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The decision made within the Knife Hall quickly swept through the entire Song Family Mountain City.

When Song Que, acting as the clan leader, clearly issued the core decisions regarding joining the Heavenly Alliance, forming a military alliance, and personnel appointments, the entire mountain city seemed to be injected with new vitality, and an atmosphere mixed with shock, excitement, and solemnity permeated the air.

Without the slightest delay, upon receiving the order, Song Lu immediately selected several trusted experts and skilled document handlers, and personally carried a copy of the alliance document bearing Song Que's seal and the seal of Yi Huawei, the leader of the Heavenly Dao Alliance, as well as a letter written by Song Que to Lei Shimeng (the content of which was nothing more than expressing the importance attached to the alliance, the trust in Lei Shimeng, and the intention of the Song Clan to fully cooperate), and boarded a Song Clan fast ship that had been prepared in advance and was as swift as an arrow.

"Raise the sails! Full speed ahead! Destination: Baling!"

Song Lu stood at the bow, his gaze as sharp as a hawk's, his voice resolute. The fast boat, like an arrow released from a bow, cleaved through the murky river, sailing upstream towards Baling. He had to deliver this alliance, capable of changing the course of history, to Lei Shimeng as quickly as possible, and coordinate the subsequent military integration.

Meanwhile, Song Zhi and Song Shidao quickly completed the handover. Song Zhi temporarily handed over the daily administration of the mountain city to reliable clan elders, and he himself changed into a set of practical and easy-to-move clothing, with a jade pendant symbolizing his status as a strategist hanging from his waist. Song Shidao, on the other hand, shed his gentle and refined outer robes as a young master of a noble family, and put on the fine armor specially made by the Song clan. Although he had not experienced the baptism of war, a hint of determination had appeared between his brows.

The two, accompanied by dozens of carefully selected core advisors and guards of the Song clan, boarded another sturdy riverboat and followed closely behind Song Lu, their destination being Changsha.

After finishing his business, Song Que changed into a relatively relaxed light blue casual outfit, accompanied by a young girl. The girl was about sixteen or seventeen years old, dressed in a light yellow fitted outfit that accentuated her youthful and energetic figure. Her long, black hair was simply tied up with a silver hairpin, revealing her smooth forehead and a pair of exceptionally bright and lively eyes. She curiously observed Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing, her eyes clear and bright, possessing the unique radiance of a noble lady, yet without much arrogance.

"Sir, Miss Wanjing,"

Song Que introduced, "This is my daughter, Yu Zhi."

Upon hearing this, Song Yuzhi stepped forward gracefully, clasped her hands in greeting, and said in a clear, melodious voice, "Yuzhi greets Mr. Yi and Sister Wanjing!"

His gaze lingered on Yi Huawei for a moment. Was this the mysterious powerhouse who had won over even his father, who had personally acknowledged his "honorable defeat"?
From childhood, her father had always been an invincible symbol in her heart, the sky of Lingnan, and the ultimate master of the sword! But now, her father had openly admitted defeat and was so impressed with this Mr. Yi? This instantly heightened her curiosity about Yi Huawei to its peak.

But he looks...so young, and so ordinary, doesn't he? Except for those eyes, so deep they seem to suck your soul in. She thought to herself, but maintained a polite smile on her face.

Shan Wanjing also took a liking to this lively girl who was about the same age as her, and smiled in return, saying, "Hello, Sister Yuzhi."

Yi Huawei's gentle gaze fell on Song Yuzhi, and he nodded slightly: "Miss Song, there's no need for such formalities." His voice was calm and unwavering, yet it made Song Yuzhi's heart skip a beat, as if she were being gently caressed by the warm spring sun.

A rare, gentle smile appeared on Song Que's face as he addressed Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing:

"This mountain town is rather rustic and lacks scenic beauty, but the landscapes of Lingnan do have their own charm. I, Song, will do my best to be a good host and accompany you and your daughter for three days to see what the local customs and people of Lingnan are like."

His actions were quite deliberate. First, he wanted to express his closeness and respect to Yi Huawei, a powerful figure who impressed him greatly. Second, he wanted his daughter, Song Yuzhi, to get to know Shan Wanjing, the young master of the Dongming Sect, who was the same age as him, and to build a friendship so as to pave the way for possible future cooperation. Third, he also wanted to take this opportunity to observe Yi Huawei's character and conduct up close, so that he could perhaps gain some further guidance.

Shan Wanjing's eyes lit up. She was already curious about the Lingnan scenery, which was so different from that of Ryukyu and the Central Plains, and immediately looked at Yi Huawei. Yi Huawei smiled slightly and nodded, saying, "That is indeed my wish, I dare not ask. I will trouble the clan leader and Miss Song."

So, over the next three days, the majestic mountains and forests, rushing rivers, and unique folk customs of Lingnan slowly unfolded before Yi Huawei and his companions.

Song Que clearly knew every plant and tree in Lingnan like the back of his hand. He led the group, sometimes climbing steep peaks shrouded in clouds and mist, overlooking the Pearl River tributaries that surged like giant dragons; sometimes venturing deep into the humid and lush rainforest, identifying various exotic flowers, plants and trees, and even picking wild fruits to taste; and sometimes walking into the Liao people's villages nestled against the mountains and by the water, watching their sacrificial dances full of primitive vitality, and tasting the unique flavors of bamboo rice and spicy and sour fish sashimi.

Song Yuzhi, with her lively and carefree personality, was like a mountain sprite. She felt a strong sense of curiosity and closeness towards Shan Wanjing, a girl of the same age from overseas. The two girls quickly became acquainted. Song Yuzhi chattered excitedly to Shan Wanjing about the various interesting stories and legends of Lingnan, while Shan Wanjing shared her experiences and observations of the overseas islands. Their silvery laughter often echoed through the mountains and forests, adding much color to their journey.

Yi Huawei remained composed and unhurried throughout. He spoke little, quietly observing the landscape, resources, transportation, and the diverse lives of the people he encountered in Lingnan. Yet, his deep eyes seemed to see through everything.

When Yi Huwei arrived at a large market town nestled against the mountains and overlooking the river, he stopped in his tracks, looking at the mountains of timber, medicinal herbs, animal hides, spices, as well as cloth, ironware, and porcelain transported from the inland, and listening to the merchants haggling over prices in a mix of Mandarin and local dialects.

“Lingnan is rich in products, especially timber, spices, medicinal herbs, pearls, tortoiseshell, ivory, and rhinoceros horn, all of which are sought-after items in the Central Plains and even overseas.”

Yi Huawei looked at the bustling dock and spoke slowly, his voice not loud, but clearly reaching Song Que's ears.

Song Que nodded: "That is indeed the case. However, Lingnan is hot and humid, rife with miasma, and the roads are rugged, making transportation difficult. Moreover, it is far from the heart of the Central Plains, and the transshipment of large quantities of goods is costly, with profits often being squeezed out by checkpoints along the way and large merchants from the Central Plains. Although there is the advantage of waterways, large ships cannot penetrate deep into the tributaries, and small ships have limited capacity and are inefficient."

This was a long-standing problem that had plagued the Song dynasty for many years, and it was also the key factor limiting the accumulation of wealth in Lingnan.

"What the lord said is just a facade."

Yi Huawei's gaze swept over the piles of goods, his tone calm yet carrying an air of authority: "The predicament of Lingnan lies not in its products, but in the word 'circulation'."

"Circulation?"

Song Que's eyes narrowed, and Song Yuzhi and Shan Wanjing also pricked up their ears curiously.

"Firstly, the distribution channels are limited."

Yi Huwei pointed to the dock: "Goods leaving Lingnan mainly rely on these large riverside ports and are transported by boat. However, as the lord said, large boats have difficulty navigating tributaries, and small boats are inefficient. Why not set up many small transshipment and distribution points at the confluence of various tributaries? Light and fast boats can shuttle through the tributaries, collect mountain goods at the distribution points, and then transfer them to larger boats. This can greatly shorten the transportation distance for mountain people, improve efficiency, and reduce costs."

A glint of light flashed in Song Que's eyes. This idea was simple yet effective!

Secondly, the distribution methods were primitive.

Yi Huawei picked up a few rough tin ingots and a piece of good-quality agarwood from the stall: "This kind of rough tin has limited value. If we could set up a workshop in Lingnan to refine and purify it, or to make it into artifacts, its price would more than double. This agarwood, if it is sold directly as a log without being cut and processed, would be a waste of resources. The Song Clan has abundant resources, so why don't they hire skilled craftsmen to process and increase its value locally? This would not only provide employment for displaced people, but also generate higher profits, and enhance the reputation of Lingnan products in the Central Plains and even overseas."

Song Yuzhi couldn't help but interject, "That's right! Dad! Our family's agarwood is sold in whole pieces, which is such a loss! I heard that those nobles in Luoyang can sell even a tiny bit of the best agarwood shavings for an astronomical price!" She was clearly quite interested in business.

Song Que nodded slightly, seemingly lost in thought. In the past, he had focused on military affairs and martial arts. Although he paid attention to the economy and people's livelihood, he was far less insightful in the details than Yi Huawei.

Thirdly, the circulation and settlement processes are lagging behind.

Yi Huawei's gaze fell on the transactions using copper coins or even barter: "Large-scale transactions often involve thousands or tens of thousands of strings of cash. Carrying copper coins or goods is cumbersome and dangerous. Why not emulate the 'flying money' method of the Central Plains, with the Song clan's credit guarantee, and establish 'bank counters' in major towns in Lingnan, issuing 'Lingnan notes' that can be redeemed throughout the Song clan's controlled area? Merchants only need to deposit money at their departure point, and they can withdraw cash or purchase goods at their destination with the notes. This would greatly facilitate business travel, accelerate capital turnover, and firmly grasp the financial lifeline of Lingnan in the hands of the Song clan. This is an 'economic weapon,' and its benefits are no less than those of the sword in the hands of the clan leader."

"The sword of economics!"

Song Quexin was utterly shocked! Yi Huawei's words were like a wake-up call, opening up a whole new world for him!

Revitalizing the economy is no less important than training and strengthening the military! Smooth logistics, value-added industries, and efficient finance—the combination of these three is enough to give Lingnan, this treasure land, unprecedented vitality and power! This is not merely the accumulation of wealth, but a solid foundation for dominating the world!
He looked at Yi Huawei, his eyes filled with sincere admiration and gratitude: "Your words are worth a fortune! I, Song Que, am dull-witted, only now do I understand the true path to 'national prosperity and military strength'! The Song Clan will definitely do its utmost to implement these three 'circulation' policies!"

Shan Wanjing seemed to be deep in thought. Yi Huawei's words were also a great inspiration for her to take charge of the future business operations of the Dongming Sect.

Song Yuzhi's beautiful eyes lit up as she listened, her gaze towards Yi Huawei filled with admiration. Although she was young, she was born into the Song clan and, through her upbringing, was not ignorant of economics and people's livelihood.

Yi Huawei's words were like opening a brand new door in front of her! The problems that had plagued the Song Clan for many years, the drawbacks that were taken for granted, were analyzed so clearly in his words, and the solutions he proposed were so practical and feasible, even with a grand vision that stirred people's hearts - "the sword of economics"!
Seeing the unprecedented brilliance in her father Song Que's eyes—a radiant emotion of being awakened, shaken, and captivated—Song Yuzhi felt an indescribable surge of emotion as she gazed at Yi Huawei's calm profile.

This man's martial arts skills were unfathomable, and his wisdom was as vast as the ocean! With just a few casual words, he seemed capable of changing the future of Lingnan! This was more than just his martial arts prowess; it gave her a profound sense of awe and...admiration.

Yi Huawei treated the two girls with gentleness and the tolerance of an elder. He would occasionally answer their questions in a calm tone, and even cast an approving glance at them when they were explaining a legend, which made Song Yuzhi's heart leap with joy.

However, Song Yuzhi also clearly sensed an insurmountable distance beneath that gentle demeanor. Those deep eyes seemed to hold endless years and wisdom, making her, a girl of her age, instinctively feel as small and inexperienced as a stream before the ocean. This gentle distance, in fact, only enhanced his mysterious and powerful charm.

Three days passed in a flash.

On the morning of the day of departure, at the mountain city dock, a light boat flying the flag of the Heavenly Alliance was ready.

Song Que personally saw them off, and Song Yuzhi held Shan Wanjing's hand, reluctant to part.

"I will always remember your guidance, sir. You can rest assured about the affairs of Lingnan."

Song Que clasped his hands in a respectful gesture, making a solemn promise. After three days together, he was completely convinced of Yi Huawei's wisdom and magnanimity.

"You flatter me, Master. Lingnan is the foundation of our alliance, and its future is promising." Yi Huawei smiled and returned the greeting, his gaze sweeping over this land about to be reborn, before turning to Song Yuzhi with a gentle smile:

“Miss Yuzhi is intelligent, lively, and kind-hearted; she is a gem in the rough. The future of Lingnan also needs your generation to work hard to cultivate it.”

His tone was like that of an elder expressing expectations for an outstanding junior.

"Yes, Yuzhi will remember your teachings!"

Song Yuzhi quickly replied, her pretty face slightly flushed, but a warm current and inexplicable flutter welled up in her heart because of this affirmation.

"Wanjing, we should go."

Yi Huawei said to Shan Wanjing.

"Yes, Master."

Shan Wanjing respectfully replied, and then said to Song Yuzhi, "Sister Yuzhi, until we meet again."

"Sister Wanjing, you must come to Lingnan again!"

Song Yuzhi waved his hand forcefully.

Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing boarded the light boat. The boatman untied the rope, gave it a push with a long pole, and the light boat slowly left the shore and drifted downstream.

Watching Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing board the boat, the light boat slowly left the shore and merged into the vast expanse of misty waves.

Song Yuzhi stood beside her father, waving vigorously until the figure in the green robe disappeared from sight. The complex feelings in her heart lingered—awe of the strong, awe of wisdom, curiosity about that gentle yet distant air, and a touch of wistful longing, a budding girlish affection she herself didn't fully understand. She knew that this person's figure, along with the changes he brought, was deeply imprinted in her memory, and in the memory of the entire Lingnan region.

Song Que stood on the dock, his blue robe fluttering in the river breeze, his gaze deep and profound.

The fate of Lingnan, the fate of the Song Clan, and even the fate of the entire world, will all sail into a turbulent new era with the departure of this light boat. And he, Song Que, is no longer the lone, aloof swordsman confined to Lingnan, but a vanguard wielding his sword at the forefront of the times, paving the way for the "Heavenly Way"!

As the light boat sailed away, Songjia Mountain City gradually disappeared behind the green hills and clear waters. Meanwhile, the story of "Heavenly Blade" Song Que joining the Heavenly Dao Alliance, the military alliance between Lingnan and Baling, and Yi Huawei's miraculous convincing of Song Que were sweeping across the entire world at an unprecedented speed, like a raging storm.

(End of this chapter)