Mu Zhi smiled subtly and addressed Li Mi and Peng Guo, “I have long been stationed in the northwest, where countless soldiers are garrisoned across numerous provinces. The land rents and military farms are insufficient to sustain them, leading us to adopt the ‘He Di’ method of grain procurement. I propose that this same method be implemented in Guanzhong.”

　　Peng Guo inquired, “What precisely is this 'he di' method?”

　　Mu Zhi responded, “It entails the government purchasing grain from the populace with state funds to supply the military. The authorities negotiate the grain prices with the citizens, a process referred to as ‘He Di’. Yet, this method is far from perfect.”

　　Before Mu Zhi could finish, Li Mi interjected, “Are you concerned, Yang, that the government might impose household quotas, enforce deadlines for purchases, and compel households to sell at low prices?”

　　Mu Zhi smiled and remarked, “Li, your wit is truly remarkable. Before I could even mention the imperfections, you had already discerned them. Today, I really feel an instant affinity with you. Might I propose that you two linger a few more days, to study together the Book of Changes and the Art of War?”

　　Li Mi replied, “Indeed, I am inclined to do so”. Peng Guo muttered aside, “The moment you two hit it off, you’ve cast me aside? If the ‘He Di’ method is imperfect, do you two scholars have any suggestions for improvement? I need to report back to the court when I return to the capital.”

　　Mu Zhi shook his head and remarked, “I haven’t yet devised an alternative. Nevertheless, since the ‘he di’ approach may alleviate our immediate concerns, let us employ it for the time being.”

　　Li Mi and Peng Guo spent four or five days in Liangzhou. Each day, Mu Zhi and Li Mi engaged in long conversations, delving into topics ranging from the Book of Changes to esoteric arts like Qimen Dunjia, Huang-Lao philosophy, and the various schools of thought. Peng Guo, finding it difficult to join the discussion, retreated to his chamber to draft memorials, presenting proposals for the ‘He Di’ method to the court.

　　Upon their return to Chang’an, Peng Guo, recommended by Niu Xianke, presented the memorial outlining the ‘He Di’ strategy to Emperor Xuanzong. Delighted upon perusing it, Emperor Xuanzong addressed Niu Xianke, “Given the bountiful harvest and the plight of our farmers due to low grain prices, I hereby decree a thirty percent increase in the current grain prices. Additionally, procure one million bushels of grain from the vicinity of the Eastern and Western Capitals, and halt this year’s grain shipments from the Jianghuai region[ Which situated between the Yangtze River and the Huai River in eastern China, is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and thriving economy.

　　].”

　　Henceforth, with ample grain reserves in Guanzhong, Emperor Xuanzong no longer made personal visits to the Eastern Capital. The grain taxes from Henan and Hebei, originally destined for the Hanzhong and Taiyuan granaries, were redirected to local granaries instead.

　　On this day, Zhao Yong once again came to discuss military matters in the Western Liang army with Mu Zhi. Zhao Yong grumbled, “After the Tubo forces were repelled by my brother’s Six-Flower Formation last year, they dare not attack head-on. However, the nuisance persists with the constant harassment from the disciple Nie Chi and his two followers. Chen Gang is nothing but a worthless coward! All he does is superficial gestures. If the Tubo monks learn of the lax military preparations under Chen Gang’s rule in the Western Liang army, they will surely return with a vengeance. What should we do?”

　　Mu Zhi rubbed his chin thoughtfully and said, “I would like to meet these three master and disciples myself.”

　　“These three are highly skilled martial artists, while Yang, you are not versed in martial arts. Could it be that you intend to engage in combat with the Tubo monks like the young Mo Artist did back then? Or perhaps, Brother, do you possess unparalleled martial prowess yet conceal it?” Zhao Yong burst into laughter, then turned his gaze towards the large gourd engraved with the character “墨”(Mo).

　　It turned out that the master of Nie Chi was called Deji Yundan, a prime minister of Tubo and a monk, referred to in Tubo language as Bochanbu, who possessed formidable martial skills. Nie Chi also had a senior disciple named Ciren. The three of them often stirred up trouble under the pretext of seeking Mo Zhu for revenge, intending to provoke conflict between the Tang Dynasty and Tubo.

　　More than twenty years ago, the three disciples used the pretext of seeking Mo Zhu for revenge to cause trouble at the martial arts convention held at Yueyang Tower. It was in the second year of Kaiyuan (714 AD) when the innkeeper of Qian Gui Alley issued invitations to the leaders and disciples of various major martial sects such as the Transportation Gang, Salt Gang, Beggars’ Gang, Baochang Temple, and Mount Tiantai to gather at Yueyang Tower by the banks of the Miluo River for zongzi-eating festivities and dragon boat races.

　　The innkeeper Qian was a notable figure. Since the minting of the Kaiyuan Tongbao by Emperor I of Tang, Li Yuan, the Tang Dynasty mostly minted currency in the northern regions, leading to a shortage of currency in the south. Coin mints, known as “Qianjian”, were scarce in the southern regions, which were historically prosperous with bustling trade. Consequently, due to the imbalance between supply and demand, many unscrupulous merchants began privately minting coins using inferior copper mixed with iron or tin, known as “bad money”. The government turned a blind eye to this practice, and privately minted coins were accepted in circulation among the populace.

　　In Hengzhou, there was a wealthy merchant named Qian Tangjiang, who operated businesses in the Qian Gui Alley. He specialized in storing and safeguarding money and goods for others, with branches established in Hengzhou, Binzhou, Yuezhou, and the two capitals. Qian Tangjiang had a wide circle of friends and was on friendly terms with high-ranking officials and nobles. In Hengzhou, he engaged in the private minting of “bad money”.

　　Qian Tangjiang possessed some martial arts skills himself and, due to the nature of his business in Qian Gui Alley, where he needed to guard against thieves, he recruited a group of martial artists from the martial world to act as guards for his business. These martial artists were commonly referred to as “Innkeeper Qian”, and the establishment they guarded became known as Qian’s Inn.

　　The Transportation Gang and the Salt Gang frequently engaged in transactions involving currency with Qian’s Inn, leading Qian Tangjiang to develop close personal relationships with the leaders of the Transportation Gang, Master Han, and the Salt Gang, Master Huang.

　　The Transportation Gang and the Salt Gang were locked in a bitter feud, disrupting the operations of all three factions. Qian Tangjiang sought to intervene. His primary goal was to broker peace between the rival gangs, ensuring they ceased their territorial disputes and allowing all parties to conduct their affairs with orderliness. Secondly, he saw an opportunity to bolster the reputation of Qian’s Inn within the martial world. This would facilitate broader business dealings with both lawful and unlawful factions, particularly in currency transactions.

　　On the fifth day of May, by the banks of the Miluo River, flutes and pipes harmonized, while boatmen sang lively and spirited boat songs. The melodies, songs, oar strokes, and the sound of water combined to create a magnificent symphony. On both shores, elegant ladies gathered in crowds, adorned in flowing robes with silver hairpins gleaming in the sunlight. Spectators thronged the scene, captivated by the spectacle.

　　Qian Tangjiang had long prepared a feast at Yueyang Tower, complete with fragrant wines, a variety of zongzi, fine robes, mugwort, sachets, and other offerings, to be presented as gifts to disciples from various major martial sects attending the gathering.

　　Emperor Xuanzong, Li Longji, once composed a poem in praise of the Dragon Boat Festival. The poem reads:

　　“As Dragon Boat Festival arrives in midsummer, The time is clear, and the days grow long. Salted plums already complement the cauldron, And fermented rice cakes are passed around the wine cups.

　　Echoes of ancient traditions linger, Years accumulate and memories endure. Beside the pavilion, the hibiscus thrives, By the water's edge, the scent of reeds fills the air.

　　Billions return to celebrate longevity, Together ensuring prosperity and harmony. Loyalty and righteousness, if unwavering, Shall leave behind a fragrance for future generations.”

　　The Transportation Gang and the Salt Gang were both involved in waterborne commerce, so the dragon boat racing was their specialty. Disciples from both gangs arrived at the gathering paddling dragon boats, each determined to outdo the other and be the first to arrive.

　　The scene unfolds: “Behold the dragon boats, behold the dragon boats, along the banks, waters stir in a ceaseless flow. Amidst the melodies, evening hastens, Suddenly, paddles drum the river’s heart. Best of all, in the dragon boat race, the victory banner unfurls. Competing for the lead, flags wave and drums beat proudly. In the swift dragon boat contest, as fast as the wind, two stars twinkle, each shining in harmony.”

　　The leaders of the Transportation Gang, Han Wanli, and the Salt Gang, Huang Fuli, ignored each other, exchanging only a few words of courtesy with Qian Tangjiang before each leading their disciples up to Yueyang Tower.

　　Speaking of the Transportation Gang, since the construction of the Grand Canal during the reign of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty, the transportation industry flourished greatly during the Sui and Tang dynasties. Helmsmen, sailors, and boatmen congregated, their numbers swelling significantly. These individuals sought their livelihoods on the waterways, leading to the formation of gangs known as the Transportation Gang.

　　Originally, sailors and boatmen on the canal boats were often subjected to bullying. However, in recent years, the newly appointed leader of the Transportation Gang, Han Wanli, has worked to expand and strengthen the gang. With its increased numbers, numerous boats, wide-reaching influence, and significant presence, the Transportation Gang has become a force to be reckoned with. Should the Transportation Gang cease its operations, the provision of food and drink, annual grain supplies, and military provisions for the people in various counties would immediately be affected. As a result, local authorities and even the imperial court dare not underestimate the influence of the Transportation Gang.

　　Han Wanli, a descendant of the renowned Sui Dynasty general Prince Pinnan Han Qinhu, inherited his ancestor’s formidable traits. At the age of thirty-four, he boasted a robust physique with a broad back and sturdy frame, his countenance fierce with a square jaw and a beard resembling that of a tiger’s. Known for his rugged appearance, he often sported an untamed beard. His weapon of choice was a large, crude iron blade with a narrow, straight edge, a small guard, and a long handle. He was renowned for his mastery of the ancestral Han family swordsmanship passed down through generations.

　　After Han Qinhu’s conquest of Chen, the Five Generals presented him with the celestial mandate to become the ruler of the underworld. Han agreed but requested a three-day leave of absence. Emperor Sui Wen, Yang Jian, hosted a farewell banquet for him. On the third day, two figures in purple and crimson robes arrived on dark clouds, claiming to be officials from the heavenly court and the underworld, inviting Han to assume the role of King Yama without further delay. Thus, bidding farewell to the court officials and his family, Han Qinhu departed for the underworld.

　　As Han Qinhu was revered by the common people as King Yama, he earned the nickname “Yanluo Cao” (Yanluo the Boatman) in the martial world.

　　Throughout history, the government controlled the salt and iron trades, but smuggling private salt brought substantial profits. Many wealthy merchants and magnates in the Jiangnan region were rough characters who engaged in smuggling private salt together to seek personal gain. They often colluded with the authorities in illicit activities, leading to the formation of gangs known as the Salt Gang.

　　The Salt Gang and the Transportation Gang were locked in frequent skirmishes over territorial disputes, their rivalry akin to fire and water. Leading the Salt Gang at this time was Huang Fuli, hailing from a lineage of salt merchants in Jiangnan. At thirty-nine years of age, Huang Fuli boasted rosy lips, white teeth, and a pair of striking eyes that gleamed with intelligence. Adept in both equestrian skills and archery, he possessed the remarkable ability to hit the bullseye from a hundred paces and wielded a long sword with finesse.

　　Huang Fuli’s father originally wished for his son to study diligently and participate in the imperial examinations, advocating self-discipline and ritual reverence. Hence, he named him “Fuli”, which means ritual reverence in Chinese. However, from a young age, Huang Fuli showed a keen interest in swordsmanship, archery, and horsemanship, rather than scholarly pursuits. Despite being recommended as a local candidate, he failed to pass the imperial examinations after three years of attempts, only demonstrating minimal proficiency in writing and composing amateur poetry.

　　Despite Huang Fuli’s considerable martial prowess, he possessed a gentle and refined demeanor more befitting of a lady. Soft-spoken and delicate in his speech, he lacked the roughness often associated with martial figures of the Jianghu. He exuded the air of a wealthy young gentleman raised in the lap of luxury, rather than that of a rugged individual from the martial world.

　　On Mount Tiantai, the leader of the Qing faction, Sima Chengzhen, arrived at the gathering accompanied by two disciples. Sima Chengzhen, also known as Ziwei, was the twelfth generation leader of the Qing faction on Mount Tiantai. His courtesy name was Daoyin, and he was also known as Baiyunzi. Revered as Mister Baiyun by the martial world, he was a descendant of Sima Kui, the younger brother of Emperor Xuan of Jin Dynasty. From a young age, Sima Chengzhen devoted himself to scholarly pursuits and the study of Daoism. Uninterested in officialdom, he mastered the Shangqing Hanxiang Swordsmanship of Daoism and later created two martial arts techniques: “Form and Spirit Sitting and Forgetting Divine Art” and “Heaven Concealed Heart Sutra”.

　　Emperor Ruizong Li Dan once sought his counsel on the principles of Yin-Yang and numerology, to which Sima Chengzhen replied, “The Dao that can be trodden is not the enduring and unchanging Dao. The name that can be named is not the enduring and unchanging name. Conceived of as having no name, it is the Originator of heaven and earth; conceived of as having a name, it is the Mother of all things”[ Adopted translation version of Mr Burton Watson for “道者，损之又损，以至于无为，安肯劳心以学术数乎！”]. When Emperor Ruizong inquired how to govern the country with purity and non-action, Sima Chengzhen answered, “The nation is like the body. If one follows the natural order and harbors no selfish desires, then the world will be in harmony”. Despite Emperor Ruizong’s desire for him to remain at the court as an official, Sima Chengzhen insisted on returning to Mount Tiantai.

　　Sima Chengzhen was accomplished in both literature and martial arts. Besides his formidable martial skills, he was also highly esteemed in literary circles. He was considered one of the “Ten Friends of the Immortal School”, a group that included renowned poets such as Chen Zi’ang, Li Bai, Meng Haoran, Wang Wei, and He Zhizhang.

　　Seeing Mister Baiyun arrive at the gathering, Qian Tangjiang hurried forward to greet him with a beaming smile. “It is an honour to have you here today, Mister Baiyun. I am truly blessed,” he said, gesturing respectfully. “Please, take the seat of honour”.

　　As Qian Tangjiang looked up, he saw Sima Chengzhen dressed in Daoist robes, holding a fly-whisk. Despite his seventy-five years, he appeared as a man of ethereal grace, with the aura of an immortal, his hair white but his face youthful. Qian Tangjiang felt a deep respect well up within him.

　　Master Purun of Baochang Temple, along with several disciples, also arrived. Master Purun had a large head and broad forehead, with bright, keen eyes. He wore a kasaya robe and leaned on a Zen staff. Qian Tangjiang greeted them with a smile, personally escorting Master Purun and his disciples up to Yueyang Tower. He then arranged for his attendants to serve them fragrant tea, vegetarian snacks, and vegetarian rice dumplings.

　　Soon after, several raggedly dressed beggars arrived at the gathering. The lead beggar bowed to Qian Tangjiang and said, “Master Qian, our leader, Master Wu, is handling urgent matters in Luoyang and couldn’t attend. We beg your pardon. I am Jiao Gu, the leader of the Daxin branch of the Beggars’ Sect, attending on Master Wu’s behalf.” Master Qian nodded and instructed his attendants to escort the Beggars’ Sect members to their seats in the Yueyang Tower.

　　As the sun climbed higher in the sky, Qian Tangjiang ascended Yueyang Tower, using a handkerchief to dab away the sweat from his brow. With a genial smile, he addressed the gathered heroes, saying, “Esteemed heroes, today I have the pleasure of hosting you all here at Yueyang Tower. Firstly, to extend the traditional hospitality of a host and offer you the opportunity to indulge in our renowned Baixiao rice dumplings. Secondly, I wish to share a humble opinion. I believe it is imperative for the various martial sects of the Central Plains to eschew territorial disputes amongst themselves and instead seek reconciliation, presenting a unified front to the external world. As for the matter of territories, let us convene and negotiate for an amicable resolution. I am fortunate to have the esteemed presence of Master Sima from the Qing faction and Master Purun from Baochang Temple to bear witness to this occasion.”

　　Master Purun said, “Amitabha! In recent years, the emperor has ordered the secularization of thousands of monks and nuns, causing financial strain on our temple. Many have returned to secular life. Master Qian Tangjiang’s devout support and generous donations have been invaluable to our temple. It is truly immeasurable merit.”

　　As they conversed and laughed, they heard a booming voice from below Yueyang Tower, resonating like a temple bell. “Master Qian Tangjiang, I come uninvited. I hope you won’t take offense.” Despite the tower’s considerable height, the voice from below carried clearly to those above, a testament to the profound inner strength of the speaker. The assembled guests were struck with awe and wonder.

　　To find out who arrived uninvited, please stay tuned for the next chapter.