Chapter 243 The Emperor's Compromise
Chapter 243 The Emperor's Compromise
After dealing with the ministers who colluded with the dark forces, Star City seemed to have ushered in peace, but in fact, undercurrents were surging.
Although Lin Feng and the others had been cleared of their grievances, they did not let down their guard. They knew that the foundations of Xingchen City had been shaken by this turmoil, and reconstruction and rectification were imminent.
One day, Lin Feng was patrolling the city and saw that although the people had some smiles on their faces, their eyes still showed uncertainty and worry about the future.
Back at the palace, Lin Feng advised the Emperor, "Emperor, although the treacherous villains have been eradicated, the city still needs to be rebuilt. We still need to make long-term plans."
The Emperor sat on the throne, looking exhausted. "Lin Feng, you are absolutely right, but the national treasury is empty now, and reconstruction is extremely difficult."
Wang Meng couldn't help but say, "Emperor, those treacherous people have plundered so much of the people's wealth, can't they use it for their own benefit?"
The Emperor frowned, "Most of that wealth has disappeared and is difficult to recover."
Zhao Xue thought for a moment and said, "Emperor, perhaps we can ask for help from the surrounding cities."
The Emperor shook his head: "The surrounding cities have always had grievances with us, so they may not lend a helping hand."
Li San said, "Then can we reduce taxes so that the people can rest and recuperate and slowly recover their strength?"
The Emperor remained silent, seemingly weighing the pros and cons.
At this moment, a minister stood up and said, "Your Majesty, this is absolutely impossible. Reducing taxes will affect the national treasury, and military pay and city defense construction will be affected."
Lin Feng glared at the minister: "Are you really going to ignore the lives of the people?"
The minister sneered, "Lin Feng, don't exaggerate. The people will naturally understand how to contribute to Xingchen City."
The two sides were deadlocked and the atmosphere in the palace became extremely tense.
Ling'er said timidly, "Emperor, the people have suffered for too long. If you don't show benevolence, I'm afraid trouble will arise."
The Emperor rubbed his temples, looking very embarrassed.
After several days of heated debate, the emperor finally compromised.
"Forget it, let's do as Li San said and reduce taxes." said the emperor.
When the news came out, the people cheered.
However, new problems emerged one after another.
The reduction of taxes led to financial strain, and the renewal of military equipment and the reinforcement of city defenses were in trouble.
Lin Feng and others decided to personally lead the soldiers to reclaim wasteland and plant crops to increase food reserves.
In the fields, Lin Feng sweated profusely, encouraging his soldiers while working: "Everyone, work harder, for the future of Star City!"
Wang Meng responded loudly: "That's right, let's do it ourselves and have enough food and clothing!"
Zhao Xue also didn't care about her image and worked with everyone.
Li San used magic to speed up the growth of crops.
Ling'er brought tea and food to everyone and said with concern: "Don't get too tired."
After a period of hard work, I finally reaped the rewards.
But at the same time, some surrounding forces saw the weakness of Star City and began to make moves.
One day, urgent news came from the border that enemy troops were invading.
"Damn it! These guys are taking advantage of the situation!" Wang Meng said angrily.
Lin Feng's expression was solemn: "Gather the soldiers immediately and prepare to meet the enemy!"
On the city wall, Lin Feng looked at the enemy troops approaching from a distance and secretly vowed in his heart: "No matter what, we must protect Xingchen City!"
The emperor also visited the city wall in person to boost the morale of the soldiers.
"Soldiers, the honor of Star City depends on you!" shouted the Emperor.
A fierce battle is about to begin...
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