The Dao of Commerce

The seventh day.

"I've already come up with headlines for the Imperial Axiom and the Shibo Jia News."

Tulip District in Distant Harbor, a hub of wealth and power, is a mansion surrounded by greenery, with a small lake and an octagonal pavilion complementing each other. Its oriental style and cultural imprints from foreign lands have persisted for centuries.

Here, the sword fight came to an end. The young man in swordsman's attire removed his helmet and protective gear, revealing a head of smooth, short, golden hair, and a handsome face that was elegant and serene.

He handed the protective gear to the butler who was waiting nearby, then took a drink from the tray held by the maid, thanked him politely, took a sip of the freshly squeezed moonberry juice, and chuckled softly.

"The Great Dragon of Cathay Descends on Distant Harbor, Causing Grain Prices to Rise Sevenfold in Ten Days."

He raised his glass to his assistant, who had just practiced swordsmanship with him, and said, "Dear Mr. Aona, what do you think of this title?"

"Perfect, sir," the other man said, bowing slightly. "Just as perfect as your plan and your swordplay."

The blond young man smiled modestly, "Please don't shower me with too much praise, Mr. Aona. Too much praise can make one vain and lose sight of their place."

"But this praise is well-deserved, great Sir Luste, future president of the Weideng Chamber of Commerce. The barbaric Cathayan provoked and insulted the dignity of the Broken Isles with Forbidden Spell, and you responded with elegance through the power of economy and commerce." Aona bowed, placing a hand on his chest. "You have reclaimed honor for the Broken Isles."

"No, not yet."

Sir Luste, the elegant blond youth, placed the cup back on the maid's tray and washed his hands with a soft, slightly damp silk towel. "Grain prices haven't yet reached the point where public morale is completely broken. The turmoil, chaos, hunger, and death we desired haven't materialized. We've only won a small victory so far, and what's about to happen will determine how bountiful the spoils of this triumph will be."

He put the silk scarf back and strolled with his assistant and confidants through the oriental-style garden corridors, gazing at the lotus flowers in the lake.

"We must humiliate Kang De, plunge the Azure Waves Province, already turbulent due to grain price fluctuations, into a massive upheaval, and even ignite a conflict between Kang De and Goth's nobility, plunging Goth into internal strife. Only when we achieve this can we say we have achieved an initial victory..."

A shadow fell over Luste's handsome face. "Because we need to dispel, or at least temporarily dispel, Kang De's ambition to seize control of the Broken Isles... We need to show him our strength and determination, and also let the world see Kang De's weaknesses. He is not invincible; he also has areas where he is not good."

Aona responded with fervor, "Praise be to you, great sir! The entire Broken Isles will be grateful for your dedication and contributions, and I will follow you with even greater loyalty!"

The blond young man glanced at his assistant and said with a smile, "Thank you for your help and support, Mr. Aona. Now let's continue with our work."

Walking back through the arcade to the hall, in the study, where various intelligence reports and data were laid out, Luste said, "The economic penetration of the Broken Isles into Distant Harbor and even the Azure Waves Province ensures the implementation of the plan. We are buying up grain at higher prices, pushing up grain prices. The funds we have are just a lever to leverage more wealth to fight alongside us, those Goth's nobles..."

He gave a cold laugh, "They think we're just taking advantage of the situation to make money, that they want to rake in a fortune too, but they're wrong. This is war, and war is all about burning money. We haven't planned to get our money back from this economic war. Even if all the grain we've collected is stuck in our hands, I'll make sure this raging tsunami sweeps across the entire Goth!"

Luste walked to the map hanging on the wall. "--At this rate, all the grain that Kang De can gather will be sold out in about ten days. Our funds and leveraged wealth are enough to consume all the grain he can mobilize... because Rock Mountain Province and Valentan are not grain-producing areas to begin with!"

"As for the grain from the surrounding provinces and cities of Azure Waves Province, due to the soaring grain prices in other areas of the province, it will be snapped up by various places along the way based on the principle of proximity!"

"As for Danfeng Lucerne, Goth's control of the national reserves will not be used—the national granaries are controlled by bureaucrats in the prime minister's faction, and according to reliable sources, the Grand Duke has also had an irreconcilable conflict with Kang De, even a complete break. He can forget about getting a single grain from Danfeng Lucerne!"

"As for other sources, whether it's the elves or the Empire wanting to sell him grain, the journey is long and fraught with danger—it's too late!"

"Therefore, the tenth day is the best time to launch an attack!"

"Mr. Aona!"

"Yes, Sir!"

The blond young man turned to his deputy. "You'll handle this personally. Spread rumors in the Distant Harbor that Kang De is hoarding grain and driving up prices, that all the scarce food is in his hands, and that he's intercepting the grain the governor has transferred from various places. In short, the inability to buy or afford grain is all because of him! Then select some shrewd subordinates to pose as poor people!"

Aona responded loudly, then asked doubtfully, "Will people believe such rumors?"

Luste finally revealed a disdainful smile, "Why not?"

Town Hall.

"Alright, everyone, let's get started."

The governor gazed at his city from the floor-to-ceiling windows, while his staff stood solemnly behind him.

"Tell our allies, our companions, that it is time to get the servants in our homes and the serfs on the estates outside the city moving, let them weep, let them rage, let them cry out in the streets, let them question Kang De."

"Our guardian seems to favor these commoners, even considering them more important than nobles. Let the naive idealist see how foolish, fickle, gullible, and ungrateful these commoners are, and he will understand who he should trust, rely on, and please."

Day 10.

The governor said calmly, "On the tenth day, we'll confront Kang De."

The revelry continues.

Today, the Distant Harbor, and even the Azure Waves Province, are like a bloody piece of meat that has fallen into the sea, attracting a large number of sharks that are all ready to have a feast.

The eighth day.

Hunger is spreading.

The food distributed by Kang De that day had all been eaten, and the silver coins distributed had all been exchanged for grain. By the eighth day, all the grain they had bought was gone, and the price of grain had risen to a point that drove the poor to despair. Even if the able-bodied men in the family worked hard, their daily wages were not enough to buy enough food.

Sighs could be heard from every household, along with the cries of hungry children.

Why.

--Anxiety and restlessness caused by food shortages are growing.

By the night of the eighth day, whispering sounds could be heard in the Shadow.

It's like the chirping of mice.

"This has truly broadened my horizons."

The Dragon Girl glanced at the submitted report and shook her head, saying, "There's a reason why dragons and elves despise humans. They're a very noisy bunch, and they're fickle, superficial, impulsive, and inexplicable. Take these commoners, for example. They can't afford food, so they should be going to the governor or the grain merchants to settle accounts. Now they're having a negative impression of you. Why do they think you're responsible for them?"

She even laughed as she said this.

"Humans are so interesting. You give them money and a free meal, and they actually feel obligated to give you more... Why do humans think like that?"

Lily reached out and nudged Kang De: "So, you're going to kill them? Kill a few to teach them a lesson?"

Kang De remained calm, glancing sideways at the report without taking it to heart.

He said, "I won't stoop to the level of those who are starving."

The Dragon Girl smiled, "You're quite interesting too."

The Earthling glanced at her sideways. "Meow at me again."

"Give me the money."

"I want to get it for free."

"Don't even think about it!"

A knock sounded at the door, and in the blink of an eye, the Dragon Girl transformed into a haughty and aloof dragon lady. She walked to the bookshelf, picked up a book at random, and with her back to the door, her tall figure was incredibly graceful, with alluring curves.

Pack.

Kang De shouted, "Go!"

Han Zezheng had a few more gray hairs. He entered and bowed, saying, "Your Highness."

"Thanks for your hard work."

"Serving His Highness with such trust is worthwhile, no matter how arduous."

After Han Zezheng sat down, Kang De asked, "How did things go today?"

Old Han sighed, "Just barely managing... I've lived in Distant Harbor for decades and have never seen such a crazy price increase in grain. It feels very strange to me, and it even makes me vaguely aware of something..."

Kang De looked curious. "What?"

Han Zezheng slowly said, "This year's harvest is good, as is the case worldwide. Goth also did not experience a food shortage, so there is no reasonable reason for grain prices to rise. The reason for the price increase is entirely due to the malicious acquisition and manipulation by a small group of nobles and wealthy merchants. Many more rich people saw the potential for profit and joined in, becoming the driving force behind the soaring grain prices..."

He said, "My feeling is that in these increasingly frenzied transactions, grain has deviated greatly from its reasonable value. The extra value is actually a manifestation of people's greed. The huge profits have blinded them, making them rush to buy, even willing to be fools, genuinely believing that someone is willing to pay a higher price for grain that is not actually scarce..."

The Cathay merchant frowned.

"The influence of certain political events or other events, certain consensuses, large-scale financial manipulation, the spread of rumors, and the coercion of the majority..."

He remained silent for a long while before slowly saying, "I... I even think that this phenomenon can be replicated... and even exploited, in any country, among any race..."

"Because..."

Han Zezheng raised his head and glanced at Kang De: "Because greed is the original sin of all intelligent beings, as long as greed takes hold, some people will become fools."

"And it's not just food, it can be other things too..."

"No, rather, food is actually the worst option..."

Grass.

Kang De's expression became subtle.

Look, this guy is about to make a living through business.

Lily, standing nearby, even turned slightly to listen out of curiosity.

Kang De's mind raced, he pondered for a moment, and then said solemnly, "Han Zezheng."

The Cathayan suddenly awoke, straightened up, and shouted, "Present!"

"Things need to be done in order of priority; now is not the time to think about this."

"... Ah, yes, you're right!"

Han Zezheng broke out in a cold sweat and stood up. "This old minister did not neglect his duty for personal reasons. I have not dared to slack off in the slightest in the matters Your Highness has entrusted to me. Please forgive my previous incoherent ramblings..."

Kang De waved his hand. "No, I didn't mean to blame you, and you don't need to be alarmed. What I wanted to say was that your thoughts and ideas just now were actually quite good. After this matter is over, I need you to write a summary report, including all your thoughts and reflections. How about that?"

"Yes!"

Kang De smiled and said, "Good, keep up the good work. I promise you, if this summary report is substantial, as a reward, I might impart some knowledge to you."

Han Zezheng a moment, then showed a look of surprise, but then hesitated.

Kang De observed this and asked, "What?"

"No..."

Han Zezheng startled and immediately said, "Your Highness's kindness is as deep as the sea. This old man is willing to do everything in his power for Your Highness, even going through fire and water!"

"There's no need to be so polite. I know about your grievances and hardships."

Kang De laughed and said, "You've acted very well these past few days. I know you've been trying to borrow grain from the city's nobles, you've been overwhelmed and ridiculed. You've been drawing attention to yourself, making people believe that my situation is very passive, while also doing your best to ensure the city's food supply and prevent anyone from starving to death. All of this has been very hard work."

"Thank you for your understanding, Your Highness."

"Have you distributed the grain?"

"Yes, Your Highness said it's better to sell than to give. I have already worked with several commanders and contacted the local church to send people to distribute grain in the shantytown and dock areas at a lower price. According to Lord Horus's list and judgment, priority will be given to poor families with many members."

Kang De nodded, then asked, "Is someone insulting me?"

"This..."

Seeing his expression, Kang De knew roughly what was going on. He shook his head and said, "There's no need to make things difficult for them. Everything is under control. I will refuse, but... we need to think of a way..."

Your Highness?

"Ah, it's nothing." The Earthling shook his head. "The people should be my friends, brothers and sisters, comrades-in-arms, and my own people. At the very least, they shouldn't be my enemies. They should at least trust me. And that will be my next phase of work. I need to think of a way. The people should be the vast ocean that sustains me..."

Han Zezheng stared wide-eyed; he couldn't understand this sophisticated topic.

He's only on the second floor now, barely touching the edge of the third.

Kang De, however, was already at the fifth level.

Kang De then asked him about the situation in various places.

Han Zezheng.

Grain prices are soaring across the country. The wealthy are profiting immensely from this, but whether they make money or lose money, it is the ordinary people who suffer the most, who are already struggling to get enough to eat.

Kang De listened to the detailed report and nodded in approval.

Han Zezheng's report was not far off from the real-time intelligence provided by Santos.

Yes, ever since the dragons entered the scene, it's as if they've opened a full map. They have a clear view of all the fluctuations in the grain market and the flow of funds in the Distant Harbor. Each major city in the Azure Waves Province has a giant dragon stationed there, gathering local intelligence and transmitting it through Dragon Ballad. This information is then compiled and sent to Santos, who is recognized by the dragons as a business genius. Santos then makes judgments and adjusts his investment decisions.

Upon hearing this, Kang De finally understood the significance of the Dragon Emperor's painstaking efforts in creating the Dragon Ballad Secret Technique—it wasn't just for the dragons to use for flirting.

Damn it, information really is the most valuable thing.

When Kang De compared Santos's intelligence with Han Zezheng's report, he realized that neither side had lied or concealed anything, and that both were doing their best—which greatly pleased him.

After offering a few words of encouragement, I saw him off.

Kang De leaned back in his swivel chair and exhaled slowly.

The vast ocean of the people... what should we do with it...?

Just then, Lily jumped over. "What knowledge are you going to give him?"

As a dragon, she seemed to smell the sweet scent of money.

"Want to know?" Kang De, preoccupied with his thoughts, glanced at her, snapped his fingers, and meowed.

Miss Dragon stood beside the table, leaning slightly forward, looking down at the viewer. Her long hair cascaded down, and the exaggerated curves of her chest were extremely imposing at this angle and distance.

She stared intently at Kang De and said crisply, "Meow."

"..."

Kang De was stunned for a moment. "Damn, we lost out!"

"Too late!" The Dragon Girl's face flushed slightly, then she shouted, "Tell me quickly!"

Kang De said sullenly, "It's just a method of exploiting foolish nobles and collecting 'intelligence tax'..."

How do you know all this?

Why can't I understand?

"Count me in if you make money!"

"On what grounds?"

"I own shares!"

"No, you don't. This is a brand new financial company, and it has nothing to do with the industrial company that was promised to you."

"I want this one too! I'll let you ride it for another five years!"

The dragon's money radar made her instinctively realize that this was an extremely lucrative business.

And it's quick money.

They used all sorts of tactics, from pleading and cajoling to threats.

Kang De was thoroughly annoyed by their persistent questioning.

Why are you so excited?

"What do you know? I'm a dragon! It would be a disgrace for a dragon not to grab some money when it's right in front of me!"

"..."

"How about this method? If I can get you 50% off this way, I'll give you a discount!"

"Hello!"

"Just tell me if you'll agree or not! If you don't, I'll keep pestering you, coaxing you, begging you, and flirting with you every day until you're completely infatuated and I might even brainwash you... Anyway..."

"--Huh?"

Kang De suddenly exclaimed in surprise, turning to look at Lily with eyes full of delight and realization.

The Dragon Girl was startled and even instinctively took two steps back. "W-what are you doing?"

"Okay, I promise you!"

Kang De's face lit up with excitement. "Alright, I have to go out for a bit. You stay here. If you need anything, just press the signal generator—see you later!"

A black light flashed, a spatial portal opened, and Kang De vanished from the spot.

Lily was stunned for a while before muttering, "What? This is so strange..."

The night of the eighth day gradually passed.

There is only one day left until the tenth day of the decisive battle.

In the White Mist World, Horus's voice was tinged with shock and rage.

"Father! I refuse!" he exclaimed angrily, "This is absolutely impossible!"

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PS1: Update... The plot is almost finished, time to prepare the telephone poles.