(Chapter 157 has been released, just before the announcement)

...

In the following days, there was a flurry of activity in Jiangcheng.

One after another, fast horses galloped out of the palace and arrived at Shangmo Bookstore, carrying carts of printed migration orders, quickly rushing towards various parts of Li.

These fast horses, compared to war horses, could only be considered second-rate, but they were marked with a crimson symbol on their bellies.

This symbol represented that these fast horses had taken medicine, and during the duration of the medicine's effect, their speed and internal energy would greatly increase. They could reach any place in Li within two days, but once the effect wore off, the fast horses would exhaust their energy and die.

They were treated as consumables, just like second-rate fast horses.

Only in extremely urgent situations would they be used.

When this news spread, the first ones who couldn't sit still were the Wei and Han families.

But this time, the message was an urgent 800-mile delivery from the Kingdom of Li. No accidents could happen in the middle. If anything went wrong, all the villages and strongholds along the way would be thoroughly investigated, and anyone involved would be killed without mercy. Even ant nests would be drenched in copper water.

To tamper with these migration orders was equivalent to declaring war on the Great Li Dynasty.

Even if the Wei and Han families were bold, they would not choose to provoke the Zhao family in this matter.

So for these two days, they could only wait quietly.

After all, even if it was kept secret, the migration orders had reached the local areas and were being distributed and posted by local officials.

In no more than two days, they would know the contents of the migration orders.

But during these two days.

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They were waiting.

But some people couldn't wait.

News of victories kept coming, spreading to various parts of Li in an instant, greatly inspiring the common people and even making them somewhat incredulous. Was this the Kingdom of Di that had troubled Li for many years?

How could it be so easily defeated in front of the Crown Prince?

For a while, Zhao Ning's prestige was at its peak.

Zhao Ji presided over the palace, summoning the heads of various families, except for the Wei and Han families, almost every family head would be called into the palace from time to time.

This even included the heads of the Zheng and Li families.

Originally, the Wei and Han families remained unmoved, thinking that Zhao Ji was just anxious.

After all, from the current situation, except for the frequent reports of victories from Zhao Ning on the frontlines that made them a little uneasy, everything was going well.

The common people of the Wei and Han territories were becoming more obedient.

Even if you conquered more land, if there were no people migrating there, wouldn't it be in vain?

But when the new migration orders were issued, and distributed to various parts of Li with such specifications, they couldn't help but feel a little uneasy before seeing the contents.

Until...

...

Han Mansion, the main hall for discussions.

Since Crown Prince Zhao Ning led the troops north, the main hall of Han Mansion had never been empty. As long as there were no other matters, most of the high-ranking members of the Han family would be on standby in the main hall.

After all, during this period of time, the survival of the Han family was at stake, and no one dared to take it lightly.

Due to the influence of the Kingdom of Chu, the Han family did not choose to send troops and had already lost most of their initiative. Every step from now on had to be taken seriously, because any slight carelessness could lead to irreversible consequences.

Even though the current situation in the Wei and Han territories was ideal, and the officials of the Wei and Han families were triumphant in the court, it didn't mean that they were truly satisfied.

They had to exert their utmost efforts behind the scenes.

To make it look effortless in front of others.

The ease with which the Wei and Han families handled things was the result of numerous family meetings.

"Thud!"

"Thud!"

"Thud!"

Outside the main hall, a series of hurried footsteps could be heard. Judging from the sound of the bursting true energy accompanying the footsteps, it was clear that this person was at least a high-level martial artist.

Such a high-level martial artist would definitely be considered a high-ranking member even in the Han family.

There was news.

And it was big news.

Sure enough.

Han You walked in with large strides, holding a shimmering transmission talisman in his hand.

He walked forward and bowed to Han Zhe and an elder, his voice filled with nervousness, "Elder brother! Esteemed elders, news has come from the sealed territory!"

Everyone's hearts tightened.

At this critical moment, what news could come from the sealed territory?

It must be the migration orders!

The Han family couldn't ignore the new version of the migration orders suddenly issued by Zhao Ji, especially when it came to the battle for people. They had to be cautious in dealing with any of Zhao Ji's moves.

If Zhao Ji was so anxious, it was probably a ruthless move.

Han Zhe said in a deep voice, "Quick!"

"Yes!"

Han You no longer delayed and quickly activated the transmission talisman.

Soon, an old man with white hair appeared out of thin air.

He was the elder of the Han clan, responsible for most of the affairs in the sealed territory.

After nodding to everyone in greeting, the elder quickly recounted the situation, and it was indeed about the new version of the migration orders.

When they heard that Zhao Ji was going to use cultivation resources to cultivate new talents in the new territories, the entire main hall fell into silence.

Everyone looked at each other.

They could see the disbelief in each other's eyes.

After a brief silence, the main hall erupted with waves of confusion.

"Has His Majesty gone mad? Giving cultivation resources to commoners?"

"Although among the three families, the Zhao family has the most abundant cultivation resources, opening them up to commoners..."

"This is cutting into the flesh of the Zhao family! The elders of the royal family will never agree!"

"Zhao Ji has truly lost his mind!"

"But with the frequent reports of victories from Zhao Ning on the frontlines, the royal family's prestige is extremely high this time. It might be able to suppress the opposition!"

"Even if they can suppress it, so what? The dissatisfaction of the royal family can only be suppressed, it won't disappear. His Majesty is completely playing with fire and self-immolation!"

"That's right! When the frontlines stabilize, there might still be room for maneuvering. But once a problem arises, the royal family will definitely face a backlash!"

The opinions of the crowd were surprisingly unanimous.Because no matter when, cultivation resources are necessary for cultivating true experts.

Ordinary people who want to become experts must rely on large families. They often need to put in several times the effort to obtain the same cultivation resources as those born into large families.

The binding of interests within large families is often the strongest internal cohesion of the family.

In the past, there were people who broke the rules.

The most representative example is the military merit system of Kingdom Qian. In fact, there have been incomplete reforms in various countries, and the successful parts of the reforms often occur within the military, and most of these armies also have similar rules for distributing cultivation resources.

But these situations all have an important premise.

That is, meritorious service!

Only by meritorious service and gaining more benefits for the family and the country can one obtain cultivation resources.

This rule has made countless commoners strive to achieve meritorious service.

It can also help the young talents of large families maintain a balanced mindset.

But this time, Zhao Ji broke this premise. As long as he performs well in cultivation, the royal family will directly allocate resources to focus on his cultivation.

This is definitely a strong medicine for the new immigration order.

But Zhao Ji completely put the royal family in a difficult position.

When this news comes out, the conflict between the royal family and the noble family will definitely deepen.

In the long run.

This is definitely good news for the Han family.

Even though the pressure from the new immigration order may increase in the short term, most of the people in the hall are only half happy and half worried.

But Han Zhe's face is very gloomy.

The discussions of the crowd did not make him feel the joy of "Zhao Ji finally made a mistake", but the panic of "the Han family is self-numbing".

"Silence!"

He shouted loudly, and the conference hall immediately quieted down.

Although there are many elders with more qualifications than Han Zhe present, in most large families, the most influential person is often the head of the family who is in his prime.

Because only those who have rich experience but have not yet decayed mentally can make the most accurate judgments.

The Han family is no exception.

Han Zhe glanced at everyone: "Do you really think that Zhao Ji's actions will deepen the conflict between the royal family and the noble family?"

Everyone looked at each other.

Isn't it?

Han Zhe shook his head: "If it was in the past, of course it would be like this! But now the new land of the Great Li is already a done deal, and a large area of land has not been developed.

Ten years or a hundred years later, there will be cities rising from the ground here.

Cities mean taxes!

With such great benefits, can it not outweigh the meager cultivation resources?

What does the Zhao noble family want?

They want money, money to build cities on the newly developed land!

I heard that the first batch of orders for jade soap has been delivered. Do you think the royal family lacks money?

Even if they do!

With Zhao Ji's courage, he may not be unwilling to sacrifice!

If he comes up with enough money.

Do you think the noble family will be unwilling to give up these cultivation resources?"

This statement directly silenced the Han family members in the hall.

They have long been deeply aware of how profitable the jade soap business is. Even if Zhao Ji is a bit stretched now, as long as he promises long-term benefits to the noble family, it is difficult for internal conflicts to arise within the noble family.

After all, the tax revenue from the new cities is much more attractive than the meager cultivation resources.

Anyone knows that when the new land of the Great Li is built, only the Zhao noble family can benefit from it by following the royal family.

Even if it's just drinking soup.

There will be a large number of small families rushing to grab a share.

The so-called deepening conflict between the royal family and the noble family now seems to be a self-consoling false proposition.

After Han Zhe's speech, a sense of panic quietly spread in the conference hall.

Since the royal family is not suffering serious backlash.

Then how should they deal with this new immigration order?

Han You also looked serious: "Big brother, what do you think?"

Han Zhe said lightly: "There is no need to panic, everyone! If the royal family can easily come up with such a large sum of money, it would not have been delayed until now. They need money for the war on the front lines, for building temporary shelters for refugees, and for the immediate construction of the Great Li Academy...

And! Don't forget! The jade soap business is jointly operated by the Qian and Li families, and it is located on the border of Kingdom Qian. With the dedication of the Qian Kingdom in this military exercise, they will definitely receive no less than fifty percent of the shares.

Not to mention the cost of jade soap, even if this business is profitable, how much will end up in the hands of the royal family?

This new immigration order is indeed tricky.

But as long as we can delay it and make the new land uninhabitable, the Zhao noble family will have to develop the land on their own.

By then.

The promised cultivation resources in the new immigration order will be nothing but empty words!"

Everyone looked at each other and nodded subconsciously.

Indeed.

This expenditure is too large.

Even if the royal family holds the jade soap business, they will inevitably be stretched.

Delay!

One word is enough to deal with all of Zhao Ji's methods.

But...

Han You couldn't help but ask, "How long do we need to delay?"

Everyone echoed.

Because delaying also incurs costs.

Now the elite troops of the Zhao family are on the northern front, and they are not facing much pressure. But when the Zhao family's army returns victorious, they will face great pressure.

Han Zhe pondered for a moment: "Half a year is enough! Kingdom Di has only been weakened, not destroyed. As long as they recover their strength, they will definitely think about reclaiming their lost territory. If the new land has no population to fill it, everything will be in vain. As long as we hold back and don't let anyone go, the Zhao noble family will have to move their own people to the land. They can't afford to delay!"

He turned to the elder in the transmission symbol's image: "Elder! The new immigration order must be completely blocked, not a single one should be left!"

The elder was shocked: "This is openly opposing the royal family!"Han Zhe shook his head and smiled, "No! Now Han Tu is facing threats from the Kingdom of Chu day and night. We cannot take it lightly in the face of strong enemies. The army needs people, the city defense needs people, the logistics needs people. We can't spare manpower to issue the migration order, is that too much?

Moreover, it's almost New Year's. Local officials are also human beings and want to go home and reunite with their families!

The people of Han Tu are loyal to the court, but without enough manpower, their loyalty is useless!

According to my words, rest assured and deal with it!

Before the northern war is over, no matter how much the court urges, I will stand firm.

Even if the war ends early, there should be no action before the fifteenth day of the first lunar month!"

The elder hesitated for a moment and nodded heavily, "Yes!"

It doesn't matter how much the migration order can incite people.

What's the use if not a single one is issued?

Although this move is risky, it is necessary during extraordinary times.

Before the Zhao family gathers all their strength, they will definitely not give face to the Han family.

This decision is correct!

Han Zhe continued, "Starting today, open the grain storage and sell high-quality grains at low prices. Don't keep a single one. At the same time, issue a decree that half of next year's public land harvest will go to the farming households."

Upon hearing this, everyone's hearts tightened.

Currently, the well-field system is still the mainstream in Han Tu. If half of the public land harvest is distributed, it is equivalent to cutting nearly half of the Han family's income.

But if it's only for this year, it can still be accepted.

The common people are reluctant to give up high-quality grains and the harvest from public land.

At least it can delay them for a year.

Although the Han family will also suffer losses, it won't be to the extent of being severely affected.

On the contrary, the Zhao family cannot afford to delay.

They have no objections to Han Zhe's request.

Han Zhe took a deep breath and continued, "In addition, allocate funds to scholars in various regions to promote the idea that the new land is the ancient land of the Kingdom Di, where there is a lot of barbaric energy and evil spirits, and the five grains do not grow.

If they migrate there, the babies born will also be easily affected by evil spirits, full of barbaric habits, and killing their parents is a common occurrence.

The reason why the royal family issued the migration order is to use these people to completely eliminate the barbaric energy and evil spirits, so that they can be completely integrated into the Central Plains after decades.

The crime is in the present, and the merit is in the future!

Our King Li is a great ruler!"

"Yes!"

The elder nodded as he listened.

Those common people don't even know how to read, but they love to believe in these rumors they hear.

With these measures, even if the common people are eager for cultivation resources and want to forcibly turn the tables, they will have to think twice, right?

It has to be said.

Han Zhe, the head of the family, is quite ruthless.

The people in the hall also praised one after another, "The head of the family is wise!"

Han Zhe's expression turned cold, "Everyone, the real test will begin after the New Year. Rest and prepare for now. After Zhao Ning returns to the court, it will be at least a year of hard battles!"

"Yes!"

Everyone present responded in unison.

Indeed!

The real test will come after the New Year.

During this time, everyone in the Han family has been under great pressure. Now that they have figured out Zhao Ji's details, they should take a few days to rest.

After all, the situation in Han Tu is currently very ideal. Since the first wave of refugees was suppressed, the people of Han Tu have become more obedient, and there is basically no thought of migration.

Their obedience even made them anxious for a while, thinking that there might be some organization deliberately instigating them to stay put.

If it weren't for a thorough investigation and no trace of a mysterious organization was found, they wouldn't have been able to let go of their worries.

It seems that all of this is the result of the Han family's previous measures.

This move by Han Zhe is also a continuation of a series of previous measures, and it should be effective.

This wave is stable!

At least before the new migration order is announced, they can relax a little.

Have a good New Year!

Han Zhe canceled the summoning symbol and breathed a sigh of relief, but his gaze quickly turned to an old man.

He was looking at the old man, and the old man was looking at him.

His gaze was somewhat conflicted.

The old man's gaze was slightly evasive.

Finally.

He took a deep breath, "Father-in-law, His Majesty seems to be summoning you more frequently recently!"

The old man was none other than his father-in-law, Zheng Lian's father, and also the elder of the Zheng family - Zheng Lian.

Zheng Lian had known that Han Zhe would ask this question a long time ago, but hearing him ask it personally, his expression still seemed unnatural.

Especially now, all the members of the Han family in the council hall had their eyes on him.

He felt extremely uncomfortable, as if he was being publicly interrogated.

He sighed lightly, seemingly ambiguous, and said, "His Majesty may be too nostalgic!"

He did have a long acquaintance with Zhao Ji.

At that time, the Zheng family was still the Kingdom of Zheng.

He was still a hostage for exchange in the Kingdom of Li, and had some encounters with the young Zhao Ji.

He could only use this to fool him.

But the Han family obviously didn't buy it.

They specifically brought Zheng Lian to the council this time because Zheng Lian had been in frequent contact with Zhao Ji recently.

How could such a simple answer easily fool them?

"Oh?"

Han Zhe raised an eyebrow, "May I ask, Father-in-law, what did you and His Majesty talk about during the two out of three meetings?"

Zheng Lian felt a headache, "Poetry, songs, chess, calendar..."

Han Zhe continued to ask, "Besides that, was there anything else?"

"No!"

Zheng Lian answered with great certainty.

Because that was the truth.

Every time Zhao Ji summoned him, they would play chess and drink wine, without discussing any political matters.

But this kind of practical answer seemed to be ineffective.Let Han Zhe become more suspicious: "Father-in-law! Has the emperor never discussed political matters with you? For example... asking the Zheng family to help extradite the people to the new land?"

Zheng Lian knew that this was their goal and quickly waved his hand: "No, no! Absolutely not!"

"Not even once?"

"Not even once!"

Zheng Lian was really anxious: "I'm telling you, good son-in-law, Han and Zheng have already become one family. How could the Zheng family betray the Han family? If it weren't for you bringing me to Jiangcheng for the sake of the people in the new land, I would still be enjoying my life in Zheng territory. Why bother accepting the emperor's summons every day?

This is just a deception. You must not believe the emperor's instigation!"

"Hahaha!"

Han Zhe laughed heartily: "How could that be? Son-in-law also thinks so. The emperor's actions are definitely meant to sow discord. Our relationship as father-in-law and son-in-law is deep. How could it be affected by this?"

Zheng Lian breathed a sigh of relief: "It's good that you understand! I dare not defy the emperor's summons, even with my old bones!"

Han Zhe smiled: "Son-in-law just wanted to ask. Father-in-law, please don't take offense! I have already prepared the best ginseng tea for you to enjoy. Don't let this matter affect your spirit!"

Zheng Lian was greatly comforted: "You are thoughtful!"

"It's my duty!"

Han Zhe smiled and squinted his eyes: "As long as Han and Zheng are loyal and never betray each other, even if Father-in-law wants to eat the peaches from the heavens, I will pick them for you! I invited you here so early today, you must be tired. I will have someone take you down to rest."

"Hey hey hey!"

Feeling much more relaxed, Zheng Lian left the council hall under the guidance of the younger generation of the Han family.

After he left, the atmosphere in the hall did not ease at all.

Even if it was really sowing discord, there was no need for Zhao Ji to summon them so frequently!

And...

How could Zhao Ji not have the idea of incorporating the Zheng family even once?

But according to Zheng Lian, Zhao Ji never mentioned extraditing the people.

It's too absurd!

From Han Zhe's own situation and family relationship, he wanted to believe in his father-in-law, but this matter was really suspicious, suspicious to the point of panic.

But it couldn't be ruled out that Zhao Ji forcefully used deception to play a big game.

There was no evidence now, so it was not easy to draw conclusions. A public confrontation might have some effect.

He shook his head and dismissed the people in the council hall.

"Big brother!"

Han You stopped Han Zhe and whispered, "My men found this in Lord Zheng's study!"

As Lord Zheng frequently entered the palace, it raised alarm bells within the Han family.

Han Zhe was Lord Zheng's son-in-law, so naturally he couldn't let his men monitor him, as it could lead to irrational judgments due to their positions or emotions.

Even if he was the head of the family, it was not allowed.

Therefore, the people arranged by Han You to be by Lord Zheng's side were his subordinates.

Unexpectedly, they really found some valuable information.

Han Zhe took the paper and looked at it, feeling puzzled: "Calendar? What's wrong?"

The calendar was also a field of study.

Unfortunately, Lord Zheng was extremely enthusiastic about this field of study.

So when he mentioned discussing the calendar with Zhao Ji earlier, no one found it strange.

Han You smiled slightly: "I have already had the elders look at it. This calendar is quite mysterious, not like an ordinary one."

"Then..."

"It's the Zhuanxu ancient calendar!"

"..."

Han Zhe's heart trembled.

The Zhuanxu ancient calendar was the result of Emperor Zhuanxu's painstaking efforts and was naturally highly regarded in the field of calendars.

If one could fully understand the Zhuanxu ancient calendar, they would not only be able to grasp the yin and yang and the timing of the heavens, but even control the wind and rain.

It was so profound that it was no wonder the Kingdom of Chu was willing to pay such a high price for it.

But...

Why?

Why could his father-in-law obtain the Zhuanxu ancient calendar?

Just because of his enthusiasm for calendars, could he make Zhao Ji give him the Zhuanxu ancient calendar as a gift?

Zhao Ji's deception?

But the cost of this deception was too great, right?

Not even mentioning extraditing the people once!

After dozens of summonses, they never discussed official matters!

And in the end, they even discussed the Zhuanxu ancient calendar?

Who could believe this?

Han You said meaningfully, "Big brother! I know you want to believe in your father-in-law, but the Zheng family must be on guard! The Zheng family is behaving too obediently, so obedient that it's scary. Although your father-in-law is no longer the head of the family, as long as he has ideas, he can still influence the Zheng family's decisions!

The elders in the family prioritize the interests of the clan. Don't protect someone who shouldn't be protected for the sake of your own reputation!

You are the head of the Han family, and we should all look up to you!

But I also hope that you..."

"That's enough!"

Han Zhe frowned slightly: "Are you teaching me how to be a good family head?"

Han You choked: "No, I..."

Han Zhe sneered: "Tell the elders that I, Han Zhe, have proven countless times that I am the one leading the Han family to prosperity. I don't need anyone's guidance. Not to mention, the Zheng family hasn't made any moves yet. Even if they do, I can handle it in the most perfect way.

Some of the elders in the clan have too many ulterior motives. If they have something to say, they should say it face to face. We should handle official matters officially. I don't blame them.

But if they continue to instigate internal conflicts in private, I have ways to shut them up.

Also..."

He patted Han You's shoulder, and his smile became even more chilling: "Second brother! There are already enough public affairs in the Han family. You don't need to secretly handle too much. Let me give you a piece of advice, if you walk the night road too often... you might encounter ghosts!"

Han You's body stiffened, and beads of cold sweat appeared on his forehead.

Han Zhe glanced at him: "Go to the Wei family and inform them of the result of our Han family's meeting."

"Yes, yes!"

Han You nodded repeatedly and hurriedly left the Han residence.Han Zhe looked at his back, his expression indescribably gloomy.

...

Chongli Palace.

Ying Wuji listened to Zhao Ji's story, his brows furrowing.

Unable to hold back any longer, he said, "Isn't this too harsh? You've summoned him dozens of times and never discussed any official matters, just chatted with him?"

"It's not just chatting!"

Zhao Ji smiled and took a sip of warm wine. "Zheng Lian's chess skills are exquisite, and he has a good understanding of the calendar. After chatting with him so many times, I have gained a lot of insight into Zhuanxu's ancient calendar."

Ying Wuji: "..."

This father-in-law of his is really ruthless.

Each meeting lasted nearly an hour, adding up to at least three days and three nights.

He had chatted with an old man for three days and three nights.

And they even discussed half of Zhuanxu's ancient calendar.

What's even more twisted is that they didn't discuss any official matters at all.

In this way, even if the relationship between the Han and Zheng families is close, there must be doubts in their hearts, right?

If they had discussed the matter of relocating the people even once, it would have been fine.

But the problem is that they didn't mention it at all.

Even if Zheng Lian is Han Zhe's biological father, Han Zhe should not be able to bear it anymore, right?

"But, Your Majesty!"

Ying Wuji grinned. "If Zheng Lian is careful, the Han family won't be able to discover the ancient calendar!"

Zhao Ji shook his head. "No! Zheng Lian is extremely enthusiastic about the calendar. The part I revealed to him requires a lot of calculations. He can't resist it! Unless the Han family is blind, it's impossible for them not to discover it. But whether they can see through the tricks is up to their own abilities!"

Ying Wuji asked again, "But even if the Han and Zheng families are on guard against each other, at most they will cause internal conflicts. As long as the Zheng family doesn't help us, won't it still..."

Zhao Ji interrupted with a smile, "I can't buy Zheng Lian, I can't buy the head of the Zheng family, but can't I buy a small role? As long as there is enough animosity between the Han and Zheng families, any small change can make their alliance collapse."

Ying Wuji: "..."

This father-in-law is really cunning!

He, as a young man, can't compete with him at all!

In this relocation, as long as there is a problem on the Zheng family's side, it will all be blamed on Zheng Lian.

As long as Zheng Lian is wronged, the animosity between the two families will only grow.

His secret manipulation is almost a done deal.

But his father-in-law shouldn't know about his manipulation, so why...

Zhao Ji asked with a smile, "Are you trying to say that we are at a disadvantage this time and it will be difficult to succeed?"

"Yes, a bit."

Ying Wuji nodded.

Zhao Ji sighed lightly, "This relocation was never an easy task, and we should do our best. Do what we can and leave the rest to fate! Relocating the people is not something that can be done overnight. As long as you have enough pawns, there will be a day when they will be useful! Do you understand?"

"I understand!"

Ying Wuji smiled and clasped his hands. "Thank you for your guidance, Your Majesty!"

Zhao Ji looked at him with a smile. "Learn well, because in the future, it will be you who will do such unethical things!"

Ying Wuji: "..."

He is now considering whether to have children early.

Otherwise, if he does too many unethical things, he might end up with a child without an anus.

Speaking of which, Zheng Lian is also a bit pitiful.

Such a miserable old man.

Zhao Ji also didn't seem particularly happy. He frowned for a while and suddenly asked, "Wuji, why are the people of Wei and Han so obedient? They actually refuse to relocate?"

Why?

Of course, it's because of your good son-in-law!

Ying Wuji grinned and casually said, "It's probably because their local officials have occupied the high ground of public opinion, right? To be honest, it's quite tricky! I remember when I deduced it, it didn't seem so difficult!"

It seems that this time, it will be a protracted battle. Your Majesty, you have experience in dealing with such matters, and I must learn from you!"

Although Zhao Ji was quite satisfied with his humble attitude, the situation this time was indeed giving him a headache.

He witnessed Ying Wuji's deduction from beginning to end.

The battle for people is always a particularly intense process, but with his good son-in-law using all means, it should still be effective.

But this time...

The reaction of the people of Wei and Han was beyond his expectations.

What kind of confusion did Wei Huan and Han Zhe, those two old thieves, put into their people?

It seems that this time, it will be a tough battle!

Zhao Ji was already prepared for a protracted battle. The recruitment of people will definitely not be as smooth as he had previously imagined. He no longer hoped for the dream of prosperity and development from the first year of the new land. He only hoped that the people recruited within six months could meet the construction needs of the new land.

It's difficult!

Reforming is difficult!

Ying Wuji saw his furrowed brows and comforted him with a toothy smile, "Your Majesty, there's no need to worry too much. Reform is the trend. As Mencius said, those who gain the Way will have many helpers, while those who lose the Way will have few. As long as we follow the trend, maybe someone with insight will come forward to help. I think the Daoist school is not bad, they seem quite determined!"

Zhao Ji couldn't help but smile.

In the past, the Daoist school advocated tranquility and inaction, even the Yang Zhu school, which had unique ideas, still inherited this way of thinking.

But this time, the Daoist school seems to be very interested in reform. Whether it's the help of the Yang Zhu school to Ying Wuji or Laozi's direct attack on the Muye stele, publicly announcing the ownership of the sword used to assassinate Zhou Tianzi, all of this shows their enthusiasm for the "trend".

Thinking of this.

Zhao Ji felt much more relaxed, but still reprimanded with a stern face, "Although that's the case, the person in power cannot rely on external forces for political affairs. In the days to come, you must not relax. As long as I summon you, you must come to the palace immediately. In the future, the harmony of the family and the country will rely on you and Ning'er to support each other!"

"Yes!"

Ying Wuji grinned and said, "Your Majesty, rest assured! Your child will study hard and share your worries for the Crown Prince!"Family and country live in harmony, supporting each other.

The old man's words became more and more pleasing, regardless of how much was sincere or fake.

But Ying Wuji loved to listen.

And this time, he planted a psychological suggestion. After some time, when Kingdom Li becomes lively, this great achievement will surely be credited to the Daoist school.

Zhao Ji was satisfied with his answer and waved his hand, saying, "Alright! You can go back now. If you have nothing to do, go to the Mohist Guild more often. The guild is very useful in the new land!"

"Alright!"

Ying Wuji smiled and bid farewell, humming a tune as he left the palace.

After leaving the palace, he got on a carriage and leisurely headed towards the Mohist Guild.

These days, he was truly busy.

Not only did he have online classes at night, but he was also summoned by Zhao Ji every day.

Fortunately, Zhao Ji only strategized and gave advice, and he also listened to classes. It wasn't too tiring.

So most of his energy was focused on the Mohist Guild.

This time, many Mohist craftsmen followed the northern expedition. As long as they conquered a piece of land, temporary residences would be built immediately to accommodate refugees from all over.

After all, the Mohist school was used to being marginalized in the courts of various countries and attached great importance to the reform in Kingdom Li this time.

They even came without waiting for their wages.

They were truly devoted.

The construction team followed the army.

The research and development team was still working hard in Jiangcheng.

These days, whenever Ying Wuji had nothing to do, he would go to the Mohist Guild. Although his practical skills were lacking, with the Mohist school's deduction techniques, his theoretical foundation was solid. Whenever he saw Wu Dan, he would talk endlessly, experiencing the pleasure of being a strong-willed king for several days.

The Mohist Guild was located in the south of the city, which was relatively poor compared to the rest of Jiangcheng, but it was lively.

The cost of living was low.

There were many nearby craftsmen, making it convenient for outsourcing.

There was no place more suitable for the Mohist Guild than the south of the city.

When Ying Wuji arrived, the entire guild was bustling with activity. All non-core businesses were outsourced, and the Mohist craftsmen were all engaged in the production of agricultural and industrial tools. After all, these were the core of the new land's construction.

On the other hand, Wu Dan had a lot of free time and was standing behind a female Mohist, giving instructions.

"Tempering! Tempering! Hey, why are you so bad? The timing of tempering is crucial, but you're ten breaths late. This won't give it enough toughness! Let me teach you. I'll give you a chance to practice tonight at midnight."

As he spoke, he was about to hold the female Mohist's hand.

The female Mohist didn't tolerate him and kicked Wu Dan's butt with one foot. "Young Master Dan, if you're restless, go out and take a walk. I beg you, go to the high-class brothel, okay? With your small build, you won't even get any benefits!"

Wu Dan scratched his head in frustration. "I'm not trying to get benefits, I genuinely want to be in a relationship with you!"

"Oh? I didn't know."

"Because it's a secret crush!"

"Are you sure it's a secret crush and not a secret plot?"

"Damn it..."

Wu Dan was a bit annoyed and scratched his head while fuming.

Outside the blacksmith's shed.

Ying Wuji grabbed Zhai Yun's neck and said, "Old Zhai, why is Wu Dan so miserable here? He's a prince of a country and a small leader who understands technology. How can any Mohist kick him around?"

Zhai Yun was speechless. "If he had no status and didn't understand technology, it wouldn't be as simple as getting kicked around. Wu Dan's behavior is a disaster in our Mohist Guild, even though he's not a bad person."

Ying Wuji: "..."

Although it was a bit hurtful to say the truth, it was indeed the case.

These Mohists were all masochists and had strong self-restraint.

Not to mention Wu Dan.

Even his brother, Wujiguo, violated the two major iron rules of "frugality" and "non-indulgence" by being here.

It was only natural for Wu Dan to be despised.

Zhai Yun chuckled and added, "But they don't really despise Wu Dan. If he were to seriously pursue a relationship, many female Mohists would be willing. Unfortunately, after the incident with the Li family girl, he claimed to have found true love and acted as if he had fallen into a love affair. But what he could give the Li family girl, he couldn't give to other girls. The Mohists have a strong obsession with purity. Which girl would be willing to be with him? Wu Dan is really something. He should find another way to deal with his emotional pain."

"Alright!"

Ying Wuji smirked and stopped dwelling on this issue. He waved at Wu Dan and said, "Danzi, Danzi, come here!"

Wu Dan saw that it was Ying Wuji and quickly escaped from the awkward atmosphere, running out of the blacksmith's shed. "Big Brother Wujiguo is here. Are you thirsty? Danzi will pour you some water!"

He was quite satisfied with the title "Danzi".

After all, Ying Wuji was a great benefactor of the Mohist Guild and held a high position in the hearts of the Mohists. Especially after designing the "Quyuan Plow," the extremely high efficiency of cultivating land shocked the Mohists, and he was revered as a big shot.

Even Wujiguo called him "brother."

As his brother, he felt proud.

"No need! How can I let Danzi go through the trouble of pouring water?"

Ying Wuji put his arm around Wu Dan's neck and walked towards a secluded place.

Recently, he had gained a new understanding of Wu Dan's exceptional practical skills. It had been a great help to him. It was no problem to call him "Danzi" or even "brother"!

When there was no one around, he lowered his voice and asked, "Dan, how is the business of improving fireworks that I entrusted to you going?"

"Fireworks are definitely a piece of cake!"

Wu Dan confidently patted his chest but then furrowed his dark eyebrows. "But your gunpowder is really powerful. Isn't it a waste to focus on fireworks?"

Of course!

It was a waste indeed.However, the damage inflicted by gunpowder weapons is indeed limited against experts, and the progress of related mine excavation is quite behind. Moreover, he doesn't have a particular understanding of gunpowder weapons.

Whether it's the deployment cycle or the actual combat effect, both are significant issues.

On the other hand, the New Year is approaching, so why not take some time to flirt with girls.

Ying Wuji laughed, "Isn't it too difficult to put into use? Don't rush, let's first make some fireworks, and make a big fortune next year!"

"Brother Wuji!"

Wu Dan patted Ying Wuji's shoulder with a heartache, "You were persuading me every day a while ago, saying that if there are no women in your heart, you can naturally become a spirit. But once you get married, why do you fall?"

Ying Wuji stubbornly retorted, "How is this falling? Dan, don't you think it's easy to use gunpowder?"

"Is it difficult?"

Wu Dan was a bit smug, "Do you want to see Brother Dan's high-reaching gunpowder?"

Ying Wuji: "!!!"

(End of the chapter)