Destined

These words made Liao Yanli's expression turn rather unpleasant. Stiff-faced, he said, "Minister Gu, although this plan is quite costly, it's a project for the next century—it's bound to require significant funds. The Ministry of Works provides the plan, while the funding issue is something you, Minister Gu, should resolve. All your arguments boil down to the Ministry of Revenue's current inability to handle this matter. If every ministry's proposal can be dismissed with a simple 'no money' from the Ministry of Revenue, what can Great Xia possibly accomplish? Doing nothing would indeed be the most cost-effective approach. In Minister Gu's eyes, money seems to outweigh human lives—how could lives ever compare to money?"

With this heavy accusation laid out, Liao Yanli felt somewhat vindicated. In arguments, securing the moral high ground was crucial. No matter how Gu Jiusi responded afterward, as long as he was questioned about whether he had considered the people of the Yellow River, Gu Jiusi would lose.

Liao Yanli waited for Gu Jiusi's reply, but Gu Jiusi remained silent upon hearing this.

He understood clearly that if he took responsibility for this matter, any future issues with the Yellow River would fall on his shoulders. Yet if he didn't intervene, such a massive expenditure was bound to lead to chaos.

Luo Zishang had handed him a difficult problem, one he couldn't refuse.

What could he do?

Gu Jiusi pondered how to persuade the emperor to reject this proposal but felt he couldn't speak carelessly. After thinking for a long time, for some reason, Liu Yu Ru suddenly came to his mind.

What would Liu Yu Ru do in this situation?

She had never been one to focus solely on cutting costs; she always believed that increasing revenue was more important than reducing expenditure. Her businesses required money, yet she always found a way to obtain it. If this matter couldn't be refused, where could he get the funds?

Gu Jiusi quickly ran through many people in his mind and suddenly realized something.

Who was the wealthiest person at present?

Back when Wang Shanquan was short on funds, he had targeted the Gu Family. Now that Great Xia was in need of money, the wealthiest individual should be Luo Zishang, who governed Yangzhou!

In the past, out of consideration for Yangzhou's stability, no one would dare trouble Luo Zishang lightly. But the situation was different now—Luo Zishang was vying for the emperor's trust. Since Luo Zishang had proposed the plan, he should be the one to provide the funds. If Luo Zishang refused, the emperor would never trust him again. Even if Gu Jiusi ultimately failed to secure the money, Luo Zishang would share half the blame.

If Luo Zishang was willing to provide the funds, that would be even better.

As Gu Jiusi thought this, he couldn't help but slowly smile.

He looked up at Liao Yanli, his gem-like eyes carrying a hint of coldness, and said calmly, "Minister Liao, according to what you've said, does the Ministry of Works truly have no alternative for the Yellow River matter?"

"None!" Liao Yanli retorted angrily, his neck stiff. "The Yellow River floods concern millions of people—human lives are at stake! We cannot compromise even slightly to save money!"

"Minister Liao speaks wisely."

Gu Jiusi nodded in agreement, then added, "Might I ask, Minister Liao, who proposed this plan?"

"Naturally, it was a collective decision by the Ministry of Works."

"Then who is in charge of it?"

"Why do you ask?" Liao Yanli responded warily. "Looking for someone to blame?"

"Minister Liao misunderstands," Gu Jiusi said with a light laugh. "I have no objections to this plan, but there are some details regarding the expenses I'd like to inquire about. Whom should I approach?"

Gu Jiusi's attitude was composed, as if he had genuinely accepted the proposal, which made Liao Yanli feel somewhat uneasy for a moment.Everyone understood that while this plan was good in theory, it would exhaust the people and drain the treasury—an immense burden for the newly established Great Xia. If successfully implemented, it would indeed be a project for the centuries, but who could guarantee that Great Xia would last even a few hundred years?

Liao Yanli had originally intended for Gu Jiusi to propose scrapping the plan, so that any public resentment or future issues with the Yellow River would fall on Gu Jiusi’s shoulders. To his surprise, Gu Jiusi agreed without hesitation, leaving Liao Yanli somewhat worried: Who would foot such a massive bill?

"Lord Liao?" Gu Jiusi repeated when Liao Yanli didn’t respond, "Which official drafted this proposal?"

Seeing Gu Jiusi readily agree, Fan Xuan felt it inappropriate to dissuade him in front of Liao Yanli, so he cleared his throat and said, "Let it be so."

With that, Fan Xuan dismissed Liao Yanli. Afterward, he remained seated, hesitating for a moment before speaking slowly, "Jiusi, young people shouldn’t be too impulsive."

Gu Jiusi smiled faintly. "Your Majesty, I understand your concern. But the Yellow River issue must be resolved. The Ministry of Works has proposed a solution—the only obstacle is funding, and we must provide it."

"Last time you audited the national treasury, there were fifty million taels remaining, correct?"

Fan Xuan’s question was met with Gu Jiusi’s confirmation: "Yes."

Originally, the treasury had held less than thirty million taels. But after Lu Yong agreed to return embezzled funds, others involved in the treasury silver case followed suit, and several officials’ properties were confiscated during the Liu Chun case, the treasury suddenly swelled to nearly fifty million taels. While this sum was substantial, demands for spending were everywhere, making it feel stretched thin.

Fan Xuan hesitated. "According to the Ministry of Works’ plan, the entire Yellow River project will cost nearly ten million taels. Isn’t that too much?"

"Your Majesty, I will find a way," Gu Jiusi replied solemnly. "If you grant me one request."

"Oh?"

"I plan to seek funds from Yangzhou."

These words stunned Fan Xuan. Gu Jiusi continued calmly, "Your Majesty, rumors about the Yellow River’s impending floods have spread widely among the people. Now that the Ministry of Works has proposed a solution, if I don’t follow through and the Yellow River does flood, public outrage will surge. The people will blame Your Majesty."

Natural disasters were already devastating for any ruler, and mishandling them would inevitably lead to consequences far beyond the flood itself.

Seeing Fan Xuan’s expression grow stern, Gu Jiusi knew he had his attention. He pressed on, "Your Majesty, in recent years, while the rest of the land has been unstable, Yangzhou alone has remained relatively peaceful, with only minor internal conflicts. Since the Yellow River needs repair, it’s only reasonable for Yangzhou to contribute. Firstly, Yangzhou is now part of Great Xia, so its treasury funds rightfully belong to the state—their contribution is justified. Secondly, besides the common people, Yangzhou’s merchants stand to benefit the most from the Yellow River’s restoration. Proper repairs would allow Yangzhou merchants to use the river for trade into Sizhou, which would also benefit Yangzhou."

Fan Xuan remained silent, and Gu Jiusi said no more. After a long pause, Fan Xuan said, "Let me think on this."

Gu Jiusi acknowledged and was dismissed.That evening, when Gu Jiusi returned home in high spirits, Liu Yu Ru couldn't help but smile at his expression. "You seem very pleased. What has you so happy?"

"I was just worrying about where to get the funds for repairing the Yellow River," Gu Jiusi said cheerfully as he sat behind Liu Yu Ru and began massaging her shoulders. "Then Luo Zishang delivered himself right to my doorstep."

"Hmm?"

Liu Yu Ru raised an eyebrow in curiosity. Just as she was about to ask more, Gu Jiusi recounted the events of the day.

"I was originally concerned that if their Yellow River repair plan required a moderate amount of money, we'd have to provide it. But then I'd have to figure out how to scrimp and save for other expenses. Then Luo Zishang pulled this stunt—ten million! Unless I resort to robbery, there's absolutely no way I'm paying that amount!"

"But," Liu Yu Ru pondered, "if he goes back now to revise the plan and submits one with moderate costs, you might still end up having to pay."

"He won't," Gu Jiusi chuckled reassuringly. Leaning back against Liu Yu Ru's lap and closing his eyes, he continued, "Liao Yanli praised this plan to the skies while pressuring me to fund it. If Luo Zishang were to submit a budget-friendly version now, what do you think His Majesty would conclude?"

"At this point, if he doesn't provide the funds, his facade before His Majesty will crumble, and the emperor will inevitably deal with him. If he submits a cheaper plan, it would be worse than offering nothing—all effort with no reward, and His Majesty would surely realize he's using the Yellow River matter to make things difficult for me. Why do you think he took on this troublesome project? To build his reputation. If the funds fall through and ruin his plans, he'll be choking on his frustration."

"So," Gu Jiusi said triumphantly, "today's ten million is definitely coming from his pocket."

Seeing Gu Jiusi so delighted, Liu Yu Ru pressed her lips together in a smile. She reached out and tapped his forehead lightly. "Don't get too carried away. He's clever—he probably has backup plans."

"Not to worry," Gu Jiusi waved dismissively. "He's no match for me."

"Yu Ru," Gu Jiusi suddenly remembered, "my crowning ceremony is in seven days. Have you decided on my gift?"

Liu Yu Ru paused briefly, then blushed and whispered, "It's ready."

Hearing that she had indeed prepared a gift, Gu Jiusi brightened immediately. Without asking what it was, he took her hand and said, "Since you've prepared a gift for me, I've also prepared one for you this Qixi Festival."

"Oh?" Liu Yu Ru looked up at him. "There's a gift for Qixi too?"

"Of course there is."

Propping his chin on his hand as he lay on the floor gazing at her, Gu Jiusi explained, "Gifts are for New Year's and holidays, and especially for days like Qixi. Yu Ru," he added, his eyes softening with regret as he cupped her cheek, his lips curving into a bittersweet smile, "since you married me, your life has been anything but peaceful. You've endured so much hardship."

Liu Yu Ru laughed at this. "I don't feel it's been hard."

She clasped his hand in both of hers and said tenderly, "It's strange, but as long as I'm with you, nothing feels difficult."

After this conversation with Liu Yu Ru, the following day the emperor approved the Ministry of Works' plan and assigned Gu Jiusi and Luo Zishang to jointly oversee the project, with all expenditures to be managed by Gu Jiusi.The matter was announced in court that day. As soon as they stepped out of the main hall, Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming rushed over, not minding that Jiang He was still nearby. Ye Shi'an urgently asked, "Jiusi, did you know about this?"

Gu Jiusi blinked and nodded, "Yes, I did."

"Then why didn't you refuse it?"

Ye Shi'an immediately grew anxious, "How can the Ministry of Revenue come up with the funds for Luo Zishang's proposal? If the Ministry of Revenue can't provide the money, any problems will fall on you."

"That's right, that's right," Shen Ming chimed in anxiously, "He's clearly finding a way to trap you."

"No matter," Gu Jiusi smiled and turned to look at Jiang He standing nearby, "Isn't there still Uncle?"

"Hmm?" Jiang He glanced over, "Minister Gu, this matter is your responsibility. I am merely a Vice Minister, hardly capable of such a great task."

"Uncle, you're too modest," Gu Jiusi quickly replied, "You've navigated the official circles for over twenty years. This matter won't trouble you."

"It will trouble me," Jiang He nodded, "It's too difficult. I must hurry back to sleep. Little Jiusi," he tapped Gu Jiusi's shoulder with his court tablet, "Perform well. His Majesty is watching."

After saying this, Jiang He yawned and left.

Once Jiang He was gone, Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming looked at Gu Jiusi. Holding his court tablet, Gu Jiusi sighed and said, "If Uncle won't help me, there's nothing I can do. Come on, let's go pay a visit to the Luo residence."

"Huh?"

"What for?"

Shen Ming and Ye Shi'an asked simultaneously. Gu Jiusi spread his hands, "To ask for money."

Hearing this, both Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming were stunned. Gu Jiusi, however, started walking ahead first. After a moment, Ye Shi'an suddenly realized, "You're going to ask Luo Zishang for money? Did His Majesty permit it?"

"Would I dare to ask for money without His Majesty's permission?"

Gu Jiusi said calmly, "Let's go."

With that, the three of them went straight to the Luo residence. When Luo Zishang received the visiting card, he was taken aback and couldn't help but mutter, "What is he here for?"

"Probably to discuss the Yellow River Renovation with you," the guard beside him said with a smile, "You've given him such a big problem. He must be overwhelmed now."

Hearing this, Luo Zishang couldn't bring himself to smile.

If Gu Jiusi had argued fiercely with Liao Yanli, that would indeed mean he was overwhelmed. But Gu Jiusi had accepted it so readily, which instead made Luo Zishang somewhat uneasy. Now that Gu Jiusi had appeared at his doorstep, Luo Zishang felt even more unsettled.

Nevertheless, he had Gu Jiusi invited into the courtyard and gestured for him to sit opposite him at the chess table. Gu Jiusi, accompanied by Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming, sat across from Luo Zishang with an imposing presence.

Luo Zishang had tea served and smiled, "May I ask what brings Minister Gu to my residence today?"

Gu Jiusi didn't speak but stretched out his fair hand.

Luo Zishang looked puzzled and made a questioning sound, "Hmm?"

Growing impatient, Gu Jiusi said directly, "Give me the money."

"What does Minister Gu mean?"

"Let's speak frankly," Gu Jiusi said bluntly, "Renovating the Yellow River is no problem. I fully support your proposal, but the national treasury has no money. Ten million taels—get it from Yangzhou."

Luo Zishang was stunned. After a moment, he chuckled softly, "Minister Gu, you must be joking. I am merely a Vice Minister of Works. How could I possibly extract money from Yangzhou?"

"Lord Luo, why bother?"Gu Jiusi sighed, "What era is this already? Is there any point in still pretending to be the big shot? You had people spread rumors about the Yellow River everywhere, and now you come up with this century-long grand plan for its restoration—all just to squeeze money out of me. Money is the hardest part of this matter. If I can produce it, you'll take credit for restoring the Yellow River, and if His Majesty ever tries to move against you, he'll have to consider public opinion. If I can't come up with the money, then it's the Ministry of Revenue's incompetence. This move of yours is clearly targeting me. Don't play dumb—restoring the Yellow River benefits your reputation and facilitates trade in Yangzhou. If you provide the funds, it's a very good deal for you."

"Lord Gu seems to have many misunderstandings about me."

Luo Zishang smiled faintly. "I proposed this plan simply because I believe it is a good one. It was selected through a joint resolution by the entire Ministry of Works, not specifically crafted to target you."

As he spoke, Luo Zishang poured tea for Gu Jiusi and said respectfully, "Moreover, Yangzhou is under Young Master Wang's jurisdiction. I was merely his former strategist. Now that I am in the Eastern Capital, serving as His Majesty's subject, how could I possibly extract ten million from Yangzhou? I can try, but whether the money can be secured is not up to me."

"Are you evading responsibility, Lord Luo?"

"Lord Gu, do not push others too far."

Luo Zishang and Gu Jiusi locked eyes. After a moment, Gu Jiusi chuckled lightly and said, "Lord Luo, I advise you to provide the money now and avoid making this too ugly."

"It's not that I don't want to give it," Luo Zishang frowned, "but I truly cannot."

"Fine." Gu Jiusi nodded and stood up. "I understand. Lord Luo, from now on, I will come to your door every day to demand the money. I will definitely get those ten million. You just wait."

"Lord Gu," Luo Zishang sighed, "why must it be this way? If the Ministry of Revenue truly lacks funds, why insist on this plan? The Ministry of Works has other proposals. Did Lord Liao not present them all to you?"

"Human lives are at stake! How can money be more important than lives? The Yellow River matter must be handled with the utmost care. We cannot choose a subpar plan just to save money. We cannot allow a single breach in the Yellow River, let a single acre of fertile land be flooded and destroyed, or allow even one commoner to lose their life, become displaced, or suffer the destruction of their family!"

After this high-sounding speech, Luo Zishang's smile began to falter. He forced a reply, "Lord Gu speaks most rightly."

"So, when will the money from Yangzhou arrive?"

"I've said..."

"The Yellow River matter brooks no delay. As soon as the funds arrive, we can begin work immediately."

"Lord Gu..."

"Ten million," Gu Jiusi leaned in close to Luo Zishang, grabbing his wrist, and spoke quickly in a sincere, almost pleading tone, "Lord Luo, just ten million can save the people and rescue the masses! Yangzhou is so wealthy—how can you be so heartless!"

"Lord Gu!"

Luo Zishang finally lost his temper and said angrily, "I can try to put in a good word with Young Master Wang about the money, but Yangzhou is not mine! Lord Gu, stop being so unreasonable and pressuring me like this!"As he spoke, Luo Zishang tried to shake off Gu Jiusi's hand, but Gu Jiusi's grip was incredibly strong. Clutching Luo Zishang's wrist tightly, he pressed on, "Lord Luo, don't be so unreasonable. What did you tell the Emperor when you first came to the Eastern Capital? If Yangzhou weren't actually under your control, how could a strategist like you, with no qualifications, become the Crown Prince's Imperial Tutor and then the Vice Minister of Works? Everyone knows about your relationship with the Wang family. I've heard that you and Young Master Wang have some... ambiguous ties..."

"Gu Jiusi!"

Luo Zishang was utterly enraged by such remarks. He had never encountered such shameless, persistent pestering. Using all his strength, he shoved Gu Jiusi away and roared, "Are you here to cause trouble in my residence? If the Ministry of Revenue needs money, go to Yangzhou and ask Young Master Wang for it! I'm telling you, you won't get a single coin from me. Get out!"

With that, Luo Zishang turned to leave and ordered the guards beside him, "See him out."

Gu Jiusi wasn't about to let Luo Zishang leave so easily. He hurried after him, urgently saying, "Lord Luo, don't go! We can still discuss this ten million..."

"Lord Gu," one of Luo Zishang's guards stepped between them, blocking Gu Jiusi's path, "It's time for you to leave."

"Luo Zishang!"

Gu Jiusi tried to bypass the guard to grab Luo Zishang, but the guard suddenly struck out, throwing a punch at him.

Seeing the guard take action, Shen Ming couldn't stand by. He immediately intervened, and the three of them quickly became embroiled in a brawl with Luo Zishang's guards.

Furious with Gu Jiusi, Luo Zishang instructed his steward, "Throw them out," before heading straight to his room.

Gu Jiusi, Shen Ming, and Ye Shi'an were chased around the courtyard in disarray. Luo Zishang's residence was clearly filled with hidden talents—many martial arts experts emerged. After a prolonged battle of attrition, the three were exhausted and finally gave up resisting. The guards seized them, carried them to the gate, flung the doors open, and unceremoniously tossed them out before slamming the gates shut with a resounding "bang."

The three landed face-first in the dirt outside the Luo residence, none of them wanting to move, afraid to lift their heads and be recognized.

But a crowd had already gathered around, pointing and murmuring at the three men in official robes. After a moment, Gu Jiusi finally abandoned his pride. He lifted his head, pushed himself up, and simply sat cross-legged in front of the Luo residence, shouting loudly, "Luo Zishang, I'm telling you, if you don't give the money to repair the Yellow River today, I'm not leaving!"

"Luo Zishang, we're both from Yangzhou, and I know your background all too well, you little scoundrel! You started as a sycophantic strategist by Wang Shanquan's side, buttering up the entire Wang family until they were eating out of your hand. In Yangzhou, you oppressed the people, extorted wealth, engaged in corruption and abuse of power, lining your own pockets until you were filthy rich. When conflict broke out, you came to the Eastern Capital to find a powerful backer. Everyone says the Wang family runs Yangzhou, but it's really you pulling the strings! Who in the entire Yangzhou officialdom isn't your lackey?! If it weren't for that, with no scholarly honors or merits to your name, how could you have become the Crown Prince's Imperial Tutor as soon as you arrived in the Eastern Capital? If not by relying on Yangzhou, what did you rely on? That pretty-boy face of yours?!"Gu Jiusi sat at the entrance, carrying on like a market shrew as he recounted all the things Luo Zishang had done in Yangzhou. Those nearby, hearing his words, gathered around to listen. Gu Jiusi described everything so vividly that the onlookers were utterly captivated.

While Gu Jiusi was spouting nonsense outside, the Luo residence guards overheard snippets from inside. One of them hurried to report to Luo Zishang, saying, "Master, Gu Jiusi is sitting outside spinning tales about you. What should we do?"

Luo Zishang propped his forehead in his hand, looking pained as he asked, "What kind of stories is he telling?"

"They're all... all improper and unreliable nonsense."

The guard said somewhat awkwardly, "He's talking about your affairs in Yangzhou. He didn't state it directly, but now the commoners are speculating, guessing that the young master..."

"What about the young master?"

Luo Zishang looked up, his voice cold as he inquired. The guard closed his eyes and said bluntly, "They're saying the young master is your illegitimate son!"

"Outrageous!"

Luo Zishang abruptly stood up, so furious that he kicked over the table in front of him, and roared, "Vulgar! Shameless! Utterly despicable!"

Luo Zishang knew he couldn't let Gu Jiusi continue spouting such nonsense. He stood up and rushed out with his men.

As soon as he opened the door, he saw Gu Jiusi sitting cross-legged at the entrance. Gu Jiusi's face was bruised, his clothes disheveled, and his hair messy, yet he sat there with such ease and openness that he exuded an air of heroic nonchalance, as if the world itself were his banquet mat.

In front of him was a cup of water, clearly brought by someone. The commoners had formed a dense crowd around him, three layers deep. Shen Ming and Ye Shi'an stood awkwardly under a willow tree to the side, evidently unwilling to be associated with Gu Jiusi at that moment.

Gu Jiusi was still spouting nonsense inside. Luo Zishang ordered his men to part the crowd and, suppressing his emotions, walked over to Gu Jiusi. He forced a smile and said, "Lord Gu, even if you and I have had a conflict, there's no need to degrade yourself by slandering me here. Why not return home early? If there's anything to discuss, we can talk about it at court tomorrow."

Hearing this, Gu Jiusi looked up at Luo Zishang and said, "Is this land yours?"

Luo Zishang's face stiffened. A guard beside him immediately retorted, "Even if it's not ours, you're slandering the young master, and that's wrong."

"Slandering him? Did I not tell everyone that these things might not be true?"

"You did," the crowd answered in unison, their eyes shining as they looked at Gu Jiusi.

Gu Jiusi continued, "Did I not tell everyone not to believe it?"

"You did," the crowd replied again.

Gu Jiusi pressed on, "Does telling a story count as slander?"

"No, it doesn," the crowd responded. Then, a child whispered, "Lord Gu, are you going to continue the story?"

Gu Jiusi chuckled at this, coughing lightly with some delight. He turned to Luo Zishang and said, "Lord Luo, you see? I'm not slandering you. I'm just telling stories, and no one takes them seriously. Rest assured. I've discovered a new talent and hobby of mine. I find the commoners at your doorstep to be very sincere, and we share common interests. My main purpose here is to demand the Yellow River renovation funds from you. For every day you delay, I'll come here one more day to chat with the people. Isn't that right?"

Gu Jiusi looked at the crowd, spreading his hands and waving. "Give me some applause."

The crowd, never one to shy away from stirring up trouble, quickly broke into applause. Amid the clapping, Gu Jiusi turned to Luo Zishang and said, "Lord Luo, I advise you not to struggle anymore. Just pay up. The Yellow River matter can't be delayed—it's a matter of life and death. Whether you delay now or later, the money has to be paid eventually. Better to face it sooner rather than later. Why make things difficult for us?"

"Exactly," a commoner chimed in. "Lord Luo, we've all understood now. Yangzhou has money, and the national treasury is empty. The Yellow River must be repaired. Please, have some mercy and let Yangzhou provide the funds."

"I have no money!" Luo Zishang suppressed his temper and said with restraint. "Everyone, don't listen to his nonsense. I'm merely a Vice Minister of Works. How could I possibly get money from Yangzhou?""Then you should go find Madam Ji," a commoner immediately said, "or that Young Master Wang. You and Young Master Wang, uh..."

"Impudence!"

The guards nearby shouted angrily. Luo Zishang knew it was impossible to explain clearly.

In this world, rumors always spread faster than the truth, especially those involving romantic affairs. No one wanted to investigate the truth, and in fact, his assistance to Madam Ji did involve some personal connections—just not the kind these commoners imagined. But would these commoners believe his words?

They had already been incited by Gu Jiusi and were only waiting to watch the spectacle.

Luo Zishang felt a headache coming on. He raised his hand to rub his forehead and finally said, "Lord Gu, let's discuss this matter tomorrow. You are a third-rank official after all. Sitting at the doorstep like this is unbecoming."

As soon as he finished speaking, a surprised voice came from the crowd: "Husband?"

Hearing this voice, Gu Jiusi jumped up from the ground in alarm. Liu Yu Ru emerged from the crowd, glanced at Luo Zishang, then at Gu Jiusi, and asked with some confusion, "What is this?"

"Madam, you're here."

Gu Jiusi hadn't expected Liu Yu Ru to see him in such a sorry state and felt rather embarrassed. "Why didn't you go to the shop today?"

"I happened to be passing by."

As Liu Yu Ru spoke, her gaze fell on Gu Jiusi's face, and she immediately exclaimed in shock, "Husband, what happened to you?"

"It's... it's nothing..."

Gu Jiusi stammered, but before he could finish, a commoner nearby loudly interjected, "Madam, Lord Gu was just beaten by the Luo family guards."

Liu Yu Ru looked at Luo Zishang in surprise. Gu Jiusi quickly said, "It's not serious..."

"He was thrown out!"

Another commoner immediately added. Liu Yu Ru immediately looked at Gu Jiusi's face. Gu Jiusi continued, "Really, it's not..."

"He landed face first—'thud!'—sounded painful!"

"Can you shut up?!"

Gu Jiusi finally lost his patience and shouted at the commoners. The commoners stared quietly at Gu Jiusi, who awkwardly turned back and explained, "It really doesn't hurt much..."

However, Liu Yu Ru's eyes reddened on the spot. She grabbed Gu Jiusi's hand and said angrily, "Husband, they've gone too far!"

"Mm..." Gu Jiusi lowered his head, not daring to speak. Liu Yu Ru turned to glare at Luo Zishang and said, "Luo Zishang, my husband is, after all, a third-rank minister. How dare you allow your guards to assault a court official? Is there no law, no respect for hierarchy?!"

"Liu Yu Ru, you need to be reasonable," Luo Zishang was nearly driven mad by this couple's antics. He pointed at Gu Jiusi and said angrily, "He came to my door demanding money. When I refused, he stubbornly refused to leave. Not only did he try to hit me, but he also injured many of my guards."

"Nonsense!" Liu Yu Ru immediately pulled Gu Jiusi closer and said, "My husband has always been refined and proper. Look at him—though he's tall, he's slender and weak. How could he possibly fight your guards? Lord Luo, there should be limits to your false accusations."

"False accusations?" Luo Zishang grabbed a guard nearby and pointed at the bruise on his face. "Then tell me, who did this? Do you think everyone is blind?"

"That was clearly done by General Shen Ming!"Liu Yu Ru answered with righteous conviction, causing Shen Ming, who was eating freshly bought tofu pudding under the nearby willow tree, to spray his food with a "pfft."

Liu Yu Ru pointed at Shen Ming and said, "Look at his build and fierceness—it's clearly General Shen who did this. How could my husband, a civil official, possibly do such a thing?"

Luo Zishang: "..."

Shen Ming and Ye Shi'an: "..."

Gu Jiusi stood behind Liu Yu Ru, nodding vigorously.

Liu Yu Ru took a deep breath and continued, "I overheard everything clearly just now. Now that the Yellow River needs repairs, you're unwilling to contribute funds. Everyone cares about money—I'm a merchant, so I understand that. But isn't it going too far to resort to violence over this?"

"It's not that I'm unwilling—I don't have the money!"

Luo Zishang was nearly at his breaking point: "Can you two as a couple be reasonable?"

"Jiu Si," Liu Yu Ru turned and grasped Gu Jiusi's hand, "Lord Luo's heart has always been in Yangzhou. The lives of common people mean nothing to him. There's no need to beg him anymore. Let's find our own solution—we can sell shops, sell houses, rally the citizens to donate together. We'll manage to repair the Yellow River somehow. Nothing in this world matters more than the people. I'm willing to endure hardship with you, sleeping rough and sharing hardships. You're a good official—we mustn't emulate certain people."

"My wife is right," Gu Jiusi sighed. "I was mistaken. I originally thought Lord Luo was also a good official who cared for the people, but never mind... forget it."

Gu Jiusi waved his hand: "I'll take my leave now."

"Farewell."

After the couple finished speaking, Liu Yu Ru linked arms with Gu Jiusi and they departed.

Gu Jiusi walked with a limp, prompting Liu Yu Ru to ask worriedly, "Husband, is your leg alright?"

"It's fine," Gu Jiusi sighed. "No need to worry, my dear. It's probably not broken."

...

The couple supported each other boarding the carriage. Once inside, they exchanged glances and couldn't help bursting into laughter.

Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming followed them into the carriage. Seeing the two sitting there clutching their stomachs with laughter, Ye Shi'an sighed and said, "That was overly dramatic."

"Who cares?"

Gu Jiusi sat to one side, tossing an apple. "Anyway, we've said what needed to be said. Previously he was spreading rumors everywhere about the Yellow River situation, talking nonsense outside until it seemed like anyone opposing the repairs would be a criminal. So today I gave him a taste of his own medicine—let him experience how it feels to have accusations thrown at him."

"Just because someone stands high doesn't make them right," Gu Jiusi sneered. "Constantly making lofty accusations until nobody can get anything done—for such people, I'll give them a hat to wear too."

"You two," Liu Yu Ru sighed, taking a medicine bottle from nearby and sitting beside Gu Jiusi to tend his wounds. "If you were going to make trouble, why did you let them beat you like this? When I heard you'd been beaten, I was terrified."

Liu Yu Ru had rushed over immediately upon hearing the three had been thrown out at Luo Manor's entrance. Arriving to find Gu Jiusi shouting in the street, she'd felt somewhat relieved seeing him so energetic.

As she blew on his wounds, Gu Jiusi winced in pain. "Without some injuries, it wouldn't be believable tomorrow. Good thing Shi An and Shen Ming came with me today—otherwise I might have really been beaten to death by Luo Manor's guards."As he spoke, Gu Jiusi suddenly remembered something and quickly said to Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming, "Tomorrow, Luo Zishang will definitely submit a memorial against us. Make sure to keep the wounds on your faces. If His Majesty brings this up tomorrow, don't say anything—just kneel and apologize immediately. I'll handle the rest."

"Then why are you still applying medicine?" Shen Ming asked indignantly. "No one's treating our wounds!"

"Go marry a wife if you want someone to tend to you," Gu Jiusi replied smugly. At his words, the other two fell silent.

Liu Yu Ru, hearing Gu Jiusi's remark, hesitated and asked, "Should we still apply the medicine or not?"

"Yes, yes, yes," Gu Jiusi said immediately. "I even want you to blow on it for me."

"Enough!" Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming exclaimed in unison, dragging Gu Jiusi over. As Gu Jiusi struggled, the two held him down, causing him to yelp loudly. Liu Yu Ru watched with a smile, then turned to look out the window where the setting sun cast a golden glow—a perfect moment.

None of the three tended to their wounds that night. The next day, when they woke up, the bruises had darkened, and they attended court with their injured faces. After discussing major state affairs, Fan Xuan said, "Gu Jiusi, Ye Shi'an, Shen Ming, I've received a memorial accusing you three of forcibly breaking into Lord Luo's residence and injuring many of his guards. What do you have to say for yourselves?"

"Your Majesty," the three stepped forward in unison, knelt neatly, and said together, "We admit our fault."

Their swift and sincere apology left everyone present speechless.

Gu Jiusi lifted his bruised face and said earnestly, "Your Majesty, we acknowledge our mistake. However, we acted out of urgency regarding the Yellow River funds yesterday, which led to the conflict with Lord Luo. We acted for the sake of the nation and hope Lord Luo can understand."

"Regardless, resorting to violence in someone's residence is unacceptable," Fan Xuan coughed lightly and then declared, "You are hereby fined three months' salary."

The three thanked him for his mercy, and the matter was settled.

After leaving the court, Shen Ming grumbled, "We should have defended ourselves."

"The issue is resolved," Gu Jiusi said. Ye Shi'an looked over, puzzled, and asked, "What issue?"

"Luo Zishang has agreed to release the funds," Gu Jiusi replied, stretching lazily. "I can rest easy now."

"How do you know?" Shen Ming asked, bewildered. Ye Shi'an thought for a moment and said, "The three of us showed up with visible injuries, clearly worse off, yet His Majesty didn't hesitate to punish us. He must be making a gesture to Luo Zishang. His improved attitude toward Luo Zishang means Luo Zishang has agreed to provide the money."

"Clever," Gu Jiusi said, tucking his hands into his sleeves as he walked ahead. "Luo Zishang must be seething with frustration right now."

"The weaker Yangzhou becomes, the harder his path will be in the future," Ye Shi'an frowned. "But I don't understand—why did he insist on coming to the Eastern Capital?"

"Exactly," Shen Ming chimed in. "Wouldn't it have been better for him to stay in Yangzhou and watch the fight from the sidelines?"

The question made Gu Jiusi fall silent. After a long pause, he smiled faintly and said, "Who knows? He must have his reasons. We don't need to overthink it. Let's just wait—" Gu Jiusi curled his lips and glanced at Luo Zishang's carriage in the distance. "Until the day things unfold."Ye Shi'an and Shen Ming followed Gu Jiusi's gaze and saw Luo Zishang in the distance lifting the carriage curtain. Noticing their attention, he gave them a slight nod from afar.

The three of them bowed in return as a reciprocal gesture.

A few days after being penalized with three months' salary deduction, Fan Xuan summoned Gu Jiusi to the palace.

"Luo Zishang has contacted Madam Ji," Fan Xuan said while tapping the table. "Yangzhou will provide ten million, but with one condition."

"Oh?"

"The ten million isn't a gift," Fan Xuan contemplated. "Madam Ji proposes that Great Xia implement Youzhou's debt model nationwide as national liabilities. Yangzhou is willing to contribute ten million exclusively to purchase this Great Xia national debt."

——Author's Note:

Luo Zishang: Can you readers be reasonable? Gu Jiusi brought an entire team to gang up on me, yet you still think I'm bullying him?! Have you been possessed by Liu Yu Ru or blinded by Gu Jiusi's good looks?!

Gu Jiusi: Thanks, I really am more handsome than you.