I want to establish an Aristocratic Family.

Summary

In the autumn of the 1st year of Yanhe, the Archery Commandant and Yulin Guards entered Chang'an, leading to a drastic drop in rice prices as merchants were intimidated by soldiers. The once-powerful merchants faced severe consequences for hoarding, with threats of execution for deceit. As commoners seized the opportunity to buy grain, the market filled rapidly, stabilizing prices. Young scholars celebrated their influence, believing they had changed the world. However, the true power dynamics shifted as high-ranking officials and the Emperor targeted merchants, exposing their hidden wealth and forcing them to comply with state demands. The chapter concludes with the realization of the merchants' vulnerability in the face of imperial authority.

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