Chapter 604 - 598_1
The incessant rain turned the crops in the fields into a waterlogged mess, but Lin Yue’s family was lucky that most of their land, except for a few acres near the river with lower elevation, remained largely unaffected, as most of their land consisted of reclaimed wasteland and barren hills.
Originally, they had thought that wasteland and barren hills were exempt from taxes, hoping that within ten years, someone in the family would surely attain scholarly honor, thereby exempting them from taxation. What’s more, the wasteland and barren hills claimed large areas suitable for cultivation of crops such as sorghum and sweet potatoes. Additionally, their plots were situated halfway up the hill, making them conveniently closer to their home.
Thus, it’s hard to predict one’s fortune, for now under these conditions, what everyone usually considered infertile and challenging lands held a tactical advantage due to their elevation. Plus, after two years of cultivation, these barren lands had become fertile and were very suitable for planting crops. Also, thanks to the teachings and experience shared by Lin Yue, the trenches dug on their property were comparatively deep, ensuring that even if the rain got heavier, it wouldn’t pose a problem for the time being, as the crops wouldn’t drown from being soaked in water. However, if the rain continued, the crops would still not flourish.
The rain had persisted for so long that there was no farm work to be done, and most of the villagers were wearing a gloomy expression, hoping for the rain to stop soon. But the heavens still hadn’t heard their prayers. The area around Lin Yue’s home was relatively better off, but some downstream villages closer to the water had already been flooded, not to mention some cities in the Jiangnan region.
"Your Majesty, you haven’t had proper rest for several days now, and it is already the third watch of the night. You should rest early, or I fear your health may suffer," urged Huangfu Jing, who had been frantic these past few days, staying awake through the night discussing solutions with the ministers, without getting a good sleep for several days. The servants by his side didn’t dare to advise him much and had no choice but to report to the Empress Dowager, who came in person to persuade him.
"The flooding in Jiangnan has caused so many commoners to suffer and become displaced, and still, there are those who dare to embezzle the relief funds from the Ministry of Household, showing no consideration for the life and death of the people. This has led to dire conditions in Jiangnan, where the people are desperate and rebellious. I wish I could chop down these treacherous ministers with one blow. And yet, those old scholars have the audacity to speak up for them and ask me to be lenient. It is utterly absurd!" Huangfu Jing showed no pleasure when speaking to the Queen. Although his position as Emperor had stabilized, he still faced many constraints in the Court. The Queen was certain to have come from one of the Aristocratic Families, and it was improbable for her to please Huangfu Jing. He gave her some favor, considering that over the years, she had been well-mannered, diligent, and helpful in managing the affairs of the harem.
"These scoundrels are trying to anger me to death!" As Huangfu Jing spoke, he swiped the memorials off the table, scattering them across the floor.