Chapter 138: The Capital Newspaper Office

Gou Ye’s idea was not only bold but far ahead of its time; no one had ever thought of or attempted such a thing. While this was how Xuanyuan Changfeng perceived it, Gou Ye’s own intentions were simple. He wanted to establish a specialized news agency where people could write articles and earn money, while simultaneously allowing the common folk to stay informed about local events and gain a better understanding of the mysterious inner workings of the imperial court—much like a modern news broadcast.

He had not yet considered any long-term ramifications. The reason he believed this would be helpful in the future was based solely on the assumption that the imperial court would eventually get involved, which would indirectly link him to the authorities. He and Xuanyuan Changfeng could certainly not run it themselves; they were preparing for the imperial examinations, and once they secured official positions, they would be prohibited from engaging in commerce. As for who should take on the task, Gou Ye immediately thought of Gu Shen.

Gu Shen came from a family of scholars and had a certain appreciation for literature. Moreover, he was a refined gentleman who could easily relate to young aristocrats. Most importantly, if the enterprise ever managed to connect with the imperial court, Gu Shen would indirectly establish a relationship with them as well. In time, with Gou Ye’s help in expanding the business, Gu Shen would surely rise to prominence within the court. Once the Emperor recognized his talent, he might be able to shed the constraints of his family’s noble status and perhaps even help his brothers move beyond their life as commoners.

When Gou Ye proposed this to Gu Shen, Gu Shen shook his head repeatedly in refusal. "No, I can't do that. You can send me to the battlefield to kill enemies, but I’m no good at wielding a brush. If my fourth brother can't do it, I’ll bring him over for you, and he can handle it."

Gou Ye dismissed this objection immediately. "Brother Gu Shen, I have thought it over carefully, and you are the most suitable candidate—perhaps even more so than Brother Changfeng. Why? Because unlike literary scholars, you won't treat every article as a piece of poetry to be critiqued. You lack the leisure and the inclination to scrutinize every word. If you find something to be true, legal, and morally sound, you will dare to publish it. That is how more truths will be spread through your hands. Furthermore, you understand the court better than I do. Having grown up in the shadow of a Duke, you know what can be said and what cannot. Though you never participate in politics, you are well-versed in its ways, which is a strength far greater than mine or Brother Changfeng’s."

"But the most important point is that this is the fastest way for the court to notice you. If I can achieve something in the government later on, it will be twice as effective when I and Brother Changfeng recommend you."

"Of course, that is the primary goal. I know you aren't a natural for this, so I will select someone else to take over the stall in the future. You don't need to carry too much pressure; you won't have to do this forever."

Gu Shen’s face darkened, unsure if Gou Ye was praising him or insulting him. But since it was a shortcut to returning to a career in officialdom, he figured it was worth a try. If he couldn't handle it, they could always replace him. Thus, Gu Shen gladly agreed to Gou Ye’s proposal.

At this point, Xuanyuan Changfeng interjected, "It is a fine idea, but the execution will be difficult. First, you must consider whether the merchant clans will agree. Second, you must account for the scholars; they are capable of saying anything, and some of their words might even be considered treasonous. You must decide clearly what can be published and what cannot, and why. Do not let people think you are afraid of the court's censorship yet lack the courage to help scholars speak the truth, or you will fail to meet expectations."

"Also, as a platform for the merchant clans, which side will you be promoting? The aristocrats? The royal family? Or the imperial house? You must be certain of this. A single misstep could cost you your head."

"Furthermore, if you claim to report on everything, how will you discern truth from falsehood? What about rumors? What about those who slander others or intentionally spread lies? You will need to filter these categories of 'news' carefully."

"While the idea is excellent, the difficulty of operating it is no less than founding a merchant clan. I hope you will consider this carefully, and if you have, ensure you have thought through all the issues I have raised."

Xuanyuan Changfeng’s points were crucial. Some were matters Gou Ye had already considered, while others he had not. Every beginning is hard, but this was a long and arduous journey. Gou Ye was determined to see it through, and perhaps one day, even realize the other proposals he had suggested to the merchant clans.

Gou Ye nodded and said, "Brother Changfeng, you are right. I have learned much. I know this will be difficult and complex, which is why I brought you both here—to hear your perspectives and to see if you are willing to embark on this challenging path with me."

"Everything is difficult at the start, but that is no reason to abandon it. Opening the seas was difficult, and taming the Western Regions was difficult, yet they were accomplished by those with the will to do so. Founding a merchant clan is difficult, yet they are established one after another. I do not fear the difficulty or the problems; I only fear lacking like-minded companions. I will handle the merchant clans; I only need a clear answer from you: are we doing this or not?"

After Gou Ye finished speaking, Xuanyuan Changfeng asked, "Does this shop have a name?"

"Yes! The Capital Gazette. Are we doing it, or not?"

"We are! Since you have put it this way, what do I have to worry about?" Xuanyuan Changfeng replied heartily.

With that, Gou Ye stretched out his hand and placed it on the table. Gu Shen placed his hand on top of Gou Ye’s. Seeing this, Xuanyuan Changfeng did the same, placing his hand over Gu Shen’s. The three looked at each other, and suddenly, they burst into laughter.