Transmigration: From Farmer To Empress-Chapter 1953 - 1960: Childhood Engagement (1)

The Emperor spoke, and naturally there was silence below. Nangong Yi glanced around and solemnly said, "Months ago, I received guidance from a wise man. Next year, a severe drought will occur in Great Jin, leading millions of people to lose their homes and become displaced. I believe this matter is of great importance. To prevent this, I have decided to stockpile grain and promote water conservation extensively. Starting this year, the country will vigorously promote drought-resistant crops such as corn, white potatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and sorghum. Seeds will be distributed by the state, and these crops must be planted nationwide; those who defy this order will be punished for disobedience."

Everyone listened, exchanging glances, unsure of what to say. The Emperor’s words were too mysterious; even the Imperial Astronomical Observatory couldn’t predict such events. They merely observe celestial phenomena and calculate the seasons, setting calendars, but cannot predict these disasters; otherwise, last year’s earthquake would have been predicted, and that tragedy avoided.

Given this, how did His Majesty know?

Could it be a divine trickster, or truly a wise man like Master Li Guo who calculated it?

But even Master Li Guo might not have such abilities, right?

Stockpiling grain and promoting water conservation isn’t an affair that can be accomplished with merely several thousand or ten thousand pieces of silver. The earth dragon turnover last year greatly depleted national power, leaving the national treasury empty. Further stockpiling grain or promoting water projects could either mobilize the entire nation’s power or shake the foundation of Great Jin. Such a decision based solely on the words of a Jianghu sorcerer is really hard to believe.

Duke Li Guo advised, "Your Majesty, purchasing food, promoting irrigation, conserving farmland, and preventing disasters are indeed beneficial to the country and people. However, the earth dragon turnover last year has greatly damaged national power. It seems we lack the capacity for these tasks now."

Nangong Yi replied, "Although Old Duke’s words hold some truth, next year’s drought is predetermined to happen; it’s related to the people’s livelihood and is of great significance. Even if it’s difficult, it must be done."

"Your Majesty, I want to know which wise man guided Your Majesty. Is this person reliable? Could they be a spy sent by other countries to harm Great Jin?" Another minister raised doubts.

Upon hearing this, Nangong Yi coldly said, "According to your words, am I the kind of emperor who can easily be fooled? Or can you bear the consequences if the disaster strikes next year?"

The questioning minister saw the Emperor’s displeasure and realized he had violated His Majesty’s taboo, quickly kneeling on the ground, saying, "I dare not question the Emperor’s decision, but this matter is too extraordinary, so I pondered more on it."

Nangong Yi coldly said, "It’s good that you dared to speak your thoughts, but I’m afraid most of those present share your thoughts, just afraid to speak. I can responsibly assure everyone that I am not a foolish ruler; I wouldn’t joke about the state of the country. I have repeatedly confirmed that the disaster next year will definitely happen. Therefore, considering the people, these matters are imperative."

Cai Wei also stood up and said, "Even if there is no drought next year, stockpiling food and promoting water conservation is beneficial without harm. It’s better to be prepared than caught off guard when disasters strike. Moreover, although stockpiling grain and promoting water conservation are costly, as long as everyone works together, it may not shake the nation’s foundation."

Today, Nangong Yi gathered the court nobles, vassal kings, and envoys from various nations not only to celebrate his birthday but also for another purpose—to call on everyone to donate!

The donation suggestion came from Cai Wei, and during the process, Nangong Yi led the way by donating for next year’s disaster prevention efforts, with the rest being voluntary. Donating more or less is fine, as long as one puts forth effort.