them? "Ahem, we spend our days on horseback, so soups and broths aren''t suitable," Duoti shook his head. "When you''re really in the camp, you''ll see that the Jing Country soldiers also eat food cooked in the mess hall. Isn''t freshly cooked food more fragrant than instant?" Ba Tu''s lips twitched. He actually thought the instant noodles smelled better. The less he could have them, the more fragrant they seemed. Seeing Ba Tu''s greedy look, Duoti patiently persuaded him, "With silver coins, isn''t it better to return to the grasnds and drink wine and eat meat inrge quantities? These noodles are gone in one bite, who can get full on that?" Ba Tu drooped his shoulders, disappointed but still nodded, "That''s true. We''d be afraid of spilling the soup while riding, and the strong smell isn''t very practical." * In the camp, the kitchen soldiers and wounded soldiers who remained behind weed the arrival of Xiao Yunzhou, apanied by Concubine Liu, as well as the Minister of War and court officials. "Channiang, what did you tell me before? That instant noodles have too much soup and a strong smell, so they''re not suitable for rapid travel," Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly towards Liu Chaniang. "So, tell the kitchen about your idea for new military rations, let them try it out." Liu Chaniang''s eyebrows immediately twitched, and she barely restrained herself from turning back to look at the Little Princess who was left sleeping soundly in the carriage, apanied by Zhang Jia. "Hmm..." She had barely hesitated when Xiao Yunzhou took the initiative to speak for her. "I know that the Minister of War and court officials were impolite to you earlier, so it''s understandable that you''re angry and don''t want to speak now." The Minister of War and court officials: "..." "It''s alright, I''ll speak for you. You thought of applying the method of eating roast meat and roast duck to military marches." Xiao Yunzhou felt he was too brilliant,ing up with a way to smooth things over in an instant. "Since roast meat and kebabs can be wrapped in lettuce, and roast duck can be wrapped in pancakes to eat." "Why can''t we apply this to military rations?" "Fried foods and roast meats are easier to preserve." "Just use tbread to wrap a whole piece of roasted or fried chicken... add some lettuce, and like roast duck, spread a thinyer of sauce. Soldiers can hold it to eat, and it won''t be too dry." After finishing, Xiao Yunzhou patted Concubine Liu''s arm, signaling her to cooperate with him. "This idea of yours is excellent, Channiang." "Your Majesty..." Liu Chaniang''s face turned pink. She didn''t dare to take credit. But Xiao Yunzhou pressed her hand, "Don''t be modest." Well, there was no help for it. Only he, the emperor, could hear the Little Princess''s thoughts, so only he had to bear the burden of rying and advising Concubine Liu. "Well, Minister of War, what do you think?" Xiao Yunzhou looked at them and snorted. "You''re all so capable, abandoning your duties to intercept me. All day long, not thinking about your own responsibilities! You''re so eager to do these unnecessary things, acting on every rumor you hear." "!" The Minister of War and court officials were all embarrassed. In private, Xiao Yunzhou held Concubine Liu''s hand and said in a low voice, "Just pretend this Han wrap was your idea. I''m already the supreme ruler, I don''t need more achievements." He gazed deeply at Liu Chaniang. Liu Chaniang looked up at the emperor, then nodded with aplex expression, "In the future, this concubine will certainly strive harder to consider the welfare of the country and its people." She wouldn''t waste the Little Princess''s good intentions. Xiao Yunzhou nodded with satisfaction, "Mm. Not taking credit, not being arrogant, you are a good person." No wonder the Little Princess was reborn as her child. ... When Xiao Chuchu woke up from a deep sleep, the sun was already setting, painting the sky with rosy hues. From the camp''s kitchen, waves of fragrant smells were already wafting out. "Your Majesty¡ªthe military rations that Concubine Liu came up with have been prepared in several varieties. Please, Your Majesty and Concubine Liu, taste them." The head cook of the kitchen quickly brought out several iron tes. Xiao Chuchu was stunned when she heard this. [Huh? I just took a nap, and Mother invented something else?] Xiao Chuchu''s curious gaze moved to the iron tes and she was dumbfounded. [Holy crap, isn''t this the Old Beijing Chicken Roll?!] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang both jolted at the same time. Wasn''t it supposed to be a Han wrap? How did it turn into an Old Beijing Chicken Roll? They immediately looked at the iron tes brought out by the kitchen staff, and saw tbread wrapped around lettuce and fried chicken pieces... It was indeed rolled up! Not like a wrap. Hmm... Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. The kitchen had made a mistake. He quickly nced at Concubine Liu, then at the kitchen staff, "Ahem, I''ll give this food a new name. Let''s call it a chicken roll. How about that?" [Oh my god, how does my mother know about this thing?!] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth watered. [Is that sweet bean sauce inside? It really is the Old Beijing Chicken Roll!] [I never thought my mother was so smart, she directly invented Colonel Sanders'' dish, leaving no room for him!] Colonel Sanders? Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang''s eyes flickered with shock. Was that some kind of divine chef from the celestial realm? ["But this kind of junk food can''t be eaten too much, fried foods are unhealthy~"] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Liu Chaniang: "!" Ahem. Fortunately, the soldiers from the kitchen brought out more options - meat rolls wrapped in tbread, roasted meat wraps... giving them more choices to try. Xiao Yunzhou nced at these and finally rxed a bit. "Your Majesty, Commander Hou and Zhao Qianwei have returned with the troops from training!" The soldiers who had been out for a day of group training were back on schedule to eat! The clopping of cavalry hooves was apanied by shouts from some veteran soldiers, "Kitchen, hurry up with dinner, we''re so hungry our stomachs are touching our backbones!" "What''s going on? Why isn''t there any smoke from the cooking fires?" "No way? Don''t tell me we''ll have to go hungry!?" As the soldiers drew nearer, they finally noticed the emperor''s presence, as well as the cold, smokeless kitchen. The Minister of War''s mouth twitched as he coughed, "Ahem, Commander Hou, Zhao Qianwei, His Majesty has brought Concubine Liu to see you." "Concubine Liu has developed a new type of military ration for marching. Come quickly and try it." "!" While the other Jing Country soldiers hadn''t yet reacted, Duoti and the grasnd cavalry were already wide-eyed. What? Jing Country had new march rations again? Were these Jing Country soldiers here to fight or to eat? Howe they always had something delicious!? [Ding, Duoti''s loyalty level has increased to 47%.] Chapter 152 The Jing Country version of the Old Beijing chicken roll used the same sweet sauce that was traditionally paired with Jing roast duck. The fried chicken was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, wrapped in a soft tbread along with fresh, crisp lettuce. The bread was slightly thicker than the pancakes used for roast duck, providing a satisfying chew for the hungry soldiers who had been training all day. Combined with the rich, oily fried chicken, sweet sauce, and the refreshing crunch of vegetables, eachrge bite exploded with vor in their mouths. "This stuff is amazing!" one soldier eximed. "One isn''t enough to fill me up, but it''s substantial. I want three more!" another chimed in. Outside the military camp''s kitchen, a pack of hungry wolves eagerly awaited their turn. Fortunately, these rolled tbreads could be made quickly. [Hehe, fast food is truly an assembly line, churning out food at high speed.] [Unlike slow-cooked dishes that require simmering in rich broths.] Xiao Chuchu watched for a while, amused by the scene. She soon turned her attention to Duoti and the grasnd soldiers, observing as they devoured each roll in just a few bites, their eyes gleaming with delight. It wasn''t long before the camp''s kitchen staff began to improvise, inspired by these somewhat Western-style fried chicken rolls. They started wrapping all sorts of ingredients in tbreads. The kitchen was soon producing an impressive variety of rolls filled with shredded potatoes, cured meat, bean sprouts, and more. The speed of production was remarkable, andrge tters of diverse rolls were sent out in quick session. Duoti and the grasnd soldiers ate their fill, thoroughly enjoying the meal. The sophistication of Jing Country''s cuisine far exceeded their expectations. Even their military rations had such variety! "Today," announced Zhao Qianwei, the camp''smander-in-chief, as he approached the soldiers who were standing and eating, "these rolled tbreads were conceived by His Majesty the Emperor and Lady Consort Liu." Duoti was taken aback. Most of the Jing soldiers also paused their eating, looking gratefully towards the Emperor and Lady Consort Liu who stood nearby. "Your Majesty, would you like to say a few words?" Zhao Qianwei fawningly turned to Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou, basking in the soldiers'' grateful and admiring gazes, felt a surge of emotion. As he stepped forward, ready to praise himself, he began, "Today, I havee here to¡ª" Suddenly, he heard the Little Princess exim inwardly. [The leader is about to speak!] [Comrades, thank you for your hard work¡ª] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s prepared self-praise suddenly caught in his throat. The Little Princess''s inner voice, like a stroke of divine inspiration, had jolted his mind awake! ''Comrades, thank you for your hard work...''!? Was this how celestial leaders addressed their divine soldiers? It was truly earth-shattering, deafening, and deeply moving! Xiao Yunzhou''s face immediately flushed red in front of nearly a thousand soldiers. He was far inferior to the celestial leader! Embarrassed, Xiao Yunzhou awkwardly extended his hand, attempting to gloss over his interrupted speech. "Ahem, thank you all for your hard work," he managed to say. In an instant, all the soldiers'' eyes widened. What? The Emperor said they had... worked hard? The Emperor had just... waved at them? [Holy crap!] Even Xiao Chuchu was startled by her father''s body''s actions. [He''s even learned how to wave?] Xiao Yunzhou had no idea about any leader''s wave. He had stumbled upon it by ident, and coupled with his embarrassed blush, his expression was devoid of any imperial pride. He appeared even more approachable than Zhao Qianwei or Commander Hou. The soldiers were stunned. After a moment, someone choked back a sob. "I used to herd cattle, and even my father never told me I''d worked hard." This statement struck a chord, and several of the burly grasnd men behind Duoti visibly reacted. Herding cattle, herding sheep... this was something the grasnd people knew all too well! After all, they had grown up herding sheep since childhood! This single sentence instantly made the grasnd men empathize, reminding them of their own fathers, tribal leaders, and their Khan. "How... how can the Jing Emperor be so kind to his soldiers?" one of the grasnd warriors, who had previously looked down on the Jing army, couldn''t help but mutter in his heavily ented tribalnguage. "If only we could serve in the Jing army..." another sighed. "!" Duoti, hearing this, turned and sharply rebuked them, "Nonsense!" [Oh my, Duoti scolding his wavering subordinates, but his own loyalty score has risen to 54%...] [Wow, one sentence from Emperor Dad increased it more than the Old Beijing chicken rolls did earlier.] Xiao Chuchu was surprised to see the system''s notification message. Xiao Yunzhou was immediately ted. [Strange, how did Father''s words increase Duoti''s loyalty towards Mother?] Xiao Yunzhou''s joy quickly turned to dismay. Well, well, was he now considered an extension of Concubine Liu? Had he scored big points for her? Who would have thought that he, the supreme ruler, would ever be considered a woman''s essory? Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched as he turned to Liu Chaniang and hastily waved her over. "Concubine Liu,e here, say a few words." He refused to believe it! Would Concubine Liu''s words increase loyalty even more than his? Xiao Yunzhou was determined to find out. "Um, this meal isn''t even our best yet," Liu Chaniang said, blushing slightly as she stepped forward to address the soldiers, encouraged by Xiao Yunzhou. She had previously only interacted with people close to her family, never speaking in front of so many strangers. Let alone a group of virile soldiers. However, her recent experience leading the women in making cotton clothes had built up her confidence and experience somewhat. Liu Chaniang was nervous at first but quicklyposed herself. Remembering her daughter''s mentions of ''hamburgers'' and ''fried food being unhealthy,'' she decided to be honest with the soldiers. "I want to say that our military provisions, whether it''s food or equipment, are not yet at their best." The soldiers were taken aback. What? This wasn''t the best yet? Not only were the Jing soldiers surprised, but the grasnd men were also dumbfounded. How could it get any better? This food used so much oil and meat, how was it not good enough? These warm, cozy down jackets and quilts, how were they not good enough? How much better could it possibly get? Were they aiming for heaven? Nobody believed it. But Liu Chaniang continued, "In the future, not just me, but the women of the pce, the officials'' families, and even ordinary citizens, along with His Majesty, the officials, schrs, andmon people, will all use their wisdom to continually improve the provisions and equipment for our military..." "We are not just individuals, but a collective." Under the Little Princess''s guidance, Jing Country would only get better and better. Liu Chaniang hadplete faith in her daughter, and her words carried an air of unwavering conviction. "One day, our Jing Country''s military equipment will be the best!" "One day, our Jing Country''s soldiers will be the strongest!" "Thank you all for your hard work," Liu Chaniang concluded, echoing her daughter''s inner voice. The entire camp fell silent. Everyone was stunned, then their chests swelled with pride, and many eyes reddened with emotion! Apuse erupted ¨C starting with a single soldier, it quickly spread to ten, a hundred, a thousand... The excitement in the camp couldn''t be contained! "We are definitely the best!" "We have the best treatment, so we must live up to it and be the strongest soldiers!" "Lady Consort Liu spoke well!" The entire camp erupted! The thunderous apuse drowned out Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts, moving Xiao Yunzhou to the point where his eyes became a bit moist. Xiao Yunzhou looked at Liu Chaniang beside him, a glimmer of approval and surprise shing in his eyes. Howe he hadn''t noticed before that Concubine Liu had such capability? "I never knew you were so good with words, Chaniang," Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but praise. Liu Chaniang''s face reddened; she was just speaking the truth. They were supposed to make Chinese buns, but it turned out wrong, not at all what the Little Princess had in mind. Today, she couldn''t bring herself to praise these chicken rolls, so she could only say that they weren''t good enough yet. "This concubine is not good with words, I just thought of speaking the in truth." [Oh my, sincerity is indeed the greatest weapon!] Xiao Chuchu''s excited inner voice finally transmitted again as the thunderous apuse slowly subsided. Sincerity? Xiao Yunzhou was stunned for a moment. Then, he was shocked. [Wow, Duoti''s loyalty to my mother just broke through to 67%, rising by ten points in one go.] [The impact of my mother''s words is too powerful.] Xiao Yunzhou was astonished. He looked towards Duoti and saw that the sturdy, robust man was gazing at Concubine Liu with fervent eyes. "!" Chapter 153 Duoti''s progress in collecting elite talents had already reached nearly seventy out of a hundred? Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed. But then he became troubled. Duoti had already seen Concubine Liu''s down series, food series, and Liu Runnian''s water bottle series. Now, despite another heartfelt speech that moved the soldiers to tears, the progress was still far fromplete. Xiao Yunzhou fell into deep thought, pondering what to do next. "Commander Hou,e here." While the soldiers were still eating, Xiao Yunzhou called Hou Yuchuan into the tent alone. "You''ve been living and eating with Duoti and his grasnd cavalry these past two days. Have you noticed anything special? What do you think of their skills? How do they view our Jing Country?" Xiao Yunzhou was preparing to gather information. He wasn''t a fool to begin with, and having received skill books from the Immortal Realm through Little Ge-ge multiple times, his logical thinking abilities had improved significantly. Hou Yuchuan indeed had information. He nced outside the tent, his expression darkening, "Your Majesty, Duoti is a man of few words but fairly courteous. However, his subordinate Ba Tu is extremely dismissive of our Jing military forces." "Most of the other grasnd cavalry seem to share this attitude." Hou Yuchuan''s eyes were sharp, "I''m afraid they''re all approaching this exchange with the mindset of merely ying with our Jing soldiers." Xiao Yunzhou frowned. The grasnd people were indeed fierce and proud. Duoti, being recognized by the Immortal Realm for his charging abilities, was extremely skilled in breaking through enemy lines andunching attacks. The subordinates of such a person would never be docile and obedient. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. "Your Majesty, could you reconsider and allow me to lead a team of ten men to confront Duoti''s grasnd cavalry alone?" Hou Yuchuan was, after all, a military general with a fierce spirit that would bend but not break. He had long been unable to tolerate the grasnd people''s implicit and explicit disdain for their Jing soldiers. Now that the emperor had asked, Hou Yuchuan spoke directly, "Compared to joining forces with Duoti, I''d rather beat them into submission!" Xiao Yunzhou frowned, "Once We have given Our word, not even four horses can take it back." "Then tomorrow, may this subject have Zhao Qianwei organize a wrestling and horseback archerypetition within the camp for Your Majesty to observe?" Hou Yuchuan was still not giving up. "Your Majesty, I''ve been at the West Mountain Camp for thirteen years and have led troops in battle in Liaozhou. I know very well that Ba Tu''s arrogance won''t change unless we fight them!" As themander of West Mountain, Hou Yuchuan could tell at a nce which soldiers had an unyielding spirit that would only submit after being disciplined. "Hmm," Xiao Yunzhou nodded after pondering for a moment, "We trust you." Despite eating, drinking, and hearing kind words, Duoti still hadn''t met the conditions for submission. The problem stilly in the grasnd people''s disdain for Jing Country''s military prowess. It was time to let fists do the talking. Both soft and hard approaches were necessary. "Are you confident?" Xiao Yunzhou looked at Hou Yuchuan. Hou Yuchuan furrowed his brows, "There are a thousand men here. I don''t believe not a single one can match Duoti and his men." "Even if we have to wear them down, we''ll fight until they have no strength left to battle." [Wow, a war of attrition, huh.] Xiao Chuchu, behind the screen in the tent, was being held and fed water by Liu Chaniang. Hearing these words, she was stunned for a moment. [That''s right, militarypetitions aren''t just about individual strength. There''s nothing wrong with a war of attrition. We''re united as one, and we''ll fight to thest person, never giving up, never abandoning, never retreating!] Xiao Chuchu clenched her fist. Soon, her little fist raised to her mouth was gently lowered by Liu Chaniang, who fed her another spoonful of water with a mix of amusement and exasperation. Xiao Yunzhou, who had been listening intently, nodded, feeling more confident. Little Ge-ge was right. "Very well, We grant you permission," Xiao Yunzhou nodded to Hou Yuchuan, "You speak the truth. If We are afraid to lose, those soldiers outside would be even more fearful!" Hou Yuchuan''s eyes shone with excitement, "Your Majesty, rest assured. If this thousand-man unit isn''t enough, we have other units!" "I''ll go find Zhao Qianwei to select men right away!" Not long after, Zhao Qianwei led ten men in military attire, and Hou Yuchuan brought his own elite subordinates, ten in total, for Xiao Yunzhou''s inspection. Xiao Yunzhou immediately stood up and patted each of their shoulders, "Good, for every victory, We shall reward you handsomely¡ª" Before he could finish his sentence, Wei Zheng emerged from behind the screen with Little Ge-ge''s used diaper, intending to quietly pass behind the twenty elite soldiers. However, due to the limited space in the tent, he brushed against the armor of several soldiers. In that instant, a series of notifications rang out in Xiao Chuchu''s mind behind the screen. [Ding, Chen Jin, Combat Power 85, immense strength in both arms, old injury in left ankle, rmend soaking feet in hot water daily,bined with acupuncture.] [Ding, Liu Changhe, Combat Power 89, stable lower body, no injuries, but right shoulder muscles overworked from long-term training, rmend acupuncture for rxation, can help speed up recovery and increase strength.] "!" Xiao Chuchu immediately stopped drinking water. [Oh my, is the royal physician here?] Xiao Yunzhou was startled for a moment, his gaze instantly falling on Wei Zheng''s... diaper in hand. His eyes gradually lit up, "Wei Zheng, stop. Don''t move while We''re speaking." "?" "Someone, go call Duoti and his men here." ... "Hmph, how naive and ignorant. The Jing Country emperor is looking down on us!" As soon as Ba Tu received Xiao Yunzhou''s summons, heined with ring eyes. "We''ve beenssoing horses since childhood, even taming wild horses, and wrestling since we were young... and now they want topete with us in this?" "If this isn''t looking down on us, then the Jing Country emperor must be a fool!" Heined directly in fluent grasndnguage, not caring whether the Jing soldiers who summoned them could understand or not. Duoti frowned, "Ba Tu!" "Am I wrong? Lord Duoti,peting with them!" Ba Tu snorted, clenching his fists, "Didn''t Jing Country say whoever is stronger gets down jackets and quilts? We''re stronger than them, let the Jing Country emperor give them to us, and instant noodles too!" Duoti was speechless; Ba Tu was still thinking about this. He had already told him that instant noodles weren''t filling, and too much soup was inconvenient. He was still acting like a child. "Put away that attitude of yours, let''s go." Duoti gave him a hard pat. Soon, Duoti and his subordinates arrived at the emperor''s tent, listening to Xiao Yunzhou speak about the martial artspetition. Then Xiao Yunzhou spoke, "We treat everyone equally. Just as We had Our Little Ge-ge bless the Jing Country''s elite soldiers earlier, now We''ll have Our Little Ge-ge bless you as well." Duoti was taken aback. He had been avoiding the tiny Little Ge-ge at all costs. If anything were to happen, not only would it rupture rtions between the two countries, but he, Duoti, would also be finished! Moreover, he disdained the idea of harming such a small child. Duoti would never harm women or children. But he soon realized he had overthought the situation. What appeared before him was not a child, but Wei Zheng holding a child''s diaper. Duoti: "?" Ba Tu: "?" No, Jing Country was too strange. They just blessed them like that? "If you don''t believe me, ask Hou Yuchuan. Didn''t I just bless them the same way?" "...!" * Xiao Chuchu, who had been carried by Liu Chaniang to a separate small resting tent, had a dazed look in her eyes. [Oh my, Ba Tu''s strength is only 86, but the power and agility of his waist, abdomen, and legs are 30% higher than our Jing soldiers.] [Wow, his wrestling skill is maxed out at LV5!] [His only weakness is that six years ago, an arrow hit his left shoulder de. Due to poor medical skills, a broken arrowhead fragment remains embedded in his flesh.] [Hey, the system congrattes me for verifying a hidden character.] [Duoti''s most beloved subordinate ¡ª Ba Tu.] [Unlocked the test rewritten'' plot of the novel: Jing Country establishes diplomatic rtions with the grasnd country of Wu Yun. Soldiers from both countries engage in martial artspetitions. However, after three consecutive rounds ofbat, the arrowhead fragment in Ba Tu''s left shoulder de moves into his cardiopulmonary area. Ba Tu ultimately dies at the hands of his fourth wrestling opponent, Hou Yuchuan...] [From then on, Jing Country and Duoti be irreconcble, and rtions with the grasnds be precarious.] Xiao Chuchu was stunned. [Wait, what does this mean? What does test rewritten'' plot of the novel mean?] [Are the novel''s plot points rted to Jing Country constantly changing due to my butterfly effect, yet an invisible hand still grips our throats?] Hearing her daughter''s words, Liu Chaniang''s face turned pale. [Damn, we can''t let Hou Yuchuan and Ba Tu face each other!] [No, we can''t let Ba Tupete in three consecutive rounds!] Chapter 154 Xiao Chuchu was quite shocked. [Oh my, who is this person?] [Sange,bat prowess 91, skilled in horseback archery and wrestling, but he has high blood pressure?] [Wait, isn''t high blood pressure a modern disease?] [Grasnd people already have it now? Oh right, they eat less grain and more meat, with much higher fat, protein and dairy intake than other regions.] [Plus they like to drink strong alcohol, and some grasnd areas are at high altitude, which can also cause high blood pressure.] [Goodness, why has my diaper touched so many people?] [How did I suddenly get so much information aboutbat abilities and physical conditions?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t figure it out. She realized that checkingbat prowess, which originally required touching the person, now only needed contact with their clothing. She was currently sitting in the tent, but information wasing from outside. [This is so strange, what''s going on? Has my skill for checkingbat prowess malfunctioned?] With a cough, Xiao Yunzhou, standing outside the tent, spoke softly, "Has the little princess been wrapped well in the quilt? I''ming in now. The draft won''t make the little princess cold, will it?" Liu Chaniang hurriedly replied, "She''s wrapped up well. Your Majesty, pleasee in." Only then did Xiao Yunzhou carefully lift the tent p just enough for half a person to pass through, squeezed in, and then sealed it tightly shut again. He didn''t even let Wei Zheng follow him in. "Everyone stand back, the little princess is about to sleep," Xiao Yunzhou ordered from inside the tent. Immediately, Wei Zheng''s voice could be heard outside, directing the guards to move away. Xiao Yunzhou then looked at his daughter in the swaddling cloth with relief and began to tell a lie - no, a well-intentioned cover-up. "Chaniang, isn''t it strange? The grasnd people say they have a custom of touching a newborn''s diaper as a blessing." "I had no choice but to let Wei Zheng take our little princess''s used diaper and let Ba Tu and the others touch it." Liu Chaniang: "..." "Since they have this custom and havee to Jing Country, we should respect it, don''t you think?" Xiao Yunzhou fabricated. After all, Ba Tu and the others wouldn''t bring this up in front of the little princess for no reason. [Gosh, that''s so gross...] Xiao Chuchu heard this and felt dizzy. But that wasn''t important. There had been too many system notifications aboutbat prowess and physical information just now, and she was still anxious to review them. [Oh no, another person with high blood pressure.] [Wow, this Xiximu has abat prowess of 93, very high, but he can only utilize 85% of it now.] [He actually has post-war PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder, a psychological illness after war. He sometimes experiences auditory hallucinations, mental tension, insomnia... He only feels better when he''s in the military camp, surrounded by hisrades.] Xiao Yunzhou listened in bewilderment, what disease was this? He had never heard of it before. [Oh my, so many injuries, not just physical but also psychological.] [Whether it''s our Jing Country or the grasnds, those who have served in the military for over five years and been on real battlefields and fought have some old injuries and ailments.] Xiao Chuchu possessed the skill to checkbat prowess. But there was a daily limit, and she couldn''t check too many people. After checking several grasnd people, she was prompted by the system that she could only purchase new checks with points. [This is so frustrating. Should I bite the bullet and use points to exchange for thebat prowess of the remaining four people?] [I want to see the physical conditions of the remaining four grasnd people.] But when Xiao Yunzhou heard this, he stood up abruptly in rm. The needlework in Liu Chaniang''s hands suddenly stopped, her face filled with worry. The little princess wanted to exchange points... Those points must be some kind of celestial power! She was so young, her body not yet fully developed. What if excessive use of celestial power caused irreversible damage? "Earlier, Your Majesty said you brought me tofort the soldiers, but I feel guilty for not having done anything," Liu Chaniang didn''t want her young daughter to bear so much. Even if it meant revealing to the emperor that she could hear her daughter''s thoughts, she had no choice! As long as the little princess was alright. "Even that chicken roll wasn''t really something I brought for the soldiers." "I feel like I should do something." "But I really don''t have the strength to get up." Liu Chaniang pondered, then frowned and rubbed her waist and legs, looking listless. "What''s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?" Xiao Yunzhou was rmed and quickly approached her. [Oh no, what''s wrong with my mother? I was busy checking these people''sbat prowess. Oh well, maybe I should exchange for one check to see my mother''s condition~] Xiao Chuchu became anxious. Liu Chaniang quickly said, "I''m fine, maybe it''s because I sat in the carriage for most of the day without proper rest, then stood for half an hour. I''m a bit tired." Thinking for a moment, Liu Chaniang looked thoughtfully at Xiao Yunzhou, "I feel that just half a day in the carriage has made my back and waist ache and feel very ufortable. The soldiers train hard every day, in wind and rain, surely enduring much more hardship." "Would it be possible to invite doctors to give free consultations to the soldiers?" [Ah!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes lit up. Xiao Yunzhou heard this and pped his thigh, "What a great idea, Liu Chaniang! You''re so clever." [Oh, this way I won''t need to spend points to check the remainingbat prowess.] [I''ll leave everyone''s health to the doctors then~] Xiao Chuchu breathed a sigh of relief. Otherwise, dealing with matters of life and death would put too much pressure on her. [My mother is so amazing.] Xiao Yunzhou nodded repeatedly, full of praise for Liu Chaniang''s idea, "You''re right, women are indeed more attentive to details. I certainly brought the right person when I brought you tofort the soldiers." "Come here! Call the Minister of War and that damned censor!" In just a few minutes, Xiao Yunzhou was scolding people outside the tent. "Go find nearby doctors, and send a fast horse to the pce to summon Chief Physician Hu of the Imperial Medical Academy. Organize a medical examination for the army." "Nonsense, I know there are military doctors here! But there''s only one military doctor, how long would it take to examine a thousand soldiers?" [Oh dear, usually people only go to see the military doctor when they feel unwell.] [But often by the time symptoms appear, the illness is already quite serious.] [And some people are reluctant to seek medical attention, thinking they can just endure it, which often means missing the best treatment window.] On this matter, Xiao Chuchu agreed with her mother and father. [My mother is right. This is just like modern regr health checkups~ Providing free annual checkups is very necessary.] Health checkups! Xiao Yunzhou, in the middle of scolding the Minister of War, suddenly grabbed onto his daughter''s key phrase. Annual health checkups. Yes, that''s right, just like that. Xiao Yunzhou felt more confident now. "Don''t waste time with words. How could I possibly harm you? Ignoring an illness only leads to small problems spreading from the surface to the internal organs, causing major issues." Even the celestial realm had health check-ups, let alone his small Jing Country. "Tonight, we''ll conduct free medical examinations. Everyone must participate." "I and Consort Liu havee here to ensure the best protection for every soldier of Jing Country!" Within an hour, these words spread throughout the entire military camp. Both the Jing soldiers and people like Duoti felt somewhat bewildered. They were skeptical. Even Hou Yuchuan opposed it, saying, "We have wrestling matches tomorrow. Why are we doing medical examinations now? We have our own military doctors. Why do we need outside physicians, let alone involve the Imperial Academy of Medicine?" "Those with serious illnesses or disabilities are already resting at home. If the Imperial Academy of Medicine wants to help, they should visit our veterans'' homes," Hou Yuchuan suggested, pulling the Minister of War aside. Ah, the Emperor was too young. He didn''t understand that those remaining in the military camp were all healthy. The truly injured or disabled had long since retired from military service and returned home with their ailments. The imperial physicians should be visiting their homes! Hou Yuchuan felt the Emperor was being naive. However... half a dayter. Chief Physician Hu of the Imperial Medical Academy, who arrived with the prince''s carriage, paid his respects to the Emperor and Consort Liu before immediately beginning to examine the pulses of the camp''s elite soldiers. His diagnoses were spot on. "Is your left shoulder stiff and numb?" This was to one of Zhao Qianwei''s soldiers. The man''s face twitched in surprise. "How... how did you know?" "Have you ever been shot by an arrow?" This was to Ba Tu. Ba Tu''s jaw dropped. "That was years ago. You can still tell?" "Do you often get headaches and suffer from insomnia when you leave the camp?" This was to the grasnds warrior with post-war PTSD. This time, not only was the person in question stunned, but even leaders like Duoti, Hou Yuchuan, and Zhao Qianwei were shocked. Watching their astonished expressions, Chief Physician Hu''s mind was also in turmoil. The Emperor''s medical skills were truly exceptional! Who on earth had taught the Emperor? To have trained the Emperor to such a high level of medical expertise, that master must be incredibly skilled! Chapter 155 Inside the military tent, Head Imperial Physician Hu sat in a row with other doctors, examining pulses one after another. After examining several people, both Head Imperial Physician Hu and those whose pulses were checked had shocked expressions on their faces. Duoti, Hou Yuchuan, Zhao Qianwei, and others all wore solemn looks. "Is it true? Do you really have this problem?" "Is your shoulder still hurting?" "Why have you never seen a military doctor before?" They were all questioning their subordinates. They had thought their men were in good health, but it turned out they all had various ailments. Duoti, Hou Yuchuan, and Zhao Qianwei were also battle-hardened veterans with old wounds, but they had toughed it out back then and now felt their injuries weren''t serious. They had assumed their subordinates were the same. "You can''t sleep and have headaches? What''s that about?" Duoti red at the subordinate being diagnosed by Head Imperial Physician Hu. He had never known about this! The subordinate broke out in a cold sweat, "It only happens when I leave the camp and go home. At night when I lie down, I hear the sound of horse hooves. I get up to look, but there are no horses passing by. I can''t fall asleep and my head aches terribly." [Oh, this is a symptom of post-war PTSD. After being in a high-stress state for a long time, even experiencing the trauma ofrades dying beside them, when they return to a quiet, safe space, they find it difficult to shake off this state of high tension. Instead, they develop symptoms of panic like auditory hallucinations.] Xiao Chuchu, held in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, entered the tent and observed the full-scale physical examination. As soon as they entered, the father and daughter heard the response of this soldier suffering from post-war psychological issues. "But Lord Duoti, it''s fine. As soon as I''m back in the camp or on the battlefield, I don''t have this problem. I don''t hear these confusing sounds anymore." [Ah,] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but sigh inwardly, [Unable to self-regte, the tense state that can''t be rxed is actually masked when returning to the war zone and fully entering a truebat state.] [But this will only lead to a vicious cycle. If not treated promptly, he might be trapped in this highly tense state of war readiness for life, unable to break free.] [He''s forever at war, controlled by the fear, vignce, and heightened emotions of conflict.] Hearing his daughter''s thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression grew serious. If the grasnd people had such psychological problems, his Jing Country soldiers might have them too. "This problem needs to be addressed," Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but interject, "So every time you go home, you''re in agony? You can''t even rest when facing your own wife and children?" The grasnd man''s expression froze. Duoti frowned at his subordinate. What kind of strange illness was this? It''s not like he could stay in the camp forever! Would he still be riding into battle when he''s old? "How can this be treated? Is there a way to cure it?" Duoti couldn''t help but look towards Head Imperial Physician Hu. Head Imperial Physician Hu had examined over a dozen people in session. Hearing this, he paused, about to shake his head, but noticing the Emperor had arrived, he hurriedly stood up to pay his respects before nodding, "I''ll do my best to try." He wasn''t very confident about treating delusions, as medical texts didn''t cover much on the subject. But since the Emperor knew about this illness and had just given him a hint, he estimated the Emperor must have a way to treat it. If not, there were still experts behind the Emperor! "Since we''ve discovered it early, there must be a way," Head Imperial Physician Hu said. Duoti breathed a sigh of relief, but then noticed that Head Imperial Physician Hu''s gaze was not rxed at all. Instead, it had shifted to two of his other subordinates. Head Imperial Physician Hu looked at Ba Tu and another grasnd warrior, as well as an elite Jing soldier. He quickly nced at Xiao Yunzhou, his face showing an expression of admiration, and said: "As for these three soldiers, they should rest in the camp for the next few days and cooperate with my acupuncture and medication." "All their food and drink must be arranged ording to my instructions. Otherwise, I''m afraid something terrible might happen." "!?" "???" "..." Everyone was stunned. Ba Tuughed heartily, refuting in his broken Jingnguage, "What terrible thing could happen to me? This arrow wound just left a scar that hasn''t faded, nothing else hurts." But as soon as he finished speaking, Head Imperial Physician Hu frowned deeply and put down his acupuncture kit with a thud. "Your condition is the most serious!" "If you move, at worst you could die, at best you could damage your lungs!" The entire tent fell silent. Everyone looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu in shock, then at the bear-like Ba Tu. They had trained together for a day, and even the Jing soldiers who didn''t know Ba Tu before could feel his strength. They had no doubt that Ba Tu was naturally powerful, probably the strongest in the camp. But what was the doctor saying? Ba Tu''s condition was the most serious, and he could possibly die if he wasn''t careful? Not only Ba Tu himself, but even the other Jing soldiers didn''t believe it. Hou Yuchuan was dumbfounded, "Head Imperial Physician Hu, could you perhaps diagnose him again? Might there have been a mistake earlier? Warrior Ba Tu is as lively as a dragon. We were nning to have a sparring match with him in the next couple of days." "A sparring match?" Head Imperial Physician Hu immediately red, "You want him dead!" Duoti and Ba Tu''s faces darkened. Ba Tu directly roared in defiance, "I''m standing right here, he couldn''t kill me even if he tried!" "But if the arrow fragment in your body enters your heart vessels, it can send you to your death!" Head Imperial Physician Hu shouted back. In an instant, Ba Tu was stunned. Even Hou Yuchuan was shocked. [Oh, thank goodness, the Imperial Physician figured it out and can stop Ba Tu from participating in this wrestling match.] [This way, Ba Tu won''t die tragically at Commander Hou''s hands.] Xiao Chuchu breathed a sigh of relief. The Emperor''s expression rxed considerably. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, please exin the situation clearly to Warrior Ba Tu and General Duoti," Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly. Head Imperial Physician Hu hurriedly bowed respectfully to Xiao Yunzhou, his face unable to hide his admiration, "Thanks to Your Majesty calling me here to check Warrior Ba Tu''s pulse." "The arrow wound he received five or six years ago still has a small fragment that was never removed." "It seems harmless now, but it has almost reached the heart vessels. If he engages in vigorous activity, it could enter the heart vessels and cause death." "I dare not conceal anything. May I ask Warrior Ba Tu, have you recently experienced asional chest tightness or slight pain?" Ba Tu''s expression darkened. He had felt it yesterday after finishing military training, but he thought it was just because he wasn''t used to the environment in Jing Country... Duoti turned his head, and seeing this expression, he knew the doctor''s words were true. At once, he became anxious, "Is there a way to treat it?" Head Imperial Physician Hu frowned, "First, we''ll use acupuncture and medication, then see if we need to reopen the old wound to remove the fragment." Duoti furrowed his brow. On the grasnds, many people who had been hit by arrows died of high fever after the arrowheads were removed. Few survived. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, are you confident?" Xiao Yunzhou spoke up. "If we halt all military training and fully cooperate with me, I currently have a 20-30% chance of sess," Head Imperial Physician Hu sighed softly, his face filled with shame. But Ba Tu''s eyes lit up. A 30% chance? Previously, the grasnd doctor said it couldn''t be done, that another attempt would be fatal. For the harsh environment of the grasnds,cking in proper medicine and constantly on the move, a 30% chance was already remarkably high! Duoti''s expression improved somewhat. However, Head Imperial Physician Hu still felt ashamed. Looking towards Xiao Yunzhou, he apologized, "Your Majesty, I am ipetent." "Compared to Your Majesty, I am truly far inferior..." "Ahem, ahem!" Xiao Yunzhou blushed as he stopped the Head Imperial Physician from his misguided praise. Sure enough, Xiao Chuchu began to mutter to herself, [This is essentially surgery. In ancient times, apart from anesthesia techniques, infection during and after the operation was a major problem.] [Ah, if only I could draw a surgery-rted skill. It could be used for Jing Country''s soldiers and civilians alike.] Just as she was muttering, her expression suddenly changed. [Holy crap, speak of the devil!] [Spend 100 points to exchange for a simplified version of anesthesia and sterilization techniques?] "Ahem." As Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat, he abruptly changed the subject upon hearing this. He nodded to Head Imperial Physician Hu, "We''ll discuss this in detailter." Head Imperial Physician Hu''s eyes lit up. He knew it, he just knew it. If the Emperor couldn''t find a solution, the expert behind the Emperor would surely have one! After the gue prescription, would he be able to learn new medical techniques again? "Well, if you give me some time," Head Imperial Physician Hu turned to Ba Tu and Duoti, trying to impress them, "I might have a 40-50% chance of sess, perhaps even more." Ba Tu and Duoti: "!" "Alright then, you may continue. I won''t stay here and get in the way," said the Emperor. "This time, it was thanks to Concubine Liu''s reminder that I thought of asking the imperial physicians to examine everyone." "Unexpectedly, they truly discovered an issue. In the next couple of days, let''s have other imperial physicianse and thoroughly examine our soldiers." [Oh, Duoti''s loyalty has increased to 73%!] Chapter 156 The full-scale physical examinationssted for three days. Every day, not only did the imperial physicians diagnose the soldiers one by one, but Xiao Chuchu also exhausted her daily body-checking skills. Xiao Chuchu discovered two more Jing Country soldiers with post-war psychological issues, and one old patient who needed to have their wound reopened. Head Imperial Physician Hu worked from dawn to dusk, poring over ancient texts in search of traditional remedies for external injuries. Two military doctors were urgently summoned from the West Mountain Camp. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, treating the soldiers'' injuries is our responsibility!" After meticulously examining Ba Tu, the three military doctors frowned and surrounded Head Imperial Physician Hu as they exited the tent. "You imperial physicians may be miracle workers when ites to treating the Emperor and Empress, but you''re not fit to meddle in our military affairs!" "How can you spout such nonsense?" "It''s impossible. What''s this about having a 30% chance? Oh, and in a few days, you think you cane up with a method that has a 40-50% chance? Bullshit!" "I''ve treated at least eight hundred external injuries, if not a thousand. How many arrow wounds have you, an imperial physician, dealt with in the pce all day?" The three military doctors all thought Head Imperial Physician Hu had a problem, and not a minor one¡ªarrogance. Just because he treated the Emperor, he thought he could cure all illnesses in the world. Wrong! "Have you ever seen an arrow wound?" The old military doctor under Zhao Qianwei, surnamed Meng and named Chun, looked thin and dark but had a pair of skilled hands. He was steady and quick when dealing with external injuries. "Have you ever seen a bone injury? Do you know what everyone here calls me?" Head Imperial Physician Hu''s mouth twitched as he stepped back, "Meng Chun, speak properly, don''t spit while you talk." "Hmph, I''m spitting at you!" Meng Chun red. "You barely deal with arrow wounds all year round, yet you dare to boast. If your master knew, he''d crawl out of his grave to beat you!" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "...What does my master have to do with you!" "Hmph!" Meng Chun turned his head away. The two of them were from different schools of medicine. The Meng family had been skilled in treating external injuries, bone injuries, and bruises for three generations, while Head Imperial Physician Hu belonged to the orthodox internal medicine lineage. To be honest, when it came to treating external and bone injuries, Head Imperial Physician Hu was indeed no match for Meng Chun, the military doctor. Both in skill and experience, there was a significant gap. Head Imperial Physician Hu, in fact, hadn''t initially nned to do it all by himself. "Meng Skillful Hands, you can perform the operation to dig out the fragments, and I''ll be responsible for Ba Tu''s post-injury recuperation." "I won''t do it," Meng Chun tly refused. The other two military doctors also shook their heads repeatedly. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, you''d better exin clearly to the Emperor. Ba Tu''s old injury has persisted for years. Even if we had treated it at the time, there would have been a great risk." "You may be unfamiliar with arrow wounds, but most arrows from the grasnd tribes have barbs, and the force of a single arrow is tremendous. When the arrow shatters inside the body, both the wooden fragments and arrowhead can explode within." The two military doctors furrowed their brows. "Now, we don''t know how many fragments are in Ba Tu''s body or where they''ve moved to. Perhaps only by opening up the flesh can we know. But how deep and how wide should we cut? Do you know, Head Imperial Physician Hu?" "If the fragments aren''t in the same location and there''s more than one piece, how do you n to deal with it, Head Imperial Physician Hu? If we can''t remove them all at once and some remain, what''s the point of reopening the old wound?" All three military doctors opposed Head Imperial Physician Hu''s aggressive approach. "Guess why the doctor didn''t clean it up thoroughly when he was hit by the arrow back then?" "Let me tell you this," Meng Chun sped his hands behind his back, "Once we reopen Ba Tu''s wound, it''s like putting one foot in the Underworld Pce. The fragments are likely deep inside." "If we don''t treat it, he might live for a few more years. If we treat it now, he could die immediately." "The pain his body will endure, as well as the subsequent wound infection and abscess, are certain. It''s like fighting with the King of Hell for a life, and I certainly don''t have that ability." Meng Chun shook his head. "If it were a Jing Country soldier, I wouldn''t agree to do this without certainty." "Let alone the fact that he''s a grasnd man?" Meng Chun said, ring at the Head Imperial Physician. "He was fine when he came to Jing Country, but you insist on treating him, reopening the wound. If he dies, do you think the grasnds will let it go?" "Aren''t you just causing trouble for no reason? Do you think we haven''t had a war in a long time or something?" Meng Chun berated Head Imperial Physician Hu. "I''m done talking to you. I''m going to speak to the Emperor directly. Hu Xin, you''re just messing around, trying to provoke a war between two countries!" "..." Head Imperial Physician Hu''s temples throbbed violently, and he finally grabbed Meng Chun. "Hey, mind your manners. Don''t be disrespectful in front of the Emperor." "The Emperor''s medical skills are exceptional." "?" Meng Chun and the other two military doctors came to an abrupt halt. What? What did he say? Head Imperial Physician Hu knew they didn''t believe him. Initially, no one in the entire Imperial Academy of Medicine believed it either. But what was the result? The gue, smallpox vination¡ªtime and again, it proved the point. "Let me be honest with you. I know that there''s only one fragment in Ba Tu''s body, and I know its location." "The Emperor told me." "???" "!!!" ... In the tent, Xiao Yunzhou had Liu Chaniang sit down while he held Xiao Chuchu, carefully patting his daughter to sleep. "Your Majesty, the military doctor Meng Chun... and Head Imperial Physician Hu request an audience." Xiao Yunzhou frowned slightly, and with just this sentence, his daughter''s eyes opened again. Oh my, they were bright and alert, without a hint of sleepiness. He had spent all this time trying to put her to sleep, for nothing! Xiao Yunzhou was almost angry enough to faint. Liu Chaniang quickly took their daughter, not letting him fumble anymore. [Oh, quickly call them in, Emperor Dad.] [I can''t wait to tell someone about our newly acquired surgical techniques...] Xiao Chuchu was so excited that her sleepiness started to fade away. [I wonder in what form the skill book will appear in Jing Country this time.] After multiple urrences, Xiao Chuchu had also noticed that things like banking and pig-raising techniques often required specialized knowledge. Even if inspired by others, only professionals who had some research in that particr field could truly grasp the techniques. So, Xiao Chuchu was waiting for Head Imperial Physician Hu and the three military doctors to arrive, curious about these anesthesia techniques and such. [I wonder how good Head Imperial Physician Hu''s hands-on skills are? Our modern surgeons have to practice suturing techniques extensively.] [They even practice surgical techniques on pig skin. Is Head Imperial Physician Hu up to the task? Does he have the surgical ability?] Xiao Chuchu was a bit worried, as she had never seen Head Imperial Physician Hu perform any surgeries or sutures in the pce. [I hope it doesn''t turn out that we''ve developed rudimentary disinfection and anesthesia techniques, only for Ba Tu to die due to poor surgical and suturing skills.] [If that happens, I would have wasted my exchange.] Xiao Chuchu pondered as she scrutinized Head Imperial Physician Hu and the three military doctors who had entered the tent. Xiao Yunzhou, upon hearing this, had a gleam of curiosity in his eyes. So that''s how it was¡ªthe surgical techniques in the Immortal Realm required specialized training! Head Imperial Physician Hu wouldn''t do! As Xiao Yunzhou thought about it, he realized that probably few people in the Imperial Academy of Medicine would be capable. They could diagnose, prescribe medicines, and perform acupuncture, but this suturing skill was likely beyond the abilities of the Imperial Physicians. [Wow, the system praised me for staying calm and collected, putting Ba Tu''s life first instead of rushing to find a doctor for immediate surgery, avoiding hasty actions.] [To reward me for recognizing the professional expertise of surgeons and the challenges they face, the system has granted me a book on surgical suturing techniques.] [Additionally, I can immediately upgrade one person''s surgical suturing skills.] Xiao Yunzhou was instantly ted. Was the Immortal Realm directly bestowing magical abilities? But Xiao Chuchu was utterly exhausted, and after saying all this, her head began to nod off with great effort. Just as her head bobbed, something went awry! [Oh no, it got added to my mother instead!] Xiao Yunzhou: "??!" [My mother has the most experience with sewing, so the system recognized her!] Liu Chaniang, who was in the middle of sewing stitches on a down jacket: "...???" Chapter 157 Inside the imperial tent. Xiao Yunzhou was stunned for a moment, then heard the advice of Meng Chun, the military doctor standing before him. "Your Majesty, regarding Ba Tu''s old wound, the safest approach is to leave it untreated." "If the fragment is close to the heart vessels, too much tissue would need to be opened. The internal conditions of the human body are extremelyplex." "Excessive blood loss, inability to stop bleeding immediately, and severe post-injury healing and abscess issues could ur." Xiao Yunzhou interrupted him, "The problem of excessive bleeding..." His gaze inadvertently shifted to the embroidery needle in Liu Chaniang''s hand. Meng Chun followed his gaze and was taken aback. He couldn''t help but look towards Imperial physician Hu. Hu gave him a look that said, ''He''s not wrong, is he?'' "Your Majesty''s words are absolutely correct. It was mentioned long ago in the ''Treatise on the Pathogenesis and Manifestations of All Diseases'' that for severed intestines from metal wounds, they can be quickly reconnected... using silk thread to tie off the blood vessels." "Making a continuous suture in the shape of a bird''s tongue... can save the patient." Imperial physician Hu recited a passage from the book, "Your Majesty is wise; the wound can be sutured." Meng Chun''s eyes widened. What did they mean by ''Your Majesty''s words are correct'' and ''Your Majesty is wise''? The Emperor hadn''t said anything yet, he had just nced at the needle and thread in Consort Liu''s hands! Meng Chun coughed lightly, "Your Majesty, I have indeed treated many cases of soldiers with severed intestines, but only two out of ten survived." Xiao Yunzhou''s face immediately darkened, "Why such a low rate?" Meng Chun was displeased as well, "I already have the steadiest hands, and I''ve been treating external injuries for years. If someone else were to do the suturing, none would survive." [Oh my, the mortality rate is so high. This is not only due to the difference between ancient and modern suturing techniques but also because of sterilization and infection issues.] Xiao Chuchu mused, suddenly perking up. [I wonder how my mother feels now with her system-enhanced suturing skills?] Xiao Chuchu''s curious gaze kept darting towards Liu Chaniang. [Theoretically, the enhancement should have taken effect. Why doesn''t my mother show any reaction?] [Perhaps she''ll only notice the difference when she actually starts suturing?] Liu Chaniang''s ears gradually turned red, her needlework bing increasingly rapid under Chuchu''s intense stare. She was too nervous. Xiao Yunzhou, having heard his daughter''s thoughts, also stared at her with great curiosity. Liu Chaniang carefully reflected but didn''t feel any different. Had the celestial technique really been bestowed upon her? But as she continued sewing, something felt off. Liu Chaniang realized she could sew without even looking down! Xiao Yunzhou observed for a while and indeed noticed this. He pped his thigh and pointed at Meng Chun, "Bring a piece of pig intestine and cut it open. Meng Chun, you and Consort Liu willpete to see who can sew faster and better." Meng Chun''s eyes widened. The Emperor''s idea was oundish! "The feel of suturing flesh ispletely different from sewing clothes!" But imperial orders could not be defied. Meng Chun''s objections were futile, and soon enough, the sycophant Wei Zheng had scurried off and returned with a clean, odorless piece of pigrge intestine from the kitchen. "Cut the intestine in half. Meng Chun, you sew the left side." "Chaniang, I''ve seen you sew clothes day and night, and you''re quite skillful. Try to imitate Dr. Meng''s technique and suture this pig intestine." Meng Chun remained silent, but his expression was full of derision. "Very well, this isn''t some secret skill. If Consort Liu wants to learn, she can! If the Consort can master this and save even one more life, it would be a blessing for our soldiers." Though he said this, his tone was full of sarcasm, clearly believing that a woman skilled in embroidery couldn''t possibly seed. He went to fetch his medicine box and took out the needle and special mulberry bark thread used for suturing. He had Imperial physician Hu use his self-made iron forceps to help hold the severed intestine in ce, and then he began suturing. [Oh, an ancient version of medical forceps? Wow, it''s already quite close to modern surgical practices.] Xiao Chuchu watched with wide eyes. But soon she noticed how outdated Meng Chun''s technique was. Compared to the other side, her mother... Liu Chaniang, after observing Meng Chun''s technique for a moment, awkwardly picked up the special mulberry bark thread and threaded it through Meng Chun''s custom needle. Then she lowered her head to look at the severed intestine before her. Her hand involuntarily picked up a pair of iron forceps from Meng Chun''s medicine box, gripped the suture needle, and began working on the intestine! A perfect end-to-end anastomosis, with full-thickness interrupted sutures and knot-tying! A perfect posterior wall, with full-thickness interrupted sutures, each stitch evenly spaced and fine! Then a perfect anterior wall, with inverted sutures! Followed by perfect reinforcement sutures, closing the mesentery on both sides of the intestine! Finally, checking the patency of the anastomosis! While Meng Chun was sweating, slowly preparing for the second half of his suturing, he noticed that Imperial physician Hu, who was holding the severed intestine for him, had hands that were bing increasingly crooked and nted... "What are you doing?" "Don''t move!" Meng Chun looked up and scolded him, only to find Hu staring to his right with a shocked and amazed expression. To his right, there was only one person - Consort Liu, who was learning his suturing technique. "What are you staring at? What are you staring at! You''re holding a person''s life in your hands, how can you be so distracted? You''re really disgracing your master!" Meng Chun frowned but still couldn''t help ncing disdainfully at Consort Liu. Even if it was her first time, it was normal to show a bit of talent. After all, he had heard that Consort Liu had led the pce women in making thousands of winter clothes, and even the down jacket was her idea. Then there was that silk reeling machine. Clearly, Consort Liu was extremely skilled in women''s work and embroidery, and quite clever and dexterous. If she could imitate his technique and sew decently, that was to be expected. But so what? Could a consort really apany him to the military camp and assist him? Meng Chun shook his head and sighed lightly. He would like that, but would the Emperor allow it? As he was lost in thought, he turned his head, and all his musings vanished! Because he saw that Consort Liu had stopped. Consort Liu was standing still. And then, he saw in her hands - a perfectly sutured pig intestine, with almost no misalignment, neither too tight nor too loose! He even had a feeling that if this intestine were put back into a pig''s belly, the pig would survive! It could even defecate immediately! Meng Chun''s eyes widened in shock, and he froze. He even forgot to move the needle in his own hand! "How... how is this possible?" Meng Chun looked down at the pig intestine in his hands. He had only sutured half of it, and while his stitching wasn''t bad, it was far from as beautiful as Consort Liu''s! It was as if Consort Liu had been suturing pig intestines for ten years! "Um, Your Majesty, your subject doesn''t know either..." Liu Chaniang''s face reddened. "When your subject saw this pig intestine, it was as if I had a feeling, an intuition about how it should be sutured to close both the inside and outside properly." Meng Chun''s mouth gaped open, his eyes wide. Xiao Yunzhou listened, his eyes shing with excitement. Was this the celestial technique bestowed by the heavenly realm? This truly was a blessing from the celestial world! "Incredible skill! Truly incredible!" Xiao Yunzhou was excited. Why hadn''t the heavenly realm bestowed its blessing upon him? [Hot damn, Mom! Wow, this system reward is really something. Without any fuss, it turned my mother into an expert. But heaven knows, Mom usually opens her eyes just to sew, and when she closes them, she''s still sleep-talking about how to speed up her sewing.] Xiao Chuchu mused. [The system rewarding Mom with surgical suturing skills is inseparable from her daily hard work and embroidery foundation!] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression changed. Ah, he understood now. The heavenly realm didn''t bless him because he spent his days being an emperor, not handling needles and thread! Even if the heavenly realm wanted to bless him, there were no grounds to do so. They could only bless those around him. As Xiao Yunzhou pondered this, his face contorted as if he had lost a precious treasure. How painful! If he had known earlier¡ªwell, he still wouldn''t have picked up an embroidery needle. This kind of suturing technique was better left to the deft hands of Lady Liu. Lady Liu was someone he could trust. With renewed enthusiasm, Xiao Yunzhou turned to Wei Zheng and said, "Take away the pig intestines. Have the kitchen send in pigs and sheep, gutted and split open. Lady Liu, you continue to practice." "Meng Chun, as usual, demonstrate for Lady Liu first, and let her try to learn." "..." Meng Chun''s mouth twitched. What was he supposed to demonstrate? Lady Liu''s stitching on the pig''srge intestine was far more beautiful than his, functional, and faster too. What could he possibly demonstrate? Demonstrate his rear end! Chapter 158 te after te of raw pork chops, pig''s trotters, ham... even pig heads and innards were brought into the royal tent. Then, one by one, they were sent back out. All the soldiers passing by expressed their confusion. "What''s going on in there?" "Are the Emperor and Empressing up with new dishes again?" "But the meating out is still raw." "Maybe they''re inspecting the freshness of our camp''s pork? The Emperor and Empress really do care about us." "Don''t overthink it. Doctor Meng is in there." A group of soldiers huddled together to discuss, but soon became even more perplexed. What could it mean? Raw pork, Doctor Meng, the Emperor, and the Empress? Fortunately, a sharp-eyed scout soldier discovered the mystery. "The pig stomachs, legs, and heads being sent out have all been stitched up!" "!!" ... Inside the royal tent, Meng Chun was already covered in sweat, his energy depleted, but he looked at Liu Chaniang with utmost admiration. In his hands, he held a pig''s hind leg, with both the meat inside and the skin outside perfectly stitched together with fine needlework. Meng Chun was thoroughly impressed! "Your Majesty''s suturing technique is unlike anything I''ve ever seen before. How did youe up with so many different stitching methods?" "The techniques for suturing intestines, flesh, skin, and meat around bones are all different. I''ve truly broadened my horizons today!" Meng Chun said, respectfully asking Liu Chaniang for guidance. "Your methods have surpassed mine! During your stay in the military camp, would you be willing to teach me a thing or two?" Meng Chun''s face flushed red, "I wish to be your disciple, Your Majesty!" [Wow, they say that being a teacher for a day makes you a father for life. Is that true?] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened. Liu Chaniang, hearing her daughter''s words, felt a bit embarrassed. "Please rise, Doctor Meng. I''m d if I can be of help. Don''t talk about bing my disciple. I''ve never sutured on a human body before. When ites to treating wounds and saving lives, you''re still the expert. If you find my methods useful, feel free to learn them." Liu Chaniang knew that all of this came from the little princess, a reincarnated immortal, who brought these techniques from the Immortal Realm. The little princess''s arrival in this world might be meant to bring about change. As the little princess''s mother, now chosen by celestial methods, she became the first to learn these techniques. No matter how difficult, she was willing to be the messenger of this suturing technique. "I''d like to try more," Liu Chaniang looked at Xiao Yunzhou, and then at the gutted sheep beside him. "I seem to know how to stitch just by looking. With practice, I''ll be more proficient." "Once I''ve mastered it all, I''ll try to write it down in a book for you and Doctor Meng to study?" Meng Chun and Head Imperial Physician Hu were overjoyed upon hearing this. "Thank you, Your Majesty. You truly are a saint!" Not everyone would be so willing to share their knowledge. "If Your Majesty''s techniques were written down, it would surely be a sacred text in medicine, passed down through generations." [Of course! These are all modern suturing techniques, a cheat code from the system.] Xiao Chuchu was also grateful that the skill sent by the stingy system this time was so useful. [Modern suturing is based on anatomy. Unlike now, Jing Country''s understanding of human body structure is still insufficient.] Xiao Yunzhou listened with great interest, immediately encouraging and praising Liu Chaniang. "Good, keep practicing. Let them assist you, and write the book as you practice." "These few days, Meng Chun, learn this suturing technique. If you encounter injured soldiers with external wounds, try it out." Meng Chun hurriedly epted the order. This time, he was genuinely convinced. "I will do my utmost to assist." Xiao Yunzhou sped his hands behind his back, "Then, about the issue of Ba Tu''s excessive bleeding that you mentioned earlier, can it be partially resolved with Liu Chaniang''s suturing technique?" Meng Chun''s eyes sparkled, "Yes, it can!" "If we can locate the fragments quickly and suture swiftly, it will indeed reduce bleeding time and increase the chances of wound healing!" Xiao Yunzhou breathed a sigh of relief. The progress on the bell hadpletely stalled. If there were no other methods, they might have to resort to treating Ba Tu. This matter, if not handled with certainty, could potentially lead to Ba Tu''s death. Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t willing to risk someone''s life and potentially incur the grasnds'' hatred towards Jing Country just for the sake of collecting an elite character. "As long as we can keep people alive, that''s good. As for the other issue of wound infection you mentioned, I will continue to recruit top medical experts from across the country to research it in theing days." Xiao Yunzhou felt that Ba Tu wasn''t just one person; there would be other ''Ba Tus'' in the world. Should they give up on treating arrow wounds and knife wounds in the future? Learning the ''disinfection'' and ''anesthesia'' techniques brought back from the Immortal Realm by his daughter today could save many more Ba Tus! Xiao Yunzhou sensed the heavy responsibility and expectations ced upon him by the Immortal Realm! "Alright, you may go about your business now," Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand. But Meng Chun stopped in his tracks and turned back with aplex expression. "Your Majesty, I have a great-uncle who is a genius in our family''s medical tradition. He once performed chest surgery on someone. But he has a peculiar temperament and has now retired." "If we could persuade him toe out of retirement, andbine his skills with Her Majesty Liu Chaniang''s suturing technique, we might have a 30% chance of sess with Ba Tu''s injury!" As soon as Meng Chun finished speaking, Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. Then he heard Xiao Chuchu''s surprised exmation. [Oh, another approachable character has been unlocked in the elite character map.] [Meng Can, Jing Country''s top surgical expert, has discovered an early anesthesia method ¡ª the Sleep Saint Powder (marijuana powder).] [However, this character once caused a patient''s death due to marijuana overdose and has since retired, no longer performing surgeries.] [Mission: Persuade Meng Can toe out of retirement. Sessfully recruiting this hero character will greatly increase loyalty.] [Reward: Significantly improve Jing Country''s current medical level (Current level: Barely adequate).] Xiao Chuchu read it once, and her inner voice immediately broadcasted this new mission. Seeing the emperor''s silence, Meng Chun thought he was displeased and was about to turn away when Xiao Yunzhou suddenly pped the table. "Quickly write to him! Send the message by express horse!" "Whatever it takes, we must invite him here!" ... Even with express horses, it took a day. Two swift horses pulled a carriage carrying a red-faced old man, galloping into the camp. Before the carriage had fully stopped, the old man eagerly jumped out, moving more nimbly than the young soldier driving the carriage. "Where''s Meng Chun? How did he get shot by an arrow? How could a camp doctor get shot?" The old man, carrying a medicine box on his back, grabbed the guard at the entrance and shook him while asking, "Is Meng Chun still alive? Is he still breathing?" "Huh?" The guard was bewildered, "Doctor Meng... isn''t..." "Gone?" Old man Meng Can''s tears suddenly fell, "I told him long ago not to be a military camp doctor, but he wouldn''t listen, just wouldn''t listen!" "Ah, I''m sixty-three, and he was only forty-two, yet he went ahead of me!" "Where''s his body?" "No use wasting it, I might as well cut him open and study his internal organs!" Meng Can cursed and wept as he asked the guard to lead the way. The guard waspletely bewildered until Meng Can was led into a tent, where he saw Meng Chun practicing sutures on pigskin. "Doctor Meng, someone''s here to¡ª" Before the guard could finish, Meng Chun was struck on the head with a resounding p. "You little brat, how dare you trick me! Weren''t you supposed to be incapacitated from an arrow to the shoulder, asking me toe treat you?" "Boy, I''ll cut you open right now and treat you!" At sixty-three, Meng Can had jet-ck hair and a strong, tall build. He immediately snatched the guard''s knife, intent on cutting open Meng Chun, his disciple-nephew. But as he raised the knife over his head, Meng Can was hurriedly restrained by Meng Chun. "Uncle, wait! Look at this pigskin..." "To hell with the pigskin! I''ll give you something to look at!" "Come on, just look at the stitching¡ª" "!!" Meng Can was about to curse again, but the moment he saw the fine, beautiful stitches on the pigskin, his knife stopped mid-air. Chapter 159 Inside the military tent, Meng Can picked up the pigskin and immediately noticed something different. The suturing technique was unlike the one described in his family''s traditional medical book. However, the method was even more intricate and delicate. Meng Can gave Meng Chun aplex look, tossed the pigskin back, and turned his attention to the table covered with freshly sutured pig heads, intestines, legs, and organs... If the suturing technique on the pigskin had merely impressed Meng Can, the array of different suturing methods applied to various body parts on the table left him utterly captivated. "In the years you''ve been with the guard post, how many battles have you fought... to develop such suturing skills?" "Exquisite, truly exquisite!" Meng Can picked up a pair of scissors, intending to cut open the stitches on a pig''s hind leg to examine how the bone had been sutured inside. But his nephew Meng Chun quickly stopped him, "Uncle, wait. First, tell me if you''re willing to use the Sleep Saint Powder to save people in our camp." At the mention of Sleep Saint Powder, Meng Can immediately frowned, dropped the pig leg, and turned to leave! "Meng Chun, you know what I despise most!" ... [Oh, Meng Can''s collection progress has increased to 15%!] In the imperial tent, Xiao Chuchu, who was trying rice porridge today, suddenly heard the inner voice. Xiao Yunzhou, who was feeding her with a spoon, immediately brightened up. Nearby, Liu Chaniang, who continued practicing sutures on pigskin, also smiled upon hearing this, but didn''t pause her stitching. But then Xiao Chuchu made a puzzled sound, [Meng Can''s collection progress has dropped again, down to 3%. Tsk, what''s going on?] Xiao Yunzhou frowned but continued coaxing his daughter to focus on eating. He already had an idea to solve this issue. "Be good, Chuchu, open your mouth, ah~" "Wei Zheng, I received a memorial from Head Imperial Physician Hu this morning, saying he''s devised a method for chest surgery to alleviate pain and reduce infection in abscesses. Ry a message to him." "Tell him toe to Meng Chun''s tent in about fifteen minutes. I''ll go there to listenter." As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, he instructed Wei Zheng. Wei Zheng looked confused, wondering ''when did this memorial arrive?'', but quickly agreed obsequiously and immediately retreated. Xiao Chuchu nced over and felt reassured, [It seems the simple version of the anesthesia and disinfection skill book I exchanged has entered Jing Country.] [Good, now I can sit back and wait for things to unfold without rushing. I trust in the abilities of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, Doctor Meng, and my mother.] With this, Xiao Chuchu could now focus on drinking her rice porridge. Spoonful by spoonful, it was deliciously sweet. [It would taste even better with more sugar~] Xiao Yunzhou silently took note but quickly put on a stern face. No, too much sweetness would rot her teeth. The little princess would cry when she grew up and realized this. * "Head Imperial Physician Hu, when did you submit a memorial to the Emperor? Even I didn''t know about it." Wei Zheng found Head Imperial Physician Hu crouching in Doctor Meng''s medical tent and immediately beganining. "In the past, you always ryed urgent matters directly to me at the pce. Howe you''ve forgotten the rules now that we''re in the military camp?" Head Imperial Physician Hu, who was struggling to persuade Meng Can not to leave, was bewildered by Wei Zheng''s words. "I... didn''t submit any memorial." Wei Zheng rolled his eyes. Still denying it? "Would the Emperor falsely use you? His Majesty has ordered you to wait in Doctor Meng''s tent. He''ll be here shortly to discuss the new medical technique you wrote about in your memorial." "I really didn''t submit anything. What new medical¡ª!" Head Imperial Physician Hu stopped mid-denial, his eyes widening as he looked at Wei Zheng. "I have a new medical technique?" "You remember now?" Wei Zheng scoffed. Head Imperial Physician Hu didn''t know whether tough or cry. What did he remember? Submitting a memorial to the Emperor was something that never happened! For the past two days, he had been busy learning the Empress''s suturing techniques, working only with pig trotters and pigskin. He hadn''t thought of any new medical techniques; this must be the Emperor''s idea! The Emperor was trying to give him credit again! This immense fortune made Head Imperial Physician Hu''s hands tremble. How could he deserve this? But now was not the time to decline! He would have the chance to learn a new method! This was a blessing for the Imperial Academy of Medicine and for the entire country! Head Imperial Physician Hu grew excited at the thought and looked at Wei Zheng with anticipation, "Eunuch Wei, what did His Majesty say I wrote in my memorial?" Wei Zheng red at him. Well, well, he had to admire this act of ying dumb. Head Imperial Physician Hu didn''t even know what he himself had written! "Don''t stop me! Even if you beat me to death, don''t expect me to stay!" "I will never stay. I will never use Sleep Saint Powder again in this life. I swear, if I use it again, I''ll take my own life!" Meng Can pushed Meng Chun aside and rushed out of the tent with his medicine box. "Next time you die, don''t call for me!" Wei Zheng frowned and stepped aside to avoid being knocked over by Meng Can. Then he turned to Head Imperial Physician Hu and said sarcastically, "Head Imperial Physician Hu, since your memory is poor, let me remind you." "His Majesty will be here soon to ask you about the new method you im to have devised for chest surgery, which requires pain relief and infection reduction for abscesses." Wei Zheng sneered, "If you dare to deceive His Majesty, you''ll be in big trouble, Head Imperial Physician Hu. You''d better actually have a method and not be making this up..." He was still threatening when suddenly, a bull-like figure charged back into the tent from outside, bumping into him! Wei Zheng turned angrily. But he saw that Meng Can, who had rushed back,pletely ignored him and went straight to Head Imperial Physician Hu, "What? He said you came up with what? Chest surgery for pain relief and reducing abscesses?" "..." Head Imperial Physician Hu opened his mouth, "...Ah." Meng Can dropped his medicine box with a thud, "What do you mean ''ah''? Do you have it or not?" "Tell me the form! Listen!" Meng Can stamped his foot, "I won''t take advantage of you. If the form works, I''ll take your surname from today and even be your disciple!" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "...Hmm..." He wanted to speak, really. But he didn''t know what to say. "Well, let''s wait for His Majesty to arrive before discussing it." Meng Can red at him, while Meng Chun looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu in confusion. For the past two days, they had been suturing pigskin together. When and how did Head Imperial Physician Hue up with this? ... Fifteen minutester. Xiao Yunzhou really did arrive, hands sped behind his back, and went straight into Doctor Meng''s medical tent. Seeing an unfamiliar man in in clothes with jet-ck hair, looking spirited and middle-aged, Xiao Yunzhou''s heart skipped a beat. This must be the hidden master of Jing Country, Meng Can, now recognized by the celestial realm as an elite. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, you can speak now. His Majesty has arrived." Meng Can, imitating his nephew''s manner, gave a rough bow to the emperor and then impatiently urged Head Imperial Physician Hu to speak. Head Imperial Physician Hu''s face was embarrassed, his cheeks flushed as he lowered his head. "Actually, it wasn''t me, it was His Majesty¡ª" Apart from the emperor, there were only the three physicians present. When it came down to it, Head Imperial Physician Hu dared not take credit for the emperor''s achievement. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, "Alright, since you couldn''t figure it out, I''ll do it for you..." Meng Can and Meng Chun couldn''t help but look up, gazing at him in surprise. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat, "In the past, medical texts have mentioned using fire and alcohol to treat knives used forncing boils and treating arrow wounds." Before he could finish, Meng Can was already shaking his head and waving his hands, "That won''t work." "What kind of expert is this? Rubbish! Even after dousing with alcohol and removing the abscess, there are still many cases of reinfection..." Meng Can frowned, contradicting him just like his nephew would, "This method has some use, but it still has ws, and besides, our ancestors already thought of this. How is this anything new?" Head Imperial Physician Hu pondered for a while but couldn''t think of anything. However, he stopped Meng Can, "Don''t be hasty, Elder Meng. His Majesty surely hasn''t finished speaking." Xiao Yunzhou nodded, "Indeed. What I want to say is¡ªit''s not that this method doesn''t work, it''s that the alcohol in our Jing Country isn''t strong enough!" "!" "??" Meng Chun and Meng Can were startled. Evidently, they had considered the issue with alcohol before but hadn''t found a solution. Now, Xiao Yunzhou''s words gently pushed away the fog before their eyes, illuminating the path ahead. "The alcohol in our Jing Country isn''t strong or concentrated enough." "!" "After hearing Doctor Meng''s concerns about wound infections that day, I asked Liu Runnian from the Ministry of Works to find a solution. He came up with a method to distill strong alcohol." Xiao Yunzhou stepped forward, raising his head in the sunlight. "This morning, he produced a new strong alcohol, two to three times as potent as Jing Country''s previous strongest liquor." "!!" Chapter 160 On the day Xiao Yunzhou heard his daughter''s inner thoughts, he wrote a letter that very night and sent it by express courier to the Ministry of Works. The letter contained only one request: for Liu Runnian to develop one of the disinfectants Chuchu had mentioned in her thoughts¡ªhigh-proof alcohol. As for other mystical substances like ether, Xiao Yunzhou had heard of them but didn''t yet understand how to produce them, so he had to put those aside for now. Fortunately, it was feasible to increase the alcohol content of Jing Country''s existing spirits through distition. Liu Runnian indeed didn''t disappoint him. This morning, he had sent new alcohol and a report by express courier! "As luck would have it, Liu Runnian from the Ministry of Works just happened to produce this alcohol." "I thought this would be perfect for the abscess problem Doctor Meng mentioned, wouldn''t it?" "Wei Zheng, bring in the alcohol. Let all of you try it," Xiao Yunzhou gestured to Wei Zheng. [Oh!] Xiao Chuchu had just washed her face in the sunlight and had some fragrant cream applied by Liu Chaniang. She was contentedly watching the live broadcast from Head Imperial Physician Hu''s side inside the imperial tent. She had just connected when she saw this scene. [My goodness, I remember that in ancient times, before distition technology, all alcohol was below 30 proof.] [Only after distition could high-proof alcohol be obtained.] [My uncle actually managed to do it?] Xiao Chuchu watched intently as Wei Zheng personally carried a y-sealed jar of alcohol into the tent. Before Xiao Yunzhou could speak, Meng Can called out loudly, "Let me!" His eyes were bright, and his movements were quick yet careful. Before Head Imperial Physician Hu and Meng Chun could react, he had already removed the y seal. Meng Can leaned in to look into the jar, but immediately straightened up. "So strong... The smell of this alcohol is so potent!" Before it was even poured out, an unprecedentedly strong aroma of liquor spread out, forcefully invading the noses of everyone in the medical tent. Wei Zheng, who usually attended to the emperor and never drank, stepped back instantly and covered his nose and mouth. "What a pungent smell!" Even Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow; this wasn''t to his liking either. But his eyes brightened. Just as the secret techniques from the Immortal Realm mentioned in his little princess''s thoughts had said, the distilled liquor outssed all of Jing Country''s strong spirits, possibly two or three times the strength of the current spirits! [Oh my, I hate that this system''s live broadcast doesn''t include smell and taste,] Xiao Chuchu grumbled. [System, you''re not good enough, I can''t even smell it.] [But never mind, Father Emperor and Wei Zheng were scared off by the smell of this alcohol, so it must be very nose-stinging. A little baby like me who can''t handle alcohol~] Liu Chaniang listened intently beside her, her movements slowing as she stitched on the pigskin. [Oh, Meng Can carefully poured out a small cup. Wow, it''s white liquor...] [Could it be over 70 proof?] Xiao Chuchu marveled. [Using this for disinfection would definitely be more reliable than the current low-proof alcohol.] [Bacteria, I''m going to kill, kill, kill you!] Bacteria... what could that be? Liu Chaniang listened to Chuchu''smentary, her confused gaze gradually bing dazed. From Chuchu''s tone, bacteria seemed to be something bad. Liu Chaniang frowned. The more she heard about the Immortal Realm, the more she realized how far behind life in Jing Country was. [Oh my, Meng Can''s collection progress has reached 39%! Hahaha!] Xiao Chuchu was delighted when she saw the system prompt. [It seems that as long as there are attractive medical techniques and remedies, we can lure him out of seclusion.] Hearing this, Liu Chaniang felt happy for themon people and soldiers of Jing Country. At this moment in the medical tent, Meng Can was taking a small sip of the shallow liquid in the bowl. He actually didn''t want to drink much at all. Because if this new alcohol proved useful, it would be needed to treat people. Drinking it... would be such a waste! Thinking this, Meng Can let the sip of alcohol enter his throat. In an instant, his eyes widened. Smooth, fragrant, and then suddenly a fiery sensation surged into his internal organs! Refreshing! Stimting! Meng Can''s eyes lit up, and he wanted to drink more. But in the end, he pursed his lips and resisted, his Adam''s apple bobbing as he looked at Xiao Yunzhou and said, "This alcohol can be used." Xiao Yunzhou immediately breathed a sigh of relief. Beside him, Head Imperial Physician Hu and Meng Chun eagerly stepped forward to take Meng Can''s ce and try it themselves. However, Meng Can thought of the next issue, one that made his brow furrow when he recalled it. "This alcohol is an improved method to prevent abscesses, but what about the pain relief for chest surgeries you mentioned?" Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, thinking to himself, "If I told you, it would scare you to death. How could mere mortalsprehend the pain relief methods of the Immortal Realm?" The celestial voice had mentioned ether and inhaled anesthetics... even he, the Son of Heaven, didn''t understand how to produce them. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression became a bit pained as he thought about it. Having a treasure in hand but not being able to use it, who could understand this pain? But it didn''t matter. The simplified version of the anesthetic secret technique and other forms from his little princess''s thoughts seemed achievable. Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou proudly began to speak, "Cannabis powder..." As soon as he said this, Meng Can''s eyes widened in shock. "How do you know about my Sleeping Saint Powder?!" "Insolence, this is the Emperor!" Wei Zheng rebuked. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand. "It''s fine, let''s discuss the matter at hand." But just as he was about to continue showing off in front of Meng Can, cold sweat suddenly broke out on his back. Wait, he had almost forgotten that his little princess had a divine method of observing thousands of people and things from thousands of miles away. Xiao Yunzhou abruptly stopped his intention to show off, his expression changing from smug to ''sincere'' as he looked at Meng Can. "How do I know about the Sleeping Saint Powder?" "Of course, it''s because Head Imperial Physician Hu wrote it in his report yesterday, saying it was a form he hade up with, and submitted it to me. You can ask him." Head Imperial Physician Hu: "!??" Meng Can: "!" The two men exchanged a nce, tension immediately rising between them. "How did you know¡ª" "I... I..." Head Imperial Physician Hu drew in a sharp breath, gritted his teeth, and looked at Xiao Yunzhou. Seeing the Emperor close his eyes, he could only nod reluctantly to Meng Can, his face reddening. He really didn''t know! "There are so many medical books in the world... I figured it out from reading!" Meng Can red at him and snorted heavily. "Well, that''s not really a new method. I''ve been using the Sleeping Saint Powder for ten years already." Xiao Yunzhou nodded. "Indeed, I hadn''t finished speaking. Head Imperial Physician Hu''s report mentioned other things as well." Now Meng Can grew anxious and looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu. "What else is there? How much do you n to use? How will you use it?" His Sleeping Saint Powder had once caused a patient to be addicted due to overuse, suffering greatly before eventually dying. Meng Can grew urgent at the thought. "Hurry up and tell me! Why are you being so mysterious? Do you need the Emperor to speak for you? Have you caught some princess disease?" Head Imperial Physician Hu: "..." Damn it. Head Imperial Physician Hu could only look helplessly at Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou nodded reassuringly and said, "Head Imperial Physician Hu''s report mentioned datura, aconite, and daphne." [Ah, it''s confirmed! Head Imperial Physician Hu''s report is just like the simplified version of anesthesiology I exchanged from the system!] [These are all forms that existed in our history. They were still used during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and there''s also the Anesthetic Powder invented by the divine physician Hua Tuo.] Xiao Chuchu recalled as she thought about it. [The Anesthetic Powder only appears in legendary stories. It''s said that during surgery, patients felt nothing and woke up after three days of sleep with no issues. But the specific form has been lost.] [I didn''t expect the system to know the form. These 100 points were well spent.] Xiao Chuchu was delighted, feeling she had made a great profit from the stingy system this time. Liu Chaniang listened with a heart as sweet as honey. A lost secret form! This was no ordinary thing. Sure enough, as they watched and listened to the live broadcast, a joyous exmation of surprise erupted from the medical tent. "So that''s how it is!" "Marvelous!" "Simply marvelous!" Meng Can''s excited voice nearly spread throughout the entire tent area. [Oh, Meng Can''s collection progress has reached 71%!] Xiao Chuchu looked and eximed internally. [So fast, Uncle Meng is too efficient! This is the first time I''ve encountered an elite character with such a rapid strategy acquisition speed!] [One more stimting piece of information, and his progress should reach 100%, right?] Chapter 161 Xiao Yunzhou recited the form for the Anesthetic Powder from his daughter''s inner thoughts, including the proportions of each ingredient. After showing off, he looked at Head Imperial Physician Hu and said, "I haven''t made any mistakes, have I? This is what you wrote in your report to me, right?" Head Imperial Physician Hu''s eyes trembled, almost bloodshot with excitement, amazement, and trepidation. "Marvelous... ahem, Your Majesty, that is indeed what I wrote." He was excited and amazed because he had just heard another exceptional form from a master. Such an exquisite and ingenious recipe was a once-in-a-lifetime blessing to hear. However, as he continued, his voice grew softer due to his guilt over the report. But Xiao Yunzhou was determined to attribute this ''achievement'' to Head Imperial Physician Hu. Head Imperial Physician Hu was an honest man, and his reddening face and unusual demeanor were hard to conceal. Fortunately, both Meng Chun and Meng Can, uncle and nephew, were so astonished by this series of anesthetic methods that they didn''t have time to notice Head Imperial Physician Hu''s expression. Only Wei Zheng noticed something slightly off, but he thought Head Imperial Physician Hu was an even better tterer than himself. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, you''re going too far," Wei Zheng said. "It''s your own report, yet you act so surprised and full of praise... I don''t even know what to say about you anymore." Wei Zheng was truly impressed by Head Imperial Physician Hu''s thick skin. "No wonder you''re the head of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, despite not being the oldest," he added. Head Imperial Physician Hu''s face alternated between shades of green and red. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly, stopping Wei Zheng''s rudeness, just as hurried footsteps were heard from outside. "Is Doctor Meng inside?" someone called. "Quiet! The Emperor is here!" "Ah? Old Liu''s stomach pain is severe! Can Doctor Menge out for a moment?" Inside the medical tent, Xiao Yunzhou heard this and quickly nodded to the group, "You should attend to the patient first. I''ve said all I needed to say." Meng Chun was also anxious to go out and treat the patient, so he hurried towards the tent''s exit. Only Meng Can looked at the emperor with slight confusion. Wasn''t the emperor here to ask Head Imperial Physician Hu about the report? What did he mean by "I''ve said all I needed to say"... But Meng Can''s confusion didn''tst long. In just a moment, his expression changed dramatically. "It''s intestinal abscess!" Meng Chun urgently asked outside the tent. "How long have you had severe pain in your lower right abdomen?" "It seems to have been almost a day..." a soldier''s voice responded. Meng Can and Head Imperial Physician Hu''s faces changed drastically. They lifted the tent p and went out, disregarding Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. "Intestinal abscess?" As they went out, Xiao Yunzhou followed to see. They saw a soldier with a pale face, forehead covered inrge beads of sweat, his body curled up like a shrimp, hand pressed tightly against the right side of his abdomen. Meng Can immediately reached out, touching the abdomen and checking the pulse. His brows furrowed, "It''s definitely intestinal abscess, and a severe case at that." "What?" "Old Liu was fine yesterday. Doctor, are you sure you haven''t made a mistake?" "This... this is bad, isn''t it? I''ve heard intestinal abscess is a serious illness that can be fatal." [Intestinal abscess, is that the same as acute appendicitis in modern terms?] Xiao Chuchu, being held by Liu Chaniang in the emperor''s tent, stopped ying around when she saw this. [That requires surgery. If it''s toote and the appendix ruptures, it''s really bad.] [Even in modern times, acute appendicitis can''t be treated with just medication. Surgery is needed as soon as possible.] Liu Chaniang sucked in a breath. Meanwhile, Meng Chun had reached the same conclusion as Chuchu. "I''m afraid medication won''t be enough," he said. "We might have to... open up the abdomen," Meng Chun said with a grave expression, looking to his uncle for confirmation. Meng Can nodded solemnly, "Let''s prepare. There''s no other way. Medication won''t be able to control it." "What? Open up the abdomen?" "What did you say?" "Cut open the stomach?" A group of soldiers was shocked. The soldier on the stretcher was already soaked as if he''d been pulled out of water, barely conscious from the pain. Head Imperial Physician Hu briefly checked the pulse and shook his head, "I have no prescription to offer. Acupuncture won''t help either." "Intestinal abscess..." Themotion among the Jing Country soldiers soon caught the attention of Duoti and the other grasnd people. They came to see what the fuss was about, their faces a mix of shock and fear. "Intestinal abscess can be fatal. I had a brother who died from it before," Ba Tu said through gritted teeth. "This man was just talking about wrestling with me yesterday." "Has he... has he made arrangements? Who will take care of his property and children?" Duoti kicked him, telling him to shut up. But as he looked at the Jing Country soldier who was now unconscious from pain, his eyes were filled with sympathy. He probably wouldn''t survive. Intestinal abscess was a dreadful disease on the grasnds. Minor cases could be treated with medicine. For severe cases, there was nothing to be done but wait for death, the pain so excruciating that one would want to bash their head against a wall, dying in agony. "Quickly, carry him inside!" Meng Chun stood up and called out. Several Jing Country soldiers immediately sprang into action. "Uncle... you should perform the abdominal incision," Meng Chun said. These words almost made Meng Can''s eyes bulge, but Meng Chun quickly turned to Head Imperial Physician Hu. "Head Imperial Physician Hu, the anesthetic form in your report, please prepare it immediately." "Uncle, you have those ingredients in your medicine box, right?" Theponents of the Anesthetic Powder indeed had anesthetic effects, though the proportions still needed adjustment. By following Head Imperial Physician Hu''s report and adjusting the dosage based on the patient''s weight, gender, and age, it would be much safer. Meng Chun''s words extinguished Meng Can''s anger. "I''ll assist you by cleaning the instruments with strong alcohol," Meng Can said. "Alright." Meng Can finally nodded, then looked at his nephew, "Lastly, you''ll perform the wound suturing." Uncle has agreed to perform the surgery! Meng Chun was overjoyed, but his expression quickly stiffened, "Suturing... Uncle, wait a moment. I need to ask the Emperor if we can request Lady Liu''s assistance!" Meng Can''s mouth fell open, his eyes wide: "??" He understood each word individually, but put together, they made no sense. What did this have to do with Lady Liu? It wasn''t just Meng Can; even the anxious Jing Country soldiers, Duoti, and the others standing outside didn''t understand. "What did Doctor Meng say?" "Did I hear that right? The Lady?" "Does the Lady know medicine too?" "Men and women should be separate... would the Emperor agree?" [Oh wow, Doctor Meng wants my mother to do the suturing after the abdominal surgery?] Xiao Chuchu took a deep breath. Xiao Yunzhou, who had returned to the imperial tent to avoid causing trouble, paused just as he was about to take a sip of tea. Liu Chaniang, who had been practicing suturing on pig skin, also froze, visibly nervous. [That''s a real person. My mother hasn''t tried it before.] Just as Xiao Chuchu was thinking this, Meng Chun''s loud and urgent voice could be heard from outside. "Your Majesty, a soldier outside urgently needs abdominal surgery, or his life may be in danger." "My suturing skills are not as precise and quick as Lady Liu''s!" "I know, Your Highness, that you are of noble status and a consort in the imperial harem. Men and women should be separate, but now a life hangs in the bnce... Saving a life is more meritorious than building a seven-story pagoda!" Meng Chun''s voice was so loud that half the military camp could hear him. Xiao Yunzhou frowned. Meng Chun had put him, the emperor, in a difficult position. Refusing would make him seem indifferent to a soldier''s life! But it wasn''t just about Liu Chaniang - even ordinary women didn''t go out to practice medicine or suture and dress wounds for men. Boys and girls shouldn''t sit together after age seven! Liu Chaniang nced at Xiao Yunzhou''s inscrutable face, gripped her handkerchief tightly, and bravely stood up. "Your Majesty, I am willing to try!" Liu Chaniang gritted her teeth. "Regardless of gender or age, they are all Your Majesty''s subjects!" "This talent of mine is both a blessing from heaven and a responsibility ced on my shoulders!" "I cannot simply enjoy the blessings without being willing to bear the burdens." Liu Chaniang was willing to cast aside societal views on gender roles. Even if it meant being sent to the Cold Pce, she didn''t care. The skills the little princess gave her surely weren''t meant to be left idle. Thinking thus, Liu Chaniang felt a fire burning in her heart,pletely unafraid of Xiao Yunzhou''s frown. She would act for the sake of the world, not just for one emperor! [Oh, Meng Can''s collection progress is at 85%!] Xiao Chuchu was suddenly startled by the system''s notification. Xiao Yunzhou abruptly turned his head to see Meng Chun and Meng Can outside the imperial tent, moved by Liu Chaniang''s words. [Auntie Liu is so awesome~] [Actually, there shouldn''t be much difference between men and women, right? The appendix isn''t exactly a gender-specific area.] Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts bubbled up. [It could be like a modern surgery. Just use surgical drapes to cover all other parts of the body, only exposing the area that needs to be operated on and sutured.] [In that case, who could tell if it''s a man or a woman?] [Once on the operating table, everyone''s the same.] As she thought this, Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. If everything was covered, there indeed wouldn''t be any gender issue. He had also seen Liu Chaniang suturing before, always using forceps to manipte the needle, never touching the pig skin directly. "Very well!" Xiao Yunzhou turned back resolutely and grasped Liu Chaniang''s hand. "Since you have such concern for all our subjects, how could I not support you?" "In my eyes, every soldier is like my own child." "I trust you, Chaniang, and I trust my subjects." "How can concerns about propriety between men and women be more important than the lives of my people!" [Oh, Meng Can''s collection progress is at 85%!] [Oh, Duoti''s collection progress is at 78%!] [Both progress bars have increased~] Chapter 162 "Get two more strong men! In case Imperial Physician Hu''s form doesn''t work well, we''ll have to hold him down! To prevent him from thrashing about!" Meng Can, with his wealth of experience, called for assistance immediately. Outside the imperial tent, Head Imperial Physician Hu''s expression wasn''t one of anger, but rather of apprehension. To be honest, this anesthetic form wasn''t his own invention, and he wasn''t entirely confident about it. "I''ll do it!" "I''m in!" As soon as the call for volunteers was made, some tall and sturdy Jing Country soldiers stepped forward. But they were all outmatched by Ba Tu, who took a step forward. Ba Tu was built more robustly than anyone else. One look at him, and you could tell he could pin someone down with ease. Duoti''s eyes flickered with concern, wanting to say something, but Meng Can, unaware of the situation, had already picked Ba Tu, "Alright, you''ll do. And you too! We need the two strongest men here!" If they weren''t strong enough to hold the patient down, it would all be for naught. Inside the medical tent, Head Imperial Physician Hu had his assistant bring out the ''protective gear'' he had brought along. "We developed these at the Imperial Academy of Medicine when dealing with the Yellow River gue. They can help prevent infection." "Everyone, put these on." These ''protective suits'' might have looked ordinary, but they were actually made of cowhide, smooth on the surface, and regrly fumigated with white vinegar and heat-treated. Not only had they worn these while treating patients during thest gue to avoid infection, but the Imperial Academy of Medicine and some renowned doctors in the capital had also worn them during their recent smallpox research. Both times, they had proven highly effective. While some doctors still contracted the gue or smallpox, the overall infection rate was much lower than without the suits. "I figured if these cowhide garments could protect against epidemics and smallpox, they might also be useful here to prevent us from introducing dust or harmful air into the patient''s wound," Head Imperial Physician Hu suggested. "Harmful air entering the body could easily cause the wound to fester." Meng Can and Meng Chun nced at him but didn''t refuse. [The ancients didn''t know about bacteria or viruses, but they had already grasped a hint of the truth about wound infections.] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but marvel as she watched the live broadcast. [Oh, my mother has suited up too.] [They''ve also covered the patient with cowhide, leaving only the lower right abdomen exposed.] [Wow, Head Imperial Physician Hu is using strong alcohol and fire to sterilize the knives, scissors, and forceps!] [Meng Can and Meng Chun are also following Head Imperial Physician Hu''s instructions and washing their hands.] Xiao Yunzhou had initially wanted to enter the medical tent to see if this otherworldly method would actually work, but the thought of the gruesome scene of cutting open a body made him reconsider. At this moment, he was pretending to read a memorial while actually eavesdropping on his daughter''s livementary of the ''surgery''. As he listened intently, Wei Zheng came over to pour tea and eximed, "Your Majesty, you''re holding the memorial upside down." Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Wei Zheng quickly knelt down and said, "Your Majesty''s concern for the ill soldier truly marks you as a wise ruler." [Damn, where did Wei Zheng learn to tter like this? Can someone introduce me to that school too?] Xiao Chuchu was caught off guard andughed. But after ncing at Xiao Yunzhou, she nodded, [It seems the Emperor Father is indeed very worried about the appendicitis surgery next door.] Hearing his daughter''s praise, Xiao Yunzhou''s anger dissipated, and he puffed out his chest proudly. However, his ears turned slightly red, feeling ashamed for his earlier reluctance to let Concubine Liu help next door. Perspective. His perspective was still far from matching his daughter''s! Xiao Yunzhou dismissed Wei Zheng, feeling restless. He decided to pick up Xiao Chuchu and walk out of the imperial tent, waiting outside for the surgery results. Meanwhile, inside the medical tent, Ba Tu stood three steps away, his tall and imposing figure frozen in shock. The Jing Country soldier, who had been curled up in pain like a shrimp, fell asleep shortly after being given some powder mixed with alcohol by Head Imperial Physician Hu. The strong scent of alcohol permeated the tent, making Ba Tu''s stomach growl with hunger. But the next moment filled Ba Tu with a mixture of fear and awe as Meng Can and Meng Chun actually cut open the patient''s lower right abdomen! Ba Tu involuntarily took a step back. Although he had been on battlefields and seen bloodshed, even suffering severe injuries himself, he had never seen or heard of doctors cutting open someone''s stomach to treat an illness. This had never happened on the grasnds! How was this different from outright killing someone? Was this really treatment? Could the patient survive? Ba Tu watched with wide eyes, his mind racing. As the sun began to set, he heard Meng Can let out a satisfied "Hmm." "Let''s stitch him up." Meng Chun had already prepared mulberry bark thread and made way for Liu Chaniang. Liu Chaniang took a deep breath and began the operation. It would be a lie if Liu Chaniang said she wasn''t nervous about suturing a human body for the first time. Fortunately, she had forced herself to practice on bloody pork and mutton, gradually epting the daunting sight of raw meat, bones, and blood. Moreover, thinking of her precious Chuchu, who was surely watching her performance on the ''live broadcast'' at this moment, a surge of passion welled up in Liu Chaniang''s heart. She had never felt braver. A mother''s strength knows no bounds! She couldn''t let Chuchu down! She wanted to be her daughter''s pride. With these thoughts, Liu Chaniang''s nervousness gradually turned toposure as she made the first stitch. Suturing the appendix. Closing the abdominal wall incisionyer byyer. Oneyer after another, her stitches were fine, even, and nearly identical in spacing. Her hands were steady and quick, and even the knot-tying was perfect. When it was all done, the wound was almostpletely smooth. Ba Tu: "!" Meng Can: "!" Everyone witnessing this live suturing for the first time was astounded by the miraculous skill. [My mother seeded, it''s perfect~] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but marvel as she watched the surgery broadcast. [My mother has been practicing stitching and knotting on pork and pigskin recently. Today''s operation was truly beautiful, as smooth as flowing water.] Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed when he heard this. It seemed the surgery was a sess. He stood outside the tent holding Xiao Chuchu, ears perked up to listen. But before he could hear his daughter''s next thoughts, Meng Can''s excited voice already rang out from inside the medical tent. "Are you Concubine Liu? I, Meng Can, humbly request to be your disciple!" Xiao Yunzhou''s jaw dropped: "!" [Wow, Meng Can''s progress collection is 100%, he''s entered the elite character gallery!] [Our country''s medical skill has increased by 0.7%. The system prompts: Please continue to research the scbility of surgery.] Xiao Yunzhou was delighted. But then, another shout came from inside the medical tent. "I agree to let you cut open my chest! I agree to let you remove the arrow fragments from inside me, but I want to be treated like him!" "I want Concubine Liu to stitch me up!" Ba Tu yelled. "I also want to drink that fragrant strong alcohol, and then you can operate on me!" This time, not only Xiao Yunzhou but also Duoti, who had been casually walking around outside the medical tent, was startled. * That night, Duoti took advantage of the darkness to leave the military camp for a walk to clear his head. Suddenly, an arrow with a note attached whizzed past him, embedding itself in a nearby locust tree! "When will you take action?!" Duoti unfolded the note and nced at the words, his expression growingplex. It was a spy from Chu State, urging him to sabotage the rtionship between Jing Country and the grasnds. Duoti closed his eyes. He too wished to act soon and leave this ce behind. But Ba Tu wanted the Jing Country official to perform open-heart surgery on him! The corner of Duoti''s mouth twitched. How could he possibly make a move now? He didn''t dare to do anything at all! Chapter 163 In the medical tent, Ba Tu sat down and pounded his chest, "Come on, the sooner the better." "I''ve had enough of this." Ever since Head Imperial Physician Hu said his old arrow wound might kill him, neither Hou Yuchuan nor Duoti would let him participate in daily training exercises, and they even cancelled the wrestlingpetitions. Ba Tu was clearly not adapting well, "Besides riding horses for hunting and war, I don''t know how to do anything else. Not letting me move or ride horses is worse than killing me with an arrow!" Previously, Ba Tu didn''t dare let the Jing Country Doctor operate on his chest, mainly because he had no masochistic tendencies. There was no need to reopen a healed wound when he was perfectly fine. The arrow fragments might not even be found, and the wound could be infected, leaving him bedridden and possibly crippled for life. He wasn''t a fool, so he refused! But now things were different. Ba Tu had witnessed the entire procedure on the soldier with the abdominal wound, and found that the patient merely ''slept'' through it. When he woke up, he was indeed in some pain, but he was alive and well. The pain wasn''t even as severe as when he was ill before. And the stitches done by that Jing Country Imperial Consort were quite beautiful. Ba Tu was intrigued. If he could die while unconscious, without suffering, and his body would remain intact afterward, Ba Tu wasn''t afraid anymore. He had survived being shot by an arrow, so what was there to fear? "As long as there''s a 30% chance of sess, go ahead!" Ba Tu raised his head, "I''m not afraid. Even if I die, I won''t hold you Jing Country Doctors ountable!" Meng Can was itching to act, his eyes bright with excitement, "Really?" He had been attracted by thistest ''anesthesia'' technique and ''suturing'' method, and was prepared toe out of retirement. That sessful intestinal abscess surgery left him with an endless aftertaste. He couldn''t wait to have more patients to treat, while practicing and researching at the same time. Now that the camp was calm, Meng Can was restless, even considering going outside to find patients. Hearing Ba Tu''s words, Meng Can became quite excited and was about to take his pulse. But Meng Chun frowned and stopped him, "Third Uncle, this isn''t an ordinary patient! Ba Tu is an honored guest in our Jing Country. How can we as hosts operate on a guest?" "Ba Tu, unless the Emperor agrees, we cannot ept your request." If something went wrong, affecting rtions between the two countries, who would bear the consequences? Ba Tu stood up abruptly, "Then I''ll go find Lord Duoti and have him speak to your Emperor!" An incense stick''s burning timeter, Duoti looked at Ba Tu, feeling a deep headacheing on. "My Lord, have you seen the medical skills of these Jing Country Doctors?" "That soldier with the intestinal abscess, have you seen his wound? The stitches make it look almost as if he was never injured." "Last night, he was even able to drink millet porridge!" Duoti''s expression wasplex. "My Lord, where on the grasnds can we find such doctors! If I don''t get treatment in Jing Country, where else can I go!?" Ba Tu knelt down, lowering his head. "Am I never to ride a horse again?" "If I return to the grasnds like this, I''m afraid I won''t be able to survive, and there will be no chance of recovery!" Duoti clenched his fists tightly. He still had the note from the Chu State spy hidden in his chest from the night before. When to act... But looking at Ba Tu before him, he took a deep breath. "Come, take me to see that soldier with the intestinal abscess." * [I''m so happy! The appendicitis surgery was sessful, and Jing Country''s medical level has improved greatly.] In the imperial tent, Xiao Chuchu was having her clothes changed by Liu Chaniang. Looking down, she could see the thin calluses and small wounds on Liu Chaniang''s hands. In just two or three short days, Liu Chaniang''s fingers had been pricked by forceps and needles. It was evident how hard she had been practicing in private since receiving the system skills. [Oh, those dark circles under my mother''s eyes. When I grow up, I''ll get some face masks for her. My mother has worked so hard; she needs a full set of hand cream, eye cream, and face masks.] Xiao Chuchu reached out with her little finger and gently touched Liu Chaniang''s skin, which looked dull fromck of sleep these past two days. Liu Chaniang was startled. Face... mask? At the desk, reading memorials, Xiao Yunzhou quietly perked up his ears. Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts flowed freely, unconsciously thinking of a bunch of things like egg and honey moisturizing face masks, chrysanthemum and wolfberry eye cream, coix seed and green tea face cream... These were all recipes she knew from watching bloggers make DIY skincare products on various video websites for fun in her past life. Now she couldn''t help but think about it, pondering how to make them when she grows up. As Xiao Yunzhou listened, he cast an apologetic nce towards Liu Chaniang, who was changing their daughter''s clothes. He silently noted down his daughter''s recipes, writing them without a word at the bottom of the memorial. * Outside the tent of the intestinal abscess patient. Duoti wanted to go in and see, but was stopped. "Grasnd friend, I''m sorry, but Doctor Meng said that Liu Datou just had abdominal surgery and his wound hasn''t healed yet. If everyonees in casually, it''s easy to bring in evil winds and affect his recovery." There was actually someone guarding the door, not letting Duoti enter. Duoti was somewhat surprised. On the grasnds, there didn''t seem to be such rules. As long as you didn''t disturb the patient''s rest, it was fine. Could it be that they had treated the man to the brink of death and didn''t want the grasnd people to know, to avoid embarrassing Jing Country? Duoti gave Ba Tu a deep look. This fool still thought the man had recovered, not knowing that there was a saying in the Central ins called "the final radiance before death." Just as Duoti was thinking this, he didn''t expect Ba Tu to be so familiar with the procedure. "I understand! Old Hu said, just put on the cowhide clothes and it''ll be fine." "Lord Duoti, you just need to put them on, and then we''ll wash our hands before going in." [Hahaha, damn, I''m dying ofughter. Ba Tu has really been in an ''operating room'' before.] Xiao Chuchu, having changed into new clothes,yfortably on her small bed, spreading out her arms and legs. Out of boredom, she nced at Duoti. Seeing this scene, she burst intoughter. [Ba Tu is even teaching Duoti how to wash his hands, saying he''s not clean enough.] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang couldn''t help but pause their work to continue eavesdropping, thoroughly entertained. Meanwhile, Duoti''s face outside the tent was gradually darkening. "You need to use running water, and you have to wash between your fingernails. Lord Duoti, your hands are really dirty..." Ba Tu clearly had experience. He nned to let the Jing Country Doctor operate on him, so he had been checking on the intestinal abscess soldier''s recovery several times a day. Ba Tu had learned quickly about the disinfection procedures needed to visit patients, and empathized with the process. "Lord Duoti, when I''ve been operated on and have stitches on my chest, if youe to see me, you''ll have to wash this clean too. If youe to see me this dirty, I might get infected by the evil spirits you bring." Ba Tu started to worry about his own ''post-operative infection''. Duoti: "..." He didn''t know what to say. After washing his hands clean and putting on the visitor''s cowhide gown and hat to go in, Duoti could only stare in disbelief. Inside the tent, the man who had his stomach opened was already sitting up, smiling at them as they entered. "Back again, Ba Tu? Have you eaten?" "Yes, yes, I just had a bowl of millet porridge." After seeing the long row of stitches on the man''s stomach and learning that his intestines had truly been pulled out and partially cut away, Duoti was shocked by the medical skills of Jing Country. He''s really alive! On the grasnds, he would most likely have died! Now this patient was up and about, while people at the entrance were saying his wound hadn''t fully healed yet. Well, how much better could it get? Was he expected to jump on a horse immediately? Duoti''s eyes widened in astonishment, truly feeling the gap between Jing Country''s medical skills and those of the grasnds! Did Chu State also possess such exceptional medical expertise? [Ah, Duoti''s loyalty has reached 91%.] The next moment, before Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice finished, Xiao Yunzhou heard Duoti requesting an audience outside the royal tent. "Your Majesty of Jing Country, Duoti humbly requests that you graciously allow Jing Country''s divine doctors to treat Ba Tu." "Please let Jing Country''s Consort Liu perform the suturing for Ba Tu..." Xiao Yunzhou immediately felt smug, but quickly frowned with a hiss. In fact, he shared some of Meng Chun''s concerns about the problems that would arise between the two countries if Ba Tu were to die. But Xiao Chuchu had already started chattering away in his mind. [The appendicitis patient was in so much pain he was unconscious, and with no family by his side, there was truly no choice but to perform emergency surgery.] [But Ba Tu is still conscious, so we should have him sign a pre-operative risk consent form.] [Even modern surgeries carry some risks, there''s no 100% guarantee of safety, let alone in present-day Jing Country.] [We should inform Ba Tu and Duoti of every possible risk. They have the right to know. If Ba Tu is still willing to undergo the surgery, let him sign and put his fingerprint on the form. This way, if anything unforeseen happens, barring medical malpractice, the doctor won''t be held responsible.] As Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts continued to flow, Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes grew brighter and brighter. Ha! The celestial realm really did have so many clever solutions! Chapter 164 "Risks that mighte with the treatment? I need to sign something before you can treat me?" Ba Tu stared wide-eyed. Xiao Yunzhou''s verbal order¡ªincluding the "Immortal Realm surgery risks" overheard from Xiao Chuchu¡ªhad been delivered to Head Imperial Physician Hu. Head Imperial Physician Hu immediately pulled Meng Chun aside to exin the "surgical risks" to Ba Tu and Duoti. "It''s alright, just listen first." "If you''re not brave enough for the surgery, you can still reconsider." It was the first time Duoti had heard a doctor recite a long list of potential risks to a patient. What if they didn''t operate? If they did operate, what were the risks? Not just Ba Tu himself, but even Duoti standing beside him was a bit dazed as he listened. Although the risks sounded scary, these men who licked blood off their des usually lived with their heads hanging by a thread anyway. What they feared most wasn''t danger, but the unknown. If everything was crystal clear, and the doctor could exin it all inly, then their fear actually lessened a bit. Compared to some shamans and witch doctors on the grasnds, at least Duoti and Ba Tu now understood how serious their condition was, no longer in the dark. Ba Tu felt more confident, "Let''s do it! I''ll sign! If that''s not enough, have Lord Duoti sign for me too!" Duoti: "..." He frowned for a long while before finally speaking, "I want to be in the medical tent to observe while you operate on Ba Tu." Duoti was still cautious, afraid the Jing Country doctors might pull some tricks. His request to enter as "family" was highly appreciated by Meng Can, "Fine, if he wakes up midway, you hold him down! We''re short on strong men anyway." Duoti''s breath caught. Meng Can was eager to start, "When do we begin? No time like the present. I took your pulse yesterday, Ba Tu, and you''re in good condition. No need to dy further!" Meng Can reasoned, "While Lady Consort Liu is here, before she returns to the pce, she can stitch you up nicely. Otherwise, only my nephew will be avable, and if he stitches you up ugly, don''t cry about it." Ba Tu panicked upon hearing this, "Today, let''s do it today!" Duoti listened from the side, his mouth twitching, but he held back. Ba Tu was the one concerned, and he had no right to influence Ba Tu''s personal choice. With Meng Can, Meng Chun, Head Imperial Physician Hu, and Lady Consort Liu all present, this was clearly the best "surgical" team. Duoti didn''t dare let Ba Tu dy either. That afternoon, Duoti apanied the freshly bathed Ba Tu into the medical tent. Washing hands, fumigating with vinegar, then disinfecting with strong alcohol¡ªDuoti felt like ayer of skin was peeling off his hands. Finally, Ba Tu drank some alcohol and took the "anesthetic powder" prepared by Head Imperial Physician Hu, falling into a deep sleep. "Duoti, my lord, all my money is in my shoe sole... If anything happens to me, send it back to my mother..." Duoti opened his mouth, but before he could respond, Ba Tu was already fast asleep. "Ba Tu?" "Ba Tu!" Duoti was shocked. Even the strongest alcohol on the grasnds couldn''t knock Ba Tu out with just one cup. "Stop calling. You could shout until your throat is raw, and he still wouldn''t respond." "...!" A full hour and a half passed, until the sun was nearly setting, before Xiao Yunzhou finally received good news. "Your Majesty, great joy! We really did dig out two small fragments from that grasnd man''s chest...!" Wei Zheng hurried to report the good news, "Head Imperial Physician Hu says it went very smoothly. Ba Tu hasn''t woken up yet, but they''ll observe him overnight. As long as he doesn''t develop a fever, there shouldn''t be any major issues." Xiao Yunzhou had a smile on his face even before Wei Zheng came in to speak. Because Xiao Chuchu''s live broadcast had beaten him to it! [While my mother was doing the sutures, Duoti looked at her as if she were an immortal!] [I felt like he was about to kneel down~ Now that my mother has finished stitching, he''s still in a daze, haha.] Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts had already informed Xiao Yunzhou of the surgery results. She was still savoring the moment. [Duoti: Mother asked me why I was kneeling to watch the suturing~] [Hiya, Duoti''s loyalty to my mother has reached 100%!] At this point, Xiao Yunzhou could no longer hide the smile on his face. [Aww, Duoti has been added to the elite gallery.] [Elite description: Whenever Duoties into contact with Jing Country soldiers, he may pass on his years of charging experience to them.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. Then, he heard another exmation from his daughter. [Woohoo, two new characters have been added to the elite gallery for potential romance!] [Oh my, it''s actually the twin daughters of the Chu State''s Prime Minister.] Xiao Yunzhou: "???" Huh? The daughters of a high-ranking official close to the King of Chu? Are they really elite characters? The King of Chu has never had good intentions, always trying to trip up his Jing Country. Xiao Yunzhou''s expression grew serious at the thought. [Chu State Twin Beauties (Elite): Two of the five great beauties of Chu State, with great influence among young talents.] [If sessfully recruited, they will upy two slots in the elite gallery, and there''s a possibility of gaining the loyalty of the Chu State''s Prime Minister.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened at this. The King of Chu was cunning, always fond of nting spies and informants in others'' territories. What if their Jing Country managed to recruit the Chu State''s Prime Minister and cultivate him as an informant? Would that work? What a move¡ªan eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth! The more Xiao Yunzhou thought about it, the more excited he became. He took a deep breath to suppress his restless heart. [The system hints that because we''ve sessfully collected three elite characters, Jing Country''s national power has significantly increased recently.] [So it will attract more elites to Jing Country.] [The Chu State Twin Beauties will secretly arrive in the capital of Jing Country in theing days.] Xiao Yunzhou gasped. So soon? He wasn''t even prepared yet. "Wei Zheng! Go tell Head Imperial Physician Hu that We and Concubine Liu have stayed here for quite some time, and it''s about time we return to the pce." Originally, he hade to observe the sparring between the grasnd warriors and Jing soldiers. But now, apart from Duoti, there were hardly any grasnd warriors in good health. How could they fight now? Anyway, Duoti had already submitted, willingly teaching them horsemanship and grasnd marching techniques. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t n to stay in the military camp any longer, wasting time. "Leave the sparring until Ba Tu recovers. Let Hou Yuchuan and the Duke of Dingguo oversee it." [Ah, I haven''t yed enough yet.] Xiao Chuchu whimpered. Xiao Yunzhou hugged his daughter tenderly to console her, "We''lle again next time~ Be good, Chuchu~" On the day the Emperor and Concubine Liu were to return to the pce, not only did all the Jing Country soldiers kneel to see them off, but even the grasnd people, who had always been proud and looked down on Jing soldiers, performed their most respectful grasnd ceremony towards Xiao Yunzhou and Concubine Liu''s carriage. Ba Tu, still wrapped in bandages, was supported by Duoti as he kowtowed on the ground. "Lord Duoti, I... I deserve death." "I kind of want to stay in Jing Country now..." ! Who doesn''t?! Not only the other grasnd soldiers, but even Duoti''s expression couldn''t help but changeplexly. Jing Country was so good! They had food and drink, winter clothes and nkets, and such skilled doctors. Even the consorts in Jing Country''s imperial harem were as kind, beautiful, and capable as immortals. Duoti watched the carriage depart with reverence. That night, he went out of the military camp for some air and ran into a Chu State spy. "General Duoti! What are your intentions? I''ve sought you out many times, but you keep avoiding me and haven''t taken any action?" Duoti narrowed his eyes, "I''m thinking." "Thinking about what?" the Chu spy questioned impatiently. "Does Chu State have down jackets?" "W-what?" "Does Chu State have chicken wraps? Instant noodles?" "Huh?" "Does Chu State have suturing techniques?" "?" The Chu spy lookedpletely bewildered, unable to answer any of the questions. Duoti nced at him and shook his head with a sigh, "Go back and tell the King of Chu that I''ll return everything he sent me in the past when I go back to the grasnds." "What? Duoti, what are you saying! If your Khan finds out you epted gifts from us¡ª" "If the King of Chu wants to report me, let him tell the Khan. Anyway, I''ve changed my mind. I don''t n to help Chu State anymore." Chu State had nothing he wanted. There''s a saying in the Central ins: A good bird chooses a tree to perch on. What''s wrong with him choosing the better Jing Country? Duoti pulled an arrow from his quiver, snapped it with a crack, and threw it on the ground! "My rtionship with Chu is like this broken arrow! If youe looking for me again, I''ll personally capture you and take you to the Jing camp!" "Oh, and when I return tonight, I''ll tell the Jing soldiers that I saw suspicious figures here, likely Chu people." The Chu spy''s eyes widened, and he fled backwards in a sh! But Duoti shot him in the arm! * [Aww, the morning market is so fun~] Meanwhile, Xiao Yunzhou brought Concubine Liu and their precious little princess Xiao Chuchu back to the pce, deliberately choosing the bustling market for an incognito outing. He had the expert Jiu Xiao follow Fifth Prince Cheng Qian and Liu Chaniang, who was holding Chuchu. Xiao Yunzhou walked behind with two guards. Just to let his yful daughter browse along the way, Xiao Yunzhou nearly worried his guards to death. Fortunately, themon people''s focus wasn''t on the emperor now. Everyone was still ying the board game ''Tycoon'' every day, or busy with their livelihoods, and no one would pay attention to the faces of passersby. "Fresh steamed buns, hot off the steamer!" "Customer, would you like some noodles?" [Wow, buns and tbreads, Jing Country has quite a variety of food too~] [I''m hungry, but I really miss jianbing guozi, youtiao with sticky rice, youtiao with soy milk or tofu pudding, xiaolongbao, pan-fried buns and potstickers~] [Wow, walking around is making me thirsty, I kind of miss bubble tea.] As Xiao Chuchu''s mouth watered, her thoughts ran wild. Youtiao? Bubble tea? Xiaolongbao? The whole family was stirred by Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice, their throats bobbing. Only two thoughts remained in Xiao Yunzhou''s mind. First, return to the pce and whip up some kind of face mask for Concubine Liu to use. Second, figure out how to recreate these Immortal Realm delicacies! Third, win over the daughter of Chu State''s Prime Minister! Chapter 165 After returning to the pce, Xiao Chuchu began her monotonous days of being able to eat supplementary foods like millet porridge. With only nd tastes in her mouth, she longed even more for various delicacies. Every day in her dreams, she saw fried chicken, milk tea, beer... The next morning she would wake up drooling. Liu Chaniang was at her wit''s end, working with Zhang Jia to concoct different supplementary foods the child could eat, while also having the imperial physician check the baby''s pulse. "Our Chuchu is just craving food. I see no problems with her digestion," Consort Min said confidently. "This morning when I was eating longan buns, her big eyes were staring fixedly at the bun in my hand." Consort Min understood all too well. When she used to eat vegetarian, her eyes would water at the mere sight of meat! [Ah, Auntie Min understands me.] Xiao Chuchu cooed. "Come, Chuchu, want to try some goat''s milk? Hm?" "Is it because there''s no vor in your mouth, you poor dear~" Consort Min teased her, about to let her lick some goat''s milk from the spoon. Suddenly, Xiao Chuchu''s eyes lit up. She pushed the spoon in Consort Min''s hand to the side, sending it tumbling into Liu Chaniang''s cup of Dragon Well tea. With a ssh, the milky white goat''s milk instantly mixed with the fragrant, pale green tea! Xiao Chuchu nced at it. [Oh my, there''s not quite enough milk, but I''ve heard goat''s milk is suitable for everyone and can be used to make milk tea.] Is this milk tea? Liu Chaniang froze, looking at her teacup. "Oh dear, Chuchu, be good. We mustn''t make messes~" Consort Min gently cooed, about to move her farther from the teacup. But Liu Chaniang picked up the small amount of now slightly milky tea and tentatively took a sip. "Hey Chaniang, let Qiu Li pour you a fresh cup," Consort Min said, pping her thigh. "That goat''s milk got in there!" But the next moment, Liu Chaniang''s eyes brightened. Because Consort Min disliked the gamey taste of goat''s milk, she always added sugar when drinking it. Now mixed with the Dragon Well tea, the strong milk vor and the tea''s clear, slightly bitter taste bnced each other out perfectly. Milk tea ¡ª milk and tea, sweet and bitter, creamy and clear, achieving a delicate equilibrium. Delicious! Liu Chaniang even thought it could use a bit more sugar and goat''s milk. Her expression as she drained the cup in one go and licked her lips to savor the aftertaste caught Consort Min by surprise. "This is edible?" Consort Min couldn''t believe it. Liu Chaniang saw her shocked expression, then looked down to see Xiao Chuchu in Consort Min''s arms, staring intently with a slightly dazed expression. Liu Chaniang couldn''t help but smile. "You try it, sister Min." "!" Consort Min was skeptical. "Don''t trick me. You know I can''t stand bitter or gamey vors. I can''t even drink strong tea." "Really now, don''t team up with your precious daughter to fool me..." Despite her words, Consort Min doted on Xiao Chuchu no less than Liu Chaniang did. She promptly scooped another spoonful of goat''s milk, pretending to bring it to Chuchu''s mouth. "Little Chuchu, will you make this goat''s milk tea for me too? Hm?" Goat''s milk tea! Liu Chaniang''s eyes lit up. What a good name. Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened too. [My Auntie Min does have a bit of cleverness about her.] Of course she was happy to y along. She couldn''t make otherplex dishes as a small infant. But milk tea? No problem. At once, she stretched out her little arms again, and with a ssh, pushed the spoonful of goat''s milk into the teacup in Consort Min''s other hand. "Oh my! How clever our Chuchu is~" Consort Min lowered her head and nted a big kiss on her. "Our Chuchu knows I''ve been busy with pce affairstely and lost a lot of weight. She wants me to have more nourishment, to drink all the goat''s milk instead of tea. Isn''t that what you mean?" [...] Liu Chaniang wanted to speak but held back. But Consort Min thought everything the little princess did was right. She immediately took the tea she didn''t usually like drinking, plus a spoonful of the goat''s milk she hated,bined into a terrifying concoction, and downed it all at once like facing an execution, eyes closed. "My precious Chuchu~" "No matter how awful it tastes, if you bring it to my lips, I''ll drink it without a second thought!" Consort Min was bold. Without further ado, she clenched her teeth and gulped it down, forcing a smile. "No matter how awful..." But halfway through her sentence, she stopped. She smacked her lips, and her expression of endurance grew increasingly strange, increasinglyplex... It''s... it''s quite tasty? Huh??? Consort Min''s eyes lit up. "Hey, hey, Chaniang, this is good! Qiu Li, Qiu Li, quickly bring another bowl of goat''s milk, add more sugar, and bring more tea!" As she spoke, Cheng Qian and Cheng Shan arrived. "You''vee at just the right time. Quick, try this new tea Chuchu created." Cheng Shan was stunned. His chubby, baby-faced cheeks immediately broke into a grin. "Mother, didn''t you misspeak? Don''t you mean the new tea Consort Liu created?" "Mother, you only know how to eat. Now you can''t even speak clearly. Tsk tsk." Cheng Shan shook his head. "No wonder I read slower than Fifth Brother. I learned it all from you." Consort Min: "???" She directly poured two spoonfuls of goat''s milk into the teacup and brought it to her son''s mouth. "Hurry up and drink. Shut that mouth of yours!" Cheng Shan hissed and recoiled. "What is this?! It''s poisonous! My own mother wants to harm her son!" He was about to flee, squealing like a pig. But Consort Min was trained in martial arts. She grabbed him in one swift motion and held him tight. "The little princess isn''t even six months old and she''s already concocting delicious things for her mother. You''re almost ten and all you do is run your mouth!" "Ah, Chuchu really made this... It looks disgusting..." Cheng Shan took one look and t-out rejected it. His tastes were somewhat inherited from Consort Min; he disliked the gamey vor of goat''s milk. Plus, being young, he didn''t like the tea that adults enjoyed. He preferred meat. "Fifth Brother, give it to Fifth Brother!" Cheng Shan struggled to lean back. "It''s his little sister''s creation, let him drink it." But in the blink of an eye, he saw that Cheng Qian had already sat down and was pouring the sweetened goat''s milk into his own teacup, mimicking Consort Min. He swirled it around and took a sip. He finished it in two or three gulps, a look of enjoyment on his face. "Mm, not bad. Chuchu is clever," Cheng Qian praised before even setting down his cup. Is it real or fake? Cheng Shan''s face screamed that Fifth Brother was lying, but he couldn''t help believing it. He leaned towards the cup Consort Min offered, closed his eyes as if facing death, and took a small sip. He smacked his lips. "It''s strange... Oh, but it seems okay?" Cheng Shan smacked his lips again and took another sip. "Let me taste it again." "Mm... I''ll try once more." "I''ll have another sip..." Four sipster, he had finished Consort Min''s entire daily portion of goat''s milk. "You ungrateful child!" Consort Min smacked her son repeatedly. [Hahaha~] Xiao Chuchu looked at the ground and giggled uncontrobly. [Milk tea, who could resist?] Cheng Qian had alreadye over to hug his little sister. He tried to bring a small spoon of sheep''s milk mixed tea to his sister''s lips. "Would you like to try, sister?" He knew this must be something from the celestial realm. His sister must have wanted to eat it herself, which is why she conjured it up. But to his surprise, as soon as Xiao Chuchu smelled the gamey odor from the spoon, she tightly closed her little mouth. [Hmm, I still prefer cow''s milk tea.] [Big brother and the others think it tastes good because they''re used to drinking sheep''s milk. Today, when they taste sheep''s milk that''s like milk tea, they think it''s better than before.] [But my pte is already ustomed to cow''s milk tea~] [Ah, I miss my milk green tea, my full cup of red grapefruit tea, my one-liter fruit tea~] Xiao Chuchu mused inwardly. Her thoughts made Cheng Qian feel a bit sorry for her. "Mother," Cheng Qian couldn''t help but speak up, "Father Emperor has called us to observe the bravery of the grasnd soldiers at the camp." "I think I heard them say they also have cow''s milk and horse milk. Could those taste better than sheep''s milk?" "I can see that sister doesn''t like sheep''s milk at all." Xiao Chuchu''s eyes lit up. [Horse milk won''t do, but cow''s milk would be fine!] [I also want to put small taro balls and sesame rice balls in my milk tea to drink together~] [Or red beans and pudding~] "???" Is this edible? Cheng Qian''s eyebrows were quivering. * "Young miss, if the master finds out, he''ll surely be angry." At the city gate of the capital of Jing Country. A pair of ''young men'' with ckened faces, disguised as youths, jumped down from a carriage. A round-faced maid beside them hurriedly advised. "Little Yuan, call us young masters, don''t reveal our identities. Don''t worry, we''vee from the academy, saying we''re on a study tour. No one will suspect anything." "That''s right, the peddler at our academy''s entrance said that Jing Country has recentlye up with many fun and delicious things..." "Come on, let''s go try this so-called roast duck first. I heard it''s sweet." "Young miss... I mean, young master, wait for me!" Chapter 166 "Your Majesty, Concubine Liu says that if you have time, she invites you to her chambers. The Little Princess is preparing fresh tea snacks for everyone," Wei Zheng reported jubntly to Xiao Yunzhou. This was the first time Concubine Liu had invited the Emperor over. And it was about the Little Princess too. This news was cause for great joy, and Wei Zheng wouldn''t let anyone else steal the honor of delivering it. Sure enough, as soon as Xiao Yunzhou heard this, he decisively put down the memorial he was holding. His exhausted face lit up with happiness and excitement, tinged with pleasant surprise. "Snacks prepared by the Little Princess?" "Indeed!" Wei Zheng smiled, as if he were a bird delivering good tidings. "While you were talking to Minister Jiang from the Ministry of Revenue earlier, this servant inquired about the details. It turns out Consort Min was feeding the Little Princess some goat''s milk, and in her yfulness, the Little Princess pushed the milk spoon into Concubine Liu''s teacup." "As a result, they all found it delicious." Xiao Yunzhou stood up abruptly, a sudden realization dawning on him. "Could this be... milk tea?" "Huh?" Wei Zheng was momentarily stunned. Xiao Yunzhou was ted. "Come, Wei Zheng. You''re in for a treat today. When we get to Concubine Liu''s ce, I''ll reward you with a taste as well." "Oh! This servant eagerly awaits!" Wei Zheng''s face immediately lit up with joy. "No wonder I heard magpies singing when I woke up this morning." "So it turns out this servant will have the fortune of tasting the Little Princess''s handiwork today~ Our Little Princess is truly more clever than a fairy, able to prepare tea snacks at just a few months old." Wei Zheng''s ttery hit the mark, going straight to Xiao Yunzhou''s heart. Wasn''t that exactly right? Xiao Yunzhou took long strides, heading towards Concubine Liu''s quarters without looking back. Concubine Liu''s newly assigned Changchun Pce was situated in a location that the Imperial Astronomical Bureau had determined to be most beneficial for women. Changchun Pce not only suited Concubine Liu''s birth chart but was also advantageous for the Little Princess. Although it was quite a distance for Xiao Yunzhou to walk, he was more than willing to go on foot. This was called devotion. To taste the tea snacks ''prepared'' by the Little Princess, who was the reincarnation of a celestial maiden, one must approach with utmost sincerity! By the time Xiao Yunzhou reached Changchun Pce, he was drenched in sweat, but he felt invigorated and so hungry he could eat a feast right away. "Where''s my Chu Chu?" "My Little Princess can already prepare tea snacks?" As soon as Xiao Yunzhou entered Changchun Pce, he asked these questions, feigning ignorance, his eyes sparkling. But when he stepped into the main hall''s inner chamber, he paused. He saw Consort Min holding Chu Chu, who was dressed in a red jacket, looking like a celestial child from a Guanyin painting. They were standing in front of arge eight-immortals pear blossom wood table. The others ¨C Concubine Liu, Cheng Qian, and Cheng Shan ¨C were all gathered around the table, their eyes fixed on it. On this eight-immortals table were arrayed various blue and white porcin bowls, tes,dles, and cups. As Xiao Yunzhou approached, he discovered that some contained milky white goat''s milk, some red beans, small glutinous rice balls, and various fruits cut into cubes and chunks. On the other side of the table were various tribute teas, along with ice that had been dug out from some ice cer. "How reckless! The weather hasn''t warmed up yet, and you''re messing around with ice indoors. If someone catches a cold and falls ill, it would be disastrous!" Xiao Yunzhou was startled. Fortunately, the quick-witted Qiu Li had ced the ice bowl in the farthest corner of the table. Hearing this, she quickly hugged the bowl and retreated a few steps. "It''s fine, Father. Don''t be such a worrywart~" the Sixth Prince, Cheng Shan, who was always talkative and bold, spoke up. "We have warm kang beds and braziers burning. It''s so hot we''re almost sweating." "Even if you''re sweating, you''re not allowed to eat ice," Xiao Yunzhou decreed as he sat down. But soon, the Sixth Prince Cheng Shan snorted, "Whether you eat it or not depends on little sister. If she doesn''t give you any, you won''t get to eat it anyway." Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. [Hmm, Emperor Dad is quite health-conscious, not wanting to eat cold things.] Xiao Chuchu, held in Consort Min''s arms, transmitted her thoughts the next moment. [Alright then, I''ll make you a hot cup of red bean Four Seasons Spring milk tea.] Four Seasons Spring milk tea? Xiao Yunzhou smiled upon hearing this. What a good name! The Little Princess, reincarnation of a celestial maiden, also felt that the mortal realm of Jing Country was like spring in all four seasons? That her imperial father could enjoy eternal spring and live for ten thousand years? Xiao Yunzhou beamed with joy as he watched Xiao Chuchu struggle in Consort Min''s arms, reaching out her adorable little hand to point at items on the table. First, she pointed to a blue and white porcin lotus bowl containing light ck tea. Xiao Yunzhou chuckled when he saw it. Was this Four Seasons Spring? Wasn''t this Beiyuan tea? Originating from Phoenix Mountain, it wasn''t something he usually enjoyed drinking. [Aww, after the Four Seasons Spring tea base, we add milk!] Xiao Chuchu extended her little fist towards a bowl of cow''s milk. Qiu Li quickly followed with a teacup, scooping two spoonfuls of Four Seasons Spring tea, followed by a spoonful of milk. Then, when Xiao Chuchu pointed to the sweet red bean soup, Qiu Li hurriedly added a spoonful of this red bean broth to the teacup. After stirring it well with a small spoon, she carefully brought it to Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. It wasn''t that he doubted the celestial realm, but... was this really... drinkable? Although Beiyuan tea was rtively mildpared to other teas, it still had the strong backbone of tea. This tea vor,bined with the gamey milk, and then mixed with the cloyingly sweet red bean soup... What kind of concoction was this? If Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t hear her thoughts, he would have suspected that his daughter was just pointing randomly. "Father, try it quickly," the Sixth Prince Cheng Qian urged excitedly. Concubine Liu, Consort Min, and Cheng Qian all looked on expectantly. Xiao Yunzhou''s hand felt as heavy as a thousand catties, but seeing his daughter Chu Chu watching him with her big, bright eyes, he hesitated no longer. [If Emperor Dad likes it sweet, I can add a small rice ball to it~] Xiao Chuchu wasn''t quite sure of her old man''s taste preferences yet. This sentence scared Xiao Yunzhou into quickly raising the teacup to his lips. Joking aside, adding rice balls to the tea... how could the Little Princesse up with such an idea! Was this still tea, or was it soup, or a dessert? Xiao Yunzhou''s face was about to turn green. Eating tangyuan soaked in tea... the tastes of the celestial realm were indeed different from the mortal world, unique and peculiar. Mortals probably couldn''t easily appreciate it... But just as he was thinking this, the red bean mixed with the silky milk tea rolled down his throat, and he froze for a moment. A rich, creamy vor, neither rank nor gamey, gently caressed Xiao Yunzhou''s teeth. Before he could swallow, the fragrant and refreshing Beiyuan tea base began to seep through the milky vor, thread by thread. He thought this would be the end, but unexpectedly, a honey-like sweetness, along with the soft red beans cooked to perfection, blossomed in his mouth, leaving a lingering sweetness and a clear, pleasant aftertaste. The fragrance, smoothness, sweetness, richness, freshness, and mellow taste in his mouth... they rose and fell like waves, one after another. After swallowing, a gentle sweetness and fragrance lingered in his mouth, refusing to dissipate for a long time. It was actually delicious! Xiao Yunzhou held the teacup in a daze, not realizing he had already drained the entire cup of red bean milk tea. He had just walked all the way from the imperial study and was feeling somewhat tired, but now he suddenly felt refreshed, all his fatigue gone! [What a pity the Emperor Father doesn''t eat ice, otherwise iced drinks would taste even better.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly and wiped his forehead. "As We drink, We seem to be feeling a bit overheated." "Cheng Shan, it''s all your fault. You mentioned lighting the kang bed-stove and braziers, which has drawn out all the heat in Our body." Sixth Prince Cheng Shan: "???" [In that case, let''s prepare an ice-cold fruit drink bucket for Emperor Father!] So thought Xiao Chuchu. Xiao Yunzhou immediately leaned forward in anticipation. Drink... bucket? It sounded like a rice bucket... Xiao Yunzhou felt both worried and expectant. But after Xiao Chuchu pointed at five or six fruit tters, she thought to herself, [As expected of modern wisdom''s milk tea and fruit tea~ Even the Emperor finds it delicious. Could we open a milk tea shop in Jing Country now?] [Howe I''m so business-savvy~] Xiao Yunzhou pped his thigh! Chapter 167 Xiao Yunzhou stayed at Changchun Pce for nearly two hours. Fruit-infused tea, with five or six types of tribute fruits, was ced in clear tea. Cubes of peach, apple, and tangerine... tender pink and jade yellow, dyed the green tea into a jewel-like translucent color. Poured into newly blown transparent ss cups, it was a sight to behold. The aroma of fruit and tea wafted through the air. The taste was refreshing and slightly sweet, even more invigorating and crisp when chilled. If Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t focused on maintaining his health and longevity, he might not have been able to stop drinking. But in the end, he showed restraint and turned to Concubine Liu and the others, "I find this quite enjoyable. You should all try some too." He distributed the fruit-infused tea to Cheng Qian and Cheng Shan, and used a small gold spoon to moisten Little Chuchu''s lips with some fruit juice. However, the children''s portions were not iced, as Xiao Yunzhou was concerned about their young digestive systems. In no time, the group had finished all the fruit tea on the table. Liu Chaniang and Consort Min were still using small gold spoons to scoop out fruit pieces from the ss cups. asionally, they would share a small bite with Chuchu. "I used to think these tangerines were ordinary, but mixed with the tea fragrance, they''re quite good," said Consort Min, who usually didn''t enjoy vegetables, but was now falling in love with fruit tea. "I like the grapes," Cheng Shan had his own preference. He immediately asked Qiu Li to make him a separate portion, "Just the crystal grapes, nothing else." [Hehe, just grapes alone, isn''t that like the grape cheese tea from HeyTea~] Xiao Chuchu thought to herself, blinking. [My sixth brother really knows how to enjoy food.] Xiao Yunzhou listened and gave a rare look of appreciation to his sixth son, "I''d like a portion of just crystal grapes as well." [When strawberries are in season, I''d like to try the cheese strawberry drink~] Xiao Chuchu pondered. [Oh, and a peach-only vor would be nice too~] Xiao Yunzhou silently noted his daughter''s preferences and hurriedly told Qiu Li, "Prepare a separate portion of each of these fruits for me, with milk added." Milk was good for intelligence, he remembered what his daughter had said. Usually, drinking milk alone could be cloying and have a gamey taste, but today Xiao Yunzhou felt he could drink it every day. In no time, Xiao Yunzhou and the others had tried nearly everything on therge square table. Towards the end, Xiao Chuchu became toozy to even point at the table. On the table, some items were ingredients for modern milk tea, while others were creations that Liu Chaniang, Consort Min, and Cheng Shan had requested from the imperial kitchen and tea room, such as crystal dumplings, osmanthus cakes, fermented rice, mung beans, date paste, and longan. Liu Chaniang and Xiao Yunzhou could hear their daughter''s thoughts, so theirbinations were more conservative, resembling traditional milk tea. Cheng Qian was generally indifferent to sweets and stopped after a few cups. Consort Min and Cheng Shan, however, were insatiable. Seeing that Chuchu was tired, they started experimenting on their own, throwing all sorts of ingredients into the milk tea. Besides honey and syrup, they even added salt separately... Surprisingly, it worked out well. "Oh, this salty milk tea is quite good too~" [Aww, that''s called sea salt milk tea!] Xiao Chuchu giggled, forcibly clinging to Consort Min''s hand to take a small spoonful. Cheng Shan was even more adventurous, adding everything the kitchen had sent - red beans, mung beans, job''s tears, glutinous rice, taro balls... all into the milk tea. [Oh, it''s be a family reunion milk tea!] Xiao Chuchu watched from the side, thoroughly amused. After a round or two, everyone had basically grasped the pattern. Sweet on sweet was hard to go wrong. Sweet and saltybinations were a bit risky. Some of Consort Min''s devilishbinations, like adding chili to milk tea, made Xiao Chuchu tightly close her little mouth, unwilling to try. Even the good-natured Liu Chaniang repeatedly declined. By the time the table was nearly empty, everyone had drunk their fill and eaten their stomachs round with toppings. "For dinner, serve something easily digestible," Xiao Yunzhou patted Liu Chaniang''s hand and gave a piercing look to Cheng Shan, who had eaten the most. "In the future, we can''t let the little princess drink these often. She''s still young and should only have a taste asionally..." Just as he was speaking, Wei Zheng, who had been happily sipping milk tea in small mouthfuls, noticed the shadow of a little eunuch flickering outside the window. Wei Zheng frowned and quietly walked out, "What''s the matter? Can''t you see the Emperor and the little princess are enjoying themselves?" "Wei Zheng, news hase from the Ministry of Rites. They say that Duoti has written a letter back to the grasnds about the treatment of Sang Tu." "Sanda Khan is very pleased and wishes to express his gratitude with five hundred cattle and sheep. He also hopes to send two grasnd doctors to Jing Country in the spring to study medicine, with tuition fees to be discussed separately." Upon hearing this, Wei Zheng didn''t dare dy and hurried to inform Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but look at the drowsy little princess. Winning over the heroic figure Duoti not only improved Jing Country''s national strength but also strengthened the connection between Jing Country and Wu Yun Country. Xiao Yunzhou sighed and decided not to linger any longer, "I''ll return to the Imperial Study to handle state affairs. You all rest here." He didn''t dare to rest too much now. Otherwise, wouldn''t it waste the little princess''s painstaking guidance? "Go and call back Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue." "And the Imperial Cab." "The Imperial Kitchen." ... "This roast duck wrapped in pancakes with sweet sauce is truly delicious." Two handsome ''young masters'' who looked extremely simr were feasting in a Beijing duck restaurant in the capital. "Making it ourselves is quite fun." "Yuan, you must try some too." "It''s really interesting, there''s even the duck bones for dry eating, and duck bone soup... three ways to eat one duck." "This is the first time I''ve eaten duck without any gamey taste, and it''s so tender and juicy." "Indeed, young miss... I mean, young master. You rarely ate duck at home before." "That''s right. If it weren''t for the peddler praising Jing Country''s roast duck as if it were heaven-sent, I wouldn''t have wanted to try it." "Let''s pack these to take away. We can have them tonight. I really can''t eat anymore right now." As the two ''handsome young masters'' prepared to leave, their maid seemed hesitant to speak. "Young miss, we just passed by Jing Country''s bank. They say if you deposit ten, you get twelve back. I wonder if it''s true. Are weing back next year? I kind of want to..." "Yuan, be cautious. We''re here for study and travel. Look more, eat more, listen more, but don''t spend money on uncertainties. If war breaks out, it''s hard to say what will happen to the banks." The twin beauties from Chu State, burping from their satisfying roast duck meal, were content but skeptical about Jing Country''s bank. "Grandfather said that even though Jing Country has established diplomatic rtions with Wu Yun Country, their national strength is still not as good as our Chu State." "Jing Country''s treasury is probably severely depleted, which is why they''vee up with this temporary method of borrowing money from the people." In the Imperial Pce, Xiao Yunzhou had no idea that the operating principles of the bank had been urately guessed by the twin beauties from Chu State. "Yuan, the Jing Country''s bank may limp along for a while, but in the long run, it''s unlikely to stay afloat. It''s easy to deposit money, but getting it back out will be quite the challenge." The maid apanying the two ''young masters'' from her homnd was immediately frightened out of any notion of making a deposit. "Thank you for the warning, young master! I nearly lost my purse! So the bank is just a scheme by the Jing Country''s emperor to swindle themon folk!" But no sooner had she spoken than a schr at a nearby table stood up abruptly, his face dark with anger. "You two young masters, are you schrs from Chu State visiting here?" "If you''re from Chu, how can you make such baseless ims about our Jing Country when you don''t understand our situation!" This blue-robed schr, with a frightening birthmark on his left temple, was none other than Zheng Qiru. He was the talented young man with an intelligence score of 99 whom Xiao Chuchu had noticed outside Zhengyang Gate that day. Xiao Yunzhou had treated him with respect then, deeply moving Zheng Qiru, who had always been insecure about his unsightly appearance. He had decided to devote his life to serving the court. So now, when Zheng Qiru heard these two handsome Chu schrs using the Jing emperor of swindling and speaking ill of the Jing Country''s bank, he couldn''t contain his indignation and feltpelled to argue. "Young masters, do you dare to wager that within three days, Chu merchants will willingly conduct transactions at our Jing Country bank?" The two attractive ''schrs'' were taken aback for a moment, but quickly sneered, "Why not? We ept the bet!" * In the imperial study. Xiao Yunzhou set down the memorial about the five hundred cattle and sheep offered by Wu Yun Country. He skipped over the Ministry of Rites and fixed his gaze directly on Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue. Finally, he looked at Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen, who had arrived in a state of confusion. "How embarrassing." "Ministry of Revenue, Imperial Kitchen!" Xiao Yunzhou looked up and let out a long sigh, "I''m embarrassed on your behalf." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue and Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen: "...?" The emperor was having another fit of madness. Hadn''t he just received gifts from the grasnds and enjoyed tea with the little princess? The emperor should be in a good mood, shouldn''t he? They didn''t understand. How had they embarrassed him again? "These five hundred cattle and sheep, as well as the livestock trade brought by the spring market opening - Ministry of Revenue, have you thought about how to handle thisrge influx of grasnd livestock?" "Imperial Kitchen, the Ministry of Revenue now requires allrge expenditures to report project profits and budgets. Do you have any profitable projects nned for this year?" Both Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue and Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen were stunned by these questions. The cattle and sheep had just arrived, so of course they hadn''t had time to think about it. And the Imperial Kitchen had always been responsible for food expenses, with money flowing out for purchases, never any ie. Profitable projects? Were they supposed to start charging the imperial harem for meals? Both men were at a loss. Xiao Yunzhou mmed his hand on the table, "I''m too ashamed to even speak of you!" "???" "?!" Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t asking a question, but making a statement, "My little princess is only four months old, yet she''s alreadye up with a way to make money from this batch of livestock and a method for the Imperial Kitchen to turn a profit!" "How old are you? Aren''t you ashamed?!" "..." "!" "Listen up, I''m going to open a royal milk tea shop." Chapter 168 Xiao Yunzhou''s words directly stunned the Chancellor Fu Cha, the Ministry of Households, and the Imperial Cuisine Court. "Imperial... milk tea shop?" They understood each word separately. But when put together, they couldn¡¯tprehend it at all. "The emperor wants to do business? Even officials do notpete for profit with the public, let alone the Emperor!" Chancellor Fu Cha was the first to oppose. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, he considered those ideas outdated. Who said that the royal family couldn¡¯t get into business? "What do you mean by ''I¡¯mpeting with the public for profit?''" "Is my Jing Country Bankpeting for profit? Is my official salt tradepeting for profit?" Chancellor Fu Cha was stumped by these questions. Xiao Yunzhou shrugged, "You haven''t thought about it, but I have. I suppose I have to lead a part of the public to prosper first." "!" "¡­" Xiao Yunzhou''s audacious pronouncement fell upon a silent Imperial Study. Jing Country has already changed from what it used to be - the emperor, Xiao Yunzhou, now understands the concept ofmodity economics. "Only by turning money into more money could the people of Jing Country be wealthy!" "Those five hundred cattle and sheep, after I eat them, after you eat them, the people get not a single coin. That¡¯s what you callpeting with the public for profit!" "I¡¯m turning them into a source of ie to help the public prosper. Understand?" Now Xiao Yunzhou was expounding like a pro, not holding back even when instructing noble Chancellor Fu Cha. "So, your Majesty, this milk tea..." Jiang Li from the Ministry of Households, whose eyes were shing with greed, interjected. Soon Xiao Yunzhou had Wei Zheng prepare meals for them to taste. "This is a delicious tea snack discovered by the little princess while ying." "Now that spring has just started, melons and fruits are scarce, and only the pce has a few tribute products." Xiao Yunzhou said as he looked towards Jiang Li, "But as soon as spring arrives, we should instruct all the fruit farmers around the country to increase high-quality production quickly. Local growers should deliver fresh fruits to the capital. Those far away should open fruit tea shops in their areas." Jiang Li was salivating, "Brilliant, absolutely brilliant!" The purpose for the cattle and sheep from Wu Yun Country was finally acknowledged, to yield milk for tea. Then, Jing Country''s tea merchants, tea farmers, fruit farmers, fruit merchants could all prosper together! This was not just a simple snack shop! "The milk tea shop idea that the young princess came up with directly invigorated the businesses of Jing Country tea merchants/tea farmers/fruit farmers/fruit merchants." Possibly even the porters and merchants who transport the tea leaves and fruits into the capital stand to benefit. If it is well nned, just a cup of milk tea could support countless people. "The young princess is really smart." Jiang Li was happy to tter. Chancellor Fu Cha was twitching at the corners of his mouth. Xiao Yunzhou looked very pleased and agreed, "Isn''t she? With just a stir of Consort Min''s spoon, she came up with milk tea, haha." Having said that, he turned his gaze to Manager Liao of the Imperial Cuisine Court. Manager Liao of the Imperial Cuisine Court blushed, "I am ipetent ..." "It may be so, but I know you''re not satisfied." Xiao Yunzhou stood up and approached him, "Well, I have another task for you." "On my way back to the pce from the outskirts of the capital, I heard a local mentioning pancake rolls and deep-fried dough sticks." Xiao Yunzhou was thinking about what the little princess would like to eat. The milk tea is ready. Roast duck is avable. Both tastes pretty good, so the pancake rolls and deep-fried dough sticks would probably be no exception. "Thetter is akin to fried dough, and the former seems to be stuff wrapped in a pancake." "There''s also tofu pudding, they say it''s somewhat scalding when scooped out, just like a piece of snow, avable in sweet and savory varieties, perhaps you could study it as well." As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, he let his imagination roam. This tofu pudding, even the young princess could have it since it requires no teeth. The country''s old folks and children must surely love it. Could even open a royal breakfast shop in the future... "Imperial Kitchen, whip this up as soon as possible, let me see what you''re capable of." Manager Liao was drenched in sweat, his back rigid. Fried dough stick? Where did this foode from? Howe he had never heard of it before? But if the emperor said it existed, then he must make it! "Your servant will research and produce it as soon as possible, not to disappoint your majesty." Xiao Yunzhou hummed in agreement, finally turning his gaze to the cab and the Ministry of Household. "This milk tea shop was the little princess''s idea. You bunch of adults surely can''tpete with a child for credit. So, how much of the milk tea shop''s profits should be given to the little princess?" "???" "!" ... Milk tea shop''s establishment was much easierpared to Jing Country Bank, without too manyplicated technologies. Imperial Kitchen sent a master good at making tea snacks to consult about the milk tea vor of that day from Concubine Liu and Consort Min, and soon had a rough idea, fine-tuned the ratio of milk to various kinds of tea, and sugar, and finalized more than a dozen possible auxiliaries. The names of several kinds of milk tea were granted by Shen Mian, the top schr of the year. Soon enough, the capital of Jing Country quietly opened for business overnight. Simultaneously, next to the milk tea shop, another imperial breakfast shop was inaugurated. For the moment, the citizens of Jing Country were bbergasted. "An imperial milk tea shop?" "A shop for imperial breakfast?" What is this? Is the emperor also starting a business? But the smiles quickly returned on the faces of themonfolk. Tacked on the exterior of the milk tea shop was a red notice board, and as before, a person was sent by the Ministry of Household for exnations. "Good uncles and aunties, young talents..." "The milk tea shop uses thetest batch of cow''s milk and goat''s milk sent to Jing Country by Khan Wu Yun." On hearing this, everyone understood. These were tribute gifts, and the emperor had decided to share them! The emperor is so kind! Their faces lit up with smiles. Yet, the official at the door was not finished, "Furthermore, the tea used in this milk teaes from poor tea farmers from the regions of Liang City and Ming Mountain whose tea did not sell wellst year. The emperor has taken their suffering to heart. In order to improve their lives, the government has purchasedrge quantities of tea and is setting up this milk tea shop to provide a safeguard for the tea farmers in the future." Upon hearing this, the city dwellers froze. Those farmers from the surrounding areas who came to the city were rooted to the spot. "What? The emperor bought the tea that the tea farmers couldn''t sell? The emperor has covered it all?" "There are such good deeds?" "What about when we can''t sell our vegetables?" "We have a lot of cabbage!" The official from the Ministry of Household at the entrance of the milk tea shop chuckled at the remark from the old brother carrying two baskets of cabbages, "Rest assured, brother." "Now it''s tea farmers, and before long, it''ll be others." "The emperor is certain to devise methods to ensure that everyone has food to eat and money to earn!" "Ah, Uncle Jiang Li is really efficient. The man he ced to handle affairs at the entrance to the milk tea shop is so eloquent," thought Xiao Chuchu. Again, Xiao Yunzhou took her out for a covert visit. Indeed, just as she thought this, the townsfolk and farmers who initially found it hard to ept the emperor selling drinks seemed invigorated. "We''ll just wait here then!" "Do remember to arrange for us cabbages after the tea nt, your Majesty." "Oh, wow! We should at least support a cup of this milk tea." The rtively well-off denizens of the capital were ready to part with their money and try it out. The gentle-smiled official at the door of the milk tea shop, pointed to the red board at the entrance and announced, "From this day forth, the court will donate a coin for each milk tea sold here, as a subsidy to the local tea farmers to cultivate tea leaves with better color, aroma, and taste." "Every month in the future, we will announce the amount of donation and its utilization." "!" "!!" All the townsfolk and farmers were stunned. So were the passing ''beauteous talent'' and his maidservant who paused in their tracks upon hearing the news, their eyes filled with astonishment. In the drama of life, officials were generally avaricious, coveting the silver coins and grains of the townsfolk. When did the court start to allocate their funds and let ordinary people know where the money went?! "Heh heh, this is modern phnthropy~" Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but nod in agreement. "Hmm? The system says the collection progress of Chu State''s ''Pair of Sisters'' went up by 4%?" Xiao Yunzhou suddenly raised his head, ncing left and right. Chapter 169 Nowadays, except for a small amount of tribute fruits in the pce, fresh fruits are hardly seen in other markets in the capital. Therefore, in the newly opened milk tea shops, there are currently no fruit products avable. They can only wait for shipments or the next season. Even so, there are still many varieties of milk tea, listed on the wooden menu board hanging inside the shop. "Red rice milk tea, five wen." "Red rice and love pea milk tea, seven wen." [Red rice, is that blood glutinous rice?] Xiao Chuchu, being held by Xiao Yunzhou, was wide-eyed with curiosity. [Love pea, that''s red bean?] Xiao Chuchu was amused, [The milk teas named by Elder Shen Mian all have a literary ir. One cup for the schr and hisdy~] "Hignd barley milk tea, five wen." "Golden oat milk tea, five wen." "Double Happiness milk tea (taro ball, choose one more ingredient), eight wen." "Three Rams Bring Prosperity milk tea (taro ball, choose two more ingredients), ten wen." "Family Reunion (choose five ingredients), fifteen wen." [Wow, this is almost no different from modern milk tea shops.] Held by Xiao Yunzhou, Xiao Chuchu soon saw many students staying in the capital, as well as servants and maids from wealthy merchants'' and officials'' families, queuing up to buy and try this novelty. "This is quite interesting. Drinking tea with so many things added. Is this drinking porridge or eating tea?" Onlookers and frugalmoners chatted among themselves. "If the things added inside can fill you up, this price is reasonable. Didn''t they say they added sheep milk and cow milk from Wu Yun Country? The tea on East Street costs two wen a bowl." "If you go further out, tea shops outside the city charge one wen a bowl." "For a meal, five wen isn''t expensive, right? After all, it''s imperial food." Farmers who came for the market were still quite poor, calcting if they could afford to buy just one cup of the cheapest option, wondering if it would fill them up. But the wealthy officials in line werevish without concern for money, "Give me one Family Reunion." "I''ll take one of everything!" These particrly extravagant customers usually queued at the front. Soon, they set an example for the observingmoners. The shop assistants quickly became busy. A crisp bamboo tube, about the length of a small arm, was ced on the table. The assistant added half a cup of clear tea, then snow-white cow''s milk, and arge spoon of red bean syrup. In no time, it was delivered to the counter for the waiting servants outside. This stirred up the watchingmoners. "Five wen for so many things?" "Is it sweet? Did they add sugar?" The servant who just bought it turned and answered, "They add sugar, and even asked if I''m afraid of it being too sweet." "I''m buying it for the young master and miss, and I''m afraid it might be too sweet for them, so I didn''t dare to ask for more sugar." "The assistant said they gave me 50% sugar." "!!!" "?" The observing farmers were dumbfounded. "What? They add sugar to the tea, and you can choose how much?" Sugar was something you had to spend silver to buy. When times were tough at home, sugar water was only given to children, adults couldn''t afford to drink even a sip more. "I''m not afraid of sweetness, can they add more for me?" At this point, the milk tea shop was surrounded so tightly that not even water could seep through. [Well, it seems that if a milk tea shop opened in Jing Country, most of the poormoners would choose full sugar.] Xiao Chuchu realized that modern society was indeed fortunate, where people had grown tired of sweetness and started pursuing health. [I didn''t expect Uncle Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue toe up with the idea of asking customers if they want full sugar or half sugar. That''s impressive.] Hearing his daughter''s praise, Xiao Yunzhou felt somewhat gratified. At least the Imperial Kitchen had found some use. Usually, when the Imperial Kitchen cooks for the Emperor and Empress, they can''t afford to offend any of the masters, so they have to remember everyone''s preferences. This one likes it sweet, that one fears sweetness. This milk tea shop was the Imperial Kitchen''s first business venture, and the imperial chefs were all trembling with fear. Anyway, asking the customers one more question about how sweet they want it doesn''t take much effort. Unexpectedly, they had stumbled upon the same business approach as modern milk tea shops. "I''ll have one too, I''m not afraid of sweetness, add more sugar." "Me too, give me the cheapest five-wen one, with extra sugar." Apart from feeling that they weren''t losing out by getting more sugar than others for their money, themon people also felt respected by the milk tea shop. The hospitality made them feel at home, and the experience was very novel. "I want two Double Happiness, one with taro ball and sesame ball, one with taro ball and love pea. And one Family Reunion." A beautiful ''young master'' and the maid beside them also reached the shop''s service window. This ''young master''s'' gaze soon fell on the shop''s decor, and their critical look softened involuntarily. "I didn''t expect this shop to be so clean," said the ''young master'' with a delicate ck mole under their right eye, in a pleasant voice. "It does live up to the ''imperial'' hype." "Yes, if it were like those tea shops outside, all dusty, we wouldn''t be able to handle it," nodded the other young master with a ck mole at the corner of their left eye, also smiling. They saw that the assistants inside the shop all wore uniform cyan clothes, looking very neat, and even wore caps that tucked in all their hair. When the assistants lowered their heads to work, they didn''t speak, and their movements were quick and efficient. At the counter, the cashier only handled money, while the operator only prepared drinks, working in cooperation. "Interesting, I wonder how it tastes." All three of them were somewhat expectant. "Three cups, do you like sweetness?" asked the cashier. The leading ''young master'' was startled for a moment, then quickly nodded and shook their head, "I like it, but I''m also afraid of it being too sweet." "Young... master, I''m not afraid of it being too sweet..." the maid behind them eagerly spoke up. The cashier nodded, "Then how about 70% sugar for two cups, and 100% sugar for the other one?" The two ''talented schrs'' exchanged a nce, their eyes shing with interest, "That''s fine." "With so many cups, how can you remember who wants how much sugar?" The cashier looked up at them, chuckled, and then used his brush to make circles and marks on three empty bamboo tubes. The two ''talented schrs'' immediately blushed, realizing they had asked a silly question. It turned out the staff wrote it on the empty bamboo cups. The milk tea-making assistants, looking at these marked annotations, would know how to prepare the drinks. Convenient and urate. "Is this imperial shop really run by the court?" the schr with the beauty mark under their right eye couldn''t help but ask again. The cashier quickly collected the money and gave them a wooden tag with the three milk teas written on it, "Yes, it is. Please wait in the empty space to the side. Next customer, step forward!" The schr immediately blushed, realizing they had affected the cashier''s speed. But when she turned her head to look, she was startled. When they had arrived earlier, hardly anyone had been willing to queue up to buy from this milk tea shop. Upon observation, it was mostly well-dressed people from wealthy families. But now, quite a fewmon folk in in clothes had started to line up. At this moment, the queue had even extended to the front of the neighboring calligraphy and painting shop! "Miss, it seems the national treasury of Jing Country is truly desperate for money," Yuan the maid remarked in a hushed voice. "In our Chu State, the court has never sold food to themon people. And this cup is quite expensive." Ordinary folks obviously couldn''t afford to drink it every day. Those who could frequent the shop were likely merchants and officials'' families. The court was clearly after the silver of these wealthy people! How desperate for money they must be! Yuan the maid promptly clutched her own purse tightly. "The Jing Country court is really good at extorting money. Miss, I think we''d better head home soon..." But she quickly received their three cups of milk tea from the nearby counter. As Yuan spoke, she lowered her head to take a sip from the ''Family Reunion'' bamboo cup. "If we don''t leave soon, all our money will be snatched by Jing Country..." But after just one sip, she couldn''t continue speaking. The warm, fragrant, and delicious milk tea instantly slid across her lips and teeth, silky smooth with a lingering sweet aftertaste. Because five different toppings had been added, there was an abundance of ingredients. This single sip brought forth the soft and glutinous red beans and the chewy rice balls. As she instinctively chewed in her mouth, the sweet and smooth textures, along with the springy softness, added sweetness upon sweetness, instantly capturing her heart! She had never tasted such delicious tea and snacks before! Why did it have to be in Jing Country!? "If we''re to leave, it should be after we see the result of our bet with that schr," said the beauty with the mole by her right eye. "Yuan, don''t be in such a hurry." Yuan was currently using her spoon to scoop up rice balls, mixing them with the milk tea, and had already taken two big mouthfuls. At this moment, her cheeks werepletely puffed out. Mmm... "Mmmph... Young Miss, I''m... not in such a hurry anymore..." "???" Chapter 170 The Ji sisters were the precious granddaughters of Ji Duan, the Prime Minister of Chu State. Ji Duan had always raised his granddaughters as if they were boys. From a young age, the two sisters studied with tutors, receiving the same education as boys would. Chu State was wealthier than Jing Country, with more developed agriculture andmerce. The Ji sisters grew up in luxury, tasting all kinds of delicacies. They didn''t find milk tea particrly special. "Yuan, Grandfather said we shouldn''t overindulge no matter how delicious something is. We must be grateful for what we have. Swallow what''s in your mouth before you speak." "You''ve had sheep''s milk and cow''s milk from the grasnds at home before." Chu State had many peddlers who traded with the grasnds. While others couldn''t get sheep''s milk, they had it so often at the Prime Minister''s residence in Chu State that they were tired of it. Even their maids had tasted it plenty of times and didn''t find it special anymore. "The fine Longjing tea at home is far more beautiful and clear than this tea." The two sisters felt Yuan was too excitable when going out. "We have rice porridge with rouge powder at home too..." But as she said this, Ji Xiayue, the elder sister, noticed that the maid Yuan hadn''t listened to a word. Her bamboo cup, which was originally nine-tenths full, was now less than half full. "..." The Ji sisters could only helplessly pull the little maid aside. "If Nanny Li saw you behaving like this at home, she would definitely scold you¡ª" But they didn''t finish their sentence. After all, they were still young, and curiosity got the better of them. They carefully took a small sip from their own bamboo cups. Afraid of the gamey taste, they didn''t dare drink much, thinking the vor might be strange. But with just one sip, the doubt, hesitation, and confusion in their eyes were reced by sparkling satisfaction! "Youngdies, quick, try the little sesame balls inside~" The soft white balls, rolled into tiny spheres, were something Ji Xiayue had never imagined would appear in a tea soup. Yet they fit so perfectly. With a slight bite, the thinyer of snow-white glutinous rice skin broke, releasing a fine, pitch-ck sesame filling from inside. Sweet, soft, and warm, with a fragrant oiliness, they could be eaten one after another even on their own. But after two or three, they became slightly cloying. At this moment, the mellow, clear tea fragrance would wash over the pte,pletely eliminating any possibility of sweetness overload, leaving only a faint aroma and milky taste on the tongue. "...It''s actually quite good." The Ji sisters tasted their own and then tried each other''s. "This milk tea is so amazing, it seems to go well with everything. The taro balls are chewy, the honey balls are sweet and soft, the Acacia confusa seeds are tender, the Job''s tears are soft yet have texture, and the rice with rouge powder is just the right level of smoothness," Ji Qiuyue discovered after careful tasting. "This milk tea is not simple. It will likely be a popr business on every street corner soon." It was easy to make, the ingredients weren''tplicated, and the sweet, soft taste was suitable for both toothless elderly and children. "Even if it were introduced in Chu State, it would do good business." How did the Jing Country courte up with such a novel food? "That''s so true, youngdies. If this milk tea were avable in our Chu State capital, I''d definitely be unable to resist buying it every day. At five coins a day for the cheapest one, I could still afford it~" Yuan was clearly a high-ranking maid with a good ie. "Oh my, youngdies, do you think there might be peddlers from our Chu State who want to start a milk tea business? Wouldn''t we lose our bet with that schr from Jing Country?" The Ji sisters'' hearts skipped a beat. "It''s alright, our bet was about whether Chu people would trade with the Jing Country Bank," the elder sister, Ji Xiayue, quickly regained herposure. "This milk tea is convenient, but it has a problem ¨C the ingredients are easily imitated, and the cost is not high." "Not only can Jing Country make it themselves, but neighboring countries who want to start a milk tea business could easily learn how to do it. This milk tea couldn''t possibly be a reason for merchants from neighboring countries to borrow from the Jing Country Bank." As they spoke, the Ji sisters regained their confidence. There was no way they could lose! [Oh, that''s right, milk tea isn''t that difficult.] Xiao Chuchu, sitting in the carriage embraced by Xiao Yunzhou, secretly overheard the sisters'' discussion and couldn''t help but admire the wisdom of these Chu State beauties. [Milk tea is easily imitated. In modern times, there are countless milk tea brands.] [Only by constantly innovating vors while maintaining the quality of ssic tastes can a business survive in the long run.] Xiao Yunzhou listened and was immediately enlightened. Bystanders see things clearer; one word can wake up a dreamer. Indeed, most things in this world can''t be monopolized. To maintain one''s position, one must constantly strive forward, innovate, and always stay ahead of others. Xiao Yunzhou made up his mind to have the Imperial Kitchen continue to improve upon their return. [Hehe, these sister flowers are tough on the outside but soft on the inside. They speak ill of the milk tea, but their bodies are very honest ¨C they''ve finished a big cup.] [The elite collection rate of the Chu State beauties has silently increased to 23% in the time it takes to drink a cup of milk tea, it''s killing me.] Xiao Chuchu looked at the system progress and was truly impressed. [The system says I''ve discovered the foodie attribute of the Chu State beauties, hahaha.] Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. Foodie? This heavenly realm term was fresh. People have always put eating first since ancient times. Who doesn''t prioritize food? Speaking of which, his precious little princess was also always craving food. Xiao Yunzhou felt likeughing as he listened. His precious little princess had the leisure tough at others, yet she herself was constantly craving milk tea at Concubine Liu''s ce. [Oh, they''re going to the Royal Pancake Shop next door.] Xiao Chuchu''s sharp eyes caught this. Xiao Yunzhou immediately carried his daughter and secretly got off the carriage, entering the pancake shop he had never been to before. He wouldn''t easily enter other shops to eat. But this Royal Pancake Shop was run by the pce chefs, and the waiters were off-duty royal guards looking to earn extra money. Apart from the Jing Country Bank, there was no safer shop than this pancake ce. Today, Xiao Yunzhou decided to give his little princess a surprise. Let her taste the soy milk and tofu pudding she had been thinking about for so long. But as soon as he stepped into the shop, Xiao Yunzhou was startled. There were nearly twice as many people in this shop as in the milk tea shop. Every table was full, and people were even standing in the empty spaces, making it almost impossible to squeeze in! "Another order of fried traitor!" "One fried traitor, please¡ª" "One tofu pudding, one soy milk, and ten fried traitors!" The Chu State beauties: "!" Even Xiao Yunzhou felt a chill down his neck. "All gone, all gone, today''s fried traitors are all sold out..." the shop assistant hurriedly called out when he saw new customers enter. "The tofu pudding is also sold out, all gone. There''s only one cup of soy milk left..." Xiao Yunzhou: "?" Xiao Chuchu: "!" The Chu State sister flowers: "!" Everyone who had just entered the shop wore looks of disbelief. "How can everything be sold out already? It''s still early, and you''ve only just opened!" An elderly man who had just arrived protested. In the time it took to queue up and buy a cup of milk tea next door, this breakfast shop had somehow managed to sell outpletely. Especially the "fried treacherous officials"... Wait, what?! Just hearing the name was intriguing. "Well, it''s a long story. These youtiao (fried dough sticks) originated from the past when a loyal official was harmed by a treacherous official and his wife. Themon people, unable to seek justice, could only vent their anger in secret. They would tie two human-shaped dough pieces together and fry them in oil, privately calling it by the name of the treacherous official." "That''s why it''s called ''fried ghost'' or ''fried treacherous official''!" "Also known as youtiao." "!!" "..." "I want an order..." "All gone, I''m afraid. Come early tomorrow." Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen, who hade specially to help out today, didn''t dare to look at the emperor''s face! Why didn''t the emperore earlier? Oh well! [Fried Qin Kuai, fried dough sticks, now bing fried treacherous officials ¨C how fitting.] Xiao Chuchu''s musings were interrupted mid-thought. [Oh my, the progress of the Chu State sisters is skyrocketing!] Chapter 171 You want to eat fried dough sticks, but can''t get them. You can onlye queue up the next day, but who''s really here just for fried dough sticks? What people are devouring is the frying of corrupt officials, the sizzling of dirty bureaucrats, the crackling of injustice throughout thend! Those who got to eat and those who didn''t all nned toe queue up early the next morning. "Why didn''t you prepare more?" "The milk tea shop next door is still open... why is breakfast sold out?" "This doesn''t make sense. Are you open for lunch?" "You''re in the capital city, why not set up outside the city? You prepared way too little!" "I''ming tomorrow, those of you who ate today better not fight me for it." "What do you mean? Who says we can''t eat again tomorrow if we ate today?" In an instant, the breakfast shop was on the verge of a brawl. In just this short time, seeing themotion inside the shop getting intense, Xiao Yunzhou quickly retreated outside, holding the Little Princess. If the Little Princess got hurt, he wouldn''t even know where to cry. "Your Majesty, this servant never expected the breakfast to be so popr. The prices aren''t low, so I thought not many would buy," pleaded Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen, who had hurriedly followed them out to exin to the emperor on the carriage. The emperor hade specially with the Little Princess to eat and show support, but there wasn''t even a ce for them to stand! They couldn''t even get a single coin''s worth of food! Manager Liao was so frightened he wanted to kowtow. "Your Majesty, shall we return to the pce? This servant will prepare the food for you there." Xiao Yunzhou was indeed displeased. He had originally wanted to give the Little Princess a surprise, letting her taste some tofu pudding, saying it wasmoner food. Who would have thought that the Imperial Kitchen staff, in their first attempt at running a business,cked experience and prepared too little stock. Now look what happened ¨C he was left craving... no, the Little Princess was left craving... Xiao Yunzhou looked down at Xiao Chuchu in her swaddling clothes, also looking disappointed at not getting to taste anything. He felt the Little Princess shared his feelings ¨C craving, no, slightly unhappy. His face showed a hint of dissatisfaction as he said, "We arrived just a bitte, and not even half a fried dough stick was left..." "Who would have thought, miss, we came just a littlete and everything was gone..." Halfway through his sentence, Xiao Yunzhou heard what seemed to be the maid of the Chu State beauties speaking by the roadside. He abruptly stopped talking, his ears reddening slightly. He, the supreme ruler, unable to get food, was actuallyining almost the same as a little girl. Ahem. Xiao Yunzhou immediately changed his tone, looking at Manager Liao in front of him, "If We wanted to eat, of course We could have it made in the pce." "But this shop now is meant for themon people to enjoy. You should be thinking of the citizens, not of Us." "How many disappointed citizens left empty-handed today, Liao Xing? Doesn''t your conscience hurt?" "Will you be able to sleep at night?" The Imperial Kitchen''s Manager Liao didn''t dare raise his head at all. Meanwhile, the Chu State sister beauties passing by the carriage immediately pricked up their ears. After hearing this, their eyes flickered with emotion. Was the Jing Country emperor so considerate of his people? [Hehe, the collection progress for the Chu State beauties has risen to 30%!] [Hey, their goodwill towards my imperial father has increased to 5%, what an unexpected delight.] Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts made Xiao Yunzhou ecstatic. He looked at Manager Liao in front of him and immediately reprimanded him more severely, "Don''t just think about Us, you must have the people in your heart. Otherwise, you''ll be just like those fried dough sticks ¨C the people will curse you while eating." Manager Liao''s face turned deathly pale. "I will definitely prepare more tomorrow, ensuring everyone whoes to eat can get something." Xiao Yunzhou was about to nod when his daughter''s inner voice stopped him. [How can one shop''s supply possibly meet the demand of the entire city''s poption?] Xiao Chuchu was clearly clearheaded. [The current situation isn''t bad actually, this is called hunger marketing.] [Limited supply means people can''t get it, which leads to word-of-mouth spreading. In the future, they''ll always have the impression that it''s a premium shop.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. [But the poprization of fried dough sticks, bing one of the well-known breakfast choices for the capital''s citizens, is inevitable. Hunger marketing won''t work for long.] [Fried dough sticks were originallymoner food, and ultimately they will return to themon people.] Xiao Yunzhou pricked up his ears, not daring to miss a single word. This was the wisdom of a celestial being from the heavenly realm! [Just like the milk tea shops,] Xiao Chuchu thought of A Little, HeyTea from her previous life, and the fried dough sticks reminded her of Yonghe King. [Fried dough stick shops will inevitably open everywhere. I think as the first breakfast shop opened by the court, rather than waiting to be eliminated, it''s better to proactively transfer the operating rights to themon people gradually.] Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. Huh? Transfer the operating rights? [Manager Liao from the Imperial Kitchen couldn''t even urately estimate the breakfast stock needed for the first day of business.] Xiao Chuchu, being carried around all day with nothing to do, liked to think about various things. At this moment, she was analyzing in her mind, [This proves that each profession has its specialization. Manager Liao is excellent at developing imperial cuisine and pursuing a premium route, but he really has no experience in managing civilian restaurants and shops.] Xiao Yunzhou drew in a sharp breath. Indeed, having the Imperial Kitchen responsible for opening shops was a bit rash. But entrusting the milk tea business to the Ministry of Revenue wouldn''t be appropriate either, as they don''t know how to control the taste of milk tea. The same goes for the breakfast shop. In the end, there was still a shortage of talented people in the court. Xiao Yunzhou pondered whether the spring imperial examination could recruit a bunch of talented individuals. But his daughter''s inner voice came through, [We could actually set up a franchise system for the shops.] Xiao Yunzhou: "??" Franchise? Like a martial arts alliance leader? [The first royal milk tea shop and imperial breakfast shop should be researched in terms of vors and established by the Imperial Kitchen as the gship store model.] [Then, set service, food, and decoration requirements.] [Widely recruitmon people with restaurant experience to join the franchise and open branch stores.] [The court collects a portion of the franchise fee as training fees for milk tea and fried dough sticks, and helps franchisees choose branch locations.] [To ensure the taste quality of the royal milk tea shops and imperial breakfast shops, all milk tea and breakfast ingredients for franchise branches must be sourced from court-specified channels.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes grew brighter as he listened. It made sense! The Imperial Kitchen and Ministry of Revenue had limited manpower after all. It would be difficult to open shops all over Jing Country, or even just five or six shops in the capital city. Franchising was good! Let those with money and experience, who want to build a career, voluntarily join in! [Franchise stores bear their own profits and losses. The greater one''s ability, the greater their harvest. The court doesn''t lose out either, earning annual franchise fees, brand management fees, training fees, as well as the price difference on every batch of raw materialsing in and out.] Xiao Chuchu recalled the franchise management of milk tea shops from her previous life. A Little milk tea seemed to operate this way. "Brilliant!" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but exim in admiration upon hearing this. This way, the imperial court wouldn''t have to expend effort on managing numerous shops, yet still receive a stable ie from them! At the same time, it gavemoners and merchants an opportunity to build wealth. As long as the main store continuously developed new products and maintained quality, the franchise stores could potentially make money! "This is excellent!" Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed. Manager Liao of the Imperial Kitchen before him was stunned. He had just been lecturing, so what was so wonderful about this? Xiao Yunzhou came back to his senses and coughed lightly, "Your inadequate preparation has inspired Us." "???" * The next day, the Chu State sisters once again queued up at the youtiao shop. This time, they finally managed to buy some. Not only did they get seats, but they also shared a table with others. Usually, given their privileged upbringing, they wouldn''t easily dine at the same table with strangers. But now, disguised as men and in Jing Country, they decided to follow local customs and take the opportunity to listen to the casual talks of Jing Country people. "Have you heard? Our imperial physician went there and said that the robust man from the grasnds couldn''t be moved, or he''d die!" "What?" "The imperial physician saw at a nce that there were arrow fragments in his chest. When asked, it turned out to be true!" "Then what to do?" "Naturally, they had to remove it! They cut open his chest on the spot..." The Chu State sisters, while waiting for their youtiao and douhua, listened to this idle chat from the steward at the next table. Hearing this, they couldn''t help but smile. This was simply like storytelling, impossible. Even legendary tales weren''t this far-fetched. Just as they were scoffing, a schr eating douhua at the next table also let out a hiss, "Opening up the chest? He''d most likely die." "I don''t believe the imperial physician would easily use a knife on a guest from the grasnds." "Hey, don''t be so skeptical! How do you think the milk tea shop next door came about? It was because the grasnds were grateful for this incident. Hearing that our emperor liked milk, they specially sent five hundred dairy cows. Then it was our emperor''s beloved daughter, the Little Princess, who yfully invented milk tea, and that''s how the shop was opened!" The Chu State sisters listened in bewilderment. But the most incredible part was yet toe. "My uncle''s aunt''s third son''s mother-inw is the sister-inw of the brother of that military camp''s cook. How could what she said be false?" The steward, waiting for his meal, joked, "There''s even a secret..." "They say the grasnd man was about to kick the bucket, his chest wide open." "It was our empress from the back pce, the Little Princess''s birth mother, Consort Liu, who stitched up the grasnd man." "As soon as she stitched him up, it was as if he had never been injured. He recovered immediately!" How could that be possible? It was a tall tale, even the Chu State''s imperial physicians couldn''t do that! The Chu State sisters almostughed out loud. Moreover, Consort Liu was a woman, how could she possibly stitch up a man''s body? Usually, even though their grandfather doted on them, he often said that when they came of age, they should get married. After marrying a man, a woman should stay at home and be a virtuous wife and good mother, not gallivanting about or studying. That''s why their grandfather agreed to let them go out to study before they were married. They were the daughters of the Prime Minister, and even they were treated thus. Let alone an empress in the back pce, the emperor''s woman? If they were to marry into the Chu royal family... pah, if they were to marry into the Chu State royal family, their grandfather would never allow them to go out! And to think of stitching up a man''s body? The Chu State sisters shook their heads, but a glimmer of envy shed in their eyes. Just as they were lost in thought, an excited shout came from outside the hall, "Oh my! This shop can be franchised? Anyone can do it? Is this for real?" The Chu State sisters were taken aback. Chapter 172 "Franchise? What does that mean?" "Is it like the imperial court opening shops that wemoners can join?" "The imperial court says they want to make money together with us." "!" Not just ordinary citizens, but even some traveling merchants and peddlers who came for breakfast were stunned. "Franchise," a schr in a brown cloth robe with a birthmark on his temple began to interpret the flyer in his hand. "For those who want to join, the imperial court will provide training on how to open a shop, how to make milk tea, fry dough sticks... They''ll even help choose store locations, arrange shop decoration, and train staff." "!" "!!" For a moment, everyone in the breakfast shop looked at each other in disbelief. Had they heard correctly? Was this manna falling from heaven? And it was a big piece of manna sent by the imperial court! "Is this for real? I''ve traveled far and wide, but I''ve never heard of such a thing!" "I''ve been learning to cook from my master for five years, serving him like a father, and he still often keeps secrets, refusing to teach me the special recipes! ... Now I can learn to make milk tea from the imperial court just by signing up? The imperial court will teach me?" The sound of people slurping soy milk and tofu pudding stopped as everyone looked to the schr with the birthmark for confirmation. This man was originally unremarkable, and they wouldn''t have dared approach him before, but now his words sounded so appealing, even better than a storyteller! "Can anyone learn? Are there any requirements?" Everyone eagerly questioned the birthmarked schr, surrounding him inyers. Only the Chu State sisters in the corner of the shop let out a light snort. "Miss," the maid Yuan lowered her voice, "it''s that unreasonable Zheng Qiru! The pedantic schr we made a bet with!" The Chu State sisters watched as he was surrounded by themoners in the shop and shook their heads lightly. "How naive." "Since ancient times, business has had its ups and downs. But the Jing Country''s imperial court has managed to shift all the business risks onto themon people." "Huh?" Maid Yuan didn''t understand. Ji Qiuyue, the elder sister, quickly coughed lightly and spoke up in a gruff voice, "May I ask, brother, does this red flyer mention whethermoners need to pay money to join the franchise?" Zheng Qiru was taken aback. He turned around and saw it was Ji Qiuyue, the person from Chu State who always liked to argue with Jing Country. His face immediately darkened. "Oh yeah, the imperial court teaches us how to make milk tea and dough sticks, and even helps us choose store locations. Do we have to pay money for this?" someone asked. "Ah, I knew there couldn''t be such a good thing in this world!" Half of the people who were excited earlier dispersed and returned to their tables to continue eating tofu pudding. Zheng Qiru pursed his lips. "Everyone, it''s quite normal to pay. Apprentices pay their masters to learn a trade, and students pay tuition to study in schools. How much more so for royal milk tea and dough stick shops?" "It says here that the Imperial Kitchen chefs will teach, and in the future, when the Imperial Kitchen invents new dishes, franchise owners will be the first to learn them." "At the same time, as long as your shop meets the quality standards, you can use the royal name." Severalmoners in the shop seemed to understand now. But Ji Chunyue chuckled, "I knew this would cost money. How desperate for money is the imperial court? Let me guess, with the royal name attached, this franchise fee must not be cheap. Is it over 500 taels of silver?" This price made everyone in the shop change their expressions. Five hundred taels to learn? The imperial court was robbing them! The milk tea next door only sold for five copper coins a cup! "Schr Zheng, does joining really cost so much?" someone couldn''t help but ask. "Come on, tell us everything." "Yes, tell us!" Zheng Qiru frowned, nced at Ji Chunyue, and then spoke, "The announcement says that for the first batch of franchises, the imperial court is offering a special discount." "For a milk tea shop franchise, it''s 200 taels for the first year. For a breakfast shop, it''s 500 taels. This includes training and know-how, but doesn''t cover shop rent or staff wages." "!" "?!" "Heavens, and that''s just for the first year? They''re robbing us!" Instantly, there was no one left around Zheng Qiru. The few restaurant apprentices and farmers who were interested earlier had all abandoned the idea of joining the franchise. Zheng Qiru frowned deeply, ring at the smiling Chu State gentleman who was covering his mouth. "Miss is so clever~ Hehe, you exposed the Jing Country imperial court''s money-making scheme in one go." Maid Yuan lowered her voice and gave her mistress a thumbs up. Just as the Ji sisters were about to smile smugly, the waiter came over with two trays. "Here you go, your salty tofu pudding, sweet soy milk, and dough sticks~" "And the pancake wrapped dough stick. It''s all here, enjoy your meal." The Ji sisters were about to speak but immediately closed their mouths. The Ji family rule: no talking while eating or sleeping. But today, to eat these dough sticks, they had gotten up very early, more than half an hour earlier than their usual breakfast time. They weren''t hungry at the moment, and years of habit left them with little appetite. "Yuan, you eat more," the elder Ji sister made a gesture, asking the waiter to move their dishes towards the maid. "Young... master, I''ll eat after you finish." "It''s alright, Yuan. You don''t need to be so polite with us," the Ji sisters had grown up with the maid since childhood and were as close as sisters. "You know we can''t eat much at this time¡ª" Just as the words "can''t eat much" came out, the waiter set down the trays. A bowl of trembling milky-white soy milk, and tofu pudding that bloomed like a white peony bud in the bowl. Next to it was a ck te with golden, shiny, soft long strips, which must be the dough sticks. There was also a stack of pancakes, dotted with emerald green scallions and golden egg liquid spread all over. Everything looked steaming hot. Somehow, even though these foods didn''t have a strong aroma, just looking at them made the Ji sisters'' mouths water uncontrobly. Especially the elder sister, Ji Xiayue, who first looked at the bowl of soft tofu pudding in front of her, adorned with light red shrimp skin, light brown soy sauce, tender yellow pickled vegetables, and bright green scallions. She couldn''t resist and picked up her spoon. Shepletely forgot what she had just said about not being able to eat much, and shoved a spoonful into her mouth. Instantly, it was scalding! Ji Xiayue held a breath of hot air in her mouth, hissing as her tongue burned with pain, but her eyes widened, unwilling to spit it out. The salty fragrance mixed with the soft, melt-in-your-mouth silky tofu slid down her throat deliciously the moment it entered her mouth, apanied by a hint of spiciness that dispelled the early spring chill and the drowsiness from waking up early! Beside her, maid Yuan thoughtfully used clean chopsticks to divide a whole dough stick into four easy-to-eat sections for them, wrapped them in a cloth, and handed them over. The aroma of the tofu pudding seemed to havepletely awakened Ji Xiayue''s appetite. She casually picked up a small piece of youtiao (Chinese fried dough stick) and took a bite. She had initially thought that such an oily delicacy was only favored bymoners andborers whocked oil in their diet. However, with just one bite, her eyes lit up. This youtiao had an unexpectedly fluffy texture! It was both soft and chewy. Biting into it felt like stepping on cotton, filling her mouth with a delightful aroma. The bustling noise of the shop seemed to fade away at that moment. Ji Xiayue alternated between bites of the fragrant youtiao and spoonfuls of the silky tofu pudding, cycling between softness and chewiness, finding herself unexpectedly delighted. "Five hundred taels is a bit expensive for the franchise fee..." "Well, forget it. We don''t have the money!" Five hundred taels wasn''t actually that much. While the poor couldn''t afford it, merchants and officials'' families certainly could. For instance, the New Year''s money she and her sister received far exceeded this amount. Ji Xiayue didn''t wait for her maid. She wiped her hands with a handkerchief and picked up a jianbing (Chinese pancake) wrapped around a youtiao from another te. As she took a gentle bite, her eyes immediately lit up. The soft egg wrap enveloped the chewy youtiao, followed by a spoonful of tofu pudding. Heavens. How could such a wonderfulbination exist? Why didn''t Chu State have this for breakfast? "Five hundred taels... Ah, even a single coin can be the death of a hero, let alone five hundred taels. Even if this old man wanted to join the franchise, I couldn''t afford it." "I have five hundred taels!" A crisp female voice suddenly rang out in the shop. When Ji Xiayue came to her senses, she realized everyone was staring at her. Including that pedantic schr, Zheng Qiru. Ji Xiayue instantly became aware of her outburst, covering her mouth as her face turned red with embarrassment. But she still gritted her teeth and said, "You, surnamed Zheng... where do I sign up for the franchise?" [Oh my, the famous beauties of Chu State want to franchise our Jing Country breakfast shop!?] Xiao Chuchu, who was nursing in the pce, suddenly broadcasted this thought. Xiao Yunzhou, who was reviewing official documents, and Liu Chaniang, who was practicing suturing pig skin, were instantly startled. Chapter 173 Early Morning Snack Shop. With just one sentence, Ji Chunyue revealed her true identity as a woman. Despite her flushed face, she didn''t run away. "Where can I find the franchise notice?" she asked. Her twin sister, Ji Qiuyue, was also surprised. But ncing at the table, where the youtiao (fried dough sticks) meant for three had been devoured by her sister alone, she began to understand. "Yuan, go buy two more servings of youtiao," Ji Qiuyue whispered. "We''ll take them to go." "So you''re actually youngdies," Zheng Qiru eximed, his face reddening in shock. "What''s wrong with being youngdies? Are we eating your rice or something?" Little Yuan rolled her eyes at him. "No, no, not at all," Zheng Qiru stammered, suddenly at a loss. Being unattractive and adhering to strict gender separation as a schr, he rarely spoke to young women, let alone scolding or making bets with them in public. Now feeling somewhat uneasy, he quickly handed the flyer to Ji Chunyue. "You can sign up at the magistrate''s office. Leave your address and wait for the assessment notice." "There''s an assessment too?" Ji Chunyue had been about to back out, but the mention of an exam piqued her interest. She and her sister had studied in Chu State and believed they were no less capable than men. If the imperial examinations weren''t restricted to men, the sisters were sure they could have earned official titles. So, at the mention of an exam, both Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue''s eyes lit up. After scanning the notice, the sisters exchanged nces, a hint of intrigue in their expressions. "Let''s go, we''re done here," they said. "Hey..." Zheng Qiru wanted to call after them for rification, but his face flushed, and he held back. "What does this mean? Are they going to join the franchise?" "I thought those handsome young men looked too pretty. Turns out they''re actually girls." "They must be wealthy if they''re ready to invest 500 taels to open a youtiao shop." "Can they make money? Won''t their family scold them for wasting silver?" The farmers and locals in the shop couldn''t help but discuss after the sisters left. As soon as they exited, the Ji sisters hurried away with their maid. "Yuan,e on, let''s go to the magistrate''s office to register." "What? Youngdies, are you serious?" Yuan held two youtiao in her hands, not having taken a single bite. She had nned to eat after her mistresses finished, but now the sisters were rushing off so quickly. It was as if the youtiao shop would bite them. "Yuan, you don''t understand. This is called seizing the initiative," Ji Qiuyue said with a smile, her eyes curved like a crescent moon. "The notice doesn''t specify that applicants must be men." In Chu State, women needed to be apanied by family members¡ªparents or husbands¡ªto open a shop, and unmarried women were excluded entirely. "But in Jing Country, they just opened this youtiao and milk tea shop yesterday, and today they''re already rushing out franchise regtions," the elder sister Ji Chunyue said with a clever smile. "It''s clear that this franchise policy hasn''t been thoroughly thought out. It''s not as airtight or strictly regted as usualws." "We need to exploit the loopholes." "For instance, opening a franchise as women." The Ji sisters exchanged smiles, their eyes shining like stars. Five hundred taels meant nothing to them. They had more than enough from the New Year''s money their grandfather gave them, with no real use for it. But what if they could own their own shop? Not as a dowry for marriage, not as property dependent on a man. But something they could manage themselves, where every penny earned would be their own. Just the thought made the Ji sisters'' hearts burn with excitement. "Let''s go, Yuan! While the lower officials in Jing Country are still figuring out how to assess qualifications for the franchise, let''s hurry! The first batch is always the most lenient!" [Wow, the Ji sisters are so clever.] Xiao Chuchuy in her exclusive "swimming pool" in Changchun Pce¡ªactually her bathtub¡ªwhile Zhang Jia massaged her little hands. She watched the broadcast of the sisters'' adventure and couldn''t help but apud their intelligence. [As the saying goes, be the first to eat crabs. They''re truly perceptive.] Xiao Chuchu blew away a soap bubble floating towards her. Liu Chaniang stood beside her, wiping her face with a handkerchief. As she wiped, she silently pricked up her ears, taking note of her daughter''s words about the importance of being a pioneer. [Hehe, they''ve seen through Jiang Li''s chaotic situation in the Ministry of Revenue.] Xiao Chuchu chuckled. [Yesterday, when Father Emperor carried me to the youtiao shop, we only got to taste air. It left my old man craving... He came back and told Jiang Li that they need people with restaurant experience to manage and open branches of this milk tea and breakfast shop.] [Father Emperor made Jiang Li find people to manage and open branches overnight.] [Jiang Li spent the whole night in the study without sleep, nearly going bald, beforeing up with this ''franchise'' method.] [But he was too hasty and didn''t think it throughpletely. Currently, the franchise applicant screening rules have big loopholes, just as the Chu State sisters suspected.] [Including the franchise fee, which might be too cheap.] As Xiao Chuchu thought about this, Liu Chaniang''s expression became strange as she looked towards the screen. Behind the screen stood Xiao Yunzhou. He had insisted oning in to wait for his daughter to finish bathing. In fact, he had been listening to the "sisters'' adventure" broadcast and couldn''t wait to hear what happened next. But now, as his daughter criticized the situation, Liu Chaniang clearly saw Xiao Yunzhou''s feet stiffen behind the screen, not daring to move. [Do the franchisees have business experience? Proof of assets? Any debts? Are they likely to operate honestly? Should they pay a deposit? How much deposit would be enough topensate customers for physical and psychological damages if the quality of the imperial milk tea shop ispromised?] [The Ministry of Revenue hasn''t considered any of this.] Xiao Chuchu rattled off in her mind. [It''s not entirely Uncle Jiang Li''s fault. He hasn''t studied the Consumer Protection Act or the Food Safety Law. He doesn''t know how important a food operator''s integrity is.] [He doesn''t know that food safety issues can lead topensation ims that could shut down a milk tea shop!] Liu Chaniang''s hand paused. [We can''t choose our first batch of franchisees carelessly.] Xiao Chuchu enjoyed her bath while her mind wandered freely. [We also need to establish a system for the Ministry of Revenue and local officials to conduct regr food safety inspections of the branches.] [Ah, the people in the Ministry of Revenue stillck training. They need to use their brains more.] "!" Behind the screen, Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. He realized he had been too careless. His Majesty, the supreme ruler, had acted rashly. Yesterday, upon hearing his daughter''s mention of joining the alliance, he hastily ordered the Ministry of Revenue to draft regtions. He hadn''t even thought it through himself. Ah! His daughter was right! As the supreme ruler, he needed to use his brain! No, where were the brains of the Ministry of Revenue!? Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, his face flushed with embarrassment. * The next day, the Ji sisters went again to the government office where they had registered to join the alliance, inquiring about when the qualification assessment would take ce. "Ji Qiuyue, Ji Chunyue?" "Yes, that''s us." "Hmm, you''ll need to wait two days," the office clerk nced at them. "ording to the imperial edict, the first round of assessments will be conducted jointly by the Minister of Revenue and the Imperial Kitchen." "Also, if..." the clerk looked at them again, "since you''re women, Consort Liu will also be present to interview you." The Ji sisters were momentarily stunned. Yuan, their maid, couldn''t help but step forward. "Why? Your public notice didn''t mention an extra interview for women." The office clerk rolled his eyes on the spot. "How am I supposed to know the intentions of those above?" "But currently, in our entire Jing Country, Consort Liu is the only woman in an official position." "If you don''t want to meet her, then sign here. I''ll have to report it to the higher-ups!" the clerk said impatiently. The Ji sisters, who had originally felt dejected about their idea of opening a shop as women and unable to exploit loopholes in the assessment, were now lost in thought. "What did you say!?" "Women in your Jing Country can also hold official positions?" Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue''s pretty faces were filled with shock. Chapter 174 In Jing Country, can women also hold official positions? The Ji sisters were at a loss for words to describe their astonishment at that moment. "Yes, wasn''t there an imperial edict posted about this?" The yamen clerk said impatiently, "As a special precedent, Concubine Liu has been appointed as Jing Country''s first female official." The Ji sisters and their maid were dumbfounded upon hearing this. So this was what Jing Country was like. In Chu State, women had never held official positions. The imperial harem was not supposed to interfere in politics! Even the Empress of Chu State couldn''t dream of influencing state affairs. "How much must the Emperor love her? Didn''t the ministers object?" Yuan, the maid, couldn''t help but blurt out. "How novel. Where did youe from, some backwater vige? This happened long before the New Year," the yamen clerk flipped through their franchise application and eximed, "Oh, so you''re merchants from Chu State." "Hey, counting you in, there were six groups of Chu State merchants who applied to join our Jing Country royal milk tea shop franchise yesterday!" The Ji sisters were shocked once again. Apart from them, other Chu people also wanted to learn the milk tea technique and open milk tea shops? The sisters exchanged nces, both seeing the amazement in each other''s eyes. As expected of their Chu State! There was a reason why Chu people were wealthier than Jing citizens. Chu State didn''t look down onmerce; agriculture, industry, and trade were all supported by the court, without contempt or arrogance towards merchants. That''s why many Chu merchants were excellent at business, with a keen sense for trade. Sure enough, many who came to Jing Country to purchase goods had sharp instincts and had set their sights on the unique milk tea and youtiao (fried dough stick) business of Jing Country. If they opened shops in Chu State, being the first to enter the market, they would surely make a profit. Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue, the two sisters, grew even more eager. "You Chu people should know, our Jing Country''s Concubine didn''t be a female official just because of the Emperor''s favor." The yamen clerk perked up when talking about this. "Concubine Liu leading the women to make winter clothes is already the smallest matter. Besides that, the Concubine also invented military..." Ji Chunyue''s ears perked up at the mention of military matters. But the yamen clerk, astutely, closed his mouth and chuckled, "The secrets of our Jing Country army, we won''t tell you Chu people." The yamen clerk was very cautious, keeping quiet at crucial points, leaving the Ji sisters and their maid burning with curiosity. On their way back to the inn, the three couldn''t help but discuss in low voices. "Why so secretive? Young Miss, it might be just like in the ys, borrowing the tiger''s might. That pce concubine might be whispering in the Jing Country Emperor''s ear, taking credit for others'' achievements." "Yuan, mind your words," Ji Chunyue pinched her, "Don''t discuss state affairs on the street." Especially on foreign soil? But in their hearts, the Ji sisters silently agreed with Yuan''s guess. Since ancient times, nothing has been valued more than schrship. Women in Jing Country couldn''t take the imperial examinations either, so that pce concubine had no academic credentials. This female official position must havee from pillow talk, what else? The Ji sisters felt a wave of sadness, suddenly feeling that even if they opened a shop, it wouldn''t mean much. "In this vast world, is there no ce where women can achieve great things?" "Sister, what''s the use of our studies? Just to be good wives and mothers?" Ji Qiuyue''s eyes were filled with frustration. They were sixteen this year, of marriageable age. That''s why they had secretlye to Jing Country to travel, knowing that such willful, free times would note again after marriage. "Ah, sister, we got excited for nothing. If only we didn''t have to marry. But s, even that female official in Jing Country is the Emperor''s woman, dependent on the Emperor for survival." Ji Qiuyue sighed softly, her eyes filled with indignation and sorrow. "I''m afraid that''s how it will be for us too." "At home, we rely on grandfather; after marriage, we''ll rely on our husbands. Why were we born as women?" Both were in low spirits, and even Yuan the maid couldn''t help feeling sad. If even young misses of such high status were like this, what about her? "Young Misses, don''t be sad. You''re still better off than me¡ª" As they were talking, they passed by a courtyard where there was a bustling noise at the gate. "Recruiting seamstresses and tailors! Must be quick, clean, and free of serious illnesses!" "Meals provided, fifty wen monthly wage, plus two wen per piecepleted." This call soon attracted many onlookers. "Oh, Aunt Pei, is Consort Liu''s Winter Clothing Workshop recruiting again?! Why didn''t you say so earlier? I''ll quickly call my daughter over!" In an instant, the middle-aged woman in clean cotton clothes at the courtyard gate was surrounded. "Auntie, do you think I''m suitable? I''m married but don''t have children yet." "Of course! As long as you can work, why not?" Aunt Pei waved her hand cheerfully, "The Concubine said, we were making winter clothes for refugees before, but now that spring hase, we still need to continue. We need to make more, so that this year and next year, more people won''t suffer from the cold!" "We need to recruit many more people!" The young woman who asked the question was clearly a bit timid, but very tempted by the sewing wage, "But... I don''t know if my husband will agree to me working outside." Aunt Pei immediately put her hands on her hips, "He dares not agree? Let hime, and when Concubine Liues out of the pce, we''ll ask him why he''s so short-sighted, not supporting his wife and daughter!" "You''re not just earning money bying here, you''re working for the Concubine, making clothes for our Jing Country soldiers! Making clothes for the suffering people of the world!" "Is he, a single man, so capable? What has he done? He dares to hinder us women from doing things for the world?" Aunt Pei was clearly skilled at scolding, and directly addressed the timid young woman, "Let hime, I''ll scold him, the Concubine will scold him!" "Our Emperor supports the Concubine, letting her leave the pce to do things anytime. What, is that man of yours more impressive than the Emperor?" Yuan the maid''s footsteps suddenly stopped with a creak. Her ears were perked up high! The Ji sisters were listening with their mouths agape. These Jing Country people might not be as wealthy as those from Chu. But were all Jing Country women this fierce? A woman from the imperial harem could leave the pce at will? "Those of you who are good at needlework and have free time at home are all wee toe," Aunt Pei at the courtyard gate put her hands on her hips and looked at the timid girls peeking outside, "You have the Concubine to embolden you, you have the clothes-less people of the world to embolden you, don''t be afraid!" "And the money you earn from sewing is yours. If any man in your family or any mother-inw dares to take it away, youe find me!" Aunt Pei patted her chest with a thump. Yuan the maid and the Ji sisters'' jaws dropped. A married woman follows her husband. In Chu State, many husbands'' families even seized their wives'' and concubines'' dowries, iming them as their own! Moreover, the money earned by women would likely belong to their husband''s family after marriage. There were many cases of cruel mothers-inw and husbands demanding money, and if the women refused, they were beaten. Even if they went to the magistrate''s office, unless someone died or was seriously injured, there were nows to protect them. But at this moment, Aunt Pei standing before them, as well as the other womening out of Consort Liu''s Winter Clothing Workshop, all looked confident and bold. "Whether you''re sewing clothes for the army or for refugees, the Consort will remember your contributions." "Our Consort is a female official!" "We have someone backing us," Aunt Pei pointed back at the courtyard and spoke passionately to the growing crowd of women, "Don''t be afraid, everyone." "Whoever disagrees with youing out to work, whoever tries to take your sewing money, our Consort will deal with them!" "That''s right," Min Rou also stepped forward, "We still need many more people for sewing. Whether you''re married or not, with or without children, you can all participate." "Here, we have aunties responsible for looking after children, and we''ve even hired a teacher who can tutor the kids." "Everyone can leave their children in the courtyard, freeing up their hands to make clothes." "!" "!!" The Ji sisters and their maid Yuan were stunned. Could it really be done this way? Who came up with this idea? [Oh my goodness, the Chu State Twin Beauties'' loyalty to Jing Country has risen to 49%!] Xiao Chuchu heard the system message and couldn''t help but be surprised. [Why is this system prompt so strange?] [Wow, the people of Chu State are willing to follow our Jing Country?] Chapter 175 ["Chu people following our Jing Country? That''s even more absurd than Duo Ti following my mother."] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but marvel. ["Who would have thought that when the sisters heard Aunt Pei say my mother woulde to scold men, their loyalty level would skyrocket, haha!"] Xiao Yunzhou coughed, almost spitting out his tea. His expression wasplex. The Chu people were quite easy to win over... no, the women of Chu State had rather fierce hearts. He couldn''t help but nce at Concubine Liu, who was practicing her suturing by the window. Ah, Concubine Liu was still the best. So gentle. "Chaniang, the Ministry of Revenue has sent word that several women wish to join the royal shops. Go and meet them on behalf of the ministry," Xiao Yunzhou said, putting down his tea bowl. Before she could agree, he pondered aloud, "I''ve been thinking these past few days, could you teach your skill of suturing patients to other women?" Liu Chaniang was startled, and Xiao Chuchu, watching the livestream from her swaddling clothes, shifted her attention back to her father. This time, Xiao Yunzhou didn''t wait for his daughter''s thoughts and mused, "I was thinking that most of you women are taught embroidery and needlework from a young age. Your skill with such delicate work far surpasses that of ordinary men and schrs, and you have a natural talent for it." "When I sent Liao Xing from the Imperial Kitchen to sell fried dough sticks, he nearly made a mess of things. This was a wake-up call for me," Xiao Yunzhou said, having learned from his daughter, "We should put people to their best use, each to their own profession." "I should let the right people do the right jobs." ["Oh, the Emperor Dad is using his brain today. No, I mean, well done!"] Xiao Chuchu praised her father as if praising a child. Xiao Yunzhou, hearing this, felt as if his heart was filled with honey. Of course, he listened to the immortal''s teachings daily, how could he not improve! Encouraged by this, Xiao Yunzhou became more confident in his ideas and turned to Liu Chaniang, "I think that when you go out of the pce this time, not only should you meet the women who want to open royal shops, but you should also meet the embroiderers who make winter clothes." "See if there are any women suitable to learn suturing from you. If there are, bring them out separately to learn from you," Xiao Yunzhou pondered, thinking this n feasible. "Of course, men can learn too, if they have the talent. This task of training in the art of suturing, Chaniang, I''ll leave it to you." Liu Chaniang''s eyes flickered. Ever since Min Rou was nearly assaulted but became a victim of public opinion, she had resolved to set an example for women, leading the way to show other women that they too could be independent. Now, it seemed that path was slowly unfolding before her eyes. Liu Chaniang stood up solemnly and considered, "I will not fail Your Majesty''smand." "But I wish to request a token from Your Majesty to act on my own authority." Liu Chaniang''s gaze was determined, "Since ancient times, there has been the Imperial Sword to execute treacherous ministers. Today, I wish to request an Imperial Whip from Your Majesty." Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback. "Not all men in the world are as open-minded and wise as Your Majesty, willing to let their wives and daughters pursue a career." Liu Chaniang''s ttery almost made Xiao Yunzhou unable to suppress his rising smile. This praise was quite novel to him! Since ancient times, people have praised emperors as enlightened rulers, but the great pressure they bear, the hardships of governance, and their dedication to the country ¨C how could ordinary peoplepare? But this praise of being a good husband, of being open-minded enough to let women pursue their ambitions, came so effortlessly that Xiao Yunzhou found it more and more appealing. Lying down, doing nothing, letting his wife and daughter do the work ¨C no, no, letting the right talents do the right jobs ¨C and he could be praised for it. Xiao Yunzhou felt that a door to a great path was slowly opening before him! "I grant your request. Whatever whip or sword you need, just have Wei Zheng get it for you," Xiao Yunzhou said, in high spirits, agreeing readily. "You''re doing this on my behalf, so corrupt officials and¡ª" Before he could finish, Liu Chaniang curtseyed in thanks, "Thank you, Your Majesty. In the future, I will discipline those ipetent men on your behalf." "Hm?" The smile on Xiao Yunzhou''s face froze instantly. "Whichever man is stubborn and ignorant, blocking his wife and daughters from pursuing the great path, I shall whip him." "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched violently, and he even felt a chill run down his spine. It was as if he could hear the whistle of the whip and feel the stinging pain. Xiao Yunzhou regretted it immensely, only now realizing what he had just agreed to. "Well, Concubine Liu..." An emperor''s word isw, but Xiao Yunzhou also feared being drowned in the spit of men across thend. It''s worth noting that those who write history books are all men! He, as an emperor, giving his concubine a whip tosh all the men in the world. How would others view him as an emperor? How would future generations sum up his merits and faults? Moreover, suturing patients indeed required breaking the rules separating men and women. Not everyone was like him, an emperor with an immortal little princess by his side to guide him! "Ahem, Concubine Liu, don''t be too rash. We should also listen to the voices of the men behind these women. If they object to their women leaving the house to treat and suture men, it''s understandable..." Xiao Yunzhou thick-skinedly tried to retract his words. But halfway through, he was interrupted by the sound of Xiao Chuchu''s inner fireworks. ["Ah, wonderful! My mother has received the Imperial Whip, and the social status of women in our Jing Country has risen by 14%!"] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice abruptly cut off Xiao Yunzhou''s regret. ["I''ve earned another chance to draw lots."] "!" Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. The social status of women has improved? This could also bring lottery opportunities to his little immortal princess? Could it enhance the princess''s immortal power? ["In modern society, women and men are the same. They can go to school together, take exams, pursue higher education, receive schrships, and seek employment."] ["Any profession can be pursued by girls or boys. It''s the same for doctors and clothing designers."] Xiao Chuchu imagined the future in her heart. ["I wonder when Jing Country will be like this."] What? Is this how things are done in the immortal realm? Xiao Yunzhou was shocked. Even the imperial examinations don''t distinguish between men and women? They recruit anyone who is talented? Xiao Yunzhou''s back broke out in a cold sweat as he realized that Concubine Liu''s praise for him earlier was far from urate. How was he open-minded? How was he wise? How had he truly let the women in his household go out and do anything? Compared to the immortal realm described by his little princess, he, the Son of Heaven, was still short-sighted and stubborn... Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou gritted his teeth, "Chaniang, I give you the Imperial Whip tosh those stubborn men." "However¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, silently mourning for all men in the world, "You must promise me that you will first reason with them properly. For example, exin to them that when performing suturing procedures, most of the patient''s body is covered, and there isn''t much physical contact. Also, emphasize the life-saving benefits of suturing skills." Liu Chaniang nodded, "Your Majesty can rest assured. I understand¡ªdiplomacy first, force as ast resort." "..." Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, "Then go choose some whips... the kind that won''t cause fatalities." Liu Chaniang quickly lowered her head to hide her smile. Xiao Chuchu was thoroughly amused. But when she looked at the live stream from the Sewing Cottage, her inner thoughts immediately began to chatter. [Oh no! The timid woman who said she wanted to apply for a job as a seamstress¡ªher husband hase looking for her, saying he''s not afraid of the Imperial Consort!] [He ims that even if the Emperor or the Jade Emperor himself were toe, he would be the one to collect his wife''s sewing wages from the Sewing Cottage!] [Oh dear, he even shoved Aunt Pei¡ª] [Now he''s trying to beat his wife at the entrance!] Liu Chaniang immediately stood up. "Your Majesty, I shall go with Wei Zheng to select those whips now!" Chapter 176 "My wife listens to me! She''s a person of the Chen Family in life and will be a ghost of the Chen Family in death. Of course, all the money she earns belongs to my Chen Family!" A tall, muscr man with dark skin, still holding a cksmith''s hammer in his hand, his arm as thick as a bowl, pulled his young wife who dared not make a sound and trembled in fear. He red at Aunt Pei. "So what if she''s a concubine from the pce? Even if the honorable magistrate came, he couldn''t interfere in our private family matters!" "Husband, I''ll give you the wages when I get them, please don''t be angry. Let''s go home," the timid wife pleaded, on the verge of tears. At the entrance of the sewing courtyard, there were already many women - wives, mothers-inw, and young girls - who wanted to sign up, as well as men watching themotion. She was being dragged and scolded by her husband, unable to lift her head, just wanting to escape. "You''ll give it to meter?" The cksmith clenched his fist. "You wench, you''ve got the idea of hiding money for yourself. Who knows if you''ll secretly stash some away, and how much!" "I''m the only one who can collect the money when it''s paid!" The man red at Aunt Pei, threatening with his fist. Aunt Pei was so angry she was panting. "Chen Dazhu, you''re really something, coveting even a woman''s hard-earned money..." "Ask my wife," Chen Dazhu red, dragging his timid wife in front of him. "Does she dare? Isn''t she afraid I''ll beat her?" As he spoke, his fist turned into an open palm, about to p the woman''s face. The Ji sisters watched, almost trembling. Is this what married life is like for women? Parents'' orders, matchmakers'' words. When a woman is told to marry, she has no choice but to obey. But after marriage, who will guarantee their married life? If they are beaten and scolded at will, with no autonomy, losing both their person and property, will their parents and brotherse to their rescue? Where is the responsibility of the matchmaker''s words? The Ji sisters felt anxious and uneasy. "What? Jing Country is like this too! I thought it would be different..." Yuan, the maid, turned pale. "Chen Dazhu, if you dare hit her, I''ll report you to the authorities right now!" Aunt Pei and two other sewing aunts rushed forward. "Go ahead, report me!" Chen Dazhu was fearless, clearly not the first time he had raised his hand against the women in his family. "Oh, isn''t that Constable Xu drinking tea over there? Constable Xu, are you going to arrest me? I''m disciplining my own wife,e and arrest me! Whichw have I broken?" At the neighboring teahouse, an officer with arge sword at his waist, who was about to sit down, heard this and looked embarrassed. "Chen Dazhu, take your family matters home. If you cause trouble on the street and it gets out of hand, don''t me me for being impolite!" "Alright, I''ll listen to you, Constable. I''ll go home right now to teach this disobedient wife of mine a lesson!" With that, Chen Dazhu dragged away his now crying wife. Aunt Pei and the surrounding women were so angry their chests were heaving. The Ji sisters closed their eyes, unable to bear the sight. "Miss, it seems the world is equally dark everywhere!" Yuan was indignant. But just as she said this, the burly cksmith dragged his wife past them. Ji Chunyue''s face darkened, and she gritted her teeth as she stepped forward, "Stop!" "Where did this pretty boye from? Get out of the way!" The cksmith''s hand swung towards Ji Chunyue. "Miss¡ª" "Sister!" Ji Qiuyue and Yuan were terrified and about to cry. Ji Chunyue, watching the hand as big as a fan about tond on her, closed her eyes in fear. It''s over. But as she braced herself for the intense pain and the miserable fall to the ground, she heard the rapid sound of approaching hooves! Ji Chunyue couldn''t help but open her eyes. In that instant, she saw a gold-threaded soft whip, like a magical weapon from the heavens, glinting golden, crack against the tower-like body of the burly man. "Ouch!" The man cried out in pain. Ji Chunyue turned to look, holding her breath. She saw a in carriage stop, and the whip-wielding guard jumped down, bowing respectfully. His hands presented the gold-threaded soft whip that had just struck the burly man. "Your Highness, the Golden Dragon Whip is here." Soon, to Ji Chunyue''s astonishment, the seemingly in curtain of the carriage was lifted, and a woman in elegant pce attire gracefully stepped down. "Concubine Liu! Her Highness is here!" Aunt Pei and a group of needleworking women instantly rejoiced. So this is Concubine Liu? Ji Chunyue''s eyes widened. "Ouch! Who hit me? Can pce women just whipmoners at will? Is there no justice? Now?" The cksmith, Chen Dazhu, wailed dramatically, "Even the constable won''t arrest me, saying I''vemitted no crime. But a pce concubine hits me? I want to appeal to the Emperor for justice!" Hearing this, Ji Chunyue''s eyes immediately dimmed. This vulgar man was right. In Chu State, even her grandfather could at most lecture a husband who beat his wife, but could never seriously punish him. Since ancient times, upright officials don''t meddle in family affairs. The Emperor is a man, and so are the officials. Men helping men! There are nows that would imprison a man for beating his wife. Ji Chunyue, having narrowly escaped danger, felt utterly disheartened. But just as she was feeling low, she saw Jing Country''s Concubine Liu, beautiful in appearance and extraordinary in bearing, look towards Chen Dazhu. The next moment, she extended her hand to the maid beside her. The maid in attendance immediately raised her head and took out a yellow silk imperial edict from her sleeve! "By the grace of Heaven, the Emperor decrees¡ª" Her clear yet resounding voice startled the Ji sisters. Since ancient times, it had always been eunuchs or officials who read imperial edicts. There had never been a pce maid reading an emperor''s edict! How could Jing Country have a pce maid reading an imperial edict? They looked over in shock to see the maid standing tall, her voice strong and forceful. "Last winter, the refugees of Jing Country were fortunate to have winter clothes made by women. This New Year, we are again fortunate to have women sewing fur-lined garments for the border troops, keeping them warm and boosting their morale. The contributions of women are outstanding and far-reaching, and cannot be ignored." "Three days ago, Concubine Liu practiced the art of suturing, saving the lives of fierce generals from our Jing Country and Wu Yun Country, earning a gift of five hundred cattle and sheep from the Khan of Wu Yun Country." The Ji sisters listened, entranced, as did the other women on the street. So the rumors were true. What exactly was this art of suturing? But the maid reading the edict didn''t exin, continuing to recite, "I now know that women are no less capable than men, only their strengths differ! Therefore, I appoint Concubine Liu as a seventh-rank female official, specially recruiting those skilled in embroidery and needlework to sew winter clothes, make fur-lined garments, and learn the art of suturing and healing, to serve the realm!" "All who join will be contributing to the welfare of themon people and soldiers, serving the nation!" "I respect them, and so should all under heaven!" "Thus, I bestow upon Concubine Liu the Golden Dragon Whip, to protect the women of the realm who busy themselves with great public works, and to discipline their violent husbands, brutes, and savages, and all who obstruct the great public works of the realm!" "Your Ladyship." The pce maid Qiu Li finished reciting, tears glistening in her eyes. She raised her head proudly, tucked away the imperial edict, and red at the wailing brute. "This whip is for beating savages!" "Even if you scream your throat raw, no one wille to save you!" Well said! Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue listened, their bodies trembling with excitement. At this moment, the entire street was eerily silent, as if it were a deserted ce in the dead of night. But the sunlight poured over the women, warm andforting, as if dispersing the mist and darkness, illuminating their vast path ahead. The timid wife beaten by her husband, the fearful women watching from the roadside, the Ji sisters who dreaded marriage... even Aunt Pei, who had been pushed and hurt at the door of the sewing courtyard, all held their breath, not daring to make a sound. Because they were afraid of missing a single word! How could it sound so good? The words in the imperial edict, the words spoken by the pce maid, how could they be so pleasing to the ear? They had never heard anything like it before. "How many times did you hit her?" Liu Chaniang pursed her lips and walked up to the burly man. "Today, I''ll whip you just as many times!" The man stepped back, hardly able to believe his ears. "You''re right, there''s now to govern you. So today, I''ll whip you as many times as I want! Because there''s now to catch me either!" Liu Chaniang met his gaze without backing down, clearly adopting a ''fight fire with fire'' stance. "I''ll leave you with just enough life, but not crippled. That should do!" "!!" [Oh my, the allegiance of the Chu State sisters to our great Jing Country has risen to 59% amidst the man''s miserable cries...] [Ah, it''s still rising!] Xiao Yunzhou, holding his daughter, stood up, then sat down again. His hand trembled slightly, but he dared not make a sound. Ahem, Concubine Liu... hit him... well. Chapter 177 [Violence against violence! My mother is amazing!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t contain her excitement. [This is exactly what we need! These men dare to beat their wives because women have low social status and the legal system is inadequate. They know the authorities won''t imprison or punish wife-beaters through legal means!] [They''re just bullies who prey on the weak and fear the strong. It''s deliberate! Well, if that''s the case, we women should stand up for ourselves and use an even stronger fist to show these men what''s what!] In her swaddling clothes, Xiao Chuchu''s little face was flushed pink as she clenched her tiny fists. She would always stand on the side of girls! She didn''t care about turning the other cheek or repaying evil with kindness. The point was to hit back and make those wife-beaters cry! [Severely punish wife-beaters! Beat them up!] [If heaven won''t deliver justice, my mother will!] [If the authorities won''t handle it, my mother will!] Xiao Chuchu was frustrated that her arms were too short. [If only I were grown up, I''d ask my father for a long whip too. Whenever I saw injustice, I''dsh out at those bastards!] [Got a problem? Go cry to my father!] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched, but he felt a hint of sweetness in his heart. Look at that, the reincarnated celestial princess already knew to turn to him, her imperial father, when there was trouble. Well, well, the celestial beats people up, and her imperial father takes the fall. The celestial was so thoughtful... ahem. Xiao Yunzhou felt a mix of pain and joy. The little celestial princess truly saw him as family. Just as he was thinking this, Wei Zheng burst into the imperial study, nearly tumbling over himself. "Your Majesty, the Minister of Justice has arrived. He says Concubine Liu publicly whipped a man bloody, causing amotion on an entire street." "Now, that man has crawled to the government office, demanding to sue Concubine Liu and asking for medicalpensation!" "He wants to hire awyer and take his grievance to the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Punishments." In just this short time, the situation had escted. Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice, wasn''t allowed into the imperial study by the guards. He stood outside and spoke in a deep voice. "I request Your Majesty to revoke that golden dragon whip." "Even if a prince beats amoner without reason, they are subject to the same punishment as ordinary people. How much more so for Concubine Liu?" "If there''s a grievance, the concubine can apany that wife to file aint against her husband at the government office." "The concubine cannot take thew into her own hands." "Your Majesty, you shouldn''t have given Concubine Liu such authority. It''s against the rules." Since ancient times, the country has had itsws, and families have had their rules. "The concubine is neither a city governor nor the magistrate of the capital. She has no right to pass judgment, let alone punish people on her own." Zhang Wei had never feared the emperor. Thest time, when the Earth and Moon Sect incident wasn''t exposed, he dared to confront the emperor. This time, he was even bolder, voicing his objections loudly outside the imperial study. Xiao Yunzhou, holding his daughter, froze. He had known that giving Concubine Liu this whip would cause trouble. This whip, which could be used to beat any man in the empire, had stirred up a ho''s nest in the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Punishments. It had also riled up the men of the country. Eh. Xiao Yunzhou''s face was awkward. He felt somewhat in the wrong, after all, he had only agreed to give Concubine Liu the whip because he was carried away by ttery. Indeed, he didn''t know how to exin this to his ministers now. But as Xiao Yunzhou was struggling, he heard the indignant, tender thoughts of the little princess in his arms. [Why isn''t it allowed?] Xiao Chuchu felt her reasoning was wless. [When they beat their own wives, it''s all about who has the stronger fist, with no regard for thew! Now that the tables have turned, and their fists aren''t as strong as my mother''s guards, they start crying foul and begging for thew''s protection?] [Bah! The men of Jing Country, what a bunch of hypocrites!] [Grandpa Zhang Wei, I''m disappointed in you!] Xiao Chuchu grumbled in her heart. [Now you remember to follow thew! Where was thew when women were being beaten by those scumbags before?] [Men of Jing Country, a bunch of trash!] Xiao Chuchu bared her gums in a snarl, her tirade making Xiao Yunzhou''s scalp tingle and his face flush red. Trash men... Had his celestial daughter included him in that insult too? "Your Majesty¡ª" The Minister of Justice, Zhang Wei, was still shouting outside. Xiao Yunzhou''s temple throbbed as he aimed a phantom kick at Wei Zheng, "Let him in! Why is he shouting out there? Tell him toe in!" Let this old Zhange in and be scolded by the little princess! This old man was having a grand time shouting outside the imperial study. Leaving him, the Son of Heaven, to bear the brunt of the celestial princess''s anger, being called trash by her! Xiao Yunzhou''s head was pounding, his face hot and burning. Zhang Wei indeed strode in quickly, ring at the emperor, "I request Your Majesty to revoke the golden dragon whip, and ask the concubine to apologize to that husband, send for a doctor to treat him, and cover the cost of his medicine." Pft¡ª Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes nearly popped out. Old Zhang Wei sure had guts to speak like that! He nervously looked down, and sure enough, he was met with a mental "ptooey" from the little princess! [I spit on that!] Xiao Yunzhou''s face twitched. [How old-fashioned! I think my mother''s whip should give this old Zhang Wei a taste too!] Xiao Chuchu rolled her eyes at Zhang Wei. Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, unable to imagine that scene. It would surely be a sight to behold. He wanted tough but couldn''t. He furrowed his brow instead, because he was truly in a dilemma now. On one side were the men of the empire and thew. On the other side were his daughter, Concubine Liu, and the women of the empire. Since ancient times, women had been barred from the imperial examinations. It was taken for granted that a woman''s duty was to support her husband and educate her children. Even though he was the emperor and had heard the celestial''s words, agreeing with the little princess and wanting to learn about this ''gender equality'' from the celestial realm, Xiao Yunzhou knew that such change couldn''t happen overnight. It wasn''t something even he, the Son of Heaven, could forcibly implement today. It had to be a gradual process. Xiao Yunzhou cast an apologetic nce at the little princess in her swaddling clothes. Then he red at the old-fashioned Minister of Justice, Zhang Wei, standing before him. "Apologizing and sending for a doctor is out of the question, Zhang Wei. This matter need not be discussed further. This time, it was done with my approval." "As for how Concubine Liu uses the golden dragon whip in the future..." Xiao Yunzhou pondered as he spoke, preparing to find a middle ground, "That can be reconsidered." "Reconsidered?" The Minister of Justice, Zhang Wei, softened his expression slightly but still pressed his advantage, "This old minister suggests that in the future, cases should be reviewed by the government office. Only after guilt is determined should Concubine Liu be allowed to use the whip." [Hah, no shame at all.] Xiao Chuchu''s scornful thoughts interrupted him. [Let me ask you this: in Jing Country, how are husbands who beat their wives and daughters punished?] [These hypocritical men have the audacity to talk about thew. It''sughable! Hahaha...] Ahem. Xiao Yunzhou looked down to see his daughter grinning, indeed with only a few teeth showing. He couldn''t help but re at old Zhang Wei once again. With newfound confidence and anger, he said, "Your Ministry of Justice keeps talking about following thew. Well then, let me ask you this: How is a husband beating his wife currently punished?" Zhang Wei was taken aback. He didn''t answer, but Xiao Chuchu''s scornful inner thoughts had already reached Xiao Yunzhou''s ears. [I spent fifty points to look through the capital''s court records.] [Oh, how Iughed at what I saw!] [¡ª''Wife unruly, beat to discipline.'' The court believes that men only raise their hands because their wives and concubines are disobedient. If a husband seriously injures his wife, his punishment is to have his beard cut off.] [As long as no weapons are used to beat wives or concubines, it''s not even considered a crime.] [Hahahaha! I''mughing so hard I''m shaking...] [On the flip side, if a wife or concubine beats her husband, she''ll be imprisoned for a year or given a hundredshes.] [How ironic~] [Some Ministry of Justice this is, some Ministry of Punishment, some court ofw! Is this what Zhang means by ''letting the court decide the punishment''? Cutting off a man''s beard counts as punishment???] Xiao Yunzhou felt a chill run down his spine, and as he listened to the little princess''s mocking inner monologue, he gradually became furious with embarrassment. Although he was the emperor, one fist couldn''t fight four hands, and one man couldn''t stand against ten. Thews of Jing Country, military strategies, agricultural taxes,mercialws, countless government affairs, thousands of regtions, tens of thousands of officials... he couldn''t thoroughly consider each and every one. Regarding this matter of domestic violence, Xiao Yunzhou had seen almost nothing of it in the imperial pce. The former emperor had been very gentle with the empress dowager, and he himself had been focused on seeking enlightenment, disliking matters between men and women, but he never thought he had a habit of beating or abusing women. But he didn''t know that outside, there were so many men who took out their anger on women. It was also the first time he learned that the court''s punishment for husbands beating their wives and concubines was so light! "Zhang Wei, I''m asking you a question!" Xiao Yunzhou mmed the table. "ording to thew, how have men who beat their wives and daughters been sentenced in the past? Do you know?!" Zhang Wei''s mouth twitched, and he coughed lightly, "Husbands rarely beat their wives and concubines. They''re family, how could that happen?" "If it does happen, ording to the previous dynasty''sws... we investigate the cause, and if the wife or concubine is at fault, the husband is dealt with leniently." "The court... verbally reprimands the husband..." "The wife or concubine writes a promise not to make mistakes again, and the husband also promises not to raise his hand again..." [Ah, so this is the Jing Country I was born into.] Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue inwardly. [So if I''m beaten to death in the future, will anyone even care?] "Smash!" Upon hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou thought of his precious being beaten and scolded, then having to apologize to the abuser at court, and possibly continuing to be beaten at home. He immediately flew into a rage and threw his teacup straight at Zhang Wei''s head! "Zhang Wei, don''t you find what you''re sayingughable and shameful?!" "Don''t you have a daughter? Weren''t you born and raised by your mother?!" For the first time, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but swear in the imperial study! * Chen Dazhu was at the entrance of the court, covered in blood, throwing a tantrum, "There''s no justice! They''re bullying me with their power!" His clothes were torn to shreds, with visible bloody welts on his back. But his voice was still strong as he crawled on the ground, wailing! "My wife has joined forces with the emperor and empress to beat me, her husband!" "ording to thew, I demand medical expenses,pensation, and for this wife to be imprisoned!" "I want the pce concubines and the emperor to pay me ten thousand taels!" Chapter 178 "Every schr''s wife knows to respect her husband as if he were heaven. But in our family, it''s all upside down!" "The pce concubines are rebelling! Do they even dare to beat the emperor?" "Where''s thew? Your Honor, you must give me justice!" Chen Dazhu refused to leave or let the yamen officials call for a doctor. He insisted on staying at the yamen''s entrance, covered in wounds, causing a scene. More and moremon folk and schrs gathered around. "ording to thew, if a wife beats her husband, she should be imprisoned for a year." "But it wasn''t his wife who beat him. The emperor ordered Consort Liu to do it." People debated, some reasonable, others disapproving of a woman beating a man. "Chen Dazhu is right to make a fuss. The pce consort is in the wrong. Whatw did Chen Dazhu break? He just beat his own wife and asked for her sewing money!" "When a woman marries into a man''s family, she bes his property!" Even some older women were saying this. The Ji sisters felt chilled to the bone. Women themselves were speaking up for men. But there were many such older women, especially those with sons. "If my daughter-inw were this fierce, not giving money to my son and having him beaten, I''d divorce her immediately! What sin did wemit to bring such bad luck into the family?" Chen Dazhu''s wife, even standing next to Liu Chaniang, turned pale and seemed about to faint. The pce maid Qiu Li immediately put her hands on her hips and retorted, "Old woman, why don''t you ask why mydy beat him?" "Chen Dazhu beat his wife. We all just saw it. Mydy didn''t hit him even once more than necessary. All his wounds are from his own evil deeds!" Qiu Li was quick to speak up. "Isn''t it normal to beat your wife?" "Who hasn''t done it a few times? I don''t believe it." "Thosezy wives need to be taught a lesson... they won''t work unless you beat them." A group of men immediately chimed in with their muttering. They didn''t dare confront Consort Liu directly, but they were brave enough to speak up for Chen Dazhu from the corners and hidden in the crowd. Liu Chaniang closed her eyes. Only now did she understand why her daughter often said that progress in improving women''s status was so slow. For the women of Jing Country to stand up, there were still many obstacles ahead. However, she wasn''t afraid! No matter how difficult this path was, she would continue to walk it! A little progress today, a little more tomorrow, and one day they would achieve their goal! With this thought, Liu Chaniang pressed her lips together and looked at Magistrate Li of the capital. "Not only did I beat him today, but I will beat him again tomorrow." Chen Dazhu''s eyes bulged. Liu Chaniang stood her ground. "If he beats women again in the future and you don''t imprison him or punish him for public assault, I will continue to whip him, carrying out justice on behalf of heaven." "Bravo!" "Well said, My Lady!" A group of seamstresses cheered enthusiastically, and Chen Dazhu''s wife''s eyes turned red with emotion. The Ji sisters held hands, but as they looked at Consort Liu, their gazes were filled with admiration and worry. If this matter escted, even the Emperor of Jing Country might not be able to protect Consort Liu. Moreover, this was Jing Country, and even their grandfather couldn''t intervene. The Ji sisters couldn''t bear the thought of such a gooddy being punished in the future. They were anxious for her. "My Lady, you''re putting me in a difficult position. ording to thews of the previous dynasty, there were few cases where husbands were punished for beating their wives," Magistrate Li lowered his voice, looking embarrassed and troubled. Liu Chaniang snorted. Nearby, a schr spoke up clearly, "Magistrate, this student believes the Lady is not wrong. She has merely uncovered a w in our country''sws." "Why should men and women not be equally punished for breaking thew? Why is a woman severely punished for beating her husband, while a man is lightly punished for beating his wife?" The schr''s voice rang out, "This student believes this is not right and that thew should be amended." "Hey, where did this foole from?" "It''sughable... he''s studied himself stupid! Does he think he knows better than the honorable judge?" "If you don''t understand, don''t talk nonsense. Thew states that if a wife is unruly, she should be beaten to discipline her." Not onlymoners but also schrs stood up to argue. "This means that if a wife is fierce and disobedient, the husband beating her is to educate her, to make her better! You''re not married, so stop talking rubbish!" Immediately, the student who suggested thew was wed was heavily criticized and surrounded by scolding voices, bing a pariah among the men. Ji Qiuyue looked over, her eyes shing, and tugged at her sister''s sleeve. "Sister, isn''t that the fool we made a bet about?" Ji Chunyue looked and was stunned. The one speaking up for the injustice against women was indeed that fool with the birthmark on his forehead, Zheng Qiru. "I didn''t expect it, Miss. He''s not so bad after all," even the maid Yuan couldn''t help but remark. "Magistrate, please consider what this student has said," Zheng Qiru bowed respectfully. Before Magistrate Li could speak, people nearby were already spitting at Zheng Qiru. "Go away, go back to your books!" "The imperial exams areing up, why are you causing trouble?" "What kind of person is he? No wonder he can''t find a wife!" "He must have a grudge against someone!" The Ji sisters'' chests heaved as they listened, and seeing Zheng Qiru''s face turn red from the insults, they felt angry and sad for him. Liu Chaniang also noticed this schr and was about to speak when a fast horse approached from afar. The officer on the horse dismounted and quickly walked to the Magistrate''s side. "Is there news from the Ministry of Justice?" Magistrate Li''s face lit up when he saw him. Fearing the situation would escte and involve the Emperor and the Lady, making it difficult to resolve, he had sent someone to urgently find the Minister of Justice earlier. Now that the messenger had returned, Magistrate Li felt he was finally saved. "Did the Minister of Justice say how to handle this?" The officer nodded quickly, but his expression was peculiar as he whispered in Magistrate Li''s ear. "What''s the verdict? Magistrate, you must do justice for thismoner!" Chen Dazhuy on the ground, covered in wounds, moaning and groaning. But as soon as he finished speaking, he saw Magistrate Li''s face change dramatically after hearing the messenger''s words. Chen Dazhu sensed trouble and his eyes darted around. He immediately threatened, "Magistrate, if you can''t make a decision, thismoner will go cry at the gates of the Ministry of Justice tomorrow¡ª" "Silence!" Magistrate Li''s expression turned ck as he shouted angrily at him. "Guards, immediately imprison this wife-beater Chen Dazhu!" "!" "???" "What?" "Huh? I''m the one who was beaten, yet I''m being imprisoned? Magistrate, haven''t you got it wrong?" Chen Dazhu could hardly believe his ears. Magistrate Li''s expression became even more grim. He quickly turned his gaze to the onlookers outside the yamen. "The Emperor has heard of this matter." "He is greatly shocked. In the pce, he never knew of the violent habit of men beating their wives in themon world." "Your Majesty, Zhang Wei, the Minister of Justice who spoke on behalf of Chen Dazhu, has been severely punished. He''s been dismissed from his position pending investigation and fined twelve months'' sry." With these words from the magistrate, the men and old women causing trouble on the street suddenly fell silent, as if their throats had been gripped. Even Chen Dazhu himself was stunned into silence. "What? Someone''s being investigated for speaking up for Chen Dazhu?" The magistrate''s face remained somber as he turned to Chen Dazhu. "Because of you, the Emperor has learned about the precedent of leniency or even acquittal in cases of husbands beating their wives." "He has harshly criticized the Ministry of Justice and the criminal justice system for their unfairness!" "He has ordered the Ministry of Justice, the criminal courts, and all local magistrates to review past cases immediately and re-examine every instance of wife-beating." "And to draft new regtions, temporarily sentencing these cases the same as when a woman beats her husband." "!" "...!" The magistrate looked at the crowd. "Everyone, the Emperor is deeply pained, but thanks to Imperial Consort Liu discovering Chen Dazhu''s misdeeds, he was able to correct this error in time. He will now ensure justice for all oppressed women in the country and rectify thews of Jing Country." After speaking, the magistrate gave a signal to his subordinates. Chen Dazhu was immediately thrown to the ground, instantly surrounded by other men. "Damn you, Chen Dazhu, you idiot!" "Why did you have to beat your wife in front of Imperial Consort Liu? Now we can''t beat¡ªahem." A flurry of punches and kicks rained down on Chen Dazhu. Themotion startled the Sisters of the Ji Family. The Emperor of Jing Country admitting to a mistake? Ensuring justice for all women in the country? From now on, men in Jing Country wouldn''t be able to beat their wives and daughters at home. The Ji sisters were overwhelmed, unable to put their feelings into words. "Miss Ji, we meet again!" Zheng Qiru, seeing that the matter was resolved, felt greatly relieved. Turning around, he spotted the Ji sisters and his eyes lit up with joy. "Are you alright?" "Have you really decided about joining the youtiao shop?" These words caught Liu Chaniang''s attention, her gaze suddenly shifting towards them. "Are you the... ahem." Liu Chaniang almost blurted out her daughter''s nickname for the sister duo. "Are you the young women who want to join the breakfast shop?" Liu Chaniang smiled warmly at the Ji sisters. "Would you like to have a chat with me about it today?" The Ji sisters looked at the gleaming golden dragon whip in her hand, noticing the bloodstains from publicly flogging the abusive husband. They observed her upright posture, and a surge of passion welled up in their hearts. "We''d be honored, Your Highness!" Chapter 179 In the Sky Room of the inn.0 Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue invited Liu Chaniang to sit at the tea table in their guest room.0 "Xiao Yuan, go buy milk tea¡ª I mean, pour some tea," Ji Chunyue almost let it slip.0 For the past two days, they had been drinking at least two or three cups each day.3 They tossed and turned for half the night, unable to sleep, but today they still wanted to drink...3 Compared to regr tea, milk tea was truly sweet, soft, delicious, and aromatic, making them addicted.0 Now, in a moment of carelessness, she revealed her girlish thoughts in front of Liu Chaniang, wanting to drink milk tea again.2 "It''s alright," Liu Chaniang chuckled, "I''d like some too. Bring me a serving of the oat milk tea as well."1 Ji Chunyue''s eyes lit up, "Madam has the same taste as me. Although the taro vor is also delicious, we just had breakfast and I really can''t eat anymore."0 "Who isn''t in the same boat?" Liu Chaniang was delighted to see that the milk tea her daughter had brought from the Immortal Realm to Jing Country was so popr among women. "It''s just a pity that you''vee all the way from Chu State right at the end of winter and beginning of spring when fruits and vegetables aren''t in season. If you came in summer, you could try the fruit tea, which is iced to beat the heat and is very refreshing and tasty."0 Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue immediately became very interested.1 "Fruit tea?" They had never tried it, but just imagining it seemed nice.0 The sweet and sour fruit vor... The sisters swallowed and quickly stopped themselves.0 "Will this fruit tea be avable at the milk tea shop in summer?" Ji Qiuyue looked out of the inn window, coincidentally able to see the milk tea shop on the next street, where people in silk robes were still queuing to buy.3 At a price of five to ten wen per cup, it wasn''t expensive at all for merchants and officials with money in their pockets.0 They had observed for a day at the inn, and the milk tea shop''s business was almost non-stop.2 Especially now in early spring, when it was still a bit cool and people dared not take off their cotton clothes easily, drinking a cup of warm and slightly hot aromatic milk tea was perfect for dispelling the cold and warming the body.0 But in summer, this warm tea with milk, and being sweet, would be too hot and greasy.2 Ji Chunyue thought of this and was also a bit worried about the milk tea shop''s business in summer.0 But this fruit tea seemed to solve this problem.3 "Yes." Liu Chaniang nodded. It was straightforward talking to smart people. "In summer, not only will there be iced milk tea, but we''ll also introduce specially supplied fruit tea for the season."0 "For the fruit and tea supply to these royal shops, the Emperor has already ordered the Ministry of Revenue to screen and support fruit and tea farmers in various regions, delivering high-quality fruits and teas to shops in various ces, including the capital."0 Liu Chaniang had studied and heard many of Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts, so she spoke clearly and directly addressed the sisters'' concerns.0 "This milk tea shop is meant to do business all year round."3 The Ji sisters were indeed tempted.0 They had been a bit worried about the milk tea shop before, thinking that opening a breakfast shop would be more stable.1 But now they began to waver.0 "Do you have any business experience, or are you skilled in the kitchen?" Liu Chaniang thought of what her daughter said about screening franchise qualifications, and asked.0 The face-to-face review had begun.0 The Ji sisters'' expressions froze for a moment, and they immediately became serious. "We don''t."0 "But we sisters have read the Four Books and Five ssics in Chu State, and have also read merchant biographies."0 "We followed our mother and managed the kitchen that fed over two hundred people in our household, and have also hosted several hairpin flower banquets for distinguished guests."0 They were born into nobility, a family of schrs, and while they didn''t do many things personally, they had learned household management from a young age.1 Plus, with their extensive reading, they learned quickly.0 "If we were to open a shop," Ji Qiuyue thought, "we could ask our mother''s dowry steward. Mother''s dowry included four shops: a pastry shop, a needlework shop, a jewelry shop, and a rice shop."2 "Mother regrly checks ounts with the steward and inquires about shop affairs, and we''ve listened in on the side," Ji Chunyue looked earnestly at Liu Chaniang, "Although we don''t have experience running our own shop, we can ask and learn."0 Liu Chaniang nodded, looking at the bright, clear, and determined eyes of the two sisters. "The main store will be responsible for your training. After three days of learning, there will be a written test and practical assessment."0 "If you pass, you''ll pay the franchise fee and a deposit, and then you''ll receive the royal-granted signboard and officially open for business."0 "But if the branch store doesn''t meet the quality requirements of the court in the future, it will need to be shut down, otherwise the deposit will be confiscated, and there may even be arrests and imprisonment."0 The Ji sisters listened with widening eyes, but soon showed appreciation. "Madam, that''s no problem. The court ensures the quality of all branch stores, and we can only gain the trust of the people if we hang the sign of the royal milk tea shop branch."0 Liu Chaniang smiled, "That''s right. It protects you, as well as all shop owners, and every customer."0 "Also, have you really thought it through? Do you want to open a Jing Country Royal Milk Tea Shop branch in Chu State?"0 The smiles on the Ji sisters'' faces immediately became a bit stiff.0 But after exchanging a nce, they still gritted their teeth and nodded.0 Originally, they just wanted to use some New Year''s money to secretly open a shop in Jing Country, making money under the radar for their future private funds, without letting their future husbands know.0 If life wasn''t happy in the future, they could divorce and live freely on their own.0 But now, after seeing Jing Country''s Consort Liu publicly beat a violent man, and the Jing Country yamen imprisoning husbands who beat their wives, withws protecting women, their thoughts had changed somewhat.0 "Madam, we want to bring milk tea and fried dough sticks back to Chu State."1 "We also want to bring back your courage and decisiveness, Madam, and the gender equality of Jing Country''sws!"0 Ji Chunyue''s eyes flickered, "We hope that one day, women in Chu State can also be fearless like you, Madam, and do what they want to do."0 Liu Chaniang was moved, her eyes slightly red.0 What she had done was hardly worth mentioning.1 It was all because of the changes brought by her immortal reincarnation, Chuchu.0 Liu Chaniang couldn''t help but reach out and grasp the fists of the Ji sisters. "Let''s work hard together."0 "Even I have only taken a small step forward with the support of my family."0 Liu Chaniang looked at the sunlight outside the window, "In the future, we must continue to move forward."0 The Ji sisters suddenly felt like crying.0 How could this be?0 They had never seen a consort like Jing Country''s Consort Liu who so boldly defended women, yet she still felt that what she had done was little, insignificant.0 How humble.0 But it was precisely this humility that infected them, giving them unprecedented confidence and strength.0 "Yes!"0 They could definitely do it.3 The Ji sisters held hands, their resolve to open a shop as firm as a rock!0 "Your Majesty, we have another favor to ask. Would it be possible for the Jing Country Bank to offer loans to people from Chu State?" Ji Chunyue asked earnestly after her maid Xiaoyuan had bought milk tea and opened the door.1 The request startled even Xiaoyuan. "Mydy?!"0 They had bet with Zheng Qiru that merchants from Chu State wouldn''t borrow money from the Jing Country Bank!2 Yet now, Ji Chunyue herself was going to borrow money!1 Ji Chunyue gave Xiaoyuan a reassuring look, and with her sister''s support, she took a deep breath and continued, "Your Majesty has probably guessed that wee from a prominent family in Chu State. Our personal fundse partly from our grandfather and partly from our mother''s dowry and private assets."0 "In truth, neither portion really belongs to us."0 "As the saying goes, ''He who takes is beholden.'' If we want to open Jing Country milk tea and youtiao branches in Chu State and promote Jing Country''sws and women''s status, we can''t use money from our family or Chu State to prove ourselves," Ji Chunyue dered resolutely as the elder sister.3 "Of course, if war breaks out between the two countries in the future, we will still side with Chu State," Ji Chunyue added reluctantly. "We hope that day neveres."0 [The Chu State sisters'' loyalty to Jing Country has reached 71%.]3 [Impressive.]0 Xiao Chuchu checked the system. [System evaluation: The two have reached the level of ''willing to be peace ambassadors between the two countries.'' As long as the first shot of war isn''t fired, they will persuade their father and brothers to do their utmost for peaceful rtions between Chu and Jing.]1 In the imperial study, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but pause with his teacup.3 So this was what 70% loyalty looked like.0 What wouldplete loyalty be like?0 Xiao Yunzhou didn''t dare to imagine.0 How was the King of Chu faring?2 Would he be angered to death?0 "Pfft¡ª" Xiao Yunzhouughed out loud.1 Wei Zheng, standing nearby, couldn''t help but look at the emperor in surprise.1 "What are you looking at?! Your dumbfounded expression just amused me."0 "..."0 "Oh, right, call Head Imperial Physician Hu here. The other day, he mentioned noticing the flowers and nts in Liu Chaniang''s room when he saw her doing needlework, and it gave him an idea for a beauty face cream?"0 "???" Wei Zheng''s eyes widened.2 That Head Imperial Physician Hu, gossiping with the emperor again!?0 [Oh my, there''s hope for my skin?] Xiao Chuchu was suddenly excited.0 [Hey, system prompt, Chu State sisters'' attribute number two: Love of beauty!]1 Chapter 180 Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue borrowed five hundred taels from a bank in Jing Country, barely enough to open a milk tea shop, and then set off to return to Chu State. Before leaving, Ji Chunyue blushed as she tossed a jade pendant to Zheng Qiru, saying, "Silly boy, we ept our loss in this bet!" Zheng Qiru''s face turned red, and he stammered, "As soon as I finish the imperial exams, I''ll write to you... to both of you..." "Who wants your letters?" Ji Chunyue''s ears burned as she quickly lowered the carriage curtain. Ji Qiuyue and Yuan covered their mouths,ughing. Although Zheng Qiru had a w on his temple, his features were handsome, and his manner refined. More importantly, he respected women. "If the youngdy marries such a man in the future, it wouldn''t be bad at all." "Don''t talk nonsense! Yuan, shut your mouth!" The carriage departed amidst the sisters''ughter and banter. Inside the pce, Xiao Yunzhou was rocking Xiao Chuchu''s small cradle, frowning in deep thought. The two beauties from Chu State had left. With only a seventy percent follow rate, the task of collecting elites remained temporarily iplete. He wondered when he would be able to fully win them over. [Oh my, isn''t this just like a story of talented schrs and beautifuldies?] Xiao Chuchu, however, wasn''t worried at all. She was eagerly watching the live stream of Zheng Qiru reluctantly bidding farewell to the beauties. She nced at the shy Ji Chunyue inside the carriage and the hint of sadness in her eyes as she departed, clicking her tongue in amazement. [I never thought that a man from Jing Country with 99 intelligence, who had never been married, would end up waiting for a beauty from Chu State!] [They actually have some pink bubbles around them~ It''s quite shippable~] [This silly boy, why doesn''t he recite a poem of parting right now?] [Writing letterster... thinking of her on the first day, thinking of her on the second day, still thinking of her on the third day~ Hey, I''ll have to keep an eye on them in the future.] Xiao Chuchu grinned like a doting aunt, enjoying this budding romance. [However, Zheng Qiru has nothing to his name right now, just a poor schr. His appearance is also wed in others'' eyes. I guess Ji Chunyue''s grandfather, the Prime Minister of Chu State, won''t easily agree to this marriage.] Xiao Yunzhou listened, dumbfounded. What did it mean to "ship" a couple? When did these two be an item? As the Emperor of Jing Country, he was delighted at the prospect of a Chu State beauty marrying into Jing Country. It would be even better if all the men in Chu State remained bachelors, haha! Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t stop grinning at the thought. Let the King of Chu cry! Let the men of Chu State cry! Who told them not to have a fairy princess to enlighten them about ''gender equality''?! Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou was greatly amused. He ordered the Ministry of Revenue to allocate funds specifically to support women''s schools. Not only would they learn needlework, but also reading and writing, medical skills, sewing techniques, and business management. "Liu Chaniang, you should also gather the women in the harem to study together," Xiao Yunzhou said to Liu Chaniang. "Those who perform poorly in assessments or are unproductive will have their monthly allowances reduced." "Let Consort Min assist you, the women in the harem should set an example." "This way, other men will learn to be as open-minded as me!" And so, a great reform in the harem began. Regardless of whether you were previously an Empress, Noble Consort, Consort, or pce maid, from now on, everyone had to study and improve! The Third Prince and Fourth Prince, who disliked studying the most, returned to their mother''s pce to find her struggling with books and cursing. They couldn''t help but chuckle and even lectured their mother. "Concubine Liu is doing this for your own good, Mother," said even the usually unruly Fourth Prince, who rarely showed brotherly affection or proper manners. At this moment, he felt that Concubine Liu was doing the right thing. Looking at his own mother, Consort Li, he said, "Didn''t you always tell me to read more, saying that books contain the principles of governing the world and ways to surpass my elder brother?" "Reading is good for me." "So, Mother, you should also listen to Concubine Liu. She''s doing this for your benefit too," the Fourth Prince said with a grin. Consort Li was speechless. She felt nauseated, "How can this be the same? She''s just tormenting me! I''m not a prince!" The Fourth Prince red, "Mother, now you''re being unreasonable. Concubine Liu is giving you a chance to surpass the Empress. If you don''t cherish it and make progress, how can youin?" "???" Consort Li felt a tightness in her chest. These were all the words she used to urge her son to study. Now they had alle back to bite her! Seeing his mother silent, the Fourth Prince became even more smug as he lectured her, "Today, Fifth Brother mentioned that there''s a brilliant poor schr in this imperial examination, which shows that extensive reading can change one''s social status." "Concubine Liu is making you all study to give you a chance to strive for Father Emperor''s favor and catch up with the Empress. You can''t just rely on your son, can you? You can''t just use your mouth without using your brain!" "If I can''t be the Crown Prince, who''s to me? Both you and I are responsible." "..." Consort Li felt faint. How did she end up giving birth to such a thick-skinned, good-for-nothing? Forget about the Emperor, even she couldn''t stand him. If the Fourth Prince became Emperor, would he make her, his mother, help him review official documents?! Consort Li felt dejected but still had to study. "Mother, hurry up and read. I heard that from now on, there will be monthly exams for the women in the harem. If you end up at the bottom, you''ll be worse than your son. In the future, don''t scold me if I perform poorly in my studies." "..." All at once, the women in the harem were studying diligently, burning the midnight oil. Those with children were urged by their kids to study, while those without children had to rely on themselves for future security, so they studied even harder. Empress Tong gritted her teeth and studied day and night, all for the day she could surpass Concubine Liu again! Both inside and outside the pce, the sound of reading aloud could be heard everywhere. Three dayster, the sessful candidates from the metropolitan examination proceeded to the pce examination, where Xiao Yunzhou personally set the questions and conducted oral examinations. Wei Zheng held Xiao Chuchu as they watched the excitement from behind a curtain. The curtain was made of strings of southern pearls, with gaps in between. Behind the pearl curtain was anotheryer of fine gauze, shielding Xiao Chuchu from the candidates'' curious nces. However, through the pearl curtain and gauze, Xiao Chuchu could vaguely make out the blurred figures and the system dialogue boxes appearing above their heads. As she looked, she was surprised, [Oh my, my maternal grandfather hasn''t been to the pce in a long time, and his intelligence has risen to 91?!] [Wow, that''s even higher than some of the candidates below!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but exim internally. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. What? Old man Liu was already so old, yet his wisdom could still improve by leaps and bounds? He looked at the white-haired Liu Wenchang standing to one side, his envy evident. [It seems that reading ten thousand books is not as good as traveling ten thousand miles, and traveling ten thousand miles is not as good as meeting countless people. It really is true.] Xiao Chuchu, nestled in Wei Zheng''s arms, pondered. [My maternal grandfather hasn''t taken any magical elixirs in the past six months, and being busy in the Ministry of Personnel, he hasn''t had time to read too many books.] [It''s simply because he''s in the Ministry of Personnel, interacting with officials from various departments and regions.] Xiao Chuchu pondered, [Most likely, it''s because he''s met countless people, and they''re all officials with high intelligence and strong capabilities, so my grandfather''s intelligence has been honed and improved.] [It seems that the system''s intelligence assessment isprehensive, not just about test-taking ability, but also includes skills like reading people and getting things done.] As Xiao Yunzhou listened, his eyes sparkled with increasing interest. "Your Majesty, all the top-ranking candidates from the Imperial Examination are here." "Let the pce examination begin!" Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly and nodded immediately. [Zheng Qiru, intelligence 99.] [Li Chang, intelligence 97.] [Zhou Shuxin, intelligence 94.] ... [Lu Han... 71.] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered as he quickly ranked the first and second-ce candidates, including the positions of Zhuangyuan (top scorer), Tanhua (second ce), and Bangyan (third ce). * "Grandfather, it''s just a tea shop. What''s wrong with learning from Jing Country?" Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue stood anxiously in the study of the Ji family patriarch, who was also the Prime Minister of Chu State. They looked at the white-haired old man before them. "What''s there to fear about learning from Jing Country?" "Absolutely not! There''s no need to discuss this further! I allowed you to travel, not to collude with Jing Country," Ji Duan, the Prime Minister of Chu State, dered resolutely, brooking no argument. "Chu State cannot possibly learn from the small Jing Country!" "If you want to open a shop, your grandfather will help you. You can open anything else." The Ji sisters exchanged nces, seeing the sorrow in each other''s eyes. Born into a great family, they wanted for nothing, but they were also bound by family constraints. Usually, they enjoyed their grandfather''s doting affection, but when it came to crucial matters, they had no freedom at all. Ordinary Chu merchants could travel between Jing and Chu to conduct business, but they couldn''t. "If they have something better than us, why can''t we learn from them? Grandfather, you''re so old-fashioned!" "Hmph, whether it''s industry, agriculture, military, ormerce, they''re not as good as us. There''s no need to mention this again. If His Majesty finds out, he might be displeased with you." The Ji sisters felt dejected. They had already borrowed money from the bank in Jing Country. But their family wouldn''t agree. Ji Chunyue pulled back Ji Qiuyue, who was about to argue further. "Sister, let''s go." Back in their room, she asked Yuan to open the package they had brought back from Jing Country, then found the sachet that Concubine Liu from Jing had given them. As soon as they opened it, they were stunned. ¡ª Branch location: The border between the two countries. The Ji sisters: "!" Their eyes lit up. Chapter 181 Imperial Pce of Jing Country. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, silencing the cab ministers and the Minister of Officials who opposed appointing Zheng Qiru as the top schr due to his unsightly appearance. "We do not judge people by their looks," the Emperor dered. "Your Majesty, if our top schr looks like this, won''t we beughed at by other countries?" "Are we going to forbid our top schrs from meeting foreign envoys from now on?!" Xiao Yunzhou pressed his lips together. In the past, he might have cared about saving face, but now, after listening to the little princess''s teachings, his thinking had be more open-minded. Xiao Yunzhou looked at Chancellor Fu Cha and the Minister of Officials. "Is our country''s reputation solely based on the appearance of our men?" The Minister of Officials and the cab were shocked. In the past, the Emperor would never have uttered such words. These words could onlye from someone with a broad mind and far-reaching vision. Clearly, Xiao Yunzhou had subtly reached this level. "It''s better for other countries to see our top schr." He leaned forward, "We want talented individuals from all countries to know that in Jing Country, regardless of gender, age, physical disabilities, or appearance, as long as you have skills, Jing Country will value and employ you." [Oh! Well said, my Emperor father.] Behind the screen in the study, Xiao Chuchu was being fed vegetable porridge by Liu Chaniang. Because she wasn''t crying or making a fuss, the ministers, even though they knew the little princess was behind the screen, couldn''t be bothered to mind her presence. Now, Xiao Chuchu was almost openly spending her days in the imperial study, always ready to observe the drama unfold. Hearing Xiao Yunzhou''s words, Xiao Chuchu''s imagination ran wild. [Isn''t this talent recruitment? Immigration policy?] Xiao Yunzhou, who had just been pleased with his daughter''s praise, was suddenly stunned. Immigration? [Attracting talented individuals from various countries and regions, encouraging them to join our country''s citizenship.] [They would need to pay taxes in our country, contribute to our nation''s development, and of course, they could enjoy the welfare policies of our citizens.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes flickered, his heart suddenly burning with excitement. Good! What an excellent idea of immigration! The words he had just casually used to show off¡ªno, to lecture the cab¡ªactually aligned with the thoughts from the Immortal Realm. [I remember that for immigration and talent recruitment, there are several criteria. First is whether the person has high educational qualifications or is a research or management talent.] [Second is whether they have certain assets, or pay taxes locally, or invest a certain amount in the area.] Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou wanted to apud. Recruiting schrs, officials, merchants, and skilled farmers from other countries! Or wealthy people who would bring money to Jing Country! Weren''t these two categories exactly what Jing Country needed most now¡ªpeople and money? Ah, this talent recruitment and immigration policy from the Immortal Realm was truly spot-on! The only problem, Xiao Yunzhou frowned, was whether talented individuals and rich merchants from other countries would be willing toe to Jing Country. Previously, it had been quite challenging to attract people from Duoti and the twin beauties from Chu State. [Of course, we also need to have attractive features for talents, such as what Emperor Father said¡ªwe recruit talents regardless of physical condition, gender, or age.] [Besides this, there should be more specific talent benefits, such as housing and business establishment privileges.] Xiao Chuchu recalled, [It requires strong national power and welfare policies to support!] [In a word, we use our strengths to attract them!] [We offer what others don''t have. For example, development opportunities, excellent educational environment, and so on...] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes grew brighter as he listened. The little princess''s suggestions subtly incorporated the approach used in three previous instances of gathering elite individuals. Jiu Xiao - giving them opportunities to fulfill their ambitions, Duoti - offering better military welfare, and the sisters from Chu State - providing more job opportunities and legal support for women. Not to mention Jing Country''s culinary and medical expertise! [We need to promote our country''s advantages... let talented individuals from other countries see them.] Xiao Chuchu pondered, but she didn''t truly understand these professional matters. She could only think about it a little in her mind. However, she didn''t realize that this little thought was already a highly advanced concept in ancient times. Xiao Yunzhou immediately had an idea. He stood up abruptly and looked at the senior cab ministers before him. "While talking with you, I suddenly remembered what Concubine Liu suggested to me a few days ago. She proposed that Chu people who want to join the milk tea shop franchise should open their shops at the border between our two countries." Chancellor Fu Cha and the Minister of Officials were bewildered. How did the Emperor''s thoughts jump so quickly? They were almost dumbfounded. Weren''t they just discussing the new top schr who was extraordinarily ugly? How did the topic suddenly shift to milk tea shops? "I think Concubine Liu''s idea is very clever. I want to open a Jing Country-style cultural gathering ce at the border between the two countries!" "?!" "Not only will I open food shops there, but I''ll also set up free clinics, demonstrating open-chest and abdominal surgeries..." "???" Xiao Yunzhou felt his thoughts were clearer than ever before. Just as his daughter said, they needed to showcase Jing Country''s advantages for all talented individuals from other countries to see! "Order the new top schr Zheng Qiru to assist in this matter." "Also,mand Liu Runnian from the Ministry of Works to disy the newly acquired items at that cultural gathering." "And the Ministry of Officials, Ministry of Revenue, and Ministry of Justice,pile our country''s recent new policies." "??" Amidst the bewildered gazes of the ministers, Xiao Yunzhou stood up. "I want all other countries to know that Jing Country now far surpasses its former self!" Everyone in the imperial study was shocked. ... At the Spring Flower Banquet in the mansion of the Prime Minister of Chu State, noble young men anddies residing in the capital came to attend. Whether talented schrs or beautifuldies, they all gathered around the beautiful twin sisters, Ji Chunyue and Ji Qiuyue. "Love pea milk tea?" "Fruit tea?" "Does Jing Country really have so many good things? Howe we''ve never heard of them?" If anyone else had said this, these youngdies and gentlemen might not have believed it, but looking at the elegant and dignified Ji sisters, they werepletely convinced, as if the twins were the center of attention. Ji Chunyue nodded, "Not just these, they also have very interesting board games. My sister and I yed untilte at night, and even learned some household management principles from them." The other youngdies, upon hearing this, were all curious and very interested. "Chunyue, did you bring any back?" Ji Chunyue immediately showed a regretful expression, "No, we came back in a hurry." At that time, they were only concerned about returning to open the shop and left the board games behind. The maid Yuan couldn''t help but interject, "The roast duck is also delicious, and so are the hot pot and barbecue skewers!" The young men and women of Chu State immediately looked longing. "Alright, wedies are having a private conversation, you all should leave now," Ji Qiuyue dismissed the men. After all the men had left, Ji Qiuyue mysteriously began speaking to the youngdies from various noble families, and even the married Princess of Chu who hade to visit today. "Our biggest gain from this secret trip to Jing Country wasn''t actually the food." "Instead, we heard the sound of women standing up!" The youngdies from various noble houses of Chu State and the Princess of Chu were all startled. Until sunset, everyone listened intently, reluctant to leave. Even when their mothers came to urge them home, they were still not satisfied and kept asking Ji Qiuyue to continue. "Did Concubine Liu from Jing Country really whip men dozens of times in public and say she would continue to do so?" "Men are not allowed to hit women? Otherwise, they''ll be hit back?" "Can women go out to work? Even married ones?" "What is this ''suturing technique''?" "So Concubine Liu beat and disciplined men, and not only was she not punished, but she also got the emperor to change thew?" The sky had darkened, the tea had gone cold, and the youngdies had drunk their fill of water. Even the Princess of Chu felt a bit drowsy, yet they were still reluctant to leave. It was too legendary. In their Chu State, not only did such things not happen, but they weren''t even in storybooks! Ji Chunyue, seeing it was getting toote, couldn''t keep everyone any longer and stood up to see her guests off. As they were leaving, she remembered the bookworm''s letter mentioned yesterday and lowered her eyes, saying, "In the next few days, at the border between Jing Country and ours, Xun Prefecture will open milk tea shops and host special cultural gatherings in Jing Country style." Everyone''s eyes lit up. Xun Prefecture was Jing Country territory but very close to their Lanshan City in Chu State. They were separated by water. Sometimes they would go there for outings, as the temples there were said to be very efficacious. Especially for seeking blessings in marriage and childbirth, their elders would sometimes take them there to burn incense. "You should tell your families at home. Those who want to go burn incense should go quickly. In a few days, when Jing Country starts their special cultural gatherings, there might not be enough rooms at Lanke Temple." The group of youngdies, and even the Princess of Chu, all had a glimmer in their eyes upon hearing this. * In the third month of spring, Xiao Yunzhou led the two princes, Cheng Qian and Cheng Shan, along with Concubine Liu, little princess Xiao Chuchu, and a group of officials to Xun City. "Your Majesty, our cultural gathering will officially begin tomorrow!" "Themon people have spontaneously put upnterns and decorations, just waiting for your arrival!" Chapter 182 Xun Prefecture, a poor region on the border of Jing Country, was separated from Chu State by just a river. From there, one could see the back mountain of Lan Shan Temple in Chu. Soldiers guarded the cities on both sides, checking the travel documents of civilians entering the cities. However, there was an exception. At the border between the two cities, where the downstream river narrowed, there was a steep cliff that led directly to the foot of Lan Shan Temple in Chu State after crossing from Jing Country. Although the journey was difficult, and it wasn''t easy to stay at inns once inside the city, many people from Jing Country still secretly came to settle in Chu State. Due to this covert route, unfamiliar faces were often seen in Lanshan City of Chu State. The Chu soldiers had be ustomed to this and intensified their daily searches. But today, the flow of people on this secret path was no longer from Jing to Chu, but in the opposite direction! Surprisingly, people had begun sneaking from Chu State into Jing Country. "Hey, how strange. In the past couple of days, fewer people have beening from that poor ce in Jing Country to our Chu State. But now there are more fools going over there from our side?" a soldier responsible for Chu territory remarked curiously. Across the river, they could see the Jing territory, the Jing soldiers, and Chu people secretly running down from the back of the temple, crossing the river to the Jing side, and bribing the Jing soldiers. "Boss, should we stop those few?" a Chu soldier asked. "Judging by their clothes, they look like young masters out for a stroll." "No need. Don''t meddle. What if they''re visiting rtives? As long as Jing people don''t run into our Chu territory, it''s fine! Just guard our area well. Don''t let even a mosquito from Jing Country in carelessly!" "Alright." But as the sun rose higher, the Chu guards were dumbfounded. One, two... more than ten... There were too many people running to Jing Country today! Were they all traveling merchants? Did they all need to visit rtives in Jing? What day was it today? The Chu guards were increasingly baffled, but soon they saw the situation on the Jing side of the river. At the border of Xun City, right where the two sides met at the river, where Chu and Jing could see each other across the water, a number of well-dressed Jing civilians had arrived. They pushed carts and quickly set up various stalls, mobile carts, and shops! Not long after the morning market began, the other side of the river started to bustle with activity. "Sweet, rich, and fragrant royal milk tea from Jing Country! You can''t get it anywhere else, not even in Chu State!" "Fruit tea that even the Jing Emperor drinks!" "Hot pot and skewers you can''t find anywhere else!" "Grilled skewers, fried skewers, pancakes, fried rice..." Food stalls, spaced out along the riverbank on the opposite side, suddenly became lively! The Chu guards, watching from across the river, were stunned. What was going on? What was happening? "Boss, it''s not good! Jing Country... seems to be up to something!" A soldier hurriedly reported to the watchtower. "They might be plotting something!" "Hm?" Themander, who had just entered the city tower to rest, frowned and stood up. He picked up his sword and stood on the observation deck, looking out. "Are Jing soldiers crossing the river with weapons? Are they tired of living and want to cause trouble!?" "No, they''re not carrying weapons. They''ve set up a street-long line of food stalls opposite us." "???" The Chumander nearly fainted. Damn it, in all his years of military service, he had never seen this kind of mischief! From the observation deck, he could indeed see colorful stalls and shop signs fluttering in the wind! It wasn''t just food stalls; there was everything from food to entertainment to daily necessities! "Jing Country Special Fair?" Themander''s sharp eyes caught sight of the conspicuousrge banner at the end of the seemingly ant-like, stretching line of stalls. What was this thing!? The Chumander was dumbfounded. Should he report this to his superiors? But Jing Country was on their own territory, they could do whatever they wanted, and it wasn''t for Chu people to interfere, right? The Chumander was utterly confused. "Let''s just observe for now. They''re only selling things, so we shouldn''t interfere." [Oh my, our special fair is clearly visible to Chu civilians and soldiers, but they can''t eat or y unless they cross the river.] [Hmm... Father Emperor is really clever this time.] Xiao Chuchu sat in her wooden baby carriage, with Wei Zheng and a guard in front, and Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang behind. They were now traveling incognito, disguised as wealthy merchants out for a tour. [This isn''t a military invasion of Chu State, but it has a vor of cultural invasion, tsk tsk.] Xiao Chuchu mused. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. Cultural invasion? [Letting our Jing Country''s special culture slowly influence the Chu masses and soldiers? Is this what Father Emperor had in mind?] Xiao Yunzhou lowered his head, his ears reddening slightly. He hadn''t thought that far ahead, he just wanted to attract talent. But what a bloodless, non-violent invasion. Xiao Yunzhou learned something new and perked up his ears, wanting to hear more about this. But Xiao Chuchu''s attention had already been drawn to the baby carriage she was sitting in. [How amazing, I didn''t expect my uncle toe up with a modern baby carriage~] [It''s been a while since Ist saw him, and uncle has unlocked a new technology tree~] [It feels quitefortable, I finally have freedom, without feeling constrained by Wei Zheng.] [The soft cushion under my bottom is veryfortable too~] Today was Xiao Chuchu''s first time trying out this new creation from the Ministry of Works: a baby carriage! [But I think I need a safety belt. If mother pushes me and suddenly brakes, throwing me into a ditch, that would really be a pitfall.] Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou''s expression immediately tensed. Liu Chaniang broke out in a cold sweat, somewhat afraid to push anymore. She had originally thought this baby carriage was verybor-saving and allowed the little princess to have a forward view, seeing things clearly. Now that there was this danger, she dared not move. "Ahem, Runnian, I see the little princess''s body constantly lurching forward and downward. This mobile cradle of yours isn''t working well," Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but speak up. Liu Runnian felt he wasn''t careful enough. "Your Majesty is right." "Wei Zheng, get a soft silk cloth to secure the little princess." Only then did Xiao Chuchu show a relieved expression. As Wei Zheng tied her in, he coaxed her, begging and pleading, but the position was wrong. Xiao Chuchu used her little hands to move the ''safety belt'' that he was trying to tie around her legs to the correct position. "Wei Zheng, just follow the little princess''s lead," Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t bear to see his daughter unable to speak and being frustrated by Wei Zheng''s stupidity. "She''s clever and has her own ideas." "Indeed, Your Majesty, the position of the soft satin that the little princess wanted to be tied with is truly very secure. It doesn''t move much and doesn''t hurt the body," Wei Zheng stood up and immediately offered ttery. Xiao Yunzhou and Xiao Chuchu simultaneously disyed expressions offort and satisfaction. ¡ª Of course, it''s a heavenly treasure from the realm of immortals. ¡ª Naturally, it''s a modern safety belt. As they were both feeling proud and pleased, a young gentleman approached them, his eyes fixed on the baby carriage. "Is this a wooden cart for children to sit in?" he asked. "May I inquire where it can be purchased?" Even though the young gentleman lowered his voice, his tone still exuded a sense of elegance and refinement. Xiao Yunzhou and the others wore subtle expressions. Upon observing the young gentleman''s delicate features, they realized this was another case of a woman dressed as a man. [Holy crap, the system is telling me that the person in front of me is an important figure!] [This elite individual upies five card slots at once.] Xiao Chuchu widened her eyes in surprise. [The Princess of Chu!] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang stared in astonishment. However, the Princess of Chu standing before them in male attire hadn''t yet realized her cover was blown. She bent down, captivated by the adorable Xiao Chuchu and the small baby carriage beneath her. At first nce, it was clear she was also a mother with a child. "If you could inform me where this small carriage can be purchased, I would be most grateful," the Princess awkwardly cupped her hands in a salute towards Xiao Yunzhou. Chapter 183 The baby stroller Xiao Chuchu was sitting in was made of smooth pear wood, polished to remove any splinters. As soon as it was pushed out today, it attracted the attention of many passersby. However, upon seeing Xiao Yunzhou and hispanions in their brocade robes and dignified demeanor, people assumed they were nobles or officials and dared not approach to inquire further. But at this moment, the Princess of Chu, disguised as a wealthy merchant''s son, was exceedingly bold. Her gaze waspletely drawn to the adorable Xiao Chuchu and the small stroller. The stroller only upied the space of one or two people. It had round wheels at the bottom and a secure seat for the baby on top, padded with a thick, soft nket. Above the wheels, the baby stroller had an additionalyer of boards where various items could be stored. At present, it held spare clothes and diapers that Xiao Chuchu might need. The handle of the stroller was shaped like a curved hook, from which hung Xiao Chuchu''s bamboo water bottle. The stroller was entirely wooden, small and exquisite, made even more adorable by Xiao Chuchu''s rosy little face and her pink butterfly-patterned jacket. Princess Yunwu of Chu took an immediate liking to it. "I noticed you pushing the child in this little carriage from ten paces away," she said. What particrly caught her eye was that the one pushing the stroller was the beautiful and young Liu Chaniang, who was wearing a lotus-colored dress that matched her daughter''s outfit. When Princess Yunwu had nced over from afar, she saw a graceful, slender young woman leisurely strolling down the street, effortlessly pushing the child with one hand. asionally, she would even casually take a sip of milk tea from her maid''s hand. She would nce at the child, ensuring she wasn''t crying or fussing and was in good spirits, then the young woman would calmly look at the attractions along the street. Taking care of this child seemed... sofortable, rxed, and effortless! Shopping, drinking tea, and watching the child - she could do all three withoutpromise. This young mother instantly evoked admiration and envy in the Princess! "This stroller isn''t for sale yet. In the future, we''ll open a baby stroller shop in this location," Xiao Yunzhou gave Liu Runnian a look, and Liu Runnian immediately stepped forward to answer. [Hehe, I''m the first one to use it,] thought Xiao Chuchu. [This baby stroller still needs a safety belt added, so let''s not rush. Let my uncle think about it some more.] [But judging from today, there seems to be quite a market for baby strollers nowadays~] [I''ve juste out, and I''ve already be a brand ambassador with the first order!] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Runnian were secretly pleased upon hearing this. More silver for the national treasury~ Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Princess of Chu and said, "In the future, we will regrly hold gatherings here. My friend, you cane back in a month or two." Upon hearing this, the Princess of Chu was quite disappointed. "I have to wait?" Xiao Yunzhou was about to politely exin and put on an act of ''good things take time,'' when he saw the Princess cup her hands in farewell and turn away disappointedly. He suddenly became anxious. "My friend¡ª" This was the Princess of Chu, equivalent to five elite individuals! She was a formidable figure recognized by the celestial realm. Missing this opportunity to win her over might mean losing it forever. But after calling out to stop the Princess, Xiao Yunzhou found himself at a loss for words. It was impossible for him to give away this first baby stroller in Jing Country, currently upied by his precious daughter''s bottom. "Uh..." Just as he was feeling awkward, he heard his daughter''s rescuing thoughts. [Right, my old man''s smart again. Don''t let her leave. We might not have stock now, but we can take pre-orders~] Xiao Chuchu''s thoughts were full of schemes. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes immediately lit up. He looked at the puzzled Princess of Chu and said, "To be honest with you, I''m in the business of making these strollers." "The one my young daughter is sitting in is the world''s first baby stroller." Hearing this, the Princess of Chu indeed stopped in her tracks and looked at Xiao Yunzhou with renewed interest. To think that the person who came up with this idea to free women''s hands was standing right before her. "May I ask your surname? Your ingenuity has left me astounded," said the Princess of Chu, living up to her reputation as a knowledgeable person by immediately pointing out the benefits of this stroller. "Not only does it make things easier for mothers and nannies, but it also gives more women who look after young children the opportunity to leave the house. It''s so convenient to watch over children outside with this. This stroller is truly fascinating." Princess Yunwu had previously heard from the Ji sisters that Jing Country valued women and was gradually promoting gender equality, but she hadn''t quite believed it. Now, seeing this baby stroller, she was starting to believe. Just moments ago, she had even seen this man attempting to wrestle the child''s stroller away from the beautiful woman. Princess Yunwu began to feel some goodwill towards Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou cupped his hands and said, "If you don''t mind, my surname is... Liu." Liu Chaniang, Liu Runnian, and even the group of high-ranking court officials who were following behind in disguise, were all taken aback. The Emperor directly taking on a woman''s surname? How could this be? But Xiao Yunzhou didn''t think anything of it. The Liu family were all clever people, he thought it was fine. He smiled at the Princess of Chu and said, "If you want this stroller, you can ce a deposit with us first." "We can discuss how many you want and when you want them." Xiao Yunzhou nced at the Ministers of Works and Revenue behind him. The two immediately stepped forward. "These two are my family''s ountant and carpentry manager." The two ministers'' mouths twitched at once. The Emperor was addicted to this game, and yet they had to y along! "Pleased to meet you." The Princess of Chu wasn''t blindly trusting of others, but she had grown up in the pce, often eavesdropping on the Crown Prince''s lessons with his tutors. Princess Yunwu nced at Jiang Li and Chen Xun and noticed that they both had the air of schrs about them. They didn''t seem like ordinary ountants or managers, but rather like individuals with academic titles who were used tomanding subordinates. The Princess had an eye for people, so she didn''t doubt further. She pointed to a middle-aged man with a pale face and no beard beside her, "This is my household manager. I''d like to pre-order ten carriages. Fang Mo, please discuss the details with these two managers and ountants." The pale-faced, beardless man immediately agreed, his voice extremely gentle. [He should be a eunuch, like Wei Zheng,] Xiao Chuchu observed at a nce. Xiao Yunzhou nodded secretly, then spoke up, "My friend, from your ent, you seem to be from Chu. Since we''ve met by chance, would you care to join us in our tour?" The Princess was momentarily stunned, but looking down at her male attire, she readily agreed, "Very well. This is my first visit, and I''m not familiar with what''s new in this gathering." Xiao Yunzhou smiled and immediately introduced Liu Chaniang beside him, "This is my wife." "We''re about to visit the snack shop to try some new delicacies: zongzi with salted egg yolk and beetroot soup." [Beetroot soup? Could it be the Jing Country version of borscht?] [Oh, I want to drink that!] [I even dreamed about it the other day! And I''ve eaten the salted egg yolk zongzi twice in my dreams too~] Xiao Chuchu''s mouth watered at the thought. Xiao Yunzhou chuckled quietly. These were indeed his daughter''s inner thoughts as she dreamed of delicious food while asleep. The imperial kitchen had experimented five or six times before perfecting the recipes, keeping them secret until now. This trip to Xun Prefecture was not only to promote the new customs of Jing Country but also for him, as a father, to take his daughter out for some fun. But just as they caught the rich aroma of food and were about to enter the zongzi shop, Princess Yunwu of Chu''s beautiful eyes lit up once again. She noticed a fenced-off sandbox area next to the zongzi shop, where a group of children were ying. There were marbles, wooden swords, and some strange tree hollow-like ythings. "Oh, this is an area for children to y. It''s designed for kids who might get bored while shopping, so they can have fun here instead of troubling their parents." "!" That makes sense. Princess Yunwu''s eyes widened in amazement. Upon closer inspection, she noticed that in this sandbox area full of children, there were quite a few men looking after the kids... and very few women! As the Princess of Chu, Yunwu was of marriageable age and had married and given birth at eighteen. Now, with two children of her own, her biggest headache was how to care for them daily. Leaving them entirely to the wet nurses risked the children not bonding with her, potentially bing spoiled and mdjusted like the Crown Prince in the pce. But keeping them by her side all the time interfered with her duties. However, now¡ªYunwu''s eyes sparkled as she watched the men tending to the children in the sandbox. "Where are these children''s mothers?" Howe it''s all men looking after the kids in Jing Country! As soon as she asked, Liu Chaniang answered with a smile, "The women have their own affairs to attend to." Yunwu was taken aback. "This special gathering has needlework shops, eateries, beauty parlors... many of which are run by women. Naturally, their husbands help take care of the children." Yunwu was astonished. She had rarely let her consort look after their children. Her mother had always told her that even as a princess, she should live ording to the rules for women. "Is it like this all over Jing Country? Isn''t it supposed to be women inside, men outside?" Liu Chaniang nced at Xiao Yunzhou, "When men and women work together, the task bes easier. From the capital of Jing Country to the bordends, we make progress every day. One day, the whole country will be like this!" "Capable women can go out if they want to, and pursue careers if they wish." "Of course, they can also choose to stay at home." Princess Yunwu''s eyes flickered. Well said! What a concept¡ªwomen doing whatever they want to do! Chapter 184 In the children''s y area, parents could leave their children to y freely. The local government office, which was hosting a special Jing Country gathering, had even assigned constables to verify adults'' identities before they could retrieve their children. "Half an hour for twenty coins, it''s not expensive," Princess Yunwu of Chu remarked, listening to the constantughter from the children in the sandbox. She found this idea brilliant. Her own two children would cry when separated from her. From pregnancy until her children were three years old, she could barely leave home. On the rare asions when she attended gatherings with other nobledies or visited her parents at the pce, she never dared to stay long, always rushing back home. But to her surprise, here in the sandbox were boys and girls who seemed no older than five, ying happily together. Even with their fathers nearby, the children didn''t rely on them, insteadmunicating with their ymates on their own. They yed marbles, crawled in and out of hollowed-out tree trunks, or busied themselves building things on what looked like sandbox tables. "Interesting. These tree trunks are novel, allowing children to be active. With many children around, they can make friends too." Several children crawled into one side of a tree trunk, winding their way through, and emerged from another opening. [Modern kids love these tunnels too~ They can even slide down~ But let''s forget about using actual tree trunks, they''re too fragile.] Xiao Chuchu thought to herself, muttering quietly. Xiao Yunzhou immediately coughed lightly and turned to the Minister of Works, "The tree trunks might rot and copse easily. It would be better to use other, more durable materials." Chen Xun, the Minister of Works, nodded quickly in agreement. The Princess of Chu, imagining the tree trunks and hollows reced with sturdy iron or wood, felt much more at ease. Watching the boys and girls ying joyfully and even screaming with delight, Yun Wu felt a twinge of regret. She had left her two children at the temple today, under the care of their wet nurse. She had assumed that the Jing Country gathering would mostly involve things unsuitable for children to eat or drink, but it turned out not to be the case. After just a few steps, she had already seen so many novel y items for children. Children would probably love it. The princess regretted her decision; had she known, she should have brought her two children along to experience and enjoy these activities. [The Chu Princess''s favorability towards Jing Country has increased to 7%.] Xiao Chuchu noticed the system prompt and grinned, her little tummy rumbling at the same time. Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang immediately looked down at her with concern. "Let''s go in for a meal. Little prin... ahem," Liu Chaniang coughed lightly, covering up her near slip of the tongue, "It''s gettingte." Xiao Yunzhou nodded and made a gesture of invitation towards the Princess of Chu. The zongzi shop was located between the milk tea shop and the tofu pudding shop, with the aroma of hotpot and roast duck wafting from not far away. Xiao Chuchu secretly nced at Princess Yunwu and noticed that her dignified face showed no sign of being tempted by the enticing smells. She felt anxious inwardly, [Compared to the Ji sisters, the princess is indeed harder to win over.] [It''s understandable. The system says she was the King of Chu''s first child. At that time, the king was nearly thirty and had been married to the queen for over ten years without having a child of their own. The pressure was immense.] [Back then, the court officials of Chu suspected that the king had... performance issues. They not only rmended remedies and famous doctors to the king but also hinted that he should quickly visit efficacious temples to pray and confess his sins to his ancestors, hoping it might help him have a child.] [If that didn''t work, they suggested the king should adopt a child from his elder brother and establish them as the crown prince.] Xiao Yunzhou, Liu Chaniang, and Liu Runnian were stunned by this gossip, their eyes wide with disbelief. Especially Xiao Yunzhou, who had originally despised the King of Chu. This man, who had been at odds with thete emperor, was still alive and continued to create obstacles for Jing Country at every turn. He had previously attempted to sabotage the rtionship between Wu Yun Country and Jing Country, and ording to his daughter, the King of Chu even wanted to attack Jing Country''s cities. The King of Chu ranked among the top three people Xiao Yunzhou disliked. But he never imagined that this king actually had... performance issues. [In modern terms, the King of Chu''s condition would be described as having weak sperm.] [Later, because he had no children, he became anxious and agitated, favoring the queen and all the beauties in his harem daily, which made his condition even worse...] [Goodness, the system says he was like a needle mushroom.] "...!" Xiao Yunzhou opened his mouth, strongly suppressing augh. Liu Chaniang lowered her head and coughed lightly. [At thirty, he finally had his first child, the princess, born to the queen.] [A miracle atst!] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. His fairy daughter was perfect in every way, except that her knowledge of earthly matters was somewhatcking. Is that how you use the phrase "a miracle atst"? [Princess Yunwu naturally became the King of Chu''s most favored child.] [Because this child proved his manhood, proved that there was nothing wrong with him!] Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Princess of Chu with aplex expression. [At that time, the King of Chu gave Princess Yunwu everything, saying she was the most noble princess - even the most noble woman - under heaven.] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. He couldn''t ept that! The most noble in the world must be his precious little princess. The King of Chu could go to hell! What kind of good father was he? Princess Yunwu was just inviting Xiao Yunzhou to sit down, "Brother Liu, how about this window seat?" But when she looked up, she saw Xiao Yunzhou''spetitive gaze fixed on her, which startled Yun Wu. Xiao Yunzhou quickly forced a smile that didn''t reach his eyes, "That''s fine, Brother Yun, please." Xiao Chuchu''s baby stroller was soon settled in the safest position at the innermost part of the table. Facing the dining table, she quickly continued her inner monologue that had been interrupted earlier. [Princess Yunwu has been ustomed to the imperial kitchen''s delicacies since childhood. She''s probably tasted all sorts of precious foods like roasted venison and bear paws.] [Ordinary milk tea, barbecue, and fried skewers probably won''t excite her anymore.] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression wasplex. Indeed, although he loved these heavenly delicacies his daughter introduced, he couldn''t enjoy them for more than a few days. Born into an imperial family and used to the finest food and drink, milk tea and such were just novelties to be enjoyed asionally. [Princess Yunwu wants for nothing in terms of food, clothing, and daily necessities. Because the King of Chu viewed her as an auspicious sign, bringing him several princes afterward, including the crown prince, she was raised very well.] [How to win her over indeed seems to be a problem.] [However, it''s clear that she cares a lot about children and is interested in both the baby stroller and the children''s y area.] Xiao Chuchu pondered, [Should we set up an entire kindergarten?] Kindergarten? Xiao Yunzhou was also deep in thought. Just at that moment, the salted egg yolk meat zongzi and beetroot soup were served. The zongzi, triangr in shape, was cut in half down the middle. On the cross-section, one could clearly see plump glutinous rice grains thoroughly soaked with the juices from the marbled meat wrapped inside, giving it a glossy, soy sauce-colored sheen. In the center, besides the honey-colored meat chunks, there was also a round, golden salted egg yolk that had been cut open. Zongzi existed in Chu State as well. But Yun Wu had never seen one with an egg yolk inside. Additionally, the waiter brought each person a bowl of vegetable soup that looked thick and delicious, as if an entire tomato had melted into it. [Wow, it really looks like borscht!] [I want to drink some~] Xiao Chuchu struggled to lift her head. Liu Chaniang smiled, taking the special little golden spoon and feeding her a small, cooled mouthful. Xiao Chuchu let out a little "awo" sound, closing her eyes in delight. [Who couldn''t love this thick tomato vor? It''s making the elderly and children next door drool with envy!] She was small but drank with gusto, her face showing an adult-like expression of intoxication that even Princess Yunwu found adorable, stirring up a bit of an appetite in her as well. The princess unconsciously took a spoonful to her mouth and sat up straight. [Oh, the system prompts me that this has triggered the princess''s childhood favorite sour food!] [The princess''s favorability towards Jing Country has risen to 11%.] Chapter 185 The borscht was a vibrant red, as if tomatoes had melted into it. Though its temperature wasn''t apparent, one sip revealed a warm, tangy sweetness with a rich aroma. It was hearty yet not greasy, smooth and refreshing. The cabbage inside was fragrant with a subtle sweetness,plementing the rich vor of the sausage. Everything was cooked to perfect tenderness. It wasn''t just suitable for adults; even toothless elderly and children could easily chew and digest it. Princess Yun Wu took four or five sips in session, picking out the soft, sulent cabbage to eat. As she sipped the soup slowly, she told her attendant, "Go buy several more portions." She looked up at Chu Chu sitting in the stroller, her rosy little face scrunched up in delight, eyes narrowed to slits. Yun Wu thought if she found it so delicious, her own children at home would surely love it too. Princess Yun Wu took another sip of the hot soup, breaking the pce etiquette of ''not eating more than three bites'' from the same dish that the imperial nannies had taught her. "Brother Liu, try this meat zongzi," Xiao Yunzhou offered. Yun Wu gracefully wiped her mouth with a handkerchief and nodded, using the opportunity to move her chopsticks to the glistening glutinous rice dumpling. "Alright." Used to pce cuisine, she didn''t find zongzi particrly novel and was even a bit wary of its richness. But after taking a small bite, Yun Wu was pleasantly surprised. The salted egg yolk inside burst with vor,yering with the fresh aroma of the bamboo leaves, the savory sweetness of the meat, and the delicate sauce-infused glutinous rice. Yun Wu''s eyes lit up. This intricate and rich taste was excellent; the children would probably love it too. "Brother Liu, the cuisine in your Jing Country is truly refined and innovative," Yun Wu now fully believed what the Ji sisters had told her. She was even looking forward to trying the milk tea. Her appetite was thoroughly piqued. Yun Wu gave her guard a look, signaling him to buy some other foods elsewhere to take back to the Princess''s Pce. Then she turned to Xiao Yunzhou and asked, "I wonder if Brother Liu knows why Jing Country suddenly decided to host this cultural gathering here?" Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. [Oh my, as expected of the Princess of Chu State who upies five elite character slots!] Xiao Chuchu''s expression of enjoyment while drinking soup paused for a moment. [Her political instincts are so sharp, she''s sensed my imperial father''s hidden agenda!] Xiao Yunzhou choked on Xiao Chuchu''s inner monologue. Hidden agenda... well, that was indeed the case. Xiao Yunzhou lowered his eyes, picked up his teacup, and took a light sip to conceal theplexity in his gaze. "Does Brother Liu know something?" Princess Yun Wu noticed his change in mood and pressed further, "I suspect Jing Country''s cultural gathering at the border must have some ulterior motive." [Hehe, that''s right, my old man wants to poach talent from your Chu State~] Xiao Chuchu wanted tough but held it in. [My old man''s scheme has been caught red-handed.] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. His daughter, reincarnated from a celestial maiden, was perfect in every way except for these inner monologues, which sometimes made his scalp tingle with embarrassment. [It''s okay, Father. As long as you''re not embarrassed, it''s others who should feel embarrassed!] Xiao Chuchu chuckled inwardly. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. This celestial wisdom made sense. Such thick skin¡ªno, such open-mindedness! He immediately cleared his throat and, unabashedly, looked at the perceptive Princess Yun Wu, "Our Jing Country established ties with Wu Yun Countryst year, and now we wish to build good rtions with other neighboring countries as well." "When neighboring countries are at odds, it''s themon people who suffer." Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes, his expression sincere. Why host a Jing Country-style cultural gathering at the border? Of course, it was to showcase the merits of Jing Country to the Chu people! "Isn''t a cultural gathering that benefits both Jing and Chu citizens a good thing?" Princess Yun Wu frowned slightly, feeling something was amiss. But thinking of Xiao Yunzhou''s character¡ªhow he respected his wife and daughter, and as a merchant had even introduced the baby stroller¡ªshe realized he didn''t seem like a typical unscrupulous businessman. Yun Wu nodded, "Brother Liu, merchants typically prioritize profit, yet you consider the welfare of the people. I''ll use tea instead of wine to toast you." As she was about to raise her teacup, amotion erupted outside. "Your Majes¡ª ahem, Liu Runnian, where are you!?" "Is your sister with you?" An urgent voice called out. "A hunter has been mauled by a tiger! His right arm is torn, he''s fallen, and there''s a tree branch stuck in his right abdomen!" Upon hearing this, the diners in the zongzi shop all looked aghast. How unfortunate. Could the hunter even survive? Princess Yun Wu couldn''t help but turn to her attendant, "Go and see. If needed, call for our traveling physician to assist." Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou was quite surprised, "Brother Yun, you are truly kind-hearted. Even though you''re from Chu, you''re willing to help a hunter from Jing territory?" Yun Wu furrowed her brow, "To be honest with you, Brother Liu, I was also educated by renowned teachers in my youth and understand the teachings of the sages." "If I hadn''t encountered such a situation, it would be one thing, but now that it''s happening before my eyes, if I were to ignore it, I fear I wouldn''t be able to sleep at night." From a young age, she had overheard the imperial tutor teaching the crown prince about kingship. The foundation of the state lies in its people. [The Princess has good character too.] Xiao Chuchu mused. [I seriously doubt that if a Chu person copsed in front of my old man, he would help.] Xiao Yunzhou: "..." He wasn''t like that, he wouldn''t... his little princess was making wild usations. Oh my, his daughter, reincarnated from a celestial maiden, had quite a few misunderstandings about her royal father. As he was thinking this, Princess Yun Wu''s eyes suddenly widened in surprise. "Brother Liu, your surname is Liu. Could you be the Liu Runnian they''re looking for? Are they searching for your sister?" Xiao Yunzhou almost nodded, but seeing Liu Runnian sitting diagonally across from him, he managed to restrain himself and didn''t im the identity. In the blink of an eye, the urgent calls from the entrance grew closer. "Liu Runnian! Doctor Meng says he needs your sister''s help to treat the wound and stitch it up immediately!" "If we''rete, the man will die!" The shouting voice was still at least a dozen steps away from the zongzi shop. But when Yun Wu looked at Xiao Yunzhou, thinking he was Liu Runnian, she noticed that the young, beautiful woman sitting next to the baby and feeding hot soup to the adorable infant girl had suddenly stood up. "I''ll go take a look." "You take care of Chu Chu." Liu Chaniang spoke directly to Xiao Yunzhou, not asking for permission but stating it matter-of-factly, with an air of authority that surpassed even the Empress Dowager! The ministers from the Ministry of Works and the Ministry of Revenue were dumbfounded. But after she spoke, not only did Xiao Yunzhou not get angry, he smiled amiably, "Go ahead, go ahead. I''ll take care of things here." "Oh, my precious Chu Chu, your mother has gone out to work. Daddy will feed you, okay?" The group of ministers on their secret inspection tour twitched their mouths in disbelief. Liu Runnian lowered his head even more, trying to suppress a smile he couldn''t quite hide. Xiao Yunzhou''s self-satisfied pride showed no signs of the difort or embarrassment typically associated with being a house-husband. In fact, he seemed eager for Liu Chaniang to leave and get to work. Princess Yunwu of Chu State''s eyes widened in shock. "Is that Brother Liu''s wife they''re calling for outside?" she asked. Xiao Yunzhou nodded, "Mm-hmm. If you''re curious, Sister Yun, you can take a quick look from afar. Don''t get too close, though. We don''t want to risk bringing in any harmful elements that could affect the patient''s wounds." Yun Wu stood up and quickly walked out the door. She saw with her own eyes the bloodied hunter being carried to the site. After watching the doctor bustle about, she witnessed Liu Chaniang''s fluid, expert technique in suturing external wounds! The hunter''s tattered arm and stomach werepletely stitched up! Even the mole on his arm was perfectly sewn back into ce! Yun Wu''s eyes widened in astonishment. She was certain that such medical skill didn''t exist in Chu State. Not among the men, and certainly not among the women! What kind of miraculous technique was this? Yun Wu turned her gaze to Liu Chaniang, who was receiving praise from the gathered onlookers, her eyes glimmering with curiosity. ''That Lady Liu from Jing Country, skilled in the art of suturing, was appointed by the Emperor as a seventh-rank female official to teach more women the medical art of suturing, to save themon people and soldiers.'' ''If a woman''s husband or inws don''t support her, Lady Liu would personally talk to her family...'' Liu... Could this be Lady Liu, Liu Runnian''s sister? Yun Wu''s gaze trembled as she recalled the words of the Ji sisters. She turned to look at Liu Chaniang again, and then at Xiao Yunzhou, who hade out of the zongzi shop cradling an adorable baby girl. If this was Lady Liu, wouldn''t her husband be none other than the Emperor of Jing Country!? Yun Wu''s eyes filled withplex emotions as she watched this emperor, who was yfully doting on his daughter without a hint of shame ¨C in fact, he seemed proud of it... An emperor who supported his consort in pursuing a career... He had even hidden his identity as emperor by using his consort''s surname? Yun Wu''s mouth fell open in shock. Her father, the king, and her younger brother, the crown prince, could never do something like this. Why was it that the Emperor of Jing Country... "Chu Chu, isn''t your mother amazing?" Xiao Yunzhou cooed to his daughter. Yun Wu finally couldn''t hold back anymore and spoke up, "Brother... ahem, Brother Liu, I imagine you must have considerable wealth and power in your household in Jing Country." "I see you doting on your young daughter now, but surely in the future, you''ll still favor your sons and grandsons to inherit your position as head of the household, even if your daughter is talented, courageous, and clever. Isn''t that right?" Xiao Yunzhou was taken aback for a moment, then chuckled lightly, "If my little girl wants to inherit my position as head of the household, I''ll absolutely give it to her. I wouldn''t even spare a nce for my sons or grandsons." Yun Wu''s pupils dted in shock. Xiao Yunzhou found her reaction amusing, as if she''d never seen anything like it before. His own Chu Chu was the reincarnation of an immortal, after all! If an immortal were to be the ruler of Jing Country, that would be truly extraordinary. Three Chu Statesbined wouldn''t be enough to match Jing Country then! [Ah, but I don''t want to do it. I''ve seen how Dad handles state affairs, working 996 every day, even worse than a corporate ve.] Xiao Chu Chu refused. [It''s too exhausting. This job is better suited for my brother.] Xiao Yunzhou smiled wryly. His daughter might be an immortal, but she was certainly azy one. Oh well, he''d have to let Chengqian take over then. "Ah, if only my Chu Chu had any interest in managing our family affairs," Xiao Yunzhou sighed, shaking his head at Yun Wu. Yun Wu took a deep breath. [Whoa, the Chu State Princess''s favorability has skyrocketed to 31%!] Chu Chu eximed. [The system says that Dad just hit on the Chu State Princess''s greatest desire, which is also her secret¡ª] [She wants to be the Empress of Chu State and rece her younger brother, the crown prince!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened in surprise. Chapter 186 [Holy cow, so that''s how it is! No wonder the system''s evaluation of the Chu State Princess is so high.] [She''s so important in the elite catalog because she''s a potential candidate to be the next emperor of Chu State!] Xiao Chuchu finally understood that the system hadn''t tricked her this time. This Chu State Princess, upying five elite positions by herself, was indeed worth it. Xiao Yunzhou listened in astonishment, looked at Princess Yun Wu, and recalling what his daughter had said about the surge in favorability, he understood as well. [She must have heard my old man say he''s willing to make me, his daughter, his sessor, disregarding his son. Now she''spletely infatuated with Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu didn''t know whether tough or cry. [But I''m just a baby! This princess is too quick to believe my old man''s nonsense.] Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, realizing this favorability came without any effort. But as Xiao Yunzhou looked at Princess Yun Wu, he felt nervous for her, knowing that the current Chu King had long ago appointed a crown prince. Unlike him, who had been enlightened by the immortal and knew that in the Immortal Realm, men and women were equal. He was willing to give the throne to the immortal, but that didn''t mean the old-fashioned Chu King would be happy to do so. He felt that Princess Yun Wu''s ambition for the throne was unlikely to seed. "Brother Liu, why do you have such an open mind? Don''t you think the position of family head should be given to sons and grandsons?" Princess Yun Wu paid great attention to Xiao Yunzhou''s answer, clearly hoping to find a reason to influence her own father. But Xiao Yunzhou shook his head and sighed, "Brother Yun, you are of Chu, while I am of Jing." "As Chaniang said, in our Jing Country, the status of women will gradually improve. In the future, the difference between men and women will be smaller and smaller." "What''s so strange about me passing the throne to my daughter?" Yun Wu listened, her eyes trembling with emotion. If these words hade from the Seasons sisters, she would have been skeptical. If they hade from an ordinary merchant of Jing Country, she wouldn''t have taken them seriously. But these words came from the emperor of Jing Country, and Yun Wu was deeply moved. Seeing the Chu State Princess''s excitement and admiration for Jing Country, Xiao Yunzhou suddenly felt a surge of superiority. "Don''t be envious, Brother Yun. It''s not your fault you''re from Chu." Hearing these words, Princess Yun Wu looked at the swaddled Xiao Chuchu, her eyes shing with deep envy. Xiao Yunzhou was thoroughly pleased. Tsk tsk, this feeling of showing off. He never thought that now he could not only show off in front of his own court officials but also in front of a Chu State Princess! If this Chu State Princess really became the next Chu King and admired him so much, wouldn''t Jing Country rise to prominence?! Xiao Yunzhou was suddenly tempted. "Could it be that your father values women, so you''ve been influenced by that?" Yun Wu asked curiously. "No, it''s my daughter..." Xiao Yunzhou blurted out, but seeing Princess Yun Wu''s dumbfounded expression, he quickly stopped himself. "Ahem, it''s my daughter''s mother." Princess Yun Wu suddenly understood. Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze also moved to Liu Chaniang, who was sewing in the distance, and he revealed an expression of approval. By this time, Liu Chaniang had finished her sewing. After she stood up, almost all the onlookingmoners were in awe and praise. "Can women also save people?" "She stitched up several badly torn wounds just now?" "Did she really save him?" "I know this Doctor Meng, he''s the uncle of Meng Chun, the military camp doctor! He was a famous skilled physician years ago! If even he needs this woman to stitch wounds, this woman must be a famous doctor too!" "Female doctor, can you take a look at my illness too?" "Female doctor, can you check on my mother?" Themon people couldn''t distinguish between external injuries and internal ailments, they only knew they had witnessed Liu Chaniang''s miraculous skill in saving people. The hunter was now sleeping peacefully with his eyes closed. Even Doctor Meng said that if he didn''t develop a fever after a night of observation, he would likely be fine. This was simply miraculous! On the spot, some women asked Liu Chaniang to examine them. There were some women''s diseases that female family members were too embarrassed to discuss with male doctors, so they had endured for years without seeking medical attention. But now, having witnessed the medical skills of Liu Chaniang, a female doctor, they were tempted. Liu Chaniang was surrounded, and looking at the earnest eyes of the women, she suddenly realized that to improve women''s treatment and respect, efforts were needed in all aspects! They needed female doctors! "I apologize to everyone, I''m not skilled in internal medicine, currently I only specialize in external wound suturing," Liu Chaniang said apologetically to the surrounding women. But she turned and sincerely looked at the famous doctor Meng Can, who had been invited by Xiao Yunzhou for this free clinic. "Doctor Meng, Chaniang has an unreasonable request. I wonder if you would be willing to teach women the medical skills to treat women''s diseases." Meng Can was somewhat surprised, and the observing Princess Yun Wu was even more moved. "What a great idea, teaching women the medical skills for women''s diseases!" Yun Wu was so excited that she even forgot her disguise as a Chu merchant and stood up. She had thought she was the most ambitious woman in the world, harboring treasonous thoughts, wanting topete with her younger brother, the crown prince, for the throne! But she never expected that today, in front of this concubine Liu from Jing Country''s harem, she would have ambition but no action! What right did she have to be the next Chu King? If she could, then this Liu consort with far-reaching actions could also be a king! No wonder the Jing Country emperor was willing to leave the throne to her young daughter! At this moment, Yun Wu didn''t even care about the discord between her father and the previous Jing King. She very much wanted to meet this Liu consort and make her acquaintance. "Relieving the worries of women all over the world, you truly are the most extraordinary woman under heaven, madam." "May I have a word with you in private?" [Oh my, the Princess has been captivated by my mother''s charm~] Xiao Chuchu was enjoying the drama unfold. [The system is telling me that the Princess wishes she had met my mother earlier to be close friends.] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" His temple twitched. The Chu State Princess wanting to be friends with them wasn''t just Jing Country poaching from Chu State! It was practically poaching from the Chu State royal pce! How thrilling! Xiao Yunzhou almost burst intoughter but managed to hold it back. [The system has rewarded me with additional information about Chu State!] [Holy crap, the current Crown Prince of Chu State, who is Princess Yun Wu''s younger brother, is homosexual and very much in love with his eunuch!] Xiao Yunzhou almost eximed out loud. Howe his spies hadn''t reported this good news to him?! [Both the Queen and Princess Yun Wu know about this and are keeping it from the Chu King.] [Since ten years ago, the Queen has secretly dispersed more than a dozen delicate-looking young eunuchs from around the Crown Prince. But the Crown Prince still can''t shake off his preference for male love.] [Oh my goodness, the system showed me a photo of this crown prince. Good grief, those dark circles and eye bags ¨C he looks utterly exhausted. It''s clear he''s been overindulging in certain activities.] [Oh boy, his intelligence is only 58, and hisbat ability is 18. I can''t help butugh... Is this really the capability of the Chu State''s crown prince?] Xiao Yunzhou listened, utterly entranced. Initially, he had hoped for Princess Yun Wu to ascend to the throne, envisioning a future of good rtions with Jing Country. But upon hearing that the Chu crown prince was ipetent, he was secretly delighted. With this good-for-nothing in power, wouldn''t Chu State crumble immediately? Xiao Yunzhou thought he should go home tonight and burn incense for thete emperor, sharing this wonderful news! However, his joy was short-lived as Xiao Chuchu''s next inner thought left him astounded. [Oh my, this crown prince may be useless, but he''s surrounded by his beloved Four Tiger Eunuchs! The prince listens to them intently, even telling the Empress that if these four were killed, he would take his own life.] [Neither the Empress nor Princess Yun Wu dare to make any rash moves.] [But among the four eunuchs close to the crown prince, one is a warmonger.] [Every day, during their intimate moments in the prince''s chambers, this eunuch whispers in his ear, urging him to wage war as soon as he ascends to the throne.] [He believes that only in chaotic times can true heroes emerge. This warmongering eunuch isn''t content with just being a eunuch; he aspires to be the regent and seize control of all Chu State''s military power!] Xiao Yunzhou drew a deep breath. Jing Country shared a border with Chu State. If such a person came to power, Jing would never know peace! [The crown prince is addicted to malepanionship, uneducated, and easily swayed. No wonder Princess Yun Wu wants to take his ce!] [Otherwise, Chu State will likely be ruined... and we, being their neighbors, might get caught in the crossfire.] Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered, looking withplexity towards Princess Yun Wu, who was attempting to befriend Liu Chaniang. If such a warmonger were to take power, perhaps this benevolent princess would be the better option. "Brother Yun," Xiao Yunzhou approached earnestly, cradling his daughter, "I noticed you seemed quite envious of my willingness to establish a woman as the head of the family." "I wonder, do you have any female rtives who aspire to be the family head?" "If there''s an intelligent woman," Xiao Yunzhou squinted, looking through the sunlight towards Princess Yun Wu, "who wishes to be the family head but is thwarted, with an ipetent man upying the position¡ª" "As a man myself, I find it hard to stand by. I''d be willing to support such an overlooked woman in taking over!" As he spoke, he forgot that he had previously imed anonymously to have the surname Liu, creating a discrepancy. But Princess Yun Wu was so shocked by his words that she didn''t even notice. "Brother, what do you mean by this!?" Princess Yun Wu feigned great anger. Xiao Yunzhou was startled but soonughed inwardly. [Holy cow, Princess Yun Wu''s favorability has shot up to 67%!] Chapter 187 Princess Yunwu looked at Xiao Yunzhou with a sense of caution. Had her identity been discovered? But that was impossible; she hadn''t mentioned anything about the imperial pce. "Brother Yun, I mean no harm," Xiao Yunzhou said, narrowing his eyes. "It''s just that as the head of a household, I''m well aware that the future well-being of those who depend on us is determined by the leader''s ability, vision, and character." Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "The position of family head should be held by the capable. When it is, peace and prosperity reign. When it''s held by the ipetent, everyone suffers." Princess Yunwu''s pupils constricted. Indeed, her desire to be emperor wasn''t born of inherent ambition. Rather, it was after overhearing the royal tutor teaching her younger brother, the crown prince, about the ways of a wise ruler that she gradually came to understand what it meant to be an enlightened monarch. She knew very well that her younger brother, born five years after her,cked both virtue and ability. Being the only legitimate prince and sickly since childhood, both the emperor and empress didn''t dare to reprimand him harshly. While she, as the emperor''s first child, was seen as a good omen for her brother''s birth and now enjoyed a life of luxury, Her younger brother, the crown prince, had been spoiled and pampered to the point of uselessness! She still knew the importance of studying, but her brother wasn''t even pushed to read by the emperor, for fear of tiring or sickening him. As time passed, the crown prince grew ustomed to y and refused to study diligently, even showing great disrespect to the royal tutor who taught the ways of kingship. At the age of ten, he was caught by the empress and herself in the midst of a dirty act with a young eunuch! But even then, the empress med the eunuch, covering up the crown prince''s mistake, still unwilling to punish him. As a result, yearster, her crown prince brother was still secretly cavorting with young eunuchs! Yunwu closed her eyes in pain at the thought. Watching her brother grow up like this, she always wondered why she, clearly more intelligent and driven than him, couldn''t be the ruler of Chu State. She felt resentful, unwilling, and indignant! Indignant for herself, for all the excellent women like her who had to give way, and for the people of Chu State. "Brother Yun, I pity not only the unfulfilled women in your household but also the unfortunate people who depend on your family. I observe your extraordinary bearing, clearly from a noble family, and I worry for those poor souls who rely on you!" Xiao Yunzhou sighed, "When the nest falls, how can the eggs remain unbroken?" Yunwu took a deep breath. Although Jing Country and Chu State had been at odds for years, with no diplomatic rtions, Why did every word this Jing Country emperor said resonate so deeply with her? Yunwu couldn''t help but look at Xiao Yunzhou, "I am from Chu, and you are from Jing. You just asked me why I wanted to help the severely injured hunter from Jing Country. Now I want to ask you a question in return." "If a noble family in Chu State falls, Chu State will surely be greatly weakened. You, as someone from Jing Country, why are you concerned about this? What does the fate of us Chu people have to do with you Jing people?" Xiao Yunzhou almost blurted out that it had absolutely nothing to do with him! Before today, he would have been happy if Chu State disappeared sooner! Who cared about Chu State? But now, after listening to the celestial voice of his daughter, his thinking had progressed! Better to support a benevolent ruler than let a tyrant take the throne. If the two countries opened up trade, his people in Jing Country could earn more silver from Chu State! [Awoo, of course I hope the neighboring country is ruled by a wise monarch, one who is friendly to Jing and loves peace~] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help butment in her heart. [After all, our Jing Country''s military strength isn''t that great right now, we really need to unite regional advantages and form amunity of shared interests.] [You should know that in the novel, it''s the Yuan King, from Yuan Mu Country, who destroys Jing Country.] [To attack Jing Country from their side, they need to pass through the western side of Chu State and the southern side of Sheng Country!] Xiao Yunzhou inwardly cursed. Recently, various aspects of Jing Country''s national power had been developing quite well. He had almost forgotten about this catastrophic event. It wasn''t his fault; ording to his daughter''s celestial guidance, this would happen three years from now. He had already been intensifying the training of his soldiers recently. But Xiao Yunzhou hadn''t expected that in the future, three years from now, the Yuan King would join forces with Chu State and Sheng Country to attack Jing Country! If so... Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes, looking at Princess Yunwu before him. "Brother Yun, to be honest, I''m not some great phnthropist," he said. "I just believe that in this world, the strong joining forces is better than standing alone." "I don''t want a group of people in this world to live in misery." "Only when all citizens have money will my family''s business grow bigger, and the people depending on my family will be increasingly prosperous." Xiao Yunzhou looked at Princess Yunwu with a sincere expression. Most importantly, he wanted to eliminate any possibility of Yuan Mu Country passing through Chu State! If Chu State and his Jing Country were to form an alliance, they could turn the tables on Yuan Mu Country! At this moment, Xiao Yunzhou was extremely eager to form an alliance with Yunwu, "I have my own goals as well." "Of course," Xiao Yunzhou nced at her, "It''s true that I respect women, and I truly believe that some women are superior to men in this world." The shock Princess Yunwu felt internally was no less than Xiao Yunzhou''s. She had always hesitated to take action, not only because she knew her father and the court officials would certainly oppose it, but also because of another concern. She worried that if she seeded in taking the throne, neighboring countries would look down on her as a female emperor, and by extension, look down on Chu State. If that were the case, all her efforts would have been in vain. But now, Yunwu discovered that she seemed to have already gained the support of an emperor from a neighboring country! At the very least, Jing Country wouldn''t look down on her as a female emperor! "Is that true, Brother Xiao?" Yunwu''s eyes flickered, and she finally closed them, "Actually, I have a secret to tell you." She gave a look to her attendants on both sides, signaling them to clear the area, then lowered her voice so only Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang could hear. "The truth is, I''m not a merchant from Chu State." "I am the eldest princess of Chu State, Yunwu." "Your Majesty of Jing Country, Consort Liu, it''s a pleasure to meet you." Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang stared in shock, putting on their best surprised expressions, using all their acting skills! In fact, they had already known the princess''s identity from their little princess''s inner voice. It was also normal for Yunwu to guess their identities; if she couldn''t, they would have doubted her ability to be the next ruler of Chu State. "I never expected..." Xiao Yunzhou struggled to maintain his act. Liu Chaniang also followed suit, opening her mouth in surprise and nodding. Seeing their reactions, Princess Yunwu''s gaze held a hint of pride and also some emotion. They hadn''t known her identity, which proved that Xiao Yunzhou''s words earlier were sincere, without any intention of deliberately cultivating a rtionship with her. "Brother Xiao, if what you just said is true..." Princess Yunwu lowered her voice, looking towards the Chu State across the river. "The Chu State is willing to be an ally of Jing Country." "In the future, we will prioritize providing Jing Country with iron ore and other resources from our Chu territory." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes flickered. [The Chu State is rich in iron. Oh my, could the "Firearms and Musket Development" skill I acquiredst time be put to use soon?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but grin. [With arge number of muskets, our Jing Country''s military power will surely advance by leaps and bounds!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up, and he immediately nodded to Princess Yunwu, "We will support you with all our might!" "Shall we go to the hot pot restaurant and find a private room to discuss the details?" Chapter 188 Inside a private room of a hot pot restaurant, Xiao Yunzhou invited Princess Yun Wu to sit down next to Liu Chaniang. He hadn¡¯t forgotten what his daughter had shared: Princess Yun Wu wished to be close friends with Chaniang.0 Indeed, no sooner had they sat down than their heads were already leaning in together.3 "Chaniang, I am not as good as you. If you had been born in my Chu State''s royal pce, you would be an admirable emperor, I believe," Princess Yun Wu admitted. 0 Liu Chaniang shook her head, "Each person has their own specialty." This was a principle her daughter had taught her.0 "I only know themon Four Books and Five ssics, how to sew, and now, a little bit of medical suturing technique," she modestly confessed.0 "But this suturing technique can only save one or two people, not all the people in the world."0 Liu Chaniang admired the princess¡¯s ambition and courage, "Unlike you, who were trained in the king''s way since childhood, meant to heal all the citizens."0 Yun Wu waved a hand, "If only you and I were born in the same country. Together, we would leave such bothersome men far behind!"1 Xiao. the bothersome man. Yunzhou: "......."1 "Hahaha, oh my, I''m superfluous indeed,"ughed Xiao Yunzhou.0 His daughter, Xiao Chuchu, teased him. "A sister''s alliance indeed leaves no room for men."0 Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched.0 Yet he soonughed it off, reminiscing how he used to be keen on spiritual cultivation and wished nothing more than to delegate all political affairs to his ministers. 3 However, the ministers couldn''t manage, and he had to review reports, didn''t he?0 "Chaniang, if you werepetent enough, I''d let you review the reports instead," Xiao Yunzhou jested, preferring to spend his time ying with his precious daughter.3 Liu Chaniang choked, instantly falling silent.0 "This is how Chuchu inherited herziness, I see," Xiao Yunzhou observed, hiding a smile back. Their lovely daughter taking after him, how delightful!0 "S.O.S. I don''t want to be like my dad. I want to be like my mom so I can be a beauty in the future," Xiao Chuchu pouted in mock disgust.0 Finally, Princess Yun Wu, after sharing plenty with her newly befriended Liu Chaniang, remembered Xiao Yunzhou sitting beside them and turned to look at him.0 She raised her sour plum soup, toasting in his direction, "Since we meet in themon world, let me still address you as Brother Xiao."1 "Brother Xiao and Chaniang, your willingness to assist me with the power of Jing Country brings me great joy," she appreciated.0 "However, the situation isplex."1 "Presently, my younger brother, who is the crown prince, five years my junior, not only indulges in disgraceful customs but is also ignorant. My mother, however, protects him," Yun Wu confessed frustratingly.0 "Even if I wished to expose his misdeeds to my father or use him of knowingly condoning his associates'' wicked deeds, my mother would obstruct me."2 Yun Wu sighed, "My mother is aware of all his misdeeds, but since she failed to discipline him, she began to protect him from our father''s discovery instead."3 "Additionally, my mother seems to have spected about my ambition in the past two years, suspecting my dissatisfaction with the crown prince," Yun Wu drank her sour plum soup in irritation. "Two years ago, she forbade me from entering the pce at will so that I couldn''t lodge anyints to our father!"0 The sour and sweet iced vour cooled down her previously heated eyes, the irritation in her heart subsided slightly.0 "My mother has many informants in the circle of my younger brother, the crown prince, and also infiltrated my Princess''s Pce with spies."1 ¡°Now, I can¡¯t keep track of my younger brother, the Crown Prince''s everyday life. The moment I step into the pce, I''m caught by my mother''s men and taken straight to her. Anytime I want to see my father, the Emperor, I¡¯m apanied by her men.¡±0 Liu Chaniang heard this with great heartache.0 Being a woman herself, she was never treated like this in her own family.0 As a mother, she would never shield Xiao Chuchu and treat Yun Wu like this!3 Liu Chaniang could barely imagine, whether for herself or for Chuchu, being in Princess Yun Wu¡¯s position were unbearably bleak.1 ¡°She''s being watched by her own mother, jeez!¡±0 Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but feel sympathetic toward Princess Yun Wu.2 Xiao Yunzhou hissed, ¡°So, the main problem now is, one, you cannot easily meet your foolish¡­ ahem, your father who is in the dark.¡±0 ¡°And two, even if you wanted to expose the wicked deeds of the Crown Prince, you have no evidence in your hands?¡±0 Princess Yun Wu frowned deeply, ¡°Yes, all the things I spotted years ago have been covered up by my mother. The knowledgeable pce maids have been executed.¡±0 Xiao Yunzhou squinted.0 Typical, if the chosen Crown Prince was messing around in bed with a eunuch!0 He would likely go mad as well.0 Such a scandal must surely not be publicized!0 Xiao Yunzhou pondered, ¡°So now, our best approach is to gather evidence. Since all the old ones are gone, let''s gather new ones.¡±0 Princess Yun Wu shook her head, ¡°The Crown Prince is under heavy security, and my mother knows about his ndestine, extremely improper behavior, so in recent years, the pce maids sent to the Crown Prince are all people whom my mother trusts. They are very hard to buy over.¡±3 ¡°I also can''t get any information.¡±0 Xiao Yunzhou frowned, all in all, the King of Chu State had been foolish!1 The old King of Chu State, ever diligent and focused on state affairs, didn''t pay much attention to his Crown Prince.0 He entrusted the responsibility of the harem to the Queen and the Crown Prince to the Grand Tutor.0 Who knew that the Crown Prince had major issues, and no one dared to tell the King of Chu State.0 Those who dared to mention it didn''t have any evidence!0 Xiao Yunzhou felt like this was a deadlock!3 The King of Chu State was stubborn and defiant, even with Princess Yun Wu, he would not believe anything without evidence.0 Xiao Yunzhou had a wily idea, ¡°You could spread rumors about the Crown Prince''s debauchery throughout Chu State, let your father investigate it himself¡ª¡±0 ¡°That''s no use,¡± Yun Wu shook her head, ¡°As soon as such rumors emerge, my mother will take action right away.¡±0 ¡°She would remove all the eunuchs around the Crown Prince.¡±0 ¡°Then let my younger brother err on the safe side for six months, a year, until my father no longer suspects.¡±0 Princess Yun Wu clenched her teeth, ¡°I will intensify the investigation on the Crown Prince''s affairs, if I can continuously track my younger brother''s movements¡ª¡±0 Xiao Yunzhou nodded.0 But after nodding a couple of times, Xiao Yunzhou suddenly pped his thigh.0 Ah, why would he need any undercover agents?0 For constant tracking of the Crown Prince of Chu State, his fairy reincarnated daughter might be able to help!0 That thing¡­ live broadcast?2 Xiao Yunzhou instantly looked eagerly towards the baby carriage containing Chuchu.1 ¡°Princess Yun Wu, if you wish to know the movements inside the Crown Prince''s house, why not pray to Heaven?¡±0 Yun Wu didn''t believe in ghosts or gods and took it lightly with a smirk.0 Xiao Yunzhou immediately put on a stern face, ¡°You shouldn''t be like this, disrespecting the immortals.¡±0 Yun Wu: ¡°¡­¡­¡±0 She remembered her father mentioning that Emperor Jing had a passion for Taoism.0 She hadn''t expected, however, that he would be so... spiritually inclined.0 After a moment''s reflection, she chose to respect Emperor Jing''s preferences. Doing her best to y along, she closed her eyes and reluctantly replied.0 Finally satisfied, Xiao Yunzhou looked expectantly at his little fairy, Xiao Chuchu.0 As expected, Xiao Chuchu made a gesture of exasperation with her hand, saying, "Oh dear, my father is so superstitious."0 "Why pray to God when he could ask me!"0 "Now that I''m near the Chu State, and have the favor of Princess Yun Wu, the system told me I can ess the live feed from the pce of the Chu State for just 100 points! That''s so much cheaper than when I was in the Jing Country, where it cost me 10,000 points!"3 "Wait a minute, let me see what the Crown Prince of Chu State is up to."3 "Oh my God!"3 Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened in an instant.2 "What kind of explicit scene is this?! Good heavens, the two men in the scene are surprisingly handsome, and one of them even has a toned physique. Oh my, they''re embracing each other, ha, he''s taking off his trousers¡­"0 "My gosh, is this truly worth my 100 points?"0 Xiao Chuchu was so excited that her little face turned red.0 Xiao Yunzhou was so indignant, he nearly thumped the table in rage.0 How dare, under broad daylight, the Crown Prince of Chu State indulge in such depravity, sullying his little girl''s eyes!0 "Well, look at this, the Prince has taken some kind of drug. Under his bed, there''s a hiddenpartment. Is that an antique version of Viagra?"0 The evidence!1 Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes shed, and he quickly covered his daughter''s eyes so she couldn''t continue watching that scene.0 In a sh, he turned to Princess Yun Wu and grandly said, 0 "May I enlighten the princess, my Jing Country has a seer who is quite adept at divination."0 "Seeing as you havee in utmost sincerity, allow me to consult him on your behalf after the duration of an incense stick."0 "???"0 Chapter 189 [Oh my, the Crown Prince''s time was quite short, was it over already?] Xiao Chuchu finally managed to break free from Xiao Yunzhou''s grasp and covered her eyes as she looked. [Did it evenst half an incense stick? The Crown Prince isn''t much of a top, is he?] [Oh boy, they''re getting all cozy now. Goodness, this fair-faced eunuch is a bold one, he''s starting topete for favor.] [Someone needs to make a schedule for the Crown Prince!] Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat softly, secretly pricking up his ears. "Brother Xiao, what master fortune-teller are you talking about?" Princess Yunwu raised an eyebrow. Xiao Yunzhou almost made a shushing gesture at her but managed to hold back. Just as he was about to speak, Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts indeed moved on to even more explosive matters! [This eunuch is acting coy with the Crown Prince. My goodness, he says once every four days is too infrequent for him.] [He says he''s lonely in bed every afternoon, and wishes the Crown Prince would keep himpany daily, instead of spending time with Mr. Qiu tomorrow, Mr. Liu the day after, and others on subsequent days...] [Oh my! The Crown Prince has four partners, taking turns daily without a break?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but admire the Crown Prince''s stamina. [No wonder he needs to take supplements. How could he keep up otherwise?] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. His daughter''s thoughts were so vulgar... [Oh! So the Crown Prince follows a four-on, three-off schedule!] [Every seven days, he spends one day copying scriptures and doesn''t ''drive'', another day he meets with the Grand Tutor and can''t ''drive'' for fear of being caught, and on another day he has lunch with the King of Chu and doesn''t ''drive'' either.] [I see,] Xiao Chuchu, secretly watching the live broadcast of the Crown Prince of Chu''s intimate moments with the little eunuch, quickly figured out the Crown Prince''s regr ''routine''. [Who needs spies or evidence now?] [The Crown Prince is more punctual than a rooster at dawn~] [Four times every seven days, always after lunch.] [Oh my, the Crown Prince has rested and is ready for round two?] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but cover her eyes. [Heavens, he opened another secretpartment behind the painting on the bedroom wall. More ''aids''? Oh no, he''s using a toy to...] "Cough, cough, cough¡ª" Xiao Yunzhou nearly spat out his tea. [Damn, my eyes... Thank goodness the system blurred it out in time.] [Oh no, I hope my livestream doesn''t get shut down!] Xiao Chuchu didn''t dare to keep watching. It wasn''t until an incense stickter that she noticed the Crown Prince of Chu had fallen asleep, panting heavily, and the eunuch had cleaned up everything and left. [Even the Crown Prince of Chu has his male pride!] [No matter what, he has to tough it out for half an hour! He''d be too embarrassed if it didn''tst at least one incense stick!] Xiao Yunzhou held his head in his hands. This information about the Crown Prince was indeed detailed! [Just now, that pretty eunuch also advised the Crown Prince to suggest to the King of Chu that our Jing Country''s special gathering should be pushed back 500 paces!] [And to decree that all Chu people are forbidden from sneaking over to participate, or they''ll be imprisoned if caught!] [Well, well, isn''t he quite the warmonger?] Xiao Chuchu caught this crucial bit of information before it ended. The Crown Prince and the eunuch had both started their afternoon nap. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes wereplex and cold. This Crown Prince of Chu must absolutely not ascend to the throne! Otherwise, how would he handle his precious daughter secretly watching these improper scenes of the Crown Prince of Chu in her free time? This fool would corrupt his darling daughter! Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and quickly stood up. Facing a bewildered Princess Yunwu, he said, "You rest here for a moment. I''m going to consult the master for a divination." Princess Yunwu''s mouth twitched. She didn''t believe in the supernatural at all. In the past, she had prayed countless times before Buddha, hoping her younger brother, the Crown Prince, would have an epiphany. If only he would be more diligent and willing to learn about governance, she could turn a blind eye to his preference for men. But praying and worshipping had been useless. Now, Princess Yunwu knew that actions spoke louder than words! However, it took only the time of one incense stick before Xiao Yunzhou returned with three silk pouches. "Princess Yunwu, open these on your way back." "What you wish to know is inside these pouches." "Also, leave behind someone who can contact you. If anything changes, I''ll send my secret guards to inform you," Xiao Yunzhou said. Princess Yunwu was skeptical but looked towards Liu Chaniang. Liu Chaniang, who had heard the girl''s thoughts, had barely managed to suppress her blushing. Now she could only pat Princess Yunwu''s hand and say, "Yunwu, take care and be cautious." Princess Yunwu was reluctant but finally nodded and strode away! There were still many interesting things at Jing Country''s special gathering, but she had no time to linger. She left two guards to collect various novelties, then boarded the carriage back to the capital of Chu with her two children. In the carriage, Yunwu was busyforting her children whom she hadn''t seen for half a day and didn''t have time to open the pouches. She didn''t really believe in these pouches anyway. It wasn''t until she returned to her princess mansion, exchanged a few words with her consort, and after he left, that Yunwu finally washed up,y down, and leisurely opened the pouches. As soon as she opened the first one and saw the note inside, she immediately sat up straight! ¡ªStarting today, for four consecutive days, at noon, four-on, three-off! ¡ªLasts for one incense stick, then ends. Yunwu''s eyes widened in an instant. What was this about four-on, three-off? ''Princess Yunwu, if you wish to know the goings-on at the Crown Prince''s Mansion, you might want to pray to the heavens.'' ''What you wish to know is inside these pouches.'' The thing she wanted to know... was none other than the times when her good-for-nothing younger brother, the Crown Prince, was engaging in his debauchery! She wanted her father, the King, to catch him in the act. As Yunwu thought of this, she suddenly stood up, staring in shock at the note in the pouch. At noon, for four consecutive days... Was this about the Crown Prince''s Mansion? Was this about the Crown Prince''s times of debauchery? How did this pouch know? Did Jing Country really have such a skilled fortune-teller? Or did the Emperor of Jing Country have spies even in her Chu royal pce? No, impossible! Even she, a princess, couldn''t monitor the Crown Prince, how could Jing Country? Yunwu''s heart was shaken. If the note was true, Jing Country was not to be underestimated! "Come here!" Yunwu suddenly walked to the center of the room. "Prepare the ink for me!" * [My old man really didn''t waste his time cultivating the Dao, he actually knows a master fortune-teller.] Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue in admiration. They were temporarily staying at the prefect''s mansion. She had just been ced on the bed by Liu Chaniang and started praising her father. [Yunwu is already on her way to the pce, hehe.] [There''s going to be a good show to watch again today. System, give me ess to the live broadcast of the Chu royal pce.] Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but grin. Indeed, his cultivation and meditation hadn''t been in vain. Isn''t this heaven''s gift to him, a little princess bringing good fortune? Chuchu was his prodigy, the fairy of his Jing Country! Xiao Yunzhou felt smug, but then became anxious, knowing his daughter''s inner thoughts today would surely be exciting. "Chaniang, go out and enjoy yourself today. I''m tired, so I''ll stay here with Chuchu and review some documents." Liu Chaniang: "..." He just wanted to stay and watch the show! But just as she was about to object, she heard Xiao Chuchu''s excited inner voice begin. [Oh my, Princess Yunwu hase directly to the door of the imperial study.] [Well, well, let''s see if I can eavesdrop on the King of Chu handling state affairs...] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang instantly forgot to breathe. [Oh no, the system says it involves state secrets from various countries. It''ll cost me 100,000 points for just half an incense stick''s worth of time.] [Damn it! So expensive!] Xiao Chuchu chose to give up and let it go. Xiao Yunzhou sighed with disappointment. But he also breathed a sigh of relief, as this seemed reasonable. Otherwise, if all state secrets were at their fingertips, it would go against the will of heaven, and sooner orter, the little princess''s good fortune would be taken back. As her father, he didn''t want anything that would cost his little princess such a great price! Xiao Yunzhou calmed himself, and soon weed today''s main event. [Oh, Princess Yunwu said she brought a gift from a special gathering for her little brother, the Crown Prince!] [She''s inviting the King of Chu to go with her to see the Crown Prince.] Xiao Yunzhou turned to look at the sun outside. It was almost noon! His eyes suddenly lit up with excitement. Chapter 190 "Your Majesty, Princess Yunwu wanted to give the Crown Prince a surprise, so after her trip, she gifted him a board game called ''Who is the Tycoon''," reported Princess Yunwu''s eunuch attendant to the King of Chu. The King of Chu, now fifty-five years old, had gray hair and beard, but his face still looked quite imposing. Upon hearing this, the King''s expression remained unchanged as he stood up. "I''ve also heard reports that Yunwu went to Xun City for a two-day trip. Was this board game purchased from the Jing Country Fair?" the King asked with a stern expression. Just yesterday, the Crown Prince had presented a memorial advising him that the Jing Country Fair was causing many border residents to cross over into Jing territory. He argued that if this continued, it would be detrimental to Chu State and should be strictly prohibited. The King had agreed yesterday and had already issued an imperial edict: anyone crossing the river without permission would be imprisoned! Unexpectedly, the Princess had gone there a few days ago and even brought something back. The King''s old eyes flickered. Yunwu giving the Crown Prince an item from the fair showed that she thought the goods from Jing Country Fair were indeed quite good. "Yes, the Princess obtained it from the fair. She only learned about Your Majesty''s edict after returning," the Princess''s attendant replied nervously. "The Princess found this game quite enlightening, especially regardingmerce and household management." "The Princess wanted to ask the Crown Prince to try it out, to understand the appeal of Jing Country''s popr items. But she felt the board game was too childish to present to Your Majesty, so she sent it to the Crown Prince instead." Hearing this, the King''s eyes showed a hint of amusement. "She''s actually afraid of something?" The Princess had always been like him, fearless like a newborn calf not afraid of tigers. When her temper red, no one could control her. She even dared to bring in items from the fair he had explicitly forbidden! "Let''s go take a look!" he said. "Prepare the¡ª" The eunuch in the royal study was about to announce, but the King stopped him. "No need to make a fuss," the King said. He thought about how this gift was, after all, a prohibited item from Jing Country that he had forbidden his subjects to purchase. He didn''t want it to bemon knowledge, to avoid the Princess being med for her actions. "Since the Princess wants to give the Crown Prince a surprise, I''ll go there unannounced as well. Don''t alert the Crown Prince." Upon hearing this, a glimmer of joy appeared in the eyes of the attendant sent by the Princess to report. "Prime Minister, since you''re here,e with me to see what kind of entertainment Jing Country has concocted," the King called to Ji Duan, who was in the royal study. Ji Duan''s expression was peculiar. His twin granddaughters had been praising ''Who is the Tycoon'' non-stop since returning from Jing Country, calling it a heavenly delight. Ji Duan had been curious for a long time, but he didn''t dare show it in front of the King. He simply responded respectfully with a "Yes." Soon, the King and Ji Duan were walking leisurely towards the Crown Prince''s pce. Because the King had ordered not to alert the Crown Prince or the pce staff, the guards prevented any pce servants who saw the King approaching from moving about freely to report the news. The King, Prime Minister Ji Duan, and the King''s chief eunuch arrived at the Crown Prince''s pce without any obstacles. However, at the entrance of the Crown Prince''s pce, a small eunuch who was peeping around caught sight of the King''s distinctive royal robe. His face immediately filled with fear, and he turned to flee inside. "Hmm?" The King narrowed his eyes and pointed, "Catch him!" Prime Minister Ji Duan''s heart sank. What was going on with this gate-keeping eunuch of the Crown Prince''s pce, looking so guilty? "No one is allowed to announce my arrival," the King, who had been on the throne for over forty years, immediately sensed something was amiss. He strode into the Crown Prince''s pce. Prime Minister Ji Duan hesitated, wondering if he should follow. But while he was considering, it was already toote. He had only taken a few steps when he heard a man''s pantinging from inside the pce! Outrageous! Prime Minister Ji Duan couldn''t help but look back at the midday sun. In broad daylight, the Crown Prince couldn''t control himself? Ji Duan''s mouth twitched, but what shocked him even more was yet toe. The King and he had only reached the entrance of the pce, not yet entering the inner bedchambers... How could such sounds already be heard? "Preposterous!" The King''s angry shout came from behind the screen wall. Prime Minister Ji Duan was about to retreat, but when he looked up, he saw a scene that pained his old eyes! On the screen wall at the pce entrance, the Crown Prince, wearing a bright yellow robe, was pressing someone down. Ji Duan''s old face twitched, and he took a step back. Not only in broad daylight but also not in the bedchamber, they hade outside? The Crown Prince... this was too outrageous! But in the next moment, as the two people on the screen wall tumbled down upon hearing the King''s shout, Ji Duan finally saw clearly that the person under the Crown Prince was actually a man. Ji Duan felt dizzy on the spot. The Crown Prince was just with a man...? Is this the future ruler of Chu State? Standing under the afternoon sun, Prime Minister Ji Duan was sweating profusely, his vision blurring. The King was even more furious, his anger uncontroble. "Guards, drag away this filthy thing that has corrupted the Crown Prince and give him two hundredshes!" "Everyone in the Crown Prince''s service, drag them all out and beat them to death!" The handsome eunuch immediately crumbled, "Save me, Your Highness!" The Crown Prince on the ground finally came to his senses, looking at the enraged King in front of him in shock. "Fa-Father, why are you here..." The King usually cherished his time at noon to discuss affairs with important ministers. Hearing the Crown Prince''s words, the King realized this wasn''t just a day or two of debauchery. His anger surged, and he directly closed his eyes and copsed. "Y-Your Majesty¡ª!" [Oh my goodness, the King of Chu fainted from anger.] Xiao Chuchu, nestled in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, was watching the live broadcast while eating cut fruits. Seeing this, she stopped chewing the cucumber in her mouth, shocked. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes gleamed even more brightly. Today is a most auspicious day, suitable for burning incense for thete emperor! He wanted to burn incense for all the ancestors, to tell the old ancestors of Jing Country this tremendously good news! [The King of Chu has been revived. Prime Minister Ji Duan told the royal physician not to spread the news of the King''s anger-induced copse, but to say it was heatstroke from staying in the sun too long.] [It''s only the third month of spring, where''s the heating from?] Xiao Chuchu shook her head, clicking her tongue. [Princess Yunwu was scolded by the Empress of Chu, who used her of deliberately framing the Crown Prince by presenting prohibited items from Jing Country, causing the King to copse. The Empress dered her crimes unforgivable and ordered her confined to the Princess''s Pce, with guards posted to ensure she never steps out of the pce again!] [The King of Chu didn''t even say anything, how infuriating!] Xiao Chuchu watched, feeling angry. Xiao Yunzhou was so immersed that he stood up and paced back and forth in the room, agitated. This Empress of Chu is truly a scourge, having only the heart to protect her son while disregarding the welfare of the entire country! [Wow, Princess Yunwu has counterattacked! She''s asked Prime Minister Ji Duan to be the judge and questioned whether such a Crown Prince has the ability to bear great responsibilities!] [Well done!] Xiao Yunzhou nervously perked up his ears, listening with rapt attention. Meanwhile, in the royal pce of Chu State shown in the livestream... At this moment, Princess Yunwu''s face was pale as she faced the usations and punishment from the Empress of Chu. Looking at her father, the King, who remained silent on his sickbed, she directly knelt down and kowtowed three times. "The Crown Prince, my younger brother, is ignorant of state affairs and shows no ambition, only knowing how to indulge in pleasures," she said. "When I learned of this, I dared not conceal it!" The Empress of Chu stood up abruptly. "Silence! The entertainment items you sent from Jing Country must have contained forbidden drugs, bewitching the Crown Prince and making him lose his senses!" The Crown Prince of Chu, as if grasping at straws, nodded tearfully, "That''s right, it''s exactly as Mother says!" He pointed at Princess Yunwu, "You''re the one who harmed me! I opened that ''Tycoon'' board game you sent, and then I didn''t know what I was doing anymore!" Princess Yunwu closed her eyes in disappointment. She turned to look at her father, the King, and the Chancellor Ji Duan. "There are secret potions to enhance virility hidden under the Crown Prince''s bed," she said. "Behind the painting by his bedside, there''s a hiddenpartment filled with bedroom toys." "Father, you can send someone to investigate, and you''ll know! How could I possibly be responsible for this? Did I arrange for someone to nt these things?" The Crown Prince of Chu gasped, speechless. After a while, he finally regained his senses, "You... how do you know about this?! Princess Yunwu, did you send people to spy on me!?" What a fool! The King of Chu, the Empress of Chu, and Chancellor Ji Duan all closed their eyes in pain. Chapter 191 "Father Emperor, the essays the Crown Prince of Chu presents to you, and all the advice he gives, are actually written by the four chief eunuchs at his side!" "Are you sure you want to entrust the kingdom of Chu and its people to such a crown prince?!" Yun Wu, having been punished with house arrest, threw caution to the wind before leaving. The King of Chu''s gaze wavered, eventually turning into a heavy sigh. "You may go back now." Yun Wu''s face was filled with disappointment and dejection. "Father Emperor, please go and see the literary gathering in Jing Country." "I truly hope you and..." Yun Wu trailed off, holding back her words. But the King of Chu, lying on his sickbed, raised an eyebrow. Go see the literary gathering in Jing Country? The King of Chu closed his eyes, signaling refusal. Yun Wu turned away in despair! "Father Emperor, my royal sister is falsely using me! You saw it, she''s loyal to Jing!" The Crown Prince of Chu was still shouting. The King of Chu weakly opened his eyes, full of disgust and embarrassment. The Empress of Chu gave her precious son a look, signaling him to be quiet, but it was already toote. The King of Chu let out a light snort, "Send the Crown Prince to the Jade Pavilion Pce to kneel and copy scriptures as punishment. The Empress is confined to her quarters. From this day forward, no one is allowed to enter the Crown Prince''s pce. Anyone who vites this order will be executed!" The Empress of Chu''s face turned pale. The Crown Prince of Chu trembled. After they left, the King of Chu turned to Prime Minister Ji Duan, "Prime Minister, what do you think of the Crown Prince?" The spring warmth was just beginning, but Ji Duan felt a chill down his neck, cold sweat streaming down. What did he think of the Crown Prince? He dared not imagine that the future ruler of the country would be as the princess had described. If state affairs were handed to the Crown Prince, wouldn''t it be the same as handing them to four eunuchs? Throughout history, it was always written that treacherous court eunuchs would ruin the country! By then, even as the Prime Minister, he wouldn''t be able topete with these four eunuchs trusted by the new emperor! They... they would be sleeping in the same bed as the new emperor. They would even be under the new emperor. Prime Minister Ji Duan shuddered at the thought of this scene. What could he think of such a Crown Prince? He thought it was terrible! In any previous dynasty, he would have suggested deposing this Crown Prince and be done with it! But the King of Chu had only this one legitimate son, so how could he evaluate him? Ji Duan took a deep breath, "This old minister believes that this matter still needs to be thoroughly investigated. What the princess said today, this old minister is hearing for the first time." "If what she said is untrue, we must clear the Crown Prince''s name." The King of Chu gave him a long, deep look, understanding that this old fox wouldn''t tolerate any impurities. Given any other choice, he wouldn''t want to support the Crown Prince in the future. The King of Chu let out a long sigh, seeming to age ten years, "Very well, tomorrow when my dizzy spell is better, you shall enter the pce and join me in examining the Crown Prince''s chambers and his studies." Ji Duan remained silent, finally bowing in respect. After years as ruler and minister, they could understand each other''s meaning with just one sentence. [Oh, if they discover that the Crown Prince is really as the princess described, this Prime Minister Ji Duan will probably resign after the Crown Prince ascends to the throne, right?] Watching the live stream, Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help butment while in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms. [After all, ministers who have seen the new emperor''s outrageous behavior would never be able to continue serving in the court.] Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. Ji Duan was the grandfather of those Ji sisters. The characters in the elite album were now connected. [I wonder how tomorrow''s pce search will go, I''m so excited.] [Oh, the King of Chu is resting now, there''s no more drama to watch in the pce. The literary gathering is more fun, I want to go out shopping and eating.] Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile. He quickly got up, cleared his throat lightly towards Liu Chaniang who happened to look over, "Well, Chaniang, I''m not tired anymore." "Shall we go for a walk outside together?" "..." Liu Chaniang was defeated by this man''s mouth! This was simply what her daughter called an Oscar-worthy actor. If Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t at the Oscars, she wouldn''t even watch. "Your Majesty, it''s not suitable to go to the literary gathering today! There''s trouble at the gathering!" Just as Xiao Yunzhou was pushing his daughter''s stroller out the door, pretending to be cool, he was urgently stopped by the Prefect of Xun City. "Hmm?" Xiao Yunzhou frowned, immediately displeased, "What''s going on? Aren''t there constables maintaining order at the gathering?" [With too many people gathered, it''s easy for fights and stampedes to ur!] Xiao Chuchu, listening, also became worried. [Oh no, if something goes wrong at our Jing Country''s first literary gathering, how will we manage in the future?] Xiao Yunzhou nodded inwardly, then put on a stern face for the prefect, "How did I instruct you before?" "Where is the top schr Zheng Qiru?" "Where is the Cavalry General?" "I said earlier that the literary gathering would surely attract crowds ofmoners, so we must pay attention to order and safety." "Eliminate all potential dangers in advance." Xiao Yunzhou''s lecture now was heavily influenced by ''modern'' thinking. The Prefect of Xun City was scolded so badly he couldn''t lift his head, but soon looked at Xiao Yunzhou with admiring eyes. "Your Majesty is right. Fortunately, we followed Your Majesty''s arrangements in advance. Now our literary gathering in Jing territory is safe and sound." "Themotion is on the Chu side across the river." "?" "The Chumoners are causing a disturbance, demanding that the Chu army let them pass. They want toe and enjoy the literary gathering!" "!" An incense stick''s burning timeter, Xiao Yunzhou, disguised as an ordinarymoner, no longer used the stroller but directly carried Xiao Chuchu. He and Liu Chaniang arrived at the riverside of the literary gathering from afar. The two countries were separated by a river. At this moment, both banks of the river were surrounded bymoners from both countries. The King of Chu had decreed thatmoners were not allowed to cross the river, and anyone who attended Jing Country''s literary gathering without permission would be imprisoned! This imperial edict had arrived here yesterday. First, themoners within Chu territory learned about it, and then the Jing Countrymoners who were doing business or sightseeing at the literary gathering also gradually heard about this absurd prohibition from across the river. "Chu still looks down on our Jing Country!" "Not allowing participation in our Jing Country''s literary gathering? Do you think we care whether you Chu people attend or not? Bah, we won''t let you Chu people eat our delicious fried dough sticks!" "Laughable, go back and gnaw on your sweet potatoes! Hey, this skewer I''m holding is made from the choicest cut of pork back raised by our former Jing Country Prime Minister!" "Oh my, it''s perfectly marbled, sizzling with oil, seasoned with strong, fragrant spices. Every bite in my mouth bursts with the essence of spring turning to summer!" "This hotpot is really amazing. Themb that Wu Yun Country sold us because of our good rtions melts like snow in your mouth, tender and soft... You Chu people can''t taste it, you can''t taste it at all!" On this side of the river, the Prefect of Xun City had just said that the Jing territory was orderly and virtuous, but now, his face was pped! On the riverbank, the people of Jing Country were all holding skewers of grilled and fried foods. Some had even hauled their hot pot tables, smoking grills, and deep fryers to the riverside, deliberately taunting the citizens and soldiers of Chu State on the opposite bank who couldn''t cross over. Everyone was fanning the aromatic scents across the river with palm-leaf fans. "Smells so good! Give me ten more skewers of pork belly!" "I want fried cabbage! And fried rice cakes!" "Fried dough sticks and tofu pudding for me!" "Over here at the hot pot, another te ofmb!" "Grilled fish, grilled fish! Make room for my grilled fish. Let''s make those Chu people across the river drool to death!" [!] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice fell silent as she watched in astonishment. Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang were also speechless. Across the river, the people of Chu State were furious, agitated, and their stomachs were growling. "Damn it! I won''te over, but I''ll throw my money across!" "You Jing people, if you''ve got the guts, toss that fried pork belly in your hand over here!" "Let me taste it. If it''s not delicious, I''ll destroy you!" Someone among the Chu people impulsively shouted, and like a spark, it ignited the crowd on the opposite bank. Countless voices from Chu State rose up. "That''s right, we won''te over. If anything''sing over, it''ll be our money!" "If you''re brave enough, throw a hot pot over here!" "Toss us some grilled fish to try!" "How much silver? Hey, you big spender at the game table, do you dare to throw it over, Jing person?" Both sides of the river were in an uproar. Chapter 192 "I''m throwing silver over to you, Jing people! You throw some hotpot back!" "What about the grilled fish?! I''m pelting you with silver!" Ssh, ssh¡ª Skilled throwers from Chu State, separated by a river, kept tossing silver pieces and even silver treasures towards the opposite bank. But even at the river''s narrowest point, one would need to swim across. No matter how strong one''s arm, it was impossible to throw anything to the other side. As a result, countless silver pieces plunged into the river in no time! Wealthy Chu people, cursing from above, continued to throw silver into the river. "Hurry up and send me some skewers!" "It''s your turn now! I dare to send you silver, do you dare to send food over?!" Hearing this, the people of Jing Country on the opposite bank got equally excited. Those holding barbecue skewers and deep-fried snacks, and those fanning themselves while eating hotpot by the shore, all stood up. They raised their fried and grilled skewers, picked upmb rolls from the hotpot, and waved their arms towards Chu State across the river. But in a split second, their expressions changed. They made a feint, swung the grilled meats, fried vegetables, andmb rolls dripping with spicy oil in a circle, and popped them into their own mouths. The Chu people across the river: "???" The Jing people chuckled, "Do you take us for fools? Why would we throw such delicious food into the river instead of eating it ourselves?" "!!!" The Chu people on the other side of the river were furious. The situation on both banks was clearly spiraling out of control, especially on the Chu side, where even the Chu soldiers could barely maintain order. Without further orders, the soldiers and constables couldn''t do much to their own citizens. Even the Chu soldiers guarding the area were somewhat stirred by the atmosphere. "Boss, those Jing people are shameless! I want to taste their food too! If it''s not good, let''s see how they exin their lies!" Before the Chu King issued his edict two days ago, only a few Chu citizens had ventured to Jing Country''s gathering to eat and explore. Crossing mountains and rivers was inconvenient after all. Many Chu people had only smelled the aromas but hadn''t tasted the food. Now, with the Jing people''s provocation, they simply couldn''t contain themselves anymore. [The sound of monkeys crying on both banks is incessant. Who could have imagined that the exchange between our two countries would be so lively~] Xiao Chuchu had never seen such a heated scene even in modern times. Xiao Yunzhou didn''t know whether tough or cry; he too had his eyes opened today. "Old Fu, when you used to teach me, you said that it''s better to channel than to block. I didn''t quite understand it then," Xiao Yunzhou said, looking back at Chancellor Fu Cha with emotion. Chancellor Fu Cha, also in in clothes, twitched his mouth. Old Fu?! The Emperor was getting more and more casual! But hearing Xiao Yunzhou''s following words, Chancellor Fu Cha''s eyes widened in surprise. "Old Fu, seeing the Chu people like this today, I finally understand firsthand what it means to channel rather than block." "Themon people and all things in the world are like rivers. If they''re blocked for years, sooner orter, great chaos will ensue," Xiao Yunzhou mused, looking at the opposite bank. Chancellor Fu Cha couldn''t help but show an expression of approval. "Your High... ahem, young master, you''ve truly grown up." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. What kind of talk was that? He had grown up long ago! Just as they were chatting, many Chu boats arrived from upstream to this downstream section. "Sir, we''ve always been in the ferry business here!" a ferryman leaning on his pole said, "We have no intention of going to the market in Jing Country!" These boatmen had clearly sniffed out an opportunity to make money and had all rushed downstream! "That''s right, we''re just doing our usual ferry and cargo transport business. Surely this can''t be considered defying the royal edict? Otherwise, will the governmentpensate us for today''s losses?" The Chu soldiers and constables couldn''t argue with that! The Chu boatmen immediately steered their boats to the shore,ing to a near stop, and looked towards the Chu people. "What do you want? Tell us!" "Grilled fish, skewers, hotpot!" "If you want it, pay up quickly!" "We don''t know how much it''ll cost, so pay a deposit first!" The Chu people on the shore, after a moment of stunned silence, swarmed forward in an instant. Seven or eight money pouches were thrust at the boatmen. The boatmen could barely keep track as they pushed their boats away, heading to the opposite shore! The Chu soldiers were dumbfounded. "This..." "The edict only said we couldn''t go to the gathering. Did we go? No!" The Chu people were on the verge of rebellion. But even though they had paid, they weren''t about to be quiet when facing the Jing people! They shouted across the river, "If it''s not delicious, I''ll have the boatmen bring you dung!" The Jing side was also in an uproar, "Come on, if it''s good, you swim over here and kowtow to me!" "Hey, boatman, take the leftovers from my te back to your Chu people!" "Even our Jing leftovers smell better than your meals!" The Chu people on the other bank were indignant. Chu schrs, rich merchants, and even the children of officials were all provoked into apetitive spirit! Even the Chu soldiers could hardly bear to listen anymore. They had been hesitating whether to stop the boatmen from transporting items from the gathering. Now they decided not to act, turning a blind eye! The Chu soldiers also wanted to see if the Jing food was really that good! With this wavering, the boatmen set off. In no time, under the watchful eyes of the Chu people, these Chu boats docked at the Jing border, as if carrying the hopes of the entire vige! "Great!" "Old Zhou, that''s some nice docking!" "Excellent!" The Chu people on the shore cheered excitedly as they saw the Chu boats sessfully reach the other side, as if it were some great achievement. The boatmen, with their incredibly loud voices, quickly began to trade with the Jing people on the shore. "We want a bit of everything. How much?" Now the Jing people were also fired up, "Good, you''vee at the right time! Let us show you our delicacies." "One taste, and you''ll be begging on your knees for a second!" The Jing people were beside themselves with joy, full of a sense of superiority and pride on their faces. They even started ying the role of tour guides on the spot, "Grilled pork belly, two skewers for one copper coin." "Deep-fried cabbage, ten skewers for one copper coin." "!" "!!!" The Chu people on the opposite bank, and even the Chu boatmen on the boats, were stunned. So cheap? "Milk tea, five copper coins a cup! Buy ten get one free. If you Chu people want to drink, why not team up?" "Grilled fish grand opening special! For the first ten days, spend 300 coins and get 30 coins back!" "The hotpot pot is for rent, return itter. Thismb roll and noodlebo meal, originally 599 coins, if you bring your wife and daughters to eat, it''s only 399~" "!" It''s not expensive at all. Really not expensive. The Chu people on the opposite bank found it all very novel. How could there be so many interesting interactions? Buy ten get one free! Spend 300 get 30 back! Bring women and save 200 coins? Not only did the food from Jing Country smell good, but it also felt like they were getting a great bargain! Originally, they thought Jing Country would raise prices and make a big profit from them. Unexpectedly, the cost of food was just a few coins here and there. It waspletely different from the expensive meals they usually had, costing several taels of silver! The Chu people suddenly felt a bit embarrassed. Were the Jing people across the river, who they thought had stiff upper lips and wanted to teach them a lesson, actually quite kind-hearted? Jing and Chu had never gotten along. Chu State even looked down on Jing Country for its poverty. But now, they discovered that the Jing people were so genuine! They were all honest folks! The Chu people felt ashamed of their earlier impolite shouting. [Oh my, I just thought of something,] Xiao Chuchu narrowed her eyes. [The Chu King only forbade Chu people from crossing the river. He didn''t say anything about us Jing people going onto the river, did he?] [We could send our barbecue and fried skewer vendors onto boats and do business right on the river! We won''t even go ashore!] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened, and he immediately turned to whisper in Wei Zheng''s ear. Before long, several Chu boats returned fully loaded, much to the anticipation of the Chu people. Not only were there neatly arranged cups of milk tea, but there were also barbecue and fried skewer chefs! Even entire hot pot tables... Instantly, the Chu people''s eyes lit up. In no time, skewers of grilled pork belly and fried cabbage were passed to the first batch of people by the riverside. Taking a bite, the Chu people''s expressions becameplex. Although each wooden skewer only had a few thin slices of cabbage, The extreme cheapness of ten skewers for one coin, and the joy of having multiple skewers ¨C who could understand? They tasted the youtiao andmb rolls from the hot pot, dipped in sesame oil. "!" "!!" "The Jing people truly do not deceive us!" "Such tender meat must only exist in heaven!" Chapter 193 As youtiao (Chinese fried dough sticks), salted egg yolk zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), tofu pudding, and spicy-sour noodles were unloaded from boats and lined up on the shore, the people of Chu State gathered there like hungry baby birds waiting to be fed.0 The previously rowdy Chu people on the shore had somehow managed to bring tables and chairs from somewhere, arranging them of their own ord.0 Many tea shops and cooks from Chu State had arrived as well!0 They weren''t there for anything else but to prepare hot dishes!0 "This batch of tofu pudding has cooled down a bit... Quick, heat it up!"0 "I''m thirsty. Has the milk tea arrived yet? Give me a bowl of tea, please..."0 "We''re running out of tables and chairs. Where can we get more?"0 "Are there none left in the temple? Damn it, I remember there''s a private school nearby that has some!"3 The Chu people organized themselves spontaneously, as if they too were hosting their own elegant gathering, full of life and color.0 Many educated individuals who could do arithmetic even stepped forward, voluntarily taking on the role of ountants, responsible for collecting money and distributing food uniformly.0 [Tsk tsk, when there''s food involved, our initiative is truly unparalleled~]1 Xiao Chuchu observed with amusement.0 [If you didn''t know better, you''d think Chu State was hosting their own elegant gathering.]0 [How amusing.]1 Xiao Yunzhou also wore a smile, recognizing this as what his fairy daughter called the influence of a great nation.0 Look at how Jing Country was influencing Chu State!3 In the future, as long as Jing Country continued to prosper, it would influence neighboring countries in various aspects!2 Xiao Yunzhou felt that although the road ahead was long, there was a clear goal in sight.3 He truly didn''t want to meet the tragic end his fairy daughter had foreseen, where he would only live for three years.0 He wanted to see the day when Jing Country became the most powerful nation!0 Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath and spoke to the prefect waiting for orders beside him, "After this round of eating is done, bring out the board games."1 "And the surgical suturing techniques."1 "The silk reeling machines."0 "Have people bring over whole pigs!"0 "And the marketable hot pot base."0 Sure enough, before he had finished giving instructions, the people on the Chu side of the river were already savoring the experience and developing new desires.0 "Jing Country isn''t hosting the elegant gathering anymore, what should we do? That pork belly was so delicious..."0 "Hot pot, who would have thought it could be so fragrant?"3 The next day, trading boats in the middle of the river were loaded with live piglets, ready for sale.0 Pig farmers from around Xun City in Jing Country had alle, "Males and females, little piglets, just like the ones used for roast meat!"0 "All sows selected ording to regtions, piglets raised with careful prenatal and perinatal care!"0 "Bred by boars tended to by Jing Country''s former Prime Minister~"1 The Chu people went from eating roast meat and skewers to buying Jing Country pigs!3 Jing Country pigs just tasted better!0 The Chu people''s impression of Jing Country greatly improved, "Who said Jing Country was stupid? They''re quite clever. These pigs really do have vorful and rich meat!"3 "The roast duck is excellent too. Do you have live meat ducks for sale? I''m about to host a birthday banquet for my grandmother!"0 [Hmm, I knew it,] Xiao Chuchu felt gratified seeing this scene, [We''re not just doing food service, we''re also going to run thergest pig and meat duck farms with quality assurance!]2 [If all countries buy from our Jing Country, how could we ever be short on silver?]2 Listening to his daughter''s inner thoughts, Xiao Yunzhou also felt a surge of excitement.0 He was now experiencing the benefits of being a producer country!0 This was the foreign trade his daughter''s inner voice often spoke about!0 The scene continued to unfold as wealthy merchants'' board games were loaded onto boats and sold box by box to the Chu people.0 By that afternoon, the top schr Zheng Qiru and Minister of Works Liu Runnian had boarded the boats with new foot-powered silk reeling machines.0 As they passed along the river, they exined and demonstrated the benefits of these new foot-powered silk reeling and weaving machines.0 The women and textile merchants of Chu State stared wide-eyed, "How much are these for sale?"0 This caught their attention even more than the fresh food, seeming quite important to them.0 Meanwhile, on the shore, the Chu schrs were shocked to see Zheng Qiru, the new top schr of Jing Country.0 "His face is disfigured?"0 "And he can still be admitted to Jing Country''s Hanlin Academy as the top schr?"0 "He can evene to our Chu territory to showcase Jing Country''s goods? Doesn''t the Jing emperor find his ugly appearance embarrassing?"0 The Chu schrs were all astonished. Among them were some with unremarkable appearances or even leg disabilities, whose gazes couldn''t move away from the scar on Zheng Qiru''s forehead.3 Zheng Qiru, dressed in his top schr''s attire, looked at these shocked Chu schrs with determined eyes and spoke in a clear voice, "Our Jing Country''s emperor uses talent regardless of appearance. As long as one can get things done, benefit the people, and has ability, even an ugly person like me is willing to be used by the emperor. Even women are willing to be employed!"0 "!!!"0 The Chu people on the opposite shore, still eating, had their mouths hanging open in surprise.0 "Is it true?"0 "Really?"0 Those schrs with unremarkable appearances all had moisture in their eyes.0 "The Jing emperor is really like this?"3 Zheng Qiru nodded, "Jing Country opens its doors to all talented and virtuous individuals. We don''t like war; we only wish for all people under heaven to prosper together!"3 [Oh, that rhetoric has a bit of modern thinking~]0 Even Xiao Chuchu admired Zheng Qiru.0 Hearing his daughter''s inner voice, Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly.0 Before setting out, he had specially summoned Zheng Qiru to the pce for training!0 [This time, Zheng Qiru is Jing Country''s publicity ambassador for weing talent!] Xiao Chuchu chuckled.3 Publicity ambassador?0 Xiao Yunzhou nodded with satisfaction, thinking the name was good and fitting.0 On the Chu side, indeed many schrs were moved by Zheng Qiru''s appearance.0 In the world, there were actually quite a few people with less handsome features, insufficient stature, or congenital or acquired leg injuries.0 However, in the past, with these ws, they could never be highly valued by the court.3 But now...0 Zheng Qiru was telling them, in front of them, that it was possible!1 As long as they were willing to study and work hard!0 Since Jing Country didn''t like fighting and wouldn''t go to war with Chu State, only wishing for all people to prosper, then¡ª0 "I... I have a sister who married into Jing Country, so I guess I''m half Jing..." Someone in the crowd suddenly called out.0 In an instant, this shout was like a boiling stone thrown into the river, stirring up a thousand waves.0 "Hey, my mother''s sister''s son''s neighbor''s husband went to Jing Country to do business, so I guess I''m... a little bit Jing too?"0 "My name includes the character for ''Jing'', to be honest..."0 Some people joked, while others had a glimmer in their eyes, silently looking towards the Jing Country city across the river, with a hint of expectation!0 [Holy crap, the system says we''ve collected two elite individuals!]0 Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened.0 Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but hold his breath, looking towards the opposite shore, utterly amazed.2 On the other side of the river, the Chu people were packed so tightly that individual faces could barely be distinguished.1 But surprisingly, there were two elite individuals inside who, just moments ago, had been won over by Zheng Qiru''s persuasive¡ªahem, impassioned¡ªspeech?0 Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed and pricked up his ears, only to hear Xiao Chuchu''s voice next.0 [Liu Han, Intelligence 95, possesses a photographic memory. However, because his mother was a renowned courtesan in Jing Country, he is viewed as the most lowly illegitimate child in the family. Born with ame foot, he is unable to take the imperial examinations.]0 [Cheng Xing, Intelligence 91... At the age of four, he was blinded in one eye by a bear attack, resulting in a fierce appearance. He is unable to take the imperial examinations.]3 Chapter 194 Xiao Yunzhou never imagined that hosting a market fair could actually attract talented individuals from other countries.0 These were two elites recognized by the Immortal Realm, with intellects surpassing even his own as emperor!0 Without any special recruitment efforts, simply by hosting an elegant gathering, people hade.0 Those not on the Immortal Realm''s map were attracted to Jing Country, and there were likely many more who wanted to develop in Jing Country.0 Although Xiao Yunzhou''s purpose for this event was indeed to promote Jing Country''s unique characteristics, he hadn''t expected such remarkable results.1 "Old Fu, we need to organize these special gatherings in our other border regions too, with Zhou Kingdom, Mu Kingdom, and the rest. Make sure they''re done well!" Xiao Yunzhou instructed.0 Chancellor Fu Cha nodded solemnly, his gaze serious. He too had realized that today''s Jing-Chu atmosphere was greatly beneficial to Jing Country.0 "Your Highness is wise," Chancellor Fu Cha remarked, realizing that Zheng Qiru''s appointment as the top schr had been a good choice.0 Zheng Qiru was not only talented and capable, but now appeared to be a role model for how Jing Country treated its skilled individuals. It was truly a brilliant appointment!0 As Xiao Yunzhou instructed the prefect to prepare more unique items for disy, there was also movement within the Chu State pce.1 ...0 After resting for a night, the King of Chu felt his dizziness had improved significantly. He forced himself to rally and summoned Chancellor Ji Duan to the pce to join him in searching and interrogating the Crown Prince.0 "Your Majesty, there is indeed a hiddenpartment under the Crown Prince''s bed!"2 The King of Chu swayed slightly. "What''s inside?"0 Ji Duan lowered his head and said through gritted teeth, "...Pills."0 Undoubtedly the aphrodisiacs the Princess had mentioned the Crown Prince used!0 The King of Chu''s face darkened. He stepped onto the Crown Prince''s bed and personally pulled down thendscape painting on the wall. Sure enough, as the Princess had said, there was also a hiddenpartment in the wall!2 Chancellor Ji Duan''s old face twitched.1 Because this involved the Crown Prince''s dirty affairs, and before deciding to depose him, it wasn''t appropriate to let this scandal spread outside. They still needed to protect the Crown Prince''s reputation. So today, the King of Chu had only called Chancellor Ji Duan and the Crown Prince''s tutor, Grand Preceptor Zhu, to gather evidence!0 Seeing this, the Crown Prince''s tutor had already fallen to his knees, his face ashen. "Your Majesty, I have failed in my duty as a teacher. Please punish me!"0 The King of Chu closed his eyes. "When a child is not taught, it is the father''s fault."0 As he spoke, he swiftly opened the hiddenpartment behind the painting, revealing jade implements used for carnal pleasures.1 The King of Chu''s face flushed red with anger as he furiously smashed the objects to the ground!0 "I have never been stingy in selecting consorts for him! How many beauties have I been willing to give him! Yet he''s still so addicted to such filthy objects, unable to control himself!!"0 Chancellor Ji Duan and the Crown Prince''s tutor both felt overwhelmed.0 "Bring the Crown Prince to me. Chancellor, test him!"0 "I want to see if his mind has grown as depraved as his behavior!"0 The Crown Prince''s tutor felt a glimmer of hope, and Chancellor Ji Duan harbored a desperate wish.0 Even if the Crown Prince''s behavior was improper, as long as his mind was still sharp, he could potentially be a good emperor, a wise ruler in the future. To be honest, they as ministers could turn a blind eye to the future emperor''s special preferences.0 But... soon, the terrified Crown Prince of Chupletely exposed his true nature.0 The four close eunuchs by the Crown Prince''s side were imprisoned, depriving him of his usual cheating assistance.0 He knew nothing when questioned!0 "Father, please give me more time!" the Crown Prince of Chu wept, clinging to the King of Chu''s knees. "I''m shocked right now, frightened by my sister! I can''t think of how to answer these questions at the moment!"0 The King of Chu trembled with rage, while Chancellor Ji Duan and the Crown Prince''s tutor hunched their shoulders in painful dismay.0 With the future emperor in this state, Chu State would have to depose him!0 But if they deposed the Crown Prince, where would they find another virtuous candidate to enthrone? The King of Chu had only one biological son!0 Chancellor Ji Duan was already preparing to retire to his hometown, before the Crown Prince could ascend to the throne.0 But as he was thinking this, the King of Chu narrowed his eyes at his trusted eunuch, "Go and summon Princess Yunwu to the pce."1 Chancellor Ji Duan''s expression froze in surprise.3 *0 When Princess Yunwu received the news from the pce, her expression of shock was no less than that of her husband beside her.0 She was truly frightened.0 Even as she entered the pce at the royalmand, Yunwu hadn''t fully processed her inner emotions¡ªhow had everything in the secret message from Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country, turned out to be true!1 "Yunwu, I have always doted on you, giving you personal guards and attendants, but I didn''t give you these things so you could spy on the pce!" The King of Chu, knowing the Crown Prince was useless and depraved, had no outlet for his fury.0 Now, after a moment''s thought, he had found fault with Princess Yunwu, and turned to look at his most beloved daughter, suddenly exploding with anger! "As a princess, you dare to spy on the Crown Prince''s pce! If you treat your own brother like this, will there be a day when you spy on me, your father and emperor!?"0 "Yunwu, I''ve spoiled you too much! Spoiled you to the point ofwlessness!" The King of Chu was both frightened and enraged.0 He, as emperor, didn''t know the private secrets hidden in the Crown Prince''s bed.2 Yet his daughter, who had been married off and living outside the pce for five or six years, knew about it. The Princess''s reach into the pce was far too long!0 Once a ruler''s suspicion is aroused, it can no longer be suppressed.0 The King of Chu, feeling both ashamed and utterly disappointed, said, "I have truly failed in raising both my son and daughter. Both of you have broken my heart! Father has loved you so much, yet in return, you spy on him. I am truly disheartened!"0 "Hand over all your spies directly. This time, I''ll pretend nothing happened, but if you dare to do it again in the future¡ª"1 The King of Chu broke off mid-sentence, looking down at Princess Yunwu, only to see her expression also filled with grievance and shock.0 "Father, I have no spies."0 "Nonsense. At this point, when your father isn''t pursuing the matter further, you still want to lie to me? Then how did you know so much about the Crown Prince''s affairs?"0 Princess Yunwu bit her lip and raised her head, lowering her voice.0 "Father, it was divined by a profound Taoist from Jing Country. Emperor Xiao Yunzhou of Jing Country gave it to me!"2 "?"0 "!"0 The King of Chu stared in disbelief.0 It wasn''t the Princess spying on the pce, but Jing Country''s spies?0 Impossible!0 Jing Country had been unremarkable since the previous generation. Moreover, how could this generation''s Xiao Yunzhou, who loved cultivating the Tao, have the ability to send spies to infiltrate his Chu State pce?0 But... wait a minute?!0 Xiao Yunzhou loved cultivating the Tao...?1 The King of Chu grimaced, feeling a twinge in his teeth. This Xiao Yunzhou loved cultivating the Tao, so he had connections with mystical experts?0 Was it true or false?0 "What else did he say? What else did that Jing Country divination master say?"1 Princess Yunwu blushed. "In the secret message he gave me, besides writing about my brother the Crown Prince working four days and resting three, he also said that I... would achieve great things, surpassing men, and gather all of Chu''s dragon energy unto myself!"0 "..."1 The King of Chu gave Princess Yunwu a long, deep look.0 However, Yun Wu quickly pulled out three silk pouches containing notes from her sleeve and respectfully handed them to the King of Chu, saying, "I dare not deceive you, Father."0 The King of Chu took them, nced at them with suspicion, and was immediately stunned.0 It really was the handwriting of that fool from the Xiao family, Xiao Yunzhou!0 The King of Chu frowned, his heart pounding. As he looked at Yun Wu again, a sudden thought struck him.0 He only had one son and one daughter of his own blood. The Crown Prince of Chu was no longer a viable option, so indeed, Yun Wu now possessed the strongest royal aura!0 He had controlled the Chu State for over thirty years, governing it with great care and dedication. How could he, after his death, hand over the throne to someone else''s offspring?0 Let others reap the benefits of his hard work? Did they take him for a fool?0 Well... these notes weren''t wrong. Yun Wu truly did have the most potent royal aura.1 The King of Chu looked at Yun Wu again and took a deep breath. "I wish to meet that fortune-telling master from Jing Country face to face!"0 *0 [Oh my, the King of Chu most likely wants to inquire about the fate of the Chu State. He wants to meet the fortune-telling master that his imperial father has been associating with!]3 Xiao Chuchu, who had just returned from sightseeing and observing themotion in the streets, continued to watch the drama unfold at the prefect''s mansion while mentallymenting.0 But when Xiao Yunzhou heard these words, he nervously stopped picking fish bones out of his daughter''s meal.0 Ahem.0 There was no fortune-telling master at all.0 Jing Country had only one master ¨C his daughter!0 Chapter 195 The King of Chu set out, apanied by his secret guards, Prime Minister Ji Duan, and Princess Yun Wu, heading towards the border between Chu State and Jing Country. Having ruled for many years, the King of Chu faced little opposition within the royal pce and among the civil and military officials of Chu State. Leaving a few ministers of the Imperial Cab behind to handle urgent matters, the King departed with confidence. "Father, it''s right here," Princess Yun Wu led the way, descending a small path from the back of a Chu temple, then traversing through the forest to reach the riverside separating the two countries. As they approached, they could hear the bustling of a crowd. Just as Yun Wu was about to step aside to let the King go first, she froze in surprise. On the opposite bank, the usual site of Jing Country''s refined gatherings was teeming with activity. But on this side, in Chu territory, what was once barrennd now had tables and chairs set up! Around each table sat people from Chu, some holding milk tea or fruit tea, others munching on skewers of grilled or fried foods, chatting away. "..." "!" The King of Chu''s mouth twitched. He had forbidden his people from crossing the river, but the Jing people had brought their food over instead!? That Xiao Yunzhou! He was even wilier than his father! The King of Chu was finally bing wary. No wonder that fellow Sanda had been persuaded by Xiao Yunzhou to form an alliance between the two countries. Even Duoti, the spy he had once heavily bribed, had inexplicably switched sides. "Jing Country..." Prime Minister Ji Duan, catching a whiff of the enticing aromas of roast duck and hotpot, swallowed hard. He wanted to say that Jing Country was adaptable, but seeing the King''s expression, he changed his wording, "The Jing people are crafty." The King nodded, but quickly shook his head, "No, I fear it''s not that the Jing people are crafty, but that Xiao Yunzhou must have a mastermind behind him!" He couldn''t believe that Xiao Yunzhou, a fellow who loved cultivating the Dao, could suddenly be so clever. Jing Country''s cooperation with Wu Yun Country, their recruitment of Duoti and Sanda, and their recent sesses in thwarting Chu State''s ns - there must be a mastermind helping them! It was very likely the mystical expert behind that strategy book! The King of Chu hadn''t believed in ghosts and gods before, but he found it even harder to believe that Xiao Yunzhou had suddenly be so smart. After all, things he couldn''t achieve despite his diligent efforts had been aplished by thiszy meditation enthusiast. The King of Chu would rather believe in the existence of mystical Taoist immortals! "Let''s find a table to sit at," the King of Chu decided to make the best of the situation, waving for his disguised chief eunuch to make arrangements. Some people seemed to be finishing their meals and preparing to leave. However, in just a few breaths'' time, the chief eunuch returned, looking embarrassed, "Your Majesty, all these seats are reserved. There are no empty tables." "Oh?" The King raised an eyebrow, ncing at the sun high in the sky, well past breakfast time. "Then we''ll wait." "Your Majesty," the chief eunuch lowered his voice, ensuring only their group could hear, "Every table is booked for the next ten days." "As soon as this round finishes, the next group will arrive." "Each roundsts the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, and all slots are fully booked now." "..." "??" "...!" The King of Chu, Prime Minister Ji Duan, and even Princess Yun Wu were dumbfounded. This was preposterous! The King''s temple throbbed. Were his Chu people some uncultured bumpkins who hadn''t seen the world? As if they hadn''t eaten a decent meal in centuries? Just because the Jing people came to sell food, riverside seats were booked solid for the next ten days? The King felt his face burn with embarrassment. He recalled how he had listened to the Crown Prince and forbidden Chu people from attending Jing Country''s gatherings across the river. Now look at the result - his people had found a loophole in the royal decree and werepletely ignoring their emperor. They were queuing up, waiting to eat Jing Country''s food! The King took a deep breath and turned to give Princess Yun Wu a long, contemtive look. Judging from her support for Jing Country''s gatherings, the Princess indeed had more foresight than the Crown Prince and was more in touch with the people''s hearts. The King began to regret his hasty decision in following the Crown Prince''s advice. He realized he had been too long confined within the pce walls, out of touch with the voices of his subjects. "Buy a table. I want to taste this food," the King said, narrowing his eyes. Half an hourter, after devouring five tes ofmb rolls dipped in spicy hotpot oil and sesame oil, the King of Chu could barely move. But he wiped his sweat and nced at his daughter beside him, then said, "Go buy ten more tes, no, make it twenty. Yun Wu loves this." Yun Wu: "..." She had long since stopped eating! But the King of Chu, eagerly anticipating moremb rolls, soon found his expectations dashed! Across the river, there was amotion at the Jing Country stalls, and before long, they began packing up. "Huh? They''re closing? Wait, it''s barely past noon!" "That''s right, I still had an order for roast duck!" "What''s going on?" Not only were the Jing Country roast duck and hotpot stalls closing, but even many of the mobile snack vendors were starting to leave. The Chu people saw it first, then heard the news ryed by Chu boatmen from across the river. The boatmen shouted the message back, exining, "The Jing people say they''re moving their stalls upstream!" "?" "???" The Chu people on the bank, including the King of Chu, frowned in displeasure. They were enjoying their meal, so why the sudden relocation? Upstream, the river would be wider. Transporting food would take longer, causing it to cool faster. The Chu people all pouted, unhappy. But there was nothing they could do - after all, the Jing people were the ones running the business. "Why are they going upstream?" With no other choice, the Chu people began moving tables, following the mobile Jing stalls as they relocated. The news was once again ryedyer byyer through the boatmen in the middle of the river. After a while, the answer reached the Chu side, "The Jing people say their Ministry of Works has developed new irrigation and plowing tools. They haven''t seen them either and want to take a look." "The Jing Country''s special gathering for thetter half of today will showcase farming tools, located upstream." Chu people: "!" King of Chu: "...!" Prime Minister Ji Duan: "!" Irrigation tools? Chu State had nevercked for grain, being more prosperous than Jing Country. At this point, they lost interest. "What new irrigation tools? Xiao Yunzhou just loves to exaggerate." The King of Chu didn''t believe a word of it. Jing Country''s food was decent, and Xiao Yunzhou was known for his love of luxury. But when it came to farming, Jing Country had no particr advantage. To be honest, the white rice from Jing Country that the King had eaten today wasn''t even as good as Chu''s - it tasted a bit off. How could they possiblye up with any groundbreaking farming tools? The King didn''t believe it, but since he was already here, he followed the crowd. Many curious Chu people gradually moved along with the Jing people on the opposite bank. But after walking for just the time it took an incense stick to burn, everyone was astounded! In the upstream region of Jing Country, a newly excavated field came into view. At this moment, arge wooden contraption was positioned between the field and the river. The rushing river water, following the motion of this pulsating wooden machine, was being continuously drawn out and channeled into the newly dug irrigation ditches of the field! Irrigation was effortlessly aplished as the wooden device rotated! "!" "!" Not only were the people of Chu astonished, but even the King of Chu, who prided himself on his power, widened his eyes in amazement. Chapter 196 Not only were the people of Chu State stunned, but most of the Jing Country onlookers were also amazed.0 They had never seen such a novel irrigation system that saved so much manpower.0 "What is this?!"0 "No need for people to go in and water the fields?"0 The Chu people on the opposite bank couldn''t see clearly, but they felt it was miraculous.0 The Chu boats that originally transported food now began a new business of ferrying people!0 On the shore, Chu people, whether schrs, merchants, ormoners, all became excited. "Boatman, let me board! I''ll pay in silver!"0 "Yes, we won''t go ashore, we''ll just watch from the boat!"0 "We''re not viting the royal decree, are we?"0 The Chu people once again put their clever minds to work, looking for loopholes in King of Chu''s edict.0 How could this be considered defying the royal decree?0 Of course... it couldn''t!0 Having already paid one tael of silver to board the boat, King of Chu nearly slipped when he heard the mor of the people.0 Well, he was nning to cross the river anyway!0 If King of Chu could go back in time, he would really want to stop himself from issuing that decree, which now made his face burn with embarrassment.0 King of Chu himself was crossing the river!0 Prime Minister Ji Duan and Princess Yunwu naturally followed, and many bold Chu citizens also boarded the boats.0 As they approached the Jing Country shore, everyone could finally see clearly¡ª0 A dragon-bone-like wooden waterwheel was set up on the bank.3 This waterwheel had wooden nks as troughs, with its tail immersed in the water flow. The other end had a small axle fixed on a wooden frame on the embankment, with two adult men on shore, stepping on wooden boards to rotate the axle.0 As the axle rolled, it drove the dragon-bone waterwheel, drawing water from the river and delivering it to the fields.0 "Excellent! This device is convenient!" Even King of Chu couldn''t help but praise it!0 Beside this foot-powered dragon-bone waterwheel, there was also a hand-cranked waterwheel.0 This hand-cranked version was more portable, and nearby, people were using hand-cranked wooden plows to turn over the soil in the fields.0 Clearly, these devices were much more convenient andbor-saving than pure manpower or oxen power!0 "One person can irrigate about five mu ofnd in a day," exined a clerk from the Ministry of Works standing nearby.0 "Further upstream, where the river is rapid," the clerk pointed ahead, "there''s no need for foot power, the water flow alone drives the wheel, channeling water into the fields."0 "!"0 Both Chu and Jing people were amazed.0 Farming would be so much easier from now on!0 Their old backs could finally straighten up a bit.0 [Oh, this is the irrigation skill book I exchanged earlier.]0 Xiao Chuchu was on the opposite bank, held in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, watching contentedly from the front row.0 She suddenly remembered the skill book she had exchanged long ago.0 [Indeed, my skill books have all manifested in the world as innovations developed by Jing Country~]0 [How wonderful, who says I''m not a small butterfly pushing history forward~]3 Xiao Chuchu looked at the excited farmers by the fields watching the irrigation system, her little face beaming with smiles.0 [This is so good.]0 Isn''t it?0 Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but smile too.0 Since before the New Year, he had been urging the Ministry of Works. After three months of research, they finally managed to produce this just in time for the gathering!0 "Are these things for sale?!" A shout rose from the crowd of Chu people on the opposite bank!0 This voice was immediately echoed by other Chu people.0 "Yes, are they for sale? How much silver?"0 "Name a price!"0 "I''ll buy it, I''ll buy it, okay?!"0 The Chu people on the boats could hardly resist the urge to disembark and offer silver.0 Though ordinary people couldn''t afford it, grain merchants could!0 Even vige heads wanted to buy some to take back.0 Prime Minister Ji Duan couldn''t help but nce at King of Chu, who could have imagined that the first person in the crowd to ask about buying was King of Chu himself!0 King of Chu had always looked down on Jing Country, but now it was clear that upon seeing these new devices, he sensed that Jing Country had changed, had be stronger!0 "This one on the side is a water-powered trip hammer," the clerk from Jing Country''s Ministry of Works walked a bit further and continued exining.0 "This device serves three purposes: the first section drives a stone mill to grind flour, the second section powers rice husking, and the third section is used for irrigation."0 "ording to measurements by our Jing Country''s Ministry of Works, it''s ten times more efficient in processing rice than manualbor."0 At this, the people on both banks were in an uproar.0 They looked at the series of strange new wooden contraptions before them, witnessing with their own eyes how water and flour were continuously produced as they operated.0 Grinding flour, husking rice, irrigating fields ¨C it really could do it all!0 What miraculous celestial objects were these?3 "Can we all use these for farming in the future?"0 "It needs to be near a river, right? Our Xun City can do that! We have many streams in Xun City..."0 "When can we start using these? Are they very expensive?"0 The local Jing Country farmers in Xun City hadn''t even used these devices yet.0 This batch was specially transported from the research site near the capital of Jing Country''s Ministry of Works, just for this gathering.0 Someponents were even urgently assembled by local carpenters.0 "Our Ministry of Works will soon deploy these devices to viges in Jing Country with water resources," the Jing Country official from the Ministry of Works said with a smile. "Themon people won''t have to pay for any of these."0 "What? We don''t have to pay?!"0 "Is there really such a good thing?"0 The Jing people on the shore were greatly excited, while the Chu people on the boats were too envious to speak.0 They were afraid that if they opened their mouths, they might express a desire to join Jing Country and farm there!3 "Howe the government is just giving these to us?"0 "How can our Jing Country government be so good to us?"0 [This is what the taxes you usually pay are for! Taking from the people, using for the people~]0 Xiao Chuchu was smiling in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms. [Emperor Dad did well this time.]0 Xiao Yunzhou stood tall with pride.0 Especially when he heard the envy, jealousy, and wails from the Chu boats, this Emperor of Jing Country felt a surge of superiority!0 That''s right, all this prosperity was brought about by his celestial little princess!0 It was all taught by the little princess''s inner voice daily.0 This way, tax revenue used for the people''s benefit was visible, tangible, and genuinely beneficial to the people. Themon folk could also better understand the necessity of paying taxes and wouldn''t resent it as much.0 Xiao Yunzhou looked up at the envious faces on the Chu boats and couldn''t help but straighten his back even more.0 Tremble, people of Chu!0 Today, he had merely disyed what he had learned from his celestial little princess over the past half year!0 Tremble and bow before these celestial objects!0 Xiao Yunzhou arrogantly raised his handsome chin by fifteen degrees in the sunlight. Even though he was dressed in in clothes at the moment, it couldn''t conceal his pride.3 At his side and behind him, the truemoners of Jing Country also wore faces filled with the same pride and honor.0 They all turned towards the ships from Chu State, unable to hide their show-off attitude.0 "The other day when we treated you to a meal, that was just a small taste! Today, haha! Have you learned something new, people of Chu?"0 "Don''t envy us, we''re Jing people and you''re not. Just look at us enjoying the good stuff, hahaha!"0 On the ships from Chu State, silence reigned.0 The King of Chu took a deep breath, his gaze quickly falling on the most boastful Jing person, the one holding his daughter.0 And Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes swiftlynded on the dignified face of the King of Chu.0 In that instant, the gazes of the two countries'' rulers met!0 Chapter 197 The King of Chu stood on the boat, finding it difficult not to notice Xiao Yunzhou in the crowd. After all, the rtionship between Jing Country and Chu State had been tumultuous since the previous generation. The King of Chu had shed with Xiao Yunzhou''s father several times. Xiao Yunzhou resembled his father, allowing the King of Chu to recognize him at a nce. Xiao Yunzhou was in the same position; after ascending to the throne, he had obtained a portrait of the King of Chu from his father. At this moment, just a fleeting nce in the crowd was enough for them to lock onto each other! Two generations of monarchs, rulers of two countries, their gazes intersected. In an instant, sparks flew as they read the meaning in each other''s eyes. The King of Chu quickly narrowed his eyes, softening his sharp gaze somewhat. "Jing Country has made great progress. I never imagined that meditation could be used to govern a country, huh." Xiao Yunzhou and the King of Chu tacitly returned downstream. As night fell, two boats sailed from their respective territories towards the center of the river. The two monarchs sat on their respective vessels, engaged in a battle of wits. The King of Chu''s first words couldn''t help but mock Xiao Yunzhou''s meditation-based governance. But before Xiao Yunzhou could respond, the King of Chu cleared his throat and conceded slightly, "Today''s dragon bone water wheel for irrigation in Jing Country is quite impressive." Such praise would have been impossible a decade ago. But now, faced with absolute technological superiority, Jing Country had achieved it! Sessfully making the proud King of Chu bow his head! Xiao Yunzhou was moved, but quickly chuckled and pretentiously picked up his teacup, hiding his overly excited expression! The King of Chu indeed observed Xiao Yunzhou closely, trying to discern his expression, but upon seeing his calmness, the King of Chu couldn''t help but furrow his brow. The King of Chu had to proactively bring up the next topic, "Has Jing Country truly found an otherworldly expert?" He had heard that the heir of a mystical family possessed mastery over the five arts of mysticism: mountains, medicine, physiognomy, fortune-telling, and divination. "Is this dragon bone water wheel also the result of the expert''s guidance?" The King of Chu clearly coveted this expert, inadvertently revealing his eagerness. Xiao Yunzhou took a pretentious sip of tea, "Indeed, there is an expert, but we didn''t find her." The Little Princess, his daughter, was reincarnated into his family, into Jing Country! "Chu State need not harbor any hopes," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "The expert belongs to Jing Country; she won''t help you." The King of Chu''s mouth twitched. How had this Xiao Yunzhou be even more irritating than his father? "Then why did you help Yun Wu?" The King of Chu wasn''t a fool; he narrowed his eyes at Xiao Yunzhou. Clearly, Xiao Yunzhou had given the expert''s guidance in a sealed envelope to Yun Wu, allowing her to expose his royal brother, showing their favor towards Yun Wu. The King of Chu remained vignt, looking to Xiao Yunzhou for an exnation, "Surely this expert of Jing Country doesn''t simply enjoy meddling in others'' affairs." Xiao Yunzhou paused. His fairy daughter, rather than enjoying meddling in affairs, was more interested in gossip. A few days ago, when she was eavesdropping on the Crown Prince of Chu from the corner of his bed, Little Princess, only half a year old, was thoroughly entertained! As a father and king, he certainly had to satisfy his child''s curiosity. Moreover, every move of Little Princess contained heavenly guidance, and they, as mere mortals¡ª Thinking this, Xiao Yunzhou looked at the highly suspicious King of Chu, "How can we mortals fathom the thoughts of an expert?" "...?" The King of Chu stared. They were emperors, after all! Had Xiao Yunzhou''s meditation practice addled his brain?! But Xiao Yunzhou continued to speak eloquently, "Your Majesty, whether the expert wishes to help Yun Wu is beyond my control. We can only act ording to the expert''s mood. Yun Wu possesses intelligence and talent; if the expert is willing to guide her, it shows she has the virtues and divine favor of heaven. Naturally, Jing Country will assist her as well." "..." The King of Chu was astounded by Xiao Yunzhou. Could this expert be his ancestor?! "Where is this expert? I wish to meet them personally. If they truly have such abilities, I''d like to ask some questions concerning my Chu State." The King of Chu finally expressed his desire. Xiao Yunzhou had long known that this was the King of Chu''s purpose foring. Hearing this, he let out a coldugh. He would never let his adorable Little Princess meet this strange uncle! "Impossible," Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes, "If Your Majesty is sincere, it will depend on the expert''s mood, whether she''s willing to answer your questions." "It will be the same as before, in the form of a sealed envelope." The King of Chu frowned deeply; otherworldly experts indeed had their quirks. "Then how can he prove that he truly has real abilities and isn''t just deceiving me?" The King of Chu refused to back down. [Oh my, I''ve read many web novels about mystical fortune-tellers, and they all have this kind of skepticism plot.] Xiao Chuchu, nestled in Liu Chaniang''s arms inside the cabin, was enjoying the show. She watched this historically significant meeting between the two monarchs from afar, and upon seeing the King of Chu''s doubt about Jing Country''s expert, she couldn''t help butment internally. [Proving the expert''s abilities is simple.] [For example, the expert could divine that the King of Chu has a coin-sized wound on his right buttock, a result of his recent roley session with the Queen.] [He insisted on having the Queen dress up as a fox spirit while he yed the role of a schr, then had the fox spirit seduce him before he pounced on her... This kind of bedroom y, I saw it on the live stream I exchanged for with system points two days ago. It really opened my eyes!] [The King of Chu must be nearly sixty, right? To still have such interests, he''s quite vigorous in his old age!] Xiao Yunzhou, who had just taken a sip of tea, spat it out entirely. "Cough, cough, cough!" The King of Chu: "??" His face was bewildered. Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, "The wind was too strong, I choked." [The roley itself wasn''t the issue, but in his excitement, the King of Chu knocked over a nearby brazier, and a spark burned a coin-sized mark on his buttock!] [Haha, it''s still so funny to think about!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t contain her innerughter. But soon her little face also turned slightly red, [I''m just a baby, I shouldn''t be seeing such adult scenes. It wasn''t intentional; the King of Chu and the Queen said they had important matters to discuss, and I got curious.] [Who would have thought that for 100 points, I''d exchange for a roley scene~] [As a little baby, I was deceived by the King of Chu. It''s all his fault. If it''s roley, just say so, why im to be ''discussing important matters''.] Xiao Yunzhou listened, torn betweenughter and tears, using tremendous self-control to maintain his expression. Now, he could barely look at the gray-haired King of Chu directly. Even a nce reminded him of his daughter''s vivid mental descriptions! The fox spirit and the schr, what an beautifully awkward image. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat softly, suppressing the urge tough. "Here''s the deal: King of Chu, you''ll perform three good deeds in our Jing Country. Consider it umting good karma and also showing your sincerity to the master." "I''ll go ask the master first thing tomorrow morning." The King of Chu was taken aback. Perform three good deeds in Jing Country? For a monarch, this wasn''t a difficult task. That very night, the King of Chu ordered his guards to help clear weeds along the shores of Jing Country, and even gave silver to random Jing Country citizens they encountered! Afterpleting the three deeds, the King of Chu, still somewhat skeptical, spoke to Ji Duan on the boat, "Who knows if this master is really capable? Xiao Yunzhou is quite cunning, tricking me into doing favors for Jing Country first!" No sooner had he said this than a soldier rushed in from outside. "Your Majesty, a message has arrived from the shore of Jing Country!" A silk pouch was presented before the King of Chu. As soon as he opened it and saw the first three characters that read ''fox spirit'', the King''s body stiffened, and his face quickly contorted. Impossible! How could anyone know about the emperor''s bedroom affairs? The King of Chu felt as if the master had him by the throat! Chapter 198 The King of Chu was initially quite rxed, casually epting and opening the silk pouch while conversing with Prime Minister Ji Duan.0 However, in an instant, as he unfolded the note inside the pouch and caught sight of the first three characters meaning "fox spirit," the King of Chu suddenly stood up straight.0 Originally, he had been standing shoulder to shoulder with Prime Minister Ji Duan, with Ji Duan slightly behind the king''s position.0 Now, with a sudden turn, the King of Chu put at least three people''s distance between himself and Ji Duan!0 The King of Chu warily scanned his surroundings, and only after confirming that everyone was far enough away to not see the note in his hand did he breathe a sigh of relief.0 Seeing this behavior, Prime Minister Ji Duan was also surprised, "Your Majesty, does the sage have important information?"0 The King of Chu''s entire body stiffened, a thinyer of sweat forming on his back, his face beginning to flush, "Hmm..."0 It was indeed very important!0 This sage from Jing Country had spoken of the emperor''s private matters - how could it not be important?0 The King of Chu looked up, once again confirming Prime Minister Ji Duan''s position, ensuring he couldn''t see the note in his hand, before slowly unfolding it.0 The characters that appeared, one after another, made the King of Chu''s heart race.0 ¡ª Fox spirit0 ¡ª Schr0 ¡ª Right buttock, size of a copper coin0 "!"0 The King of Chu''s hand holding the note began to tremble.0 How could the sage from Jing Country truly calcte such details?0 The King of Chu carefully recalled, he was certain that there was no one hidden under his royal bed on normal days!0 The guards were all stationed at a distance outside the door, unable to hear the sounds inside the room.0 No one knew about his special preference for role-ying as a schr in bed!4 @Furna: Plot twist: The Empress is actually into it because she has a thing for nerds. Brains over brawn! Except for the Empress, his childhood sweetheart who grew up with him, he hadn''t tried this with any of the other young consorts.0 Because after his ascension to the throne, he had also married many daughters of important ministers, and he didn''t want his special hobby to reach the ears of the officials.0 So, the King of Chu was certain that only the Empress and himself knew about this!0 Even a few days ago, when he had almost sat on a fire tripod in the room, burning a small area on his right buttock, it was the Empress who personally applied medicine for him.0 He hadn''t even called for the imperial physician, keeping it secret even from the eunuchs who served him!0 But now, the location and size of this scar, the sage from Jing Country knew about it?0 The King of Chu was so shocked he couldn''t speak, and only after a long while did he recover, ordering the guard, "Send a message to Xiao Yunzhou, I want to meet with him again."0 Prime Minister Ji Duan''s expression changed, hisplex gaze falling on the silk pouch.0 But before Ji Duan could think further, the King of Chu called back the messenger guard, "Wait."0 The King of Chu took a deep breath, rubbed his palms, and tucked his hands into his royal robe.0 "Send a jade ruyi scepter, a jade Guanyin statue, three red coral bonsai..."0 Prime Minister Ji Duan''s expression changed dramatically!0 Was this for the sage from Jing Country?0 It seemed that the silk pouch was very useful!0 But the King of Chu didn''t want to say a word about the note in the pouch to Ji Duan. After hesitating for a moment, he added, "Also add a hundred taels of gold..."0 "Hmm, and send two beautiful women as well."4 @Mina: Plot twist: The women are actually undercover spies. Now THAT would be a gift that keeps on giving! With each sentence the King of Chu spoke, Prime Minister Ji Duan''s expression changed from amazement to bewilderment.0 This didn''t seem like the King of Chu merely wanting to befriend the sage from Jing Country!0 It was more like he was trying to curry favor with the sage!0 It was as if the sage from Jing Country had caught hold of some weakness of his!0 This was no ordinary gift-giving. The King of Chu looked like he was afraid of displeasing the sage!0 Sending only jade items might make the sage feel they were useless and unhappy.0 Sending money might insult the sage, making him unhappy.0 So he decided to send everything, even packing up beautiful women.0 The King of Chu had thought of every aspect. As the guard was about to leave, the King of Chu cleared his throat lightly, "Ask Xiao Yunzhou if there''s any other good deed he wants me to do, and have him send a message."0 "I also think being merciful andpassionate is quite good."0 Prime Minister Ji Duan took a deep breath and lowered his head.0 What was with the King of Chu acting even more subservient than a grandson?0 Anyone who didn''t know better might think that Xiao Yunzhou, the emperor of Jing Country, was the King of Chu''s father!0 But after doing all this, the King of Chu didn''t feel he had done anything excessive.0 "Prime Minister, do you think this otherworldly sage from Jing Country will like the things I''m sending?" the King of Chu was still very worried.0 The handwriting on the note in the silk pouch was clearly that of Xiao Yunzhou, the emperor of Jing Country.0 It must have been the sage from Jing Country who told Xiao Yunzhou what to write!0 He also didn''t know if that sage had told Xiao Yunzhou the details of this fox spirit and schr story!0 The King of Chu could only hope that the sage hadn''t said anything.0 If he hadn''t said anything, then he still had some face in front of Xiao Yunzhou, and didn''t have to worry about Xiao Yunzhou spreading rumors outside, affecting his authority in Chu State.0 So now, the King of Chu only wanted to satisfy the sage and wanted to seal the sage''s lips!0 "Prime Minister, if it were you, do you think my gift shows enough sincerity? Even if the sage doesn''t like it, he shouldn''t hate it, right?"0 The King of Chu was worried, and Prime Minister Ji Duan could only offer somefort, "If it were me, I would certainly feel that Your Majesty''s sincerity is abundant."0 "That''s good." The King of Chu finally smiled.0 Compared to the ipetence of the crown prince, the issue of his and the Empress''s y, which could affect his reputation, made the King of Chu more anxious.0 ...0 The next day, when Xiao Chuchu woke up in her small bed, she saw a jade ruyi scepter beside her bed.0 Then during breakfast, she saw a jade Guanyin statue in the room.0 When Concubine Liu carried her out for a walk, Xiao Chuchu saw two beautiful women, one as gentle as jade, the other charming and delicate, each with their own unique charm.0 Xiao Yunzhou, with his hands behind his back, came over to take his daughter, and gave her soft little face a kiss.0 "My dear, these are all gifts sent by the King of Chu to me."0 "I thought the little princess might like them, so I put them in your and the little princess''s room."0 [Oh my, what do I need these for? I can''t eat antiques, and I can''t take them back to modern times to sell.]4 @Naime: Xiao Chuchu in 20 years: ''And that''s how I started my antique dealing empire, kids.'' Xiao Chuchu felt that decorative items like the jade ruyi scepter might break if thrown around to y with.0 [I do like the two beautiful women, but by the time I''m seven or eight years old, they might be at the age to leave the pce~ I can''t keep them in the pce without freedom for their whole lives.]0 [Ah, beautiful women are great, but s, we have an age difference.]0 Xiao Yunzhou, hearing this, could only want tough. The King of Chu''s attempt at ttery had backfired!0 Foolish, King of Chu!0 [If he had sent money directly, I would be happier, really.]0 Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but fantasize in her heart.0 [After all, being born in the pce in this life, I see art pieces and antiques every day, I''m already aesthetically fatigued.]0 [Money touches my heart more deeply~]0 Xiao Yunzhou: "..."0 He never expected that his little princess, reincarnated from a celestial being, would turn out to be such a money lover!0 Had he, as a father and king, not given his child enough already?0 "Your Majesty, the King of Chu has arrived."0 Xiao Yunzhou was just pondering where his daughter''s love for money came from when he was interrupted.0 He stood up immediately, "Mm, please escort him to the pavilion out front."0 [Oh? So the King of Chu really did secretly cross the river and enter Jing Country''s territory?]0 Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but add her mentalmentary again.0 But soon, as Xiao Yunzhou bounced her in his arms, her delicate little face twitched.0 [Oh crap, I suddenly remembered!]0 [In the novel, the King of Chu went incognito to Zhou Kingdom, and not long after, on his way back, he was shot off his horse by an arrow from assassins sent by his own son. After returning to his country, the King of Chu didn''tst long and passed away within a few months.]4 @Furna: Plot twist: The eunuch is actually the true mastermind, ying 4D chess while everyone else is ying checkers. [It was because the Crown Prince of Chu had been constantly instigated by his favored eunuch, who said he should ascend to the throne early to be prepared for anything.]0 [I think this part of the novel''s plot happened during the third month of spring. Isn''t that around now?]0 [Could it be that the novel''s plot has changed, and instead of going to Zhou Kingdom, the King of Chu came to Jing Country? If so, will he also be assassinated by his own son on his way back from Jing Country?]0 Xiao Yunzhou had only taken one step when his eyes widened in shock.0 Chapter 199 King of Chu was about to be assassinated by the Crown Prince of Chu, and would die within half a year.0 Xiao Yunzhou never imagined he would hear such explosive news from his daughter''s mouth.0 When Xiao Yunzhou arrived at the waterside pavilion and saw the King of Chu standing with his hands behind his back, his hair gray but his posture still straight, he couldn''t help but be distracted.0 Who could have imagined that a great hero of his generation would die at the hands of his own son?0 Xiao Yunzhou felt no schadenfreude, only a sigh.0 "Xiao Yunzhou, I didn''t expect to see you again after just one night," the King of Chu turned around upon hearing footsteps behind him.0 But when he saw the pce servant holding a swaddled infant behind Xiao Yunzhou, the corner of his mouth twitched.0 The spies hadn''t concealed it from him - this coward Xiao Yunzhou, when not cultivating the Dao, was all about romance and children, spoiling his not-yet-one-year-old little princess to high heaven!4 @Anra_0: Forget politics, this emperor has his priorities straight: family first! The King of Chu now seriously doubted whether Xiao Yunzhou was normal.0 "Is this the little princess you gotst year?" The King of Chu took a closer look at Xiao Chuchu in the swaddling clothes, noting that she indeed had red lips and white teeth, and would surely grow up to be a stunning beauty.0 But the King of Chu, considering the presence of experts in Jing Country, couldn''t help but advise Xiao Yunzhou, "She''s just a small child, is it necessary to carry her around everywhere?"0 In his early years, when his first child Yun Wu was born, the King of Chu had also been extremely doting, because she was the child he had longed for ten years, and held special meaning.0 Moreover, he didn''t have a crown prince at that time.0 Although now when the King of Chu thought of his good-for-nothing Crown Prince, he was at a loss for words, he still believed in his heart that males were superior to females.0 "No matter how much you dote on her, you can''t make her the crown prince, can you? Throughout history, those who inherit the throne have always been male," the King of Chu sighed lightly.0 Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze flickered.0 In the swaddling clothes, Xiao Chuchu''s little face wasplex, and she couldn''t help but mock inwardly, [How true that Iugh at the world''sck of insight.]0 [What''s the real difference between men and women? Isn''t it just a difference in physiological structure? Why can''t women be emperors?]4 @Naime: Baby Chuchu for Emperor 2023! She''s got my vote! [Ah, for others who favor sons over daughters, they might just end up miserable in their old age with no one to care for them.]0 [King of Chu, you''re going to die an unclear death.]0 [In the novel, on the third day of your return journey from Zhou Country, you''re done in by your son, the Crown Prince.]0 [You return to the pce with an arrow wound, disoriented, and the Crown Prince puts on a show of filial piety, attending to you day and night by your bedside, giving you medicine.]0 [But in reality, he''s reced all your medicine with slow-acting poison! Not only does your wound not heal, but you be even weaker!]0 [He''spletely destroyed the iron constitution you had in your youth when you could fight for three days without sleep.]0 [How tragic, King of Chu! That''s what you get for favoring sons over daughters!]0 Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows trembled violently as he listened, and even his expression when looking at the King of Chu carried a hint of sympathy he couldn''t suppress.0 In the future described by his fairy daughter, Xiao Yunzhou himself was also harmed, but at least it was by a non-blood rtive, the favored consort.0 That was much better than the King of Chu being harmed by his own flesh and blood!0 Xiao Yunzhou looked at the King of Chu, unable to suppress a feeling of superiority, and shook his head with a tsk.0 "?"0 "...?"0 The King of Chu looked at Xiao Yunzhou,pletely baffled. Where did this sympathy and contempte from?0 Just considering this habit of being overly sentimental about children and carrying the little princess everywhere, the King of Chu felt he was far superior to Xiao Yunzhou!0 But just as the King of Chu was about to puff up his mustache and re, Xiao Yunzhou spoke again.0 "Chu Yuan, by seniority, I should call you Uncle. But since I am the Emperor of Jing Country, we are peers, so I''ll just call you Old Chu."4 @The_Followera: The King of Chu''s face right now: + + "..." The King of Chu opened his mouth, his dignified square face almost losing its shape.0 Old Chu?0 Who did Xiao Yunzhou think he was addressing? Had Jing Country grown too bold? Even if Jing Country and neighboring Wu Yun Country were tied together, they still wouldn''t have as much money and troops as Chu State!0 But Xiao Yunzhou''s next words left the King of Chu frozen in ce, "Old Chu, I know you came today to ask about that vixen..."0 The King of Chu red.0 Xiao Yunzhou coughed and quickly backtracked, chuckling, "Ahem, you came to ask about the future of Chu State and the matter of the Crown Prince of Chu."0 The King of Chu took a deep breath.0 That''s right, he was concerned about the future of Chu State!0 If Chu State''s fortunes couldst until the next generation of royal grandchildren grew up, he didn''t want to depose the Crown Prince.0 Unlike him, the Crown Prince had his Crown Princess give birth to a royal grandson at sixteen.0 In another seven or eight years, when the royal grandson became a young lord, he could ascend to the throne and rule the country with the assistance of several ministers.0 No matter how intelligent Princess Yun Wu was, she was still female.0 Not only would the court officials disagree with her session, even the King of Chu himself couldn''t quite ept passing the throne to a woman.0 How could he face his ancestors in the underworld?0 Once a princess is married off, she belongs to another family!0 "Old Chu," Xiao Yunzhou patted the King of Chu''s arm sympathetically, "let me give you a piece of advice."0 "It''s like amoner''s pigsty. If a pig has a deadly disease, you need to deal with it early, don''t let it affect the other pigs."0 "!"0 "..."0 The King of Chu was dumbfounded. Who was he calling a pig? Who was heparing to pigs?0 Xiao Yunzhou was getting into it now, "You hem and haw, reluctant to deal with it, raising that diseased pig to maturity, even intending to use it for breeding, as a stud."4 @nirvana23: Xiao Yunzhou: idental agricultural advisor or secret master of shade? You decide! "Old Chu, aren''t you causing a huge disaster? How can your pigsty be good in the future? Later on, the pigs in your family, your neighbors'' families, your entire vige will all be sick, and you won''t even have time to cry, I''m telling you!"0 The King of Chu opened his mouth, unable to utter a word. He was so angry he almostughed!0 If anyone else dared to mock his Crown Prince as a pig, to mock his Chu State as a pigsty, the King of Chu would certainly have them dragged away and beheaded!0 But the person opposite was Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country!0 What''s more, when Xiao Yunzhou said these words, he exuded a strange sincerity, as if he wholeheartedly wanted the best for Chu State, as if he felt sorry for the people of Chu State, these "pigs"!0 The corner of the King of Chu''s mouth twitched. This Xiao Yunzhou was truly more insulting and infuriating than his father had been!0 But Xiao Yunzhou clearly didn''t feel he had said anything wrong, "Don''t refuse to listen, Old Chu. You''ve eaten the five-flower pork from our Jing Country, right? The taste is quite good, with an even distribution of fat and lean. We raise them well, you know why? It''s because we take good care of the breeding pigs and then carefully raise the piglets."0 "It''s all under the care of the former Chief Minister..."0 The King of Chu could no longer speak, gritting his teeth, he said, "Xiao Yunzhou, I didn''te here today to ask you!"0 "I came to ask the expert!"0 Xiao Yunzhou, cut off mid-sentence, wasn''t angry, but rather seemed prepared for this.0 He promptly pulled out a silk pouch from his sleeve and squinted at the King of Chu. "Old Chu, take a look at this first. Then think about what you''re willing to offer in exchange for the rest of the information."0 The King of Chu paused, then took the pouch while muttering, "Xiao Yunzhou, don''t try to pull any tricks on me!"0 But as soon as he opened the pouch, his eyes widened in shock.0 Inside were fourrge characters that read: "King of Chu''s Death Trap!"0 "!"0 The King of Chu instantly jolted, his eyes darting up to re at Xiao Yunzhou.0 Xiao Yunzhou turned his head to nce at Chuchu in Wei Zheng''s arms, noticing that she had already fallen asleep out of boredom during their earlier discussion about pig farming.0 Not wanting to disturb his daughter, Xiao Yunzhou lowered his voice and said to the King of Chu, "Old Chu, how much silver are you willing to pay for this information?"0 "Your life as an emperor, if it''s truly saved by my people from Jing Country¡ªI want Chu State to reduce the price of iron ore by 30% and sell it to Jing Country!" Xiao Yunzhou had already thought this through beforeing.0 The King of Chu''s expression suddenly turned sharp. "Xiao Yunzhou, you''ve got quite an appetite!"0 "Shh, keep it down. Don''t wake my little princess," Xiao Yunzhou narrowed his eyes. "Otherwise, Old Chu, even if you beg me, I won''t tell you about the death trap."4 @Diane: King of Chu: *internally screaming* Xiao Yunzhou: *smug dad noises* "!" The King of Chu felt a sudden pain in his teeth.0 Damn it, this infuriating daughter-doting fool!0 How aggravating!0 Chapter 200 The pavilion where Xiao Yunzhou and the King of Chu were ying chess and talking was surrounded by water on all sides, allowing them to see that no one was hiding nearby. Even Wei Zheng had withdrawn after cing the sleeping Xiao Chuchu in a small carriage. Therefore, no one except the infant Xiao Chuchu in her swaddling clothes could possibly hear the conversation between the King of Chu and Xiao Yunzhou. The King of Chu immediately looked at Xiao Yunzhou with piercing eyes, disregarding the sleeping six-month-old baby, and lowered his voice, "Did that great master say that I have a death cmity?" Xiao Yunzhou nodded. "How... how long do I have left to live?" In the face of death, everyone is afraid, and the King of Chu was no exception. At this moment, he didn''t even dare to use his usual regal tone of referring to himself as "this king." He feared that being too arrogant might offend the great master and bring about his death even sooner! "Did the great master say when my death cmity would ur?" Xiao Yunzhou pursed his lips and let out a long sigh while looking at the King of Chu. He sighed so much that it made the King of Chu''s skin crawl before finally speaking, "Very soon, less than half a year, perhaps even shorter." The King of Chu instantly felt a chill down his spine, his limbs went weak, and he slumped onto the stone bench in the pavilion. He only had a few months left? The King of Chu''s hand holding the chess piece trembled involuntarily, and the ck piece fell onto the board with a tter. "Did the great master provide any solution?" The King of Chu leaned forward eagerly, as if grasping for a lifeline. Xiao Yunzhou hesitated for a moment before giving an ambiguous, mystical response, "The great master, in his mercy, has given you some guidance, which is already a blessing. As for how things will unfold, it depends on you, old Chu." The King of Chu narrowed his eyes for a moment, and his kingly aura of decisiveness and grand strategy surged forth, "I am willing to hear the details! If I can''t avoid this cmity with the great master''s guidance, I''d be too ipetent and might as well go meet my ancestors sooner!" The King of Chu had led armies in his youth, oveing many obstacles, and was quite brave. He wasn''t afraid of challenges and had faith in his abilities. If the great master was willing to point out where exactly his death cmityy, the King of Chu didn''t believe he couldn''t resolve it! He narrowed his eyes at Xiao Yunzhou, "If the great master from Jing Country truly saves my life, reducing the price of copper and iron by thirty percent won''t be a problem." No emperor doesn''t wish for eternal life and an evesting reign. Let alone using copper and iron to buy his life, if the great master was effective, the King of Chu would agree even if it cost him gold and silver! "But if you''re deceiving me," the King of Chu snorted lightly, "If it''s all a fabrication and you''re just putting on an act, Xiao Yunzhou, not only will you not get the copper and iron, but I''ll also settle ounts with you slowly!" Xiao Yunzhou, upon hearing this, nodded instead of getting angry, "The great master never speaks falsehoods." As he spoke, he couldn''t help but nce at the small bed beside them, where Chuchu was sleeping with her little face flushed red. The little immortal princess never told lies. Whenever she spoke from her heart, it was always to guide and benefit the world. At most, the little princess sometimes had a sharp tongue when she was right. Xiao Yunzhou, thinking of how the little princess had criticized the King of Chu for favoring boys over girls, couldn''t help but add, "Old Chu, the great master doesn''t like people who favor sons over daughters." "You should be careful, old Chu," Xiao Yunzhou warned seriously. The King of Chu: "?" He almost thought he had misheard. Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou demanded a promise from the King of Chu on the spot, "Besides the thirty percent price reduction, you should also change your attitude about favoring sons over daughters. It''s for your own good." "If you don''t heed heaven''s will, you''ll surely face retribution." "???" "!!!" The King of Chu was utterly shocked. What heavenly mandate? Since when did favoring sons over daughters go against heaven''s will? But for now, the King of Chu had no time to dwell on this matter. As long as the great master could keep him alive, even if it was just for another ten or twenty years, he wouldn''t object to favoring daughters over sons, or even turning a blind eye to the Crown Prince''s malepanions! Were issues of gender preference more important than his life as an emperor? Although the King of Chu was skeptical about why heaven suddenly cared so much about women, he still nodded to Xiao Yunzhou, "As long as the great master''s treatment is effective, I will sincerely listen to the heavenly way transmitted by the great master and follow his guidance with self-discipline and propriety." Seeing his sincerity, Xiao Yunzhou finally nodded. The two rulers immediately spread out imperial paper and signed the agreement on the copper and iron trade price between Jing Country and Chu State. Although the King of Chu didn''t have the Chu State''s imperial seal with him, he put his mark on the paper. "I''ll stamp it with the Chu State''s imperial seal once my death cmity is resolved," the King of Chu said, still cautious. Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t worried about him going back on his word, "Alright, there are two key points to resolving the death cmity. I''ll give you one first, and when you return to your country and stamp it with the imperial seal, I''ll give you the other." "???" The King of Chu was impressed by Xiao Yunzhou''s tactics. [Wow, I woke up from a nice nap, and they''ve already reached an agreement?] Xiao Chuchu was delighted. Xiao Yunzhou was just handing over a sealed letter he had written to the King of Chu. Hearing his daughter''s thoughts, he smiled, immediately stood up, ignoring the King of Chu who was reading the note, and went to the little bed to y with his daughter. The King of Chu could hardly bear to watch his doting behavior! Even when he had waited ten years to have a child with Yun Wu, he hadn''t pampered her like this. But just as the King of Chu showed a hint of mockery, he looked at the note in the sealed envelope and was shocked to his core! ¡ª On the third day of the return journey to Chu ¡ª Shot by an arrow and fall from horse ¡ª The attacker, hired by the Crown Prince of Chu "Crash!" The King of Chu stood up abruptly, knocking over the chessboard in front of him with his sudden movement. The King of Chu''s expression changed from white to red, then to ck, and back to white again. Nonsense! This great master! The King of Chu''s first reaction was to curse. But in an instant, the King of Chu remembered that the great master even knew the details of his private moments with the empress and the schr courtesan behind closed doors. It was unlikely to be a mistake, and the King of Chu''s heart sank to the bottom! He felt a mix of anger, urgency, fear, and rage, tooplex to continue the casual conversation with Xiao Yunzhou as before. "Is it true?" "Did the great master really tell you this? Is my death cmity really because of the Crown...?" The King of Chu wanted to say "Crown Prince" but swallowed his words. Xiao Yunzhou, holding Xiao Chuchu and coaxing her to drink water, nodded sympathetically at him. [Wow, the King of Chu knows now? It seems the great master of Jing Country is also a butterfly effect brought by me, a transmigrator~] Xiao Chuchu was very satisfied, [I don''t need to get up and find other ways to tell the Emperor Dad. The Emperor Dad already has a channel to know about the King of Chu''s death cmity. Great, I can continue to lie down, sleep, eat melon, and watch the show.] [The life of a cker is so good~] Xiao Chuchu was very pleased with the result of waking up from a nap to find the problem solved. ["With the assistance of Chu State, our Jing Country will surely change its fate!"] Xiao Chuchu had long coveted Chu State as an ally. [Afterwards, the King of Chu will certainly no longer support that muddle-headed Crown Prince Liu Adou. Princess Yun Wu has a chance at ascending to the throne!] Xiao Chuchu smiled gleefully at the thought. Xiao Yunzhou was also pleased inwardly. His little princess was truly a lucky charm, bringing prosperity to Jing Country just by existing! "Alright, old Chu, go back and handle your affairs. This king wants to y with his daughter and has no time to entertain you anymore," Xiao Yunzhou promptly dismissed his guest. King of Chu: "..." This infuriating daughter-doting father! But just as the King of Chu was about to roll his eyes, he remembered what Xiao Yunzhou had said earlier, ''Old Chu, the sage doesn''t like those who favor sons over daughters...'' The King of Chu suddenly halted his steps and looked at the tender infant girl in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms, his eyes flickering. "Ah, I never expected the little princess of Jing Country to be so adorable," the King of Chu instantly smiled, untying the dragon-patterned jade pendant from his waist and tucking it directly into Xiao Chuchu''s swaddling clothes. "This king is quite fond of her. The little princess is far superior to this king''s son!" "Little Xiao, let this king hold your little princess for a moment." "!" Get lost! Xiao Yunzhou immediately sensed the crisis of his daughter being snatched by a creepy uncle! "Hurry on your way, old Chu!" That night, the King of Chu had someone deliver a box of curious ythings for children to Xiao Yunzhou, specifically stating they were gifts for the little princess Xiao Chuchu, and promised to send gifts for the child every year henceforth. Xiao Yunzhouy awake, conflicted,te into the night. "Chaniang, do you think that old fox, the King of Chu, is trying topete with me for Chuchu''s affection?" "...?" "Hmph, he can dream on!" "..." Liu Chaniang''s mouth twitched as she shooed him away and put their daughter to sleep herself. * The next day, the King of Chu secretly led his people back to their country. The journey was uneventful at first, but on the third day, just as the King of Chu was about to cross a shallow ford, a sudden arrow of misfortune flew towards his horse! Chapter 201 The King of Chu still clung to a sliver of hope that the sage from Jing Country was wrong! The assassination attempt wouldn''t happen, and it certainly wouldn''t be orchestrated by the Crown Prince he had doted on for so many years. However, as they approached the third day of their return journey¡ªthe day the sage had warned about¡ªthe King of Chu''s hope began to crumble. Once he started paying attention and investigating, suspicious characters began to emerge. By the third day, the King of Chu, wearing the armor of one of his guards and riding at the rear of the procession, witnessed with his own eyes an arrow strike the horse of a guard disguised as himself! "Enemy attack!" The guards instantly formed a protective circle. The King of Chu was furious. The Crown Prince, how dare he actually do such a thing! "Capture that assassin for me!" he roared. Prime Minister Ji Duan and the Military Commander, who were apanying him, were stunned. The previous night, the King of Chu had confided in them, saying he might be the target of an assassination attempt today. At the time, they had thought the Emperor of Jing Country was using the sage as a ruse to mock their king. But they never expected it to be true! The King of Chu had switched ces with a guard, and the arrow had indeed struck his horse! "The third day after leaving Jing, struck by an arrow"... Even the timing of the assassination attempt matched exactly with the warning in the sage''s envelope! Prime Minister Ji Duan and the Military Commander couldn''t help but be impressed by the Jing Country sage. His prediction was incredibly urate! "Your Majesty, we''ve captured the assassin!" Because the King of Chu had warned him about today''s turmoil, the Military Commander was prepared. It didn''t take long to apprehend the would-be killer. Prime Minister Ji Duan was about to send the man to prison for interrogation, but the King of Chu stopped him, opting instead to detain him secretly. "Your Majesty, if we don''t interrogate him to find out who''s behind this, I fear they may have more assassination ns!" Prime Minister Ji Duan was a ruthless man. But the King of Chu, standing with Prime Minister Ji Duan by the moonlitke, seemed to have aged ten years. He sighed softly, "Prime Minister, I haven''t made up my mind yet." Haven''t made up his mind? Prime Minister Ji Duan was stunned. What was there to think about? Attempting to assassinate the king was a capital offense in any country. Capturing the culprit and executing their entire n was the standard procedure... What was there to consider? But the King of Chu''s next words filled Prime Minister Ji Duan with dread. "If it truly is the Crown Prince, I haven''t decided how to deal with it," the King of Chu said in a deste tone. Prime Minister Ji Duan''s eyes widened. The mastermind behind the assassination was the Crown Prince?! The Jing Country sage not only predicted the time and cause of the assassination attempt but even identified the mastermind?! His abilities were truly extraordinary. How much silver would it cost to have him read one''s fortune... Ahem, not the point. How could the Crown Prince be so vicious?! Prime Minister Ji Duan suddenly felt a splitting headache. "Your Majesty, we can only know the truth after a thorough interrogation," Ji Duan could only offer this constion to the King of Chu. The King of Chu grasped at thisst shred of hope. "You''re right. Have the assassin taken to the capital. We''ll interrogate him after I''ve rested for a day or two when we return to the pce!" As long as the truth wasn''t confirmed, there was still a chance the Crown Prince was innocent. Having made this decision, the King of Chu also summoned local troops to increase his protection. He switched from horseback to a carriage and recruited two renowned doctors from the area to apany them back to the capital of Chu State. [The King of Chu is scared now, afraid he might be assassinated again!] [But he still can''t bring himself to condemn the Crown Prince just yet. A father''s love for his son runs deep. The King of Chu doesn''t want to believe his own son would harm him, clinging to a desperate hope.] [Putting off the revtion for even a day is a smallfort. Ah, the love of parents is truly pitiful. Looking at it this way, the King of Chu is just a poor father right now~] Xiao Chuchu, lying in her baby carriage, watched the live stream of the garden tour and enthusiasticallymented in her heart. Xiao Yunzhou, pushing the carriage and tending to his daughter, raised an eyebrow when he heard this part. Foolish King of Chu! But Xiao Yunzhou was relieved that the King of Chu had escaped this attempt. If the King of Chu had died unexpectedly, before Princess Yunwu could ascend to the throne, and that ungrateful Crown Prince had seized control of Chu State, it would have been extremely disadvantageous for Jing Country. Xiao Yunzhou immediately signaled Wei Zheng to hurry and fetch an envelope from the study, to be sent out by messenger. Sure enough, just as the King of Chu was about to reach the gates of the Chu State capital, before he could even disembark from his carriage, the hastily dispatched Jing Country messenger arrived. "Old Chu, I trust you''ve encountered your first brush with death." Xiao Yunzhou''s bold handwriting was instantly recognizable to the King of Chu in the carriage! The King of Chu sprang up from his soft cushions, sitting bolt upright. The Jing Country messenger had ridden hard to catch up with their group, arriving at the capital of Chu State at the same time. This meant that Xiao Yunzhou had sent the message right after he had been attacked! It couldn''t have been more than half a day! Had the Jing Country sage even predicted that he would be assassinated? And as if he had witnessed it himself, knew the exact time of the real assassination attempt? The King of Chu narrowed his eyes. For the sake of safety on the journey and to prevent unrest in Chu State, he had forbidden any of his guards from spreading word of the assassination attempt! The Jing Country sage was truly extraordinary! The King of Chu continued reading the note in the envelope, which said, "Now that you know the sage''s words are true, Old Chu, quickly fulfill your promise to reduce prices by 30%, seal it with your royal seal, and let my Jing Country envoy bring it back." "Don''t dy, lest you displease our Jing Country sage!" Xiao Yunzhou''s forceful handwriting made it seem like he was collecting a debt, and his tone wasn''t particrly friendly. But the King of Chu couldn''t muster any objection. If it weren''t for the sage''s warning, he would have certainly fallen from his horse. At his age, such a fall could have left him crippled or even killed him. The Jing Country sage had undoubtedly saved his life! The King of Chu dared not dy. He immediately spoke to the Jing Country messenger, "Wait a moment, I''ll affix the seal as soon as I enter the pce..." Halfway through his sentence, the King of Chu noticed that the messenger was still holding another envelope! "Could this be... what the sage mentioned about my second brush with death?" The King of Chu instantly recalled Xiao Yunzhou saying he would tell him about the second life-threatening situation after he had affixed the royal seal. What was he waiting for?! If he waited until after sealing the document to read the envelope, wouldn''t his corpse be cold by then?! Having experienced one near-death predictione true, the King of Chu no longer dared to wait casually! "Prime Minister, ride quickly to the pce. With my royal decree, immediately retrieve the royal seal from the imperial study, and have the Military Commander escort you back here!" "Hurry, don''t keep the Jing Country messenger waiting here too long!" "When youe out, bring another squad of soldiers to protect me!" The King of Chu now didn''t dare to gallop on horseback, fearing assassination on the road. But as he sat in his carriage, surrounded by guards and moving slowly towards the pce with heightened security, he truly feared that the Jing Country sage would be displeased if made to wait too long! The King of Chu was instantly on the verge of death from anxiety, his eyes fixed intently on the second silk pouch in the Jing Country envoy''s hand. "Why haven''t you left yet, Prime Minister?!" he eximed. Prime Minister Ji Duan was utterly astonished, but still obeyed the order. He immediately went to the pce to retrieve the royal seal, then, apanied by pce guards, rode nonstop to the city gates. The King of Chu took the royal seal, stamped it on the treaty between the two countries, and only then did he breathe a huge sigh of relief. He promptly handed it to the Jing Country ambassador and received the silk pouch in return. He eagerly tore open the pouch and read its contents, his eyes darting across the lines. Suddenly, it was as if he had been plunged into ice-cold water. The King of Chu''s face disyed aplex mix of emotions: fear of what could have been, relief, disappointment, and anger. ¡ª[Second assassination attempt on the King of Chu: The Crown Prince will switch the medicine and poison him.] After a long moment, the King of Chu closed his eyes, a glimmer of tears in the corners. He took a deep breath, opened his eyes with a piercing gaze, and spoke with words as sharp as a sword. "This King has been attacked and wounded. Summon the royal physician!" He would feign injury! He wanted to see if the Crown Prince would really rece the medicine with poison. [Oh my, the King of Chu still wants to test the Crown Prince. He really doesn''t give up, does he?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but click her tongue in sympathy. [Let''s just say, the Crown Prince''s poison is already waiting in his hands!] Chapter 202 The pce of the Crown Prince of Chu. "Father is entering the pce by carriage?" "And he''s bringing the imperial seal to the city gate before entering? Could it be that Father''s condition is critical, and he''s hurrying to write a decree of session outside?" The Crown Prince of Chu paced anxiously in the hall, his face asionally revealing a hint of reluctance, followed by shes of excitement and malice. "Your Highness, the King is not dead yet. Fortunately, we have a backup n. Imperial Physician Chen has been bought off. Once you be Emperor, you can have as many beautiful men as you desire." The Crown Prince, initially hesitant, quickly gritted his teeth upon hearing this. "Tell Chen to be ready!" ... At dawn, the King of Chu was carried back, his eyes tightly shut and his face ashen. Soon after, the Empress of Chu, the Crown Prince, and Princess Yunwu hurriedly arrived one after another. "Father!" The Crown Prince cried, tears streaming down his face and soaking the King''s cor. The King''s eyebrows twitched. If he hadn''t been forewarned by the sage from Jing Country, he might never have imagined that the Crown Prince, who appeared so grief-stricken and panicked, could be the mastermind behind the assassination attempt. "Your son will surely punish the assassin severely! Father!" The Crown Prince continued to pledge his loyalty. The King''s temple throbbed. Severe punishment, or silencing the perpetrator? "Father, the imperial physician has arrived," the Crown Prince announced, maintaining his position closest to the King''s bedside, holding his hand. The Empress followed closely, with Princess Yunwu anxiously standing at the foot of the bed, unable to move any closer to the King. For the Crown Prince outranked the Princess! Once the Emperor passed away and the Crown Prince ascended the throne, the Princess would be merely a subject. The King nced at his children''s positions, his heart a tumult of emotions. The prince who sought to harm him,cking in virtue and wisdom, had been elevated to a position second only to the Emperor himself. Meanwhile, his daughter, the princess who truly cared for him, perfect in virtue and surpassing in wisdom, could barely stand in the corner, without even a chance to speak at this moment. The King sighed inwardly. At this moment, he inexplicably recalled Xiao Yunzhou''s advice. ''Old Chu, that poisoned pig needs to be dealt with early, lest it affect the others...'' The King wasn''t injured; he felt no pain anywhere. Yet hey in bed, surrounded by the children of his middle age and the Empress who had shared his joys and sorrows throughout the years. Before him, several imperial physicians hurriedly discussed treatment options. This scene of tension and familial weeping gave the King the illusion that he truly was on his deathbed. If not today, then perhaps some day in the future. The King, a formidable ruler in his own right, couldn''t help but think of his legacy amidst the Crown Prince''s mournful wailing. In life, he believed he had not failed the Chu royal ancestors or his subjects. He could lead troops into battle and manage state affairs with equal diligence. But what of after his death? Would he close his eyes only for the Chu State to be ruined by the Crown Prince he had appointed? Busy with state affairs and years of personal military campaigns, he had neglected the Crown Prince''s education. He and the Empress had spoiled thiste-born only son! If the Chu State were to fall in the future, would all his life''s meticulous nning be in vain? Would his fate be no different from that of Xiao Yunzhou, who spent his days in meditation and yfully teasing his daughter, neglecting his duties? No, the Chu State might end up worse off than Jing Country! The King''s lips twitched. ''You keep hesitating to deal with it, raising that poisoned pig to maturity, even intending to let it breed.'' ''Old Chu, aren''t you creating a massive disaster?'' ''How can your pigsty thrive afterwards? In the future... they''ll all be sick, and you won''t have time to cry, I tell you!'' Recalling Xiao Yunzhou''s words, the King felt a surge of discontent. The sage from Jing Country was incredibly powerful. Jing Country would likely prosper under the sage''s guidance. But the Chu State, after he closed his eyes, would be ruined by an ipetent Crown Prince who listened to the whims of his eunuchs! The King had beenpetitive all his life, defeating neighboring countries. But in the future, his son would squander his legacy. The mere thought infuriated him! As the King pondered this, listening to the Crown Prince''s wailing pleas of "Father, open your eyes and look at your son," he couldn''t suppress his anger. He wanted to leap from the bed and strike the Crown Prince''s head! The matter of the Crown Prince''s attempt on his life hadn''t been fully investigated yet, so he set that aside for now. But the Crown Prince''s ipetence and weakness, being manipted by a group of eunuchs, enraged the King! How could the Crown Prince possibly contend with the sage from Jing Country? ''Old Chu, besides the 30% price reduction, you should also change your preference for sons over daughters. It''s all for your own good.'' ''If you don''t heed heaven''s will, you''ll surely face retribution.'' Xiao Yunzhou''s words from that day mysteriously echoed in the King''s ears again. The King nced at the weeping Crown Prince by his bedside, then at Princess Yunwu, her eyes red but holding back tears, and felt his heart shake violently. Could this advice also be a hint from the Jing Country sage to him, the King of Chu? If he continued to forcefully favor sons over daughters, propping up this hopeless fool of a Crown Prince, would he be going against heaven''s will, bringing harm not only to himself but to the entire Chu State? As this thought struck him, the King''s hands began to tremble slightly. "Chief Physician Liu, how is my father?" the Crown Prince quickly inquired. The King closed his eyes. Chief Physician Liu kept his head bowed, not daring to look up. Behind him knelt three or four other imperial physicians. They took turns checking the pulse before finally agreeing on a prescription. "His Majesty has broken his spine in the fall. I''m not certain, but we can try medication and acupuncture for now." "Useless fool!" The Crown Prince''s face twitched, his eyes betraying a sh of joy, which he quickly suppressed. He stood up and kicked the Chief Imperial Physician to the ground. "What use are you all?" The Crown Prince''s fleeting glimpse of hope and expectation went unnoticed by the Empress and Princess Yunwu seated on either side, and the kneeling physicians. But the King, lying on the bed, saw the Crown Prince''s joy clearly from his vantage point! The King''s eyes bulged in an instant, his breathing bing rapid. "Hurry up and write the prescription, go brew the medicine!" the Crown Prince berated the physicians. He then turned to dismiss Princess Yunwu, "Royal Sister, Father has been the victim of an assassination attempt, and the culprit has not yet been questioned. I must ask you to endure confinement in your original Qiong Pce!" Princess Yunwu was about to speak in anger when the Crown Prince shot her a fierce look. "Royal Sister, I am the Crown Prince. Do you dare disobey my orders?" "Guards!" In an instant, four of the Crown Prince''s personal guards surrounded Princess Yunwu. Princess Yunwu gritted her teeth, somewhat suspicious of the Crown Prince. She was about to call her personal guards to resist when she suddenly felt something lightly kicking the hem of her skirt at the foot of the bed. Princess Yunwu was startled. As her gaze shifted slightly, she saw the King of Chu lying on the bed with his eyes tightly closed, yet he suddenly winked at her. In an instant, Princess Yunwu''s heart was in turmoil. She lowered her head and said, "Fine, I''ll leave then." She quickly cast a lingering nce at the King of Chu, only to find him still with his eyes closed. Conflicted, she turned and left. By noon, heavy guards were stationed at the King of Chu''s bedchamber, not even allowing a mosquito to fly in. At the King of Chu''s bedside, only the filial Crown Prince and the Empress of Chu remained, without even a single physician left behind. The Crown Prince, putting on a filial act, said, "Mother, let me feed Father the medicine. I haven''t had many chances to show my filial piety." As he spoke, he pretended to wipe away tears and took a bowl of medicinal soup brought in by a eunuch from the outer door, bringing it to the King of Chu''s lips. But just as the soup was about to flow into the King of Chu''s mouth¡ª Suddenly, a hand reached out from beside the bed! "Your Highness, allow me," said Ji Duan, the Chancellor, who had appeared out of nowhere, standing alongside the returning Chief Imperial Physician. "Who¡ªwho let you in?!" The Crown Prince of Chu''s hand shook violently, spilling all the medicinal soup onto the King of Chu''s bed. The Chief Imperial Physician stepped forward, examining and sniffing the spilled medicine on the King''s bed. Then, meeting the King of Chu''s already open and piercing tiger-like eyes, he trembled and knelt down. "Your Majesty, this bowl of medicine is not the prescription I prepared this morning!" "It''s a strongxative!" The King of Chu closed his eyes in pain for a moment, then said, "Summon Princess Yunwu and the ministers of the Inner Cab for an audience." "I will disinherit this unfilial beast!" [Oh wow, how exciting! Princess Yunwu is finally going to rise up!] Watching the live stream from afar, Xiao Chuchu''s heart instantly burst into fireworks. [Oh my god, holy crap! The system says we''ve initiated the first recovery of an imperial elite character¡ªthe King of Chu, upying ten slots, damn it!] [The progress jumped straight to 80%! My goodness!] Xiao Yunzhou had just picked up his teacup, only to spill it all over his legs in an instant. What? Ancestors above! Even the emperor of a neighboring country can be won over?! Chapter 203 [King of Chu: Recovery progress 80%.] Xiao Chuchu looked at the system and couldn''t help but silently recite in her heart. [This hero has an extremely significant influence on the Chu State. Once recovered, Jing Country will gain Chu State''s friendship for the next fifty years.] Fifty years? Xiao Yunzhou, hearing his fairy daughter''s voice, couldn''t help but take a sharp breath. The King of Chu was already a sixty-year-old man. Could he still reign for fifty years? No, that''s not how it works! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened as he quickly realized that if the King of Chu were saved, the next generation''s sessor, Princess Yunwu, would maintain a grateful heart towards Jing Country. This includes the current court officials of Chu State. If they knew that the King of Chu was saved due to Jing Country''s help, they would also feel grateful towards Jing Country in the future. One generation could at least influence the next. Fifty years. Xiao Yunzhou was very satisfied with this number. Meanwhile, Xiao Chuchu continued to silently read the system prompts, which brought more good news: [Hero character King of Chu: Will support Jing Country without harming Chu State''s interests.] [King of Chu''s innate skill: Chu State Domination Aura ¡ª Upon sessful recovery of this character, this aura will automatically activate. Jing Country''s people, goods, technology, culture, etc., will henceforth gain a 20% likability bonus from Chu State''s citizens.] These inner thoughts, involving skills, auras, and numbers, took Xiao Yunzhou some time to understand. Afterprehending, Xiao Yunzhou was ecstatic! The King of Chu actually brought a skill that no other elite character had. [Wow, that''s awesome! The Chu State Domination Aura. Once we put it on, doesn''t it mean that the people of Chu State will have a filter for our Jing Country?] Xiao Chuchu was also delighted. [My Emperor father in Jing Country might not be liked by everyone there.] Xiao Yunzhou: "..." His daughter was good in every way, except for her tendency to speak the brutal truth in her thoughts! In the past, he focused on cultivating the Dao every day, and indeed relied on bncing his ministers to handle many affairs. Unlike now, when he often personally attends to matters, visiting military camps and Xun City. It was... normal that the people of Jing Country didn''t particrly like him as their emperor before. The more Xiao Yunzhou thought about it, the more he blushed. [Hrious! In the future, when Emperor father parades through Chu State, he might be liked by every Chu person, haha!] [This Chu State Domination Aura is so useful. Let''s quickly open Jing Country''s specialty shops in Chu State!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up when he heard this. Indeed, they needed to act quickly. Once the aura took effect, they should immediately promote Jing Country''s specialty products to these Chu State citizens who now had a favorable impression of them. Thinking about this, Xiao Yunzhou didn''t dare to bezy anymore. He quickly called Wei Zheng to summon the important ministers to discuss the matter. "My beloved ministers, I''ve called you here today to discuss how to fleece money from the Chu State citizens..." Chancellor Fu Cha and Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue widened their eyes in shock. Xiao Chuchu, in her cradle, opened her small, rosy mouth in surprise. Xiao Yunzhou suddenly realized he had spoken his thoughts aloud and quickly corrected himself, "Ahem, what I mean is, how to work with the Chu State citizens to make money together with our Jing Country." While Xiao Yunzhou was nning in Jing Country, things were already in an uproar in Chu State! The Crown Prince of Chu had been deposed, and his four close eunuchs had all been beheaded. The King of Chu quickly threw the deposed prince out of the pce, confining him to his residence and ordering him not to leave. Within two days, Princess Yunwu was summoned to the pce. Father and daughter looked at each other, unable to hold back their tears. "Yun Wu, when I deposed the Crown Prince that day, there were ministers present, so I couldn''t exin in detail," the King of Chu said, after having someone offer his daughter a seat. "I''ve made up my mind to follow the advice of the Jing Country expert, to value daughters over sons, and establish you as my sessor." Yunwu raised her head in disbelief. What? Value daughters over sons? That Jing Country expert had actually persuaded, no, advised her father like this. And her father believed it? The King of Chu, who had nearly died twice, now fully trusted the Jing Country expert. Both life-threatening crises had been predicted by the expert, and now the King only wanted to seek peace for himself and stability for Chu State''s fortunes. "Yun Wu, you and that unfilial son are the only two biological children of mine and the Empress." "That beast is unfit to rule, which aligns with the expert''s guidance in the secret letter ¡ª never value sons over daughters." The King of Chu wasn''t afraid to tell Princess Yunwu these things. "I''m already over sixty now." The King of Chu lowered his voice and patted Princess Yunwu''s shoulder. "In the future, I don''t know how long I can apany you." "So, Yun Wu, you must remember what your father is telling you today." "As long as there are experts in Jing Country, there will be heavenly assistance. Our Chu State should also follow heaven''s will and not be enemies with Jing." "Yun Wu, in the future, you must never provoke the Jing Country experts!" "When necessary, you canmunicate more with Xiao Yunzhou, cater to the preferences of the Jing Country experts, and employ more women." These were the lessons the King of Chu had learned from this experience. Princess Yunwu didn''t know the specific content of the expert''s secret letter to her father, but she knew it must be extraordinarily important! Only if the letter was extremely important, even affecting the country''s fate, would it make her father, whom she remembered as always being brave, develop such respect for the expert. Yunwu couldn''t help but sit up straight and nod solemnly. But hearing thetter part, she couldn''t help but make a strange expression. "Employ more women? Father, did the Jing Country expert really say that?" The King of Chu waved his hand, "I haven''t met the expert. It was all ryed by that Xiao Yunzhou." Princess Yunwu froze in her seat, her beautiful eyes shining brightly. Somehow, she thought of everything she had seen in Jing Country ¡ª men taking care of children, women resting. Women could also freely go out to work, treat patients, without regard for gender distinctions. Allws and regtions treated men and women equally! Princess Yunwu responded excitedly in an instant, "Father, your daughter will certainly remember your teachings today!" She didn''t care who this Jing Country expert really was. She only knew that this expert valued women throughout the world, giving them a path. Yunwu vowed that she would implement this path in her lifetime, creating a free world for the women of Chu State! Yunwu clenched her fists, full of ambition. Seeing her like this, the King of Chu felt that she had more courage and ambition than the ipetent Crown Prince, and nodded with satisfaction. "Come, draft a decree. I will go on an inspection tour in disguise." "Princess Yunwu will handle state and military affairs on my behalf." Yunwu was stunned. [Wow, Princess Yunwu''s favorability towards Jing Country suddenly rose to 100%.] Xiao Chuchu, ying with a red string on her bed, unexpectedly heard the system''s celebratory announcement. [This elite character was suddenly sessfully collected just now! Let me see, she also has an innate skill!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. It really was a case of good thingsing in pairs! [Although Princess Yunwu wasn''t born as the crown prince, she was ambitious from a young age. She secretly eavesdropped on the crown prince''s tutor''s lessons by crouching outside the window, thus cultivating her own royal talents.] [Princess Yunwu''s innate ability: Hidden Dragon ¡ª Before gaining an overwhelming advantage, enemy countries will not perceive Jing Country as a threat. The possibility of Jing Country secretly increasing its national power while lying low increases by 20%.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. This ability was excellent. Secretly improving? By the time the enemies realize it, it''ll be toote. [Isn''t this just ying dumb to catch the enemy off guard? Princess Yunwu, I didn''t expect you to be like this.] Xiao Chuchu was amused. But in an instant, she became even more delighted. [Oh my, the system says I''ve collected one imperial-level elite and one and a half semi-imperial-level elites. Now it''s rewarding me with ten chances to draw prizes.] Xiao Yunzhou immediately rubbed his hands in anticipation. But in a moment, both he and Xiao Chuchu were stunned. [Oh goodness, what''s this?] [I actually drew three romance novels about chasing after wives in disastrous situations, and one male-oriented novel about an arrogant protagonist?] [CEO: Did Madam make a mistake? Butler: No, Madam has acquired the neighboring corporation and sent over divorce papers.] [Hahahahaha!] Xiao Chuchu burst outughing. [Oh my gosh, ancient men, tremble in fear!] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Chapter 204 ["The CEO, Have You Admitted Your Mistake Today?"] [...] ["Techniques of Acting for Film and Television"] ["Stage Design..."] ["MSG Production"] ["Criminal Psychology Research"] ... Xiao Chuchuy in her swaddling clothes, drawing prizes, her eyes growing brighter. She discovered that this time, in her ten consecutive draws, she had hit the jackpot on all of them. She obtained four modern novels and six skill-based books. Perhaps it was due to receiving the blessing of an imperial elite, but her luck had reached its peak at this moment. "Marvelous!" Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but p his hands in delight upon hearing about so many celestial texts from the Immortal Realm. Xiao Chuchu''s inner monologue abruptly stopped, and her delicate little face turned to look quizzically at her father who had suddenly spoken. [What''s Dad so happy about? He''sughing even more exaggeratedly than me, and I just won all ten draws.] Xiao Yunzhou felt a moment of embarrassment, and looking up, he realized that apart from Wei Zheng standing at the door, the study was empty. Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat, "Wei Zheng... your posture is marvelous!" "???" Wei Zheng let out a confused sound, his eyes bewildered. "Ahem, you''ve reminded me. The Ministry of Justice mentioned some unsolved casesst time. I''ve just had some new ideas." Wei Zheng grew even more confused, but his sycophantic instincts quickly kicked in. Beaming, he said, "This humble servant was just standing randomly, yet Your Majesty could associate it with serial murder cases. Truly brilliant!" "..." Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. [Oh, speaking of serial murder cases, I just remembered. I drew some forensic autopsy and coroner skill books a while ago. I wonder if the people at the Ministry of Justice in Jing Country have had any epiphanies yet~] Xiao Chuchu had grown ustomed to it. All the skill books she obtained through drawing would manifest in the world as sudden inspirations for the talented individuals of Jing Country. This was the butterfly effect of her transmigration, the buff rewards brought by the system''s prize draws. Xiao Chuchu no longer worried about how she should strive to make an effort. She just needed to lie there and draw skill books, and that was it. It was quite satisfying. After all, she was just a baby. What could one expect a baby to do? [Being a cker is my destiny~] [Come on, people at the Ministry of Justice.] [And what about the firearms and gunpowder development skill books I drewst time? Hasn''t my uncle figured it out yet?] [The talented people of Jing Country, hurry up and work hard. And those talented individuals attracted from Chu State...] Xiao Chuchu''s inner monologue began to take stock. Xiao Yunzhou suddenly felt he had no right to remain seated. With his daughter''s stream of thoughts, he realized he hadn''tpleted a pile of tasks! "Wei Zheng, where are the casespiled by the Ministry of Justice? And the coroner''s autopsy experience book? They submitted one volumest time, saying it wasn''t finished yet. Where are these things?" "Yes, I''ll go and expedite them right away." "Also, the Ministry of Works said they had further research on gunpowder. Liu Runnian submitted a memorial, but it only had preliminary ideas. What about the follow-up? Go and hurry them along." "Yes, I''ll..." "And the Ministry of Personnel, have they drafted a policy for employing special talents from Chu State who are willing toe to our Jing Country to realize their ambitions, regardless of disabilities, appearance, age, or gender?" "Uh, I''ll go and ask right away!" "What about the Ministry of Revenue? The people of Chu State enjoy our roast duck and pork. When does the Ministry n to start selling in Chu State? Have they solved the supply issues?" "The Ministry of War, how''s the military training going? Any progress in the mutual learning with the Grasnd Duoti?" Xiao Yunzhou fired off a series of urgent inquiries. Wei Zheng, sweating profusely, ran in and out of the hall repeatedly to transmit imperial edicts and urge the Six Ministries and the Cab! By sunset, the entire Cab and Six Ministries of Jing Country, as well as Xiao Yunzhou himself, were so busy they couldn''t straighten their backs, their minds hazy from overuse. Xiao Chuchu woke up after several naps and, seeing everyone''s exhausted state, finally felt a bit ashamed of her own idleness. [What can I do to help everyone?] At her core, Xiao Chuchu was still a conscientious adult. [Everyone is so tired and busy, while I''m just lying here.] Silly girl. Xiao Yunzhou, finished with his work, was exhausted, his back aching. But hearing his daughter''s thoughtful words, he felt all his fatigue vanish. "Chancellor Fu Cha, I now understand what you said years ago about treating the people as a parent would treat their children." "Back then, I had no children, so naturally, I didn''t understand the principles of being a father. But now, no matter how busy or tired I am, just one look at the little princess makes me feel it''s all worth it." "As long as the little princess is happy, I feel like I have inexhaustible energy." As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, he took a break from the policy discussion to pick up Chuchu from her cradle and press his forehead against hers. These words moved Xiao Chuchu, and they were like a beam of light, bringing her new ideas. The next moment, Chancellor Fu Cha and the other ministers of the Six Ministries, already ustomed to the Emperor''s parental affection, put on airs and agreed, "It''s all for the children, for the people. We feel the same as Your Majesty." Xiao Chuchu was infected by the fatherly attitude permeating the study, but also felt it was a bit too heavy. [Parents who treat their children well often don''t seek repayment from their children.] [Sometimes children take this love for granted and forget to be filial and considerate towards their parents.] [Woof, the system let me draw modern novels, acting, and stage-rted books this time. Could these entertainment rewards be reminding me that it''s time to add some rxing entertainment activities for these hardworking ancient people?] Xiao Chuchu felt she had an epiphany! It''s worth noting that previously, the system''s prize draws had always been about technology and skills for daily life. This was the first time she got entertainment-rted novels. Xiao Chuchu felt she was probably right. [This system is quite intelligent, knowing that our Jing Country has been developing for some time now.] [Whether it''s the court officials or themon people of Jing Country raising pigs and ducks or farming, everyone has been working hard. So it gives me entertainment rewards.] ["Techniques of Acting for Film and Television"], ["The Art of Stage Design..."], plus one male-oriented cultivation novel with an overbearing protagonist, and a romance novel about chasing after an ex-wife.] [This considers the different tastes of male and female audiences in Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu''s grape-like big eyes sparkled brightly. [Jing Country can develop an entertainment industry now! Web novels,ics, stage ys, storytelling in taverns.] Xiao Yunzhou, who had just pressed his forehead against his daughter''s, didn''t dare to move carelessly as he was led by these inner thoughts. He pricked up his ears, involuntarily imagining along with his little princess''s thoughts. ["We need to secure the copyright for these print novels andics. We''ll sell them not only in Jing Country but also spread them to neighboring countries, allowing Jing Country''s book publishers and novel writers to make money."] ["Once these novels andics be famous in Jing Country and neighboring countries, bing major IPs, we can have carefully selected and trained opera troupes perform stage ys and tour various ces."] ["This way, we not only collect ticket revenue and generate ie for Jing Country, but also increase entertainment options for the people of Jing Country and neighboring countries."] ["Thus, we can make money, provide entertainment, and spread Jing Country''s unique culture to everyone in the world!"] ["In the future, when people think of stage ys and novels, they''ll think of our Jing Country!"] ["Jing Country will be thergest entertainment industry country!"] Xiao Yunzhou stared in amazement. Although he didn''t understand some of the Immortal Realm vocabry, he grasped the little princess''s vision for the entertainment industry! Making money, increasing people''s happiness, and spreading culture¡ªkilling three birds with one stone. What was he waiting for? Earlier, Xiao Yunzhou hadn''t thought about immediately memorizing the "chasing wife crematorium" books his daughter mentioned. Now, he listened as if hearing divine wisdom! ["Hmm, let me see. This ''Dragon Pride Cultivates Immortality'' novel and this ''Chasing Wife Crematorium'' novel are quite good."] ["''CEO, Have You Apologized Today?'' could be adapted to a Jing Country setting as ''Capital City''s Richest Man, Have You Apologized Today?''"] ["Chapter One: Contract Marriage..."] ["Chapter Thirteen: Running Away Pregnant..."] ["Chapter Twenty: She''s Back..."] ["Chapter Forty-Two: I Just Borrowed Your Seed!"] ["Chapter Fifty-Three: I Don''t Need a Rich Man, I Can Be Rich Myself!"] Xiao Yunzhou memorized while staring in disbelief. This... this book, would it really be okay to write and publish under the emperor''s name!? Wouldn''t all the wealthy men in the world rise up against him? Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows twitched. After a while, he coughed lightly. "Wei Zheng, go and summon the top schr." Chapter 205 Xiao Yunzhou made a mental note of the fifty chapters of the "Chasing Wife to the Crematorium" story that his daughter had silently read today. [Oh, the novel is so good! But why can I only read fifty chapters today?] Xiao Chuchu grumbled dissatisfied, [How annoying, the system says I''m under eighteen, so I can only read fifty chapters a day.] [And I can only start reading at two in the afternoon. They say the morning is the best time of the day, but I can''t read in the morning or at night. This is so frustrating.] Xiao Chuchu never imagined that in modern times, not only were there restrictions on ying games, but even reading novels had time limits after transmigrating. As sheined, Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes gradually lit up, remembering the time his daughter read novels every day. ... When the top schr Zheng Qiru came to the study to have an audience with Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, he found him coaxing his daughter to sleep. "You''re here?" Xiao Yunzhou quickly stood up, walked to the desk, and pushed the outline of the fifty chapters he had written down towards Zheng Qiru. "Write a story for me." Zheng Qiru was taken aback but respectfully epted the paper. However, when he lowered his head and saw the contents of the paper in his hand, he was dumbfounded. What was this? A girl enters into a marriage contract with a wealthy gentleman, but the man doesn''t understand how to love, breaking the girl''s heart. The girl resolutely divorces the wealthy gentleman, and returns five yearster with twins who bear a striking resemnce to the wealthy man! She sits in a gold and silver-carved sedan chair, apanied by guards and enforcers, standing mercilessly before the wealthy gentleman, holding her adorable children, and deres, ''I only came to you for insemination...'' Zheng Qiru skimmed through it, his jaw nearly dropping! He pinched himself hard, looking at the emperor in disbelief. What on earth was this? The emperor wanted him to write something like this? What was the significance of this story? He, a top schr, and the emperor wanted him to write this bizarre biographical story? Zheng Qiru''s expression changed from bewilderment to pallor in a matter of moments. Could it be that the emperor ultimately despised his ugly appearance? After the Xun City literary gathering ended and the talents from the Chu State were recruited, would his ugly face no longer be valued? Zheng Qiru had lived in the pain of being mocked for his appearance for too long, and at this moment, he wavered again. But just as he was about to doubt himself, he heard Xiao Yunzhou smile and say, "I heard from Concubine Liu that you once publicly reprimanded a husband who beat his wife and children, and even dered to the magistrate that thew of thend should apply equally to women and men." Zheng Qiru was stunned, as it was indeed true. But as soon as he nodded, he suddenly seemed to realize something, "Your Majesty, could it be that you want me to write this story in rtion to that incident of the husband beating his wife?" Xiao Yunzhou''s smile widened. Indeed, this was a talent whose intelligence was recognized by the little princess. "That''s right." Xiao Yunzhou nodded, then walked out from behind the desk with a serious tone, sping his hands behind his back and facing the setting sun. "That day, I gave Concubine Liu a long whip that could be used to strike men, and I also ordered the Ministry of Justice to amend thew to punish that violent husband." Xiao Yunzhou turned around, bathed in sunlight, looking at Zheng Qiru, and let out a light sigh, "But do you know, my dear official? Even with legal constraints, even with Concubine Liu''s whip, we can''t save every woman in the world." "I can''t make people instantly change to have the character to respect, love, and value their wives and daughters." Xiao Yunzhou''s gaze was filled with pain, "And as long as they don''t change, there will always be heartbroken women suffering." "I''m anxious about this." Zheng Qiru listened, his whole body trembling, "So Your Majesty, you want me, as the top schr, to write such a story to influence the literati andmon people to treat their wives and daughters well?" "That''s right," Xiao Yunzhou walked in front of him and said solemnly, "My dear official, can I entrust you with this task? Can the future path of millions of women in this world be zed by the pen of you, the top schr?" Zheng Qiru''s lips were trembling. To use his pen to open a path for all the women in the world?! He had been studying for more than a decade, but he never imagined that one day he could do such a great thing! To create a path that no one had ever walked before! "Perhaps one day, women will also be able to study and take the imperial examinations," Xiao Yunzhou continued to paint a grand picture for Zheng Qiru, "This novel outline I''ve given you, ''Does the Wealthy Gentleman Realize His Mistake Today?'', is meant to use your talented pen as the top schr to give confidence to all the women in the world. Not just wealthy gentlemen, even if it''s bing a top schr, they can do it if they want to, without having to rely on men or husbands!" Zheng Qiru opened his mouth, trembling as he looked up, and saw that Xiao Yunzhou''s face seemed to be covered with ayer of golden light, his majesty indiscernible. It was as if it were holy light, or a clear spring, enlightening Zheng Qiru''s entire being in an instant! That''s right, it was like this. Let the women of the world have faith first, and then strive to take the first step towards self-improvement! When women be strong, men will no longer be able to stand in front of them as obstacles. "So that''s it, Your Majesty''s intentions are profound, I am ashamed that I couldn''t understand earlier." Zheng Qiru bowed his head, blushing. He had previously suspected that the emperor didn''t want to use him and was just giving him a trivial task of writing a nonsensical story. Zheng Qiru felt guilty and ashamed, both for his shallowness and for his suspicion and fragility. "Your Majesty, I will not fail this mission. I will return home today and work tirelessly, striving to write out these fifty chapters as soon as possible!" Zheng Qiru was eager to start, wishing he could go home to write right away. Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou nodded with satisfaction, "Good, start writing quickly, there are more than 360 chapters toe." "???" Zheng Qiru was dumbfounded. Was this such a massive work with so many words? Did the emperore up with this all by himself? How did he manage to do it?! [Yo, I just took a short nap, and the Emperor Father haspletely won over the top schr Zheng Qiru, to the point of absolute loyalty?] When Xiao Chuchu woke up, it waspletely dark outside. [My father has gathered five absolutely loyal followers! He has finally achieved the reward and can randomly increase one attribute by 20%.] [Intelligence, martial prowess, charm, endurance, physical strength, which one should be increased?] After sending off the top schr, Xiao Yunzhou sat alone reading memorials untilte at night. He had just put down a cup of strong tea when he froze. He didn''t dare move! Heavens! Heaven was bestowing grace upon him, about to grant him divine power! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes were full of radiance, barely able to contain his wild joy! Intelligence, he had wanted to improve that for a long time. Martial prowess wouldn''t be bad either. Although he didn''t engage inbat much, who wouldn''t want to be stronger? Charm, he wasn''t sure what that meant, probably bing more handsome? This... A pained expression appeared on Xiao Yunzhou''s face. If he suddenly became as handsome as a young man overnight, wouldn''t the court officials think he was some kind of monster? Oh my, even though he really wanted to be handsome... Xiao Yunzhou was deeply conflicted, unable to resist letting out a drowsy yawn. He had been reviewing official documents until the wee hours of the morning, his head feeling as heavy as a ball of dough. Despite persevering until now, he still needed to carefully consider which attribute to enhance, and he was utterly exhausted. But he had to keep going! Xiao Yunzhou fought against his drowsiness, biting his tongue to force himself to stay awake. Just then, he heard his daughter''s inner thoughts. [Hiss, the random enhancementnded on stamina!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened in an instant, realizing she couldn''t choose for him. [Emperor Father''s stamina, permanently increased by 20%!] Xiao Yunzhou was immediately disappointed. What use was stamina¡ª But just as he began toin, he suddenly felt his drowsiness vanishpletely. Moreover, he had a sensation of being ten years younger. His body felt lighter too! Well, I''ll be damned, he had the strange feeling that he might not need sleep anymore! [Stamina enhancement reward: From now on, you won''t fear staying upte. You can even go without sleep asionally. You''re now the chosen one for overtime work.] Xiao Chuchu looked at this reward, utterly shocked. [From now on, as long as it doesn''t kill him, Emperor Father can work himself to the bone.] Xiao Yunzhou: "...!" The next day, the top-scoring schr with his draft in hand, along with the civil and military officials preparing for the morning court session, all with dark circles under their eyes, saw Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, who had stayed up all night reviewing all the memorials. Yet, his face was ruddy, and his eyes were bright and alert. Chapter 206 Upon returning to the capital of Jing Country, Xiao Yunzhou dragged the entire court of officials to work overtime for several days to catch up on progress. As the ministers grew increasingly weary, Xiao Yunzhou became more and more energetic. "Perhaps because my heart is with themon people, I am a hundred times more invigorated. My dear ministers, you must also stay motivated!" Xiao Yunzhou boasted. However, he was still a reasonable emperor who understood the importance of health. He hoped that his capable ministers would live long and stay healthy. So after showing off his "iron will" to stay up all night without fatigue, Xiao Yunzhou gave a light cough. "My dear ministers, please work within your limits. If you feel unwell, tell me, and I''ll have the imperial physician examine you." Xiao Yunzhou looked sympathetically at his ministers, such as the top schr Zheng Qiru with his obvious dark circles from staying upte, and the elderly cab ministers who appeared fatigued. They weren''t like him, after all. He had the little fairy princess using her celestial methods to help him. Poor things. "From now on, when the moon rises to the treetops, you can take your work home toplete." "???" "..." The entire court of Jing Country was speechless. The emperor was getting more and more unreasonable! After the morning court session, Zheng Qiru was summoned alone to the imperial study by Xiao Yunzhou. "Your Majesty,st night I..." Zheng Qiru began to speak while pulling out a thick stack of rice paper from his sleeve to hand to Wei Zheng in the study. But before he could continue, Xiao Yunzhou interrupted him, "Top Schr, is this the masterpiece you mentionedst night that would give voice to all the women in the world?" Zheng Qiru was stunned, almost forgetting what he was about to say. How did it be something he came up with? [Oh ho?] Xiao Chuchu, who was already on the low couch with her swaddling loosened and limbs free to move, immediately turned her delicate little face towards them with interest. [Sister Ji, Ji Chunyue likes Zheng Qiru because he respects women, right?] [So "CEO, Have You Apologized Today?" was enlightened by the chosen one, Zheng Qiru?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but want tough. Thisbination was something she never expected. [Hahaha, the top schr writing a romance novel?] Xiao Yunzhou gave a light cough. Weren''t those kinds of works in the celestial realm written by top schrs? But celestial writings were wisdom beyond mortalprehension for the mortal world. Xiao Yunzhou thought that Jing Country should take this celestial masterpiece with the utmost seriousness. It should be written by the most knowledgeable people in Jing Country. This way, they could best present the beauty of this celestial writing. With this in mind, Xiao Yunzhou nodded to the confused and honest Zheng Qiru, "I''m very curious about this treasure of a text that the Top Schr says can change the lives of our citizens." "If it''s useful, I will definitely support the Top Schr." Zheng Qiru, with his intelligence of 91, understood in an instant that Xiao Yunzhou didn''t want the world to know that it was he, the emperor, who came up with this chase-wife-to-the-crematorium... ahem, this work that would make women of the world stand up. The emperor wanted to give the credit to him, the top schr. Letting schrs do schrly work, the emperor didn''t want to be associated with the text, forcing the citizens to read it. Realizing this, Zheng Qiru was deeply moved. He looked at the emperor with great admiration and said, "Thank you, Your Majesty!" Xiao Yunzhou modestly waved his hand. Ever since his daughter had drawn that "Method of Acting" celestial manual yesterday, he understood better how to perform. At that moment, he took the stack of rice paper written by Zheng Qiru from Wei Zheng''s hands. He stood up and walked from behind his desk to Chuchu''s low couch to read. [Damn, that''s a thick stack. Let me take a look.] Xiao Chuchu''s delicate little face secretly turned a bit more. Fortunately, her infant body''s eyesight remained at a perfect 20/13 level. At a nce, she could clearly see Top Schr Zheng Qiru''s neat handwriting on the rice paper. [Wow, I never thought I''d be able to read web novels in such beautiful calligraphy.] Xiao Yunzhou didn''t immediately understand what a "web novel" was. Could it be a very impressive writing style in the celestial realm? Like parallel prose? Xiao Yunzhou felt a bit nervous, not knowing if the Top Schr''s level would satisfy his daughter with her fairy-like standards. "Your Majesty, I wrote ten chaptersst night. If it''s eptable, I''ll continue writing tonight when I return home," Zheng Qiru honestly reported, not daring to conceal his progress. [Damn, I didn''t expect the Top Schr to be an octopus writer.] [Bursting out ten chapters in a single day?] Xiao Chuchu was impressed. [Indeed, to each his own craft. Even if someone else smashed their face on a keyboard, they couldn''t possibly write ten chapters.] [Let me take a look.] Xiao Chuchu became even more interested, but after just reading the first chapter as Xiao Yunzhou turned the pages, she was holding backughter so hard that her internal organs nearly cramped. [Good grief, the female lead of the first chapter''s contract marriage has been changed by the Top Schr into a fifteen-year-old girl who fled a flood disaster, leaving her hometown toe to the capital to sell herself to bury her father. She has a clear and pretty appearance, as pitiful as a pear blossom.] [Oh my, I''m dying ofughter! A wealthy gentleman in the capital is attracted by her all-white, slender figure at first sight. He has his steward buy her, and they marry that night, thus avoiding the emperor''s order for him to marry a princess.] [Hahaha, even my dad has a role? Oh my, this princess is the third princess, isn''t she borrowing the title from my current body?] Xiao Yunzhou''s expression turned strange as he looked at the Top Schr. "This princess and the emperor..." Zheng Qiru''s ears turned red. "I couldn''t think of any other reason why the wealthy gentleman must marry this girl. After all, he''s fabulously rich, and surely doesn''tck for suitable brides through parental arrangements and matchmakers." "The only thing that could make him rush into a contract marriage with this girl must be the emperor''s order." [Hahaha,] Xiao Chuchu heard this and was truly holding backughter so hard her little face turned red. [The Top Schr is even pursuing logic, he''s a logical writer~] [So, in the book, I''m the arrogant female supporting character who loves the male lead but can''t have him? My old man and I are the big viins of this book, huh.] Xiao Yunzhou''s temple twitched. He and the little princess had be the viins? The little princess stubbornly likes this wealthy gentleman main character. And he insists on bestowing her in marriage to him? What nonsense! Just thinking about his own Chuchu being married off to a man who buys women on the street made him feel sick to his stomach! "What''s so good about this wealthy gentleman in the first chapter?" Xiao Yunzhou snorted coldly. "I don''t see anything special about him. Apart from having some money, what grand strategies or outstanding abilities does he have that would make me willingly marry the little princess to him?" "Hmph, a man who sees a woman''s appearance on the street and buys her with money - I think he''s not worthy of even a finger of the princess!" Xiao Yunzhou was extremely displeased. "Zheng Qiru, revise this for me. I really don''t like this first chapter." Zheng Qiru was stunned. [Hahaha, how amusing! A VIP reader left a negative review.] Xiao Chuchu was thoroughly amused. Three dayster, the top schr finally finished writing and revising twenty chapters, with dark circles under his eyes to show for it. Not only was Xiao Yunzhou satisfied, but even Xiao Chuchu thought it wasn''t bad. Ten days after that, the first volume of "She Returns with Two Babies Five Years Later" began circting among storytellers in inns and taverns! Moreover, the apanying illustrated album and printed novel officially hit the shelves in various bookshops and art stores! "What''s this?" "What kind of novel is this?" "Hmm? Written by the top schr?" Chapter 207 In the bookshops and art stores, the first volume of a novel written by Zheng Qiru, the top-ranked schr, was on disy everywhere. In thergest bookstore in the capital, Zheng Qiru himself was present, holding a book signing. However, everyone was puzzled by the title "She Returns After Five Years." And on the book cover were written five characters that tranted to "Chasing Wife: Crematorium." "What does it mean? Chasing a wife, why chase a wife?" "Why cremate while chasing a wife?" "Did her husband die?" People couldn''t understand it, but when they opened to the first page, the curious schrs and wealthy young men were stunned. The first page contained several excerpts: ''Herplete trust and devotion to him were repaid with nothing but a divorce paper.'' ''On her birthday, with a high fever and not a penny to her name, she was heartlessly driven out of their home...'' ''Five yearster, she returned, even more powerful and wealthy than he, who was once the richest man in the capital, with millions in silver to her name.'' ''As he looked on with regret, she walked past him with their twin children who bore his features, coldly tossing out a sentence.'' ''Gu Aotian, the children will take my surname. I merely borrowed your seed.'' ''I don''t need to marry into wealth, I can create my own fortune!'' The schrs and rich young men standing in the bookshop, who hade to admire the top schr''s writing, were now thunderstruck! What was this? What on earth was this novel about? Heavens, such an unconventional woman! They hadn''t even read further, but just these excerpts on the title page made their scalps tingle. This woman in the book was forceful in her words and actions, her personality devoid of gentleness, even trampling her husband underfoot. "Has Zheng Qiru gone mad?" "Is there no one to rein in the top schr? Does the Emperor know? Does the Ministry of Personnel know? Is no one going to stop this nonsense?" The schrs and wealthy young men had initially been uninterested when they discovered the top schr had written a novel, thinking his ink wasn''t worth collecting if he wasn''t focusing on proper schrly pursuits! But now, they were all provoked by these short phrases on the title page. "So this is ''Chasing Wife: Crematorium''? Did she cremate her ex-husband? Or did the woman cremate herself?" The schrs and rich young men rolled up their sleeves, unable to resist picking up the thin volume and continuing to read. They had to see just how outrageous Zheng Qiru''s book was, intending to curse him thoroughly! But as they read on, their grumbling grew quieter, while the speed of their page-turning increased. "Selling herself to bury her father... all in white, the wind blowing past, how pitiable she looks." "There''s even such a thing as a contractual marriage? This wealthy gentleman bes physically ufortable when touching women, so he''s long refused to marry. His grandmother, at her wit''s end, threatens suicide, forcing him to reluctantly agree to wed." "But as soon as he goes out, he''s attracted to this woman who sold herself. By her side, he sleeps soundly for the first time, revealing he suffered from insomnia..." "He falls in love with her, without even realizing it himself." These melodramatic plot points,mon in modern CEO romance novels, were entirely new to ancient readers! Although melodramatic and featuring a strong female lead, the fast pace of modern web novels, their satisfying plot twists, and oundish premises captivated these schrs and rich young men who had initiallye to the bookshop intending to criticize harshly. They read it in one breath, without stopping, to the very end! They read every word without skipping, and when finished, they were left wanting more, but also more irritated. "What''s going on? Couldn''t thetter part of this novel be better? Did the ex-husband really get cremated?" "She even invited handsome actors to perform at home, deliberately provoking her ex-husband, right?" "I don''t believe she has absolutely no feelings left for Gu Aotian." "What? It ends with ''To know what happens next, please stay tuned for the next installment''? It''s not finished!?" "No way, where''s Zheng Qiru? Did they reconcile in the end, or did she end up with someone else!?" "He likes her too, he just didn''t use the right methods. They should get back together." Zheng Qiru, who had been sitting in thergest bookshop, had prepared himself to be scolded by men and criticized by some pedantic schrs. Instead, he found himself surrounded by people demanding to know the novel''s ending. "Did Gu Aotian die in the end? I can''t ept that!" "Where''s the rest of the story? Zheng Qiru, you must be hiding the remaining handwritten manuscript! What''s the ending? I must see it today!" A crowd surrounded Zheng Qiru, who felt embarrassed. He didn''t know the ending of the story either! The Emperor had only given him the outline up to chapter 120, and this first volume only went up to chapter 70. ording to the Emperor, there were still over 200 chapters toe. Zheng Qiru truly had no idea how the story would develop. "Well..." Zheng Qiru looked at the eager, curious faces before him, sincerely admiring Emperor Xiao Yunzhou. How did hee up with such an extraordinary story? "Everyone, I don''t know either." The people in the bookstore nearly cracked Zheng Qiru''s skull open. Zheng Qiru hurriedly backed away, "The final fate of Miss Su depends entirely on her. I''m just the writer, but the characters'' endings are determined by the characters themselves." Miss Su referred to the novel''s female protagonist. "Are you kidding? You wrote it, how can you not know?" "Miss Su? She''s already married with children, why still call her ''Miss''? Are you saying they never got back together in the end?" The men in the bookshop were furious, "So you mean Gu Aotian is the one in the crematorium? You really cremated him?" Zheng Qiru coughed lightly. The Emperor hadn''t said, but he also felt that things didn''t look good for Gu Aotian. After all, Miss Su was so formidable, why would she need Gu Aotian? Was it for his bad temper, or for his insomnia? Zheng Qiru looked at the men in the bookshop and sighed, "One begets two, two begets three, and three begets all things... Gentlemen, let nature take its course. Don''t be impatient. When I write to that point, you''ll naturally know." "!" "...!" "You rascal!" Zheng Qiru''s words set the bookshop into an uproar. Someone rallied the crowd, "Brothers, I know where the top schr Zheng Qiru lives. From today on, if he doesn''t finish writing, I''ll camp outside his door!" "Count me in!" "Damn you, Zheng Qiru! If you don''t give Gu Aotian a proper resolution, I won''t leave either. I''ll sit at your house too!" Zheng Qiru''s mouth twitched. He never imagined it would turn out like this. The bookshop, already mostly frequented by male customers, was now packed with men in an uproar. Most of the men cursed while reading, engrossed in the story but unwilling to put it down. Just as Zheng Qiru was worrying about his inability to influence women, themotion from the bookshops and storytelling at teahouses began to spread to the women as well. Many male customers who just read and left without buying books were increasing, but more and more female customers were making purchases. "So during those five missing years, she saved the princess and was taken into the pce to study together!" "The emperor was grateful that she saved the princess and, seeing her kindness and ambition, adopted her as his goddaughter!" "When she returned after five years, she had be a princess herself!" The female customers read on with excitement, "No wonder she came back with so many guards in the second chapter and taught those managers and inws who used to bully her a lesson!" "Ah, all daughters should aspire to be like Su Chuchu!" [Pfft... So the emperor dad and I ended up bing the female lead''s blessing.] [Well, well, the female lead even shares my name.] Xiao Chuchu finally finished reading the first volume with Xiao Yunzhou''s help. Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue was also beaming with joy, "Your Majesty, our capital''s bookstores are about to sell outpletely." "We need to urgently print more copies!" "The first batch of books being shipped to Chu State should arrive at their capital tomorrow!" Xiao Chuchu''s eyes sparkled, [Roar, let this fire of web novels¡ªahem, I mean, the fire of women''s rise¡ªspread far and wide!] But Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue soon frowned, "However, Your Majesty, many men today only read without buying, not willing to spend a single coin..." Now, whoever doesn''t spend money is the enemy of the Ministry of Revenue! Xiao Yunzhou was displeased upon hearing this. Although the book was written for women, the fact that not a single man was willing to spend money on it made the men of Jing Country seem extremely stingy. It''s worth noting that most of theborers in Jing Country were men. The majority of ie sources came from men. If all these men were unwilling to spend a single coin, it would be very difficult for the national treasury of Jing Country to generate revenue. As Xiao Yunzhou was pondering this, he heard his daughter''s inner thoughts start to chatter. [Since we''ve already released the first volume of a female-oriented romance novel.] [We should also release a male-oriented cultivation fantasy with an overpowered protagonist, like the one I drewst time, "The Fastest Cultivation in History".] [Chapter One: Obtaining the Celestial Herb] [Chapter Two: Drawing Qi into the Body] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes lit up. Chapter 208 Within a few days, news came from the Chu State that the romance novel "She Came Back After Five Years" had sold out in Chu''s bookstores. Princess Yunwu alone ced arge order, pre-purchasing 5,000plete sets, saying she wanted to read them herself and give them as gifts. Moreover, the Sisters of the Ji Family, having received the news early, rushed to open a bookstore in anticipation of obtaining the first batch of distribution rights for subsequent volumes. "Your Majesty, who would have thought that our Jing Country''s novels would sell even better in the Chu State," said Jiang Li from the Ministry of Revenue. He had been walking with a spring in his step these past few days, speaking with a smile, indicating that the Ministry''s involvement had brought in considerable profits. "Many bookstore owners in Chu have pre-ordered the second volume and requested additional prints of the first. They''ve even paid deposits." "It appears that Chu will ount for the majority of sales this time! Chu''s wealth truly doesn''t disappoint," Jiang Li concluded. Xiao Yunzhou looked at the sales report Jiang Li had submitted, his mouth twitching involuntarily. Jing Country still needed to continue its low-key development. After his report, Jiang Li proposed his next creative idea, "Now that we''re reprinting our novels, we could add phrases about their bestseller status in Jing and Chu on the covers, then sell them to other neighboring countries to expand our market." Since Jing''s unique literary gathering, the Ministry of Revenue seemed to have unlocked new potential,ing up with numerous ideas to increase revenue. Jiang Li was busy and fulfilled every day, but still had higher aspirations for the current situation. "Your Majesty, I believe our most pressing matter now is to increase male consumption." "Thetest survey from the Ministry shows that male consumption in both Jing and Chu has stagnated somewhat." Xiao Yunzhou thought this was perfect timing. "Ahem, Minister Jiang, I''ve actually been considering this issue." "After the top schr left that day, I also thought about how if women can be strong, men should be too. Why not write a novel about male self-improvement?" "As soon as I mentioned it, the Hanlin Academy helped write over a hundred chapters." Xiao Yunzhou felt his acting skills were now at an Oscar-worthy level as he casually said, "Take this book, ''The First Immortal Lord,'' jointly written by eighteen schrs from the Hanlin Academy, and have it printed for sale." "!!" Jiang Li was greatly impressed and hurriedly epted the manuscript with both hands, reverently tucking it into his sleeve. "I will do my utmost to make it happen!" He quickly left the pce and got into his sedan chair. The sedan bearers moved steadily, and before long, they arrived at the Ministry of Revenue. "Master, we''ve arrived." "Minister Jiang, we''re here." "Hmm? Master?" "Minister, are you awake!?" The sedan bearers gradually raised their voices. After waiting for half a cup of tea''s time, they finally couldn''t resist lifting the curtain. They found Minister Jiang Li neither unconscious nor asleep, but rather engrossed in reading the thin manuscript. Even with the curtain lifted, his reading remained uninterrupted. "Don''t rush, let me finish this chapter." "Oh my, wait a bit more, let me get through this crisis." "Ah, this is brilliant, absolutely brilliant! Marvelous!" "Hold on, let me read one more chapter!" The sedan bearers were dumbfounded. It wasn''t until he reached thest page that Minister Jiang finally came to his senses. But the moment he did, he nearly lost hisposure, almost stamping his feet and beating his chest. "How can it end here?" "How can it stop right at the crucial moment of foundation building?" At the entrance of the Ministry of Revenue, Minister Jiang''sments could be heard. "When will the next volume be ready?" "Ending the chapter here, is this deliberate? Eighteen Hanlin Academy schrs!" Jiang Li burst out of the sedan chair, his eyes unfocused. "Someone, go to the Hanlin Academy and demand the next installment! The schrs aren''t allowed to rest until they write!" "You, you, you, copy this immediately and send it to the four major publishing houses for printing, post-haste!" "This is the ultimate novel, it must be a hit, it must!" "Even if the King of Heaven himself came, one couldn''t stop reading!" * In the pce of the Zhou Xing Kingdom, King Zhou Ling was receiving the King of Chu, who had arrived after more than thirty days of spring travels. "Brother Chu, you really believe that Jing Country has great talents? You truly want to establish long-term diplomatic rtions with Jing?" The Zhou Xing Kingdom was located northeast of Jing Country, bordering it in the wilderness. Usually, Zhou Xing didn''t have close ties with Jing, but instead frequently traded copper, iron ore, and grain with Chu on the other side, despite not sharing a border. King Zhou Ling looked at the King of Chu, already in his sixties with graying hair and beard, and felt somewhat dismissive. The King of Chu had aged, not only nning to pass his position to a princess but also seeking to establish rtions with Jing Country. King Zhou Ling sighed inwardly, "We''ve known each other for many years, Brother Chu. Let me warn you, Jing Country can barely fend for itself." The King of Chu narrowed his eyes, "Is there any unusual activity in the surrounding areas? Sheng Country? Yuan Mo?" King Zhou Ling''s gaze flickered, then he chuckled, "Nothing gets past you, you old fox." "The Yuan King has repeatedly asked about the affairs of Jing''s court through my Zhou Xing Kingdom, even inquiring about Xiao Yunzhou''s harem." King Zhou Ling stroked his wine cup. The King of Chu was startled, "Does the Yuan King intend to attack Jing Country?" "I don''t know the Yuan King''s intentions," King Zhou Ling shook his head, but quickly set down his wine cup with a bang, shaking the wooden table. He narrowed his eyes and lowered his voice. "But Brother Chu, after numerous investigations by my spies, guess what I discovered?" King Zhou Ling''s eyes glinted. "The former Imperial Noble Consort of Jing, Xiao Yunzhou''s woman, seems to have once traveled to my Zhou Xing Kingdom for leisure." "It happened to be raining heavily at the time, and she stayed with a peasant family. And guess what, I found out that during that period, the Yuan King''s whereabouts also seemed to be in that area." "What?" The King of Chu was shocked. He had never heard of this before. But did Xiao Yunzhou know about this? Jing Country had great talents who could even predict their own death, let alone matters close to Xiao Yunzhou. After a brief moment of shock, the King of Chu quickly regained hisposure. His calmness surprised King Zhou Ling, "Brother Chu, you know about this and still want to maintain good rtions with Jing?" "Do you know that the former farmhouse has been bought and is now guarded by skilled warriors?" The King of Chu took a deep breath. It seemed the Yuan King had set his sights on Jing''s Imperial Consort. He must be out of his mind. The King of Chu shook his head, "Could it be that the Yuan King wants to steal Xiao Yunzhou''s Imperial Noble Consort?" King Zhou Ling narrowed his eyes, his tone bing grave, "Brother Chu, what you don''t know is that justst year, this Imperial Noble Consort was suddenly demoted to Consort and confined to her pce." The King of Chu was astonished. King Zhou Ling closed his eyes, "Yuan Mo Country is far from Chu, so you might not know, but our Zhou Xing Kingdom is separated from Yuan Mo only by mountains and rivers, with merchant caravans traveling between us from time to time." "I''ve heard that recently, these merchant caravans often see soldiers drilling there." "!!" The King of Chu stood up abruptly. Was the Yuan King preparing to attack Jing Country? All for a woman? The King of Chu''s expression wavered. If so, could Jing Country survive? He had sought good rtions with Jing for two reasons: first, out of respect for their great talents, and second, seeing Jing''s current prosperous development as an opportunity to strengthen Chu alongside them. Chu would not die with Jing! "So, Brother Chu," King Zhou Ling leaned forward, "To be frank, since you''vee to my Zhou Xing Kingdom, I want to hear your opinion as a ruler of a country¡ª" "Is Jing truly worth befriending?" King Zhou Ling asked, emphasizing each word. His gaze couldn''t help but shift towards a confidential letter on his desk. It was from Yuan Mo Country. The Yuan King wanted to borrow a route through Zhou Xing, iming he wanted to conduct long-distance military exercises in the wilderness! Thepensation offered was one million taels of gold! And on the map, just beyond the wilderness areay Jing Country''s territory! "In your opinion, is Yuan Mo stronger, or is Jing?" The King of Chu was momentarily speechless, but quickly took a deep breath, "Would you believe me if I told you?" "Brother Zhou, why don''t you join me in traveling incognito to Jing''s territory and see for yourself?" "?" "!" King Zhou Ling was stunned. Chapter 209 [Oh, the system notified me that another important hero has entered Jing Country.] Xiao Chuchu, lying in her rocking bed, suddenly noticed a new alert from the system. [What important figure? The system didn''t specify.] Xiao Yunzhou put down the progress report on the Ministry of Works'' firearms research, raising an eyebrow with interest. ''An important figure... entering Jing Country.'' From his fairy daughter''s words, it seemed this new hero wasn''t from Jing Country? A map of the Central ins immediately appeared in Xiao Yunzhou''s mind. Which neighboring country could it be? Zhou, Sheng, Qin... or an even more distantnd? Not to brag, but ever since conquering Princess Yunwu of Chu State and nearly gaining the full favor of the Chu emperor, Xiao Yunzhou truly couldn''t muster much interest in ordinary elite characters anymore. Of course, the more elites the better, but Xiao Yunzhou wouldn''t specially put down his work to deliberately pursue them anymore. Indeed, Xiao Chuchu felt the same. After investigating for a while without discovering who this elite was, she lost interest. But not long after, she was startled. [This unnamed important elite''s collection rate has risen to 7%!] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" Huh? He hadn''t even paid attention to this person! [Could this be the legendary self-conquest?] [Goodness, how long has he been in our Jing Country''s territory to self-conquer and let us subdue nearly ten percent of him?] Xiao Yunzhou didn''t know whether tough or cry. How could such a thing happen? Which country bumpkin was this? Had he been shocked by Jing Country''s prosperity upon entering their territory? Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t figure it out. Recently, Xun City on the Jing-Chu border continued to hold its special literary gatherings. ording to reports from the local governor, although it had been over a month, themon people still showed great enthusiasm for the new things at the gatherings. Peddlers from Chu Stateing to Xun City and Chu rtives visiting Jing Country had increased a hundredfoldpared to usual. Buttely, his fairy daughter''s inner voice hadn''t mentioned any new elites for a long time. In a month, besides the King of Chu, Princess Yunwu, and Prime Minister Ji Duan''s twin granddaughters, eight elites from various fields in Chu State had been added to the elite collection handbook. At the same time, during the gatherings, six schrs and merchants from Jing Country had also been included in the elite catalog. But in the past seven days, even though the Xun City gatherings were still ongoing, they gradually stopped attracting new talents. The elite catalog hadn''t moved for a long time, indicating that most of the avable talents in the area had been collected. So at this moment, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t think of "which ce''s people were so inexperienced..." that they would be conquered just by entering Jing Country''s territory. But he had barely said half the sentence when he heard his daughter exim, "Holy crap!" [This mysterious figure''s collection rate has risen to 11%!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes widened. [The system says that at 10%, we can view this mysterious hero''s identity.] [Damn, we even need to spend points to exchange for this person''s information. Who is this great person?] Xiao Yunzhou was so shocked that he put down the report in his hand. It seemed there had never been a situation like this before. This country bumpkin, ahem, mysterious hero was quite unusual. [Fifty points, I''ll pay!] Xiao Chuchu waved her little hand generously, causing Xiao Yunzhou a pang of heartache. It was all fairy power. Xiao Yunzhou felt that no matter how powerful this hero was, it wasn''t worth his little princess spending fairy power. Hadn''t this person foolishly self-conquered? Why should his little princess bother to know this person''s information? Xiao Yunzhou felt distressed, but his concern was quickly interrupted by his fairy daughter''s inner voice! [Damn, fifty points, I wondered who it could be? Turns out he''s just like the King of Chu~] Xiao Chuchu thought. What? Wasting his daughter''s fairy power! Xiao Yunzhou was very angry. So it was just another King of Chu, what''s so impor... Huh? Wait, this guy was like who? Like the King of Chu?! Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. [It''s King Zhou Ling, the Emperor of Zhou Xing. He actually came to our Jing Country incognito?] Xiao Chuchu was amused. [So the King of Chu traveled to Zhou Xing Kingdom and persuaded King Zhou Ling toe along.] What? This country bumpkin who was conquered ten percent by Jing Country upon entering was the King of Zhou? Xiao Yunzhou''s scalp tingled. Two or three yearster, Yuan Mu Country would attack Jing Country by borrowing passage through Zhou Xing Kingdom! [I see, he came to inspect our Jing Country. He has already received an invitation from the Yuan King. If he lends passage to Yuan Mu Country, their Zhou Xing Kingdom would receive a million gold taels and the Yuan King''s gratitude.] [King Zhou Ling came this time to make a choice between our Yuan Mu Country and Jing Country!] Xiao Chuchu was greatly surprised by the information she exchanged from the system. [Is it already close to the three-year doom period in the novel? Or did my arrival cause a butterfly effect... Could it be that the Noble Consort was demoted and confined because Emperor Father woke up, making the Yuan King anxious?] Xiao Yunzhou stared in shock. [Can our Jing Country now offer a price higher than a million gold taels to make the King of Zhou side with my Emperor Father and reject the Yuan King?] Xiao Yunzhou suddenly broke out in a cold sweat. Where would Jing Country''s treasury have so much gold? Although they had earned some recently, it wasn''t even enough to develop military power. Using it to send to the King of Zhou to ward off disaster would be like taking from one''s left hand to give to the right. They couldn''t send a million gold taels to the King of Zhou every year! Just as Xiao Yunzhou was sweating profusely, he heard Xiao Chuchu exim in surprise. [Huh? The King of Zhou''s collection rate has increased by another 1.8%?] [What the hell is he doing? Still self-conquering, continuously increasing his favorability towards Jing Country?] [Let me see where he is. Oh my, he''s in a carriageing to Jing Country''s capital.] [No way? In the carriage, why is his collection rate rising for no reason?] Xiao Yunzhou listened, dumbfounded. What did this mean? What was the King of Zhou doing? Had he fallen in love with their Jing Country carriage!? * Inside the carriage. The King of Zhou and the King of Chu sat in the spacious,fortablepartment, separated by a table. Opposite them, an old man in in clothes was speaking with great enthusiasm, spittle flying! "It is said that Zhou Aotian obtained that iron ring pendant. Though covered in rust on the surface, who would have thought that when he practiced his martial arts at night, going against the norm, and spat a mouthful of fresh blood onto it¡ª" "The iron ring pendant actually transformed into jade, emitting a faint moonlike glow and radiating rich spiritual energy!" "And from inside the jade ring came the stern voice of an old man, saying he was a fallen god with only a remnant soul left, but he remembered supreme martial arts that he could teach to Zhou Aotian!" King Zhou Ling: "!" King of Chu: "!" They listened so intently that they forgot to drink their tea. Especially King Zhou Ling, who, as the storyteller narrated, seemed to be there himself, obtaining the jade ring containing the immortal old man along with Zhou Aotian! His face showed great satisfaction. "Old sir, is this Zhou Aotian from Zhou Xing Kingdom?" This Zhou Aotian who had such a miraculous encounter was surnamed Zhou! King Zhou Ling couldn''t help but imagine himself in that role. "And this old man in the jade ring, does he really know martial arts, or is he deceiving Zhou Aotian?" King Zhou Ling couldn''t wait to know what happened next. But the old storyteller smiled slightly. "Dear guest, please be patient. To know what happens next, please listen to the next installment." "Huh?" King Zhou Ling couldn''t bear to wait. "Never mind the next installment. We haven''t reached the capital yet. I''ll give you another fifty taels, please continue." The King of Chu nodded repeatedly in agreement. But the storyteller in the carriage looked helpless and regretful. "s, dear guests, I wish I could ept your silver." "But unfortunately, this ''Number One Immortal Lord'' has only spread from our Jing Country capital to the border." The old storyteller sighed deeply. "I set out with you from the border, and I''ve only heard thirty chapters." "Look, we''re about to reach the capital. I can also enter the city to update my progress, instead of waiting for peddlers to bring it to my hometown." The King of Chu and King Zhou Ling stared wide-eyed, almost cursing the storyteller''s ancestors. This story was still ongoing?! "Then how many chapters are there in total, do you know?" "ording to peddlers from the capital, there are over two thousand chapters in total!" "???" "..." "!!!" [Long-term love-powered writing is unsustainable. Search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments. Please support us!] Chapter 210 "Speaking of Zhou Aotian, who had been unable to make a breakthrough in his cultivation, his fianc¨¦e broke off their engagement. Then he obtained a jade ring..." "He said to his ex-fianc¨¦e, ''Better to wrong an old man than to underestimate a poor youth!''" The King of Zhou and the King of Chu entered the capital city of Jing Country in disguise, apanied by their attendants. They chose the busiest inn and stayed in the best room. Soon, they heard storytelling from downstairs. It was the tale of Zhou Aotian''s rise to power through cultivation after being jilted, with the help of his spiritual grandfather! "Let''s go down and listen!" The King of Zhou perked up. "I wonder what happened to Zhou Aotian after chapter 30, and if he made his ex-fianc¨¦e regret her decision." "My lord, we should be careful. We''re in the capital of Jing Country now," warned a tall, imposing middle-aged attendant behind the King of Zhou. "It''s fine. We''re already here," the King of Zhou waved dismissively. The King of Chu, now dressed in silk robes, walked out of the room nonchntly with his hands behind his back. "Little Zhou, if you''re afraid, just stay here." "I''ll listen to the story and tell you about itter," the King of Chu said fearlessly as he went downstairs with his servant. The King of Chu wasn''t worried about Jing Country discovering his identity or assassins attacking him. He had left Princess Yunwu in charge of state affairs, and a Jing Country expert had told him his death omen had passed, so he should be safe now. Besides, he was now an ally of Jing Country, and he should be safe in Xiao Yunzhou''s territory. The King of Chu was clever and bold, but as he walked out of the inn, he still felt for the talisman from the Jing Country expert in his sleeve, breathing a sigh of relief when he confirmed it was there. "Old Chu, if you''re not afraid of death, neither am I!" The King of Zhouughed heartily as he followed closely behind. "Have you heard? The safest way to hide someone is to put them in in sight." The King of Zhou was quite conspicuous, fearlessly wearing fine silks as he walked out of the inn openly. "Who would think we''d appear here? Where''s the danger?" The King of Chu''s pupils constricted. As expected of the ruler of Zhou Xing Kingdom, his courage and boldness were truly remarkable! No wonder the Yuan King sought to cooperate with Zhou Xing Kingdom in attacking Jing Country. The King of Zhou was ambitious and fearless! "Brother Chu, I want to hear the rest of this story about Zhou Aotian being jilted. I''ll leave Jing Country after he gets married and has his moment of triumph," the King of Zhou said casually as he walked alongside the King of Chu. The King of Chu''s eye twitched. Listen to the whole story before attacking Jing Country? But it has over 2,000 chapters! The King of Chu''s mouth twitched. "It''s fine, we have nothing else to do anyway," said the King of Zhou. He hadn''t given himself time to rx in a long while, so now that he was in Jing Country, he might as well see and hear more to unwind. "Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west of the river. Don''t underestimate a poor youth." Could it be that Jing Country, like Zhou Aotian, might suddenly have a chance to turn the tables? "Over 2,000 chapters," the King of Zhou, who was usually always reading, wasn''t afraid of books. "Let''s pay some silver to have dozens of storytellers write it down." "Reading with our eyes will be faster than listening." "Your Majesty, ahem, I''ve calcted that with over 2,000 chapters, if we focus on reading, we could probably finish in less than seven days," said the King of Zhou, who had clearly studied hard in his youth. The King of Chu nodded in agreement. Listening to stories was slow, but they were fast readers. As emperors who reviewed memorials and read extensively every day, they could read text very quickly. "Zhou Aotian''s story isn''t some abstruse schrly work, it''s more like casual entertainment. We can skim through it, and I''ve even allowed extra time by saying seven days," the King of Zhou said confidently. He then gave a look to his middle-aged attendant, who was clearly skilled in martial arts. "Rong Wei, have people find twenty storytellers as I said, and give each of them 100 taels of silver." "Each person will be responsible for reciting 100 chapters, and then find some schrs to transcribe them. We''ll have 2,000 chapters very quickly." With the King of Zhou''s calctions, the King of Chu nodded repeatedly, "Then we can choose a ce to listen, and they''ll probably be able to write it down from memory soon." The two kings smiled at each other, reaching an agreement on this matter. However, after sitting in the teahouse listening to stories for a morning, they quickly discovered that many of the listeners were eagerly reading booklets, men and women, young and old alike. "Friend, what''s this?" "Ah, you don''t know? Did you juste from the countryside? This is thetest release of ''The First Immortal Lord,'' which came out this morning." The King of Chu and the King of Zhou stared in disbelief, especially the King of Zhou, who had just confidently imed he could pay to read the entire story in seven days. Now he was dumbfounded, "What did you say? You mean there are only five volumes avable now?" "Of course!" The reader who was sharing with the King of Zhou answered casually, then continued reading,pletely absorbed and oblivious to the outside world. As he read, the reader kept praising and pping his thigh in excitement, "What a brilliant concept of transforming anger into a horse! Incredible!" "He actually swallowed spirit fire to force a breakthrough! How terrifying!" The King of Zhou and the King of Chu: "...!" "Brother, could you lend it to us to read?" They were both intrigued now. Was theter part so exciting? Was it all taught by the spiritual grandfather? But the reader immediately hid the book, protecting it preciously, "Don''t try to snatch it! I barely managed to buy this after queuing up all night yesterday. I''m going to finish reading it today, then lend it to my ssmates to copy and pass around slowly." "What?!" The reader''s words made the King of Zhou and the King of Chu harshly aware of the cruel reality. "The storytelling in the capital has only reached before chapter 350, and the bookstore only released volumes 1-5 today, a total of 150 chapters..." The reader lowered his voice mysteriously, "The next volume won''t be released for at least five days. I heard from a ssmate with connections in the Hanlin Academy that they''ve only written up to about 500 chapters so far." "As for the unpublished manuscripts, well, currently only people from the Hanlin Academy and the Ministry of Revenue can see them." The King of Chu and the King of Zhou: "??!" What? Only a quarter has been written? The King of Chu was stunned, and soon he saw the words on the book cover in the reader''s arms - ''Most Popr Novel in Both Jing and Chu!'' "???" The King of Chu was bewildered, "When did this novel start selling in my Chu territory?" "You''re from Chu?" The reader was surprised, but quickly nodded, "You do have a bit of an ent." "But how can you not know? ''The First Immortal Lord'' has been selling like crazy in Chu for over a month now. The only thing that canpete with it is another book from our Jing Country, ''She Came Back After Five Years,'' written by a top schr. Both of these novels are very popr among the people of Chu." Readers in Jing Country all knew about this because the promotional slogans were written on the book covers in Jing bookstores. "I heard that when ''She Came Back After Five Years'' was first released, Princess Yunwu alone bought 5,000 copies. Now it''s up to 150 chapters, and it''s be the most beloved novel among women not only in the capital of Chu but in various cities throughout Chu!" The King of Chu was dumbfounded. He didn''t know about this. A month ago, he had left Yunwu temporarily in charge of state affairs and left Chu to travel the world. After experiencing a brush with death, he had a new perspective and decided to take a break. But now, the King of Chu never expected to stumble upon gossip about himself. His Chu territory had be the biggest buyer of Jing Country books?! Seeing his reaction, the reader chuckled, "You seem displeased?" "If it weren''t for our emperor, considering the establishment of diplomatic rtions with Chu and the preferential treatment for iron mines in Chu, he wouldn''t have allowed the simultaneous release of these two books in Chu." "As for other neighboring countries, like Zhou and such, even though they''ve begged us to sell books there, they''re still a step behind,gging 300 chapters behind our progress, hehe." The King of Zhou: "??!" He never expected to be caught in the crossfire while listening! What did this mean? Once he returned to Zhou from Jing Country, he would have to wait for dyed updates? The Hanlin Academy in Jing had only written up to 500 chapters, and it was clear that he wouldn''t be able to read the full story during this trip to Jing. But once he returned to Zhou, he would be 300 chapters behind in progress? That old fox Chu could know thetest plot developments in real-time, but he couldn''t? How infuriating! The King of Zhou was stunned and immediately felt terrible. Just as he was considering whether he should frequently visit the border in the future, a group of people arrived at the teahouse. Soon, the middle-aged attendant alertly stood in front of the King of Zhou. But the neers had fair, beardless faces and delicate voices. Seeing they were blocked, they didn''t get angry, but just smiled and said softly to the King of Zhou and the King of Chu. "Master Zhou, Master Chu." "My Jing family master invites you to be guests at our home." "He says you''vee from afar, how can you stay outside?" "?" "!" The King of Chu and the King of Zhou were both startled. Xiao Yunzhou? How did he know they were here? Had the defenses of Jing Country reached such a level that they could identify the identity of anyone entering, even if it was just two drops of water?! [Long-term free content is unsustainable. Search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments. Please support us!] Chapter 211 [Hehe, Wei Zheng scared the King of Zhou and King of Chu.] Xiao Chuchu gleefully watched the remote livestream. Xiao Yunzhou, hearing his daughter''s thoughts, couldn''t help but smile. Soon, he met the King of Zhou, who had been brought to the imperial study, along with the King of Chu, whom he had only met a month ago. "You two, howe you didn''t notify me when you came to our Jing Country?" Xiao Yunzhou greeted them with a beaming smile. "If you had informed me in advance, I could have sent guards to escort you all the way." "It would have been better than you two squeezing into one carriage the whole journey, unable to sleep well," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. This one statement startled both the dragon-like, tiger-striding, stern-faced King of Zhou and the gray-haired King of Chu. Xiao Yunzhou not only knew they had arrived, but he was also fully aware of their entire journey. He even knew that the two kings had shared the same carriage? If they weren''t monarchs ustomed to hiding their emotions, they would have shown their astonishment and deted demeanor in front of Xiao Yunzhou. When exactly had Xiao Yunzhou started monitoring them? Were the Jing Country''s spies and informants really that formidable? The King of Zhou''s mind was in turmoil. If this was the case, did Xiao Yunzhou know about Yuan Mu Country''s restlessness and the Yuan King''s attempt to borrow passage through his Zhou Xing Kingdom? Was this a subtle hint that Jing Country had already detected it? The King of Zhou''s thoughts were racing even before he sat down. "Please, have a seat," Xiao Yunzhou waved for Wei Zheng to serve tea. Today, Xiao Chuchu was being held by her nanny in the adjacent study, separated by a wall and heavily guarded. Xiao Yunzhou wasn''t sure if the King of Zhou could be trusted, so he didn''t dare to let Xiao Chuchu stay in front of strangers. [Wow, the King of Zhou''s collection rate has risen to 14%. Is he scared?] Xiao Chuchu was impressed but confused. Xiao Yunzhou almost twitched at the corner of his mouth. Looking at the King of Zhou, he saw that this never-before-seen monarch of the Zhou Xing Kingdom was fifteen years his senior, but still robust. He hadn''t expected such a manly figure to be so easily frightened. "Brother Xiao, did some expert in Jing Country divine our arrival?" the King of Chu, being older, quickly regained hisposure and guessed. Xiao Yunzhou was secretly pleased but didn''t show it on his face. "The workings of heaven cannot be revealed," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. He wasn''t about to casually disclose matters about his fairy daughter. "Suffice it to say, I not only know you''ve arrived, but I also know other things." The King of Zhou''s pupils suddenly dted. These words seemed to be directed at him. Seeing his reaction, Xiao Yunzhou pressed on, "I hear both of you are quite fond of our Jing Country''s long-form novels. How about this? You can stay at the foreign envoys'' residence for a few days, and I''ll have the Hanlin Academy send over thetest manuscripts for you to peruse first." Both the King of Zhou and King of Chu were delighted. But the King of Zhou''s joysted only for a moment before he quickly responded, "Is it possible for these novels to be sold in our Zhou Xing Kingdom? Give us a 20% discount." "???" The King of Chu immediately red. "What 20% discount for you? If there''s to be a discount, it should be for our Chu State. We are allies with Jing Country. What reason does your Zhou Xing Kingdom have for preferential treatment?" The King of Zhou''s lips tightened. "We''re seeing these novelster than you, yet we''re supposed to pay the same price? Where''s the fairness in that?" More crucially, if he refused the Yuan King and didn''t attack Jing Country, he would lose a million gold pieces. Of course, he wanted to recoup something from Jing Country''s side. But as soon as he thought this, the King of Zhou paused. Wait, had he already started considering the possibility of siding with Jing Country? The King of Zhou frowned, looking at Xiao Yunzhou. Had he unwittingly wavered? Was it because of these captivating novel stories, or Jing Country''s tight city defenses and spywork? Or was it because of what the King of Chu had told him about Jing Country''s banks, milk tea shops, new water irrigation tools for farming... things the King of Zhou had not only seen along the way, but had also heard mentioned by storytellers in "The First Immortal Lord." "That''s right," Xiao Yunzhou nodded. "Brother Zhou, you''ve discovered the foreshadowing our Hanlin Academy left in the novels." [Oh my, Emperor Dad is so brazen. What foreshadowing? It''s just product cement!] [The Hanlin Academy just had to add extra scenes to the male lead''s daily cultivation life, like buying Jing Country''s royal milk tea for his senior sister and exchanging it for spirit herbs, or depositing spirit stones in Jing Country''s bank to get more interest. This kind of sneaky product cement appeared five or six times in just the first three chapters!] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but criticize from next door. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, feeling a bit hot in the face, but he maintained his act with his acting skills. He looked solemnly at the King of Zhou and King of Chu, "These foreshadowings, when the novels are sold to various countries, will also help them understand the unique features of our Jing Country better." Xiao Yunzhou''s marketing knowledge came from his fairy little princess. ording to the fairy little princess, this was all about traffic! The better "The First Immortal Lord" and "She Came Back After Five Years" sold, the more people read them, the more effective the product advertisements written by the Hanlin Academy would be. Thinking of this, Xiao Yunzhou focused on introducing to the King of Zhou, "When Zhou Tiantian was doing chores at the immortal sect, his senior brother challenged him to manage a hundred acres of immortal fields. Hepleted the task by using magicbined with the dragon bone water wheel to irrigate the fields." "We are now selling these dragon bone water wheels in our Jing Country. King of Zhou, do you have any thoughts on introducing this to Zhou Xing Kingdom?" "And our Jing Country''s banks... just like in the novel, deposit ten, get twelve back." The King of Zhou suddenly realized - it was all about promotion! But then he became a bit interested. Although using these dragon bone water wheels and such wouldn''t have much impact on Zhou Xing Kingdom in the short term, it would definitely improve the lives of themon people in the long run. More importantly, he could foresee that when "The First Immortal Lord" spread to other ces in the future, it would also be loved by the local people there. Even if Zhou Xing Kingdom didn''t buy these dragon bone water wheels and milk tea recipes from Jing Country, other countries would take action. By then, if others moved while the people of Zhou Xing remained stagnant, the gap in agriculture andmerce would gradually widen! The King of Zhou gritted his teeth. They had to buy, and buy quickly! [The King of Zhou''s collection rate has risen to 23%.] Xiao Chuchu was delighted. [This is the influence of advertising in a big IP!] [But it''s not enough, only 23%... We need to administer a stronger dose.] Hearing this, Xiao Yunzhou also raised an eyebrow, looking at the King of Zhou who wasn''t overwhelmed by issues of people''s livelihood. Indeed, as his fairy daughter said, it was time for a stronger dose. In the interactions between two countries, apart from bringing benefits to each other, there was also the matter of deterrence! Letting the other side see their strength would naturally prevent them from daring to offend Jing Country! With this in mind, Xiao Yunzhou sped his hands behind his back and nodded to the King of Chu and King of Zhou, "You two havee at the right time." "Our Jing Country has recently invented new military equipment - several types of firearms." "You cane with me to watch the Military Department''s experiment." The two kings were shocked. But Xiao Yunzhou acted as if he hadn''t noticed, "Wei Zheng, go, tell them to bring the hundred-shot firearm!" The King of Chu and King of Zhou suddenly felt a chill down their spines. What firearm? How many shots? A hundred?! Impossible, how could there be a hundred shots? [The machine gun ising!] Xiao Chuchu had been waiting for this day and was immediately excited. [Working for love isn''t sustainable. Search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments. Please support us!] Chapter 212 Firearms had existed since the previous dynasty, but even in the prosperous Chu State, they couldn''t im to fully equip all soldiers. At most, only elite troops in critical positions would be armed with them. Despite their scarcity, firearms weren''t exactly a novelty. Whether it was the King of Chu or the King of Zhou, when Xiao Yunzhou mentioned these firearms, their expressions remainedposed, not disying the wide-eyed wonder of a country bumpkin entering a grand garden. However, thisposure wouldn''tst long. "A new type of firearm? Capable of a hundred shots?" The King of Chu, who was on friendlier terms with Xiao Yunzhou, couldn''t help but ask first, "You must be joking." The King of Chu, at sixty years old and with a wealth of experience, had been on the battlefield and closely monitored the Chu State''s military department''s research on firearm technology. A firearm with a hundred bullets... Howrge would the body of such a weapon need to be to amodate so many bullets? Cavalry on horseback, carrying such an oversized firearm, might not even be able to lift it. How could one possibly fight with that? The King of Chu couldn''t imagine what a hundred-shot firearm would look like. Even if Jing Country had mystical experts, the King of Chu thought Xiao Yunzhou was talking nonsense! "Xiao Yunzhou, you''re not trying to fool us, are you?" Even the King of Zhou remained skeptical. Let alone Jing Country, which wasn''t particrly wealthy, even Chu, rich in iron ore, didn''t possess such technology! Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, gesturing for them to remain calm. "Wait until they bring it here, and we''ll all take a look together." "By the way, since you both enjoy ''The First Immortal Lord,'' have you heard the storytelling of ''She Returned After Five Years''?" "As it happens, I recently had a y arranged. While we wait, shall we have them perform an act for us?" The King of Chu and the King of Zhou were in no mood to watch a y at the moment. Although they were engrossed in the legendary experiences and rise to power of Zhou Tiantian from the novel, in the face of national affairs¡ªthe firepower of these new weapons¡ªthe novel seemed insignificant. But Xiao Yunzhou was the host, and they were guests, so they could onlyply with his arrangements. Soon, they moved to a specially partitioned pavilion within the pce for watching performances. The stage was already prepared. Before long, the actors took their positions. The King of Chu and the King of Zhou were initially distracted, but after about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, they were drawn in by the clear-spoken, beautiful actors on stage. Surprisingly, the y wasn''t entirely sung; it had more spoken dialogue and less singing. Even with their divided attention, they could hear every word the actors said clearly and see their expressions and tears vividly. This performance style differed from traditional opera, using innguage from the Central ins rather than the local dialect. The King of Chu and the King of Zhou found themselves captivated, but after a while, their expressions grew solemn. The woman who had once been hurt and driven out by her husband had now transformed into a princess with powerful backing, adopted by the royal family. She was exceptionally intelligent, previouslycking only an opportunity. Now, after five years of tutge from royal mentors, she had mastered mathematics, astronomy, and geography... Upon her return, she trampled all those who had mistreated her underfoot! "This..." The King of Zhou drew a sharp breath. Wasn''t this just a female version of Zhou Tiantian, the male protagonist from "The First Immortal Lord"? ''What I wanted before, you didn''t give.'' ''Now that you want to give, I no longer want it.'' ''Some things, once missed, are like missing a gust of wind. By the time you try to catch it, it''s already toote.'' The actress ying the female lead delivered lines that made the male lead regret bitterly, her diction impable. The actor ying the male lead stumbled, fell silent, and suffered on stage. Unlike ordinary stages, this one had a dim light shining on the actors, with darkness all around. It was as if his entire world had copsed. ''I''m sorry, I sympathize with your pain, but it''s toote. You are worthless to me now.'' The female lead departed resolutely! Turning away, she embraced another young man. The King of Zhou and the King of Chu watched the performance on stage, unable to utter a word for a long time. An hourter, the tea in their hands had gone cold, and the actors had already left the stage before they came to their senses. "Well?" Xiao Yunzhou smiled, "What do you two think of our y?" The King of Chu and the King of Zhou felt the coldness from their cups spreading to their palms and the back of their necks... How was it? Looking at the now-empty stage, they could still see the image of the suffering male lead and the strong, returned female lead''s unfeeling back as she walked away. Was Xiao Yunzhou showing them this to imply something? Was this woman today a metaphor for the future Jing Country? Now, Jing Country wanted to befriend them, with utmost sincerity. But if they disregarded Jing Country and trampled on that sincerity, then in five years... no, perhaps in just two or three years, or even less time, when Jing Country rose to power, they would cast Zhou and Chu aside like worn-out shoes! Even if Zhou and Chu were to suffer like the man on stage, trying to win back Jing Country, it would be impossible. ''Like missing a gust of wind, once you try to catch it, it''s already toote...'' The two great kings of Zhou and Chu, faced with Xiao Yunzhou''s smiling inquiry, felt their hearts trembling. Xiao Yunzhou was like a wolf in sheep''s clothing! This wasn''t just inviting them to watch a y; it was a threat! The King of Chu, already an ally of Jing Country, was slightly better off, but the King of Zhou, who was still hesitating whether to help Yuan attack Jing, felt a chill run down his spine. The King of Zhou was certain that Xiao Yunzhou must know about Yuan''s plot, which was why he kept ''reminding'' him of the consequences, even putting on this show! "This y is truly..." The King of Zhou gritted his teeth, "You''ve put a lot of thought into this, Xiao Yunzhou." Hehe. Xiao Yunzhou chuckled, "Indeed, you are the first audience." This was what his daughter called the ''TV drama'' Jing Country version, discarding some of the singing in favor of everyday dialogue that even children and the elderly could understand clearly. But at key climactic moments, it still incorporated operatic singing to heighten the audience''s emotional resonance. "I''m d you enjoy the y," Xiao Yunzhou said, giving the King of Zhou a meaningful look. "I think that although the story is simple, some of the principles within are quite thought-provoking." The King of Zhou closed his eyes, struggling to suppress the turmoil in his heart. Just as he was about to rise and leave, Wei Zheng arrived with his men. "Your Majesty, the Military and Industry Departments are ready." In no time at all, a series of firearms wrapped in red cloth were brought in. To the surprise of the King of Zhou and the King of Chu, these Jing Country firearms came in different styles and sizes. There were light models that could be carried on horseback, as well as heavy models that needed to be stabilized on the ground. And there were indeed firearms capable of continuous fire! The gun barrel was just over three feet long, light enough for a sturdy soldier to carry, with several cylindrical cartridges on his back. Inserting the cartridge into the main barrel from the muzzle, it could fire ten shots in session. Once emptied, the cartridge could be ejected and reced with a second one! With ten consecutive cartridges, it could fire continuously and steadily! In total, it could indeed fire well over a hundred shots! The King of Zhou watched in horror. Their Zhou Kingdom''s firearms weren''t even a tenth as agile or longsting! If they were to meet on the battlefield... by the time they ran out of ammunition, Jing Country would still be able to continue firing! Xiao Yunzhou nced at him and added fuel to the fire, "I suddenly recall a line from the y, ''When someone wants to walk alongside you, and you disdain them, by the time youe begging, you won''t even get a nce from them.''" "This is what happens when you try to win back a spouse after cremation." "What do you think, King of Zhou?" Chapter 213 "It really is a hundred shots..." On the empty training ground, the stalwart guard behind King of Zhou revealed an amazed expression as he watched the mother-and-child firearms continuously fire densely at the straw man over a hundred meters away. "No, it''s not just a hundred shots," the middle-aged guard quickly realized in shock. "As long as you carry enough gun barrels, it''s not limited to a hundred shots. Two hundred, five hundred... it''s all possible!" The King of Zhou''s expression subtly changed. Indeed, Xiao Yunzhou looked at the Zhou Kingdom guard with an approving gaze, "This brave man speaks correctly. A hundred shots is just a name we''ve bestowed upon it." In the little princess''s books, this rapid-fire gun was called the ''Hundred-Shot Frankish Gun''. ording to the princess''s inner voice, this was one of the derivative products of Western firearms that hade to the East. Xiao Yunzhou felt the name was obscure, so he changed it to the Hundred-Shot Fire Gun, implying the auspicious omen of hitting the target with every shot. "As long as the soldiers can carry it, and there are enough military resources to support it, they can keep firing by carrying multiple gun barrels, forcing the enemy into a desperate situation," Xiao Yunzhou chuckled. "This can surely create an unstoppable cavalry force." The King of Zhou and King of Chu listened with boiling blood, yet also felt wary. They couldn''t help but think, if their Zhou and Chu soldiers were equipped with such firearms, the power would be so great that ordinary troublemakers wouldn''t dare to invade. But how did Jing Country manage to invent this thing? The King of Zhou and King of Chu stared intently at this new precious firearm without averting their gaze! It was as if by looking long enough, they could discern some clues about how to manufacture it from the mother-and-child firearm. But unfortunately, just by looking at the appearance, the firearm was entirely iron-colored and tightly sealed, without any traces revealing its internal structure. "Hehe, what''s this? Are you two interested in our Jing Country''s new type of firearm?" Xiao Yunzhou snorted lightly. The other two kings immediately blushed and looked away. Xiao Yunzhou felt proud. This was technology brought by the fairy''s daughter, not something ordinary people could learn just by looking once or twice. The internal structure of the firearm was extremely intricate. Moreover, this Hundred-Shot Fire Gun was just a prototype. ording to the celestial realm''s books, there would be other more powerful mature firearms in the future! Things like machine guns, mobile artillery, naval mines, and so on. "Today, what''s disyed before you is merely one or two tenths," Xiao Yunzhou smiled immodestly at the two kings. Sure enough, the King of Zhou and King of Chu were even more shocked. "Alright, since you''ve seen it, let''s move to the study," Xiao Yunzhou waved his hand, letting the people from the Ministry of War take away the firearms. The gazes of the King of Zhou and King of Chu instantly stuck to these things again! In a situation where neighboring countries all had firearms equipped, even with their two countries'' strong military power, they wouldn''t have much advantage. Because whenever there was a conflict, it would consume gunpowder, lives, provisions, and horses, resulting in heavy losses. This was why, even though they were powerful, they wouldn''t easily start a war. But now, the Yuan King was restless, wanting to send troops against Jing. Once Jing Country was gone, would it be Zhou and Chu''s turn next? By then, with Jing Country gone and these immensely powerful firearms gone too, could Zhou and Chu really contend with the Yuan King? On the way back to the imperial study, the King of Chu''splex gaze kept falling on the King of Zhou. "Your Majesty, is there any way we could purchase a few Hundred-Shot Fire Guns?" The middle-aged attendant behind the King of Zhou couldn''t help but speak in a low voice. The Hundred-Shot Fire Gun had immense power, good for attacking, and naturally also an excellent tool for defending cities! If they could buy some and bring them back... The King of Zhou''s eyebrows twitched slightly, and he couldn''t help but look at Xiao Yunzhou with aplex expression. [Oh, Zhou Xing Kingdom wants to purchase weapons from us?] Xiao Chuchu had been staying in the side study. Earlier, for safety reasons, Xiao Yunzhou hadn''t taken her to the ce where they were test-firing the guns, but she clearly hadn''t missed watching the broadcast. Now, as soon as the three emperors returned, Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice started chattering. [The level of weapon advancement is an important measure of military power. If you''re not on good terms with our Jing Country, don''t even think about buying from us!] [We won''t sell to you even at a high price! King of Zhou, first look at your own favorability towards Jing Country, it''s only just risen to 47% now.] [King of Zhou, you''re not even half on our Jing Country''s side!] Xiao Yunzhou thought the same in his heart, and turned to reject the King of Zhou, who was still wavering between Yuan and Jing, "Not for sale." "This firearm manufacturing technology is a secret of our Jing Country, specially provided for our Jing Country''s soldiers and allied friendly forces." The King of Zhou and the strong man behind him immediately had stiff expressions. The King of Chu, on the other hand, was overjoyed, "Xiao Yunzhou, we are friendly forces, right? We offer you a 30% discount on iron ore from our Chu territory, isn''t the iron ore source for your firearm manufacturing from our Chu territory?" Xiao Yunzhou nodded with a smile, "As long as we''re allies, everything is negotiable." The King of Chu''s face was full of smiles, "Jing Country is straightforward! Haha, not bad, not bad, I didn''t expect that traveling the world would lead me to such a good thing! These firearms in the army are a great killing weapon!" The King of Zhou''s brow furrowed even more. Just now he was only slightly moved, but now he was anxious! It was a case of one''s gain being another''s loss. If Chu State and Jing Country both had this great killing weapon, and Zhou Xing Kingdom didn''t, wouldn''t that create a huge military power gap? Chu State had money and resources, and could continuously purchase from Jing Country. His Zhou Xing Kingdom would be caught between two fires! [Hehe, the King of Zhou''s collection rate has risen to 49%!] [Indeed,petition makes things more interesting.] As Xiao Chuchu was musing, she suddenly heard a system prompt. She looked and was delighted, [Ever since avoiding the deadly cmity for the King of Chu, this hero''s collection rate has been stuck, with only 10% left. Unexpectedly, it moved today.] [Finally reached 100%!] [Wait, after seeing the firearms and receiving the promise of alliance, the King of Chu''s favorability towards Jing has reached 121%!] [The system says I''vepleted the mission of conquering the hero beyond expectations ¡ª rewarding me with a new skill: Gossip Eye.] Hm? Xiao Yunzhou was about to continue persuading the fence-sitting King Zhou Ling when he heard his daughter''s inner voice. He was stunned for a moment. What Gossip Eye? Gossip, as in Qian, Kun, Kan, Li, Zhen, Xun, Gen, Dui? But just as he was guessing, Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice had already finished reading the system''s notes on the new skill. [Wow, this Gossip Eye is quite useful. As long as someone stands in front of me, I can immediately see their three most important pieces of gossip.] "!" Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. He instantly raised his eyes to look at the King of Zhou, this fellow who might help Yuan Mu Country, and coughed lightly, "Wei Zheng, go bring the little princess here, these two earthly kings haven''t met the Third Princess yet." The King of Zhou''s expression was surprised. What little princess? Had he misheard? If he were receiving important figures from other countries, he would definitely have his crown princee out! "Ah,e,e, this old man misses her too," the King of Chu, remembering to ''value daughters over sons'', immediately looked forward to it expectantly. Xiao Yunzhou blocked this old fellow, standing at the study door and carefully took the adorable Chuchu, who had already changed into light clothes, from Wei Zheng''s arms. "Chuchu, these are your two uncles who havee from afar." "This one''s surname is Zhou..." Xiao Yunzhou stood seven or eight steps away from King Zhou Ling, next to the guards, and turned his precious Chuchu''s pink little face towards King Zhou Ling. But before he could finish speaking, as King Zhou Ling awkwardly looked at this baby who wasn''t even a year old, Xiao Chuchu also stared at him with wide eyes. [Oh my, is this King Zhou Ling?] [Gossip Eye ¡ª the first piece of gossip is right next to his face, it''s so big! At least bold size 5 font!] [Damn, his niece, Princess Ronghua, is at a farm in the outskirts of our Jing Country''s capital, about to be poisoned mute and sold off by her own husband!] "???" Xiao Yunzhou was stunned. Ah? [Holy crap, so King Zhou Ling married his own niece to the Yuan King''s nephew?] [No wonder the Yuan King wants to borrow passage through Zhou, they have this kind of marriage alliance!] [But this Yuan King''s nephew has long disliked Princess Ronghua!] [Oh no, Princess Ronghua has been tied up by him, help! Before he poisons her mute, he wants to disfigure her!] Xiao Yunzhou''s face changed dramatically, looking at King Zhou Ling with indignation and sympathy! Chapter 214 Xiao Yunzhou never imagined that his fairy daughter''s new celestial technique would be so powerful, as if it were divining the secrets of heaven through the Eight Trigrams. The name of this technique, "Eyes of the Eight Trigrams," was truly apt! Previously, his daughter couldn''t predict future crises for everyone she encountered. For instance, she couldn''t make daily real-time predictions for people like Chancellor Fu Cha of their Jing Country or the Empress Dowager. But unexpectedly, today his daughter''s technique had made a breakthrough! Xiao Chuchu quickly turned her little face towards the King of Zhou, then to the King of Chu beside him, but after a nce, she looked away. [Nothing special for the King of Chu today, just that his youngest great-grandson lost a baby tooth.] [My imperial father doesn''t have any urgent gossip either, just that he stayed upte again yesterday and this morning he was childishly mocking Wei Zheng for having less stamina than him.] [Wei Zheng doesn''t have any big news either, but he didn''t drink water this morning, afraid he''d need to run to the bathroom during his shift.] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" His daughter''s celestial technique had made such a breakthrough that it could even calcte such minute details. [The matter of the King of Zhou''s niece is still the most urgent.] Xiao Chuchu looked around, found no major issues with her own family, and moved her worried gaze to the side of King Zhou Ling''s face, bing very anxious. [Let me see where this farm is where the niece is trapped! But how do I tell people to go rescue her!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows and eyes twitched. No worries, rest assured, with her ''acting-savvy'' imperial father here, he would ''enlighten'' upon hearing his treasure''s inner thoughts! The little princess didn''t need to worry at all. Xiao Yunzhou reassuringly patted the little princess''s tightly clenched fist. [It''s in the suburbs outside the east city gate of the capital, about half an hour by carriage. What vige is this? Mao Family!] Mao Family Vige? Xiao Yunzhou raised an eyebrow. Before the new year, he had seen in the reports sent by Concubine Liu that some of the duck down for the down jackets came from Mao Family Vige. This was because Mao Family Vige was one of the first ces to cooperate with Liu Runnian in trial-raising force-fed ducks. At the time, when Xiao Yunzhou saw this report, he had wanted tough, thinking that Liu Runnian must have chosen this vige because everyone there had the surname Mao, and raising t-feathered force-fed ducks there would bring good fortune. So when Xiao Yunzhou now heard his daughter mention Mao Family Vige, he had a vivid impression and remembered everything. Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows and eyes moved slightly, and he looked towards the King of Zhou and the King of Chu, immediately finding an excuse, "Have you two enjoyed roast duck during your visit to our Jing Country?" The King of Chu had eaten it before, but the King of Zhou had been so engrossed in reading male-oriented novels that he hadn''t had the chance yet. But just as the King of Zhou was about to decline the roast duck, not being one to indulge in fine food and wine, he saw Xiao Yunzhou looking at him with a sympathetic expression, his gaze urgent and solemn. "?" The King of Zhou was utterly perplexed. What kind of expression was this from Xiao Yunzhou? It seemed as if not agreeing to eat roast duck would be some kind of century-old regret! A grave mistake! "Let''s go, I''ve finished all my reports for today. I''ll take you to see where the roast duckse from," Xiao Yunzhou didn''t want to dy. If that woman had already been disfigured or poisoned mute, the fairy little princess who could see everything would probably be heartbroken. Moreover, as the victim was now in Jing territory, he, as the ruler of Jing, had a duty to protect her. Now that he knew, he couldn''t not act! "We now export quite a few roast ducks to Chu State. Brother Chu, don''t you want to see the real situation of our Jing Country''s meat duck farming areas?" With one sentence, Xiao Yunzhou made both kings interested. Know yourself and your enemy, and you''ll win every battle. Since they hade all this way, learning about Jing Country''s information was certainly beneficial. After military firearms, learning about the food and clothing of Jing Country''smon people... there was nothing wrong with that. "Alright, let''s go then," both kings agreed. Xiao Yunzhou immediately ordered Wei Zheng to prepare the carriages, and then pretended to pick out this month''s report on meat duck farming viges from the pile of memorials. He nodded, "We won''t go to the first or thest, let''s just go see the situation in Mao Family Vige, which has average production." [Wow, awesome! Dropping the highest score, dropping the lowest score, at the crucial moment my old man didn''t let me down, he chose Mao Vige!] Xiao Chuchu was overjoyed, but as soon as she looked at the words beside King Zhou Ling''s face, she became anxious, [Hurry and set off! That scumbag from Yuan State is already meeting with the person buying his wife! Damn it, he''s actually selling her to a forty-year-old crippled idiot.] Her inner voice was anxious, and she kept making ''giddy-up'' horse-riding gestures in Xiao Yunzhou''s arms. This imitation was so soft and cute that it almost melted the hearts of the three old men in the room. But Xiao Yunzhou knew her inner thoughts and was both heartbroken and equally anxious, "Wei Zheng, no need to prepare the carriages. We''ll ride at full speed and return before sunset!" The King of Zhou and the King of Chu were slightly stunned, then nodded, looking at Xiao Yunzhou with a hint of admiration. They had long heard that Xiao Yunzhou was keen on cultivating the Dao and meditation, but they didn''t expect the rumors to be untrue. He actually had quite a bit of vigor and could gallop on horseback! "Well said, let''s ride at full speed together!" The King of Chuughed heartily. Soon, the three men mounted their horses. Xiao Yunzhou handpicked his personal guards and securely wrapped his daughter, the little princess, to his chest as they galloped towards Mao Vige. [Goodness, it turns out this Yuan State scumbag has long despised Princess Ronghua for being arrogant. But back then, under pressure from the Yuan King''s edict and for the sake of the alliance between the two countries, he had to abandon the woman he loved and marry Princess Ronghua instead. But he has always resented her.] [And now, as the Yuan King is itching to ally with Zhou Kingdom to attack us, this scumbag has offered a strategy to the Yuan King. He wants to have Princess Ronghua killed in our Jing territory, thereby inciting conflict between us and Zhou, making King Zhou Ling, who dotes on his niece, determined to attack us together!] "???" Xiao Yunzhou drew in a sharp breath, furious beyond words. No wonder he had found it strange earlier that Princess Ronghua of Zhou Sui Kingdom, who had married into Yuan Mu Country, was now being sold by her husband all the way to his Jing Country. Now that his fairy daughter had spoken, Xiao Yunzhou knew he hadn''t been wrong in his earlier suspicions. It really was a conspiracy! He just never imagined that this Yuan man could be so venomous, willing to spark a war and use a woman as a sacrifice! To use his wife of many years as a sacrifice! Too poisonous, too cruel. Perhaps not only King Zhou Ling, but even this wife could never have anticipated such malice from the person lying beside her! Xiao Yunzhou closed his eyes. He didn''t want to fight a war and make themon people suffer, but this Yuan King was too vicious, truly a great threat. And this Yuan prince, selling and killing his wife, should descend to the eighteenth level of hell. How could he even be considered human! But halfway through his mental cursing, Xiao Yunzhou paused. Wasn''t it supposed to be killing the wife in Jing Country to frame them? How did it be selling the wife to Mao Vige, poisoning her mute, and disfiguring her in his fairy daughter''s words? What exactly did this Yuan scumbag in the fairy''s mouth want to do? [This person is just a pervert. Not only does he want his wife dead, but to incite war between the two countries, he''s going to all lengths. Before killing her, he wants to create the false appearance that Jing people trafficked Princess Ronghua to Mao Family Vige. He''s even disguising himself as a buyer who''s afraid she''ll be recognized, nning to disfigure her appearance, poison her mute, and cut her hamstrings to prevent her from escaping, creating a tragic situation!] [This is to enrage King Zhou Ling, make him hate the Jing people, and turn to Yuan State!] Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath. Who says women are the most poisonous? Clearly, this man is the most venomous! [After Princess Ronghua has suffered all this torment, he will then kill her, ensuring she can never speak again!] Xiao Chuchu read the ''Eyes of the Eight Trigrams'' text beside King Zhou Ling''s face and couldn''t help but shudder, feeling scared and angry, [Encountering such a scumbag, marriage is truly like a tomb.] [He''s using her to curry favor with the Yuan King, while also taking the opportunity to take revenge and humiliate her, making himself feel better. Damn him, if he didn''t want to marry her back then, he could have defied the Yuan King''s edict. He didn''t have the courage to defy then, but now he''s venting by abusing his wife, what a coward!] [Poor Princess Ronghua, on her wedding night she saw his handsome appearance and was deceived by his fake gentleness. This time she even thought she wasing to Jing Country for a sweet trip with her husband.] [Who would have thought that this gentle husband was sending her to the underworld!] Xiao Yunzhou was so angry he couldn''t speak. At this moment, he truly felt that the "She Came Back After Five Years" brought by his fairy daughter was a celestial book! Encountering such a husband, he should be cremated, and she should step on his corpse and move forward! "My lord, we''ve arrived at Mao Family Vige," the guard in in clothes reined in his horse just in time. [Awoo, she''s in thest row of houses on the east side of the duck farming pen¡ªthe idiot''s house that no one wants to go to!] "Go directly to the duck pens, I want to do an impromptu inspection of the duck pen sanitation!" "!" "!!" [Working for love isn''t sustainable, search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments, please support us!] Chapter 215 Inspect the duck pen''s hygiene? With one sentence, Xiao Yunzhou left the King of Chu and King of Zhou stunned. As the saying goes, family shame should not be aired, and national shame even less so. Why would Xiao Yunzhou check the condition of his own duck pens in front of the emperors of their two countries? If it wasn''t good, wouldn''t that be exposing his shorings in front of them? The two kings'' expressions flickered. What kind of confidence did Xiao Yunzhou have to be so certain that Jing Country''s duck pens were spotlessly clean? The two kings suddenly became intrigued, wanting to find some ws to make Xiao Yunzhou ashamed. But before they could act, they saw rows of neat duck houses before them! Just as they were marveling at how the duck houses not only had fences but roofs as well, a duck that was out for air quacked and dropped a pile of droppings right in front of King Zhou Ling. King Zhou Ling''s mouth twitched. "Hahaha! Brother Zhou, you must have a special connection to this ce." The King of Chuughed heartily at seeing someone''s misfortune. This one sentence made Xiao Yunzhou, who had been hesitating on how to find an excuse, brighten up. He immediately started walking towards the east with his hands behind his back, shaking his head at the duck droppings in front of King Zhou Ling''s feet. "Ah, Brother Zhou, this... I''m not sure if I should say it or not." King Zhou Ling was taken aback, "Hm?" Xiao Yunzhou''s mystical expression left him confused, but the King of Chu beside him suddenly thought of the matter with the secret n, "What? Xiao Yunzhou, don''t keep us in suspense. Does Jing Country''s expert have some insights?" King Zhou Ling was stunned, apparently having heard from the King of Chu about Jing Country''s expert alleviating his death crisis. He immediately became hesitant to step forward. "Hm? Xiao Yunzhou, if you have something to say, just say it. Don''t put on airs." King Zhou Ling felt uneasy under Xiao Yunzhou''s sympathetic gaze. Xiao Yunzhou clicked his tongue, deciding not to waste any more time, "Brother Zhou, you''ve just arrived here and already encountered filth. Not good, not good at all." "Misfortune is at hand, I fear there may be bloodshed." King Zhou Ling was dumbfounded. It was just duck droppings, wasn''t it? It was unlucky, sure, that it didn''t fall in front of anyone else but chose him. But how did this equate to bloodshed? "I''ve never heard of this. Is this a Jing Country folk belief? Whoever steps in droppings will face bloodshed?" King Zhou Ling didn''t believe it. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, "It fell in front of your feet, not on you. It''s not you, but someone of your blood." King Zhou Ling''s expression, which had been firmly disbelieving, wavered a bit. Because Xiao Yunzhou, as the emperor of a country, was now speaking like a mystic chatan, but his expression was one of firm confidence, as if his words were absolutely true. As they say, a gentleman''s word is his bond, let alone the word of an emperor. "Is there anyone of your blood currently facing danger?" As Xiao Yunzhou spoke, he led the two kings who were intently listening to him, unconsciously passing through the duck houses and arriving in front of thest row of civilian houses. The duck house workers and personal guards thought he wanted to discuss confidential matters with the two men beside him, which was why he hade to this remote corner of the duck houses, and did not voice any objections. [Oh, it''s this house!] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice grew more urgent, [My old man''s meditation wasn''t in vain. He unconsciously, as if divinely guided, walked to the crime scene!] [Quick, rush in!] [That person is about to pour scalding soup down Princess Ronghua''s throat to poison her mute!] Xiao Yunzhou: "!" He almost couldn''t catch his breath, hurriedly quickening his pace and turning back to give a hand signal, calling for Wei Zheng to summon the guards to follow! "My younger generation is in danger?" King Zhou Ling, still unaware of the tragedy about to unfold just beyond the wall, only heard Xiao Yunzhou''s previous sentence and unhappily retorted, "The younger generation of my family are all safe and sound." His royal juniors, the crown prince, princes, and princesses were all in the Zhou Xing Imperial Pce, and other royal descendants also had guards and eunuchs attending to them. How could they be in danger when everything was fine? Where would bloodshede from? Let alone danger, even if they scraped a small piece of skin on their hands and bled a little, the guards and eunuchs would be punished. The servants wouldn''t dare to be careless. If something happened, there would surely be secret guards sending messages to him. King Zhou Ling said displeased, "What, Xiao Yunzhou, you''ve divined that my juniors are in trouble? If your spiritual cultivation is insufficient, don''t spout such unpleasant nonsense. This king doesn''t like it." But just as he said this, King Zhou Ling vaguely heard a woman''s desperate crying from the dpidated house just beyond the wall in front of him! The displeased and scolding expression on King Zhou Ling''s face suddenly froze. He couldn''t help but prick up his ears. "Kaizhi, don''t¡ª" "Help¡ª" The woman''s cries were very faint, as if weak and powerless. If the three kings hadn''t unconsciously walked to the wall of the house, close enough to hear, they might not have heard it at all. "What are you doing... I don''t understand... I may not have borne children for you, but I''ve taken concubines for you..." "I''ve used my dowry to support you, to help you raise children... why did you tie me up and bring me here to harm me..." King Zhou Ling''s face changed dramatically. Wait, wait a minute, why did this woman''s faint crying voice sound so much like his royal brother''s daughter, the Princess Ronghua he had personally bestowed the title upon? Years ago, his royal brother, aplished in both civil and military affairs, was the undisputed choice for crown prince. But during an autumn hunt, in order to protect his young son who had fallen from a horse, his royal brother injured his legs, and thus could not ascend to the throne and inherit the royal lineage. His royal brother then rmended him to the previous emperor, giving up his position as crown prince. At that time, he swore to his royal brother that since his brother had sacrificed his im to the throne to protect his young son, if he were to seed to the throne, he would surely protect his brother''s children as if they were his own! This Zhou Xing Kingdom would be shared between him and his royal brother! But after he ascended the throne, his royal brother requested to be stationed at the border of Zhou Xing, never to enter the imperial city for life. King Zhou Ling could only ce all his gratitude and respect for his royal brother onto his children. "Kaizhi, you''re not trying to harm me, are you..." The woman''s desperate and terrified low cries from inside the house seemed like a sharp de, stabbing into King Zhou Ling''s heart! Kaizhi... the husband of his royal brother''s daughter, Princess Ronghua?! How did they end up here?! "Hehe, Ronghua, let me make things clear before you die. I''ve given you bone-softening powder anyway, so you don''t have the strength to escape. Soon your throat will be scalded, and you won''t be able to speak either." "I''ll tell you clearly. Ten years ago when I entered Zhou Xing and saved you from a mad horse, it was all nned by my Yuan Mu Country. Men and women shouldn''t have physical contact, but after I saved you, we had skin contact. No matter how much King Zhou Ling doted on you, his beloved niece, no matter how reluctant he was to let you marry far away to my Yuan State, he had no choice but to agree to our marriage." "Moreover, I was your savior, and you fell for me at first sight, willingly following me back to Yuan." "But you were nothing more than a pawn for my Yuan State. These ten years, marrying you, this arrogant and foolish woman, being gentle to you, it was all a scheme, all fake! It disgusted me to no end!" "Now, it''s finally time to deal with you!" "If you die in Jing Country, after suffering humiliation and abuse before your death, guess what? King Zhou, who treats you like a precious pearl and your father like a benefactor, won''t he fly into a rage and help my Yuan State destroy Jing!?" The man''s voice inside the house was full of hatred and triumphant arrogance. But he still remembered not to be too loud before the deed was done, even suppressing hisughter. "Haha, go ahead and scream, cry all you want. In Jing Country, no one wille to save you¡ª" But halfway through hisughter, he heard a loud shout from outside. "Yuan Kaizhi, you bastard!" "?!" The vicious man inside the house, dressed in in clothes but unable to conceal his noble air, froze in expression. The next moment, with a bang, the door was kicked open. The vicious man inside, holding a bowl of hot soup in one hand and grabbing the woman''s hair with the other, turned his head and squinted to look. In an instant, he blinked! How... how could it be King Zhou?! No, impossible! It must be a dream! Definitely a dream! "A dream?" King Zhou Ling, furious beyond measure, rushed in and kicked him down, "I''ll give you a dream, I''ll give you a dream of death!" [Ding, King Zhou''s collection rate has reached 61%! King Zhou''s favorability towards Yuan State has dropped to -50%!] The system prompt rang out in Xiao Chuchu''s mind the next moment. Chapter 216 King Zhou Ling''s eyes bulged with rage as his guards kicked open the door, revealing the scene inside the room. The person being dragged by her hair and pinned to the ground was none other than his beloved niece, whom he had cherished since childhood! And in this room, the once seemingly dignified and gentle younger generation of the Yuan royal family now wore a hideous, cruel, and twisted expression! "You scoundrel!" King Zhou Ling stepped forward and kicked Yuan Kaizhi to the ground. Yuan Kaizhi fell, his handsome phoenix eyes wide with shock. "No... it''s impossible..." "King Zhou... how can he be here?" "No, he couldn''t possibly know about my n..." King Zhou Ling, already embarrassed at being deceived, became even more enraged upon hearing this. He kicked Yuan Kaizhi several more times. At first, Yuan Kaizhi protected his head and cried out in pain, but gradually he began to fight back! Yuan Kaizhi looked at King Zhou Ling and the middle-aged attendant who had followed him into the room. The wariness and fear in his eyes turned to ruthlessness and a resolve to see things through to the end. "What audacious thieves dare to break into a private residence in broad daylight?" "Old Xu," Yuan Kaizhi called out, "seize these two intruders!" He had brought a team of skilled fighters with him into Jing Country and wasn''t afraid of King Zhou Ling alone! Whether the other party was traveling incognito or had some other reason for being there, it could only be considered King Zhou''s bad luck. Who told him to be so careless as toe to this ce of all the vastnds between heaven and earth, stumbling upon his devious plot! "Intruders, ording to thews of Yuan State, those who break into private homes andmit murder can be killed in self-defense by the homeowner!" Yuan Kaizhi gritted his teeth. At the prime age of thirty, he was stronger than the aging King Zhou Ling. Instead of dodging the king''s kick, he caught his foot and pressed the king''s neck to the ground. The middle-aged guard behind King Zhou Ling rushed forward angrily but was quickly surrounded by five skilled fighters hidden in the dpidated cottage. "Uncle..." Princess Ronghua, lying on the ground, saw the scene and turned pale, "Flee quickly!" "Haha, King Zhou, I didn''t want it to be this way," Yuan Kaizhi narrowed his eyes, pressing on King Zhou Ling''s neck, "But I have no choice. It''s your own bad luck toe to Jing Country at such a time." "And of all ces, you had toe to Mao Family Vige. Your luck really is terrible." King Zhou Ling''s eyes flickered, his heart suddenly turbulent. Luck? Pinned to the ground, he couldn''t help but look towards the tightly closed door outside. In his initial anger, he had forgotten to think carefully, but now Yuan Kaizhi''s words reminded him that it was Xiao Yunzhou who had brought him here! It was Xiao Yunzhou who suggested visiting the duck farming area, and it was Xiao Yunzhou who chose Mao Family Vige, then came to inspect the duck shed. And it was Xiao Yunzhou who said his younger generation was in ''mortal danger'', using the opportunity of conversation to bring him outside this cottage! King Zhou Ling''s brow twitched involuntarily. ''There''s a powerful fortune-teller in Jing Country who predicted my deadly crisis and helped me avoid disaster...'' The words of the King of Chu suddenly surfaced in King Zhou Ling''s mind. ''I didn''t believe it at first, but everything has unfolded exactly as this Jing Country expert predicted.'' ''Everything has developed ording to the secret instructions Xiao Yunzhou gave me.'' ''He urately predicted two deadly crises without a single error!'' King Zhou Ling drew in a sharp breath. Did Jing Country really have such a powerful mystic? Or did Jing Country have spies everywhere, allowing Xiao Yunzhou to know everything clearly, whether about Yuan Kaizhi or their entry into Jing Country''s territory? Whichever guess was correct, it proved that Jing Country was not to be underestimated! For the first time, King Zhou Ling felt fortunate that he hade and learned all this. Otherwise, how could he have blindly helped Yuan State attack such a formidable Jing Country and hope to win? "Yuan Kaizhi," King Zhou Ling closed his eyes, "I''ll give you one more chance. If you release Princess Ronghua and me, and reveal all of Yuan State''s plots, I''ll spare your life." "Haha, if I release you, will you really let me go?" Yuan Kaizhiughed viciously, "Do you think I''m a fool? Get this straight, your life is in my hands now." "I''ll kill you first, then kill Ronghua," Yuan Kaizhi said in a low voice, "Then I''ll report to the authorities in Jing Country that you killed my wife, and I identally killed you in self-defense." "In Jing Country, any small yamen won''t recognize your face, King Zhou. Whatever I say goes!" Yuan Kaizhi became more excited as he thought about it, "When King Zhou disappears and doesn''t return, Crown Prince Zhou Xing will ascend the throne. Then when someone reports to the new emperor that King Zhou died in Jing Country, hahaha, your Zhou Xing Kingdom will still help my Yuan State attack Jing!" As he spoke, Yuan Kaizhi pulled out a dagger from his sleeve and was about to slit King Zhou''s throat¡ªbut with a bang, the door was kicked open again. "?!" Yuan Kaizhi was shocked, his dagger moving recklessly to cut King Zhou''s neck, but an arrow whistled through the air, hitting him directly in the arm holding the knife! "Ah!" Yuan Kaizhi cried out in pain, his entire body thrown back by the powerful prating force of the flying arrow, pinning him to the wooden cab on the back wall of the room! King Zhou Ling, who had been trapped by him, was knocked sideways to the ground. "Who?" Yuan Kaizhi howled in pain and fear, looking up, "Old Xu,e quickly! Protect me, kill these intruders!" But in the next moment, he saw more than a dozen strong men pour in from outside, subduing all his henchmen. Soon after, a handsome man with a noble bearing, dressed in loose cloth that somewhat resembled a Taoist robe, walked in with his hands behind his back. Behind him followed a beardless attendant with a fairplexion and an imposing elder with graying hair. "Well, Brother Zhou, didn''t I tell you? Your younger generation was indeed in mortal danger. Do you believe me now?" The noble-looking middle-aged handsome man smiled, "Brother Chu, thank you for following us to watch this drama." King Zhou Ling''s pupils dted in shock. Yuan Kaizhi''s face, however, turned as white as a sheet. ''We''? What ''we''? In Jing Country, who could address King Zhou as ''Brother Zhou'' and refer to himself as ''we'', except for one person! How is this possible? How could the Emperor of Jing Country be here as well? Yuan Kaizhi could hardly believe he wasn''t dreaming. Why would the Emperor of Jing Country apany King Zhou Ling to this small vige, to the home of a fool? It made no sense! "I couldn''t have been exposed!" Before setting out, he had deceived Ronghua, saying he wanted to experience life as amon married couple with her. He had her dress as a vige woman and kept their itinerary secret from her attendants and guards, departing in secret. All along the way, they had acted like an ordinary farming couple, riding ox carts and staying in viges... Throughout the journey, they had only addressed each other as ''wife'' and ''husband'', never using their real names. How could their identities possibly have been exposed? "Who exactly are you?!" Yuan Kaizhi''s right arm was covered in blood, dripping onto the floor. But Xiao Yunzhou merely smiled slightly, as if he hadn''t heard, and looked earnestly at King Zhou Ling, who was helping his niece to her feet. "Well, Brother Zhou?" "When the snipe and the m grapple, the fisherman profits. Do you see clearly now?" King Zhou Ling narrowed his eyes, looking back at Yuan Kaizhi with bloodshot eyes, "The alliance between Zhou Xing Kingdom and Yuan Mu Country is hereby dissolved, effective immediately!" Yuan Kaizhi stared in disbelief. "The Yuan people have insulted my elder brother''s daughter, as if killing my own flesh and blood. I will be enemies with Yuan for life!" Xiao Yunzhou finally breathed a sigh of relief, "Then I''ll leave these people for you to deal with, Brother Zhou." King Zhou nodded gratefully and gave a look to his middle-aged attendant, who immediately pulled the screaming Yuan Kaizhi off the wooden cab and dragged him outside to be dealt with! Xiao Yunzhou frowned and followed them out, not wanting his daughter to see such a gruesome scene. But as soon as he stepped outside, he found his precious Chu Chu in the arms of a guard, fearfully covering her eyes with her small hands, yet peeking through a gap to watch Yuan Kaizhi''s execution¡ª However, before she could see the de fall, she eximed. [Oh my, I see the Eight Trigrams on Yuan Kaizhi''s body.] [He actually knows the Yuan King''s secret¡ªgoodness, the Yuan King is impotent!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened in shock. [Working for love isn''t sustainable. Search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments. Please support us!] Chapter 217 Xiao Chuchu dared not watch Yuan Kaizhi being killed on the spot, covering her eyes with her hands. But unexpectedly, through a small gap, her ''gossip eye'' still caught sight of the system text next to Yuan Kaizhi''s terrified face. With this, she stumbled upon a huge piece of gossip. Immediately, her inner thoughts flowed, [So it turns out it''s not the King of Chu who can''t have children, it''s the Yuan King!] [The Yuan King can''t get aroused when he sees women!] [That''s why he''s been so obsessed with the Fucha Noble Consort he encountered by chance, he found her stunningly beautiful and wanted to snatch her away, wondering if she could make him feel something...] Xiao Chuchu was dumbfounded by this major revtion. [The Empress of Yuan Country is too pitiful, after the royal wedding, the Yuan King refuses to lightmps every night, wanting to be in darkness, making her believe that''s what real consummation is like, but it''s not... She''s been deceived all this time.] [Good grief, the Yuan King ismitting marriage fraud!] Xiao Chuchu''s eyes were opened wide, and she couldn''t help but curse inwardly. [The Yuan Empress still thinks she''s the one who can''t bear children, feeling it''s her own problem, consumed by guilt.] [But she''s still a virgin, how on earth could she give birth!] [As a result, this damned Yuan King uses the excuse that the empress can''t bear children to constantly emotionally abuse her, confining her, when in reality he''s just afraid that one day she''ll figure it out and reveal that he''s impotent! If the empress''s family learns the truth, would they rebel?] Xiao Chuchu was filled with indignation. Xiao Yunzhou listening beside her was rendered speechless, finally snapping back to his senses at this moment, instantly ring at Yuan Kaizhi under the guard''s de. "Hold your de¡ª!" The guard was startled, and King Zhou Ling also froze for a moment. Yuan Kaizhi breathed urgently, clutching the arrow wound on his right shoulder, "Prince Jing, save me! I am the Yuan King''s nephew, if you save me, the Yuan State will surely be grateful!" King Zhou Ling sneered, "Hah." Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, "Brother Zhou, Brother Chu, don''t you want to know more secrets about the Yuan State?" Yuan Kaizhi''s body trembled. The King Zhou Ling and King of Chu''s eyes flickered, clearly showing some interest. "Take him with us, we''re returning to the pce." Xiao Yunzhou turned to instruct his guards. "Even if we bring him back, he won''t live long¡ª" The King of Chu walked in front of Yuan Kaizhi, his toe hovering near his shoulder. The arrow piercing Yuan Kaizhi''s right arm had prated through the muscle, bleeding continuously. Once removed, blood would gush out, and he could hardlyst two or three days. "Even under severe interrogation, he wouldn''t have the strength to answer." King Zhou Ling nodded. But halfway through speaking, the King of Chu narrowed his eyes and turned to look at Xiao Yunzhou, "Could it be, as my eldest daughter said, that your Jing Country truly possesses miraculous suturing techniques?" "Even if someone''s chest is cut open or abdomen sliced, they can still be saved?" "And the wounds won''t fester?" The King of Chu''s questions left King Zhou Ling increasingly dumbfounded. King Zhou Ling slowly turned his head, trying to get a negative answer from Xiao Yunzhou. Saving someone whose chest has been cut open? Such medical skill is impossible, right? "Well, we can''t say everyone can be saved, it still depends on the condition of the internal organs." Xiao Yunzhou indeed shook his head. King Zhou Ling breathed a sigh of relief, he knew Jing Country couldn''t possibly possess such divine medical skills. If Jing Country''s physicians had such powerful treatment methods, wouldn''t the King of Chu have told him earlier? Sure enough, Xiao Yunzhou shook his head in denial, and King Zhou Ling''s whole body rxed. He felt reassured now, Jing Country''s medical skills definitely wouldn''t be ahead of their Zhou Xing Kingdom¡ª But before King Zhou Ling could finish his thought, he heard Xiao Yunzhou quickly raise his chin, pointing at Yuan Kaizhi, and adding, "But for cases like his, where internal organs are undamaged and it''s only external flesh wounds that need suturing... there''s a 70-80% chance of survival." "!" King Zhou Ling nearly bit his own tongue, "70-80%? Xiao Yunzhou, Taoists don''t lie, don''t break your precepts." The King of Chu narrowed his eyes, "So, the suturing techniques you''ve mastered have such a high survival rate now." "That day, when I heard Yunwu say your harem concubine saved a hunter on the street whose intestines had been pulled out by a ck bear, I thought you were putting on a show for her to see." "I didn''t expect it to be true?" Jing Country''s unique gatherings had physician consultation booths, but ordinary people who came for treatment wouldn''t easily undergo surgery. Moreover, after learning of his death omen, the King of Chu had hurriedly returned to his country, so he hadn''t personally witnessed the suturing medical technique. "May we observe?" The King of Chu showed great interest. Xiao Yunzhou pondered for a moment, then nodded. King Zhou Ling followed all the way back to the capital city, feeling dazed, as if his soul had left his body. Jing Country not only had firearms but also divine medical skills... Fortunately, he hade to Jing territory, otherwise he would have beenpletely in the dark, helping Yuan attack Jing, and the consequences would have been unimaginable. If Jing Country wasn''t destroyed but counterattacked them, the distant Yuan State''s soldiers might still be able to escape, but their nearby Zhou Xing Kingdom would face great cmity! "King of Chu, you knew about so many divine skills of Jing Country, why didn''t you tell me!" King Zhou Ling now felt a chill running down the back of his neck. King of Chu: "...You''re on that side of Jing, I''m on this side." "Why don''t you reflect on yourself, why I know and you don''t." "...!" King Zhou Ling was left speechless. [Ah, so this is why they say the most valuable thing in the world is information.] [Dyed information,ck of transparency in information, can all lead to decision-making errors.] Xiao Chuchu listened to the two kings argue and couldn''t help but sigh. [In our ancient times,munication isn''t developed, it takes several days to travel between two ces, so mutual understanding is insufficient.] [The person who possesses the most information is the one who grasps the initiative in the world!] The more Xiao Yunzhou listened, the more reverent his gaze became towards his daughter in his arms. Looking around the world now, who possessed the most information? It must be his little immortal princess! Her immortal technique¡ªthe gossip eye¡ªhad seen through peopleing and going! Now, even the secrets of the Yuan King thousands of miles away were in her grasp! Xiao Yunzhou had suppressed himself the whole way, refraining from telling King Zhou Ling and the King of Chu about this huge secret of the Yuan King. After all, it was heavenly intelligence! How could King Zhou Ling and the King of Chu be worthy of knowing without paying some price? Xiao Yunzhou resolutely kept his mouth shut until they returned to the pce and saw Liu Chaniang waiting for Chuchu''s return at the door of the imperial study. Only then could he no longer hold back. "Chaniang, big news!" "First, have your pce maid who has learned some suturing techniques roughly stitch up that man, just enough to keep him barely alive." Xiao Yunzhou was also disgusted to the extreme by Yuan Kaizhi''s actions. He didn''t really want to let this scum live and harm others anymore. After this matter was settled, Yuan Kaizhi should pay the price for what he had done! Thinking this, Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but urgently pull Liu Chaniang into the left study room, lowering his voice to share the gossip with her. Heaven knows how hard it had been for him to hold back all this way! It was truly lonely having no one to share such a huge secret with! "Chaniang, what do you think about this earth-shattering secret I learned from Yuan Kaizhi." Xiao Yunzhou lowered his voice, not letting his daughter Chuchu outside the room hear. "Can I spread it around?" "If we widely publicize this matter, would it make things difficult for that Yuan Empress?" Xiao Yunzhou was now a man who had read "Five Years Later She Came Back" and regrly heard Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts, he had trulye to respect women! This gossip about the Yuan King''s impotence not only concerned the Yuan King, but also the women in the Yuan King''s harem, and the birth mothers of those ''princes and princesses''! Xiao Yunzhou was somewhat conflicted. "What do you think, if I spread the shameful news of the Yuan King''s impotence, would those women be implicated because of this? Would the Yuan King assume it was one of them who leaked the secret, and would I be endangering their lives?" Xiao Yunzhou himself practiced Taoism, focusing on umting good deeds. He didn''t want to carelessly implicate the lives of innocent women, not only would it harm others, but it would also affect his precious little princess who had opened her heavenly eye and revealed heavenly secrets! "This..." Liu Chaniang hadn''t expected to wait for her daughter in the imperial study only to encounter such huge gossip! For a moment, she was stunned. But after some thought, Liu Chaniang also frowned, "We are far from the Yuan State, if the Yuan King discovers his secret has been exposed and flies into a rage out of shame, harming the Yuan Empress, we are too far away to help." That was indeed true. Xiao Yunzhou sighed. But should they just let it go? [Hey, I saw the gossip on Princess Ronghua.] Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts faintly reached Liu Chaniang and Xiao Yunzhou''s ears through the wall. [It turns out her scumbag husband Yuan Kaizhi fears the Yuan King''s uncle, the Duke of National Defense, the most. Oh my! This Duke of National Defense has actually been secretly in love with the Yuan Empress all along!] [Huh, the Duke of National Defense isn''t that old either, he joined the army at fourteen, he''s only thirty-five this year, but because his merits overshadowed the monarch he was called back to the capital and had his military tally taken away! Princess Ronghua even thinks the Duke of National Defense is a bit handsome!] [Damn, Princess Ronghua secretly ships the Empress of Yuan Country with the Duke of National Defense every time she sees the Empress!] [She feels like the Duke of National Defense''s gaze on the Empress is so intense it could form strings.] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang were stunned as they listened. [Oh my, if the Duke of National Defense knew how disgusting his nephew, the Yuan King, is, would he eliminate the Yuan King for the sake of his beauty?] Xiao Chuchu couldn''t help but fantasize. Xiao Yunzhou suddenly stood up. [Working for love doesn''tst long. Search for gerS36r01ZZ on Alipay to receive a red envelope for more favorable payments. Please support us!] Chapter 218 Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang never expected there would be more to this story! [In Princess Ronghua''s eyes, the Yuan King was not as kind and amiable as her uncle, King Zhou Ling.] [Damn, the current Queen Yuan is the Yuan King''s fourth empress!] [Of the first three empresses, one died of dysentery, onemitted suicide while confined in the Cold Pce for her mistakes, and another also died of sudden illness.] [Oh my, could it be that the first three empresses discovered the Yuan King''s secret of being impotent, and were all killed by him...] [Hm? My gossip vision has failed. Damn it, system, you cut off the update at the crucial moment?] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang stared wide-eyed. [I see, Princess Ronghua is too weak, her mental state is unstable, so I can''t continue reading the gossip.] Outside the study, Xiao Chuchu was being carried by her wet nurse to change clothes. By coincidence, she encountered Princess Ronghua, who had just been rescued and was about to bathe and change. Princess Ronghua''s features weren''t strikingly beautiful, but she was clearly a delicate flower raised with care since childhood. Though her eyes couldn''t hide a hint of pampered youngdy''s air, they were pure and transparent, showing little scheming. Even now, shocked and hurt by her husband''s deception, she still showed some concern for Xiao Chuchu in the wet nurse''s arms. "Quickly, take the little princess inside. Don''t let her catch a chill out here." Princess Ronghua had no children of her own, but she loved children. Now, seeing such an adorable baby as Xiao Chuchu, she couldn''t help wanting to get closer, but she knew it wasn''t appropriate. She was clearly not a person of good fortune now. Her husband was like a wolf, everything about their marriage was a lie. Her marriage was unhappy, her judgment of men was poor, and she had no children. She now realized that Yuan Kaizhi had likely deliberately prevented her from having children, having long nned to send her to her death today. Thinking of this, Princess Ronghua didn''t dare touch a soft, beautiful baby like Xiao Chuchu, fearing her misfortune might affect the child. But Xiao Chuchu blinked and couldn''t help reaching out her little hand to touch Princess Ronghua''s dust-covered cheek. [Yuan Kaizhi is inhuman, but he finally did one good thing.] [Having a child with such a scumbag would only ruin one''s life.] [Having no kids is actually the best oue.] [Princess Ronghua, you''re only in your twenties, it''s the perfect age to find a second spring~] Liu Chaniang almost couldn''t help nodding inside the room. Outside, Princess Ronghua, who had been given a muscle rxant, was powerless and being supported by two of Liu Chaniang''s maids. Even if she wanted to dodge, she had no strength to do so. Xiao Chuchu''s little hand touched her cheek directly. Princess Ronghua was stunned. She had just passed by theke and seen her reflection in the water - her ck hair was disheveled, her hairpins had fallen out, and her cheeks were covered in dust from being pushed to the ground by Yuan Kaizhi. Children are sensitive. She hadn''t expected that the little princess of Jing Country would still be willing to touch her. Princess Ronghua''s eyes reddened involuntarily. Her past impulsiveness and persistence in marrying into the Yuan State, despite the opposition of King Zhou and her parents, had now turned into regret. All her weakness transformed into rolling tears with Xiao Chuchu''s touch. If only she could start over... "Let Princess Ronghua rest in my chambers," Liu Chaniang couldn''t help but walk out of the side study, feeling sympathetic seeing Ronghua crying like this. Xiao Yunzhou pondered for a moment and nodded. He worked on memorials night after night, putting in overtime, and had long stopped staying in the harem. "Alright. I entrust her to you without worry," Xiao Yunzhou confidently handed the person over to Liu Chaniang to take away. Turning around, he saw King Zhou Ling''s concerned gaze. "Brother Xiao," after several twists and turns, King Zhou now dared not address Xiao Yunzhou by name alone, showing how Jing Country''s status had risen in his heart, "I should take Ronghua back to the embassy." "She''s been frightened, staying with family would help stabilize her emotions." King Zhou was reluctant to let his niece stay in the unfamiliar imperial pce of Jing Country. But Xiao Yunzhou patted him, "Seeing you will make her think of the past more easily. It''s better for her to stay with Lady Liu." "You didn''t bring many pce maids with you this time. It''s better to let the women stay together, they''ll have more inmon to talk about." King Zhou wanted to say more, but seeing his niece already walking away in tears with the others, he had to close his mouth. Instead, he turned his full attention to Yuan Kaizhi before him! He saw a pce maid with a needle and thread, stitching up therge hole in Yuan Kaizhi''s flesh¡ª She held tweezers in both hands, with the tweezers gripping a needle, threading it through, sewing up the fleshyer byyer. Yuan Kaizhi cried out in pain at first, but soon after drinking a bowl of something like alcohol and having some medicine applied, his cries of pain gradually subsided and he fell into a deep sleep. Before long, King Zhou and the King of Chu saw that Yuan Kaizhi''s arm waspletely stitched up, his breathing was steady, and he showed little sign of suffering. "This... truly miraculous skills!" Having seen it with their own eyes, the two kings couldn''t help but believe in the superiority of Jing Country''s medical arts. "Would Jing Country be willing to teach this medical skill to my Zhou Xing Kingdom? I''m willing to pay handsomely for it!" "My Chu State is also willing to offer a fortune!" Xiao Yunzhou sped his hands behind his back, smiling with satisfaction, "Let this king consider it. It''s gettingte, you two should go rest. How abouting back tomorrow to interrogate Yuan Kaizhi?" King Zhou frowned, looked at the darkening sky, and could only agree. "I''lle back in the morning to check on Ronghua. If she''s not well, I''ll take her back to care for her personally." "No problem," Xiao Yunzhou nodded. ...... The next day, an anxious King Zhou dragged the King of Chu into the imperial pce of Jing Country early in the morning. Their guards were left outside the pce, not allowed to enter, and were even required to remove their swords. Despite this, both kingsplied. "Jing Country has powerful mystics, and advanced firearms, as well as superior medical skills," King Zhou advised the middle-aged guard apanying him, "Even if you followed us in, if Xiao Yunzhou wanted to kill me in the pce, it wouldn''t be difficult." King Zhou was now somewhat convinced of Jing Country''s capabilities. He was now more worried about his niece Ronghua, and even more resentful towards the Yuan State! While he rushed into the pce, expecting to see a dispirited Ronghua in need of familyfort, he instead saw his niece with rosy cheeks and bright eyes. "Uncle, you''re here." "Oh, about going to stay at the embassy? Can I go a few dayster?" "I want to sleep with Chuchu, that''s the little princess. I also want to watch opera and eat fried skewers with Chaniang, that''s Lady Liu." "And I want to drink milk tea and y ''Who''s the Tycoon'' with Qiu Li, oh, Qiu Li is Lady Liu''s maid..." "Anyway, I''m quite happy here." Ronghua blushed. In just one night, not only had she recovered from the muscle rxant, but her mood had improved as well! King Zhou was shocked. What was milk tea, what was ''Who''s the Tycoon'', what were fried skewers? Watching opera, was that the ex-husband''s cremation opera? King Zhou took a deep breath, "Today we''re going to interrogate Yuan Kaizhi." Princess Ronghua''s excited expression instantly turned to pain, but soon a hint of determination appeared. She gritted her teeth and turned to Liu Chaniang, "Sister, would you like to see a real ex-husband''s cremation?" King Zhou: "!" Liu Chaniang nodded approvingly at Princess Ronghua. [Awoo,] Xiao Chuchu excitedly waved her fist, [Go, Rong.Nuoerlu.Hua!] [Yuan Kaizhi knows the secret of the Yuan King''s impotence.] [Ronghua, the new Queen Yuan and Duke of National Defense CP you''ve been shipping might actuallye true!] Xiao Chuchu''s excited thoughts made even Liu Chaniang stumble guiltily. In just one night, not only Chuchu, but Liu Chaniang herself had be a shipper of the ''kind, deceived little white rabbit new Queen Yuan VS physically strong, big bad wolf, long-suffering Duke of National Defense'' CP after consuming this gossip. [Charge forward, our CP faction, we might stand up this time~] Chapter 219 Princess Ronghua and Liu Chaniang rode in one carriage to the dungeon of the Ministry of Justice. Xiao Yunzhou shared a carriage with the King of Chu and the King of Zhou. Xiao Yunzhou had originally wanted to show off by carrying Xiao Chuchu onto his own carriage, but Liu Chaniang snatched her away. "Us women will ride in one carriage," said Liu Chaniang, fearing that a group of smelly men would corrupt her daughter. Fortunately, the Ministry of Justice wasn''t far from the pce, so Xiao Yunzhou didn''t argue with her. "Brother Xiao, you seem overly concerned about the little princess," the King of Zhou, grateful to Xiao Yunzhou for his niece''s sake, sincerely advised him after seeing the women board the carriage. "But she''s still not even a year old, a child who needs to be carried. Taking her in and out like this is neither good for the child nor for you." Xiao Yunzhou''s eyebrows twitched, and he couldn''t help but look at the King of Zhou as if he were an idiot! If it weren''t for him taking the little princess along, by this time next year, grass would be growing on Princess Ronghua''s grave! Besides, his fairy-like little princess just loved going out to y. She was precocious, and if kept in the pce all day, the little one would be unhappy. Xiao Yunzhou personally saw his precious daughter onto the carriage, watching her curiously peek her rosy little face out from behind the curtain to look around. His heart melted. "You don''t understand," he said. King of Zhou: "..." What didn''t he understand? It''s not like he hadn''t watched children grow up before! "Spoiling her too much isn''t a good thing. Well, I''ve said my piece," the King of Zhou couldn''t stand Xiao Yunzhou''s stubborn personality. The King of Chu''s eyes flickered slightly as he lowered his voice, "Xiao Yunzhou, be honest, there are no outsiders here." "We, Chu and Jing, are allies, and I see that Zhou Xing also intends to form ties with your Jing Country." "Just tell us honestly, did you receive guidance from some metaphysical master? Could this little princess perhaps be the source of good fortune for your Jing Country?" Xiao Yunzhou''s temple throbbed. He had been hit right on the mark! How did the old fox King of Chu guess that his fairy-like daughter was a source of good fortune? This wouldn''t do. He couldn''t let people know, lest the old fox try to snatch her away! But just as he was about to refute, King Zhou Ling interrupted first. "Old Chu, you''re even more nonsensical than Xiao Yunzhou. I really don''t know what to say to you." "I can believe that Jing Country has great masters, and I acknowledge that Jing Country has capabilities." "But to say that a half-grown child still carried in arms is the source of an entire nation''s fortune isughable!" King Zhou Ling shook his head. "Are Jing Country''s rapid-fire guns, dragon bone water wheels, and legendary storybooks all brought about by a one-year-old infant?" The King of Chu hissed, "You''re right." He had been overly swayed by the idea of metaphysical masters. But while King Zhou was lecturing the King of Chu, Xiao Yunzhou''s entire face had turned red. Indeed! Damn it all, that was exactly how it was! Inadvertently, King Zhou had spoken the truth. Xiao Yunzhou''s face remained flushed for thetter half of the journey, only recovering when they entered the Ministry of Justice. ...... Yuan Kaizhi was confined in the deepest cell of the prison, and no one had tortured him. Hisplexion had improved somewhat, though his skin was still pale from blood loss. However, there were no signs of infected or festering wounds, and he was still fairly lucid. Yuan Kaizhi opened his eyes upon hearing the sound, and when he saw that the visitor was Princess Ronghua, he was stunned. In just one night, their situations had beenpletely reversed! She was in full regalia, while he wore prisoner''s clothes! She was the center of attention, while he bore shackles on his neck! She stood tall, while he knelt on the ground! "Ronghua, I was confused for a moment, I was wrong... I was only joking with you yesterday, how could I really harm you!" Yuan Kaizhi, not wanting to die, immediately knelt on the ground begging for mercy, weeping bitterly. "For the sake of our many years as husband and wife, Ronghua, exin to the King of Zhou and the King of Jing, I wouldn''t harm you!" "You can beat or scold me however you like, Ronghua, as long as it makes you happy! Just save me!" Yuan Kaizhi''s weak appearance as he knelt begging for mercy made Princess Ronghua''s face turn from white to green. In her mind, that gant and handsome man who had once saved her from a wild horse waspletely destroyed by Yuan Kaizhi''s weeping image. "Yuan Kaizhi, how blind I was to have liked such a despicable man as you!" "Sweet-talking but treacherous, cowardly as a mouse!" "You truly disgust me!" She didn''t even want to look at him anymore. "King of Jing, Uncle Emperor, this man is yours to deal with." "Caning, burning, death by a thousand cuts, whatever you like!" Yuan Kaizhi''s eyes widened. Princess Ronghua took a deep breath, looking into his frightened eyes, "Yesterday you wanted to poison me mute, disfigure me, then sell me to a mentally impaired vige man, to have me killed in Jing Country." "Now, even if I return it all to you in full, Yuan, you won''t be angry, will you? It''s just reciprocity, after all." Yuan Kaizhi opened his mouth, all the spirit seeming to have been drained from him as he slumped to the ground. But he quickly crawled towards Xiao Yunzhou and King Zhou Ling, begging for help, "Spare my life, I can tell you about the city defenses and troop deployments of Yuan State! I can tell you about the rotation times of the Imperial Guard!" [Wow, the gossip I see with my Gossip Eye changes every day.] Xiao Chuchu, held by Liu Chaniang, stood outside the prison cell. She saw the Eight Trigrams text on the side of Yuan Kaizhi''s face, which seemed to update in real-time as he shouted. [Yuan border defenses: General Ma Sheng is a gambling addict, heavily in debt, very easy to bribe...] [Lu Nan, themander of the Imperial Guard, owns thirteen private estates and epts bribes. It turns out, he was the one who sold the secret of the Yuan King''s impotence to Yuan Kaizhi, asking for a price of 100,000 taels of gold...] [Let me see, the third piece of gossip today is that the Yuan King has long wanted to make a move against the Marquis of Zhenguo!] [The 35-year-old Marquis of Zhenguo, whose merit overshadowed the monarch, avoided death by iming his old illness had red up and he couldn''t take on the heavy responsibility of the Ministry of War after returning to the capital.] [But recently, the Yuan King wanted to attack our Jing Country by passing through Zhou Xing Kingdom, and the Marquis of Zhenguo opposed it in court. The Yuan King has murderous intentions again, wanting to eliminate the Marquis of Zhenguo!] [They''re uncle and nephew with only a six-year age difference, yet the Yuan King shows no regard for this uncle at all.] Xiao Chuchu read three pieces of today''s gossip in one breath, suddenly bing alert. Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang were also listening with rapt attention, almost bing entranced. "Don''t kill me... if you kill me, you won''t know about the defenses, you won''t know the Yuan King''s secrets..." Yuan Kaizhi shouted. King Zhou Ling gritted his teeth. The King of Chu clicked his tongue, "Really good at threatening, but don''t you know whose territory you''re in? Jing Country has metaphysical masters, no matter how loudly you shout, it''s useless." King Zhou was stunned, turning his head to look at Xiao Yunzhou, "Your Jing Country''s masters can calcte all these defenses?" Surely that''s impossible? "Ahem." Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help but cough, but he couldn''t even shake his head! What could he do? His fairy-like little princess really could calcte all this! She could know everything about a person just by looking at them, and in great detail too! What to do when she''s so excellent? Xiao Yunzhou took a deep breath, "Come, begin the torture!" "Everyone, especially the women, should wait in the next room." "No, don''t torture me! Otherwise, I''ll die without telling you anything!" After watching his daughter being carried away by Liu Chaniang and Princess Ronghua leaving, Xiao Yunzhou finally proceeded to deal with Yuan Kaizhi along with the King of Chu and the King of Zhou. "Not talking?" Xiao Yunzhou sneered, calling for heated iron blocks to be brought. "Yuan Kaizhi, it''s fine if you don''t talk. Even before We heard you open your mouth, our Jing Country''s masters had already calcted everything!" "What?! Impossible!" "You know your Yuan King''s secret, for which he has killed many people, isn''t that right?" Xiao Yunzhou''s words made Yuan Kaizhi''s eyes widen. "And your border defensemander, Ma Sheng, you''ve bribed him, haven''t you?" Yuan Kaizhi looked up in terror. The King of Chu and the King of Zhou were both stunned. Xiao Yunzhou chuckled and took another step forward, continuing to show off. "You once gave 100,000 taels of gold to Lu Nan of the Imperial Guard, didn''t you?" Yuan Kaizhi: "!" King of Zhou, King of Chu: "!" How did they know? Jing Country was separated from Yuan State by Zhou Xing Kingdom! How did Jing Country know all this? Yuan Kaizhi was so frightened he wet himself! These secrets, he had never even told his bedmate! Chapter 220 "What about you, Duke of National Defense," Xiao Yunzhou fell silent for a moment before continuing, "You''re not quite in King Yuan''s good graces, right?" Yuan Kaizhi waspletely stupefied. He swore that he had never shared these innermost secrets with Princess Ronghua! He never treated Princess Ronghua as someone close to him, and the remaining concubines, for Yuan Kaizhi, were nothing more than women for his amusement! What would they understand? Yuan Kaizhi never discussed these military affairs or political matters with any of his bedmates, let alone his own secrets! So Princess Ronghua wouldn''t know, she wouldn''t know, she wouldn''t tell King Jing or King Zhou yesterday or today! So, how did the Emperor of Jing Country find out? Yuan Kaizhi was scared witless! "Did you...buy off my housekeeper?" Yuan Kaizhi trembled from head to toe. Nothing was scarier than beingpletely exposed in front of the enemy. "No, even the housekeeper doesn''t know these things!" Yuan Kaizhi bribed Commander Lu with 100,000 taels of gold to get news from King Yuan and the court. Even his personal stewards were kept in the dark! Because when Commander Lu revealed the big secret that King Yuan was impotent and killed three consecutive Queens, Yuan Kaizhi was terrified. The matter pertained to King Yuan''s manly dignity, which was linked to the imperial throne¡­ Yuan Kaizhi didn¡¯t dare to think about it. If King Yuan was impotent, how did the current Crown Princee to be, how did the other princese to be, and the suspicion that the imperial lineage might''ve been muddled freaked him out! He was afraid that King Yuan would find out that he knew the secret and would kill him to silence him. Yuan Kaizhi regretted bribing Commander Lu. That Commander Lu deliberately roped him into this, tethered him to this sinking ship, told him this utterly useless secret that only brought potential disaster! Yuan Kaizhi resented Commander Lu to his core. To save himself, heter took care of the ountants who managed the 100,000 taels of gold, the stewards, and the servants who apanied him out that day one after another. "All those who could possibly know are dead!" Yuan Kaizhi bulged his eyes out, looking at Xiao Yunzhou as though he had seen a ghost. "I dealt with them within the six months of returning to my fiefdom..." Making it look like ''going home'', ''visiting rtives and not returning'', ''absconding with stolen silver''... Dead people tell no tales! Moreover, Yuan Kaizhi killed those people just to be safe. In fact, on the day when Commander Lu revealed King Yuan''s secret, the stewards and servants were left outside the room! Most probably didn''t hear anything. So how did the Emperor of Jing Country find out? Yuan Kaizhi''s eyes widened in shock, "Did you, Jing Country, also buy off Commander Lu Nan!?" That was the only exnation. Yes, it must have been that! The look of horror on Yuan Kaizhi''s face dissipated by a significant margin. There were no ghosts or deities in this world, only traitors. He thered on and on without context, but the King of Zhou and King Chu standing by were very clever and managed to deduce most of the conversation''s content. King Zhou also breathed a sigh of relief on the spot. Jing Country relied on buying out inside informers rather than shamans, which was much better. Even if Jing Country was capable of the former, it was still frightening. However, it was slightly morefortable than relying on shamans. Once ites to the methods of the enlightened, no stone is left unturned, they''re close to celestial beings. It made the King of Zhou lose his courage topete! The King of Zhou dare not fight with the heavens! But as soon as the King of Zhou rxed a bit, he heard Yuan Kaizhi going crazy again. "No, no, no, it''s not bribery!" "If you guys bribed Lu Nan from the Imperial Guards, then how did you know about me and General Ma Sheng, who''s on my side? Lu Nan didn''t know anything about it!" "Also, the Duke of National Defense is despised by Yuan King..." Yuan Kaizhi nced up fearfully. No matter how many unpleasant truths the Duke of National Defense told, he was bound to be killed by the Yuan King sooner orter. This was something no one had told him; he discovered it on his own! Because the way Yuan King looked at the Duke of National Defense was the same as his gaze towards Princess Ronghua, after being patient for many years, he couldn''t wait any longer, itching to take the other party down. Yuan Kaizhi understood Yuan King''s patient and disgusted gaze as he had simrly experienced it, and he never talked about it with anyone! Because no matter whether it was the Yuan King''s intent to kill the Duke of National Defense, or his murderous intentions towards Ronghua, they were secrets that nobody else should know about! So, how did Jing Country find out about this secret that he himself never spoke of? Yuan Kaizhi felt like he was losing his sanity. "Have you been following me all along? "Do you practice dark magic?" Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, displeased, "It''s not dark magic, it''s divine magic." But he didn''t want to argue with Yuan Kaizhi and told him, "Yuan Kaizhi, give up everything you know." Xiao Yunzhou gestured to the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, "You record what he says, and present it to meter for review." "Yuan Kaizhi, if what you say doesn''t match up with what we know¡ª" "For each discrepancy, I''ll chop off one of your fingers." Yuan Kaizhi shivered in terror. * In less than half a day, sitting in the rest room while reading Jing Country''s best-selling booklet, the lotus handkerchief-twisted Princess Ronghua, can¡¯t help thinking about the end of Yuan Kaizhi, when she saw Xiao Yunzhou and the second king approaching. Sensing something, Princess Ronghua finally revealed a trace of sadness in her eyes, but it was soon reced by resolution. She stood up and bowed most respectfully to the third king, especially to Xiao Yunzhou, "I''m so grateful to the country of Jing for saving me." "Helping me see the wolf''s ambition, avenging the deceit of ten years." "If, in the future, there''s anything Jing Country needs from me, I''ll do my utmost to help." Upon hearing this, King Zhou Ling and King of Chu, standing behind Xiao Yunzhou, twitched their lips. Princess Ronghua was not a subject of Jing Country, and her own uncle, the King of Zhou, was present there. Yet, she knew very clearly who it was that had saved her! "Uncle Emperor," Princess Ronghua cast a blushing nce at King Zhou Ling, "Not only did Jing Country save my life, it also saved my heart." She spread the book ¡°Back Five Years Later¡± in her hand. "Had it not been for Concubine Liu taking me to see ys and read books, I might have been still weeping day and night, feeling that my life was ruined." "But now, Jing Country has shown me," Ronghua took a breath, "my journey is just beginning." "It''s not that I was abandoned." "It''s that I abandoned Yuan Kaizhi!" Princess Ronghuamended that Jing Country could produce such female-empowered stories insisting ¡®there are no abandoned wives in the world, only those who abandon themselves'', and spread these books across the nation, portraying the evil men beneath their feet, speaks volumes about the enlightened environment in Jing Country! Even more than her environment in the Zhou Xing Kingdom, she now finds muchfort here. "Uncle Emperor, I''m sorry, but I wish to remain in Jing Country for the time being." "Until I can figure out what I can do, I''d like to buy a small vi in Jing Country and live there." The King of Zhou was speechless. His very own beloved niece, whom he has treasured like his own daughter since childhood, stays one night in the Jing''s royal pce and suddenly wants to switch sides? Is she moving to Jing Country!? Damn Yuan Kaizhi! Damn him! King Zhou Ling deeply regretted not kicking Yuan Kaizhi, who had fainted from having three fingers cut off earlier. "Ha ha," King of Chu couldn''t helpughing, "I finally understand today. The wise man did not deceive me. Those who value daughters over sons will avoid disaster and enjoy good fortune." King Zhou Ling: "???" What does that mean? Yet Xiao Yunzhou gave Princess Ronghua an offhand smile, as if all of this was very normal, "Wee. Jing Country has policies to facilitate foreigners buying houses." King of Zhou, King of Chu: "...This Xiao Yunzhou... poaching right before our eyes... He''s getting more and more hateful!" ¡°Princess Ronghua unexpectedly appears in the Elite Album." Xiao Chuchu noticed the elite album system floating before her eyes, and a new line of text was added: "Princess Ronghua: Good with cooking (originally a cook for her husband) and fragrance making." "Princess Ronghua: Treated well by King Zhou Ling, she was the center character among the nobledies of Zhou Xing Kingdom before her marriage. Now, she still has certain influence in the high society of Zhou Xing Kingdom." Xiao Yunzhou heard his daughter''s wishes, and he was torn betweenughter and tears. Our youngdy is going to build up an army of women, isn''t she? Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat and pulled out a document from the pile in his hand, giving it to Princess Ronghua. "Princess Ronghua, this is one of the confessions of Yuan Kaizhi. I think you might be the one to really understand itpared to your Imperial Uncle." King Zhou Ling was puzzled. Princess Ronghua curiously received the paper. She quickly nced at it and herplexion changed drastically. The paper contained rming statements¡ª ''Each empress was a virgin, Yuan King was impotent'', ''Yuan King intends to kill the Duke of National Defense.'' Although she had seen Yuan Kaizhi in an appalling condition in prison, Princess Ronghua was not as shocked and angry then as she was now after reading this paper, both hands trembling in rage and fear. "How can this be!" "What should we do!" She was shocked and enraged by the knowledge of Yuan King''s impotence, feeling a sense of joy for her friend, the new Queen Yuan, as their secret crush on Duke of National Defense might actually be reality. But the news that the Yuan King intends to kill the Duke of National Defense... Xiao Chuchu lightly coughed, "Princess Ronghua is very furious and feels her pairing mighte to an end, damn it, she can''t just sit still as a ''shipper''." "Wait... In Princess Ronghua''s subconscious, she''s specting that the Yuan King might act in 3 days? Possibly sending the first scouts to Jing Country? Or perhaps nning an assassination attempt on the Duke of National Defense in 3 days?" "Because she once heard the new Queen Yuan say, the Yuan King had people do fortune telling for that day''s luck!" "And behold, the power of gossip!" Xiao Yunzhou was momentarily taken aback. Chapter 221 A dayter, King Zhou Ling set off on his journey back to Zhou Xing. Xiao Yunzhou, apanied by his esteemed queen and treasured Princess, came to bid him farewell. This was a courtesy among allies. As the Emperor, Xiao Yunzhou would only apany him to the gates of Jing Country''s capital before returning. But this time, Xiao Yunzhou and his party showed no signs of saying goodbye even outside the capital. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, King Zhou Ling turned to Xiao Yunzhou, "Your sincerity, Xiao Brother, will be remembered by Zhou Xing. You should go back quickly." Xiao Yunzhou waved him off, his face blushing. Oh, he wasn''t seeing off King Zhou Ling! Informed by the ''Gossip Eye'' of Princess, he learned that Yuan King will take action ''in three days'', probably sending scouts or agents to strategic military locations in Jing Country. He''s already sent out an urgent edict to the city defence generals to be on guard for ''agents'', dispatched with haste to all troops a couple of days ago. But Xiao Yunzhou still felt somewhat uneasy, preparing to leave the capital to inspect these critical ces. Sending King Zhou Ling a hundred miles? Not a chance! He was just on his way to the inspection! Xiao Yunzhou thought, looking up to see King Zhou Ling''s moved expression. He felt somewhat embarrassed and quickly added, "Ahem, given the bond between our countries, what''s wrong with bidding you farewell for a hundred miles?" King Zhou Ling was taken aback, even the wandering King of Chu who followed out of sheer boredom was stunned. When did they, Jing Country and Zhou Xing, share such a bond? They never sat down and discussed any future coborations between the two countries! King Zhou Ling coughed lightly, the corners of his mouth twitching. Currently, he indeed improved his impressions on Jing Country and abhorred Yuan State. Anxious to return, he decided to refuse Yuan''s right of passage through hisnds. Should Yuan State attack Jing Country, King Zhou Ling has no intention to get involved! Nevertheless, seeing Princess Ronghua standing with Concubine Liu behind Xiao Yunzhou, he noticed the Princess''s teary eyes, reluctant to leave her royal uncle. "Just let Ronghua send me off," King Zhou Ling didn''t want to leave his dear niece in a foreign country, unfamiliar and strange. However, Ronghua was insistent, her eyes dark with rings today, rumored to have been entranced by a book titled "The First Immortal Lord." As an uncle, he could only relent to see his distressed niece happy in Jing Country. Thinking of this, King Zhou Ling beckoned Ronghua, "Ronghua, you may stay in Jing Country for a while, but promise your royal uncle to return before June. You remember your father''s birthday, don''t you?" He gave Princess Ronghua an elder''s stern gaze, "Celebrating your father''s birthday is important. You cannot be selfish. You must return to Zhou Xing." Should Yuan State not pass through Zhou Xing, they will have to traverse the mountains between Sheng Country and themselves to get to Jing Country''s borders. Going by the troop''s marching speed, they would reach Jing Country after June. Ronghua should be safe if she returns to Zhou Xing in June. "I understand, royal uncle, don''t worry," Ronghua naturally agreed. King Zhou Ling nodded and nced at Xiao Yunzhou. He truly felt Jing Country was extraordinary and respected Xiao Yunzhou, the Emperor of Jing Country. However, if there was a war between Yuan State and Jing Country, Zhou Xing didn''t want to interfere. Otherwise, what about themon people of Zhou Xing? Even though King Zhou Ling was genuinely grateful to Xiao Yunzhou for saving his niece these days and he equally harbored true resentment towards the Yuan King, he could not use the lives of Zhou Xing''s people and soldiers to repay a favor or to settle a personal vengeance. A king''s every step is connected to countless lives! "Xiao Yunzhou, you must be careful of Yuan State." King Zhou Ling sighed and addressed Xiao Yunzhou. "The Yuan King is restless, and he would probably take action soon even without our help from Zhou Xing. You must increase your border patrols." "What I said the other day was not false. From now on, as long as I live, Zhou Xing and Yuan State will have no alliance, will not give Yuan even the slightest help. All our food and weapons will be sold at high prices, and we will demandpensation from the Yuan King for Yuan Kaizhi''s offenses, but only to this extent." "I won''t send troops to attack Yuan State, nor will I help them attack you." "If our Zhou spies get word of Yuan''s troops'' movements, I will send you a message. Also, the gunpowder produced by Zhou Xing can be sold to Jing Country at a tenth of the price." King Zhou Ling narrows his eyes, this is the best he can do for Jing Country. "[This must be King Zhou Ling''s greatest sincerity, right? The current collection rate for the hero King Zhou Ling is 71%.]" Xiao Chuchu took a look at the system data, "[His character profile suggests that he is rational and cautious, and he doesn''t engage in battles he isn''t sure of.]" "[I wonder, if the collection rate reaches 100%, would he send troops to help us.]" "[I think it''s unlikely. He is a King who loves his people and doesn''t want to easily engage in war.]" Xiao Chuchu''s words resonated deeply with Xiao Yunzhou. Xiao Yunzhou initially didn''t n on opening his heart to King Zhou Ling, and even the whole journey of apanying him was filled with dishonest talk. But at this moment, his daughter''s heavenly information made Xiao Yunzhou look at King Zhou Ling with a sort of respect. "King Zhou, I am the same as you." Xiao Yunzhou looked at King Zhou, "I don''t want to go to war, to see devastation and the people suffer." Xiao Yunzhou deeply understands King Zhou Ling, "Today, if our situations were reversed - if Zhou Xing is being attacked by Yuan, Jing Country wouldn''t send troops either to offer help." "If you were to die, and Zhou Xing was to be vanquished, Jing Country would only stand by." "......!" The corners of King Zhou Ling''s mouth twitched. Howe this fact stated bluntly sounded so unpleasant? "Hmph." King Zhou Ling turned his head away. Xiao Yunzhou couldn''t help butugh, "Howe? You are allowed to stand by but when it is my turn, it''s not ok?" King Zhou Ling was stunned. "[Eh? The collection rate for King Zhou Ling has risen to 75%?" Xiao Chuchu blinked, even Xiao Yunzhou was startled by his daughter''s good news. Xiao Yunzhou couldn¡¯t help but nce towards King Zhou Ling, almost blurting out the main male character''s dialogue from "The First Immortal Monarch" - Don''t love me, there is no oue. Who would have thought, a casual remark of his would make King Zhou Ling appreciate Jing Country once again? This waspletely absurd! Xiao Yunzhou may have beenining, but the corners of his mouth couldn¡¯t help but rise, feeling a sense of regretful admiration for King Zhou Ling. These two kings, although they were distant during normal times, when it came to considering issues, there was some tacit understanding! But after King Zhou Ling let out a cold snort, he looked deep in thought, "Brother Xiao, are you...trying to provoke me?" The King of Chu nodded, "Xiao Yunzhou, you''re challenging us, aren''t you?" Xiao Yunzhou: "???" Uh, where? King of Chu squinted, "When the lips are gone, the teeth will be cold. If Yuan eradicates Jing, Zhou Xing, who is in the middle, will he be safe?" "Will we, Chu state, remain unscathed?" "Xiao Yunzhou, are you mocking King Zhou and I?" The cunning King of Chu, full of thoughts, his face was filled with an expression of ''seeing through the meaning beyond Xiao Yunzhou''s words''. "If we don''t help Jing today, it might be our turn - Zhou Xing and Chu - to be attacked by Yuan tomorrow. And once a country is gone, there is one less country''s military strength to resist Yuan. In the end, none of us three countries will benefit." "Do you mean this?" Indeed, after hearing these words from King of Chu, King Zhou Ling also wore a conflicted expression. ¡¾King Zhou Ling''s collection rate rose to 77%.¡¿ Even Xiao Chuchu was surprised, ¡¾I didn''t expect that my father is the smartest of the three.¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou: "¡­!" He was blushing. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, straightened up, "Indeed, King of Chu, King Zhou, this is what I mean, the lips and teeth depend on each other.." "When one falls into trouble, we stand by and watch. When we ourselves are in a bind, we cry to heaven and the earth, but to no avail. Looking around, there are already no military forces to resist Yuan!" "But now, Chu has a lot of iron mines, Zhou produces gunpowder, and my kingdom of Jing can manufacture advanced firearms." "Furthermore, the country of Wu Yun has a lot of cavalry." "If our four sides unite, anyone, anywhere who wants to encroach upon our four nations, it would be a pipe dream!" ¡¾King Zhou Ling''s collection rate rose to 78%!¡¿ Xiao Yunzhou''s acting skills had be quite sophisticated. With all these words, he was able to make King Zhou Ling and King of Chu thoughtful. On top of that, Xiao Yunzhou chatted while on the move, and also took King Zhou Ling to a hundred miles outside the city... two hundred miles... King Zhou Ling really was moved, and a bit ashamed, "I will seriously consider your proposal about a four-nation alliance, Brother Xiao. Really, Xiao, there''s no need to escort me any further, really, you should go back." Xiao Yunzhou cleared his throat lightly, looking at the nearly within reach Luo Mountain City, a major defense point. He and the military department had discussed overnight that Yuan was most likely to let spies infiltrate the border of Jing, and they must enter Luo Mountain City. As Xiao Yunzhou was about to bow his head to King Zhou Ling, he saw a simple clothed man riding a horseing from a distance. He quickly dismounted in front of them. "Master," the clothed man knelt down in front of Xiao Yunzhou, "as you expected, this morning two suspicious individuals entered Luo Mountain City, likely spies from the Yuan State." Xiao Yunzhou''s face was full of ''I knew it'', but King of Chu and King Zhou appeared shocked. The clothed man offered a gaze of admiration to Xiao Yunzhou, "Master, as per your instructions, we pretended to have a loose guard since yesterday, and our soldiers appear old, weak, sick, andcking in supplies for many days." King Zhou and King of Chu: "!¡± Chapter 222 King of Zhou and King of Chu were both shocked. Yuan Army''s spies had already reached Jing Country? And Xiao Yunzhou had predicted it? No, it wasn''t Xiao Yunzhou, it must be a master from Jing Country! Soon, King of Zhou and King of Chu saw that the soldiers appearing inside and outside the city gates were all old, weak, sick, and disabled, looking dispirited, with many missing arms and legs. The two kings were dumbfounded. This Xiao Yunzhou was truly cunning, knowing that the Yuan Army had sent spies, he deliberately put on a show for the Yuan King! King Zhou Ling was sweating profusely, thankful that he had stopped in time and hadn''t opposed Jing Country. Xiao Yunzhou was indeed a deep and scheming old fox! [Oh, without my imperial father, this year''s Oscar for Best Actor is not worth watching.] [Well, well, this is a strategy to make the Yuan Army lower their guard. I''ve certainly grown smarter~] Xiao Chuchu''s praise came swiftly. Xiao Yunzhou looked pleased, finally turning to King Zhou Ling beside him, "Brother Zhou, could I ask you to dy spreading the news about Princess Ronghua and Yuan Kai''s capture?" King Zhou Ling was startled, "Alright." If they wanted the Yuan King to lower his guard, naturally they couldn''t let them know what had happened in Jing Country. "Then, Brother Zhou, I''ll bid you farewell here," Xiao Yunzhou parted ways with King Zhou Ling. Three dayster, when the Yuan King received news that King Zhou Ling had refused to let Yuan pass through, he was furious. He immediately mobilized his troops, entering Jing from the side of Sheng Country. Even though the Duke of National Defense opposed it, the Yuan King still insisted, "Spies have reported that Jing Country''s military strength is sparse, their defenses arex, their soldiers old and their horses weak. If not destroyed by Yuan, they will fall to another country''s hands." "I am merely following heaven''s will!" Early the next day, 100,000 Yuan troops set out. On the third day, King Zhou Ling received news from his spies that 100,000 Yuan troops were marching swiftly towards Jing Country from the right side of Sheng Country. King Zhou Ling hurriedly sent a message to Jing Country, regretting not bringing Princess Ronghua back to his country. After some thought, he immediately ordered the Crown Prince of Zhou to lead 10,000 troops to aid Jing Country from the rear. On the same day, Princess Yunwu, who had received a secret letter from the King of Chu, used the Tiger Token to dispatch 20,000 Chu troops to assist Jing Country. Sanda, the Khan of Wu Yun Country, sent 5,000 cavalry to help. At dusk on the sixth day, the Yuan Army reached the border of Jing Country. The Crown Prince of Zhou, King of Chu, and Xiao Yunzhou stood together on the city wall to observe. ording to the message, 100,000 Yuan troops were at the border, but now the Crown Prince of Zhou and King of Chu saw Xiao Yunzhou as calm as Mount Tai, his faceposed. They both began to truly admire Xiao Yunzhou. However, only Xiao Yunzhou himself knew that he wasn''t calm, but listening to the fairy''s thoughts! [Oh, is it going to break out into war so quickly? Is this for real? I thought my butterfly effect would bring changes, but instead, it seems to have brought forward the crisis that would have hit Jing Country three yearster.] [Even now, it doesn''t feel real to me.] Xiao Chuchu, carried on Xiao Yunzhou''s back, only herrge grape-like eyes visible, looked somewhat panicked. [Am I going to be a princess of a fallen country!?] [Could it be that I didn''t die from that cold before, only to die here?] [Heavens, I thought I could grow up, and when I could speak, teach the kitchen''s Chief Liao how to make hamburgers and fries, eat spicy snail noodles...] [I could even teach the Hanlin Academy what real manga is... but now, is this baby''s life in danger?] [Wait, we now have repeating firearms, improved cannons, and first-ss war horses from Wu Yun Country, cavalry...] [Let me calcte, our currenttest battle strength difference¡ª] Xiao Chuchu didn''t want to see soldiers die, nor did she want to die herself! Xiao Yunzhou listened to his daughter''s thoughts with increasing heartache and urgency. He also wanted to know the current military strength difference between Yuan and Jing. But Xiao Chuchu was suddenly interrupted. "Report¡ª" "The Divine Machine Camp''s repeating firearm cavalry unit, dispatched 1,000 men, killed 13,000 enemies outside Yushan Pass, the remaining Yuan Army fled in defeat." "The repeating firearm cavalry unit, one man wounded!" [Huh?] [Holy crap! The Yuan Army... ran away?] [Is it over?] Xiao Chuchu was stunned. Equally stunned were the Crown Prince of Zhou and King of Chu. It was too fast, far too fast! Their reinforcements hadn''t even joined the battle! The Yuan Army was already gone? "Killed 13,000 enemies, over 80,000 fled in defeat, excellent, excellent!" Xiao Yunzhou was overjoyed, "The Divine Machine Camp shall submit a memorial for rewards, I will grant great rewards!" The Crown Prince of Zhou and King of Chu were jolted back to reality by Xiao Yunzhou''s voice. After a moment''s thought, they understood. Jing Country had known in advance when the Yuan Army would arrive and their marching route through necessary terrain. The Jing troops were in a state of prepared defense. Meanwhile, the Yuan Army had been marching continuously for six or seven days and was already exhausted. Add to that the fact that the Jing troops had previously feigned being old, weak, sick, and disabled, causing the Yuan Army to greatly lower their guard. They never imagined that before they could even set up camp to rest, they would be caught off guard by the Jing troops! [Wow, the Crown Prince of Zhou''s admiration for Jing Country instantly reached 100%.] [Crown Prince of Zhou automatically added to the elite handbook.] [The system says Ipleted 100% progress in one go, and will reward me with another skill.] Xiao Yunzhou: "...!" Pleasant surprises alwayse so quickly! [Oh, the skill ''Celestial Dream Entry''?] As soon as Xiao Yunzhou heard the name of this celestial method, he almost got goosebumps. His little princess was truly a fairy! He had only ever read about the legend of celestial beings entering dreams in misceneous records. Now it had actuallye true! Xiao Yunzhou turned his head to look at his daughter''s rosy little face, as if he were looking at a celestial being. He didn''t even dare to blink. [''Celestial Dream Entry'' allows me to transform into a celestial being and provide guidance through dreams to individuals up to a thousand miles away.] [The less guarded the person is against me, and the more they believe in gods and ghosts, the higher the probability that they will be influenced by my dream entry.] Xiao Chuchu blinked, as if she had received a new toy. Her system, while sometimes mischievous, was still very useful at critical moments. She immediately prepared to try it out. [Let''s see whose dream I can enter now~] [Oh, I see King Zhou Ling''s queen, sleeping so early?] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened. Xiao Chuchu scrolled down a bit more, [Hmm, a bit further, there''s a pale golden figure, the Duke of National Defense!] [Even further, there''s a purple figure, oh, Queen Yuan?] [Holy cow, I see the Yuan King!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes bulged. Impressive! His little princess couldn''t even ride a horse yet, couldn''t reach Yuan State, but she could already ''converse'' with these people. [Oh my, I need to think about who to talk to.] [It''s so troublesome, who to choose, it''s really going to kill me with this decision paralysis.] Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. Even celestial beings have many troubles. If only he could have the painful dilemma of choosing whose dream to enter. Finally, as the night grew darker, Xiao Chuchu finished her deliberation and directly pointed her soft, chubby little finger at the name ''Yuan King''! Chapter 223 Xiao Yunzhou always knew his little princess was brave, but he didn''t realize she was this daring¡ªshe was about to enter the Yuan King''s dream directly! He had to restrain himself from stopping his daughter out loud. He was a bit worried; the Yuan King wasn''t a good person and might bully his daughter in the dream. But as Xiao Yunzhou absent-mindedly watched the Jing Country soldiers return and prepare for a victory celebration, he soon heard Xiao Chuchu''s inner thoughts. [I can even choose the dream atmosphere and horror level, hahaha.] Xiao Chuchu was getting into it. [I''m going to give the Yuan King a "Ring" experience!] Xiao Yunzhou blinked. The Ring? Just the name almost made him shudder. [Yuan King, aren''t you impotent?] [You start a war because of one woman, for your own selfish interests, disregarding the lives of your people.] [I''ll show you impotence! You''ll never be able to perform again!] [After "The Ring" experience, let''s see if you can still get it up, Yuan King.] [Will you still be obsessed with Imperial Noble Fu Cha?] [Haha.] Xiao Chuchu was cackling gleefully in her mind. For some reason, her mischievous voice made Xiao Yunzhou''s scalp tingle. Xiao Yunzhou was truly grateful that this "celestial dream entry" could only be used on someone thousands of miles away! He had dodged a bullet. Xiao Yunzhou let out a big sigh of relief. * As night fell, the sky turned pitch ck, with only a new moon hanging high, casting a hazy glow. The Yuan King was waiting for military reports from the Jing Country side, but after nightfall, having had some wine and two consecutive days of meetings, he was starting to feel drowsy. After finishing hisst sip of wine, he slouched onto his couch. He wondered vaguely if those ipetent Jing Country soldiers had been utterly defeated by his Yuan Army. The Yuan King''s indistinct thoughts began to blur. Gradually, his consciousness became fuzzy, drifting to the small farmhouse courtyard where he had once caught a glimpse of the Jing Country''s Imperial Noble Consort. The Jing Country''s Imperial Noble Consort was more stunning than any woman he had ever seen, her beauty hitting all the right notes for him. Her nce back at him had made his bones feel weak and hot. The Yuan King was dreaming of herbing her hair in the small courtyard, her hair as smooth as the finest silk, flowing through the teeth of a pear woodb. In the dream, the Yuan King wanted to pin her down! To see if he could perform with this woman! He couldn''t wait to conquer Jing Country! He wanted to possess this Imperial Noble Fu Cha of Jing Country! He had tried with all the great beauties of Yuan Country, but he couldn''t perform. Only this woman, whom he had only seen a few times but who haunted his dreams, might be able to awaken his manhood? He couldn''t wait any longer. Yuan Mu Country needed a true royal blood heir, not a ''fake'' one! If this dragged on, and the fourth empress found out the truth about his ''impotence'', he would have to kill her to silence her. But she was already the fourth empress... if this continued, the people mightbel him with the inauspicious fate of being a wife-killer! The Yuan King took a deep breath and slowly approached the Jing Country''s Imperial Consort, who had her back to him as she groomed herself. "Beautifuldy, wait for me." "In a few days, you will be my woman." The Yuan King felt certain it wasn''t that he was impotent, but that those Yuan women were inadequate! They were useless, unable to interest him, so they all deserved to die! "Once Jing Country falls and Xiao Yunzhou is dead, I wille to take you away." The Yuan King''s hand tenderly rested on the woman''s slightly exposed fragrant shoulder. Gently turning her body towards him, he wanted to gaze once more at that breathtakingly beautiful face that had captured his heart. His fingers caressed the soft hair on her shoulder, bringing it to his nose to inhale its fragrance. "My beauty, let me look at you." The Yuan King knew he was in a dream and didn''t have his ''manly'' abilities, but it didn''t matter. He felt that once he saw her in person, he would be able to perform! The Yuan King turned the delicate beauty towards him, full of anticipation¡ª But what he saw was a head of ck hair turning around¡ªand a facepletely covered in ck hair! "Ah!" The Yuan King stumbled in his dream, flinging away the fingers that had been caressing her hair as if they''d been burned! But he couldn''t back away. The woman''s head waspletely covered in long hair, with no face at all! She lunged at him¡ª "Yuan King, I... await you." A terrifying, dripping wet voice emerged from the faceless mass of hair. "Ahhh¡ª!" The Yuan King suddenly sat up on his long couch, jolting awake in terror, his eyes wide open. Looking up, he saw the same bronze mirror from his dream right there in his bedchamber! The chamber was brightly lit with candles, yet the Yuan King felt an intense chill run through him. "Someone,e here! Throw this mirror out!" ... [Hahaha! So funny, the system says the Yuan King''s mental state has dropped to 85%.] Xiao Chuchu, being held by Wei Zheng behind a screen in the Jing Country''s victory celebration tent, was thoroughly amused. [That was so much fun, but the Yuan King is such a weakling.] [He woke up after just a little scare. What a chicken. I hadn''t even gotten to the main "Ring" event yet.] [Damn, when will he fall asleep again? I still want to make Imperial Noble Fu Cha crawl out of the bronze mirror to scare him...] Xiao Yunzhou, sitting in the main seat of the victory celebration tent, was just raising his wine cup when he heard his daughter''s thoughts from behind the screen. His hand trembled, nearly spilling the wine. What? Crawling out of the bronze mirror? Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched, and goosebumps rose on the back of his neck. Just imagining that scene made Xiao Yunzhou''s whole body tingle! As expected of a celestial being, even her dream invasions were so terrifying. How could any mortal withstand this? [Oh, the system says I spent fifty points to enter the Yuan King''s dream once. So from now on, I can see when the Yuan King will fall asleep next.] [Well, well, he''ll sleep again in about an hour.] [Wahahaha, I can preset his next dream now.] [Here Ie, Yuan King~] [I''ll make you regret starting this war and disregarding human life! I''ll make you regret it so much that you''ll never dare to look at another woman again, never dare to start a war on a whim!] [Hahaha.] [Alright, let''s set the lighting for the next dream to horror movie lighting, and add the sound of fingernails crawling on the ground.] [And let''s add a full-length bronze mirror...] [Hehehe, the female ghost in white, crawling out of the mirror, we''ll set her speed from slow to fast~] Xiao Yunzhou shuddered, unable to drink the wine in his hand. But he also vaguely looked forward to seeing if the Yuan King would be scared so badly he''d wet himself. Serve him right! * The Yuan King had a nightmare and didn''t dare to sleep again. But an hourter, he gradually couldn''t resist his fatigue. He ordered people to stand guard outside the hall and keep the lights on, then entered his bed curtains. Soon, his eyelids began to droop, and he found himself back in that farmhouse courtyard from his dream. The beauty who had haunted his dreams countless nights before was someone the Yuan King now somewhat wanted to avoid. He didn''t want to see the beauty turn into a ghost again. But as soon as the Yuan King entered the dream, he dejectedly discovered that he was once again in the farmhouse courtyard, making his heart skip a beat. However, he soon let out a sigh of relief in the dream. Because this time, there was no one in the room. There was no womanbing her hair in front of the dressing mirror, so there would be no more nightmares. The Yuan King immediately rxed in the dream and sat down in front of the mirror. But soon, he noticed something strange. This dressing mirror was muchrger than the one he had dreamed of before. Before long, night fell in the room, leaving only a very dim oilmp that cast an eerie, pale light on the tall bronze mirror. The Yuan King in the dream couldn''t help but frown. But as he stood up and turned to leave, he heard a strange creaking sounding from the bronze mirror behind him, only half an arm''s length away. Listening carefully, it sounded like someone walking on wooden boards, but not like footsteps. "!" In the dream, the Yuan King''s entire back went cold! He had seen clearly just now that there was only a wall and a bronze mirror behind him! Where was this sounding from?? As the Yuan King pondered this, he slightly turned his head and saw a sight that seemed to grip his throat, rendering him unable to make a sound! In the wide mirror surface, a woman in white was crawling out! She was crawling out of the mirror surface on all fours, moving quickly towards him, only half an arm''s length away! "Ah!!" The Yuan King rolled his eyes and fainted in the dream! [Oh no, the Yuan King is useless.] [His mental value has already dropped to 64?] Xiao Chuchu clicked her tongue in disbelief. [I''ve barely yed five minutes of this horror movie, and I haven''t even gotten to the key line ''Evildoers will be haunted by a hundred ghosts.'' Damn it, Yuan King, wake up!] Xiao Yunzhou in the Jing Country''s royal tent: "...!" Chapter 224 The Yuan King felt he was going mad. For two consecutive days, whenever he fell asleep, he would see the once breathtakingly beautiful woman from Jing Country crawling out of a bronze mirror! In his bedchamber, no bronze mirrors were allowed anywhere, and no one was permitted to have loose, unkempt hair! The Yuan King now feared falling asleep. "Summon the royal physician! Have hime examine me!" The Yuan King couldn''t bear this torment any longer, believing it must be caused by his recentte-night exertions. But even on the second day, after drinking the calming tonic prescribed by the royal physician, it was to no avail. The terrifying coldness in his dreams grew worse with each urrence. Moreover, the woman crawling out of the mirror got closer to him each time. It seemed that after a few more dreams, she would be able to touch him! In just two short days, the Yuan King''s eyes became puffy and bloodshot, with dark circles forming around them. His exhaustion made his temper even more vtile. "Any news from Jing Country yet? It''s been two days, and still no word?" The Yuan King kicked over his desk, his mood foul and his heart filled with unease. In his two most recent dreams, the terrifying woman with the indistinct face hadpletely emerged from the mirror and begun to speak. ''Evildoers shall be haunted by a hundred ghosts...'' ''Those who bring chaos to the world will face divine retribution...'' In his dream, the Yuan King was scared witless. When he woke up this morning, he not only dared not see the Empress, but he couldn''t even bear to look at the pce maids around him! Any woman now reminded him of his nightmares. Why had he been having this terrifying dream repeatedly for the past two days, and why did it get longer each time? Each urrence was like a chapter in a story, continuing where thest one left off. The Yuan King was terrified but unable to confide in anyone. "It must be someone from Jing Country using sorcery against me!" "Since ancient times, the righteous have defeated the wicked, and the capable have reced the ipetent! Heaven''s mandate is with me. My destruction of Jing Country is in ordance with Heaven''s will, not an evil act at all! I shall achieve a great victory!" The Yuan King shouted angrily in his hall, "I fear no ghosts! I have the fortune of the state on my side!" The officials and attendants outside the hall exchanged worried nces, feeling uneasy. The Yuan King was bing increasingly unstable, shouting every day. They didn''t know what had possessed him, but they dared not ask or discuss it. By the third day, the Yuan King had even ced a peach wood sword and talismans under his pillow, and ordered two eunuchs to watch him sleep in the hall. If they saw him looking distressed, they were to wake him immediately. But soon, he fell into another dream... [The Yuan King''s mental state has already dropped to 53.] [What will happen when it reaches zero?] Xiao Chuchu wondered as she stayed in the royal tent. She hadn''t yet returned to the capital of Jing Country with Xiao Yunzhou, still remaining at the border to guard against a potential Yuan army attack. Every day, as she watched the Jing soldiers working hard to defend theirnd, her resentment towards the Yuan King grew stronger. [Sigh, I hope his mental state doesn''t drop any further. I''m worried the Yuan King might fall apart too quickly before experiencing my full dream gift package.] [Hmm, today I''ll add some horrifying sound effects and eerie lighting.] [And throw in a video package of the Yuan army''s crushing defeat, plus the sensation of sleep paralysis...] Xiao Chuchu spent her points to redeem a series of nightmare effects, preparing to teach this tyrant, who casually started wars, a harsh lesson! Anyone who incited conflict and caused loss of life deserved punishment. With that thought, Xiao Chuchupiled the nightmare with one click and sent it off to the Yuan King. Xiao Yunzhou had been somewhat afraid to hold his daughter for the past couple of days. These nightmares were terrifying even just to hear about. Before holding his daughter, Xiao Yunzhou would silently chant ''Amitabha Buddha'', believing that his righteous heart and umted good deeds would keep evil spirits at bay, only then daring to approach Chuchu. Liu Chaniang silently mocked Xiao Yunzhou''s behavior in her heart. She wasn''t afraid at all. Only those with guilty consciences feared ghosts; the righteous had nothing to fear. "Chuchu is such a good girl, let mother hold you." Liu Chaniang was even a bit curious, almost wishing she could enter the Yuan King''s dream to see how frightened he had be. Just thinking about it made her feel vindicated. To her surprise, just as her curiosity peaked, she heard her daughter''s live broadcast. [Haha, the Yuan King is asleep, let me take a look.] [How funny, he even had two eunuchs watching over him, ready to wake him up at any moment, but he''s still dreaming. This is a system gift package, you know? I spent points on it, did he think he could wake up whenever he wanted?] [Hehe, now as soon as the Yuan King enters that rural courtyard and sees a woman''s silhouette and a bronze mirror, he starts putting on his pained expression.] [The Yuan King is really losing it.] Liu Chaniang immediately perked up her ears with interest, while Xiao Yunzhou silently walked over with his hands behind his back. Meanwhile, on his bed in the pce, the Yuan King''s brow was already furrowed in pain. The two eunuchs standing guard exchanged a nce, hesitating whether to wake the Yuan King now, but he had already been ''ensnared'' in his dream! This time, the Yuan King saw his troops, sent to attack Jing Country, appear in the bronze mirror inside the room. General Li Hao of the right nk was leading the way at the front of the army, having already reached the border of Jing Country. The Yuan King was overjoyed. Sure enough, his determination had moved the heavens, dispelling the eerie woman from the mirror and instead allowing him to dream of an auspicious sign for his Yuan army. But the Yuan King had barely rxed when he suddenly heard the sound of approaching hoofbeats. Then came the rapid popping of firearms, like firecrackers, rising and falling like rolling thunder. The Yuan King was startled, then watched as General Li Hao of the right nk, at the forefront of the Yuan army, was the first to fall! Then dozens, hundreds of Yuan soldiers, their chests blossoming with blood. "Retreat quickly! It''s an ambush!" The Yuan King shouted urgently,pletely forgetting this was a dream. If they could retreat quickly, put some distance between them and regroup, the Yuan army''s numbers would be enough to deal with this small cavalry unit. Judging by the sound of hoofbeats and footsteps, the Yuan King was certain that the Jing forces firing the guns numbered less than a thousand! What was there to fear? Yuan had a hundred thousand men. A hand cannon could only fire five or six shots, ten at most! Once the Yuan forces scattered, Jing Country wouldn''t be able to hit many of them! But just as the Yuan King thought this, he realized that the gunfire, which had filled the sky, wasing in wave after wave, endless, truly like firecrackers, with no pause in the roar! How many shots had been fired? The Yuan King stared in disbelief, his face quickly turning pale. The endless gunfire seemed to number in the thousands or tens of thousands,pletely different from what he had imagined ¨C that they would fire for a while and then stop. Was Jing Country really this strong? No, impossible, this was a dream! Yes, a dream! Dreams were always the opposite of reality. The Yuan King suddenly remembered this and rxed. He just needed to wake up and everything would be fine. Just wake up... But the Yuan King''s face froze as he realized that although his mind was clear, he couldn''t open his eyes or wake up! He tried to move his body, but it felt as if a great mountain was pressing down on him, so heavy he couldn''t even move a finger. The Yuan King took a deep breath and looked down in confusion. In an instant, he saw the blood-soaked Yuan soldiers who had fallen under the hail of gunfire from Jing Country earlier, now crawling onto his body...! "Ah!" The Yuan King screamed, his eyes rolling back as he jolted awake from his nightmare! The two eunuchs standing guard by the bed were so frightened they fell to their knees, "Your Majesty, we just couldn''t wake you up no matter how hard we tried! We shouted with all our might!" The Yuan King, drenched in sweat and breathing heavily, quickly looked down at his body. Seeing only a thin nket embroidered with golden dragons and nothing else, the Yuan King finally let out a huge sigh of relief. It was alright, just a dream. Only a dream. Now there was nothing, everything was clean and normal. The Yuan soldiers crawling on his body just now were all part of the dream... But just as the Yuan King was halfway through calming himself, a soldier in golden armor came rushing down the corridor outside! "Report¡ª!" "Your Majesty, urgent news from eight hundred li away!" "The firearms of the Jing army are formidable. Our forces have suffered thirty thousand casualties at Luo Mountain City, and General Li Hao of the right nk has fallen in battle! The main army is retreating!" W-what? Wasn''t that just a dream? In an instant, the Yuan King felt as if he had been doused with ice water, the image of those blood-soaked bodies crawling on top of him shing before his eyes. His hands and feet went numb, and he tumbled out of bed! Chapter 225 It''s true! The Yuan army''s crushing defeat in the dream, and the Jing Country army''s overwhelming firearms were real! The Yuan King fell from his bed, his whole body cold. "Your Majesty, what''s wrong!" "Don''t- don''te near¡ª! Don''t touch me¡ª!" Every time the Yuan King closed his eyes or was touched, he seemed to return to the scene in his dream where Yuan soldiers crawled over him, making his whole body tremble! "Order them to retreat!" "Everyone,e back!" No more fighting. Both the Jing Country''s firearms and the Imperial Noble Fu Cha from his dream were terrifying. The Yuan King didn''t want to encounter either of them again. But the bad news kepting, one after another. The officials and civilians of Yuan State were allining. The Yuan King had stubbornly insisted on attacking Jing Country, and now not only had they not won, but they had suffered a great defeat. Over thirty thousand soldiers had perished, all of whom were the flesh and blood of civilian families. The people didn''t darein openly, but in private, they began to curse and hate the Yuan King bitterly. Many viges had bandits rising in rebellion, and Yuan soldiers were sent everywhere to suppress them. For a time, even the officials harbored resentment. [The Yuan King''s mental state has dropped to 41.] [I don''t care about his mental state anymore.] Xiao Chuchu felt the Yuan King was very uninteresting. She didn''t expect ancient people to be so timid and easily frightened. It was too boring, and she no longer wanted to torment the Yuan King. [The good news is that the Yuan King''s prestige in Yuan State has dropped a lot, only 73% now.] [But that''s still a bit high, isn''t it? How can someone who deceives the world and kills his wives to cover up his own inadequacy deserve any prestige?] Xiao Chuchu had already returned to the Jing Country pce with Liu Chaniang. Xiao Yunzhou instructed the Ministry of Rites to draft articles condemning the Yuan King''s attack on Jing Country and demandingpensation. At this moment, Xiao Yunzhou was listening to his daughter torment the Yuan King while reading the memorials from the Ministry of Rites cursing the Yuan King. He couldn''t be more pleased. Why had his fairy daughter stopped and no longer wanted to torment the Yuan King? Someone like the Yuan King, who deserved heaven''s punishment, should be tormented more! Xiao Yunzhou was still unsatisfied, feeling that his fairy daughter was too soft-hearted. But soon he heard his daughter''s thoughts and his body shuddered. [The Yuan King''s dreams are no longer fun. Hmm, starting today, I''ll give dreams to the cab and the heads of the six ministries in Yuan State.] [I''m such a good person, I should tell them that the Yuan King is impotent, has murdered three empresses, and confused the royal lineage!] Xiao Yunzhou''s eyes widened, "Cough cough cough cough¡ª" He choked on a mouthful of tea. The poison... no, not poison, the punishment... his fairy daughter really knew how to punish people! As expected of a fairy! Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang both quietly pricked up their ears with great interest. ... Soon, night fell and all was quiet. Whether in Yuan State or Jing Country, most people had entered the realm of dreams. But there was a big difference between them. Many people in Jing Country were smiling and rxed in their sleep, while many in Yuan State were frowning in their dreams. For example, the Prime Minister of Yuan State, Shangguan Ming, his old face was constantly changing expressions in his dream. He dreamed of a fairy child, fair-skinned and rosy-cheeked, adorable and innocent, with red ribbons in his hair, standing on clouds. A voice as melodious as jade chimes spoke of the most terrifying things in the world. "Are you the Prime Minister of Yuan State?" The fairy child''s almond eyes were clear and pure, his features exquisite. Although it was their first meeting, Shangguan Ming somehow deeply believed this was a fairy child. Otherwise, how would the other know his name? A fairy child had graced his dream with a visit ¡ª Shangguan Ming clearly sensed this conclusion, and his spirit immediately became solemn. He sped his hands respectfully and bowed in greeting. "Yes. I am indeed the Prime Minister of Yuan State, Shangguan Ming, forty-seven years old this year, residing on Six Harmony Street..." Shangguan Ming reported his detailed information very piously, just as he would when praying at a temple. The fair and beautiful fairy child, dressed in a lotus-colored pce robe with ribbons floating in the wind, looked ethereal. He nodded at him with satisfaction and smiled slightly. "Since you, Shangguan Ming, are so devout, this fairy will tell you a heavenly secret that will greatly benefit you and Yuan State." Shangguan Ming was delighted! Recently, the Yuan army had been badly defeated by Jing Country. Not only was there chaos within the country, but the neighboring King Zhou Ling was also demandingpensation, citing Yuan King''s bullying and murder of his niece, Princess Ronghua. And Jing Country''s letter of usation, demandingpensation from Yuan State, was sure to arrive in a few days. As the Prime Minister of Yuan State, Shangguan Ming had been at his wit''s endtely, barely able to clean up after the Yuan King. Now that a fairy child hade to his dream to help and reveal heavenly secrets, Shangguan Ming was overjoyed. "I am deeply grateful for the fairy''s kindness. Shangguan Ming has no way to repay you, but tomorrow I will certainly bring my whole family to offer incense to the fairy!" The fairy child standing on the clouds waved his hand casually, "No need for incense. Heavenly secrets cannot be revealed. There is a bnce of yin and yang in the world, and I require something else from you in exchange." Shangguan Ming was stunned and was about to ask what it was. Then he saw the fairy child point, and a folded yellow paper fell into Shangguan Ming''s palm. On this yellow paper were written fourrge characters ¡ª [Carry out Heaven''s Will]! Shangguan Ming was taken aback. "Agree to the request written above, and I will tell you the heavenly secret." "!" Shangguan Ming found it amazing, but still respectfully nodded, "I am already the Prime Minister of a country, of course I should uphold justice for the people. If heaven doesn''t punish, I will. Rest assured, fairy child, I will do my utmost to maintain the principles of heavenly justice!" The fairy child smiled and nodded, "Good, then listen carefully. The heavenly secret is¡ª" "The Yuan King was born impotent." "!" "?" "!!!" These six words made Shangguan Ming, even in his dream, sense his physical body outside the dream almost jumping up in shock. This heavenly secret... this heavenly secret... Shangguan Ming had been the Prime Minister of Yuan State for five years, but this was the first time he felt he might faint in a dream! The Yuan King was born impotent, what did the fairy child mean? The Yuan King was incapable? How was that possible? The Yuan King had had a prince ten years ago! Now he had three princes and two princesses! Shangguan Ming was dumbfounded in his dream, sweating profusely. If the Yuan King was impotent, where did the current princese from, and how about the Crown Prince? However, the fairy child''s next words struck Shangguan Ming''s mind like a heavy blow. "The Yuan King''s impotence was gradually discovered by all three empresses after a few years in the pce, but they were all killed to silence them," the fairy child''s exquisite features were ice-cold. "Now it''s the fourth empress." "Moreover, the Yuan King''s attack on Jing Country was due to his lust for Jing Country''s Imperial Noble Fu Cha, hoping to stimte his virility and see if he could perform." Wh-what? Shangguan Ming was shocked. So this was the reason why three empresses had died, none of them living more than three years, with the shorteststing only a month in the pce before suddenly dying! So it was because of this? And the Yuan King, disregarding the opposition of the Marquis of Pacifying the State, had his confidant lead the attack on Jing Country for this personal matter? "For his own selfish desires, he treats human lives as grass, ughtering and causing the deaths of thirty thousand soldiers and civilians. He is unfit to be king!" "Shangguan Ming, as the Prime Minister of Yuan State, remember what you just promised this fairy ¡ª you should carry out Heaven''s Will!" The fairy child narrowed his adorable almond eyes, looking fiercely cute at Shangguan Ming. Shangguan Ming felt cold all over. Carry out Heaven''s Will ¡ª the fairy child had entered his dream to make him punish the Yuan King, bring him to justice, and remove him from the throne? This... As Shangguan Ming was panicking, he heard the fairy''s voice again. "If you break your dream oath, this fairy wille find you again and make you pay the price." "!!!" Shangguan Ming was so startled that he suddenly opened his eyes wide on his bed. Waking up, he realized his whole body was covered in sweat, with beads of sweat rolling down his face. "My lord, what''s wrong?" Madam Shangguan, woken by him, asked with concern. Shangguan Ming swallowed and found he couldn''t utter a word. What happened? How could he exin? Should he say he dreamed of a fairy child, or that the fairy child had threatened him? Or should he say that the Yuan King might be impotent! Was any of this true or false? Shangguan Ming was dazed. That day, he had originally nned to take a day off and not attend the morning court, but then he remembered the fairy child in the dream telling him to "keep his promise and carry out Heaven''s Will," so Shangguan Ming dared not stay home. Even if he, as a Prime Minister, couldn''t punish the Yuan King, carrying out Heaven''s Will meant at least he should protect the people of Yuan State and act on their behalf. Shangguan Ming sighed, leaving home with a dizzy head, and arrived at the waiting area for the morning court in a daze, seeing that many officials had already arrived. Among them, more than half of the heads of the six ministries looked dispirited and their eyes were shifty. Shangguan Ming was stunned for a moment, then said irritably, "Why do you all look so exhausted? Surely you didn''t all have nightmares like this old man?" Originally, this was meant to be an outlet for the frustration and gloom pent up in his heart. However, to his surprise, upon hearing his words, all six ministers of the royal court visibly trembled, their faces betraying a sense of unease. "Chancellor, how did you know?" one of them asked nervously. "Chancellor, what do you mean by ''also'' having nightmares?" another chimed in. "You... you couldn''t possibly have... dreamed of a celestial maiden too, could you?" a third minister stammered. What... WHAT!? Shangguan Ming''s eyes widened in shock. Chapter 226 Shangguan Ming, the Prime Minister of Yuan, and the Ministers of the Six Departments exchanged shocked nces at the entrance of the morning court''s assembly hall. "What does this mean?" Shangguan Ming''s voice lowered, "Did you all dream of a young girl?" "Yes, indeed." "That''s right, Prime Minister Shangguan." "...!" Shangguan Ming was dumbfounded. How could they all have had the same dream? "What did this celestial child tell you all?" As Shangguan Ming spoke these words, it was as if all his strength had been drained. But as he asked this, the other six ministers looked terrified and nced towards the guards at the entrance of the assembly hall. "This... Prime Minister, we can''t speak of it here." "Are you trying to get us in trouble, Prime Minister?" "We can''t talk about this! Prime Minister! If I speak of it, something terrible will happen!" The Ministers of Personnel and others all looked panic-stricken and uneasy, not daring to reveal the contents of their dreams. Shangguan Ming felt lightheaded, and his symptoms of dizziness became more pronounced. The dream content that no one dared to speak of seemed eerily simr to the secret about the Yuan King he had heard. Shangguan Ming felt like he was about to faint. If it had just been him who dreamed it, it could have been dismissed as a mere dream. But for all six ministers to dream of this celestial child revealing heavenly secrets, could it still be a coincidence? "Court is in session!" At the appointed time, a young eunuch at the entrance of the assembly hall called out. Shangguan Ming and the six ministers exchanged nces, each seeing the caution, nervousness, depression, and despair in the others'' eyes. If their individual dreams all contained the same content, and if this heavenly secret from the dream was true, wouldn''t the current Yuan Mu Royal Family be a joke? Shangguan Ming and the six ministers felt lost inside, but couldn''t show it on their faces. Entering the court, they couldn''t help but look towards the Yuan King on his throne¡ª The more they looked, the more Shangguan Ming and the six ministers felt something was off about the Yuan King! A few days ago, the Yuan King had thrown away all the bronze mirrors in the pce and forbidden the pce staff from letting their hair down in his presence! And in these past few days, not a single pce maid was to be seen. Even the young Empress had been sent to a temple, supposedly to pray for the Yuan Army''s sess! The Yuan King clearly had something to hide! Bronze mirrors, long hair, women... The Yuan King''s problem was obviously rted to women! What the celestial child said was likely true! "Prime Minister, um, what did you just say?" The Yuan King sat on his throne, having not slept well for days, his spirit low and dark circles under his eyes. These past two days, he had been afraid of having bad dreams and dared not sleep easily, yawning one after another. He couldn''t focus on what the officials below were saying. "I didn''t hear clearly, speak up a bit," he said. Shangguan Ming''s heart skipped a beat. Hadn''t he spoken loudly enough? Was this a joke? Looking at the Yuan King''s face, younger than his own yet more haggard, Shangguan Ming''s expression turned grim. The Yuan King was truly unwell! Medical texts say that when a mancks vigor, it''s due to physical weakness, poor constitution, and depleted vital energy. The Yuan King''s deafness and puffy face were exactly the symptoms of kidney deficiency! Shangguan Ming''s heart sank to the bottom. He repeated what he had just said, his gaze involuntarily scanning the Yuan King''s face. Seeing the Yuan King''s sparse beard and irritable temper, his heart continued to sink. The Yuan King, thoughcking in spirit, felt puzzled, "Prime Minister, is there something on my face?" "...No, Your Majesty." The Yuan King frowned. If there was nothing, why keep staring? Casually gazing upon the dragon''s countenance was a grave offense! But he couldn''t punish the Prime Minister on a whim. Irritated, he turned his head only to find the six ministers all averting their gazes, stealing nces at him. What was going on? The Yuan King rubbed his throbbing temples, growing even more agitated, "I haven''t been sleeping welltely. Starting tomorrow, there will be no morning court for three days!" The Yuan King left his seat in embarrassment. The civil and military officials were about to surround Shangguan Ming and the six ministers to discuss how to handle the recent military defeat, but they all fled faster than the others. "We''ll discuss it tomorrow!" "Tomorrow, tomorrow¡ª" Shangguan Ming and the six ministers exchanged a nce before quickly leaving the pce, quietly exchanging code words under the bewildered gaze of the other officials. "Celestial child? Lotus-colored pce dress?" "This official didn''t notice the celestial child''s attire, but they left a four-character motto¡ª" The Minister of Personnel pointed to the sky, saying two words before closing his mouth, "Heaven''s..." "Will..." "Be done." The Ministers of Works and Justice silently mouthed the words, each adding a character as if exchanging a secret code. Shangguan Ming''s body swayed. So everyone had dreamed the same thing!? Could it really have been a celestial child entering their dreams? "Did they say that the Yuan King..." Shangguan Ming suddenly stopped. The six ministers widened their eyes, then nodded in unison, then shook their heads. Shangguan Ming and the six ministers all fell silent, their faces turning from pale to dark. It wasn''t false. Everyone had dreamed of a celestial child entering their dreams, saying the Yuan King was impotent! It was over. The current princes and princesses, the entire royal bloodline was fake! And the three Empresses¡ª Next to Shangguan Ming, the Minister of War suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood, his face turning golden, and fell backward. "Lord Chen!" "This is bad, quickly, to the medical hall!" Shangguan Ming hurriedly supported the Minister of War, his face extremely grim. The Yuan King''s first Empress had been the daughter of the Minister of War! The second Empress was the granddaughter of the current Border General. The third Empress was the daughter of the Former Prime Minister. Shangguan Ming closed his eyes. If the Yuan King had truly harmed the three Empresses, the Minister of War and the Border General would surely hate him to the bone. The Yuan King would lose the support of most of the current military! And the Former Prime Minister was the role model for the Yuan Mu schrs of today. Shangguan Ming''s heart was in chaos. If this were true, the court would surely fall into turmoil, unless the Yuan King issued an edict of self-me and abdicated immediately! They had to find evidence and make preparations as soon as possible! "We need to find a way to investigate this thoroughly." The celestial child only spoke but left no evidence, s. Worried, Shangguan Ming barely touched his evening meal. When night fell, he bathed and changed clothes, refusing to be intimate with his wife before bed. Shangguan Ming pushed away his wife as she leaned in, "Not tonight, no, not for the next few days." "If the celestial child from before the divine seates again tonight, how could I defile myself?" "I''ve bathed and changed, burned incense and washed my hands to wee the celestial child. You''d better bathe as well, mydy," Shangguan Ming said seriously. "Although the celestial child enters my dream, you are right beside me. If you are not clean, it would also be a desecration of the divine," he added. Madam Shangguan: "???" What? What was this about? "Where did this celestial childe from?" Madam Shangguan was confused, "What nonsense are you talking?" Shangguan Ming waved his hand, "Mydy, you probablyck the spiritual root to understand. Even if I exined, you wouldn''tprehend. Never mind, the celestial child ising for me, not you." Madam Shangguan red at him. She wanted to get to the bottom of this, but Shangguan Ming had already devoutlyin down to sleep, sping his hands and muttering "Amitabha" before bed, ignoring herpletely. Madam Shangguan rolled her eyes in anger. What celestial child? The old fool was just talking nonsense. But as shey down angrily under the thin quilt, it wasn''t long before she began to dream. ... [Awooo, my dream projection can only appear as a five-year-old, how annoying. It doesn''t match my image as a breathtakingly beautiful immortal.] Xiao Chuchuined as she crafted dream packages for the officials'' wives of Yuan. Xiao Yunzhou silently patted her and nced at Liu Chaniang, who remained quiet beside them. He really wanted to see the five-year-old version of his daughter too. But s, he couldn''t. Only the people of Yuan were lucky enough to dream of his fairy daughter''s adorable five-year-old appearance. [This afternoon when the Minister of War''s wife was napping, I entered her dream. As soon as I mentioned her daughter, she got scared and confessed everything.] [Sigh, it turns out she knew all along that her daughter, despite being the Empress, was killed by the Yuan King, but she didn''t dare speak up. As the first Empress killed by the Yuan King, if the Minister of War''s wife had revealed the true cause of her daughter''s death at the time, it might have prevented the tragedies of the next two Empresses.] [But she was too afraid. She feared that after her daughter was killed by the Yuan King, she would be next as the one who knew the truth.] [On the first day she visited her daughter after she became Empress, the Minister of War''s wife learned about the Yuan King''s impotence from her daughter''s ount of their first night, s.] [For so many years, she has hated the Yuan King while also hating her own weakness. Even when her daughter died tragically, she only dared to swallow her anger in silence.] Xiao Chuchu sighed. [Don''t worry, Minister of War''s wife. Tonight, celestial Chuchu will help remind the other officials'' wives.] [Any family with unmarried daughters can no longer send their daughters to the Yuan King!] [Alright, I''ll enter their dreams~] ... Madam Shangguan fell into a deep slumber. Soon, she discovered that she too was dreaming of a celestial child! "Are you Madam Shangguan, Xue Li?" In her dream, Madam Shangguan''s mouth suddenly fell open as she looked at the adorable celestial child before her, with fair skin and rosy cheeks, appearing to be about five or six years old. "Your young daughter is sixteen years old, not yet married, and on the list for this pce''s selection of maidens, is that correct?" Chapter 227 Madam Shangguan was stunned, looking at the adorable and auspicious little celestial child in her dream, who resembled a New Year''s painting. She heard the celestial child call her name, and then mention her young daughter. Madam Shangguan almost wanted to call her husband, Shangguan Ming, into the dream to listen together. There really was a celestial child! "Wise celestial child, my young daughter is indeed on the list of Imperial Concubine Candidates for the next selection," Madam Shangguan said anxiously. "Is there something wrong? This humble servant kneels and begs for your guidance!" Xiao Chuchu, who had entered Madam Shangguan''s dream, smiled slightly. "It seems you''re already aware of the danger." Madam Shangguan was startled, her admiration growing. "The celestial child is truly impressive!" Indeed, she had previously been reluctant to let her young daughter participate in the selection. This time, the Yuan King had insisted on attacking Jing, resulting in a crushing defeat. It was highly likely that he would issue an edict of self-me for this matter. If so, holding an extravagant selection of concubines would be inappropriate. Recently, Madam Shangguan had watched her husband, Shangguan Ming, struggle with the aftermath of the military defeat. Secretly, she felt somewhat relieved, praying to gods and Buddhas in hopes that this year''s selection would be canceled. Then her young daughter wouldn''t have to participate in the selection! Madam Shangguan didn''t know why she felt this way, perhaps because the Yuan King had already had four Empresses. A Yuan King who had lost three Empresses seemed destined to bring misfortune to his wives! Who knew if the Yuan King would bring misfortune to her daughter? Madam Shangguan felt that no amount of glory and riches was worth risking her daughter''s well-being. "This humble servant indeed does not want her young daughter to participate in the selection. I do not wish for her to enter the pce. I implore the celestial child to show me a clear path!" Madam Shangguan immediately knelt before Xiao Chuchu''s five-year-old dream form. Xiao Chuchu smiled gently. "It''s not that you have no options; you simplyck the courage to take a desperate gamble." Hearing this, Madam Shangguan''s whole body trembled. As expected of a celestial child, even this was known! She could indeed have her daughter feign illness to avoid the selection, but if the Yuan King discovered the ruse, it would be a grave offense. Madam Shangguan dared not take the risk, and she didn''t know how to convince her husband, Shangguan Ming. So the celestial child was absolutely right¡ªit wasn''t that she had no options, but that shecked sufficient resolve! Xiao Chuchu nodded, then waved her sleeve. Madam Shangguan soon found herself alone in the imperial pce, seemingly in the quarters of the pcedies. Before long, as Madam Shangguan was still confused, she witnessed a shocking scene! She saw the first Empress from several years ago, shortly after the Yuan King had ascended to the throne. This poor child, who had long since passed away from illness, appeared in her dream. Madam Shangguan was stunned, hesitating whether to pay respects to the ''Former Empress'' when she was frightened by what she saw next. The Yuan King was also in the room. Dressed in his inner robes, he turned, his expression calm, yet he reached out and directly grasped the Former Empress''s neck as shey on the bed! Madam Shangguan covered her mouth in terror, stumbling back half a step. "I don''t want to kill you, but you know my secret!" "It''s all your fault¡ªyou''re the Empress, yet you''re useless, unable to provide me with heirs. You deserve to die!" In the dream, the Yuan King, much younger than he was now, spoke with a cold and vicious voice. Madam Shangguan was shocked, watching the suffocating Empress struggle on the bed. Her whole body shook, cold sweat pouring down her face. But in the blink of an eye, just as she was too terrified to breathe, the scene before her vanished. The adorable and exquisite celestial child appeared before her again. "Madam, do you now have the courage to resist?" Madam Shangguan was deeply shaken. Looking at the celestial child again, her eyes filled with tears. A warning. This was the celestial child entering her dream to warn her! If her young daughter participated in the selection and was chosen by the Yuan King, she might face a future like the Former Empress¡ªdying an unclear and pitiful death, with no way to seek justice! Madam Shangguan''s teeth chattered uncontrobly. The Yuan King had lost three Empresses, and they were likely all victims. Her maternal instinct was strong¡ªher young daughter must not enter the pce! Even if this year''s selection was postponed for a year, her daughter must not participate! "This humble servant kneels in gratitude for the celestial child''s guidance. Starting tomorrow, I am willing to fast and pray to Buddha in appreciation. For your great kindness and virtue, this servant is willing to offer incense and oil in this life and the next, to repay you for generations toe!" Madam Shangguan was about to kowtow to the celestial child in her dream. But just as she began to bow, a mysterious force lifted her arms. "There''s no need." "I entered your dream not to seek repayment. But know that the power of women should not be underestimated. You should unite and help the Yuan Dynasty wee a truly enlightened ruler." "Let the evil Yuan King receive his just deserts." The adorable and exquisite celestial child reached out and tapped Madam Shangguan''s brow. "Heaven''s secrets cannot be revealed. Repay me with your actions." Madam Shangguan suddenly felt filled with strength! Not only was she unafraid of knowing heaven''s secrets, but she felt honored that the celestial child was willing to guide her and let her contribute. She wasn''tcking in wisdom as her husband, Shangguan Ming, had imed! "Celestial child, rest assured, I will definitely seed!" Madam Shangguan said excitedly. Amidst the ethereal sound of an ancient zither, the celestial child''s figure gradually blurred in the mist and clouds. "This humble servant bids farewell to the celestial child!" Madam Shangguan called out loudly, so excited that she instantly woke up! Her shout woke up Shangguan Ming, who was sleeping beside her. "Why are you shouting in your sleep? What''s all the fuss about?" Shangguan Ming had just woken up and hadn''t clearly heard his wife''s words. He was still frustrated that he had slept half the night without dreaming of new guidance from the celestial child. "If you hadn''t woken me up, I might have dreamed of the celestial child again, sigh." Madam Shangguan had intended to tell him about her dream of the celestial child, but hearing this, she became angry. "Youck wisdom yourself, yet you me me." "The celestial child doesn''t seek you out because you''re foolish. She must have given you a task that you failed toplete. She''s very disappointed in you, so she won''te to you anymore." Shangguan Ming was stunned and a bit guilty. "What do you know?" "I may not know much! But the celestial child gave me guidance tonight and told me to take action!" Madam Shangguan proudly raised her head, no longer sleepy. She immediately got up and put on her clothes. "I need to n carefully how to carry out the celestial child''s instructions." "???" "!" Shangguan Ming was shocked. "What? The celestial child came to you too? Is that true? What did she ask you to do?" How could this be? How did it change to entering his wife''s dream? "What else could it be? Of course it''s because you men can''t be relied upon!" "That''s why the celestial child came to me." Shangguan Ming: "!" No, carrying out heaven''s will was clearly a man''s job. What could women do? But no matter what he thought, Madam Shangguan left early the next morning. Several wives of first-rank officials gathered at the home of the Prefect of the Capital City''s wife. Before long, Madam Shangguan dismissed the servants and gave the group a knowing look. "Do you remember the death of the Minister of War''s daughter, the Former Empress?" "!" As soon as this topic came up, five or six of thedies present had changing expressions, while most looked confused. Madam Shangguan couldn''t help but look at those with unusual expressions. "Isn''t our Ping also on the list for this selection of Imperial Concubine Candidates?" "I went to offer incense yesterday, praying for Buddha to bless Ping." "And guess what? The incense broke, and the fire wouldn''t even light." "!!!" Madam Shangguan was clearly experienced in these gatherings ofdies and knew best what everyone liked to hear. She immediately captured the attention of all present. Then she dropped the bombshell, "I donated a hundred taels for oil money, and that night, I dreamed of a celestial child." "!" "She told me that the Former Empress''s death was suspicious. Participating in the selection would bring great misfortune." "!!!" All thedies'' expressions changed. [Oh my, the system says I''ve recruited Xue Li, Madam Shangguan, as an elite.] [Her personal skill is a silver tongue.] [She can make listeners believe deeply, and there''s a certain chance of uncovering new gossip.] Xiao Chuchu, separated by mountains and rivers spanning two countries, watched the scene of gossip unfolding around Madam Shangguan. Before long, she raised her little neck. [Wow, could it be that Madam Shangguan has uncovered evidence of the Yuan King killing the Empress?] Chapter 228 Madam Shangguan found herselfpletely in her element among a group ofdies. As soon as she broached the topic, everyone became deeply interested. After she made some slight alterations to the dream and spoke vaguely about it, several people in the room had already changed their expressions. "A celestial child?" "The former Empress''s cause of death was suspicious...? Wasn''t it a sudden illness?!" The group ofdies were stunned. But where there are people, there is gossip. As long as one person starts, others will continuously follow up! Madam Shangguan hadn''t even answered everyone''s questions before someone with glinting eyes spoke up. "A few years ago, I was a guest at the Meng Residence, coincidentally on the day the former Empress passed away. At that time, I saw that apart from grief, Madam Meng''s face actually showed an expression of terror!" Everyone was shocked and turned to look, realizing it was the Inspector''s wife who had spoken. The Inspector''s wife used to frequently visit the Meng Residence, the home of the Minister of War. She didn''t seem like someone who would lie. "Why would she be terrified?" Thedies present who were mothers felt they had stumbled upon some juicy gossip. Once this started, it was unstoppable. Some memories that seemed trivial at the time due to the passage of years suddenly came flooding back. "Didn''t the nanny the former Empress brought into the pce disappear shortly after returning to the Meng Residence?" "I don''t think I''ve seen that nanny again. Did she really return to the Meng Residence?" Madam Shangguan''s eyes suddenly began to flicker wildly. She turned to look at anotherdy beside her, "Qian Sister, over ten years ago, didn''t you have a maid in your household who was from the same hometown as the former Empress''s nanny?" As soon as she said this, the eyes of all the women in the room lit up. Lady Qian was taken aback, "Indeed, I didn''t expect you to remember something about a mere maid." Madam Shangguan pped her thigh with an "Ah!" Unlike talenteddies who read books or those who bothered with educating their sons, from a young age until now, her favorite pastime had been chatting with other women. Listening to others gossip was Madam Shangguan''s greatest pleasure. Not only could she keep up with what others said, but she could also turn around and tell it to someone else. Over time, she remembered some small details very clearly. "Isn''t it because life is dull? If it weren''t for some interesting things happening in everyone''s households, I''d be bored to death all day," Madam Shangguan coughed lightly. "Qian Sister, that maid of yours even poured tea for me once back then." "At that time, I chatted with her for a bit, and we happened to talk about the nanny by the former Empress''s side. It was said that when this nanny was young, she loved to eat the meat close to the bone." All thedies in the room admired Madam Shangguan''s ability to gather so much useless information from gossip. But today, Madam Shangguan''s talent for remembering gossip proved to be of great use. Her mention of this stirred up Lady Qian''s buried memories, "That nanny didn''t return to the Meng Residence. I heard from my maid that after leaving the pce, the nanny took a carriage back to her hometown." As Lady Qian spoke, she frowned, "But when she was almost at the estate, the carriage overturned into a river, and when the nanny was pulled out, she was already breathless." "!" "!!" All thedies in the room gasped. Those with weaker constitutions even dropped their cups on the table with a tter. Earlier, when Madam Shangguan mentioned the celestial child''s dream and the suspicious circumstances of the former Empress''s death, they had taken it as a joke. But now, they learned that the former Empress''s nanny had also died mysteriously. This matter was bing increasinglyplex! Madam Shangguan sighed, looking very worried, "With the selection of concubines approaching, even if it''s postponed for a year, it will still happen next year. What will be of our daughters who are waiting to be married?" Suddenly, all thedies in the room became concerned. Unlike their husbands who had official duties and were familiar with state affairs, they didn''t usually worry about such matters. However, they were very attentive to their daughters'' affairs. Now, prompted by Madam Shangguan, they all imagined their daughters or granddaughters entering the pce in the future, and if they were to end up like the former Empress... All thedies in the room shuddered. "I don''t know much about Empress Meng''s situation, but Empress Liu''s father was actually the teacher of my sister-inw''s elder brother. I''ll go ask about Empress Liu''s circumstances." Empress Liu was the second empress who had died. With this mention, everyone''s thoughts immediately expanded. "I don''t have any familial connections to Empress Liu, but Empress Zheng, I practically watched her grow up." Empress Zheng was the third empress who had died... "My husband was also a student of the Liu family." "I know Empress Liu''s wet nurse." Madam Shangguan nodded repeatedly, very satisfied with everyone''s enthusiastic responses. But she quickly raised her hand and singled out a few people. "Didn''t your husband serve as a pce guard?" "Didn''t you hire a pce maid to tutor your daughter before the New Year?" "Wasn''t your father-inw once the Crown Prince''s teacher, frequently entering the pce?" At once, thedies around Madam Shangguan seemed to have received their own investigative tasks. These tasks didn''t need to be forced upon them. Just mentioning it in this gossip session made thedies eager to act, partly out of curiosity to know the truth, and partly out of concern for their own children''s futures. "Alright, Sister Shangguan, I''ll ask my mother-inw as soon as I get home today." "That''s easy enough. I''ll have a drink with my husband and ask him when he''s tipsy." "Leave it to me. I''m very close to Empress Liu''s mother. I''ll write to her immediately..." [Wow, Madam Shangguan is so impressive.] Xiao Chuchu, observing from afar, couldn''t help but admire her. [Her ability to gather gossip is too strong. Not only can she spread information from one person to a hundred, but she can also mobilize everyone to search for clues. She''s really sweeping the melon field clean, determined to dig up every vine. I''m truly impressed.] [Not bad. Tonight when Madam Shangguan dreams, I should praise her~] Xiao Chuchu grinned. [By the way, I should recite to Madam Shangguan the skill books I''ve exchanged, like forensics and autopsy techniques.] Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang in the Jing Country pce pricked up their ears, bing increasingly rmed as they listened. Their little princess truly had divine methods! They hoped she wouldn''t scare that Yuan Statedy out of her wits! ... Madam Shangguan was unaware that her courage was causing concern for the Emperor of Jing Country. On the contrary, she felt energized after a day of gossiping! At night, seeing her Master Shangguan Ming bathing, burning incense, and getting into bed with prayer beads, Madam Shangguan couldn''t help but raise an eyebrow. "Master, did the celestial child really enter your dream? What did she say to you?" Madam Shangguan wanted to know if she and her husband had dreamed of the same celestial child. But she dared not directly tell her husband about her dream, as heavenly secrets should not be revealed. Madam Shangguan remembered what the celestial child had said. She knew the heavenly secrets, but she had paid a price ¨C actively seeking the truth, she had been busy all day! She didn''t dare to casually tell Shangguan Ming, who hadn''t paid the price, for fear of shortening his lifespan. But when she carefully asked, Shangguan Ming refused to answer. "Just focus on organizing our grandson''s full moon celebration at home. Don''t ask about other matters," Shangguan Ming nced at his old wife irritably. "I knew that when you said you dreamed of a celestial childst night, you were lying to me." "What use is there in telling you about the great affairs of the world?" Madam Shangguan immediately felt displeased and yanked the nket off him, "Fine, fine, I''m not worthy of knowing! Go sleep in your study!" "That won''t do," Shangguan Ming firmly refused. "What if the celestial child is particr about beds? How can that be good? If I go to the study, she won''t be able to find me." Madam Shangguan rolled her eyes. But that night, they fell asleep at the same time. Shangguan Ming chanted scriptures all night but didn''t dream of the celestial child. However, when Madam Shangguan woke up in the morning, she was refreshed and glowing. "Master, I dreamed of the celestial child again. The celestial child said I''m more promising than you, so she decided to give me some proper guidance." Shangguan Ming: "???" Talking nonsense so early in the morning! How could that be possible? "Wife, tell me then, what clothes was the celestial child wearing?" "I didn''t notice that." "Hmph, a pack of lies!" "But Master, I saw the celestial book in the celestial child''s hand, ''The Complete Manual of Coroner''s Autopsy Techniques''." "???" Chapter 229 "What ''Complete Guide to Coroner''s Examination''? She probably heard it in some opera," Shangguan Mingined to the Minister of Personnel. "It''s impossible that a celestial child told her." The Minister of Personnel recalled that his own wife had been acting mysteriously these past few days, leaving early and returningte, bathing and burning incense at night as if waiting for something to enter her dreams. He dared not agree with Shangguan Ming. "Prime Minister, who knows?" "If the celestial child can enter our dreams and give us all the same warning, then perhaps it also entered our wives'' dreams." Shangguan Ming''s long beard twitched. Of course, he knew this was possible. But now he felt it was extremely unlikely. "The celestial child might enter her dreams, but would it reveal a celestial treasure to my wife and not to me?" "Cheng Liao, how could that be possible?" "Doesn''t the celestial child know that my wife only loves to gossip over tea and meals? Ask her about any family''s affairs, and she knows everything. But ask her to discern right from wrong, and she''spletely clueless, barely able to read a few characters." Yuan also believed in the saying ''A woman''s virtue lies in herck of talent.'' So Shangguan Ming wasn''t looking down on his wife; it was just that she had never studied much. If the celestial child bestowed her with a celestial book, would she even understand it? The celestial child knew everything about the world, so how could it not know that his wife could barely recognize a few words? Shangguan Ming waved his hand, "Forget it. It''s probably because I spoke lightly of her, and she''s angry and deliberately defying me, throwing a tantrum." "Let''s focus on the important matters. I wrote a secret letterst night." They were secretly investigating the causes of death of several empresses. But soon, Shangguan Ming discovered that wherever they investigated, someone had already been there ahead of them. "Prime Minister, your wife also came to ask about this." "I just told the Minister of Revenue about this the day before, your wife, that is." "Oh? A few days ago, the Inspector''s wife also mentioned something simr to me." The men were all stunned. ... The gossip group gathered by Madam Shangguan gradually approached the truth. Their attitude changed from initial curiosity to horror, anger, and solemnity. Especially today, Madam Shangguan and the Inspector''s wife, leading a group of sisters, used the excuse of burning incense to visit farnds in the outskirts of the city. Their expressions had be solemn. "Do we really need to dig her up?" The Inspector''s wife had be nervous, looking at Madam Shangguan with hesitation in her eyes. Madam Shangguan nodded, "Yes, the matter is too important. We have no choice." "What if it really involves the Emperor..." someone said nervously, then quickly stopped. Madam Shangguan waved her hand, lookingposed, "I just bought thisnd and invited a feng shui master to look at it. The master advised me to relocate the graves here, which is why I''m having them exhumed these days." "What does this have to do with the pce?" Madam Shangguan''s confident demeanor also relieved the women around her. Soon, someone chimed in, "That''s right. Even if this person was a nurse to the former empress, her family has agreed to move the grave. The divination shows that this move will benefit not only the Shangguan family but also her descendants." Madam Shangguan nodded, "Indeed, it benefits all parties. That''s why I''m doing this." As they discussed, a Taoist priest soon began performing rituals and chanting, then men came to dig and lift the coffin. Madam Shangguan nervously sped her hands together. With the celestial child guiding her in her dreams, she wasn''t afraid. As the celestial child had said, she should act as its spokesperson in the mortal world, seeking justice for these victims! Let the evildoers be punished! Otherwise, these buried dead could never rest in peace. Thinking this, Madam Shangguan found courage. Even when the lifted coffin emitted a putrid odor, she suppressed her panic and fear. ''String the bones together with hemp rope, then ce them in a heated pit and fumigate with wine and vinegar. After two to four hours, remove the bones and examine them under sunlight, shielding them with a red oil paper umbre.'' ''If there are ces where the bones were struck, faint red blood shadows will appear.'' ''If the bones were broken, there will be traces of blood shadows at both ends of the fracture...'' Madam Shangguan recited silently, quickly instructing the servants and family members on what to do. Soon, not only Madam Shangguan was dumbfounded, but even the deceased''s family members were shocked into silence. The bones indeed revealed faint red marks, especially a ring of red around the neck, with the cervical vertebrae fractured! There were also several irregr blood shadows on the limbs. "My mother was really murdered?!" The Nurse''s Son stared wide-eyed, both horrified and trembling. "After the former empress passed away, my mother was rewarded with a carriage by the Yuan King and left the pce..." The Inspector''s wife and the group of women awoke from their shock, but they still maintained their rationality. "If the carriage had overturned into a river, causing death by drowning, there shouldn''t be so many bone fractures and breaks..." But now the skeleton showed clear blood marks on the back of the neck, and even the limbs had injury marks. Madam Shangguan took a deep breath, "That''s right. If it were death by drowning, it''s too coincidental that the neck bone was broken, and there shouldn''t be blood marks on all four limbs simultaneously." "This looks like... she struggled before death but was overpowered by someone stronger, causing injuries to her limbs." The Nurse''s Son turned pale, "At the time, my mother''s carriage fell into the river, and it took two days to retrieve her. Her entire body was so bloated it was unrecognizable." The family couldn''t bear to look closely, so the broken neck was overlooked at the time. "Is it possible that the damage urred when they pulled her out of the river?" The Inspector''s wife''s logic was surprisingly clear. Madam Shangguan took a deep breath and shook her head. The celestial book given by the celestial child had already told her. "These are pre-death injuries." "If you take bones with blood shadows and examine them in sunlight, a rosy color indicates they were struck before death. If there are no blood shadows on the bones, even if there''s damage or fractures, it was caused after death." "The former empress''s nurse was probably already dead before she was put in the carriage and sent out of the pce," Madam Shangguan looked at everyone. All the women panicked. Doesn''t this mean the former empress''s death was indeed suspicious? What should they do? Open the empress''s coffin for an autopsy? The Yuan King would surely kill them! Impossible! "This matter is beyond our ability to resolve now," the Inspector''s wife spoke up. "I''m going back right now to tell my husband!" Madam Shangguan nodded in agreement, "That''s right. Only with thebined effort of all officials and the voice of the people can we request the Emperor''s consent to investigate the former empress''s cause of death!" Even if the other party is the monarch, so what? Shouldn''t he want to investigate whether histe wife was murdered? "The former empress might have been killed by the favored concubine, the empress dowager, or even by pce maids and eunuchs close to her." If the Yuan King doesn''t agree to the autopsy, it means he has something to hide! Madam Shangguan gritted her teeth and ordered people to wrap up the bones and return to the city. But before they could get on the carriage, they saw Shangguan Ming and several other ministers hurrying over. "What are you doing? What nonsense are you up to?" Shangguan Ming saw the exhumed bones and nearly lost his soul. "Is this any of your business?" Madam Shangguan squinted at him, "If I don''t handle this, who will!" After all, the celestial child had entered her dreams! She was the chosen one by the celestial child! The celestial child thought she had the ability and wisdom, even praised her and rewarded her with a celestial book! Madam Shangguan felt she had never been so proud in front of her husband, Shangguan Ming. "My lord, stop making a fuss. Don''t interfere with us women''s affairs." "???" "We''ve already uncovered the truth about the former empress''s nurse''s death, and we''re about to send these bones to the Ministry of Justice for the minister to examine." "??!" "Oh, by the way, my lord, you said we couldn''t do it, so what have you discovered?" "...!" Chapter 230 Shangguan Ming was deeply shaken by his wife''s autopsy conclusion. For a moment, he didn''t know whether to be more shocked that the celestial child had truly taught his wife the art of forensic examination, or that the Yuan King was likely guilty of evil deeds. Shangguan Ming sighed heavily in his heart and raised his hand to stop Madam Shangguan''s impulsive move to rush to the Ministry of Justice and expose this matter. "My dear, we need to n this carefully. We mustn''t be hasty." "How can we n carefully?" Madam Shangguan red, knowing the imperial selection was imminent. Shangguan Ming took a deep breath, "I''ve already written to old friends, and I''ve arranged to meet someone tonight for a detailed discussion." This matter had to be dealt with swiftly, exposing it before the Yuan King could react, so that the court officials could unite in pressuring him. "We mustn''t alert the enemy." [Indeed, if Madam Shangguan reports to the authorities now, it might alert the Yuan King. He''s likely to make the first move, and even if he agrees to open the coffin, he''ll have erased all evidence by then.] [Once the Yuan King catches his breath, he''ll retaliate and kill everyone involved in this matter.] Xiao Chuchu watched the remote live stream, truly worried for the women. But she was just a child, far away in Jing Country, unable to offer much help. [It''s so frustrating.] Shangguan Ming gave Madam Shangguan a meaningful look, which she immediately understood. After all, they had been married for many years. "My lord, do you mean we should act in secret?" Shangguan Ming nced at her and nodded. "But the emperor has eyes and ears everywhere. How can we act in secret? I fear that tonight, as soon as you gather the Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries to discuss matters at home, before evening falls, the one in the pce will already know your movements." "Not to mention, you still need to recruit more officials to join this cause," Madam Shangguan rolled her eyes. "You, a grand chancellor, meeting with hundreds of court officials after work, having private discussions behind closed doors ¨C do you think the emperor will let that slide?" The Yuan King might overlook the movements of the women, but the actions of important court officials, especially the Chancellor and Ministers at this time of military defeat, were all under the surveince of the Imperial Censors. The Yuan King also had his own secret guards to monitor the officials. "Secret talks, secret letters," Madam Shangguan shook her head, "it''s impossible to seed." Shangguan Ming frowned. He knew the risks were extreme, but there was no better option. "Ah, I''ve got it!" Madam Shangguan''s eyes lit up, "My lord, tell me the content of your secret discussions!" Shangguan Ming was stunned, staring at her in disbelief. He looked at his wife''s radiant face, "Tell you?" Determination filled Madam Shangguan''s eyes, "Yes. You tell me the content of the secret discussions and the names of the officials. Tonight, I''ll dream of the celestial child and ask him to enter the dreams of those officials to ry the message." Madam Shangguan finished speaking and pped her thigh in delight, "Wouldn''t that work?" Shangguan Ming was dumbfounded. Could it really be done this way? "Nonsense. Is the celestial child your pet that you can order around?" Madam Shangguan huffed and turned her back on him. But after a moment''s thought, she turned back, "What''s the harm in trying? What if it works?" "The celestial being is benevolent and seeks to benefit the world." Shangguan Ming waved his sleeve dismissively, but in the end, he couldn''t resist that night. Conspiring with the Chief Ministers of the Six Ministries alone was far from enough; he needed to unite with his old subordinates and students as well. If even one piece of information leaked, the Yuan King would surely not spare him, and would definitely kill them all first. The matter of contaminating the royal bloodline was something the Yuan King would never allow them to know about and live. Shangguan Ming prepared for the worst. If they failed, he would die. If he wasn''t afraid of death, why fear cing hope in the celestial child? "My dear, ahem, turn around. I''ll tell you our action n." "You discovered today that the nanny died under suspicious circumstances, and we''ve also found that all the maids around the former empress died unnatural deaths." Madam Shangguan''s eyes widened. "We n to continue gathering evidence for the next three days. On the morning of the third day, we''ll submit a memorial to the court, with all civil and military officials jointly requesting the Yuan King to open the empress''s coffin for an autopsy." Shangguan Ming paused, "The memorial has already been written by the Minister of War." The Minister of War was the birth father of the first empress. It was most natural for him to submit the petition. Madam Shangguan understood. "Remember, it''s the morning court session three days from now," Shangguan Ming reminded his wife, feeling a bit uneasy. "Don''t get the timing wrong." "I understand," Madam Shangguan nodded repeatedly, quickly cing her hands naturally at her sides, ready to sleep. "My lord, I''m going to meet the celestial child now." Shangguan Ming''s mouth twitched, and he quickly closed his eyes too. Who knows, maybe he would dream of the child today! [Oh, they both want me to enter their dreams and pass on messages.] Xiao Chuchu hadn''t expected to be in such high demand while pretending to be a celestial being. Shangguan Ming and his wife were even arguing over her. [Who should I choose? Hmm, I''ll go with Madam Shangguan.] Xiao Chuchu quickly made her decision. [Shangguan Ming isn''t one of my recruited elite characters yet. There''s a daily limit on how many times I can enter his dreams, and it costs fifty points each time.] She was also frugal with her points, unwilling to let the system earn even one extra point. ... That night, Madam Shangguan quickly found herself in a dream, once again seeing the celestial child above the clouds and mist. The celestial child truly looked like the delicate children in New Year paintings. Today, he wore a begonia-colored padded jacket, with two tender yellow ribbons in his hair, looking very adorable. Madam Shangguan even felt the urge to hug the celestial child. She was truly being disrespectful! Feeling ashamed, Madam Shangguan immediately lowered her head, not daring to look directly at him. "Celestial child, this humble woman has indeed discovered some clues." She quickly recounted the discovery that the former empress''s nanny had been murdered. Then, she requested the celestial child to pass on a message. "Celestial child, my husband, though he holds the esteemed position of Chancellor in the mortal world, is still powerlesspared to the evil Yuan King." "Therefore, this humble woman begs the celestial child to lend a hand! Celestial child, for the sake of the people of Yuan, could you help my husband deliver a message? Three days from now, the court officials will take action during the morning court session." "The list of officials to be informed is as follows..." Madam Shangguan, skilled in gossip, was well-acquainted with the court officials of the capital. She rattled off a string of names in one breath, including almost all the civil and military officials. Xiao Chuchu, in the form of the delicate celestial child, couldn''t help but be amused. But thinking of the ill-fated empresses, Xiao Chuchu put on a serious face. "Mortal affairs, I cannot help you with. You must aplish this on your own." Madam Shangguan let out an "Ah" of disappointment, but quickly nodded, "This humble woman was too presumptuous. Celestial child, you are a divine being¡ª" Before she could finish, Xiao Chuchu interrupted her. "Tomorrow, before dawn, have your husband write a message of no more than ten characters and bury it under the third tree he encounters after turning left when he leaves home." Madam Shangguan jolted in surprise, looking up with joy. Xiao Chuchu smiled slightly and nodded at her, "Those who are destined will see it and understand your husband''s intentions." Madam Shangguan hurriedly knelt to express her gratitude, but the celestial child had already disappeared into the swirling mist. "Remember, these people are suspicious... You shouldn''t inform them of your secret ns..." The celestial child''s divine voice faded away with this final advice. Madam Shangguan hurriedlymitted it to memory. As someone well-versed in gossip, Madam Shangguan had an excellent memory. Upon waking, she immediately rolled over and shook awake her deeply sleeping husband. "My lord, wake up quickly! I dreamed of the celestial child!" "The celestial child said these officials are problematic, you can''t involve them in your ns, you must exclude them." "And also, the celestial child agreed to let you write a note under... that tree." Shangguan Ming was about to ask but then froze. The celestial child... really did appear!? And actually helped!? Wait, why did the child only enter his wife''s dream? "Celestial child above, please ept this old man''s bow!" Shangguan Ming dared not think further, surely his previous actions must have displeased the celestial child. He got out of bed and sincerely kowtowed. "This old man, on behalf of the people of Yuan, is grateful for the celestial child''s magical intervention!" "Henceforth, this old man will surely act righteously and carry out heaven''s will!" * The next day, many Yuan officials woke from their dreams, feeling a bit dazed. "Hm?" "The celestial child told me to go to the third apricot tree in front of the Chancellor''s house?" Chapter 231 "Why did I dream of a celestial maiden?" "The celestial maiden even gave me directions, saying that the heavenly secrets concerning my family''s prosperity or decline lie beneath the third apricot tree to the left of the Prime Minister''s residence?" "Hmm..." "I haven''t even been reading any ghost storiestely." Several officials attended the morning court session absentmindedly, their thoughts wandering. They spent the entire morning court staring at the figure of Prime Minister Shangguan Ming standing in front, but couldn''t make sense of it. What was this dream about? Could it be that their daytime thoughts had influenced their dreams? Were they coveting the Prime Minister''s apricot trees, or his position? The more they pondered, the more terrifying it seemed! The officials who had the dream didn''t dare speak of it, yet they couldn''t understand its meaning. Some tried to suppress and ignore it, while others, driven by curiosity, ventured to the apricot trees by the Prime Minister''s door under the cover of darkness. Those who dug beneath the trees and found something were astounded. Those who didn''t dig or dismissed the dream found themselves dreaming the same dream again on the second night. The same celestial maiden, with the same instructions to go to the apricot tree. Thingse in threes. On the first day, few people went to the tree. But by the morning of the second day, more had gone, and even more visited under the cover of darkness on the second night... By the third day''s morning court session, Shangguan Ming felt a bit uneasy. Looking at the officials waiting outside the hall, he saw knowing nces and eyes eager for confirmation. In an instant, Shangguan Ming understood - the celestial child had indeed delivered his message! "Your Majesty, I have a matter to report!" Everything went ording to n as the Minister of War stepped forward and dered loudly and indignantly before the weary-looking Yuan King. "I humbly request Your Majesty to open the Empress''s coffin for examination!" As soon as the Minister of War said this, the Yuan King''s eyelid twitched violently. But before the Yuan King could calm the Minister of War, all the civil and military officials suddenly knelt down. "I second the motion!" "I second the motion!" The celestial maiden had conveyed her message in their dreams. Beneath the apricot tree, there was also a brocade box, revealing heavenly secrets¡ªthe Empress''s tragic death, the Yuan King''s selfish rebellion, and his usurpation of the throne by harming his royal brother. One by one, the officials thought of the celestial maiden in their dreams and the contents of the brocade box. Hearing the Minister of War indeed mention this matter, they couldn''t help but kneel and second the motion, conforming to heaven''s will! "You... you''re all rebelling?!" The Yuan King raged from his throne. The officials below remained silent. But soon, another group of officials fell to their knees. It wasn''t that they wanted to rebel, but that heaven wanted to punish the Yuan King! "Your Majesty¡ªturn back before it''s toote!" The Old Imperial Censor knelt, his entire body trembling. "The celestial maiden entered our dreams and enumerated Your Majesty''s seven sins. Your Majesty should give justice to the fallen soldiers, the Empress, and the people of Yuan Mu!" The Yuan King stared in disbelief. "What... what celestial maiden entering dreams?" Only after the Old Imperial Censor spoke did the Yuan King notice that the entire hall was kneeling in fear, except for a few of his loyal ministers who remained standing. In an instant, the Yuan King thought of his dream predicting the great defeat of the Yuan Army, the terrifying woman he saw in the mirror, and the woman in his dream warning to punish him... The next moment, the Yuan King''s fingers began to tremble. "How dare you! Come...e here! Drag him away¡ª" The Yuan King, furious and embarrassed, stood up red-faced and pointed at the Old Imperial Censor. But the next moment, he fell backwards. "Your Majesty¡ª" "Your Majesty!" [Oh my goodness, the Yuan King''s mental state has already dropped to 29? A red warning state, no wonder he had a cerebral hemorrhage.] Xiao Chuchu watched the remote live broadcast in the Jing Country pce, eating melon seeds as she observed. [I didn''t expect the Yuan King to be so guilty.] [Well, with all the civil and military officials opposing him and wanting to list his crimes, he can''t exactly kill all the officials in the court. Yuan King, is this the end for you?] Xiao Chuchu anticipated, yet worried that the pressure might not be enough. Xiao Yunzhou should have gone to the morning court session, but hearing this at the crucial moment, he felt very ufortable. "Chaniang, hold our little princess ande with me to the Hall of Humble Administration, just like before." Liu Chaniang found it amusing but didn''t point it out. She shook her head, "The little princess has grown up and has her own ideas. If Your Majesty wants her to go, she needs to be willing." Xiao Yunzhou then pped his forehead and personally took his daughter to coax her, "Chuchu, would you like to attend the morning court with Father?" [No, Jing Country is peaceful now, how could our morning court be as exciting as Yuan Mu Country''s today?] [Multiple parties are pressuring the Yuan King, directly causing him to have a cerebral hemorrhage from anger.] Xiao Chuchu was now addicted to watching the live broadcast from the Yuan King''s side and wasn''t very interested in the ministers of Jing Country''s morning court. She pushed Xiao Yunzhou with her little hands, indicating that she didn''t want to go with him. Then she stretched out her two little arms towards Liu Chaniang, wanting her to hold her. The corner of Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. He also wanted to hear thetest news about the Yuan King as soon as possible! This melon... ahem, this information from Yuan Mu''s morning court was indeed more exciting today. "Well, Chaniang, look at our little princess, she wants you to hold her and go to the morning court." "..." Liu Chaniang rolled her eyes but still followed behind Xiao Yunzhou to the Hall of Humble Administration. Knowing the situation in Yuan Mu, Jing Country could also prepare early responses. Sure enough, shortly after Xiao Yunzhou sat down on the imperial throne in the Hall of Humble Administration, he heard his daughter''s real-time broadcast. [Holy crap, the Yuan King had a cerebral hemorrhage, the Imperial Academy of Medicine is performing emergency acupuncture, the Yuan King woke up, but his mouth is crooked and he can''t speak!] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice was excited. Even Xiao Yunzhou was stimted by what he heard, his hands immediately gripping the dragon throne. Good! [Karma alwayses, it''s just a matter of time! The Ring''s vengeful ghost scared the Yuan King badly, and today the officials'' uprising became the catalyst for his illness.] [Well, well, this Yuan King, who threatened our Jing Country''s male protagonist, should be finished now, right?] [Come to think of it, this setting of him being impotent must have been intentionally done by the author. As the male lead in a romance novel, how could he have a harem before meeting the female lead?] [The female lead must be his first woman.] Xiao Chuchu felt a chill run down her spine as she pondered this. Xiao Yunzhou was bewildered by what he heard. [The imperial physician said that if the Yuan King rests well and receives daily acupuncture, he might still recover.] Xiao Chuchu''s words made Xiao Yunzhou and Liu Chaniang tense up again. [Pfft, Shangguan Ming, this Prime Minister is incredible. He acted as if he hadn''t heard the imperial physician''s words and discussed with the six ministers around him that the Crown Prince is too young to shoulder such a heavy responsibility.] [They should invite the King of Shu from his fief to enter the capital immediately.] [The King of Shu is the Yuan King''s younger brother, aplished in both civil and military affairs, eight years younger than the Yuan King, and in his prime. When the Former Emperor was alive, he greatly favored the King of Shu.] Xiao Chuchu''s inner voice rattled on. Xiao Yunzhou immediately recalled the information about Yuan Mu Country''s King of Shu. If this person really ascends to the throne, as long as he maintains peaceful coexistence with Jing Country, it wouldn''t be bad. But before he could finish his thought, he was shocked by Xiao Chuchu''s subsequent inner voice. [Holy crap, the Duke of National Defense has arrived! He''s secretly in love with the current Empress, one of the main characters in Princess Ronghua''s favorite couple. He actually came!] [Goodness, five days ago I entered his dream to tell him about the Yuan King''s evil deeds and his impotence secret. He seemedpletely unaffected and didn''t take any action. I thought this person was impervious to influence.] [But he actually rushed here today, and even brought the King of Shu with him!] [He proposed to let the King of Shu temporarily take the position of the new Emperor of Yuan Mu until the Yuan King can speak again.] [The King of Shu immediately ordered a thorough investigation into the deaths of the past three Empresses, as well as the origin of the decision for the Yuan Army to attack Jing.] [The Yuan King had a stroke and is drooling in bed, making "ah ah" sounds in opposition...] This development was too rapid. Xiao Yunzhou listened with wide eyes, then heard his daughter''s sigh. [It seems this Duke of National Defense was well-prepared. He''s not a simple character.] [Oh my, Princess Ronghua, he''s indeed worthy of being the man you ship. So fierce, so decisive.] [It''s really worth shipping.] [I''m in love.] Even Liu Chaniang''s eyes sparkled, unable to resist shipping along with her daughter. Chapter 232 The Yuan Kingy paralyzed in bed, unable to speak. To make matters worse, his right hand was also immobilized due to a stroke. Suddenly rendered mute and unable to write, he could only make "ah" sounds in impotent rage. The King of Shu, who was temporarily in charge of the Yuan dynasty''s affairs, moved directly into the pce. To show respect for his royal brother, he took up residence in a secluded pce. However, during daily court sessions, the King of Shu was far from modest, already behaving like the new emperor! Soon, the coffins of three empresses were opened. The Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Punishment carefully examined them, and a terrifying silence fell. All three had died from poisoning! Especially the third empress, who had been fatally poisoned. Her body hadn''t fully dposed, with poison umted deep in her internal organs. When silver chopsticks were inserted into the empress''s throat and hot vinegar was used to fumigate her abdomen, within moments, a third of the chopsticks turned ck! Everyone fell silent. Anyone with even a little experience in examining corpses could confirm - the former empress had been poisoned and died an unnatural death! "Thoroughly investigate the empress''s poisoning case!" the King of Shu ordered sternly. Soon after the Yuan King''s "stroke", the truth gradually unraveled. All the imperial physicians who had treated the three empresses confessed. Themander of the imperial guard, hoping to curry favor with the new emperor, also revealed all of the Yuan King''s secrets. The entire Yuan dynasty court, both civil and military officials, felt as if they were in a dream. Everything was just as the celestial child had said! The Yuan King had deceived them all! "Thank you, celestial child, for appearing and warning us." "Thank you, celestial child, for enlightening us in our dreams!" "Thank you, celestial child, for bringing justice for my daughter!" All those who had dreamed chanted devoutly! [Oh, no need to thank me, I''m just a legend.] Xiao Chuchu smiled contentedly in the pce of Jing Country. [The Marquis of Zhenguo brought out the Empress Dowager and several royal uncles to reprimand the Yuan King on behalf of the ancestors.] [They wrote a self-usation edict for the Yuan King, and he abdicated to the King of Shu. The Yuan King will spend the rest of his life in the royal temple, copying sutras and chanting Buddhist scriptures.] [That''s basically house arrest, right?] Xiao Yunzhou nodded silently to himself. The others in Yuan seemed to still be clear-headed, not covering up the Yuan King''s evil deeds, and knew to rece him with a good emperor. [The Yuan King can''t speak and is frantically patting the bed, haha, he deserves it.] [The current empress and concubines in the Yuan King''s harem who are still alive have been granted mercy by the new emperor and sent home to remarry.] With this, the dramatic scandal finally came to an end. Xiao Yunzhou listened with lingering interest, taking a sip of tea from his cup, feeling a bit reluctant to let go. This exciting story was over, and he would miss the Yuan King. A few dayster, Xiao Yunzhou received confidential letters on his desk from his own spies, as well as from Chu Kingdom and Zhou Kingdom, all informing him of the news of the King of Shu''s ascension to the throne. Xiao Yunzhou instructed his Minister of Rites, "Although the new person is better than the old, we still needpensation for our previous war losses." The Minister of Rites also frowned, "We don''t know if this new emperor is a troublemaker. Our Jing Country isn''t afraid of them, but we can''t afford to fight every year." "Indeed, we finally have some silver in our national treasury, and we can''t spend it all on firearms," said Jiang Li, the Minister of Revenue, habitually crying poverty. "Your Majesty, should we send envoys to test the new emperor''s conduct?" Xiao Yunzhou nodded, it was necessary. But before he could speak, he heard his daughter''s thoughts. [I''ll go~ Tonight in my dream, I''ll see what kind of person this new Yuan emperor is.] Xiao Chuchu was still very interested in her dream-entering ability. One sentence raised Xiao Yunzhou''s concerns again. [If this King of Shu who took the throne is also a tyrant, I''ll send him a set of The Grudge plus The Ring!] Xiao Chuchu chuckled as she imagined. [By the way, Princess Ronghua has been having uneasy dreams these past two days. It seems the empress who left the pce has refused the Marquis of Zhenguo, feeling that her reputation has been damaged and she can''t marry such a world-famous general.] [Even the King of Shu doesn''t support this matter much. He talked to the Marquis of Zhenguo and said he''s willing to issue an imperial decree for any marriage the Marquis wants, except for this former empress.] [Eh, why is the King of Shu breaking up this pair of lovebirds?] Xiao Chuchu furrowed her brows, thinking, [This won''t do. I need to go into the King of Shu''s dream and guide him properly, let people have the freedom to love.] Xiao Yunzhou: "..." Now whenever he heard his daughter say "guide," he felt a bit nervous. Was it the same kind of guidance as with the Yuan King? Like a woman crawling out of a bronze mirror? Xiao Yunzhou didn''t know whether tough or cry. He hoped the new King of Shu would be more sensible and not end up like the Yuan King, frightened out of his wits by his daughter. Otherwise, just as Jing Country had sent out a group of envoys to meet the new Yuan emperor, they would soon have to send another! While Xiao Yunzhou was worrying, Shangguan Ming in the Yuan dynasty was also having a headache in court. "Chancellor, you don''t need to be considerate of me," the King of Shu, who had already ascended the throne as the new emperor, smiled at Shangguan Ming below during the morning court session. "Tell me frankly, how did you discover the evil deeds in my royal brother''s pce?" "You mentioned a celestial child entering dreams. Is this to humor me because I''m young, or do you think I can''t tolerate others and you''re afraid I''ll me you for investigating the emperor''s movements within the pce?" The King of Shu was too curious. How did Shangguan Ming discover the death of the former empress and the Yuan King''s secrets? And how did Shangguan Ming secretly notify all the officials and coordinate their actions in court right under the Yuan King''s nose? The King of Shu didn''t understand, "My royal brother was cautious and suspicious. How did the Chancellor manage to deceive him and gather all the officials to take action?" Shangguan Ming looked constipated. "Chancellor, don''t worry. Whatever spies you ced in the pce, let bygones be bygones. I won''t pursue the matter," the King of Shu said generously, showing his good temper. "Originally, the Chancellor and the Censorate have the right to advise and discipline me." "So, speak boldly. There''s no need to conceal anything." Shangguan Ming''s eyebrows were almost knitted together: "...Well, Your Majesty, it really was a celestial child..." "How is that possible?" The King of Shu scoffed, not believing it at all. Shangguan Ming looked around, hoping for someone toe to his aid. But everyone remained silent. They hadn''t dreamed of the celestial child again after that. It seemed the celestial being didn''t want to disturb them further. The Yuan King matter was settled, and from now on, they would have to rely on themselves. This was probably what the celestial child meant. All the officials who had dreamed of the celestial child thought so. Now that the King of Shu was asking, they didn''t dare to support Shangguan Ming''s im about the celestial child entering their dreams. After all, if the King of Shu wanted proof, they, as mere mortals, couldn''t conjure up a celestial child for the emperor! It was truly a difficult situation. Shangguan Ming also had no evidence and was at a loss. "I understand. If the Chancellor doesn''t want to say, then don''t. No need to keep fooling me," the King of Shu was a bit unhappy, but still mild-mannered, not pressing further. "Court dismissed." The King of Shu sighed and returned to the inner pce. Only then did hein to his childhoodpanion, a eunuch, "These old ministers still don''t trust me." "Talking about some celestial child! Do they think I''m a three-year-old?" "And the Marquis too, beauty should be paired with a hero, but he insists on marrying a controversial former empress as his main wife, who will be the subject of gossip among themon people," the King of Shu sighed. "It really puts me in a difficult position! Even if a celestial child came, I couldn''t agree to this." However, after lunch, the unhappy King of Shu took a nap and fell into a dream, only to open his eyes and find himself in a ce shrouded in clouds and mist. "Are you the new ruler of Yuan?" The King of Shu looked up and saw a celestial child sitting cross-legged on the clouds, eating grapes, looking like a figure from a New Year''s painting! "!" "!!" The King of Shu waspletely stunned. Chapter 233 "Immortal... immortal child..." The newly enthroned King of Shu was stunned. He gazed at the adorable, delicate immortal child above the clouds, instantly reminded of the dream the chancellor had mentioned! Could it be true that an immortal child had entered his dream to save Yuan Mu?! "Immortal child above, ept my bow!" The King of Shu immediately knelt in his dream, lifting the hem of his dragon robe. "Immortal child, you punish evil and save the world. I am eternally grateful!" Xiao Chuchu nodded to him, graciously epting his thanks. When others thanked her, she might feel undeserving, but this King of Shu, who had reced his royal brother, truly needed to thank her! If not for her painstaking efforts, entering the dreams of so many Yuan Mu officials, the King of Shu wouldn''t have be emperor so quickly! "Hmm." Xiao Chuchu watched the King of Shu kneel without asking him to rise. The King of Shu''s heart surged with emotion, his expression respectful. "Has the immortal child entered my dream to offer guidance? I will surely listen to your celestial words and follow them without fail!" Xiao Chuchu waved her hand, stopping the new emperor from making grand promises, and yed a video clip for him. The scene showed the Duke of National Defense lingering outside the Former Empress''s residence, sending people to propose marriage and deliver betrothal gifts. The King of Shu''s face turned red with embarrassment. Even the immortal child knew of this shameful matter? In terms of seniority, the Duke of National Defense was of the uncle''s generation to him and the Yuan King. For the Duke to propose to the Former Empress was a mismatch in generational status, improper by etiquette! Regardless of seniority, the Duke of National Defense was a important minister of the court. He should have properly married a wife of simr social standing. However, the Former Empress was the Yuan King''s fourth wife from his grand wedding. The King of Shu was too embarrassed to let themon people know of the Duke''s actions. After all, this was a scandal of the royal family. But who would have thought that even the immortal child knew about it! "Immortal child, I will surely speak clearly with the Duke of National Defense. We cannot allow such disorder¡ª" The King of Shu hadn''t finished speaking before he was interrupted. "If they are not of the same surname or n, and their hearts are in ord, what''s wrong with that?" The immortal child''s small brows were clearly furrowed. The King of Shu was taken aback. "If the man is unmarried and the woman is unwed, and they wish to share their lives, what''s wrong with that?" The immortal child set down the grapes in her hand with displeasure. The King of Shu broke out in a cold sweat in his dream. "Immortal child, do you mean... you want me to bring them together?" The immortal child fell silent but pursed her lips. "Your Yuan Mu mortal affairs are not my concern." A chill ran down the King of Shu''s spine. How foolish he was! He had displeased the immortal child! The immortal child had clearly asked what was wrong with it, yet he still didn''t believe her and had to question further. How could he be so stupid? So stupid that the immortal child spoke harshly, saying she wouldn''t concern herself with Yuan Mu''s affairs anymore! The King of Shu shuddered. "Immortal child, I know my error! I shouldn''t have held prejudice against the Former Empress. If not for my royal brother''s foolishness, she wouldn''t have ended up leaving the pce and returning to her maiden home." "At the root of it all, it is I and my royal brother who have wronged the Former Empress. It is the Yuan Mu Royal Family that has failed her." "To think I still held prejudice against her, believing she wasn''t worthy of the current Duke of National Defense. How foolish I''ve been!" The King of Shu looked at the immortal child, admitting his mistakes all at once. It wasn''t that he didn''t understand these principles before, but rather that he had the pride of royal and noble families in his bones, the pride of men being superior to women. But now, with the immortal child''s displeasure, the King of Shu instantly ''realized'' his error. "Hmm." The immortal child nodded with a stern face. The King of Shu wiped away his cold sweat. The immortal child had said she wouldn''t concern herself with Yuan Mu''s affairs, but look, he had done the right thing, and the immortal child was nodding at him frantically. The King of Shu let out a sigh of relief, a smile appearing on his face. "Yuan Mu currently faces several major difficulties," said Xiao Chuchu, disguised as the immortal child, looking sternly at the King of Shu. "First,nd taxes are too high, while grain production is rtively low." "Second, the legal system..." "Third, the army''s morale has been greatly damaged..." With each sentence she spoke, the King of Shu''s eyes grew wider. This truly was the immortal child helping Yuan Mu! The King of Shu''s eyes widened. "Immortal child, I beg for your guidance. How should Yuan Mu address these difficulties?" As soon as he finished speaking, he saw the immortal child frown. "Are you the emperor, or am I?" "If you seek my advice on everything, why does this world need you as its emperor?" The immortal child''s cold gaze and reproach struck like thunder! The King of Shu immediately broke out in a cold sweat, prostrating himself on the ground, not daring to raise his head! "Yes, yes, yes, the immortal child speaks truly¡ªI should reflect on myself, I should work hard, I cannot rely on immortals!" Xiao Chuchu, disguised as the immortal child, snorted and yed a second video. It was a scene of the people of Jing Country living in harmony. The King of Shu watched with wide eyes. He saw in the immortal child''s palm a miniature version of the ''Capital City of Jing Country gate'', with peopleing and going... But the King of Shu was certain he had never been to the capital of Jing Country. Yet now, he saw this unfamiliar bustling city gate in the immortal child''s palm. Just as the King of Shu was about to look closer, the image in the immortal child''s palm dissolved into nothingness, disappearing in an instant. The King of Shu was taken aback. What did the immortal child mean by this? He was about to ask but stopped himself, remembering the immortal child''s rebuke for not thinking and relying entirely on her. The King of Shu immediately began to ponder hard. Earlier, when he had asked the immortal child how to solve Yuan Mu''s major problems, she hadn''t answered but instead showed him the city gate of Jing Country. What did this mean? Twenty-some days ago, Yuan had attacked Jing and suffered a great defeat! Surely the immortal child couldn''t be telling him to attack Jing Country again? The King of Shu was a clever man. Seeing the faint coldness in the immortal child''s eyes, he suddenly had an epiphany. "Immortal child, do you mean for us to apologize and make reparations to Jing Country, to renew our old friendship?" As soon as the King of Shu said this, he saw the corners of the immortal child''s mouth lift slightly, as if in approval. He had guessed correctly! The King of Shu was overjoyed. Amidst a celestial melody, the delicate figure of the immortal child before him gradually faded into a ghostly image, drifting away with the wind. "Divination dispels disaster, doctors celebrate peaceful pulses." The immortal child''s celestial voice seemed to linger in the King of Shu''s ears. "You must remember this." King of Shu: "!" Divination dispels disaster, doctors celebrate peaceful pulses? Does it mean that disasters will disperse, and all will be peaceful and harmonious? Is the secret to Yuan Mu''s prosperity peace and harmony, not fighting and killing? The King of Shu''s eyes widened, feeling he had understood. The immortal child opposes war! ... [Whoa, at the crucial moment, I was almost stumped by the King of Shu''s question. How would I know how to develop their Yuan Mu country?] [Luckily, I managed to bluff my way through using the words my father usually uses to scold his officials~] Xiao Chuchu stretchedzily on the small bed beside Xiao Yunzhou''s desk. [Whenever my father doesn''t know how to answer the ministers'' questions, he scolds them.] [He says, ''If I have to think of everything, I might as well not be emperor. I should just do the job of all the civil and military officials!'' Haha, I''ve learned my father''s tactics!] [In the future, when I encounter something I don''t know, I''ll just rebuke people like this.] Xiao Yunzhou listened from the side, his mouth twitching, deeply introspective. [This should work, right? The King of Shu won''t attack our Jing Country again, right?] Xiao Chuchu pondered, soon feeling reassured enough to yawn and close her eyes. Xiao Yunzhou was moved. Little princess, you''ve brought at least ten years of peace to Jing Country! "Summon the Minister of Rites!" "I want to hold a grand celebration for the little princess''s first birthday!" "And the Ministry of Works, have they prepared all the items for the little princess''s ''Grabbing Ceremony''?" Xiao Yunzhou felt he must give the child the very best. Otherwise, how could Jing Country repay her? As Xiao Yunzhou busied himself with arranging a grand first birthday celebration for Chuchu and deciding which officials would attend, the King of Shu was also bing busy. The next day, when the King of Shu woke from his sleep, his first thought was whether his dream had been influenced by his daytime thoughts. Could the immortal child be a figment of his imagination, born from hearing too much of the chancellor''s talk? But by the time of the morning court session, the King of Shu was shocked! "Your Majesty, this old minister has listed the current major issues facing our Yuan Mu," Chancellor Shangguan Ming stepped forward, presenting a memorial and looking at the King of Shu. "First,nd taxes are too high, while grain production is rtively low." "Second, the legal system..." "Third, the army''s morale has been greatly damaged..." As the King of Shu listened to these words, identical to those spoken by the immortal child inst night''s dream, his back was instantly drenched in sweat. It was true, the immortal child was real! Only an immortal child could foresee the events of the next day! Chapter 234 On that day, the King of Shu had someone inform the Duke of National Defense that as long as he and the Former Empress were in love, he would grant them marriage, but they must never force the Former Empress. The King of Shu carefully remembered the teachings of the fairy child in his dream, "To share weal and woe, to be in love, what''s wrong with that?" The implication was that without feelings, it would be absolutely impossible. The King of Shu now hadplete faith in the fairy child from his dream. Not only was the memorial submitted by the chancellor exactly what the fairy child had told him in his dream the night before. Another more frightening thing was that he had never been to the capital of Jing Country, but the image of the city gate of Jing Country''s capital that the fairy child showed him in the dream was identical to the painting of Jing Country he found after waking up. This proved that the fairy child had truly descended into his dream! It wasn''t something he had imagined himself. The King of Shu thought of the displeased look on the fairy child''s face in the dream and felt a chill run down his spine, "Someone, summon the envoy immediately to go to Jing Country and apologize!" ... In Jing Country, the Little Princess''s first birthday feast was celebrated nationwide. Not only did The Emperor Xiao Yunzhou, the Empress Dowager, and all the civil and military officials prepare gifts for the Little Princess, but even Zhou Xing, Wu Yun, Chu State, and Shu Kingdom sent envoys to congratte the Little Princess. These envoys were also quite high-ranking. The semi-retired King of Chu, having handed over state affairs to Princess Yunwu, had been lingering in Jing Country and hadn''t left, just in time to participate in the first birthday feast. Simrly, King Zhou Ling had alsoe, leaving the Crown Prince to oversee state affairs, and he came to Jing Country to hear the unfinished story of "The First Immortal Lord." There was also Khan Wu Yun, who called Xiao Yunzhou his brother, who had alsoe from afar. The King of Shu from Shu Kingdom, disguised himself, intending to pose as an ordinary envoy, but upon seeing the four kings gathered together, his back was almost soaked with sweat. "Jing has an immeasurable future," said the King of Shu. His words and actions were recorded by the apanying attendant, to be included in the future history of Shu Kingdom. "My elder brother''s previous attack on Jing was extremely unwise." "Our Shu Kingdom should join with all countries to create a peaceful and harmonious world." The alliance of five countries, the joint efforts of five kings, was unbreakable. "Where''s the Little Princess? It''s time for her to pick objects for her future," Xiao Yunzhou didn''t have much mood to exchange pleasantries with the kings of various countries today. On the Little Princess''s birthday, he only thought about his fairy-like daughter. Xiao Yunzhou had just been distracted by the King of Chu for a moment, and when he turned his head and couldn''t see the Little Princess, he anxiously looked for his daughter. Except for the King of Shu, the other kings were used to his doting behavior towards his daughter. Only the King of Shu was curious about Xiao Yunzhou''s beloved young daughter. He had thought it was because the girl''s mother was noble, and wanted to see how beautiful the Little Princess''s birth mother was. But when he saw Concubine Liue out holding the adorable Little Princess in a pink jacket, he was stunned. The young girl in this beautiful woman''s arms had eyebrows and eyes like a painting, red lips and white teeth, delicate features, and seemed somehow familiar. The King of Shu almost impulsively fell to his knees! This... this Little Princess of Jing Country looked a bit like the fairy child in his dream! Except that the fairy child in the dream was five or six years old, while this Little Princess of Jing Country was just one year old! The King of Shu opened his mouth, unable to utter a word for a long time. Until he heard the King of Chu say beside him, "Xiao Yunzhou, is your Little Princess blessed with a fortunate fate? Since her birth, Jing Country has been prospering day by day, and the entire country''s atmosphere has changed anew." The King of Shu heard this and felt as if he had been enlightened! A fortunate fate... With eyes simr to the fairy child in his dream, wasn''t this indeed a great fortunate fate! "I didn''t bring any valuable items, but this jade pendant with dragon and phoenix designs was given to me by my grandfather. Today, I will pass it on to the Little Princess." The King of Shu pushed aside the King of Chu next to him, disregarding etiquette, and took off the precious jade pendant he had worn for many years to give to Xiao Chuchu. [Huh?] [Oh my, did the King of Shu recognize me?] Xiao Chuchu, in Liu Chaniang''s arms, blinked at the excited King of Shu. [Fortunately, when I entered the dream, I added quite a few beauty filters to myself, so the King of Shu probably just thinks I look simr.] Xiao Chuchu blinked her almond eyes at the King of Shu, and the King of Shu felt his heart melt. The fairy child... no, the fortunate child who resembled the fairy child, had looked at him. The King of Shu became excited at once, "May I hold the Little Princess?" "No, you may not." Xiao Yunzhou rolled his eyes and kept him at a distance. "..." The King of Shu was speechless. Xiao Yunzhou coughed lightly, "It''s time for her to pick objects for her future, please." What a joke, trying to steal his daughter, dream on! Xiao Yunzhou took Xiao Chuchu from Liu Chaniang''s arms, avoiding the intense gazes of the King of Shu, King of Chu, and others, and finally ced Chuchu on the silk-covered long couch for the object-picking ceremony. On this couch were precious items sent by civil and military officials, such as Chancellor Fu Cha, the Top Scorer of the Imperial Examination, the Duke of Dingguo, and the Imperial Academy of Medicine, including official seals, writing brushes, ink stones, and inksticks. There were also some items from the imperial harem, such as books, wooden swords, needlework, and rouge sent by the Empress Dowager, the Fifth Prince, and the Eldest Prince. There were also exquisite clothes and jade horses sent by neighboring countries. Xiao Yunzhou smiled and patted his daughter''s head, "Pick whatever you like." Xiao Chuchu looked at him, then at Liu Chaniang and her Fifth Brother the Crown Prince, and then nced around at the officials, hesitating. [Who put that first-rank official seal there? I don''t want to be an official, it''s too tiring.] [Brush, ink, inkstone, and paper... Well, I''ve had enough of nine years ofpulsory education and college entrance exams. I don''t want to take the imperial exams again, nor do I want to study for another nine years.] Xiao Chuchu looked along the items, rejecting each one. [Practicing martial arts with a wooden sword would hurt my hands.] [I''m not good at needlework and embroidery, it tires my eyes.] [This rouge isn''t as good as modern cosmetics. It''s just average.] [I already have clothes, and I don''t want to pick the little horse either.] Xiao Chuchu crawled along, and suddenly there was one item she wanted to pick. The spectators at the first birthday feast went from watching for fun to bing nervous. "This jadeb is nice,e to your royal grandmother, dear~" The Empress Dowager was anxious. She didn''t expect the Little Princess to excel in both civil and military affairs, but she couldn''t not pick anything at all. After all, this object-picking ceremony was a good omen. "There''s also this little spinning wheel, look~ Come to your royal grandmother and take it, alright?" Xiao Chuchu nced at it and then turned her head away. The Empress Dowager broke out in a cold sweat, and the surrounding spectators became nervous. Xiao Yunzhou, who could hear his daughter''s thoughts, was even more worried. His daughter didn''t like anything, what should they do? But just when everyone thought the object-picking ceremony was going to fail and they were preparing to think of an auspicious phrase to get through it, Xiao Chuchu stopped. She stopped in front of a small golden bowl. [I''ve already collected almost all of the 108 elite profiles.] [Talented people who are favorable to our Jing Country are spread across the five countries.] [If everyone works together to govern the world, how can the world not be at peace?] [I''ve exchanged so much modern technology, everyone''s lives will be more and more prosperous.] [My Fifth Brother will ascend to the throne in the future and take care of me, there won''t be any problems.] [It''s time for me to retire.] Xiao Yunzhou listened to his daughter''s words and his eyes widened. What? Retire? She''s only one year old... Xiao Yunzhou''s mouth twitched. But he couldn''t argue. Yes, his fairy-like daughter had already done so much, should the world continue to rely on her, a young child? Did they, the five kings, crown princes, princesses, officials, andmon people of the five countries, not have any ability themselves? Xiao Yunzhou saw Chuchu with a face of contentment, hugging the small golden bowl in her arms, about to lie down¡ª Xiao Yunzhou finally smiled and said, "Good!" "Our Little Princess has picked the small golden bowl." "Blessings umted in the previous life, a life without worries in this one!" "May Jing Country be peaceful and prosperous, with fine clothes and good food for all!" The King of Shu, King of Chu, and others exchanged nces, andughed heartily along with the civil and military officials of Jing Country. "The Little Princess is a person of fortunate fate, born with a golden bowl in her arms!" "Henceforth, the world will surely enter an era of peace and prosperity!" The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!