Destined

Liu Yu Ru noticed Gu Jiusi staring at her and couldn't help but look up, asking, "Haven't you figured it out yet?"

Gu Jiusi sighed, "Not yet. I originally thought of having the court issue them IOUs, with the promise of repayment later. But they wouldn't trust it."

After pondering for a moment, Liu Yu Ru said slowly, "The reason they don't trust it is because even Fan Xuan and Zhou Gaolang themselves can't guarantee they'll win. If they lose, who would acknowledge the debt?"

"You're right," Gu Jiusi said with a bitter smile. "Then there's truly no solution."

"But borrowing money is still better than seizing it," Liu Yu Ru sighed. "At least if Fan Xuan and Zhou Gaolang win, they'll repay them."

Gu Jiusi nodded but said nothing more. Seeing him still troubled, Liu Yu Ru set down her abacus and thought seriously. "If we want the next court to acknowledge this debt, it can't just be a debt—it has to be a method. A method that continuously generates wealth for the state, so the next court must repay the previous one's debt to continue this model. Treat the court as a debtor: borrow and repay, and borrowing again won't be difficult."

Gu Jiusi looked up at Liu Yu Ru, who continued pondering aloud. "For merchants, this money shouldn't just rely on the court's backing for profit; there must be other ways to earn money for them to feel doubly secure. For example, if this debt can be traded, merchants would have a way to profit. But for something to be tradable, it must have value in people's minds. A debt that might not be repaid," Liu Yu Ru smiled wryly, "how could it have value that most people would trust?"

"I encountered something once," Gu Jiusi suddenly spoke up.

Liu Yu Ru glanced at him. Gu Jiusi twirled the pen in his hand, leaning casually against a pillar as he sat. "About three or four years ago, there was a man at the gambling den who said a merchant specialized in usurious loans. He had strong ties to the authorities and was on good terms with the canal gang at the time. If you gave him a hundred coins, you'd earn five coins every month—money would grow even if left untouched. Plus, they offered a referral fee: for every person you brought in, you'd get one coin for every hundred coins they earned. So everyone dragged their friends and relatives along. At first, no one believed it, but they paid out monthly, and those around them genuinely received money every month. Soon, everyone was investing. I remember within less than a year, almost everyone I knew had put money in, all waiting for future returns."

"What happened next?" Liu Yu Ru pressed urgently.

Gu Jiusi chuckled, "Then one day, the man suddenly disappeared."

Liu Yu Ru was stunned. Gu Jiusi continued, "He wasn't actually lending usurious loans at all. Yangzhou was prosperous back then—how could there be so many borrowers? The money he held had long exceeded what borrowers in Yangzhou needed."

"So, you mean whether something can be sold isn't about its actual value at all?""Correct." Gu Jiusi nodded. "The first month naturally depends on its inherent value. But whether it can be sold in the future entirely depends on whether people believe it can generate profit. Once common folks are willing to continuously trade these debts—meaning there's a constant flow of people buying and selling—then even if the emperor changes, this business will never cease."

As he spoke, Gu Jiusi grew increasingly animated. "I need to find a way to make these debts more tradable, then distribute interest monthly. When everyone sees the money, these debts will naturally keep circulating."

"Right." Liu Yu Ru quickly added, "You could divide these debts into long-term debt and short-term debt, letting people choose freely. Long-term debt would have higher interest rates, short-term debt lower ones. Interest should be distributed monthly without delay. Common people should be allowed to trade freely among themselves. For example, if someone holds a debt that matures in three years but only has one year left and urgently needs money, they could sell it. Others, attracted by the total principal and interest after three years, would buy it at a suitable price."

"Once trading begins, if someone buys and sells quickly, they'd profit from these rapid transactions. Eventually, interest becomes less important—there will always be those who want to time the market for quick buys and sells."

Their minds raced faster as they hurriedly began drafting a plan.

Liu Yu Ru always had her own methods for selling products, while Gu Jiusi was more meticulous and familiar with rule-setting.

They worked through the night until midnight before finishing. Gu Jiusi went to write the Memorial while Liu Yu Ru, unable to stay awake, fell asleep.

When Gu Jiusi completed the Memorial, he checked the sky and decided to sleep for half an hour. He carefully felt his way to bed, and Liu Yu Ru murmured drowsily, "Only sleeping now?"

Gu Jiusi smiled, looking at the young woman before him. A strange happiness welled up inside him.

If sharing life and death brings immense impact and emotion,

Then loving someone lies in the ordinary moments and fragments of daily life.

Gu Jiusi leaned down to kiss Liu Yu Ru, wrapped his arms around her, held her tightly for a moment, then nuzzled her back happily. "Mm, going to sleep."

After just half an hour of sleep, Gu Jiusi got up. After washing up, seeing dawn breaking, he went early to the Zhou residence to pay his respects.

By the time he reached the Zhou residence, the sky was fully bright. Gu Jiusi had someone announce his arrival, and shortly after, Zhou Ye came to open the door.

"Brother Zhou, you're up this early?" Gu Jiusi raised an eyebrow. Zhou Ye smiled and said, "I should be asking you that. When I heard you'd arrived, I specifically came to greet you. Looking for my father? Follow me."

Zhou Ye led Gu Jiusi to the courtyard. Gu Jiusi briefly explained his purpose, and Zhou Ye nodded repeatedly. "This idea of yours is excellent. I've been thinking the same for a long time."

As they spoke, they reached the courtyard where Zhou Gaolang was practicing martial arts. He had just finished a set when Zhou Ye stepped forward to hand him a towel. Zhou Gaolang wiped his sweat while Gu Jiusi waited quietly nearby. After drying himself, Zhou Gaolang glanced at him and said with a smile, "Weren't you going to the Zhao family today? What brings you here so early in the morning?"

"This official has some ideas I'd like to personally report to Lord Zhou."

"Ideas?" Zhou Gaolang chuckled, then said, "Alright, let's discuss them in the study."The three men walked into the study, and the servants closed the door behind them. Zhou Gaolang took the tea from Zhou Ye and said calmly, "Speak."

"I have come to discuss the matter of the Zhao family today. After much deliberation last night, I felt it was inappropriate, so I came specifically to ask Your Excellency about your and Lord Fan's future plans—are you seeking a temporary solution or lasting prosperity?"

"What do you mean by a temporary solution, and what is lasting prosperity?"

Zhou Gaolang lowered his head, wiping his hands, his expression unreadable.

Gu Jiusi observed Zhou Gaolang and carefully replied, "The Qin dynasty employed strategies to strengthen the state and weaken the people, exhausting resources on military campaigns to unify the six states, yet it collapsed in the second generation. This is a temporary solution."

"And what of lasting prosperity?"

"The Han dynasty nurtured recovery, adopting Confucianism externally and Daoism internally, achieving lasting prosperity."

Hearing this, Zhou Gaolang laughed. "The Han did not last forever either."

"Because they did not persist."

"Enough," Zhou Gaolang waved his hand. "I understand. You are here to plead for the Zhao family."

"I would not dare," Gu Jiusi said immediately. "Youzhou lacks funds and grain. I would not let misguided compassion hinder important matters. But I believe there might be a better approach. I wonder if we could try it."

Gu Jiusi looked up at Zhou Gaolang. "I trust Your Excellency is not shortsighted. For Lord Fan, the reputation of benevolence and righteousness in the future is worth far more than a thousand pieces of gold."

Zhou Gaolang did not speak. He stared at Gu Jiusi and said coldly, "You truly dare to speak."

Gu Jiusi immediately stepped back and prostrated himself on the ground. "I only wish to share Your Excellency's burdens."

Zhou Gaolang watched him, seemingly deep in thought. After a while, he slowly said, "Then what is your proposal?"

Zhou Gaolang spoke slowly, "Lord Fan and I are not exactly good men, but we are not utterly vicious either. If there were another way, we would not resort to the worst methods."

"Your Excellency," Gu Jiusi said slowly, "Last night, I pondered deeply. Naturally, you need money, but if you seize it by force, it will become an indelible stain on your reputation. Why not consider lending to the people with interest?"

"We have considered that," Zhou Gaolang rejected it outright. "But they will not trust us."

"Please hear me out, Your Excellency. For this debt, we must first decide how much to borrow—say, two hundred million taels of silver. We divide it into two types: long-term loans, such as three years, with high interest, and short-term loans, such as three months, with low interest. We split the debt into two hundred million shares, each worth one tael of silver, and let people purchase according to their needs."

"We pay interest monthly, so people see returns every month. Initially, the common folk will not believe it, but when they see others profiting, they will be tempted and naturally join in to buy the bonds. If people believe the bonds can yield profits, they might even trade them privately. Once the credibility of these bonds is established, not only will the people of Youzhou buy them, but everyone across the thirteen provinces will too. Then, funds will flow in continuously from all regions, and even Northern Liang could purchase them."

Hearing this, Zhou Gaolang fell into deep thought.

He had to admit he was tempted. He pondered and slowly said, "But how will we repay the money?"

"When we lack funds, we use debt-financed debt, but that is the last resort because people will assess the court's capability. So our best plan is actually to develop the nation's strength."Zhou Gaolang looked up at Gu Jiusi. At this moment, Gu Jiusi had already directly referred to it as a "nation."

Zhou Ye stood by with a shocked expression, but Gu Jiusi remained unperturbed, as if completely unaware of what he had just said.

After a long while, Zhou Gaolang picked up his tea, took a sip, and then said, "Continue."

"A strong military maintains a nation's stability. With no external threats and a gentle domestic policy, the people will feel secure and wealthy, and thus willing to spend. When the people spend, they support all industries, and all industries naturally flourish. When the people are wealthy, the court's tax revenue increases. So, if the money we take from the people can make the nation prosperous, we will naturally have the means to repay it. Moreover, if you are still uneasy, we can assign a dedicated group to plan the use of these funds. It would not be unreasonable for the government to engage in commerce."

Zhou Gaolang listened, and after a long silence, he slowly said, "I will discuss this matter with Minister Fan. However, you must retrieve the Zhao family's money today. Their arrogance and tyranny have gone on for too long. It is time to rein them in."

"I understand, Your Excellency."

Gu Jiusi quickly bowed. Zhou Gaolang tapped the table and said, "Leave the memorial on the table. You may attend to your duties now."

Upon hearing this, Gu Jiusi placed the memorial on the table, bowed respectfully, and withdrew.

As he stepped outside, Zhou Ye caught up with him and urgently asked, "How did you come up with such a plan? I've never even heard of anything like it."

Gu Jiusi smiled faintly. Zhou Ye sighed and said, "I had been trying to think of a solution myself, always feeling that their methods were not befitting of a righteous leader. But I couldn't come up with anything good. Your idea is excellent."

"But it may not work," Gu Jiusi lamented. "In truth, implementing this plan carries great risks. It is a last resort."

Zhou Ye nodded and suddenly asked, "I've only just heard—did Huang Long and his men bully you?"

"It's nothing serious," Gu Jiusi waved it off. Zhou Ye said sternly, "Those people are nothing but local bullies who prey on the weak. If anything happens, you must tell me."

"If I had to trouble you, Brother Zhou, with such petty individuals," Gu Jiusi chuckled, "wouldn't that make me utterly useless?"

Zhou Ye was momentarily speechless. Gu Jiusi exited the premises, bowed to Zhou Ye, boarded his carriage, and headed straight to the Magistrate Office.

As soon as he entered, he saw Huang Long leading all the constables standing in the courtyard. Most of them bore injuries, large or small, on their faces. Gu Jiusi coughed uncomfortably; he didn't need to guess—it was undoubtedly Liu Yu Ru's handiwork from the day before.

He walked into the main hall, and Huang Long stepped forward, reporting earnestly, "Sir, the men are all prepared."

Gu Jiusi thanked Huang Long, selected his team, and set off for the Zhao residence.

The commotion they caused was considerable, drawing sidelong glances from passersby along the way. Gu Jiusi swaggered all the way to the Zhao mansion and knocked on the main gate.

Instead of forcing his way in, he stood at the entrance and had someone respectfully announce their arrival. The servant, seeing the situation, knew it was trouble and hurried inside. By then, Zhao He Shun, the head of the Zhao family, had been awake all night. Sitting wearily in the main hall, he nodded tiredly and said, "Let him in."

The steward went out and escorted Gu Jiusi inside.

Gu Jiusi led his men with an air of ease, strolling through the courtyard as if admiring flowers in a leisurely garden. He even exchanged remarks with the steward about the pruning of the plants, presenting the image of an elegant young master—utterly unlike someone who had come to deliver a reprimand.Zhao He Shun watched as Gu Jiusi entered, his hands tucked into his sleeves, kneeling in silence. After Gu Jiusi stepped inside, Zhao raised a hand and gestured to the guest seat beside him. "Lord Gu, please."

Gu Jiusi bowed in greeting, knelt down, and a maid served him tea. He lifted the cup, took a small sip, and remarked, "Golden Silver Needle tea from before the spring rains—worth a thousand taels per ounce." He then looked up at Zhao He Shun with a faint smile. "For Master Zhao to serve such tea to humble me, I feel uneasy."

"The one who should feel uneasy is this old man."

Zhao He Shun’s voice remained calm. "Let’s speak frankly, Lord Gu. What is your purpose in visiting the Zhao residence today?"

"I gave you a night to think it over, Master Zhao. Haven’t you figured it out yet?"

Gu Jiusi set down his teacup, lightly tapping a folding fan against his palm as he turned to gaze at the swaying plants in the courtyard. "Master Zhao, why do you think the Gu Family came to Youzhou and gave away all our wealth?"

Zhao He Shun remained silent, his eyes bloodshot as he stared at Gu Jiusi. Gu Jiusi turned back to him and smiled. "Could it be that Lord Zhao is still unaware of what happened in Yangzhou?"

News of the events in Yangzhou had spread, however slowly. At these words, Zhao He Shun’s expression shifted dramatically, and he burst out angrily, "How dare Fan Xuan do such a thing?!"

"Why wouldn’t he dare?" Gu Jiusi fixed his gaze on Zhao. "Men die for wealth, birds for food. Do you think, in the current situation, there’s anything Lord Fan wouldn’t dare to do?"

"Are you unaware of what the various military governors are plotting? Take a look at Youzhou’s recent financial expenditures—see what’s being purchased in bulk. Wang Shanquan is forcing merchants in Yangzhou to donate—where do you think that money is going? Every military governor is conscripting soldiers and seizing grain. What do you suppose they’re preparing for?"

"Master Zhao, Zhao Yan is still in prison. Don’t you understand the choice before you? Which is more important—your life or your money?"

Zhao He Shun’s expression turned cold. He looked up at Gu Jiusi. "Then what will Fan Xuan give me?"

"Whatever he gave the Gu Family," Gu Jiusi chuckled lightly, "he will give to you."

"A mere county magistrate position?!" Zhao He Shun fumed. Gu Jiusi waved his fan. "Don’t misunderstand, Master Zhao. That magistrate position—I earned it myself. Lord Fan is not one to sell official posts."

"This is too much!"

Observing Zhao He Shun’s reaction, Gu Jiusi pondered for a moment before finally saying, "Master Zhao, as fellow merchants, I understand your thoughts. But let me advise you—going with the flow is what matters most. You don’t need to donate all your wealth like the Gu Family, but you must give the amount Lord Fan demands. If you fall short, you’ll end up worse off than the Gu Family. At least I still have a place to stay—you might not be so fortunate."

"Keep the green hills alive, and you’ll never lack firewood. It’s not good for your noble son to remain in prison for long. Moreover," Gu Jiusi closed his fan and leaned forward slightly, "let me share a little insider information: Lord Fan doesn’t actually intend to take your money without giving anything in return. He will find a way to make a fair exchange. It’s just that you won’t get to choose what you receive in return, that’s all."

"What kind of thing?" Zhao He Shun looked up. Gu Jiusi leaned back into his original position and smiled. "That, I don’t know. But Lord Zhao, as of today, will it be me forcibly collecting silver, or shall we keep things dignified with a voluntary donation from you?"Zhao He Shun’s face darkened, his teeth clenched. Gu Jiusi lowered his head and chuckled softly. "It seems the master wishes to see the young master. Guards—"

"How much does Fan Xuan want?"

Zhao He Shun finally spoke. Gu Jiusi named a figure, then added, "If you cannot gather the full amount today, it’s no matter. Just provide a deposit first. I’ll wait here."

Zhao He Shun flung his sleeves, stood up, and ordered his men to bring the silver.

He then returned to the main hall, standing at the doorway with his hands tucked into his sleeves. Backlit, he looked at Gu Jiusi and said, "Gu Jiusi, with your way of doing things, you’ll end up torn to pieces sooner or later."

Gu Jiusi paused slightly as he sipped his tea. Zhao He Shun sneered, "Since ancient times, those who serve as blades—have any met a good end? Shang Yang was torn apart by chariots, Chao Cuo was cut in half at the waist." Zhao He Shun walked over to Gu Jiusi and said calmly, "Young man, just wait and see."

Gu Jiusi remained silent. He finished the last sip of tea and then replied, "Master Zhao is mistaken. I am not a blade; I am merely a servant."

Zhao He Shun looked up at him. Gu Jiusi’s expression was placid. "A servant to the common people of the world. Master Zhao, though I am forcing you today, perhaps in the coming years, you will thank me?"

With that, Gu Jiusi set down his teacup, smiled lightly, and stood up. He bowed respectfully to Zhao He Shun. "I take my leave."

Gu Jiusi walked into the courtyard and saw Huang Long counting the silver. After personally verifying the amount, he took the money back to the Magistrate Office and deposited it into the treasury.

He then ordered Zhao Yan to be punished with twenty strokes of the cane and had him sent back with great fanfare.

As soon as Zhao Yan returned, the wealthy merchants of Hope Capital City grew restless with anxiety. Everyone began making their own plans. That very night, Gu Jiusi issued an order to tighten security in Hope Capital.

After completing these tasks, he didn’t know what came over him, but he felt an emptiness inside. Carrying a lantern, he wandered somewhat aimlessly until he finally arrived at the entrance of Floral Visage.

Dressed in his Official Robe, he sat on the steps and placed the lantern beside him. Huang Long hesitated and said, "My lord, perhaps this humble servant can keep watch for you and wait for the lady to return home?"

Gu Jiusi waved his hand and smiled. "Brother Huang, I’ll wait for my wife. You may return first."

Huang Long couldn’t help but laugh, recognizing the playful affection between the young couple, and withdrew.

After Huang Long left, Gu Jiusi sat alone at the entrance. Gazing up at the stars in the quiet night, he suddenly found his place of belonging.

He was like a wandering spirit adrift all day, finally finding a place to rest. He couldn’t suppress a smile. After waiting a while, Liu Yu Ru opened the door, laughing and chatting with others. As soon as the door opened, she saw Gu Jiusi sitting at the entrance.

He was in his usual posture, but now he wore an Official Robe. Liu Yu Ru was taken aback. Gu Jiusi picked up the lantern and stood, brushing the dust from his clothes. Gently, he said, "Are you finished? I’ve come to take you home."

The sisters beside them giggled softly. Yin Hong said cheerfully, "Madam, we’ll take our leave now."

With that, the group scurried away. Liu Yu Ru blushed at their teasing. She cleared her throat lightly and walked somewhat awkwardly to Gu Jiusi. "Weren’t you supposed to go to the Zhao family today? With so much to do, why come to fetch me?"

"I missed you," Gu Jiusi said directly. Liu Yu Ru was stunned. She turned her head away, not daring to look at him. "Why say such things so suddenly?"

Gu Jiusi chuckled softly. As he looked at her features, he felt that in this world, she possessed a purity that transcended all else.She gently illuminated his path, giving him all the courage to move forward.

Liu Yuru felt his prolonged gaze and couldn't help turning to look at him. "What's wrong?"

No sooner had she spoken than Gu Jiusi suddenly reached out, pulling her into his embrace and holding her tightly.

"Yuru," he murmured involuntarily, "don't leave me. Stay with me always, alright?"

"Of course," Liu Yuru chuckled softly. "Unless you divorce me, how could I ever leave you?"

Gu Jiusi didn't speak. He held her in his arms, unsure if this counted as comfort. He felt peaceful and joyful, yet there remained a faint, indescribable trace of unwillingness.

He wanted more, but he didn't know what more Liu Yuru could possibly give him.

He had already gained so much; to be greedy now would be pure avarice.

He felt that embracing was his way of drawing strength. After holding her long enough, he finally released her, then took her hand, retrieved the items she was carrying, lifted the lantern, and cheerfully said, "Let's go home."

Liu Yuru didn't know what he had been through, but she clearly sensed the shift in his mood. So she said nothing, simply walking hand in hand with him along the bluestone path.

She glanced at the man beside her, dressed in a blue official robe yet walking with the carefree air of a child. She couldn't help but chuckle lightly, "You're an official now. Shouldn't you act more dignified?"

"Dignity isn't important," Gu Jiusi turned to look at her, "Do I look handsome?"

"What does handsomeness matter?" Liu Yuru raised an eyebrow, "You're a grown man, always fussing over your appearance. It's not like you make a living off your face—aren't you ashamed?"

"Why should I be ashamed?" Gu Jiusi said with mock seriousness, "My main occupation is living off Boss Liu's generosity. Being a county magistrate is just my side job. If I don't excel at my main occupation, then I should be ashamed!"

Liu Yuru was momentarily stunned before catching his meaning. Amused and exasperated, she reached out to pinch him, "Gu Jiusi, you shameless man."

Gu Jiusi yelped dramatically, feigning intense pain, "Boss Liu, have mercy! Spare my humble life!"

"Gu Jiusi," Liu Yuru laughed at his antics, her pinching losing all its force, "You're a full-grown man. What could I possibly do to you?"

"Don't say that," Gu Jiusi adopted a serious expression, "Ordinary women couldn't do much, but you're the woman who can storm a County Government Office."

Liu Yuru stiffened. She coughed lightly, somewhat embarrassed, and released her grip. Falling silent as if searching for a response, she was quickly pulled closer as Gu Jiusi wrapped an arm around her shoulders, smiling, "Don't overthink it. I'm truly happy you did all that for me."

Liu Yuru gave a soft acknowledgment. Gu Jiusi watched her, genuinely puzzled—how could someone who'd led a charge against a County Government Office become so shy with a single word and lower her head with a mere gesture when alone with him?

Had he not witnessed her confronting Madam Du, beating Huang Long, and seen the injuries on those dozen bailiffs' faces himself, he would never have imagined Liu Yuru capable of such things.

He couldn't help but sigh. Liu Yuru asked curiously, "Why are you sighing?"

"I was thinking," Gu Jiusi said regretfully, "I've always prided myself on being clever and perceptive, seeing everything clearly. But with you, I've discovered I'm just a fool."

"Hmm?"

"If someone told me you'd bullied them, I truly wouldn't believe it. I'd assume they had bullied you, that they'd caused you trouble."

Liu Yuru couldn't suppress her laughter, "Have you forgotten when I went to the Brothel to confront you and forced you to study?"

"That was me letting you win," Gu Jiusi quickly retorted, "Otherwise, with your temperament, who could you possibly bully?"

Liu Yuru stifled her laughter. Gu Jiusi glanced down at her and gently tapped her chin."Even when beating someone up, you look adorable. It's clear you're the one being bullied."

Liu Yuru couldn't hold back anymore, clutching her stomach as she burst into laughter.

Seeing her laugh so heartily, Gu Jiusi couldn't help but curl the corners of his mouth.

Suddenly, he felt that everything he had given up, everything he had strived for, and all the misunderstandings had meaning.

Holding this official position, dirtying his hands—it was all for the girl before him.

He wanted her to have wealth and glory, peace and safety—

Author's Note: [Mini Theater]

Gu Jiusi: Our plan is to become county magistrate today, issue government bonds tomorrow, implement the Liu Yuru Plan the day after, and establish the Youzhou currency as the world's reserve currency in a financial system...

Liu Yuru: Shut up, this story is over.

Gu Jiusi: ...

Liu Yuru: Our plan is to confess today, hold hands tomorrow, kiss the day after, share a bed the day after that, then have two children in three years—a boy and a girl.

Gu Jiusi: Shut up, this story is over.