Upon hearing the words "Emperor of a Thousand Ages," Xiao Yu's eyes immediately gleamed with intense light.
Xiao Yu did not inherit the throne in the proper order, thus his legitimacy was questionable.
That is why Xiao Yu devoted himself to governing the country well.
He destroyed the Great Chu, conquered the barbarians, established the imperial examination system, valued aristocratic families, and supported those from humble backgrounds.
All these measures were taken so that future historical records would say: "Though not of the rightful place, he was a wise ruler."
However, at this moment, Mu Zian gave him an even grander goal.
He did not stop at being a wise ruler, but became an emperor for all ages.
Which emperor could refuse these four words?
Seeing Xiao Yu's slightly dazed expression, Mu Zi'an knew that there was something going on with the newspaper matter.
At this moment, Xiao Yu's heart was also burning with passion, but he was also afraid of the potential influence that the newspaper might have.
Xiao Xiuning, who was standing to the side, immediately saw through her father’s worries and stepped forward to ask.
“The Zhenguo Gong newspaper can influence public opinion. What if it falls into the hands of those with ulterior motives?”
Mu Zian smiled upon hearing this, having already prepared his words.
"Your Majesty, newspapers are essential to the people's livelihood. If we want to convey messages to all people, the price cannot be too high. Therefore, I will set the price at three coins per newspaper for the time being."
These words immediately shocked Xiao Yu.
Although paper is already a common commodity in Dali, its price is still not low.
Xiao Xiuning immediately asked.
"If a copy only costs three coins, then doesn't that mean the imperial court has to pay for the newspaper's operation?"
Mu Zian also spoke up in response.
"Indeed! Relying solely on publishing newspapers would naturally be a losing proposition, but if we place advertisements in the newspapers, we can break even."
"advertise?"
Xiao Yu felt that his mind couldn't keep up with Mu Zi'an's speaking speed.
"Advertising, in essence, means to spread information widely."
"For example, if a restaurant were to open in the capital today and wanted to spread its fame throughout the country, it could spend money to place an advertisement in this newspaper and pay a certain fee for the advertisement."
"Every citizen who buys a newspaper can read this advertisement, which can both help promote the restaurant and make money for the newspaper, killing two birds with one stone."
"The advertising revenue can then be reinvested in the newspaper's operations, and as the newspaper's reach expands, the costs will be spread out more evenly."
"With such a virtuous cycle, the newspaper can be self-sufficient and no longer need the government's support."
"But ask the world, who would be willing to do this business that loses money but gains publicity?"
The newspaper office in Dali today is just like the subway in later generations.
No one except the state can privately undertake such an event.
Because the country can wait for the subway to gradually recoup its costs, which could take ten, twenty, or thirty years.
However, ordinary people simply do not have this ability to withstand risks.
At this point, Xiao Xiuning turned around and bowed to Xiao Yu.
"The Duke of Zhenguo's words are a good thing that benefits all people. Xiuning also requests that Father Emperor establish the Dali News Agency to enlighten all people under heaven!"
The teamwork between Mu Zi'an and Xiao Xiuning was simply seamless.
The question-and-answer session left Xiao Yu completely bewildered.
At this moment, Xiao Yu was also making plans in his mind.
As the saying goes, "three men can make a tiger," let alone the power of public opinion among millions of people.
The Pei family is a prime example; such a formidable force must be brought under the control of the imperial court.
So even if it's unfair, we have to do it, especially considering the plan Mu Zian made.
This newspaper will not only not lose money, but may even make a profit, so what reason do I have to refuse?
Upon realizing this, Xiao Yu coughed lightly twice.
"In that case, let's leave the establishment of the Dali Newspaper Office to the Duke of Zhenguo."
"Xiuning".
"Your subject is here."
"You will assist me in this matter. The affairs of the newspaper are of great importance and absolutely cannot be taken lightly."
"Your subject obeys the decree."
After speaking, Xiao Yu's gaze fell on Shen Congwu again, and he immediately felt angry again.
"How could you, the commander of the Imperial Guards, do such a thing!"
"If this happens again, I'll make you a guard of the city gates!"
Shen Congwu had a grievance he dared not speak of.
One is the most favored Ninth Princess, and the other is the powerful Duke Zhenguo.
"Your Majesty, I thank you for your grace!"
Mu Zian stayed in the palace from day to night.
As night fell, Mu Zian was finally released by Xiao Yu.
At the same moment Mu Zian left the palace, a carrier pigeon quietly took off from inside the palace.
Dark clouds obscured the moon, making the entire capital city seem as if it were encased in an upside-down bowl.
Mu Zian was resting with his eyes closed inside the carriage.
The surroundings were as quiet as a graveyard.
Snap! Snap!
Raindrops fell from the pitch-black sky.
The horses' hooves made a crisp sound as they trod on the bluestone slabs.
Just then, a whooshing sound of wind suddenly came from the darkness!
A roar followed!
"Go to hell!"
The next moment! A massive figure descended from the sky, wielding a giant hammer!
Mu Zian suddenly opened his eyes inside the carriage.
A thunderclap boomed across the sky!
The dazzling light seemed to illuminate the surroundings as if it were daytime!
A deafening roar!
The carriage Mu Zian was sitting in was instantly smashed to pieces by a hammer.
Horses neighed in agony! Blood flowed freely!
Raindrops the size of peas pelted the ground, forming a small stream.
Pei Shaoqing, with a crazed expression on his face, slowly emerged from the shadows in the darkness.
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