Seeking Fame

Yu Qian showed up the next day with dark circles under his eyes, yet full of vigor as he went to Chen Xun for money, grain, and a warrant.

Naturally, not all the disaster-relief funds and grain could be transported from the Capital City. Most would still have to be mobilized from the local area and nearby prefectures.

The Imperial Court had Ever-Normal Granaries throughout the land, but without an imperial decree, they could not be opened lightly.

Thus, Yu Qian only needed to bring silver and a small portion of grain from the Capital City, then tuck the warrant into his robes and depart.

Before leaving, he also asked Chen Xun to take better care of Xue Shao.

Chen Xun said, "...I heard that you stayed at the post station last night and slept foot-to-foot with Xue Shao. In just one night, you two have become this close?"

Yu Qian caught the sourness in his tone and hastily said, "Not as close as you and I, but he is a good official and should be protected."

Chen Xun waved him off, telling him to leave at once.

Yet Yu Qian did not go. After glancing outside, he asked, "What does His Majesty think about lifting the maritime ban?"

Chen Xun also glanced outside before lowering his voice. "His Majesty is young and still has great ambitions. A little more urging, and it can be done. But the imperial clan will be difficult to handle. Most maritime trade is now in their hands, and with the support of the meritorious nobles, they are even less willing to lift the ban."

After a moment of silence, Yu Qian said, "Maggots gnawing at the nation. The stipends and rewards the treasury gives them every year..."

Chen Xun clapped a hand over his