first minister

Chapter 473 Daxia Gaoyang (finale)

Time flies and comes to the end of the first year of Yongping.

When the Chinese New Year atmosphere enveloped Zhongjing City, several pieces of good news flew into the Dingguo Palace, which is now the most powerful in the city.

The first thing to arrive was Dongfang Bai's personal letter sent by courier.

According to the letter, his travels have already reached the southeast. After more than half a year of treatment, his injured leg has recovered very well and he is now able to carry out lifting activities independently. Although he is still unable to walk, it is only a matter of time.

At the same time, he gained a lot from his half-year travel, especially when he witnessed the hardships of the people and the changes brought about by the New Deal. He gained a much deeper understanding of the government and the world.

Finally, he also mentioned that he prepared a gift for his uncle and gave it to the messenger to bring back with him.

Xia Jingyun happily put away the letter and did not go to the palace to announce the good news on his own initiative. He believed that there would be no mistakes in these little things like Dongfang Bai.

Not long after, the year-end financial results of Huaxia Corporation were also released.

Thanks to Xiao Fengshan's conquest of the entire peninsula east of Yuyan Prefecture, Jiang Yuhu and Yelu Xiu marched west together to open up nearly a thousand miles of trade routes. Although most business travelers were still waiting and watching, driven by their profit-seeking nature, they still had the courage to do so. took the first step.

After they tasted the sweetness, the number of business travelers increased day by day, and the long-suppressed demand finally met, ushering in an explosion like firewood. In just half a year, the company's net profit after deducting all expenses was A total of more than seven million taels.

This is only achieved in just a few months. If the trade road is fully constructed, construction and immigration in various places are fully launched, and the development and integration of local resources are further strengthened, the future will be limitless.

Seeing the real benefits and bright future, the governments and opposition parties in both countries were extremely excited.

As a result, the wars that really had no intention of attacking each other began to be carried out unanimously.

With the income from the previous auction and the dividend of two to three million taels this time, the treasury of the Great Xia court was quickly filling up.

Under Xia Jingyun's strong promotion, the New Deal also began to deepen from simple financial reforms to all aspects of the entire government affairs, including official administration, ethics, engineering, criminal names, etc., were all being implemented in an orderly manner.

Facing the bureaucracy, the central government backed by imperial power holds absolute power;

Facing aristocratic families, when the external space is so vast and their interests are satisfied, none of these people dare to jump in even if they suffer a little loss, not to mention that Xia Jingyun has tied them firmly to the same big ship with 10% of his share. ;

As for the people, they themselves are the biggest beneficiaries of the New Deal, and naturally they have no objections.

As a result, the scene of political harmony and harmony really reappeared in the land of Daxia, and the whole world was prosperous.

In stark contrast, Beiliang is governed by seven surnames.

When the huge war profits from abroad were brought back, when the huge dividends of Chinese companies fell into the hands of the Seven Surnames, when the north and the south no longer disputed, and mutual trade became frequent, under Yelv Shi's deliberate indulgence and fueling, there was no complete political system and unity. The high-level officials in Beiliang who commanded them quickly became corrupted and fell into a quagmire of drunkenness and dreams.

Corruption is rampant and ruthless officials are rampant, making it difficult for the people to make a living.

In the second year of Yongping, in accordance with the wishes of the Queen Mother, Daxia opened Enke.

Xia Jingyun, the former Number One Scholar and Prime Minister, personally served as the examiner.

Two years ago, the leader Yu Jiayu Daoxing, who regretted not being ranked because the lanterns were canceled, finally paid off his hard work and won the first place in one fell swoop.

When he was riding a tall horse and paraded through the streets, he only said one sentence when people asked about his feelings at the moment.

"Two years ago, when I failed the exam, Xia Xiang gave us a poem. It is also one of the beliefs that has always inspired me to study hard. I also give this to you: I am born with talents that will be useful, and all the money will be returned to me. Come!"

I don’t know how many people who failed the exam heard this sentence and saw this example with envy.

Anyway, the final result was that what was clearly a carnival for the whole family ended up causing Xia Jingyun's reputation to skyrocket.

By the middle of the year, Su Yanyan and Qin Li gave birth almost at the same time, each giving birth to a son.

Xia Jingyun did not change his previous promise because of his overwhelming power. His two sons were adopted by the Su family and the Qin family respectively to inherit the clan.

From a factual and legal perspective, these two families are completely tied to the Xia family.

At the end of that year, when Daxia was getting better together, surprising news came from Beiliang.

A powerful official in the Northern Liang Dynasty, King Yelvshi of Dingxi, suddenly fell ill.

When the news reached Daxia, the people of Daxia who were immersed in a state of prosperity, especially the senior officials of Daxia, instantly panicked.

They were not worried about Yelvshi's life and death, but they were worried that the changes in the Northern Liang Dynasty would cause many twists and turns to the Chinese business houses that were currently running well.

After all, Yelvshi was also a powerful official in Beiliang. His power was no worse than that of Xia Jingyun in Daxia, and his style was even more impressive. If such a person fell, it would be almost impossible for the court not to cause some trouble.

When someone raised this concern in the court, Xia Jingyun unexpectedly waved his hand and smiled, "Don't worry, everyone, you are worried about this benefit. Is it possible that the people of Beiliang are willing to give up? No matter how chaotic Beiliang is, it is nothing more than seven The surname is spinning in circles. Whether it is the Xue family that regains power or whichever other family comes to power, how can they spoil this important matter after they have tasted the benefits? If they really dare to spoil it, he will not be able to sit in that position! "

After everyone heard what he said, they felt a little relieved.

Xia Jingyun, who had a smile on his face, cursed Yelvshi in his heart, "You old man, you're trying to imitate Sima, right?"

What happened afterwards was exactly what he expected.

Half a month later, when Xia Jingyun was walking in the house, supporting the two ladies who were about to give birth, Yanzhi came in a hurry.

"Husband."

When Xia Jingyun saw Rouge's expression, he let go of his hand and let the maid support the two ladies to continue walking. He then sat down in a pavilion and asked with a smile: "Is there any news from Beiliang?"

Yanzhi nodded, "Xue Fengnian, the head of the Xue family, saw that Yelvshi was seriously ill. He thought that the time had come and secretly transferred Xue Zonghan to the capital with the intention of clearing the emperor and regaining power. However, he did not expect that Yelvshi was just pretending to be ill, and the newly recruited Xue family My own soldiers turned against you in the face of battle."

Xia Jingyun nodded slowly, "It seems that Yelvshi had a deep meaning when he generously gave the two heads to Junzhou to the Xue family!"

"Well, because of the Xue family's action, Yelvshi had a legitimate reason to take advantage of the situation and directly wiped out all the backbones of the Xue family. At the same time, he deposed Liang Emperor Xue Yi and replaced him with a five-year-old Xue family clan boy. .”

Xia Jingyun sighed, "This is a sign of usurping the throne. Just wait, within three years, as long as Yelvshi is alive, the dynasty will change."

"One more thing."

Rouge suddenly looked at Xia Jingyun with an unnatural expression.

Xia Jingyun raised his eyebrows, "What else are you hiding from me?"

"Yelü Caiqi, Yelv Shi's biological granddaughter, became a director of the Beiliang Court's Chinese business in the name of the representative of the Beiliang Court."

Xia Jingyun was silent for a moment after hearing this, frowning slightly, "Okay, I understand."

After Rouge left, he looked at the north, thinking of the green spring waves under the sad bridge before leaving that night, and sighed quietly.
-

At the end of the third year of Yongping, Dongfang Bai returned to Zhongjing, where he was still loyal.

After not seeing each other for nearly three years, his leg injury has healed, and Dongfang Hong, who was raised by Concubine De herself, can already walk with trembling steps and call him "Emperor Brother" in a sweet voice.

Three years of hardships have written maturity and perseverance on Dongfang Bai's face.

After settling down briefly, he went to the Dingguo Duke's Mansion in person, rewarded Xia Jingyun's two newly born sons, and then talked with Xia Jingyun for a long night.

That night, an emperor who was about to take charge of the government and a powerful official with overwhelming power, who seemed completely incompatible, talked harmoniously and harmoniously at night, holding a candle and making decisions about the entire world in their words and laughter.

A month later, the Queen Mother returned to power, and Dongfang Bai officially took charge.

The transfer of power was so smooth that everyone in the court was secretly surprised.

When those who had read a few history books and thought they had finally seen a good opportunity quickly moved closer to the young emperor, inciting him to eradicate powerful ministers and gather power, they did not expect that the young emperor did not follow the old path of pro-government in the past. The policy has been overhauled and replaced with four words: business as usual.

His two most loyal confidants, Xun Feihong, became Xia Jingyun's "assistant" and began to follow him, learning how this powerful official in the Great Xia court managed the entire world.

Lu Tianchi was thrown into the black ice platform. Under the guidance of Mr. Zhao, he eagerly learned the knowledge that he thought he would never come into contact with in his life.

Daxia did not let the rising momentum come to an abrupt halt because of the emperor's pro-government. On the contrary, Dongfangbai continued to implement the new policy more persistently and persistently.

Until the fifth year of Yongping, Daxia's annual fiscal revenue was 40 million taels, which was almost double that before the New Deal.

Including the contribution of the now fully formed trade route, the total income belonging to the imperial court has reached more than 50 million taels.

The official administration is clear, the public security is stable, there are few refugees, and the official roads are full of cars and horses. The results of the New Deal have begun to show.

The nineteenth day of the first lunar month, Tushan Academy.

The three masters of Tushan, who were already old, invited Xia Jingyun to the academy.

Mr. Linxi said: "Gao Yang, I have an unkind invitation to invite you here today."

Xia Jingyun said quickly: "The old gentleman is being polite, but it doesn't matter."

"Today is Feihong's birthday, and it is also the day of his crowning. I, the three of you, would like to ask you to give him a cousin name. Is it possible?"

Xia Jingyun immediately shook his head, "Aren't you trying to offend me? You three are his teachers. How could I be so arrogant?"

Mr. Wan Lin immediately smiled and said: "Gao Yang, Feihong is following you now. Thanks to your generous teachings, he has also benefited a lot. Although he does not have the name of teacher and student, he is actually a teacher and student. What's more, the three of us are nothing more than rotten scholars. Just talking about words is far inferior to you who have benefited all people. If I can get words from you, it will be of great benefit to his future. I hope you will not refuse."

Mr. Wan Lin's words made it very clear. From a logical point of view, Xia Jingyun really could not find a reason to refuse.

Xun Feihong is now a complete young man. He has been with Xia Jingyun for two years and has been influenced by his ears and eyes. Naturally, he will not lack etiquette. He immediately bowed deeply and said, "Please give Xia Xiang a word."

Xia Jingyun did not refuse this matter. To a certain extent, this was also a means of deeply binding him and Xun Feihong, and it could also ensure the continuity of the policies of the Great Xia court in the future.

He thought for a moment and said slowly: "I once read an ancient book. It is recorded in the ancient book that there is a bird in the south of Fu. It has been without wings for three years, has not flown, has not sounded, and has been silent. However, after three years without wings, it will With long wings, it does not fly or sing, but it will observe the people. Although it does not fly, it will soar to the sky; although it does not make a sound, its sound will be amazing."

He looked at Xun Feihong and said, "Why don't we just call him Yiming."

Xun Feihong immediately thanked him, "Thank you Xia Xiang for the words!"

In March of that year, spring came.

Xun Feihong participated in the imperial examination for the first time, passed the imperial examination, came second in the imperial examination, and was finally selected as the number one scholar by the emperor.

The next day, she was engaged to Xia Ningzhen, Xia Xiang's cousin and sister of Xing'an Hou.

This year, Xun Feihong, a young boy from the countryside, became a blockbuster.

At the end of that year, as expected, Yelvshi deposed the puppet emperor of the Xue family, usurped the throne and established himself, naming the country Liao.

For the monarchs and ministers of the now powerful Daxia, such news that once shocked the world was just a good source of conversation and a discussion with the Ministry of Rites about whether to congratulate him.

Due to different political systems, the Northern and Southern Dynasties have sailed in completely different directions in the flow of the times and under different helmsmen.

In the sixth year of Yongping, the housekeeper Shi Shangyu, who had worked hard at Xia Jingyun's house for five years, ushered in a rapid development in life after passing the test of ability and loyalty. He entered the board of directors of Huaxia Company as a representative of the imperial court, and in the following years During the election, he became the de facto helmsman of Huaxia Company.

Mr. Su and Mr. Zhao completely became officials and did not care about government affairs. They took Mr. Qin and Mr. Yun to live in seclusion by the Dongting Lake.

In the seventh year of Yongping, Bai Yunbian, the imperial censor, resigned and retired to seclusion.

Dongfang Bai refused three times, but Bai Yunbian insisted, and finally agreed on Xia Jingyun's suggestion.

Dongfang Bai also named him the Taibao of the Crown Prince and ordered him to retain his position and become an official. This was the first time for him to become an official with his original position, which became a norm for later generations.

In the tenth year of Yongping, he established the Duke's mansion.

Xia Jingyun, who is middle-aged and has a short mustache on his lips. In addition to his handsomeness, he is also a bit calm and elegant. He stands in the backyard and looks away with his hands behind his back.

"What are you looking at?"

Qin Li walked slowly over, holding a little girl carved in pink and jade in her arms.

Xia Jingyun stretched out his hand to take the little girl over and gently scratched her hand with his short mustache. After making her giggle, he said to Qin Li: "In the backyard, the flowers are blooming and withering. When do you think it will be a flower?" head?"

Qin Li frowned slightly, "The four seasons change, and the truth is always the best, so how can it have any head?"

Xia Jingyun sighed softly, "But our lives have an end."

"Husband, do you think the time has come?"

Xia Jingyun once told them about his future plans, so after hearing this, Qin Li was not surprised or panicked, but just asked softly.

Xia Jingyun hummed, "Now that the world is at peace, everything is in order. Your Majesty is in the prime of his life. In the past few years, he has been very thoughtful in governing. It is time to retreat from the rapids."

He smiled and said, "People's hearts are filled with darkness. If we don't retreat, I'm afraid we won't be able to retreat."

Qin Li nodded, "I'm okay. Sister Feng has just become pregnant with her second child. Should we wait until she is pregnant?"

Xia Jingyun smiled and said, "Of course. How can this matter be settled just by patting your head? There are still many back-up plans to be arranged. You and Yanyan should also tell us, and we can talk about it together tonight."

At the end of the 10th year of Yongping, a shocking news made the ruling and opposition parties of Daxia, who had been singing and dancing happily for nearly ten years, completely numb.

Xia Jingyun, the powerful prime minister of Daxia, who has been in charge for more than ten years, resigned from office.

For a time, there was a lot of discussion within the government and the public.

Some people say that it is necessary to retreat bravely from the rapids and take advantage of the current situation where the monarch and his ministers are in harmony and leave a good impression on each other. Xia Xiang is worthy of being the most resourceful person in the world. The pattern of looking at the problem is really big;

It is also said that His Majesty has been in charge for many years and must be quite dissatisfied with the control of the government by Xia Jingyun and Xia Dang. This may be the secret fight between the uncle and nephew, but the ministers can never compete for the imperial power;

Some people even quietly lamented that Xia Fang should have been more ruthless at the beginning and directly took the bird position. How could he have such a miserable end now?

Amidst the discussion, many officials went to Dingguo Duke's Mansion, hoping to visit Xia Xiang to repay their kindness or to find out more about him.

But their wishful thinking was wrong.

In the Duke Dingguo's mansion, only the servants in the courtyard and Xia Xiang's parents were left.

Outside the city, in a forest on the outskirts, Xia Jingyun and Dongfang Bai stood side by side.

"Uncle, do you really not want to think about it anymore?"

"Is uncle the kind of person with a hot head?"

Xia Jingyun smiled and said, "You have grown up now. You are extremely smart, talented and knowledgeable, and you are not lacking in power and tactics. You are also well aware of the sufferings of the people. After watching these past seven years, my uncle has completely believed that you He will be a very good emperor, what else does uncle have to worry about?"

Dongfang Bai looked sideways at him, "But, today's world was founded by you, and you should enjoy this honor. You left halfway without even a person to see you off. I feel that I owe you too much."

Xia Jingyun shook his head, "What are you thinking about! If you are like the late emperor in the future, after you have achieved a little success, you will be immersed in slanderous words praising virtues, indulge in pleasure, neglect government affairs, and ultimately destroy our achievements in the past ten years. Once that happens, that’s the real debt.”

Dongfang Bai pursed his lips and nodded solemnly.

"Now, you have your own trusted forces, the court is also governed by officials, the treasury is full, and the people live in peace. My uncle hopes that in the future, you can really become an emperor that will be praised by future generations."

"it is good!"

"Brother Chen insists on coming with me, don't blame him."

"How could it be? I wouldn't be at ease without his protection. I will take care of his son."

"Well, that's it. It's freezing cold. Don't get cold. Let's go back."

Dongfang Bai nodded, Xia Jingyun opened his arms, hugged him, patted his back gently, "Let's go!"

"Uncle!"

As soon as Xia Jingyun took a step forward, a shout came from behind him.

He stopped and turned around, Dongfang Bai said seriously: "You believe me."

Xia Jingyun smiled slightly, nodded and turned around.

Watching the convoy slowly leaving, he turned around in despair when there were only a few messy ruts left on the road.

Three days later, two imperial edicts were issued.

Xia Jingyun became the feudal prince of Ning County and became the Grand Master.

Su Yuanshang, who has entered the center, pays homage to the prime minister.

Regarding Xia Jingyun's resignation, Dongfang Bai did not make any additional emphasis. With only these two imperial edicts and one appointment, most of the speculations and worries between the government and the opposition were calmed.

At the beginning of the eleventh year of Yongping, the Empress Dowager Yunqingzhu died.

The emperor was in great mourning and abandoned the court for three days. She was posthumously named Empress Dowager Zhang Xianmingsu and was buried in the late emperor's mausoleum.
-

"It's better to have a good spring day than to have a dream, where the grass is fragrant."

In the beautiful mountain forest, a group of birds flapped their wings, and immediately there were a few childish hums,

When the human voice appeared in the mountain forest, a person immediately came out at the foot of the steps on the other side of the mountain gate.

"I have met you all, Tong Hexiang of Baiyun Academy, and I would like to ask you what you are here for."

Opposite him, a middle-aged man with elegant and handsome appearance, wearing brocade clothes and a short moustache, smiled slightly, took out a jade pendant from his arms and handed it over, "You give this to Chief Guishan, and he will do it naturally." Know.”

The young scholar hesitated for a moment, but after seeing the man's demeanor and the guards behind him, he immediately thought about it and saluted, "Your Excellency, please wait a moment."

After saying that, he walked quickly towards the mountain gate. Not long after, he saw the mountain chief of the academy. He was once an important minister in the Central Committee of Daxia. Now he still wears the white clouds with the false title of Huai'an Marquis and Yushi doctor. "Chief of the mountain, mountain gate." Outside, a visitor came, and the student asked him his name, and he said to give this to the mountain chief, who will naturally know."

Bai Yunbian reached out and took it, then he looked shocked and stood up.

But then, he snorted again and sat back, "Tell them, no more!"

This sudden appearance confused the academy students, but with Baiyunbian's status and prestige, there was no reason for him to question it, so he immediately bowed and left.

Outside the mountain gate, when he anxiously told the middle-aged man opposite him about the chief's reply, the middle-aged man and the guard opposite him did not get angry at all, but laughed together.

The middle-aged man showed an friendly smile, "Did he really say that?"

"Yes. Please come back another day."

The middle-aged man nodded and turned to look at the strong man beside him, "Brother Chen, how long do you think he can last?"

The strong man grinned and said, "I think it will be tea time at most."

As soon as he finished speaking, a neat and sassy figure hurried over with a disciple. In the surprised eyes of the disciple guarding the mountain gate, he saluted the middle-aged man and the strong man who looked like a guard beside him, "Have you ever seen Jian Jian?" Prince Ning, I have met Marquis Ningdu!"

Xia Jingyun stretched out his hand and said, "Sister-in-law, you're welcome. We are all idle clouds and wild cranes now, so there is no need to be formal."

Ye Hongluan said with some embarrassment: "You also know my temper, so don't take it personally."

Xia Jingyun laughed, "But if we don't let us in, we might really get angry!"

Ye Hongluan quickly looked at the disciples on the side, "What are you still doing in a daze? Please quickly invite the prince and Ning Duhou in!"

Xia Jingyun and Chen Fugui walked in, and Ye Hongluan also greeted the carriages.

On the carriage, Su Yanyan, Qin Li, Feng Xiuyun, Xie Yanzhi and others all got out of the carriage and greeted Ye Hongluan with a smile.

Behind them, their respective maids were holding or holding several children, and together with the guards, they slowly followed.

Only a few guards were left to guard the carriage.

The disciple guarding the mountain gate swallowed his saliva, his expression still showing shock.

That's King Jianning! A powerful prime minister who is admired by all the people in the world and is tired of hearing about it every day!

How brave has the mountain chief become? How dare you not see him?

"There is no rain on the mountain road, and people's clothes are wet with green sky. The air in the mountain is really good!"

Xia Jingyun looked around and said with a smile.

The academy disciple who was leading the way was moved in his heart. He lamented that King Jianning was indeed an incomparable poet. He casually recited famous lines. He silently wrote them down and prepared to go back and find a stone to carve them.

The academy has only been under construction for a few years. Although it has the support of Caobang and the Bai family, Baiyunbian is not a hardworking person. After a few years, it has only begun to take shape.

So the three of them didn't go far before they saw Baiyunbian.

"Brother Lexian, you're welcome!"

Xia Jingyun knew about his arrogant temperament and did not deliberately try to show his identity. He smiled and held his hands in front of him, greeting him proactively.

Bai Yunbian snorted arrogantly, but returned the salute in an upright manner, and then extended his hand to invite the two of them into the house.

"Brother Lexian, why are your ears red?"

Bai Yunbian paused and turned to look at him, "Do you believe I will kick you out?"

"Do not believe!"

Xia Jingyun smiled and sat on the chair, as if he were the master.

Chen Fugui couldn't help but laugh when he saw this scene. As the only person in the world who could securely take advantage of Young Master Bai, His Highness Prince Jing relied on taking action whenever he disagreed, while his own Young Master was simply thick-skinned.

Baiyunbian couldn't really chase people away, so he had to sit down and start making tea to entertain the guests.

Holding the teacup, Xia Jingyun smiled and said, "Why did you leave so early? If you were in charge of the court, I would be less troubled now."

Bai Yunbian shook his head, "What's so good about that? It's enough that I proved that I can be a high-ranking official in the court, and I can do it very well. As a central minister, I have to worry about the impact even if I want to curse people, how uncomfortable is that?" Look, I opened this academy and you can scold whoever you want, how nice it is!"

The corner of Xia Jingyun's mouth twitched, "I must be the one you scold the most."

Bai Yunbian laughed dryly, "Isn't this what you want too!"

"Okay, it's all in the past. Are you okay here?"

"It's very good. The scenery is beautiful. My unpromising father went to the center to fill the gap. No one cares about me. It's close to both families. The child has recently been thrown into the Cao Gang to hang out. In the future, he will probably become like his father. Just as versatile in both civil and military affairs.”

Xia Jingyun and Chen Fugui both smiled slightly, it was good and it hadn't changed yet.

"What about you? Your first two sons went back to inherit the Su family and the Qin family. The eldest son born to Mrs. Qin should be about eight years old, right? Didn't you take him with you?"

Xia Jingyun shook his head, "He does not have such a happy life. He will enter the court in the future, so he was sent to Yunmengzhou to learn skills from his grandfathers." "I heard that Jiang Yuhu has given birth. Three already?"

"Princess Jing used to practice martial arts, so I think she is in good health."

"That's right, whose wife doesn't know how to do it a few times? Oh, I forgot, your wife doesn't know how to do it."

Xia Jingyun looked at him speechlessly. After all these years, you might as well not have grown up your mouth!

After chatting for a few words, the two parties brought their family members to have a meal together.

After a night's rest, Xia Jingyun and his entourage said goodbye and left early the next morning.

The arrogant Bai Yunbian personally sent Xia Jingyun out of the mountain gate this time.

The two comrades, who had been in love with each other for more than ten years, waved goodbye in the early morning fog.

They all know that this farewell may be an eternal farewell.

Bai Yunbian turned around and stood with his head raised for a while. Under the teasing eyes of his wife, he snorted and walked back to his residence.

As soon as he reached the door, a disciple came over and handed a box to Bai Yunbian, "Mountain Chief, before King Jianning left, he asked the students to hand this to you."

Bai Yunbian took it in surprise, wondering what the hell that bitch was doing.

Entering the room, he placed the box on the table and slowly opened it.

There was actually a jug of wine inside. He picked it up and it was so heavy that it turned out to be a jug of wine.

There was a letter at the bottom of the box. He slowly picked it up. It was unsealed, so it was obviously not a secret.

There was only a thin note in the letter. He pulled it out, looked away, and felt his heart being punched hard.

There are only three lines on the paper:

[I wanted to buy sweet-scented osmanthus and drink it with me, but it turned out to be different. I was a young man traveling. 】

It was as if a big hand pulled his thoughts back to the autumn of more than ten years ago when he was traveling after passing the national examination.

At that time, they were just two ordinary men with nothing but high spirits.

Now, they have been drifting in the world for ten years. They are used to seeing the flash of swords and the shadows of swords, and are tired of the arguing with drums and horns. Even if they travel together again and raise glasses to drink together, how can they go back to the simple but passionate young Jinshi.

Missing is like the undulating water in the river we first saw, continuous and immersing in people slowly.

At some point, he had opened the pot of wine, and the wine filled his heart with sadness, making him even more sad.

"gentlemen?"

In the end, it was his direct disciple's knock on the door that woke him up from those long memories.

He covered the jug, put the note into the box solemnly, and then said, "Come in."

"Sir, eh? Did you drink, sir?"

Bai Yunbian knew that he couldn't hide the smell of wine and his complexion, so he pursed his lips and said, "I was upset, so I took a few sips."

The disciple said with a smile: "It is said that although Sir and King Jianning have a personal relationship, they have different political views and have always been at odds with each other. Now it seems that the rumors are so false!"

"How can it be false? I just can't stand him!"

Bai Yunbian snorted coldly, "A minister has the power of military and political affairs, so that the people of the world only know that there is a minister but not an emperor. He is domineering and arrogant, and has no respect for the etiquette of ministers. It is simply rebellious! It is because I have to see him that I am impatient to drink!"

Seeing that the horse's leg was slapped with flattery, the disciple quickly backed away, forgetting what happened before.

Bai Yunbian looked at the horizon, and before his emotion fully blossomed, he was suddenly startled.

No, that bitch has given birth to so many children. Doesn’t he lose if he only has one son?

That's not possible. There are four people in this life, but there is only one person on my side. How can I survive this life!

Huh? Isn't this just an honest reason to have several concubines?

Being drunk and timid, Bai Yunbian stood up, shook his clothes, and went to the backyard with his head held high.

Not long after, his howling like a pig was heard in the backyard.

"Madam, I was wrong! I was wrong!"

"I just said it casually! Don't take it seriously! I was really wrong!"
-

The long and narrow peninsula east of Yuyan State now has a new name: Liaodong.

After the expeditionary army destroyed more than a dozen countries on the peninsula, large and small, under the auspices of Xia Jingyun, a vassal state of Daxia was established with the expeditionary army as the backbone, and the country's name was Chaoxia.

Today, in the Chaoxia Kingdom, water and land trade is very prosperous.

The land trade routes out of Daxia Yuyanzhou and Daliao Guanshan Road are all smooth. Daliao only needs to pay a little more to deal with the traffic of corrupt officials.

Maritime transportation was vigorously promoted during Xia Jingyun's administration in the past ten years.

Because of its convenience and large carrying capacity, it quickly became the first choice for bulk trade after finding a familiar and safe route.

Therefore, the capital of Chaoxia Kingdom also took advantage of the situation and set it in Ryugyong City, which is located next to its largest port, Ryugyong Port.

On this day, a large ship slowly arrived at Ryugyong Port, and a group of people slowly got off the ship.

Compared with the Baiyun Academy that went to Longshou State before, there was only one more veiled female family member in the team.

But looking at their figure and demeanor, they are all top-notch human beings.

The group settled down at the inn in the city, and Chen Fugui took a letter and went to the palace.

About half an hour later, a carriage slowly arrived in front of the inn. A figure wearing ordinary local clothes and a bamboo hat got out of the carriage together with Chen Fugui, walked quickly into the inn, and came to Xia Jingyun's room.

When the bamboo hat was taken off, Xiao Fengshan's familiar face appeared in front of Xia Jingyun.

"I've met King Jianning!"

Xia Jingyun stretched out his hand to support him and said with a smile: "You are now the majestic master of a country. I, an idle cloud and wild crane, cannot afford this great gift from you."

Xiao Fengshan shook his head, "Now I can eat well, sleep peacefully, be full of ambitions, and have a place for all my abilities. Wherever I put them to use, it all depends on the merits of the prince. No matter what position you are, to me personally, you are All of them are kind to me."

Xia Jingyun no longer dwelled on this issue, "Is everything okay in the country now?"

Xiao Fengshan hummed, "The imperial court gave a lot of support, especially the several wealthy domestic families who were assigned and voluntarily immigrated, which also played a big role. What's more, in the past few years, with the development of trade, the lives of civilians here have also changed. It’s many times better than before. The only people who may have opinions or grievances are the nobles here, but now, they have no objections.”

Xia Jingyun raised his eyebrows, "What's going on?"

Xiao Fengshan smiled slightly, and Xia Jingyun understood immediately.

I almost forgot, this man is not only an outstanding politician, but also a battlefield killer. It is easy to deal with such a blind person.

Xiao Sanlang, who is both civil and military, is not just a flattering compliment. .

The two chatted for a while, and after Xia Jingyun rejected the proposal to go to the palace, Xiao Fengshan personally stayed and had a drink with him before leaving.

Then everyone stayed here for three days, looked at the scenery, and planned to leave.

Before leaving, Xiao Fengshan came to see him off again in disguise.

The two of them stood at the pier, looking at the surging river in front of them, looking at the workers rushing back and forth, and looking at this prosperous scene, their expressions were full of emotion.

"Life is really unpredictable. When I was eighteen years old, even if I used the most exaggerated imagination in the world, I would never have imagined the fate I am facing now."

After hearing Xiao Fengshan's heartfelt emotion, Xia Jingyun smiled, "Among all the results, as long as you follow your original intention, it's not bad, right?"

Xiao Fengshan looked at the river in front of him and sighed softly, "It's a pity that there is no hope of burying his bones in his hometown in this life, so he can only look across the river."

Xia Jingyun smiled and said, "Remember what I said before that I still owe you two more poems?"

Xiao Fengshan nodded, "Of course I remember. One flute and one sword ended the business, and I lived up to my reputation for fifteen years. Over the years, this poem has given me a lot of encouragement and kept me from forgetting my original intention."

When he faked his death and fled to Northern Xinjiang incognito, Xia Jingyun sent him these two sentences, and also told him that if he was worthy, he would give him two more sentences in the future.

Xia Jingyun took out a note from his arms and put it into his palm.

"Let's say goodbye and take care of each other."

Xiao Fengshan said goodbye solemnly, then watched the ship sail away, lowered his head and opened the note in his hand.

[There is no need for a mulberry land to bury bones; there is no place in life without green hills. 】

Xiao Fengshan was silent for a long time, then raised his head again, looking at the ship with only a black shadow like a grain of rice left, and sighed, "There are such gods in the world!"
-

Beiliang is now called Liaodong.

Outside the palace, a carriage slowly stopped, and a woman stepped out of the carriage.

She has a peerless appearance, a graceful figure and is full of healthy wildness, but her movements are full of aloofness, keeping strangers away from her, and her unsmiling look clearly has the words "love and love" written on her face.

Seeing her arrival, the palace guards did not dare to stop her, and all saluted, "I have met Princess Anle!"

Yelu Caiqi nodded slightly and walked straight in. But to her surprise, for the first time, she was stopped at the door of the imperial study room.

"Princess, please wait a moment. Your Majesty and His Highness the Crown Prince are receiving distinguished guests and have asked no one to disturb them."

Yelucaiqi frowned slightly. Is there any distinguished guest that his grandfather and father should jointly receive? No one is allowed to disturb him.

Although she was doubtful, she was no longer as reckless as before after ten years of experience in a Chinese company, and she just silently went to the side hall to wait.

After a while, a burst of footsteps sounded from far to near.

Yelu Caiqi turned his head and saw a face that had appeared countless times in his dreams, but never expected to be seen here.

Xia Jingyun was covered in skylight and smiling. He took out a piece of letter paper from his arms and said, "Ten years ago, I wrote a poem. I have delayed giving it to you until now. I don't know if it will be too late."

Yelucaiqi's heart, which he thought had been frozen, suddenly began to beat wildly.

She reached out tremblingly, took it slowly, and opened the yellowed paper.

[Red beans are born in the southern country, and spring will happen. I hope you will pick more of them, this is the most loved thing. 】

At this moment, she seemed to have seen the time when Xia Jingyun wrote this poem eleven years ago when he left Zhongjing.

"The following was added by me later, so it can be considered as a real gift to you."

Xia Jingyun's gentle words made Yelu Caiqi lower his head and look back.

【If you don’t miss lovesickness in your life, you will miss lovesickness, which will harm lovesickness. The body is like floating clouds, the heart is like flying catkins, the air is like gossamer, and there is a lingering fragrance in the sky. I hope that the rich wanderer will do it. When will the syndrome come? When the lamp is half dim, when the moon is half bright. 】

Isn't this everything she has experienced these years?

Seeing each other is as good as not seeing each other!

She had thought more than once that if she were to do it again, she would definitely not choose to meet the man who had harmed her life!

Looking at Yelu Caiqi who was in tears, Xia Jingyun said softly: "I'm sorry, I'm late."

The prairie girl who dared to love and hate threw herself into his arms, "You bastard!"

As he spoke, he bit him hard on the shoulder!

While Xia Jingyun gasped in pain, outside the palace door, Yelvshi and Yelude sighed at the same time.
-

In the twelfth year of Yongping in the Great Xia Dynasty, Yelvshi, the Taizu of Northern Liao Dynasty, died and Yelvde succeeded to the throne.

In the 18th year of Yongping in the Great Xia Dynasty, Emperor Dongfang Bai of Yongping, who had sat on the throne for 18 years and had been in charge for 15 years, single-handedly created the powerful empire that has brought peace to the world and ushered in a prosperous era, made a decision that shocked the world. .

Zen position.

It is said that the night before the decree was issued, Dongfang Bai knelt in the ancestral temple for a day and a night.

Not only the ministers tried to persuade him to stay, but even Dongfang Hong, who wanted to take the throne, also cried bitterly to persuade him to stay.

This young man who was single-handedly raised by the former Queen Mother until he was ten years old and who has established the most important values ​​​​in life is as smart and kind as his elder brother. He has been a brother and sister for many years, and now he has no joy at all because he is about to ascend the throne. meaning.

Dongfang Bai held Dongfang Hong's hand holding the corner of his clothes, looked at the officials, and said seriously: "My decision is not reckless. There are four reasons."

"First, I have no heirs. According to what the imperial doctor said, perhaps it was the original poison that damaged the origin, resulting in many concubines but no heirs."

"Secondly, I have been in charge for fifteen years. I have worked hard and achieved a small amount of success. As my prestige has grown, my mentality has gradually changed. I am already too far away from my people. I have almost forgotten them. It's hard work, and I'm almost intoxicated by the praises of the whole dynasty. Everyone, think about the late emperor. In the first half of his life, the late emperor worked hard to govern, and the country seemed to be reviving. But what happened in the end? In ten years, everything was destroyed. Clean it up! Leave behind a mess full of holes, ridicule in the history books of future generations, and infamy for eternity. Do you want me to end up like that?"

"Third, I have achieved the great ambition I made at the beginning, and I have a clear conscience in this position! Nowadays, there are free official schools in various places, there are Salesian bureaus that adopt orphans and abandoned children, and provide relief to widows and widowers. The country has already fulfilled It has been eight years since I reported anyone who died of freezing or starvation. My merits have been fulfilled, and I am worthy of my ancestors and the country!"

"As for the last one, I believe that my younger brother can inherit my ambition and lead Daxia to continue to move forward along the current good track and move forward bravely towards that magnificent goal!"

"My decision has been made, dear friends, there is no need to say more!"

Three days later, Dongfang Hong succeeded to the throne and appointed Jiang Wugou, the righteous daughter of Prince Jing who had grown up with his childhood sweetheart, as his queen.

The Yongping reign name was used until the end of the year, and it was changed to Yuan Zhenguan the following year.

Just three days after Guanyin became queen, a fast horse rushed into the bamboo forest.

He sent a letter to Jiang Yuhu who was taking his three sons with him.

[General, seeing words is like meeting each other. 】

[After several years of separation, is the general still safe? I have traveled far and wide, and I have seen peace and tranquility in all parts of the world. There is no war or chaos. Although the imperial court has contributed to calming the people, it is also due to the general's intimidation. 】

[The road to the Western Regions is now full of merchants, and many new and strange species are introduced, all due to the general's strategy; the advancement of Nanyang has countless products, but there is really no help from the army. A general serves a country with the greatest merit. The Manchu armies headed by the Wudang Army also made great contributions. 】

[Today’s letter is sent with a poem, not only to congratulate the general, but also to congratulate the soldiers of the world headed by the general. 】

[Glow-in-the-dark cup of fine grape wine. If you want to drink, play the pipa immediately. Don't laugh when you are lying drunk on the battlefield. How many people have fought in ancient times. 】

[Yours sincerely, Xia Jingyun. 】

Seeing their always stern father holding the letter in shock, the three children, whose legs were numb from standing, were quietly lazing about while exchanging glances curiously, wondering who could give their father such a shock.

"What happened? Whose letter is it?"

Princess Jing Wu Qinghuang came over holding an infant girl and asked with concern.

"Who else, who else in this world can be like him!"

Jiang Yuhu slowly handed the letter to his wife and then took his youngest daughter, "Tomorrow I will have someone make a rubbing of this poem and then frame it."

Although Wu Qinghuang was shocked after reading it, he couldn't help but asked curiously: "He also gave you poems before, but why didn't he see you like this?"

Jiang Yuhu shook his head, "This is different. I like what he gave me, but I admire this one the most."

After saying that, he suddenly stretched out his foot and kicked each of the three lazy bastards on the buttocks. After kicking them till they ate shit, he practiced the next sentence for half an hour, then hugged his little daughter and kissed her one by one. He walked aside with a smile.

"Life is getting lonelier!"
-

In the first year of Zhenguan in the Great Xia Dynasty, there was a place in the mountains in Guangling Prefecture.

About three or four years ago, the mountain was sealed by the local court, and a villa was built on the mountain. Li Zhiyi, the governor of Guangling Prefecture, visited the site in person from time to time to supervise the progress of the project.

Since half a year ago, countless supplies have been quietly transported here.

Today, this blocked mountain welcomed a special group of visitors.

They entered the villa unimpeded.

Along the way, they saw wooden tracks running four-wheeled trolleys, huge wooden levers, glass lenses polished into strange shapes, square clear pools of different heights, and many strange tools.

When they came to the gate of the villa, a figure walked out and looked at the visitor with a smile as warm and innocent as before.

"Mother, uncle."
-

Liyu Port was once the first stop for Guanglingzhou to depart from the Southeast Asia. Now it has become astonishingly prosperous due to trade and immigration.

Zeng Kee Restaurant, as the largest restaurant in Lei Yue Port, was overcrowded as usual today.

In the middle of the lobby, on a stage set up, a storyteller was talking happily.

"At that time, King Jianning was just a small admonishment official, and his actual job was that of a small doctor in the household department, but Xiao Fengshan still didn't let him go! To say that the thief was also an outstanding person, he saw that Jianning The king was so extraordinary that he just sent out thousands of elite soldiers to completely surround the county government office where King Jianning was temporarily staying! Not to mention a single person coming in and out, not even a fly could fly in!"

"But how could King Jianning be a mere mortal? With his talent that reaches heaven and earth, he directly invited the fairy lantern, sat in it, and flew out from the county government office, leaving the gang of rebellious officials and traitors who were intent on causing trouble. They were dumbfounded, looking at the lantern and sighing. Then I realized that destiny was not in my hands! That’s how the Marquis of Huai’an persuaded him to surrender! As the saying goes, immortals come to earth to help the world and save people! The hearts of rebellious ministers are vulnerable!”

"it is good!"

There was a burst of cheers in the hall.

A man sitting at the table by the window muttered, "That's nonsense. If it really flies, it won't hit the target."

But as soon as he finished speaking, the people around him stared at him angrily.

The old storyteller on the stage spoke again: "Although King Jianning escaped from death after being trapped by a dragon in the sea, a sudden change occurred in Zhongjing City. His Majesty was assassinated and rebels usurped the throne. At that time, Concubine De was in the palace. A number of relatives and friends of King Jianning also fell into the hands of the enemy. The city of Zhongjing even set up a dragnet, waiting for King Jianning to fall into the trap. How would King Jianning make his choice, and how did he ultimately bring order to the chaos, support the late emperor's ascension to the throne, and quell the rebellion?"

He was stunned and said, "If you want to know what happened next time, let's listen to the explanation next time!"

There was a burst of urging and laughter and curses all around.

After everyone scolded for a while, the old storyteller slowly said: "Everyone, now in Daxia, we have conquered the barbarians externally, and the people are safe internally. Everyone has adequate food and clothing, cultivates their own land, and lives in their own place. It is a scene of peace. But you, It can be seen that just twenty years ago, the world was still full of wars, and the imperial treasury was almost empty. Refugees were everywhere, people died of hunger everywhere, and the little old man had seen it with his own eyes. And the aristocratic families are closing their doors to protect themselves, and the whole world is almost on the verge of collapse. Why can such a scene happen in just twenty years?"

"All of this is a good start from our King Jianning! He took charge of the power, trusted King Jing, and gave his full support. Then the frontier was safe and the war was extinguished. He implemented the New Deal and robbed the powerful families from their hands. The land was brought back and distributed to ordinary people like us, so that we can live and work in peace and contentment. Then we united with Beiliang to open up trade routes. The steady flow of money gave the court the confidence to do things. At the same time, we reformed the administration and punished corrupt officials. This is why we have so many good officials today."

"Some people say that he is domineering and arrogant, disrespectful of His Majesty, and unworthy of his duties. Some people even say that he is a powerful minister and should not be praised."

"But look at it, you can afford wine and meat at every table now. Isn't this worthy of praise?"

"On the street outside this building, there are naked homeless people begging for a living. Isn't this worthy of praise?"

"How many of us has this prosperous Liyu Port fed us and given us a good life? Isn't this worthy of praise?"

"Isn't it worth praising those envoys from foreign and small countries who keep coming and going, and their humility and obedience?"

"In today's world, I, Daxia, am just like Gao Yang in the sky. Why? It's because of King Jianning! Xia Gaoyang! This name is Daxia's destiny!"

"If all powerful officials are like King Jianning, then I hope there will be more powerful officials like this!"

"If only King Jianning is like this, then I would like to call him the most powerful official in history!"

After the speech, the whole hall burst into applause.

The middle-aged man by the window pursed his lips, "This is too impressive. Xia Jingyun just did some trivial things, and all the credit is his."

As soon as he finished speaking, a man sitting next to him slapped the table, pointed at him and shouted angrily: "You guy, I've tolerated you for a long time!"

"From the beginning, you have been very dissatisfied with King Jianning and have repeatedly made taunts! What are your intentions? Are you a citizen of my Daxia!"

"The enemy is my fellow Daxia people. An Youbu admires King Jianning! You can't be a spy from the Northern Liao Dynasty!"

"Everyone, catch him and report him to the police!"

There was a sudden chaos in the restaurant lobby.

After a while, the panting Chen Fugui put Xia Jingyun down with lingering fear, and then the two looked at each other and smiled.

"Young master, you are probably the only one in the world who was beaten because you tried to dissuade others from praising yourself, right?"

Xia Jingyun shook his head helplessly, "These people are exaggerating!"

Chen Fugui said seriously: "Young master, you deserve it!"

Xia Jingyun glanced at him speechlessly, "You are not learning well every day! Let's go, board the ship, they will probably be back soon!"

Above the sea, there are vast expanse of blue waves, which makes you feel relaxed and happy.

Xia Jingyun lay quietly on the deck of the second floor of the ship, looking at the surrounding scenery in a daze.

In this world, no matter whether it is a country or an individual, there is no sun that never sets.

The rise and fall of chaos, birth, old age, illness and death are all reincarnations that cannot be escaped.

However, it was enough that they had illuminated this land.

"What are you thinking about?"

A gentle voice sounded, and Yun Qingzhu walked up to him, "The sea is windy, why don't you go in?"

"It's nothing, just in a daze."

Xia Jingyun stood up with a smile, took her into his arms, lowered his head and tasted her red lips.

"My sisters saw me and thought I was eating alone!"

"What do you want to do? Being happy alone is not as good as being happy with everyone?"

"You are so old, you are not ashamed even if you are ashamed!"

"Let's go! Let's go inside and talk!"

The big ship cut through the waves, and the waves beat against the hull.

Snapped!

Snapped!

Snapped!

(Complete the book.)

(End of this chapter)