Crazy!

This is too crazy, right?

No one expected that Ying Wuji not only didn't back down, but also cursed everyone present.

What?

Bai Xiaosheng said you're the first, and you really think of yourself as the first?

But look at the two conditions he mentioned, it seems that there is really nothing wrong with them.

After all, Ying Wuji really killed more than a dozen experts in the Embryonic Transformation Realm. Even though most people believe that these experts were all secretly plotted against by Ji Su, it was still delayed. For ordinary cultivators who haven't reached the Embryonic Transformation Realm, who can last half an hour under the hands of so many experts?

Non-Attack Sword Technique is indeed one of the reasons, but Non-Attack Sword Technique is not the kind of sword technique that can be learned casually!

As for those who heard another rumor, they have a different understanding of Ying Wuji's strength.

They have reached a consensus that in order to surpass Ying Wuji, they must at least reach the Triple Eleventh Layer and be extremely skilled in battle. Perhaps only if one of their essence, energy, or spirit breaks through to the Twelfth Layer, they might be able to suppress him.

But there are quite a few geniuses who have come this time, and those who dare to challenge at the entrance of the bookstore at least have the cultivation of the Triple Eleventh Layer.

But where can they find more than a dozen Embryonic Transformation Realm sparring partners?

Should they all go to the Wei family and ask them to provide more than a dozen Embryonic Transformation Realm servants and guards to be killed?

This request is somewhat annoying.

Since martial arts fights are not allowed, they can only rely on literary fights. It's not unreasonable for them to require a topic to be given in order to have a discussion.

But it's still crazy!

They can't even come up with a single topic with so many people?

So everyone rushed to the paper posted next to the gate, and after reading it, many people started counting on their fingers. But no matter how they counted, they couldn't figure it out. Their faces were twisted, as if their whole bodies were itching and uncomfortable.

After a full quarter of an hour, not a single person entered the bookstore.

The shopkeeper smiled and said, "Please leave, my young master doesn't play with fools!"

The crowd immediately became noisy, and many people cursed Ying Wuji.

But after being challenged by this topic, they were all somewhat uncertain.

Some of them left grumbling, while others stayed in front of the topic, their faces full of confusion as they continued to think.

Tian Wenjing sneered, "Wei Meng! It seems that your move is not that difficult to handle!"

"Hmph!"

Wei Meng snorted and didn't say anything.

Mi Xingli was quite curious, "What topic did Ying Wuji come up with that made them so confused? Is it the Four Books and Five Classics, or poetry, or arithmetic?"

"I'll have someone copy it for me!"

Wei Meng waved his hand at his subordinates, and they quickly went downstairs.

Soon, he came back with a copy of the topic.

He spread it out on the table, and several people gathered around.

"There are three guests staying at an inn, occupying three rooms. Each room costs ten taels of silver, for a total of thirty taels paid to the innkeeper."

"Oh? It's an arithmetic problem!"

Mi Xingli narrowed her eyes. Although she studied under the Legalist school, she was also interested in arithmetic.

But this arithmetic problem is neither the chicken-rabbit problem nor the Pythagorean theorem. It looks like a simple addition, so how could it confuse so many people?

She continued reading.

"The next day, the innkeeper thought that twenty-five taels for the three rooms would be enough, so he asked the waiter to return five taels."

"But the waiter was greedy and only returned one tael to each of the three guests, keeping two taels for himself."

"In this case, each person paid nine taels, which adds up to twenty-seven taels."

"Adding the two taels kept by the waiter, it should be twenty-nine taels."

"So, where did the remaining one tael go?"

"Ah, this..."

When everyone read the last part, they were all stunned.

Yeah?

Where did the remaining one tael go?

The six arts of a gentleman are ritual, music, archery, charioteering, calligraphy, and arithmetic. Most nobles have been exposed to arithmetic under the Zhou ritual system. This topic looks simple no matter how you look at it.

But for some reason, no matter how they calculated, something felt off.

Gradually, their expressions became the same as those below.

Damn it, why can't we figure out such a simple arithmetic problem?

Am I also a fool?

"Pfft!"

Mi Xingli suddenly laughed, "Xiang Ding! Your evaluation of Ying Wuji earlier was indeed correct. This person is clever, but only clever in a small way. Faced with this kind of situation, he didn't choose the royal path or the tyrant path, but chose the cunning path. It's a pity that such a person doesn't belong to a prestigious family."

Xiang Ding was stunned for a moment, "Miss, did you figure it out?"

"Figure it out?"

Mi Xingli smiled, "Why do we need to figure it out? This is not an arithmetic problem, it's just an optical illusion. Speaking of which, this person is quite interesting. He actually thought of using this little trick to resolve the Wei family's shady means. Now that this matter is over, let's go!"

After speaking, she stood up.Xiang Ding curiously asked, "Miss, since you saw through his tricks within a quarter of an hour, why don't you go and spar with him?"

Mi Xingli retorted, "We have different paths, so there's no need to spar with him. Let's go!"

"Alright!"

Although Xiang Ding was puzzled by this question, he didn't have the intention to compete with her. He simply followed her and left.

Tian Wenjing also stood up and smirked, "Actually, I saw through it a long time ago. It's really boring. I'm leaving too!"

After saying that, he also left the private room.

Wei Meng couldn't help but curse inwardly, "Saw through it a long time ago? You didn't see through anything!"

But he didn't expect that Pingling Jun had used favors and a high price to bribe Bai Xiaosheng.

As a result, it was easily resolved.

The illusion of the Liqian Alliance's covenant was also easily seen through by Mi Xingli.

He didn't gain anything from this.

But what exactly was this learning question?

Wasn't it supposed to be an optical illusion?

Why didn't I feel like it was an optical illusion?

Twenty-seven plus two is twenty-nine!

Where did the remaining one or two silver go?

Wei Meng rubbed his head and his face twisted in anger.

Ah!

My head itches.

It seems like I need to grow a brain.

...

"Is everyone gone?"

"Gone!"

The attendant was excited, "Hey! Young master, you're amazing. By the way, where did those two silvers go?"

Ying Wuji smirked, "It's hard for me to explain to someone with your intelligence. Later, go make a plaque and put it at the entrance. Write nine characters on it: My mother doesn't allow me to play with fools!"

"Alright!"

The attendant rubbed his hands and immediately went to the bookstore to make the plaque.

Ying Wuji sneered. If some famous experts came today, with their years of experience, they might quickly realize that the logic was flawed.

But as long as they assumed it was a learning question from the beginning, it would take a long time for them to figure it out.

These little tricks were no problem for the ancient people who were easily fooled.

"Brother Ying, this plan is brilliant! With just a small trick, we forced all these people to retreat!"

Zhao Ning couldn't help but laugh, "Even if someone really figures it out later, they won't come to us for trouble. After all, no one knows how long they have been plotting behind the scenes. But speaking of which, where were you last night? I came to find you for a drink, but waited for an hour and you didn't come back."

Ying Wuji: "..."

I can't say that I went to serenade my sweetheart, right?

The marriage proposal hasn't been finalized yet, so it's awkward to say that.

This Zhao Ling!

If you want to pursue me, just come forward boldly. Why do you have to dress as a man and treat me like a buddy? When will the sparks fly?

Tang Tang, on the other hand, has a feminine charm. When I played the pipa for her yesterday, it felt like we were in college and in love.

He made up on the spot, "Actually, let me tell you the truth! I have a teacher who secretly taught me. That's why I've been learning spells so quickly during this period. Last night when you came, I was actually studying with her!"

This statement could be considered half true, as he had indeed been learning spells quickly because of Tang Tang.

And now, it should be a good time to lay the groundwork.

After all, in the future, if he wanted to harvest attribute points, he would need to copy some things that didn't match his experience. He should find a way to explain it.

"Oh?"

Zhao Ning became interested, "May I ask which school your esteemed teacher belongs to?"

Ying Wuji rubbed his chin, "I don't know either! My teacher is very mysterious. She has knowledge in Confucianism, Mohism, Taoism, and Legalism, and her knowledge is not low. If it weren't for the few sages in the world, I would even think that she has already achieved sagehood in all four schools!"

"This..."

Zhao Ning's mouth twitched, "Brother Ying, you really know how to joke!"

The philosophies of Confucianism, Mohism, Taoism, and Legalism conflict with each other. It's acceptable to say that she uses Mohism and Taoism, or Legalism and Confucianism.

But to say that all four schools have achieved sagehood is too exaggerated.

Indeed, Brother Ying's words cannot be trusted.

Ying Wuji timely changed the topic, "By the way! Weren't you living in the palace? Why did you suddenly move next to the bookstore?"

"Brother Ying, you're joking. I'm just a member of the royal family, fortunate enough to be appreciated by the Crown Prince. I'm not a member of the royal family, so how could I live in the palace?"

Zhao Ning had already prepared his excuse and spoke smoothly, "Moreover, isn't there going to be a grand gathering of the Hundred Schools in the recent days? Brother Ying, with your profound knowledge and eloquence, if I can take advantage of your influence, maybe I can also win some luck from the Hundred Schools!"

Nonsense!

You clearly just want to pursue me.

Why don't you admit it?

As a young girl, instead of living in the Qingjiang Palace, you moved next to a man.

You have the guts, but your approach is wrong. You should dress as a woman!

You keep calling me Brother Ying all the time. When will I be moved by you?

Even if you call me dad.

It would be more effective than calling me Brother Ying!

Ying Wuji had a headache, but for a moment, he didn't know how to hint at her.

Forget it!Let's talk about serious matters!

After all, this princess is too serious.

He asked, "What did His Majesty and Luo Xiang say after we left yesterday?"

"Naturally, they discussed the details of the reform!"

Zhao Ning smiled, "His Majesty and Xiang Bang have been governing the country together for many years, so I immediately understood the intentions of Brother Ying and the Crown Prince. But the reform will offend many people, so the Crown Prince is temporarily avoiding the limelight, and if Brother Ying has any thoughts on the reform, I can convey them on his behalf!"

"No! I dare not."

Ying Wuji shrugged, "Until now, I still think that reform is not a wise choice. The situation in our Great Li is too special. Once the reform touches the fundamental interests of the aristocratic families, internal conflicts are likely to arise. Even if the reform is only implemented in the Zhao family's territory, it will still cause dissatisfaction among the royal family. Both internally and externally, it will become a burden.

Even if it is implemented, if the reform is not thorough, it is equivalent to not reforming at all.

It's difficult..."

"Ah!"

Zhao Ning sighed lightly. She didn't refute because before she came to find Ying Wuji last night, she had eavesdropped on Zhao Ji and Luo Yan discussing the reform. The problem Ying Wuji mentioned just now was exactly what they were struggling with.

Reform that is not thorough is equivalent to not reforming at all.

This sentence is really good.

In the world of legalists, talented individuals have long realized that only through reform can one become stronger.

In the past, Li Guo had Li Kui and Wu Qi, two talented reformers. Unfortunately, they were strategists of the Wei family. The Wei family wanted to reform in their own fiefdom, so they restricted them to Wei territory. However, the prerequisite for Li Kui's reform was to abolish the hereditary nobility. If the person he assisted was a king, there might still be a chance for success, but in Wei territory, it was simply seeking death.

So Li Kui died, and Wu Qi's military reforms were quite successful. He trained the Wei Wu soldiers for the Wei family, but in the end, he witnessed his friend being killed and directly fled to the Kingdom of Chu. The reforms he carried out in Chu were also remarkable. With the protection of the Chu King, the nobles below did not dare to cause trouble. However, halfway through the reform, the Chu King died, and Wu Qi was shot dead in front of the Chu King's coffin.

Both waves of reforms ended without any achievements. Although the strength of both sides increased, it was still limited.

The aristocrats still held power and obstructed the progress of the reforms, but they were overtaken by the Kingdom of Qian.

Since then, all the other countries could only watch as the Kingdom of Qian enjoyed the benefits of the reforms and became stronger and stronger, making others envious.

Zhao Ji had also said that if he were the King of Li at that time, even if he had to go to war with the Wei family, he would have snatched Li Kui and Wu Qi over.

Zhao Ning sighed lightly, "Brother Ying! Do you have a solution?"

"It's difficult!"

Ying Wuji shook his head, "Actually, there are solutions, but the requirements are too demanding. If I have the energy, I'd rather face the contradictions head-on or directly fight against the Wei and Han families to determine life and death. I came to your Li Kingdom to enjoy, not to die!"

"You!"

Zhao Ning was a little angry, but when she thought about Ying Wuji's reforms in the Li Kingdom, the danger was greater than the struggle for the throne in the Kingdom of Qian.

He had already brought such a big business, and asking for more seemed a bit unreasonable.

Ying Wuji smiled, "Don't be angry! We are family in the future. I do want to help you, but my ideas are indeed not mature enough. And when His Majesty and Luo Xiang discussed it, they didn't include me. Even if I really want to say something, His Majesty may not be willing to listen, right?"

"You're right!"

Zhao Ning felt a little discouraged because at the moment, Zhao Ji only saw Ying Wuji as a capable minister who could make money, and he didn't really value his political insight. After all, Ying Wuji had never been involved in politics.

Sometimes she thought that she might as well take charge of the reform herself.

She shook her head and temporarily put this matter aside.

"By the way! Brother Ying, let me introduce someone to you!"

"Who?"

"Zhao Xin! Come out!"

As soon as she finished speaking, a young man in his thirties jumped over the wall.

Wow!

Such strong energy.

Zhao Xin had distinct facial features, sharp eyes, and calluses on his hands from holding a long spear. He looked like a master, but his complexion was a bit pale, giving the feeling of just recovering from a serious injury.

Ying Wuji curiously asked, "Who is this..."

Zhao Ning smiled slightly, "He is also a young master of the Zhao family, a fourth-grade Ling Tai in the Embryonic Transformation Realm. There are many dangers during the Hundred Schools Gathering, so he will protect you personally!"

"Wow! A master!"

Ying Wuji was pleasantly surprised. A fourth-grade Ling Tai in the Embryonic Transformation Realm was truly a master.

After all, the strength of the Embryonic Transformation Realm largely depends on the Ling Tai. With each rise in grade, the strength will increase by one level.

Ying Wuji felt that even if he used all his trump cards, he would not be able to defeat Zhao Xin. At most, he could find an opportunity to escape invisibly.Zhao Ning smiled and said, "Actually, Brother Ying has known him for a long time!"

Theft is never good, try looking at bit.ly/3iBfjkV.

"Oh?"

Ying Wuji looked at Zhao Xin.

Zhao Xin felt a little embarrassed under his gaze and said, "Lord Husband! Back then during the incident at the high-class brothel, you were in great danger, and I have been secretly protecting you ever since."

Ying Wuji choked for a moment and said, "But I have encountered so many dangers, and I haven't seen you take action!"

Zhao Xin rubbed his head and said, "During the incident with Li Caitan, I didn't expect that she was one of my disciples. I thought she just wanted to sleep with you..."

Ying Wuji's head started to ache. "What about the incident at the Deer House?"

"I wanted to stop you at the Deer House, but His Highness gave me the order to save you when your life was in danger. There was no reason for me to stop you from saving others. I originally planned to save you if a fight broke out, but as soon as you entered, the mysterious iron gate closed."

The intensity of the Deer House was already high, and it was engraved with a formation. In order to enter quickly, I deliberately used my energy to break the gate with Thirteenth Prince. As a result, the formation rebounded and I was seriously injured. I just woke up a few hours ago."

Ying Wuji gave him a thumbs up and said, "So you didn't take action at all and ended up getting yourself injured. You're really talented!"

Zhao Xin regretfully rubbed his head and said, "His Highness said that I'm not suitable for covert protection, so he let me come out openly. Lord Husband, rest assured, I am still strong in direct combat..."

He tightened his grip on the long spear and added, "And also strong in sneak attacks!"

Ying Wuji: "..."

Forget it!

Considering that the Hundred Family Gathering is about to take place, he forgave him.

Counting the days, the powerful experts of the Confucian, Mohist, Legalist, and Military families in the Wushen Realm will arrive in a few days.

He wondered if he could gain some insights from them.

He had only been waiting for a little over a month, but so many things happened in between, making it feel like a year had passed.

The Hundred Family Gathering was finally coming.

After confirming that Ying Wuji did not despise Zhao Xin, Zhao Ning bid farewell and left, getting on a carriage and heading towards the palace.

One reason was to return the draft.

The other reason was the reform. Although Zhao Ji didn't take her words to heart, she now firmly believed that Ying Wuji had a political vision that transcended this era. Even if he lacked experience in handling government affairs, he would definitely provide valuable insights.

Even if his ideas were not feasible, they might still inspire the Prime Minister and the King.

Just like how he amazed her with the words "imperial examination" that day.

She.

She believed in Ying Wuji like that.

...

The Wei Family.

Since Wei Teng was killed, the Wei Family had been shrouded in a strange atmosphere.

It seemed like no one wanted to speak.

And after the rumors about the Fiery Palm Technique spread yesterday, the atmosphere in the Wei Family became even more oppressive.

It turned out that Ying Wuji was not forced into a desperate situation at all. Killing Wei Teng was not because he was in a crisis and lost control of his anger, but because he could have resolved the situation properly, yet he still forcefully killed Wei Teng.

Not only did he kill someone, but he even said it publicly afterwards.

When the news came back yesterday, everyone in the Wei Family was filled with righteous indignation. They went to Wei Huan one after another, asking him to demand an explanation in court.

However, Wei Huan's attitude was very cold. "Demand an explanation? What explanation do you want? Do you have any evidence? Do you believe everything others say? Even if there is evidence, what can you do to Ying Wuji? Kill this Prince of Kingdom Qian? King Li has just returned from seclusion and has taken control of the examination of all the officials in the country. If you continue to make a fuss, do you want to give away even more power? Get out of here! Are you not embarrassed enough?"

As a result, they could only simmer in their anger.

Wei Huan also issued a gag order to all members of the Wei Family in Jiangcheng. The matter of Ying Wuji forcefully killing Wei Teng was strictly forbidden to be spread to the Wei Family's fiefdom. Otherwise, if it spread to the Wei Wu Army, they would not be able to provide a satisfactory answer, which would greatly affect morale.

After all, that was the foundation of the Wei Family!

"Are we just going to let Ying Wuji go like this? Did my Teng'er die in vain?"

Wei Huan's wife, Tian Jia, looked haggard. Her eyes had been swollen and red for the past two days, and the swelling hadn't subsided at all.

She had many sons, but they were all busy with their own careers.

Only Wei Teng, her youngest son, was raised under her doting care. His death was like the sky collapsing for her.

"Rest assured, Madam! I will make Ying Wuji pay for his blood debt!"

Wei Huan promised in a deep voice, then looked at the maid beside him and said, "Quickly help Madam down and let the doctor make a bowl of calming soup for her!"

"Yes!"

The maid quickly responded and helped the tearful Tian Jia down.

Wei Huan's gaze darkened. If King Li hadn't returned from seclusion, and if Ying Wuji dared to expose himself like this, he would have taken action long ago, even if it meant offending Kingdom Qian. After all, Kingdom Qian had just experienced a major war, and they could still fight even with a stiff neck.

On this side of Jiangcheng, they could temporarily put aside their grievances with the Han Family and join forces to challenge Ying Wuji, forcing the Crown Prince to make a statement.Once the Crown Prince makes a statement, he can stabilize the rear.

Fighting against Kingdom Qian will definitely consume a lot of military and material resources, but as long as we win a few battles, the reputation gained domestically can completely make up for the losses.

Unfortunately, the Great Li has come out!

And his cultivation has improved, a king at the Wushen realm, his influence is not something that can be easily shaken.

The reason why the Wei and Han families have been suppressed for so long is because the previous Great Li kings were ruthless in their cultivation.

But think about it, if the Great Li didn't come out, Wuji wouldn't have self-destructed either.

"This bastard!"

Wei Huan cursed angrily. Wei Teng was his most beloved son, so he felt the pain as well.

He turned his head and looked at Wei Meng, "Was Pingling Jun's plan easily broken?"

Wei Meng helplessly lowered his head, "Wuji is indeed arrogant, but the conditions he proposed are irrefutable. Only Mi Xingli seemed to have deciphered the mathematical problem, but she left without saying anything!"

"A bunch of useless people! Can't even solve a simple mathematical problem?"

Wei Huan cursed angrily, "Give me the question. I want to see how incompetent these so-called young talents are!"

"Yes!"

Wei Meng quickly took out a piece of paper from his pocket and respectfully placed it in front of Wei Huan after opening it.

When Wei Huan saw the first sentence, his expression was somewhat disdainful, but soon it became strange.

Then, it became somewhat tangled and ferocious.

Wei Meng's heart skipped a beat. This expression... looks familiar.

Less than half a moment.

Wei Huan put down the paper and sneered, "Indeed, it's just a deception, a trivial trick!"

Wei Meng was curious and quickly asked, "Father! What is this question about? Can you explain it to me?"

Wei Huan's face stiffened for a moment, then he scolded, "For this kind of question, those who understand will naturally understand. It's useless to explain to those who don't understand. With your brain, it's difficult for me to make you understand. If you really want to know, study mathematics yourself. Even if you ask me and I explain it to you, it won't become your skill!"

Wei Meng scratched his head, "I'm not thinking about gaining skills, I just want to understand, otherwise it's bothering me!"

"If I say I won't explain, then I won't explain!"

Wei Huan became anxious and slapped the table, "Still bothered or not?"

"Not bothered!"

Wei Meng quickly shut his mouth and remained silent.

Only then did Wei Huan's expression ease slightly, "What do Qi and Chu say about this?"

Wei Meng was somewhat resentful, "They all believe that our Great Li's reform will not succeed, and the Li-Qian alliance is just a scam, so they haven't shown any response. Especially Tian Wenjing, his arrogance has reached the sky. Sending someone like him, Tian Weihou is really not afraid of trouble?"

"Although Tian Wenjing lacks manners, his knowledge in Legalism is solid. After studying under Gong Sunyang, he must have learned real talent and knowledge. Otherwise, with Tian Weihou's vision, he wouldn't have valued him."

Wei Huan shook his head, "The Qi Kingdom is always thinking about reform, but they are suppressed by the Zhou royal family's Zhou Li. They don't dare to usurp the Jiang surname's throne. If they can't abolish the hereditary system, the reform of the world's officials and nobles will never succeed. Tian Weihou has great ambitions. Giving Tian Wenjing such a high position, I'm afraid he will take action in a few years!"

"This... Father!"

Wei Meng didn't understand, "Is reform really that good? Abolishing the hereditary system is like self-destruction!"

Wei Huan snorted, "Whether reform is good or not, just look at the Wei family and Kingdom Qian. How many mediocre people hold official positions in our Wei family? How many outstanding officials from other families are there in Kingdom Qian?

And the people of Kingdom Qian are working like madmen, farming and fighting. What about us?

If it weren't for Kingdom Qian being restricted in terms of iron tools and cultivation resources, the Great Li would probably not be able to suppress them for long!"

"What should we do then?"

Wei Meng became anxious, "Both Qi and Chu are unwilling to put pressure on us. Are we just going to sit back and watch the reform progress?"

Wei Huan sneered, "It doesn't matter! This reform will not succeed! When our Wei family reformed the land, Li Kuai wanted to seize the power and land of those people. Look at how miserably he died in the end. If Zhao Ji only reforms the land of Zhao, it can still be tolerated. But if he wants to touch the hereditary system, all the nobles of the Great Li will stand against him. But if he only reforms the land of Zhao, what's the difference from not reforming at all?"

Wei Meng asked, "What about us now..."

Wei Huan smiled faintly, "Let's wait and see! I really hope that Zhao Ji will stand against all the nobles. Otherwise, I, an old bone, might not have the chance to wait."

"What about Luo Yan..."

"If Luo Yan seeks death, I won't stop him. I'm more concerned about Luo Ming. As long as he knows what's good for him, after Luo Yan's death, the Luo family will still be in our hands."

"Father is wise!"

...

Han Family.

Han Zhe walked around the courtyard with his hands behind his back, humming a tune, seemingly in a good mood.

Sometimes he picked flowers, sometimes he kicked melons.It seems like this is not our own courtyard, but the court where I will ascend to the throne in the future.

Reluctant to leave!

Han Juan sat cross-legged on the cushion, reluctantly opened his eyes: "Father, you have been wandering around for the whole afternoon. What happy thing happened that you must disturb me in comprehending the Heavenly Dao?"

"My good son, what's the use of comprehending the Heavenly Dao? How can it compare to the joy of family and the picturesque scenery of the kingdom?"

Han Zhe became a little anxious: "You have been home for so many days. Besides going out on your own and meditating at home, can you accompany me, your father?"

Han Juan rubbed his dark eye circles and wanted to say something.

Han Zhe quickly added: "Your master wants you to experience the mortal world, but you haven't immersed yourself in it. How can you cultivate your heart if you don't face the mortal world?"

"Alright!"

Han Juan thought about it: "Then tell me, what happy thing happened today?"

Han Zhe laughed heartily: "This is a long story. It all started with Ying Wuji's recent events..."

He then recounted the recent events.

At first, Han Juan tried to blend in, but the more he listened, the more tasteless it became. He endured and asked, "So, what's so happy about this?"

Han Zhe smiled and said, "Isn't this worth being happy about? Before Ying Wuji appeared, the Wei family held deep hatred towards us. But now, we can prove that we only wanted to use Wei Teng to kill Ying Wuji, not to let Wei Teng die. Although there is still resentment, at least we are not the main culprits. Otherwise, we would be hated by both the Wei family and the royal family... Don't you like to hear this?"

"It's not interesting."

Han Juan yawned: "What about Han Xie? Did he really die like that?"

Han Zhe's expression became unnatural. He could say "he died, so what?" to others, but he couldn't say it to his beloved son.

Having grown up in the mountains, this son was completely different from the children of noble families.

Seeing that he didn't speak, Han Juan thought for a moment and said, "I understand. This is the mortal world. It seems like what my master said is true. Without facing the cruelty of the world and the ugliness within oneself, one cannot cultivate a refined heart. Father, I have learned from you!"

He respectfully bowed to Han Zhe and then leaped onto the wall.

In the evening breeze, his slightly bulky Daoist robe fluttered in the wind.

He lazily tied his belt and jumped to the other side of the wall.

"Where are you going?"

"I heard that there is an interesting mathematical problem over there. I'm going to take a look!"

Listening to the voice from the other side of the wall, Han Zhe's expression became complicated. He stood still in the courtyard for a long time before leaving quietly.

...

In the Reili Palace.

Zhao Ji sat on the throne, facing an empty court.

But his expression was stern, as if there were rebels below who were eager to overthrow him from the throne.

Yesterday, he had a late-night discussion with his old friend, and the two of them united again after many years. However, it was far from smooth as they had imagined.

The reform had not yet begun.

The two of them only discussed the details of the reform, but they were already suffocated by the immense pressure.

Compared to the pressure from the powerful clans during Shang Yang's reform, it was nothing compared to the internal pressure in the Kingdom of Li.

But even so, after Shang Yang succeeded in his reform, he was accused of treason by the new ruler and his body was dismembered. It was only then that the people's hearts were calmed.

But in the Kingdom of Li...

There was probably no country in the world more divided than the Kingdom of Li.

If they, the ruler and the minister, carried out the reform, it was likely that even one death would not be enough.

But as long as the reform succeeded, what did it matter if both the ruler and the minister died?

The problem was, it was too difficult!

"Father King!"

In the palace, Zhao Ning's voice sounded.

Zhao Ji finally snapped out of his thoughts. He had been lost in thought just now and didn't even notice Zhao Ning coming in.

He looked at his daughter, who was still dressed as a man. She had a more heroic and handsome appearance than any young talent. He couldn't help but feel relieved and beckoned to Zhao Ning: "Come here!"

"Yes!"

Zhao Ning walked over as instructed.

Zhao Ji smiled and said, "Come closer!"

"Okay!"

Zhao Ning responded, but she didn't know what Zhao Ji wanted to do.

She took another step forward and suddenly felt a pull. Then, her shoulders sank as Zhao Ji pressed her onto the throne.

"Father King, this..."

Even when she acted as the regent for these years, she sat in the auxiliary seat next to the throne during court sessions.

Being suddenly pressed onto the throne, especially by Zhao Ji himself, it was fake to say that she wasn't anxious.

"I want you to sit, so sit!"

With his hands behind his back, Zhao Ji walked back and forth behind the throne. "If you were in charge of this reform, how would you handle it?"

This is a test for me.

When Zhao Ning came in, she saw his deeply resentful appearance and knew that the discussion between the ruler and the minister last night did not yield good results.

She took a deep breath and gave the answer she had already thought of: "Before the reform, we must abolish hereditary titles and privileges, so that both the nobles and the commoners have to strive and progress. It should be like the Kingdom of Qian, where land ownership is private and military achievements lead to promotion."The situation in the Great Li Kingdom is difficult to resolve.

If the hereditary officials and their privileges are abolished openly, it will definitely provoke the opposition of the noble families in the entire country. The royal family can still suppress it, but it cannot be taken lightly with other noble families. I think we should proceed slowly and make Zhao Tu the priority of the Great Li Kingdom.

Abolish the system of communal fields, lift the ban on iron tools, and allow iron tools to be used in agricultural fields. Use privately owned land to attract refugees from other areas.

At the same time, create official positions, promise to establish a hundred schools, and build the Great Li Academy to cultivate talents from Zhao Tu.

After many years, Zhao Tu will become stronger, and then gradually encroach on the official positions and land of some small and medium-sized noble families.

"Correct!"

Zhao Ji nodded, because what Zhao Ning said was exactly the same as the discussion between the monarch and his ministers last night.

But he asked again, "Do you think this strategy will work?"

"It will work, but it will be difficult!"

Zhao Ning's face looked bitter. "Although the reform of Zhao Tu can make it stronger, turning communal fields into private ones will definitely reduce the harvest of the royal family in the first few years. And after attracting refugees, there won't be enough land available. Even if we reclaim land, we will still face some difficulties, as there will be more expenses than income in the first few years.

If the jade soap business can succeed, we won't have to worry about income.

But during this long period of time, the Wei and Han families will definitely not sit idly by.

If we can hold on, the Wei and Han families will not give us a chance to encroach on their territories. As soon as they see any signs, they will immediately unite with other noble families.

And it will be difficult to control the official positions promised to the Great Li Academy.

The scholars from various families have high ambitions. It is impossible to let them teach at the academy without promising them a bright future.

If the official positions given are too few, the Great Li Academy will not be established.

If the official positions given are too many, the control of the royal family over Zhao Tu will decrease, giving other families a chance to erode our power.

Moreover... what is the limit that the royal family will allow? How high can it be?"

She frowned in worry.

Is this what Brother Ying meant by "easy to say, difficult to do"?

It is indeed very accurate.

"To be able to think of all these, you are already qualified to be a competent king!"

Zhao Ji sighed.

"But you are still far from being a great ruler."

Zhao Ning couldn't help but ask, "Father, how do you plan to solve these problems?"

A stern look flashed across Zhao Ji's face. "Crush them! Give them official positions! The royal family can handle it! After the reform, immediately implement strict laws to prevent infiltration from other families. I can still live for a few more years, enough to support the first batch of reclaimed land for food production. By then, I will hand over the kingdom to you. There is no need to rush to encroach on other territories. We will grow stronger for several years and then crush them with thunderous force!"

Zhao Ning: "..."

Indeed, he is the king.

What he said is exactly what she guessed.

It is domineering enough.

Zhao Ji asked, "Why do you have that expression? Do you think it won't work?"

Zhao Ning smiled bitterly and shook his head. "It's not that. It's better than waiting for death. But the biggest problem is that after the change of the throne, some people may not give me enough time to grow stronger. Even if I do, it will be difficult to crush them with thunderous force.

All of this can perhaps be solved with ruthless methods. But what about the internal conflicts within the royal family? When they see members of other families still enjoying prosperity, and they have to compete with officials of commoner backgrounds for power, will they consider restoring the old system?

Can we maintain control for a lifetime by suppressing them temporarily? If the reform is not thorough, then it is as good as not reforming at all!"

"We still have to give it a try!"

"Yes..."

The father and daughter fell into silence because they knew that the success rate of this strategy was less than twenty percent.

After a while, Zhao Ning spoke, "Father, Ying Wuji said he has a solution."

Zhao Ji furrowed his brows. "He has never been involved in politics!"

"Father, do you believe that there are geniuses in this world?"

"He is from the Kingdom Qian!"

"But he made a blood oath!"

"..."

Zhao Ji's expression became more serious. To be honest, he valued Ying Wuji quite a lot. Just with the business of jade soap, he treated Ying Wuji like his own child.

But when it comes to politics, he had to think twice.

Although Zhao Ning praised Ying Wuji highly, she also felt that he couldn't be fully trusted.

Moreover, he is from the Kingdom Qian. Who knows which side he will stand on?

Zhao Ning took a deep breath. "Father! The decision-making power is in your hands. Whether to listen to him or not, it depends on your judgment, right? Even if he says ten things, even if only one of them is useful, it can still increase our chances of success!

The Hundred Schools Gathering will take place in five days, and the scholars will arrive in three days. Time waits for no one!"

Zhao Ji's expression became serious, and he finally made up his mind. "Fine! Go and bring that kid to me!"

"Yes!"

Zhao Ning finally showed a smile.

But before going, she had to go home and return Brother Ying's manuscript.

...

Qingjiang Palace.

Small courtyard.

By the window.

Ying Wuji felt a bit annoyed. "Can we change the tune? I have been playing the Market and Joyful Melody all night. Aren't you tired of listening?"

"I want to listen!"

"..."

"Just play these two songs, okay?"

"Fine..."Ying Wuji shook his head and chuckled. This was no different from a little girl, far from the demeanor of a peerless genius.

Well, it wouldn't hurt to reveal some attributes first, and look for an opportunity to unleash skills later.

The sound of a turning axle and plucking strings echoed.

Li Caimei rested her cheek on her hand, the corners of her mouth slightly upturned.

Although she didn't know if he was pretending, she felt a bit warm.

Quite nice...

But just at this moment.

A familiar energy suddenly approached.

Li Caimei's face changed drastically: "You need to leave, someone's coming!"

"Who?"

"Zhao Ning!"

"..."

Even though Ying Wuji felt that being discovered wouldn't be a big deal, he still felt a bit guilty for sneaking around.

But the footsteps were getting closer and closer, and it was too late to escape back to the courtyard.

Li Caimei also realized this and quickly thought of a plan: "Quick, hide in the cabinet!"

"Right! The cabinet!"

Ying Wuji moved swiftly. By the time the cabinet door closed, the invisibility of the Earthly Fiend Seventy-Two Arts had already been activated.

"Creak!"

The door opened.

Zhao Ning curiously asked, "What are you doing in front of the wardrobe? Are you planning to go out?"

Li Caimei: "..."

~~~~~~

Three updates tomorrow, thirty thousand words.

(End of this chapter)