Chapter 17

A figure appeared.

He looked to be in his fifties, with half his hair white, a stern face, but still exuding a certain heroism, suggesting he must have been quite handsome in his youth.

Most importantly, it was his aura.

He sat on the imperial palanquin, and even in that seated position, he emitted a terrifying aura.

This was the imperial might.

Even a mere flicker of his eyelid exuded an intimidating presence.

Emperor Yongsheng.

A man who truly climbed out of a mountain of corpses, an emperor on horseback.

Gu Jinnian had some understanding of Emperor Yongsheng, after all, he was his uncle.

This Emperor Yongsheng, in his youth, followed the First Ancestor in quelling rebellions, at the age of seven, he was already on the battlefield, learning warfare from a group of famous generals.

At ten, he killed enemies, and after coming of age, he achieved numerous feats.

Even the Crown Prince at the time could not match his prowess. However, after the First Ancestor established the empire, he favored Confucianism and the succession of the eldest, and naturally, Emperor Yongsheng missed the throne.

Unfortunately, fate played a cruel trick. What was thought to be a settled matter took an unexpected turn when the Crown Prince fell ill and died young.

In the end, the First Ancestor overcame numerous obstacles and insisted on enthroning the Grand Prince, who was Emperor Yongsheng's nephew.

The subsequent events were simpler. One feared his uncle's rebellion, the other knew it was inevitable but couldn't swallow his pride, and thus, the uncle and nephew engaged in decades of conflict.

In the end, the winner was Emperor Yongsheng.

Twelve years have passed, but the people of the empire have not forgotten this matter. Perhaps because of this, the emperor has been diligent and personally involved in governing the country, trying to prove himself.

To prove to the people that his father chose the wrong person.

Of course, this is just the common people's speculation. No one knows the true intentions.

The emperor's will is hard to fathom.

However, when Gu Jinnian's gaze met his, the ruler of Daxia also looked over.

Their eyes met.

Just one glance made Gu Jinnian feel uneasy, and the other extended his hand, causing the imperial palanquin to stop.

Princess Ningyue, also noticed her brother.

"Jie, be sweet when you speak."

Princess Ningyue reminded him again, then pulled Gu Jinnian towards Emperor Yongsheng.

"Ningyue pays respects to Your Majesty."

"Jinnian greets Uncle."

As the voices sounded, Princess Ningyue was already in front of the Emperor of Daxia.

"Rise."

The Emperor of Daxia's voice rang out, and the next moment, his gaze fell on Gu Jinnian, followed by a cold snort.

This made Gu Jinnian somewhat frustrated. Isn't it said that uncles dote on their nephews? Why start with a cold snort?

Gu Jinnian didn't dare speak, but he grumbled inwardly.

"Ningyue, why have you come to the palace?"

The Emperor of Daxia withdrew his gaze and looked at Princess Ningyue. He knew the reason, but he asked anyway.

"Your Majesty."

"Your younger sister has come to the palace for two reasons: to bring Jinnian to meet the Empress Dowager, and to seek justice."

Princess Ningyue spoke without hesitation, not minding the presence of the servants.

"Seek justice? What kind of justice?"

The Emperor of Daxia glanced at his sister, his face showing no other emotion, only some displeasure.

"Your Majesty, a few days ago, Jie was pushed into the water by Yang Kai's daughter, nearly drowning, and she spread rumors that Jie had made advances first. Jie has now recovered his memory and recalled the entire incident."

"The whole matter is a fabrication by Yang Kai's daughter, distorting the truth."

"Now the whole city is talking about it, especially the scholars, who are more sharp-tongued than ever. If this isn't stopped, it will become a settled matter, and Jie will unjustly bear the blame."

Princess Ningyue didn't care about her brother's expression, saying what needed to be said, regardless of whether he liked it or not.

Sure enough, these words made the Emperor of Daxia even colder.

"Unjustly bear the blame?"

"Your son, spoiled by you, not only causes trouble outside, but even in the palace, I often hear of Jinnian's misdeeds."

"Upon recovering his strength, he almost got into a fight with a disciple of the Minister of Rites, calling the Minister of Rites 'old and should die.'"

"Is this the good son you have raised?"

The Emperor of Daxia's voice lacked malice but carried a hint of anger.

The surrounding eunuchs and maids remained silent, but they weren't particularly panicked.

After all, anyone with eyes could see that the emperor wouldn't be angry with his nephew. This was just a way to discipline him.

Real anger wouldn't look like this.

Hearing these words, Gu Jinnian immediately understood.

What a scoundrel, Zhou Ning actually reported to his uncle?

And to his own uncle?

Well, well.

Gu Jinnian thought he would handle it like an adult, even if he was unhappy, he would resolve it in an adult manner.

But this?

Just a few insults and he reports it?

Bastard.

Wait for me.

A surge of anger rose in Gu Jinnian's heart. It wasn't that he didn't allow others to report, but this matter was clearly the other party's fault. He insulted her, and that was that.

A grudge was formed, and they would see who had the upper hand in the future.

But he didn't expect a direct report, and for this matter to reach the emperor's ears, it was no small matter.

No matter how big the matter, once it reaches the emperor's ears, it won't be too big.

But no matter how small the matter, once it reaches the emperor's ears, it won't be too small.

This was very annoying.

Indirectly damaging his relationship with his uncle.

"Is this true?"

Princess Ningyue didn't know about this matter and looked at Gu Jinnian.

Feeling his mother's gaze, Gu Jinnian remained calm.

"Mother."

"It was Master Zhou who started the trouble first, and Manager Wang can vouch for it."

Gu Jinnian replied calmly.

Upon hearing this, a hint of worry flashed in Princess Ningyue's eyes. After all, her son was already controversial, and if he caused more trouble, it would be hard to get out of the mess.

"Master Zhou started the trouble first?"

"You are a student, why would he trouble you?"

"Why doesn't he trouble me?"

The Emperor of Daxia said with some impatience.

But before Princess Li could speak, Gu Jinnian spoke first.

"He is a bit arrogant, but not stupid. Troubling you would be courting death, wouldn't it?"

Gu Jinnian muttered.

Upon hearing this, the Emperor of Daxia was taken aback.

Speechless.

What a bold kid, even daring to talk back to the emperor?

"Nie, don't speak rashly."

Princess Ningyue said, but it was just a formality, as she thought her son was right.

"You are spoiled."

The Emperor of Daxia said with some impatience.

"Uncle, that's not fair."

"You left home at seven to fight on the battlefield, and I just insulted a few scholars. What's the big deal?"

"Besides, I have the right on my side. If you don't believe me, let him come and I'll confront him."

Gu Jinnian continued.

He knew he had to be cautious, but he also knew this matter had to be clarified, or he would leave a bad impression on the emperor.

"You, how did you suddenly become so eloquent?"

Hearing Gu Jinnian's response, Emperor Yongsheng wasn't angry but curious about his sudden eloquence.

After all, what Gu Jinnian said wasn't bad, but something he was proud of.

"Uncle."

"The sage said, 'A gentleman values virtue, a small man values profit.'"

"I don't think this is being eloquent, just defending the honor of the Gu family and the imperial family."

Gu Jinnian said calmly. He was not yet of age, so he could call his uncle, and this also helped to build a closer relationship.

These words were from the Analects, meaning a gentleman values virtue, a small man values profit.

Master Zhou troubled me because he is a student of the Minister of Rites, just trying to curry favor with him.

Upon hearing this, everyone was curious, even the Emperor of Daxia showed a hint of interest.

After all, Gu Jinnian was a notorious troublemaker in both the Gu family and the imperial family, and it was surprising to hear such a reasonable statement.

Incredible.

Compared to his previous remarks, this one was much more meaningful, like a scholar.

But surprise aside, education was still necessary.

"Even so, as a student, how could you say such disrespectful words and curse the Minister of Rites? Why?"

Emperor Yongsheng asked.

Gu Jinnian, sensing his uncle's affection and lack of complete bias, spoke boldly.

"Uncle, I did this because a gentleman speaks the truth."

"Moreover, if a child is not taught, it is the father's fault."

"Master Zhou was at fault first, and as a teacher of the Minister of Rites, he bears responsibility."

Gu Jinnian answered.

This time, the Emperor of Daxia was truly surprised.

When did his nephew become so eloquent?

Speaking of gentlemen, he had some substance. Could it be that he had a breakthrough after his illness?

But as an elder and the Emperor of Daxia, he couldn't be so casual.

"Loss is a blessing. Sometimes, a little tolerance can go a long way."

The Emperor of Daxia said slowly.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jinnian felt helpless.

Wasn't this pure moral coercion?

"Uncle, then I wish you a sea of blessings."

Gu Jinnian lowered his head and muttered.

Emperor Yongsheng: "......"

The eunuchs: "......"

Instantly, a surge of resentment gathered and formed a fruit on an ancient tree, several times larger than before.

This surprised Gu Jinnian.

Indeed, the emperor's resentment is valuable.

Princess Ningyue was also speechless. What a troublemaker, how could he speak like that?

"Enough, enough."

"I happen to need to see Yang Kai for some official business. I will handle this matter."

"But remember, no matter what, do not speak rashly. Jinnian, you are not yet of age, so I won't say much. But if you continue to act recklessly, don't blame me for personally disciplining you."

"Ningyue, take Jinnian to see the Empress Dowager."

Emperor Yongsheng said, truly speechless by Gu Jinnian's response. Who blesses like that?

I said loss is a blessing, and you give me a sea of blessings?

What a smooth talker.

"That won't trouble Your Majesty. I will take my leave."

Princess Ningyue bowed again and left with Gu Jinnian, understanding the emperor's meaning.

"Nephew, I will take my leave. Uncle, don't overwork yourself with state affairs."

Gu Jinnian spoke obediently, bringing a sense of relief to the Emperor of Daxia.

Though he was strict earlier, it was because his nephew was playful, and as an elder, he had to educate him.

Especially as an emperor.

But at heart, Gu Jinnian was his only nephew, and he truly cared for him.

As Gu Jinnian and others walked away.

Emperor Yongsheng's gaze became calm, his face devoid of any smile.

"Wei Xian."

"Tomorrow, take my imperial edict to the Lantern Bureau. There are some unsavory voices in the capital."

"I don't want to hear such gossip anymore."

"Also, familiarize yourself with the Lantern Bureau with Liu Yan to avoid any procedural issues in the future."

He spoke, his words carrying various meanings.

The eunuchs kneeling on both sides showed great surprise, but they kept their heads down, their excitement barely contained.

About two hours later.

Gu Jinnian followed his mother to the Zhaixin Palace.

This was where the Empress Dowager resided.

Upon Princess Ningyue's arrival, a maid had been waiting outside the palace. Seeing Princess Ningyue, she immediately greeted her.

Entering the palace, the exotic flowers and scenery left Gu Jinnian in awe.

The palace was always the most luxurious building, with each palace far surpassing a duke's mansion.

After a brief tour.

Gu Jinnian arrived at the main hall of the palace.

Stepping into the hall, he saw an elderly woman with a kind face, holding a scripture, squinting to read it carefully.

The old woman wore a blue dragon robe, with a nine-jade hairpin and a string of pearls, looking extremely noble.

This was the Empress Dowager of Daxia, Empress Dowager Zhou, who had served the First Ancestor and was no ordinary person.

Before Princess Li could speak, Gu Jinnian ran over.

"Jinnian pays respects to Grandmother."

"Wishing Grandmother a sea of blessings and a mountain of longevity."

Gu Jinnian smiled innocently, speaking sweetly, surprising Princess Li.

She had brought Gu Jinnian here before, and though he was close to his grandmother, he had never been this way.

But this was a good thing, and she was pleased, not minding the details.

Gu Jinnian was straightforward.

Who was this?

The Empress Dowager of Daxia.

Who didn't know that Emperor Yongsheng valued filial piety? In the entire Daxia, she was the second most important person, and in some matters, the first.

If he didn't try to win her favor, he must be crazy.

"Jie, you're here?"

"Oh, let Grandmother take a look."

Empress Dowager Zhou, who was reading, looked up upon hearing Gu Jinnian's voice.

Seeing Gu Jinnian, her smile grew several times brighter.

One thing to note, Gu Jinnian was so favored in the Gu family and Princess Ningyue's status was so high.

Mainly because the current Empress Dowager particularly liked Gu Jinnian.

No one understood this.

You say it's generational affection, but the Crown Prince is also the Empress Dowager's grandson, yet he isn't particularly favored.

Perhaps because of his age.

But there is also a Grand Prince.

However, everyone in the Zhaixin Palace knew that Empress Dowager Zhou favored this grandson the most.

This was an open secret.

"Ningyue pays respects to Mother Empress."

"Wishing Mother Empress a sea of blessings and a mountain of longevity."

At this moment, Princess Li also approached and greeted Empress Dowager Zhou.

"Good, good, good."

Empress Dowager Zhou was extremely pleased but didn't even look at her daughter, instead pulling Gu Jinnian, her face full of concern.

"Oh, my good grandson, why have you lost so much weight?"

"Are you better now?"

"Is there anything wrong? Should Grandmother have the imperial physician check you?"

Empress Dowager Zhou looked at Gu Jinnian with concern, her old hands holding him, showing great affection.

"Grandmother, Jie is fine now."

"But Grandmother, you should take good care of yourself. On the way here, Mother told me that when Jie was ill, Grandmother didn't eat or drink. This can harm your health, so please take care."

Gu Jinnian spoke, showing concern for his grandmother.

Indeed, these words almost brought tears to Empress Dowager Zhou's eyes. She touched Gu Jinnian's head, feeling warmth and gratitude in her heart.

"You are a good grandson, knowing how to care for Grandmother. I'm relieved to see you are well."

"Come, come, Jie, have some snacks."

"White Ying, quickly have the imperial kitchen prepare some delicacies."

Empress Dowager Zhou was very kind, immediately ordering a eunuch to prepare the food.

"Yes."

The eunuch nodded, his face full of smiles.

"Mother, Jie has just recovered. The imperial physician said he shouldn't be over-supplemented, or it could cause problems."

"White Ying, prepare some fruits, not delicacies."

Princess Ningyue spoke, informing the situation.

"Fine, fine, follow the imperial physician's advice."

"Jie, come, let Grandmother take a good look at you."

Empress Dowager Zhou nodded casually, not caring about the details, her heart entirely on Gu Jinnian.

In the deep palace, even as Empress Dowager, she often felt lonely. Though many concubines came to pay respects, they were mostly there to vie for attention.

She was naturally tired of it, but Gu Jinnian was different. Her grandson's visit always brought joy.

However, at this moment.

A maid's voice suddenly rang out.

"Empress Dowager."

"Empress and the Grand Prince have arrived."

Upon hearing this, the smile on Empress Dowager Zhou's face noticeably faded.