Xia Yuanji respectfully approached the Emperor and said, "Your Majesty, in my humble opinion, we should promptly dispatch a special envoy to the Disaster Area to thoroughly investigate the situation and implement appropriate disaster relief measures based on the findings."
Lin Zhen nodded slightly in agreement and then turned to Xia Yuanji, asking, "Xia my loyal ministers, may I ask how many Silver Taels are currently held by the Ministry of Revenue?"
After a brief hesitation, Xia Yuanji replied, "Your Majesty, the Ministry of Revenue currently holds a total of eight million taels of silver."
Upon hearing this, Lin Zhen couldn't help but ponder internally: How could there be such a small amount of funds? Is the national treasury so depleted? With this thought, his expression darkened slightly before he quickly regained his composure.
Xia Yuanji seemed to sense the Emperor's concerns and hurriedly added, "Your Majesty, please do not be angry. In recent years, while it appears that the Ministry of Revenue has been generating substantial income, expenditures have also increased significantly and are quite large!"
Lin Zhen waved his hand to indicate that Xia Yuanji need not elaborate further. He then addressed the officials present, "In that case, is there anyone among you my loyal ministers s willing to volunteer to investigate the snow disaster?"
As soon as he finished speaking, the court fell silent; all the officials bowed their heads and remained silent, with not a single person stepping forward to offer their services.
Indeed, it was mid-winter, with heavy snow falling and treacherous roads making travel difficult; the weather was bitterly cold. Under such harsh conditions, who would willingly rush to the Disaster Area?
At that moment, Lin Feng glanced around and noticed everyone was silent and unmoving. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward decisively and declared loudly, "Father Emperor, I am willing to personally go to the disaster-stricken area to investigate the situation and assist in disaster relief efforts!"
Lin Zhen looked at Lin Feng intently and said softly, "You truly are my fourth son; you possess such responsibility and courage." He then ordered Fourth Prince Lin Feng to set off immediately for the Disaster Area to carry out relief efforts for the victims.
After the morning court session concluded, Lin Feng hurriedly prepared to leave. However, before departing, he had one crucial matter to discuss with Xia Yuanji.
Approaching Xia Yuanji respectfully, Lin Feng said, "Father-in-law, I will need your strong support for the supplies required for this disaster relief effort!"
Hearing this, Xia Yuanji's expression turned serious as he let out a slow breath and replied solemnly, "My dear son-in-law, this disaster relief mission will likely be extremely challenging. But rest assured that I will find ways to ensure that supplies are continuously provided for you; do not worry."
After expressing his gratitude once more to Xia Yuanji, Lin Feng turned and left the court.
Upon returning home, Lin Feng carefully closed the gate behind him and headed straight for his study. Once inside, he gently shut the door and sat down at his desk. At that moment, Xia Qingyu arrived quietly; she stood beside Lin Feng, her beautiful eyes gazing at her husband.
Lin Feng took a deep breath and spoke softly to Xia Qingyu, "Wife, recently heavy snow has been falling in the northwest and southwest regions, accumulating to such depths that many houses have collapsed under the weight. As a result, countless people have been displaced and left homeless, which is truly a cause for concern."
He continued, "For this reason, I have petitioned the Emperor to allow me to personally go to the disaster-stricken areas to oversee relief efforts."
Upon hearing Lin Feng's words, Xia Qingyu understood the severity of the disaster and the heavy burden resting on her husband's shoulders. She knew well that he cared deeply for the welfare of the people. With a gentle response, she said, "My dear husband, I understand your concern for the victims. This relief effort is indeed a noble cause. You can rest assured and proceed with your plans; I will take care of everything at home and ensure that you have no distractions or worries."
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