The eighth year of the emperor's reign: Sun-drying salt at Guanjiangkou (bonus update 3/4)

"Reporting to Your Majesty, I led the troops into the forests and countryside. To date, we have slain more than ten thousand tigers, wild boars, deer, and other beasts."

As Zi Shou listened to Lei Kai's report, he suddenly felt rather bewildered. Weren't the wilds a little too rich in resources?

Why were there elephants and rhinoceroses, too?

He had only himself to blame for being so enamored of his tender embraces that he rarely left the palace and had seen little of the world. That did fit the profile of a foolish ruler rather well.

Great Shang was currently in a relatively warm period, with a mild, humid climate. Elephants and rhinoceroses, which would otherwise only be found in the far south, could be found even around Chaoge. Wild water buffalo, sacred water buffalo, black bears, and numerous species of deer were the main animals there, all excellent sources of meat.

Besides, this was the world of Investiture of the Gods. Ordinary people aside, commanders like Lei Kai possessed considerable martial skill. Wrestling a tiger bare-handed was hardly difficult.

The commoners really had gotten to eat minced meat.

Fortunately, they weren't eating much. Hunting cost money, too; the meat wasn't being handed out for free.

After a round of flattery, Lei Kai began requesting recognition for his soldiers' achievements. As a commander who had defected, he knew very well that he ought not claim too much credit. He acted cautiously, preferring to distribute all the major honors among his subordinates.

At first glance, Zi Shou spotted the handsome youth standing at the front. He was as good-looking as Li Bing, only a tiny bit inferior to Zi Shou himself.

Thinking of Li Bing, Zi Shou decided to arrange some work for him. That man was a real talent.

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