Section 3: Wealth that Dominates the World

Regardless of the presence of Li Yuanba and Yuwen Chengdu, Xiao Buyi is acutely aware that the Sui Dynasty is a short-lived dynasty, and the Li Tang will soon take its place

A hint of surprise flashed across everyone's faces as they exchanged glances, clearly not expecting Xiao Buyi to seize the opportunity over the Turkic soldiers this time

He finally understood why those who practice divination and fortune-telling remain in dire straits, for even if they truly know their fate, they can only resign themselves to it. The idea of attempting to change one's destiny seems like a rather absurd notion.

Xiao Buyi found it somewhat amusing to hear about these distant relatives who were completely unrelated, yet Lai Sansha was inexplicably elated about it

I just want to ask, if we are not going to rob, what business are we planning to engage in?" Xiao Buyi asked.

Lai San noticed that Xiao Dapeng seemed somewhat hesitant, and could not help but feel anxious. "Zhaizhu, after so many years, Wang Rengong no longer possesses the courage of his youth; he is old and feeble. Moreover, he has never dealt with us and does not remember who we are. Besides, who would be unwilling to part with wealth?"

"Bu Yi, how was the harvest?" A man with a red face sitting nearby called out loudly when he saw Xiao Bu Yi walk in

He does not lament the many people killed or the few women who were taken, but rather he mourns the death of two horses

Xue Burin and Xiao Dapeng exchanged a glance, filled with joy, and their inquiring eyes turned towards the two brothers, Jiao Zuo and Shi Gandan, asking, "What are your thoughts, brothers?"

I?'' Xiao Buyi shook his head, ``In fact, you can decide these matters as you wish. I will comply with your decisions.''

A person stood up from the adjacent seat, with slanted eyes and antelope-like whiskers, looking just like a living antelope. Xiao Buyi knew that Lai San was a slippery character, half a bandit, and would be sent to handle any transactions.

Of course, initially, out of curiosity, he attempted to inquire about the heroes of the Sui and Tang dynasties, Li Yuanba and Yuwen Chengdu. In his knowledge system, these two were great heroes of the Sui and Tang dynasties, ranking as the top two among the eighteen heroes. One wielded a heavy hammer weighing several hundred pounds, while the other held a golden-winged spear, yet he was the son of Yuwen Huaji from the Yuwen clan.

Xiao Buyi felt a stir in his heart, realizing that what Xue Burin said held great potential. Upon arriving here, he felt the insignificance of human effort, akin to mere grass and weeds. Although he could foresee the future, he was powerless to change it.

Xiao Buyi then understood the intentions of the heads of the family. The older ones sought stability; in fact, their minds were already made up. They were merely concerned that the younger brothers, being impetuous, might be unwilling to engage in business. Their purpose in bringing him here was simply to persuade the others.

Xue Burin was astonished, not expecting Xiao Buyi to be so clever. Shi Gandan, however, exclaimed loudly: "If not a bandit, should one become a top scholar?"

While Lai San was still contemplating how to cling to Governor Wang, Xiao Buyi had already thought of seeking out Li Yuan. While they were still preoccupied with merely making a living, he was already considering how to secure a golden opportunity for himself.

www.hetushu.com.com However, it is unclear whether they have not gained fame or have not been born; in any case, the people here know nothing. Before others have any suspicion, he has already cautiously steered the conversation away from this topic

Jiaozuo shook his head vigorously, "The leader of the stronghold, a man’s ambition lies in the four corners of the world. Now, in this chaotic era, it is also the time for men to achieve great deeds. Look at Wang Bo in Shandong, Du Fuwei in Jianghuai, and Zhai Rang in Wagang; who among them does not raise their arms and gather followers? It is already a source of ridicule for us to hide here. If we were to rise up at this moment, we might not be any less than them. What is the point of engaging in horse trading? What face would we have to show if that were to be known?"

"Is there even a need to ask?" Another young man laughed heartily, "In these past few months, the commoners have taken action and have never missed their mark."

His understanding of all the superficial knowledge of this era comes from the performance of storytelling, yet he is not so foolish as to be beyond redemption. What he does understand is that if he treats the performance scripts as history, he would not even know how he would meet his end

He feels that the Taoist priest he invited some time ago was very effective, and Xiao Buyi now appears to be much more normal, a stark contrast to the nonsensical ramblings he exhibited during his serious illness

Xiao Buyi listened quietly, merely nodding.

In fact, he has always been puzzled by a question: what can he accomplish in this era?

In truth, we all understand the principle that a clay pot cannot be separated from the well, and a broken general is bound to perish on the battlefield. Even if you consider www.hetushu.com to be formidable, there will inevitably be unforeseen circumstances. The village leader is thinking of the greater good for everyone

They made every effort to collect the items they needed; bows and arrows, warhorses, and equipment would certainly not be wasted

"We killed fifteen Turkic soldiers, rescued a woman, and captured fourteen horses, along with some bows and arrows," Xiao Buyi stated succinctly, with a hint of regret.

"The cousin of the governor of Mayi, Wang Rengong, is my fellow townsman," Lai San straightened his back, as if he too held an official position. "If I can establish a connection with him, I believe our stronghold will no longer have to worry about food and drink in the future"

This is certainly vision, but his vision is rooted in historical development

However, he is unable to control this; after all, if the immortal horse does not survive, it is they who may perish.

Xiao Dapeng said with a smile: "If someone really becomes the top scholar, that would be a good thing. However, I think there probably isn't anyone here with that capability. Let's have Lai Sancai come back from Mayi and share the situation."

In fact, it is like this, "Xue Burin has clearly thought through his words, 'As commoners, we also once received imperial rations; committing theft was truly a last resort.'"

Xiao Dapeng nodded, "It is indeed reasonable to say so..."

Tao Zhugong is Fan Li, who, after employing the beauty strategy to destroy Wu and conquer Yue, chose to withdraw bravely from the turbulent world. He and Xi Shi lived incognito, drifting on the five lakes. He was capable in governance and, after engaging in commerce, became immensely wealthy.

Wang Rengong also knew that this was the Keeper of the Taihe - Tu - Shu of Mayi County. He heard from Xiao Dapeng that this person was once brave and skilled in battle, but as he grew older, he began to be fond of wealth and lust.

Everyone, please take a seat. "Xiao Dapeng waved his hand and turned to Xue Burin, "Burin, please share your thoughts.

After all, even if he does not become a bandit to rob, he will not starve to death hunting here. Lai San appears to be full of ambition, yet Xiao Buyi feels that his aspirations are rather modest.

Xiao Dapeng's words were quite persuasive and reasonable. The Tao Zhugong he mentioned is someone Xiao Buyi is very familiar with, but that person does not know him. If he wishes to meet Tao Zhugong, he probably needs to die once more.

The man with the red face is called Jiaozuo, and the one with the green face is named Shigandang. They are both brothers who have followed Xiao Dapeng through life and death.

Father, you speak. Calling him father comes from the heart for Xiao Buyi. Ever since he recovered from his serious illness, Xiao Dapeng has invited Taoists and performed rituals. Although he has not found the right method, Xiao Buyi knows that this father has absolutely no complaints for the sake of his son

"Cloth robe, what is your opinion?" Xiao Dapeng asked with some anticipation

Xue Burin replied: "Commoner, in fact, this is merely an idea. You hold influence in the stronghold; if you were to suddenly abandon the act of robbery, I fear they might have objections."

Ancient sages have said, "The scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants are the four classes of people, the foundation of the nation." Xiao Dapeng remarked earnestly, "In the past, Tao Zhu Gong amassed great wealth, capable of governing the country and waging war. After achieving success, he retired, yet he was also able to manage his family and safeguard his integrity. The historian Sima Qian praised him, stating that loyalty to the country and the pursuit of knowledge are essential for self-preservation, while commerce leads to prosperity and fame in the world. I ask, who among such individuals can be underestimated?"

"Horse trading." Xue Burin's face showed joy, "I have discussed with the village chief; the world is about to fall into chaos, with smoke rising everywhere. If we have a source and a destination, we will surely be free from worries about food and clothing"

"Cloth-clad, in fact, I came to discuss a matter with you." Xiao Dapeng, with a stubbly beard and a face marked by layers of flesh, appeared exceptionally fierce. Although his appearance was intimidating, his speech was calm, and his gaze towards his son was quite gentle

Having been here for a few months, although he never had the foolish desire to become an emperor, he also never thought he would worry about food and drink.

Shi Gandan hesitated and said, "I have no objections"

Others are unaware of Xiao Buyi's thoughts. Shi Gandang shook his head repeatedly, "Zhai Master, I am only afraid that Wang Rengong will not be easy to deal with. He is an official, and we are thieves. If he does not come to us, how can we possibly go to him?"

Xiao Buyi said directly: "Do you no longer wish to be bandits?"

However, even if one cannot change the overall situation, making small adjustments still holds great potential. Although history does not record the figure of Xiao Buyi, it does not state that he was not a successful businessman. In today's chaotic times, in a few years, there will be even greater upheaval. In this context, horse trading seems to be a lucrative business. With this thought, Xiao Buyi became interested and said, "No problem, if there is a way, I will persuade them."

Becoming a bandit is merely a temporary measure; he believes that one should aspire to higher pursuits in life