Section 2

Xiao Youdan felt a chill in his heart and pretended to ask Liu Chen: "I have heard that before the late Han Shizhong passed away, he recommended Sima, Fan, and Shi. I wonder, in your opinion, among these three, who is the most virtuous?"

That is wonderful! Sima Guang and Wang Anshi both advocate for peace, so there is certainly no chance of conflict. In my opinion, what is there to fight over in those hundreds of miles of unclaimed land

Xiao Xi, however, did not have such ulterior motives and simply asked: "Does the Southern Dynasties truly intend to sever the goodwill between the two nations over a mere few dozen miles of land?"

"Military officials aspire to achieve great accomplishments and are naturally unafraid of warfare. As for the state's strategy of war and peace, I, as a minister, foolishly suggest that the opinions of military officials should not be the primary consideration. In fact, Fu Bi and Shi Yue did not advocate for war against the Liao state; they merely believed that the Liao people were bluffing and would not dare to engage in battle, which is why they proposed a hardline approach," Zhang Zun further stated.

"Elder brother, you have forgotten that after Shiyue proposed that method to the Emperor, our family purchased a mine in Hebei. Among our relatives, many either invested together or used their own funds to buy mines there. If a war breaks out, wouldn't everything be ruined?" Lü Shengqing said with an awkward smile.

"Seeking fields and inquiring about houses, with no great ambitions!" Lü Huiqing could not help but scold, and after a moment, he continued: "The elder statesmen of the court have submitted memorials, some advocating for war and others for peace, all in a state of indecision. Cai Ting, Wang Shao, Fu Bi, and Shi Yue advocate for a tough stance against the Liao people, simultaneously preparing for war while engaging in negotiations. Sima Guang, Wang Anshi, and their ilk all support peace talks..."

Please, Your Majesty, calm your anger and think twice before acting Everyone urged in unison

Lü Huiqing did not turn her head, teasing the parrot, ignoring him.

Lv Huaiqing cautiously observed Zhao Xu's expression, then spoke solemnly: "In the past, there was Modun Chanyu of the Xiongnu, who was pressured by powerful neighbors. These neighbors demanded beautiful women and wealth, and Modun complied with their wishes. However, when they demanded barren land, Modun decisively executed the ministers who proposed ceding territory, resolutely refused, and led his troops into battle, ultimately achieving great power. Modun was merely a barbarian, yet he understood that land and people are the foundation of a nation. Even the smallest piece of barren land cannot be given away. Your Majesty must not overlook this."

Lv Huiqing cast a sidelong glance at Zhang Zhun and said, "I believe that among all things in the world, anything can be ceded, but the territory of the nation cannot be given up"

Cai Jing reported to Shi Yue on the situation of the maritime trade. "... After the typhoon season, new ships joined the fleet. After discussions with Xue Shixian, we divided into two groups and made two trips to Goryeo and Japan. Thanks to your great fortune, everything went smoothly, and the profits were quite considerable. Although we lost a large ship due to a reef collision during the journey, resulting in the loss of one hundred and thirteen sailors, after deducting the compensation, the surplus is still nearly seven hundred thousand guan. Both countries are very eager for the products of the Celestial Empire. However..."

Lü Huiqing lowered her head, pretending not to notice Zhao Xu's expression, and continued to recount the situation of the audience with Liu Chen and Lü Dazhong, while Han Jiang looked on with a face full of embarrassment, casting a resentful glance at Lü Huiqing

Hangzhou. The Jiusi Hall of the Prefecture Governor's Office.

Shiyue was momentarily taken aback. He only knew that a thousand years later, various countries were eager to promote their own cultures to others, referring to it as "soft power." How could he still remember that ancient China once had such prohibitions? After pondering for a moment, he smiled and said, "The envoy from Goryeo, Kim Deok-soo, has repeatedly requested books, and now he is so enchanted at the West Lake Academy that he seems to have forgotten his homeland. The court has always treated Goryeo with special consideration, so it is likely that selling the 'Nine Classics,' Confucian texts, and historical works to Goryeo would certainly be approved. The Maritime Trade Office has many responsibilities, and it seems unnecessary for Yuan Chang to be troubled by such trivial matters."

The important officials of Hangzhou, such as Shi Yue, Peng Jian, Xue Yi, Zhang Shangying, and Cai Jing, have almost all gathered

Li Xiangan, who had been standing by to serve, was taken aback to hear that Zhang Zhun had actually leaned towards Shi Yue. Zhang Zhun was appointed to pacify Jinghu and could be considered an important figure among Wang Anshi's New Party. After Wang Anshi's downfall, it was one thing for Zhang Zhun not to support Lü Huiqing, Cai Que, and Zeng Bu, but it was quite another for him to show favor towards Shi Yue. Although Li Xiangan was accustomed to the intrigues of power, he found this behavior quite astonishing. However, with Li Xiangan's limited perspective, he naturally could not comprehend the mindset of someone like Zhang Zhun, nor could he understand what political opportunism entailed. Zhang Zhun, who was positioned lower in the ranks of the New Party, certainly had his own considerations.

Everyone was taken aback and hurriedly stood up. Shi Yue adjusted his attire and shouted loudly: "Open the central door to receive the imperial edict!"

After much difficulty, Zhao Xu, who had been stirred by a sense of ambition, was completely shaken before the joint memorials opposing war from Wang Anshi, Sima Guang, and Fan Chunren. Among the ministers of that era, both Wang Anshi and Sima Guang were the ones Zhao Xu trusted the most, whether in court or in the political arena, a fact that perhaps even Zhao Xu himself was not fully aware of

The inner servant responded and withdrew. After a short while, Lü Huiqing arrived under the guidance of the inner servant. After paying his respects, Zhao Xu said: "I have just discussed the northern affairs with Zhang Dun. How do you think we should respond to this?"

In order to prevent the Liaoning envoy from probing into the national situation, Liu Chen remained inseparable from Xiao Xi and Xiao Youdan. He heard Xiao Xi exclaim and, smiling, pointed to a restaurant ahead, saying: "The sand sugar ice snow dumplings from that shop are the best in flavor. Would you two like to try them?"

Zhao Xu remained silent. The responses from Lü Huaiqing and Zhang Dun did not help him make a decision; rather, they made him even more hesitant. Within the court and among the people, there were many who feared the enemy and advocated for compliance with the requests of the Khitan, while others passionately argued for a hardline refusal, calling for a northern expedition to fight to the death. Figures like Han Jiang were solely focused on fearing the enemy and avoiding conflict, preferring to avoid trouble rather than confront it. Zhao Xu felt that this was a matter of face, and as Lü Huaiqing had said, he worried that the Khitan would take advantage of any concession, leading to an inescapable situation. As for launching a northern expedition, that was even more of a so-called "desperate gamble," joking with the survival of the state. Naturally, Zhao Xu would not adopt such a course. He tolerated the existence of these voices, but felt that this morale and public sentiment were quite precious. However, if he were to truly follow the requests of figures like Fu Bi, Shi Yue, and Lü Huaiqing to refuse the Khitan's requests and take the initiative, Zhao Xu also felt a lack of confidence. Zhang Dun made it clear that for at least two years, the Song dynasty did not have the resources to engage in a war with the Khitan. Moreover, as Han Jiang and others pointed out, if the Khitan were truly provoked into invading, Hebei and Hedong would become battlegrounds. Even if they could ultimately repel the Khitan, it would still result in mutual destruction. The losses for the Song dynasty would far exceed what the Khitan was currently demanding. Furthermore, this would allow the Western Xia to reap the benefits, and Wang Shao's efforts in the Xihe region, as well as Zhao Xu's strategy of first focusing west and then north, could all be ruined in an instant.

Xiao Xi glanced at Xiao Youdan, and seeing him nod, smiled and said: "That is indeed a great blessing for the palate"

Lv Huiqing smiled and said: "Your Majesty, do you understand the principle that an arrow on the bowstring must be released? In the past, when Emperor Jing quelled the rebellion of the Seven States, was he ever fully prepared? During the Battle of Chanyuan, was he ever fully prepared? Moreover, my proposal is not to immediately sever trade with the border markets, refuse envoys, or attack You and Ji. I advocate for a resolute rejection of the unreasonable demands of the Liao envoys, while simultaneously strengthening our military readiness to guard against any eventuality"

Cai Jing smiled and said: "It is only that the court has strict orders that Confucian classics, important political edicts, and historical texts must not be sold to the barbarians. Even if the Khitan seek books, whether through smuggling or by requesting a grant, the law prohibits their sale. However, among the merchant ships, due to the great desire of both countries for the cultural relics of the Celestial Empire, the nobles often offer hundreds of gold pieces for books, and thus the private trade of books continues unabated despite repeated prohibitions..."

Lv Shengqing was momentarily taken aback and replied, "It is Shen Jichang."

Shiyue Dao: "Such trivial matters can be decided by the two of you." After he finished speaking and was about to continue with his official duties, he saw the steward rush in hastily, reporting: "My lord, there is a royal decree!"

The knowledge and character of these three individuals are beyond my ability to judge

Shiyue questioned: "Is there truly not a single capable talent among the captains in the fleet?"

Liu Chen and Lü Dazhong returned to Bianjing, and before they could warm their seats, they were summoned to the two offices to discuss matters.

Shiyue, however, completely ignored Peng Jian and smiled at everyone, saying: "700,000 guan, after deducting the principal and covering the salt and tea taxes, is more than sufficient. I have already requested the court to commend Cai Yuanchang and Xue Shixian, and the Emperor has issued a special decree, granting each of them two promotions and a scarlet robe as a reward."

Lv Huiqing further stated: "To gain one thing and desire another, the human heart is never satisfied. If we easily grant concessions to the Khitan today, they will be insatiable in their demands in the future, and China will never know peace again. I hope Your Majesty will think this over carefully."

I will not allow this situation to arise, " Lü Huiqing said softly to the mute parrot.

Deng Wan knew that Lü Huiqing had already been persuaded, and said: "For the sake of my lord, to secure favor, there are two things to consider. First, it is necessary to expel Wang Anshi and Shi Yue from the court; over time, any kind of favor or trust will fade away. Second, it is essential to have someone close to the Emperor who can influence him. This was the very strategy used by Wang Jiefu in the past"

Deng Wan wanted to say something more, but Lu Huiqing had already turned away, no longer paying him any attention, and he could only leave in disappointment. As soon as Deng Wan stepped out the door, Lu Shengqing suddenly emerged from behind the screen and laughed, "Elder brother, why did you send Deng Wenyue away?"

They may be able to command a single ship, but to lead a fleet and represent the court in negotiations with the maritime tribes is simply not feasible

It is said that the Emperor has issued a decree to inquire about the border defense strategies from the senior officials. Fu Bi, following Han Qi, has once again recommended Shi Yue to the Emperor, and the Prime Minister must be cautious! Deng Wan seemed to follow Lü Huiqing like a little dog, while Lü Huiqing noncommittally responded with a "hm" and continued to amuse himself with the parrot in the cage. "This Shi Yue is treacherous and cunning, hypocritical and pretentious, truly a living Wang Mang. Who is the person the current Emperor trusts the most? Is it the Prime Minister? Allow me to speak frankly, the Emperor's trust in the Prime Minister is not as great as his trust in Wang Anshi!" This Shi Yue is treacherous and cunning, hypocritical and pretentious, truly a living Wang Mang. Who is the person the current Emperor trusts the most? Is it the Prime Minister? Allow me to speak frankly, the Emperor's trust in the Prime Minister is not as great as his trust in Wang Anshi! And the Emperor's trust in Wang Anshi will definitely not be less than his trust in Shi Yue!" When Deng Wan mentioned Shi Yue's name, he couldn't help but grit his teeth, as if he wanted to crush those two characters.

Zhao Xu pondered and said: "I am already aware of this matter. However, Gou Jian also had his days of enduring hardship and tasting bitterness. Many ministers oppose going to war, citing insufficient national strength and unpreparedness for battle."

Liu Chen persuaded the two to share a drink, then filled his own cup, raised it, and drank it all in one go. He sighed and said: "Today, being able to drink with both of you here is entirely thanks to the diplomatic relations that have lasted for over seventy years between the two dynasties, which have not yet been severed. If one day these relations are cut off, we will become enemies, and that will be a situation where we cannot coexist."

Lü Shengqing looked at Lü Huiqing with a semblance of understanding yet confusion

At the moment of expressing his gratitude, Xue Yizheng hurriedly stated: "During the summer and winter seasons, sailors are trained in the port, while in the spring and autumn, they go to sea for trade, which is indeed the way to sustain the military through commerce. I believe that after several round trips to Korea and Japan, I have become quite familiar with the routes and cannot abandon them. However, I think that both countries are impoverished, and the volume of trade is limited. If it continues like this year, it would be akin to fishing in a dried-up pond, which is not a sustainable approach. I believe that after several round trips to Korea and Japan, I have become quite familiar with the routes and cannot abandon them. However, I think that both countries are impoverished, and the volume of trade is limited. If it continues like this year, it would be akin to fishing in a dried-up pond, which is not a sustainable approach. Therefore, rather than cutting expenses, it is better to open new sources. After next spring, I request to lead a team to the countries in the South Seas mentioned in your esteemed writings to explore new trade routes. However, on the side of Korea and Japan, we are troubled by the lack of capable individuals to oversee matters. If the sailors are left without supervision, they are likely to cause trouble on land. Although Fu Gui is familiar with the language of the barbarians and can engage in trade, he lacks authority and, without an imperial decree, cannot lead the troops."

In that case, I will recommend Shen Jichang to the Emperor to serve as a storyteller in the Chongzheng Hall alongside you. The Emperor is intelligent and eager to learn, and your knowledge may not suffice; having both of you together, if there are any difficulties, Shen Jichang may be able to answer on your behalf, covering for you. Lü Huiqing remarked that in the past, when Wang Anshi was in office, he arranged for someone to take the position of storyteller in the Chongzheng Hall to influence the Emperor in place of Wang Anshi; however, now, apart from Chen Yuanfeng, he cannot find anyone of merit to fill that position.

Not only does Xiao Youdan hope that Shi Yue does not enter the decision-making level of the Song Dynasty, but there are also many others in the Song court who share this sentiment

Xue Yi further stated: "Moreover, the officials' ships' sailors have repeatedly smuggled goods despite prohibitions. I have discussed with Cai Yuanchang and believe that since the ban has proven ineffective, it would be better to simply allow the sailors to carry a fixed quantity of private goods, which would also boost their morale. I would also like to request your guidance on this matter."

But a mute parrot will never betray you! A petty person like Deng Wenyue, if made a trusted confidant, will only need a good price in the future, and he will be able to sell you without hesitation!

The two individuals first arrived at the central government office, where they met with the chief envoy Wu Chong and the deputy chief envoy Cai Ting, among others. After reporting the situation, Wu and Cai did not inquire about the opinions of the two and simply ordered soup to send them off. The two then proceeded to the Secretariat, where the officials inquired about the negotiations. After hearing the details, Han Jiang, Wang Gui, and Feng Jing all insisted that "it is unwise to lightly initiate hostilities," while only Lü Huaiqing remained silent and refused to express his stance. Liu Chen argued vigorously, asserting that the land from Mount Huangwei north to the ancient Great Wall was documented in the archives of Daizhou, and the central government also had records of it. This land originally belonged to the Song Dynasty, and there was absolutely no reason to cede it. The two returned to the Secretariat, where the officials again inquired about the negotiations. After hearing the details, Han Jiang, Wang Gui, and Feng Jing reiterated that "it is unwise to lightly initiate hostilities," while Lü Huaiqing remained silent. Liu Chen continued to argue, stating that the land from Mount Huangwei north to the ancient Great Wall was documented in the archives of Daizhou, and the central government also had records of it. This land originally belonged to the Song Dynasty, and there was absolutely no reason to cede it. As a result, he was reprimanded by Han Jiang, who was intent on becoming a peaceful prime minister, and was told, "To take something, one must first give something." The officials in the Secretariat were overly cautious and sought peace. Hearing Lü Dazhong and Liu Chen's uncontrollable anger, the two erupted in the Secretariat. Lü Dazhong sneered at Han Jiang, saying, "Sir, what a good saying, 'To take something, one must first give something'! If the Liao people send an envoy to our Bianjing, they could demand five hundred li of land and several million guan in compensation; if King Yelü Yixin of Wei were to come in person, would we then have to give him the land south of Guan?" Liu Chen was even more acerbic, stating, "To take something, one must first give something; after all, the land south of Guan was restored by Emperor Zhuang of the Zhou. What harm is there in giving it to the Liao? It is just that as an envoy, I would rather die than obey such an edict! Gentlemen, please first ask the Emperor to accept our envoy before you go about taking and giving!" The two berated the officials in the Secretariat thoroughly, saying, "To take something, one must first give something; after all, the land south of Guan was restored by Emperor Zhuang of the Zhou. What harm is there in giving it to the Liao? It is just that as an envoy, I would rather die than obey such an edict! Gentlemen, please first ask the Emperor to accept our envoy before you go about taking and giving!" They then turned and left. Han Jiang and the others were left utterly humiliated.

As for Shi Yue, let us not discuss him for the time being. Fu Bi, while in charge of the northern defense at Zhao Ling, was sent on a mission to the Northern Dynasties. This elder's opinion, in my humble view, Your Majesty should take seriously. Since serving Your Majesty, Shi Yue has almost left no stone unturned in his strategies. It is my foolish opinion that Your Majesty should not take Shi Yue's suggestions lightly.

Liu Chen smiled as he led the two into the shop. In addition to the sugar-coated ice and cold dumplings, he casually ordered several dishes to accompany the drinks, including roasted pig skin, wild duck meat, crispy crystal fish, and wild fox meat, and requested a few pots of yellow wine. The three of them began to drink together in the night market.

Xiao Xi and Xiao Youdan were momentarily taken aback, as they did not expect Liu Chen to suddenly bring up these words. The two had been in close proximity to Liu Chen for several days and greatly admired his character and talent. Although they were each loyal to their own countries, there was a sense of mutual respect. Xiao Youdan, the foremost sage of the Khitan, was instantly reminded of the story from the Qingli period when Fu Bi was sent to Liao, and the Liao emissaries, upon receiving him, expressed mutual admiration for Fu Bi, which helped persuade Liao to withdraw its troops. This thought made him secretly vigilant.

The newly appointed Director of the Military Equipment Bureau, Zhang Dun, lowered his head and responded in a manner that did not address the question: "Your Majesty, Su Zhe, Tang Di, Chen Yuanfeng, Cai Bian, and Shen Kuo have been responsible for the reform of the Military Equipment Bureau, and we are beginning to see results. Standardized production is gradually being implemented, and the improved crossbow has also been successfully trial-produced. If we are to discuss the preparation of military equipment, the only thing we currently lack is money. The costs of bows, crossbows, arrows, thunderclaps, and explosive projectiles are quite high, representing a significant expenditure. If Your Majesty provides me with sufficient funds, I, in collaboration with Su Zhe, can ensure that within two years, the royal army will be well-equipped!"

Proclamation

Liu Chen and Lü Dazhong are indeed generous men of great stature? Are they mocking me, suggesting that I am even inferior to Emperor Zhou Shizong? The Khitan people are aggressive; this is intolerable, who can endure it?! Issue a decree to summon Wang Shao back! Summon Wang Shao back!

With a loud shout, a dark mass of people knelt down in the Chongzheng Hall. Han Jiang repeatedly said: "Your Majesty, please quell your anger! Your Majesty, please quell your anger! The expedition to the north must not be undertaken at all! Even if the Liao envoy is disrespectful, if Your Majesty is determined to sever relations, it is only necessary to summon the ministers to discuss border defense and personally lead the expedition to the north. Caution is imperative! I implore Your Majesty to first calm the thunderous wrath and think carefully before acting!"

"Apart from the military officials, few support going to war," Zhao Xu seemed to be murmuring to himself

Shen Jichang? Wang Anshi's brother-in-law?" Lu Huiqing frowned

The emperor remained silent, and both Lü Huaiqing and Zhang Zong found it inappropriate to speak, so the two stood with their arms crossed, each lost in their own thoughts. Two days prior, Zhang Zong had heard that an imperial censor had impeached Han Jiang, accusing him of being cowardly and avoiding battle because the Han family's assets were all in Hebei, fearing that once war broke out, their wealth would be destroyed. Although this memorial was suppressed by the emperor, Han Jiang had suffered a defeat in Shaanxi, and his performance as a chancellor had been lackluster. Now, with such accusations circulating, it was evident that Han Jiang's favor with the emperor was coming to an end. Zhang Zong even heard some rumors suggesting that the censor who impeached Han Jiang had received hints from Lü Huaiqing. Although this memorial was suppressed by the emperor, Han Jiang had suffered a defeat in Shaanxi, and his performance as a chancellor had been lackluster. Now, with such accusations circulating, it was evident that Han Jiang's favor with the emperor was coming to an end. Zhang Zong even heard some rumors suggesting that the censor who impeached Han Jiang had received hints from Lü Huaiqing. He recalled Lü Huaiqing's recent responses, and it suddenly became clear to him—if the emperor ultimately did not adopt Han Jiang's proposal of fear and seeking peace, then according to the customs of the Song Dynasty, Han Jiang would have to resign voluntarily. If he were to cling to his position, the emperor could simply show him the suppressed memorial. In that moment, Zhang Zong hesitated—wasn't everything he was doing precisely helping Lü Huaiqing? He glanced at Lü Huaiqing from the corner of his eye, only to find Lü Huaiqing secretly looking at him as well. Their eyes met for a fleeting moment, and with a firm resolve, Zhang Zong decided: even if he was being used by Lü Huaiqing, he could only proceed down this path. He was contemplating how to speak to the emperor when Zhao Xu suddenly said: "Yesterday, I summoned Han Wei, but he is a muddled person with no opinions. When I was in the Eastern Palace, Han Wei was an assistant in the archives, and whether it was poetry, literature, or current affairs, he had no opinions, always deferring to Wang Anshi's views. This flaw has persisted for seven or eight years without change. When I asked him about northern affairs, he only knew to recommend Shi Yue to me..." This flaw has persisted for seven or eight years without change. When I asked him about northern affairs, he only knew to recommend Shi Yue to me...

Zhao Xu, with a blank expression, dismissed his two ministers and walked towards the palace exit. "Prepare to depart—" the sharp and elongated voice of the inner servant echoed in the Chongzheng Hall. At the moment he stepped out of the Chongzheng Hall, Zhao Xu suddenly gritted his teeth and said in a deep voice: "Send envoys to inquire about the border defense strategies of Fu Bi, Wang Anshi, Shi Yue, Wen Yanbo, Zeng Gongliang, Sima Guang, and Fan Chunren!"

Deng Wan was taken aback by Lu Huiqing's righteous declaration and momentarily found herself at a loss for words: "My lord, I, I..."

The emperor issued several edicts in one breath. Han Wei, being the younger brother of Han Jiang, was supposed to refuse according to protocol. However, when he looked up and saw the emperor's expression, he found himself unable to utter even a single word of refusal. After hesitating for a long time, he finally managed to say: "As you command!"

Lv Shengqing said: "What is so amusing about a mute parrot?"

Zhang Zhun's eyes flashed with a hint of skepticism as he leaned forward and smiled, saying: "Does Your Majesty believe that Wang Anshi, Sima Guang, Wen Yanbo, and Zeng Gongliang understand the affairs of Liao, or that Fu Bi and Shi Yue are more knowledgeable about them?"

Lv Huiqing shot him a cold glance and said, "Why do you care about this?"

Because this is a matter of the central government, Wu Chong hurriedly replied: "The Liao envoy is extremely rude. Xiao Xi even said that if there is no conclusion, he will not return to the Liao state. Whether it is war or peace is entirely up to our court to decide." Regardless of Han Jiang, Feng Jing, and others desperately signaling, Wu Chong kept his head down, pretending not to see.

It is a pity that I should not have sent Chen Lushan to the local area, otherwise..." Lu Huiqing sighed and then asked, "Who is your closest friend, the one with the best knowledge?"

Lv Shengqing did not dare to retort and hurriedly changed the subject, saying: "Elder brother, what exactly are the regulations regarding the war with the Liao state set by the court?"

Everyone immediately expressed their admiration. The so-called "two promotions" refers to my official elevation by two ranks. To be promoted two ranks is already a source of envy, and to receive a special imperial decree and a scarlet robe is an exceptionally rare favor. Cai Jing and Xue Yi could not help but feel overjoyed and hurriedly expressed their gratitude.

In the Chongzheng Hall, there was an immediate silence akin to death, with only Zhao Xu's roar echoing throughout the hall

What is it? It is the transformation of the body and the nurturing of the spirit. When Shi Yue was in Bianjing, it could be said that he had only superiors and no subordinates. However, after arriving in Hangzhou, he found himself with only subordinates and no superiors. Over the past two years, having been elevated to a high position, he has exhibited a greater degree of authority in his speech and demeanor, while showing less caution.

However, both Wang Anshi and Sima Guang believed that it was unnecessary to provoke the Liao people, as they were inherently barbaric and unreasonable. If they were to become enraged, it could lead to detrimental consequences for the state. Wen Yanbo, Zeng Gongliang, and others also suggested that striving for a negotiated resolution to the dispute was the best course of action. Zhao Xu hesitated and remarked

Zhao Xu wore an expression of displeasure

What do you know? Your insight is even less than that of Deng Wan! Lü Huiqing is truly extremely disappointed in this younger brother. Short-sighted! If neither of the two courts has a significant figure advocating a hardline stance, those in the political arena who support a hardline position, the "Qingliu," will inevitably seek out a significant spokesperson, and in today's world, who else could that spokesperson be but Shi Yue? At that time, if Shi Yue enters the Central Secretariat, he will truly become the one whom all expect.

"What is so good about it? How many people have been drenched in sweat at that position when questioned by the emperor? Do you think it is a favorable position?" Lu Huiqing reprimanded.

Zhao Xu listened to Zhang Zhun's words and found them quite reasonable. Just as he was about to speak, a eunuch approached, knelt, and reported: "Your Majesty, Lü Huiqing requests an audience"

Zhao Xu gazed at the ministers kneeling on the ground, and suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of extreme depression. He suddenly thought of Shi Yue and Wang Anshi; what would happen if these two were present... Northward expedition, the northward expedition, that was merely a momentary expression of anger... After a long while, Zhao Xu helplessly sighed. "Issue an edict from the Secretariat regarding the strategies for border defense and military operations! Wang Shao is appointed as the Deputy Minister of the Secretariat and will return to the capital immediately. The military affairs in Xihe will be temporarily handled by Gao Zunyu. Han Wei is appointed as a Hanlin Academic. Zhang Dun is appointed as the Chief of the Imperial Secretariat and concurrently as the Director of the Military Equipment Bureau."

Lu Huiqing felt a chill in her heart and was about to choose her words to obstruct him, but she heard Zhao Xu already say: "Han Wei also has this idea; I ordered a decree to be conveyed yesterday."

That's wonderful! Lv Shengqing couldn't help but feel delighted, as the position of storyteller in the Chongzheng Hall is one that is highly respected.

Lv Huiqing slowly turned around, glanced at Deng Wan a couple of times, and suddenly said with a smile: "Deng Wenyue, do you think I am like you? The Emperor is a wise ruler, Wang Jiefu and I share a master-disciple relationship, and Shi Yue is a pillar of the court. In order to vie for favor and consolidate power, you advise me to betray my own teacher and a minister of the court, deceiving the Emperor. You have misjudged me."

The night market near Zhuque Gate is bustling with voices and brightly lit.

Lu Huiqing's hand suddenly paused as he recalled the time of the winter solstice sacrifice. In order to test the emperor's intentions, he deliberately cited the precedent of the sacrificial amnesty to recommend Wang Anshi for the position of governor. Unexpectedly, he was immediately reprimanded by the emperor: "Wang Anshi did not leave his post due to a crime, why should he be reinstated through amnesty?" In the emperor's heart, there remained a deep affection for Wang Anshi. This Deng Wan was indeed not wrong in what he said

Damn it! Zhao Xu's anger finally erupted uncontrollably, "Then tell him, if they want to fight, I shall engage them in battle! I have had enough! I will personally lead the northern expedition!"

This ... ...

Xiao Youdan's expression darkened—could it be that the emperor of the Southern Dynasties is truly willing to go to war? Why has Goryeo sent envoys to pay tribute at this time?

Xiao Xi eagerly picked up a piece of sugar-coated ice dumpling as soon as the dish was served, placed it in his mouth, and closed his eyes to savor it carefully. After a while, he finally praised, "Indeed delicious"

Shiyue then said: "The court has always been generous in bestowing titles and rewards upon those who have made contributions. Everyone should encourage themselves in this regard." Immediately, there was a chorus of agreement from those present. He turned his head and said to Xue Yi: "Shixian, as we set sail next spring, what suggestions do you have?"

Cai Jing seemed to grasp Shi Yue's intention, appearing to have a rather indulgent attitude, and quickly agreed. Peng Jian also pondered over this conversation and couldn't help but glance at Shi Yue. The position of Tong Pan was originally intended to monitor the Zhi Zhou; in reality, whether the governance of the prefectures and counties in the Song Dynasty was primarily in the hands of the Zhi Zhou or the Tong Pan depended entirely on the individuals involved. Peng Jian was merely unfortunate to encounter a Zhi Zhou who was both high-ranking and diligent in governance, which left him in Hangzhou's administrative affairs almost as a mere spectator. However, if Shi Yue were to openly defy the imperial edicts... Peng Jian couldn't help but recall the suggestive letter from Lü Huiqing at home. Yet, regarding the power struggles at higher levels, Peng Jian still felt somewhat apprehensive; he was not a fool and did not wish to be used as a pawn.

"Let us discuss this matter again." Shi Yue understood in his heart that talented individuals are indeed something one can encounter but cannot actively seek.

Two years? Then it will still take another two years! Zhao Xu immediately discerned the implied meaning in Zhang Zong's words; this was a subtle suggestion for him not to rush into war, but to wait a little longer

Since the Khitan provoked the conflict, Zhao Xu has been meeting with the ministers of the two offices almost daily to discuss strategies. He had previously inquired about Lü Huaiqing's opinion, who at that time also stated that the territory could not be ceded. However, Lü's response back then was extremely tactful, far less resolute and straightforward than today. Zhao Xu valued Lü Huaiqing primarily for his abilities in domestic affairs and had no expectations regarding foreign matters, thus he did not take them to heart. Subsequently, the Council of State, led by Prime Minister Han Jiang, repeatedly reported on the matter, and there was no disagreement; it was merely a matter of advising him to learn from Goujian. This exchange from Lü Huaiqing truly exceeded Zhao Xu's expectations

Xiao Youdan felt increasingly uneasy as Liu Chen did not deny that Han Qi had recommended the three individuals. "Shiyue! Shiyue..." Xiao Youdan was secretly calculating in her mind.

Zhang Zhun hurriedly praised, "Your Majesty is wise." Lü Huiqing seemed to have bitten into a piece of bitter herb, opening his mouth but ultimately saying nothing. He was unaware that at this moment, the Goryeo envoy had already arrived at the Ying Tian Prefecture, merely a few days' journey from Bianjing. It was Feng Jing who secretly instructed the Ying Tian Prefecture to retain the Goryeo envoy, waiting for Shi Yue to come and "accompany" them into the capital.

Zhang Zhun felt a stir in his heart and quickly smiled, saying: "I believe this is precisely Han Wei's strength; he knows how to conceal his shortcomings and does not envy the capable. Just these two qualities are indeed quite rare. I still hold my humble opinion that Shi Yue is not a talent of the caliber of a hundred miles and should not remain in a remote prefecture for long. The court has recently approved the entry of the Goryeo envoy Jin Deshou into the capital. Your Majesty, why not issue an edict to have Shi Yue temporarily transfer the prefectural affairs to the Tongpan of Hangzhou and accompany Jin Deshou to the capital? After the matter is concluded, whether to keep him in the capital or return him to Hangzhou, Your Majesty can deliberate at length."

At that very moment, I heard someone nearby faintly say: "Therefore, before his death, Minister Han recommended three distinguished individuals: Sima Junshi, Fan Yaofu, and Shi Ziming..."

Yes, it is him

Upon hearing Lü Huiqing recount Liu Chen's extremely rude remarks, Zhao Xu's pale face instantly turned crimson. He barely managed to refrain from erupting immediately and only asked, "How is the Liao envoy over there?"

"You may leave now. In the future, when it comes to being a person and doing things, you must maintain a righteous heart," Lü Huiqing said with a stern expression, reprimanding.

The prosperity of the Southern Dynasties is truly enviable, "Xiao Xi remarked with emotion

Liu Chen was about to speak when he suddenly heard someone shouting in the street: "Selling newspapers, selling newspapers, the latest report from the 'New Justice Newspaper'—Deputy Minister Wang, General Wang, has been summoned back to the capital... The court has granted permission for the Korean envoy to come to the capital to pay tribute—special report from 'Bianjing News', trade with Korea is beneficial and harmless..."