Chapter 179: Chapter 179

Indeed, under what pretense?

As a regional prince, even though Qizhou had become self-sufficient with its own independent military and administrative systems—no longer relying on the imperial court for provisions or armaments—nominally, Qizhou remained merely a subordinate territory under the court's jurisdiction.

If Prince Jin's mansion took over in name, regardless of how the imperial court might react, the question remained: would this land belong to them or the court?

At this thought, everyone momentarily fell silent. But in the next instant, the generals' eyes in the hall blazed with fervor.

Among them, General Pang—a burly man with a thick beard—was the first to rise, slamming his massive palm onto the table:

"Damn it all! I've long been sick of that useless court! No provisions, no reinforcements—back when Qizhou was struggling, those bastards didn't lift a finger! And last year they had the gall to come begging from us!"

Hell, look at the state of things now! All they know is internal squabbles!

With the nation on the brink of collapse, what's the point of fighting?!

"Your Highness, General Pang speaks truth. As His Majesty grows older, the court grows increasingly chaotic, with the princes embroiled in vicious infighting! Despite knowing our difficulties, the military supplies sent to Qizhou Prefecture diminish yearly."

After exchanging glances, another elder general stood following Pang's outburst.

As the discussion continued, just as An Ning had anticipated, the chaotic debate swiftly unified into a single resolute plea:

"To protect our land and the millions in Qizhou Prefecture, we beg Your Highness to ascend the throne at once!"

"We pledge our lives to serve our new emperor!"

Tsk, how quickly their address changed!

Indeed, who would willingly remain subservient when capable of autonomy? Especially when one's strength had grown formidable enough to inspire fear.

After one last glance at Xiao Qi's visibly solemn expression at the head of the hall, An Ning lightly stepped out.

Nearby, Xie Heng had long been waiting. Bathed in sunset, his already slender frame appeared even more elongated.

"Zi'an's foresight leaves me in awe!"

Smiling at the approaching figure, Xie Heng was now certain: every event today had been anticipated—if not orchestrated—by this person since their agreement three years ago, or perhaps even earlier when they first stepped into the limelight.

What remarkable intellect!

He'd once mistaken them for being merely adept at administrative affairs.

Had their consistently harmless demeanor and scholarly image deceived him all along?

At this realization, Xie Heng shook his head with a wry chuckle.

"I owe much to Brother Xie's cooperation as well!"

An Ning replied with equal warmth.

Between the wise, words were often unnecessary. The early spring air carried a slight chill as their mutual understanding solidified in that shared glance.

Once Qizhou's intentions were confirmed, the Yan delegation arrived swiftly—this time led by none other than Emperor Wu of Yan himself.

After customary negotiations, the Yan emperor unsurprisingly expressed a desire to tour the region. Noting An Ning's composed demeanor, Prince Jin granted permission.

Observing this exchange, the Yan emperor and his minister shared a meaningful look.

"That must be the legendary Chief Secretary Chu, whose talent rivals Guan Zhong's?"

The key figure behind Qizhou's remarkable transformation in such short time.

Gazing at the bustling streets, Emperor Wu sighed deeply, his tone carrying newfound weight.

Prime Minister Xun Ji nodded slightly beside him.

"Truly... heroes emerge from among the youth!"

As Emperor Wu was about to speak, his attention was caught by a young man in plain cotton clothes devouring meat and wine at a nearby tavern.

Though barely mealtime, the small establishment was already packed with lively patrons chatting and laughing over meals...

In Qizhou, even commoners could regularly enjoy meat—even precious beef wasn't exclusive to nobility.

Unlike in Yan, where since winter's onset and Qizhou's trade embargo, even stationed soldiers struggled for warm gruel.

Remembering his new recruits shivering in thin winter uniforms, Emperor Wu's eyes grew moist.

Equally transfixed, Xun Ji sighed: "Since Chief Secretary Chu took full financial control, even Qizhou's barren hills yield harvests. Not only has grain production soared, but their livestock techniques are truly revolutionary!"

Chickens, ducks, cattle, sheep, alongside various grains and fruits...

"Sometimes a single modest estate can sustain hundreds!"

Xun Ji's voice held undisguised marvel.

As another impoverished neighbor, unlike the belatedly aware Great Zhou, Yan had noticed these changes earliest.

They'd attempted replication, but whether due to flawed methods or other reasons, their crops failed miserably, livestock perished from disease—some even causing epidemics—while pond fish not only failed to fatten but mostly died.

As for sustainable cycles? They understood nothing!

Xun Ji, ever perceptive, had suspected those early "benefits" were traps. But faced with starving soldiers, who could refuse?

"Your Majesty, this subject is incompetent..."

Had he possessed even a third of that man's ability, they wouldn't be forced into submission now.

"Why say so? Without your counsel, I'd have fallen victim to my lord's treachery long ago." Surprisingly, Emperor Wu appeared more at peace than his minister:

"Besides, our current situation isn't so bad!"

"Huai Zhi, truth be told, since ascending the throne, I've constantly worried—how can we survive this turbulent era?" Especially those loyal soldiers who followed him despite being branded traitors.

Gazing at the vibrant, aromatic marketplace, Emperor Wu finally laughed freely:

"Huai Zhi, rather than 'Your Majesty,' I'd prefer you call me 'General' as before!"

In the 24th year of Qiming's reign, amidst public jubilation, Qizhou declared full independence, swiftly attracting numerous smaller factions to pledge allegiance.

On the second day of his enthronement, amid fawning eunuchs' flattery, Emperor Jianyuan's first imperial edict—written on bright yellow silk—was delivered directly to the Chu household.