Prime Minister

Chapter 1376 A Day That Will Be Recorded in History

Outside the Zhang residence, an inconspicuous carriage was hidden in the night.

Inside the carriage, Xiang Zongliang, the governor of Lizhou and the younger brother of Empress Dowager Xiang, lowered his voice and said to Han Zhongyan, "Lord Han, you are wise. Now is the perfect time to bring down the Grand Commandant."

Han Zhongyan said, "I have been friends with Sikong for thirty years. How can I turn against him at this time?"

Xiang Zongliang sneered, "Lord Han remembers his thirty-year friendship with the Minister of Works, but the Minister of Works may not remember. Otherwise, given Lord Han's role in the succession and his pivotal support of the court at the beginning of the Yuan You era, how could he have ended up not being admitted to the two offices?"

"I remember that the Empress Dowager mentioned it to the Minister of Works several times, but the Minister of Works always stopped her."

Xiang Zongliang was pleased to see that Han Zhongyan looked displeased upon hearing this.

Zhang Yue's decision to prevent Han Zhongyan from entering the two mansions was indeed a knot in his heart.

Seeing this, Xiang Zongliang continued, "Furthermore, this action is not a betrayal, but rather an act of advocacy for the safety of the nation."

"I understand that perhaps Sikong has already promised Han Gong a place in the two ministries after the Western Expedition."

"But does Lord Han know that after the Minister of Works decides to resign from his position as prime minister, then it will be the Empress Dowager who will make the decision."

Han Zhongyan said, "The important matter is not yet completed, and the Minister of Works has already relinquished his position. This is truly unwise. Who will take his words to heart now?"

"Tell the Empress Dowager that I know what to do in court tomorrow."

Xiang Zongliang was overjoyed and said, "That's wonderful! The Empress Dowager will not forget this and will surely repay you handsomely in the future."

Han Zhongyan smiled faintly and said, "This is the duty of a ruler and his subject, there is no need to talk about repaying him."

After saying this, Xiang Zongliang left, while Han Zhongyan tidied up and entered the Zhang residence.

As Han Zhongyan stepped out of the carriage, he looked out at the scenery of the capital.

At this moment, Ma Xing Street is still open all night long, with painted boats on the Bian River near Zhou Bridge singing and dancing, and talented men and beautiful women in the lanterns of Fanlou. This is Bianjing City, where millions of people live and work in peace and contentment.

……

Zhang Mansion.

At this moment, Zhang Yue sat upright in the pavilion with a brush in hand, Peng Jingyi held a candle beside him, and Zhang Gen ground ink.

This was an ordinary autumn night, nothing out of the ordinary in the long river of history.

I wonder if Zhuge Liang wrote his "Memorial on Dispatching the Troops" a thousand years ago on an autumn night like this.

Back then, the great Han prime minister devoted himself wholeheartedly to supporting Shu Han. Amidst the doubts and opposition from the court, he wrote the "Memorial on Dispatching the Troops" with grief and indignation.

At this moment, as Zhang Yue put pen to paper, he seemed to feel the same way Zhuge Liang wrote his "Memorial on Dispatching the Troops."

Centuries later, Zhang Yue felt the same way Zhuge Liang expressed when he wrote the "Memorial on Dispatching the Troops"—a sentiment he shared despite knowing the Han dynasty was powerless to save it, yet knowing it was futile but still striving to achieve it.

However, "the royal cause cannot be confined to a corner, and the Han and the traitors cannot coexist!"
In the past, Shu Han attacked Cao Wei, a weaker force overcoming a stronger one. However, after decades of effort by the court since the Xining era, the disparity in national strength between Song and Dangxiang has become far greater than that between Cao Wei and Shu Han in the past.

In terms of military, culture, politics, and economy, the Song Dynasty completely overwhelmed the Tanguts.

In both political and military struggles, most people are opportunistic and, to put it bluntly, only side with the winner.

But now the Liao Kingdom's intervention has reversed the situation.

However, it is important to understand that above subjective viewpoints and objective facts, there is one thing that can transcend both: a moral stance.

The proclamation emphasizes 'righteousness'.

Zhang Yue's biggest problem now comes from within, not from without. Empress Dowager Xiang is not alone; she also represents the consensus of the faction in the court who want to maintain their peace. Why must they take the huge risk of a decisive battle with the Liao Kingdom to eliminate the Dangxiang, who have already surrendered to the Song Dynasty?

This is similar to the situation within Shu Han, where people didn't understand why Zhuge Liang insisted on sending troops to attack the powerful Cao Wei, a move driven by the weakness of Shu Han.

Because most people can't see the reason.

That's why Zhuge Liang said, "If we don't punish the rebels, the kingdom will perish. Is it better to sit and wait for death than to attack them?"

If we don't attack Cao Wei, Shu Han will perish sooner or later. Rather than sitting and dying, we should attack and try to save our lives.

Zhang Yue also understood that, according to the original history, the Northern Song Dynasty did not destroy the Dangxiang, which delayed the progress of recovering Youyan, and was eventually replaced by the Jurchens, who then marched south and perished.

To remain in a precarious position is tantamount to waiting for death.

If you don't fight hard now, how will you fight when the Jurchen or Mongol armies are pressing in?

Only after eliminating the Tanguts can we freely contend with the Liao Dynasty for control of Youyan. With the natural defenses of the Yanshan Mountains in Hebei, we can advance or retreat as needed. We must use offense to gain sufficient strategic maneuvering space, while defense will only lead to further retreat.

Like life, a nation is like a boat sailing against the current; if you don't move forward, you fall behind.

As Zhuge Liang stated in his "Memorial on the Expedition," throughout history, it has always been through countless battles and hardships that one gains control of the world. Liu Bei and Cao Cao both suffered numerous defeats, but ultimately, they secured their rule and established their empires in a single decisive battle. In contrast, figures like Liu Yao and Wang Lang, each occupying a prefecture or county, constantly quoted the words of sages, appearing remarkably wise. However, they indulged in favoritism year after year, ultimately allowing Sun Ce to grow powerful and eventually annex the entire Jiangdong region.

To seek comfort and security without any trouble is like boiling a frog in lukewarm water.

This is what it means to sit and wait for death.

However, most people in the world are content with their current precarious situation, greedy for short-term gains, and blind to the great troubles to come.

While launching a western expedition now certainly carries some risk, if we don't take that risk now and instead sit in the court all day fantasizing that the situation will change in our favor, then even greater risks will await us in the future.

We must not be complacent and wait for death.

As Zhang Yue picked up his brush and dipped it in ink, he couldn't help but think to himself, "Prime Minister Zhuge's Memorial on Dispatching the Troops is truly a beacon, illuminating the ages."

In the autumn wind, Peng Jingyi held a candle, its flame flickering between light and shadow.

Zhang Yue's thoughts were initially hesitant, but as he put pen to paper, they became clearer and clearer. He was both telling the world and dissecting his own mind.

Never compromise with mediocrity; the most important thing for a person is ambition.

It's okay to be ordinary or suffer setbacks now, but it's bad to lose your spirit.

The same applies to nations; the more they try to lie low, the less they can.

If you don't proactively choose risks and difficulties, you will definitely face even greater and more difficult passive risks and difficulties in the future.

Zhang Yue's article is a direct expression of his feelings.

That's right, I'm not someone who's always steadfast in my resolve.

Today I received a letter from Yelü Hongji. I also wavered and doubted my initial choice. If I were to fall into the hands of everyone, the consequences would be unimaginable.

This manifesto is now gradually taking shape under my pen.

This article also powerfully refutes those in the government and the public who advocate partial peace, arguing why it is necessary to eliminate the Tanguts instead of allowing a subjugated Tangut.

Now is absolutely not the time to enjoy peace and prosperity, but a time of crisis and survival, a time for loyal ministers and righteous men to risk their lives!

Zhang Yue finally finished writing his manifesto, wiping away sweat countless times. He didn't feel the usual exhilarating feeling after finishing a piece, but rather an inescapable burden, a weight as heavy as Mount Tai on his shoulders.

This is truly a magnificent and powerful piece of writing; even Luo Binwang's proclamation against Wu Zetian is no more impressive.

Zhang Gen finished reading and thought to himself.

"Daddy!"

Zhang Geng exclaimed with great enthusiasm, "This article should be printed and published immediately!"

Zhang Yue smiled solemnly. This manifesto was not particularly outstanding; it wasn't his best piece of writing.

As he put down his pen, Zhang Yue looked up and saw a vast expanse of stars.

Zhang Yue thought to himself, those who served Guo Jia, Li Zicheng, and Zhuge Liang throughout history aimed to "accomplish the affairs of the emperor and the world, and win fame before and after their death!" But even those who served Guo Jia, Li Zicheng, and Zhuge Liang were ultimately powerless to reverse the decline of a dynasty...

But... so what?

Zhang Yue said, "Second Brother, most things in the world are grand but useless. Just like the stars in the sky, they are dazzling but meaningless."

"But when you look up at the starry sky and seek its meaning, this matter takes on its meaning."

Immediately, Zhang Yue said, "Don't issue the official seal for copying! And don't tell anyone outsiders about the proclamation!"

Zhang Gen said, "Father, rest assured. I know the principle of being cautious in office and not speaking ill of Wen Shu."

Peng Jingyi also agreed.

Zhang Yue strode away, chanting a long poem.

"The immortal touches my top and bears longevity."

……

"I will try my hand at the strategies of a hegemon, and look forward to the glory of high office."

……

"A sword is no match for ten thousand men, and literary talent steals fame from all corners of the world. Child's play is not worth mentioning; five sighs escape from the Western Capital."

……

"He feared the heavenly wolf with his curved bow, and dared not draw his arrow. He wept at the Golden Terrace, crying out to heaven and lamenting for King Zhao."

……

"When the two emperors went on a trip to Yu, the two capitals were reduced to ruins."

……

"Even a cunning dog barks at Yao, and the Xiongnu laugh for a thousand years. I sigh four or five times in the middle of the night, always worrying about the great nation."

……

At this moment, Zhang Cheng arrived after hearing the commotion.

Zhang Cheng asked Zhang Gen, "What is Father's decision?"

"Why are you suddenly reciting Li Bai's poems again?"

Zhang Geng said, "They are all men who 'sigh four or five times in the middle of the night, and are always worried about the great nation.'"

"However, I think Li Bai's poem is not as good as Du Fu's 'Northern Expedition'."

"The glorious achievements of Emperor Taizong were magnificent. Now is the perfect time to make great strides in establishing ourselves in the world."

Zhang Gen showed the proclamation to Zhang Cheng, who was overjoyed when asked about it. He said, "I always thought that Father was lazy and didn't write any articles, so he always asked my brother to write the memorials."

"Now that we have this proclamation, it is enough to shake the world."

Zhang Gen said, "Mother is right. Father is a hero who is also an ordinary man."

……

At this moment, in the living room of the Zhang residence.

Zeng Bu, Chen Guan, and Cai Bian, Cai Jing, Han Zhongyan, and others who arrived one after another.

Many officials wore expressions of deep worry, while a few remained calm and composed.

In the dead of night, the tea room in the Zhang residence was still busy, constantly refilling the tea or tea snacks for these people.

Zeng Bu couldn't sit still, so he paced back and forth by the window. He had missed the meeting of the chief ministers in the capital today because he claimed to be ill, so he came to the Zhang residence late at night.

Several officials were pacing outside the door when they heard someone suddenly say...

"The Minister of Works has arrived!"

Upon hearing this, Zeng Bu and everyone else rose from their chairs and stood in the hall, finally seeing Zhang Yue, dressed in a cloth robe, enter.

"Greetings, Minister!"

The officials all spoke in unison.

Candles were lit on all four walls of the hall, illuminating the shadows of all the officials' robes and their facial expressions clearly.

Zhang Yue pressed his hand down and looked at everyone.

Having just finished writing the manifesto, the turmoil in my heart has not yet subsided. At this moment, I hold it back, which is exactly the time when I have thunder in my heart but my face is as calm as a still lake.

"As you all have probably heard, the Liao dynasty has quelled the rebellion of Mogus, and Yelü Hongji has threatened to lead a million-strong army south."

The officials nodded.

Zhang Yue said, "I have lived forty-five years in vain, and served as an official for twenty-seven years in vain. All of this is in the past, but I have never understood it as clearly as I do today."

"Heaven is about to bestow a great responsibility upon this person! All the decades of my life have passed for this day, no, I am living in this very moment!"

"Gentlemen, the plan for the western expedition remains unchanged!"

After saying this, Zhang Yue waved his sleeve and strode out of the hall.

After he finished speaking, the hall fell into a brief silence.

Chen Guan stared at Han Zhongyan and asked, "What does the Grand Secretary think?"

Han Zhongyan stood up and said, "As Sikong said, we have been working towards this day for decades."

After saying this, Han Zhongyan left on his own.

Cai Jing, whose brows had been furrowed, seemed relieved at this moment and said to his attendants, "I knew the Left Prime Minister wouldn't make a decision any easier."

Zeng Bu said, "How can it be any different? Even if Cao Mengde's lifelong ambition was nothing more than the tomb of the late General Cao Hou of the Han Dynasty."

Zeng Bu and Cai Jing had a close relationship and often teased each other.

But Chen Guan said solemnly, "To fight the traitors for the country with such heroism, how can you say it's not enough?"

At this moment, the officials of Zhang's faction also felt relieved.

Originally, some people were hesitant about whether to send troops or not, and some who came tonight even pleaded with Zhang Yue to reconsider his decision. However, now that Zhang Yue had made his final decision, there were no more concerns.

After a night of discussion, the officials gradually calmed down.

As they stepped outside, the sun was faintly rising, dispelling the confusion in their eyes and inspiring a sense of the true nature of the nation.

The officials bowed and took their leave, each riding in their own carriages straight towards the palace gate.

Meanwhile, within Zhang Yue's shogunate, Lü Yihao, Li Kui, and others were busy contacting various court officials.

Zhang Yue sat alone in the dark room, waiting for the court session to begin; soon, that would be the real battlefield.

Due to their differing views, a power struggle between him and the Empress Dowager was inevitable, and such a struggle would be extremely dangerous.

……

The waiting courtyard before the palace.

The newly appointed Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Fan Chunren, is waiting in line.

Yesterday, he was in the office due to a cold and neither he nor Zeng Bu went to the capital. However, he was shocked to hear that the Liao army was going to bring a million troops to aid Lingwu.

Today, he disregarded his still-healing cold and rushed to the palace.

Many officials who opposed the war against the Tanguts or had previously fallen from power rallied around Fan Chunren, using the war as a pretext for factional struggles—a tactic they consistently employed. In fact, the closer the war drew to a close, the fiercer the infighting became between the opposing and supporting factions in the court.

Meanwhile, the debates in the imperial court spread to the general public, including students, scholars, merchants, and ordinary people.

Fan Zuyu said, “Nowadays, among the students of the Imperial Academy, the young people are showing their talents and are all arguing about matters of war and defense.”

"It seems that there is a Zhou Bangyan who has made a great name for himself at the Imperial Academy by taking advantage of these remarks and the Western Expedition."

Fan Chunren raised an eyebrow and said, "Is that the one who presented the 'Ode to Bianjing' to the late emperor?"

Fan Zuyu said, "That's right. This Zhou Bangyan is a sycophant who follows the crowd and says whatever people want to hear, pandering to popular opinion. He is a hypocrite and a traitor to morality."

Fan Bailu said, "Indeed, in recent years, the western expeditions have been victorious one after another, and the court and the public have been talking about military affairs extensively. Now that we have finally managed to form an alliance with Liao and Dangxiang, it is difficult to convince people with the pretext of Li Zuoming's matter."

"A person cannot stand without integrity, and so can a nation."

"There are too many officials like this nowadays, and under their influence, they have become the popular choice. These fools love to talk big on paper, always claiming that the court's actions must have a deeper meaning. It's as if the Tanguts can be defeated in a day or two, and the Khitans are nothing to fear. Only we, the discerning people, can stand on the right path."

Some officials said, "The imperial court has 500,000 troops in Shaanxi and Hedong, and 200,000 to 300,000 soldiers under Zhang Heng in Hebei. In addition, there are the natural barriers of Tangbo and Liusai, and the assistance of the Dengzhou navy. We may not be afraid of Liaodong."

Fan Zuyu retorted, "The troops from Shaanxi and Hedong seem strong, but they haven't encountered the Liao army yet. Didn't they suffer a crushing defeat in the Battle of Yongle City? As for the troops from Hebei, they haven't seen much combat. Although they have many troops, how can they withstand the Liao's elite cavalry?"

Fan Bailu bowed to Fan Chunren and said, "Now that Uncle Hui is not in the capital, the affairs of the court will depend on you, Prime Minister. Many ministers will support you in opposing the Minister of Works' western expedition."

Sensing Fan Bailu's unspoken meaning, Fan Chunren said, "I have never intended to use public opinion to replace anyone. I only wish to do my duty for the sake of the world, to restore peace between Song and Liao and avoid war."

Fan Bailu was taken aback upon hearing this and felt secretly ashamed.

Although it was early autumn, Bianjing was already quite chilly, especially in the early morning when the sun was just rising.

The officials bowed to Fan Chunren one after another, earnestly requesting his assistance.

Fan Chunren coughed a few times, and just then, everyone saw the magnificent fire city from the steps of the waiting courtyard.

At this moment, a ray of dawn appeared on the horizon, and the east was not yet fully bright. The lanterns and torches carried by the prime minister's entourage illuminated the area in front of the palace.

"It's Sikong!"

Fan Bailu said.

"The Left Prime Minister has arrived," Fan Chunren said.

At this moment, the palace gates were not yet open, and the jade water clock in the waiting courtyard was still dripping slowly. A carriage stopped, and the curtains of the prime minister's attendants were lifted.

But Zhang Yue slowly descended the steps.

"Meet Sikong!"

All the officials held their breath and bowed in unison. Zhang Yue cupped his hands and stepped into the waiting courtyard.

Zhang Yue hadn't slept all night and was quite tired. Just now, when the carriage passed through the market, he saw that the vendors and artisans were up earlier than the policymakers themselves, busy making a living.

As Zhang Yue watched the people live peacefully and carefree, he wondered what impact his decision today would have on their future lives. In the end, he was unknowingly drawn into all of this.

After Zhang Yue took a few steps, Fan Chunren followed him and said, "Prime Minister, a report from Zhongshan Prefecture states that Xiao Tabu, the Southern Privy Councilor of the Liao Kingdom, has led his army to Liudian in Weizhou."

Upon hearing Fan Chunren's words, Zhang Yue thought to himself that Xiao Ta's appearance in Weizhou did indeed represent a possibility: that the Liao army intended to move south or west.

Zhang Yue nodded and asked, "Can you figure out what the Liao emperor is thinking right now?"

The two stepped over the stairs, talking as they walked.

Fan Chunren shook his head upon hearing the refusal and said, "No."

"But what if the Liao army marches south into Hebei?"

As he spoke, Fan Chunren stared into Zhang Yue's eyes. Zhang Yue took a few steps and said confidently, "Yaofu, if I said I had a foolproof plan, I would be lying to you."

Fan Chunren was stunned.

Zhang Yue looked at Fan Chunren.

The two of them were not on the same path.

Zhang Yue came from a poor family and his studies were very difficult. However, after becoming the top scholar in the imperial examination, the court always groomed him to be a future prime minister. His career could have been progressed step by step according to the plan, but he chose to take an unconventional path and went to the northwest to seek military merits to rise in rank. In the end, he became prime minister.

Fan Chunren was the son of a prime minister. From a young age, he associated with Hu Yuan, Sun Fu, Shi Jie, Li Gou and other disciples of Fan Zhongyan. He benefited from the teachings of famous teachers and strict fathers. However, because he was the son of a prime minister, he did not enter officialdom until after Fan Zhongyan's death. He was not expected to be a prime minister at first, but he was upright and honest in his official duties and had a good reputation. He rose all the way to the position of prime minister.

The difference between the two at this critical juncture lies in their choice of which path they believe is in the best interest of the country.

Fan Chunren said, “Sikong, even the most foolish person can see clearly when criticizing others, while the most intelligent person is often confused about their own faults. Therefore, we should be as critical of ourselves as we are of others, and as forgiving of others as we are of ourselves.”

"Regarding the western expedition, although I am foolish, I know that we should not attack, while although I am wise, I am trapped by my own ideas and fail to see clearly."

"Since ancient times, one should not seek to be successful or complete in one's career. Why is Sikong so fixated on this matter and unable to understand it?"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yue nodded: "Yaofu, you are wrong."

After saying that, Zhang Yue grasped Fan Chunren's hand.

Fan Chunren felt his hands trembling, and he realized that Zhang Yue was not as calm as he appeared, but rather uneasy.

"Sikong, you..."

Zhang Yue said, “Yaofu, before I became prime minister, you said that although I have talent, I lack responsibility, and I am good at seeking profit and avoiding harm, only knowing how to protect myself. I dare not say that you are wrong. But there are no heroes and great men in this era, and the decision to decide the affairs of the world rests on our shoulders.”

"From humble beginnings to becoming prime minister, I have had to tread on thin ice more carefully than others, simply because I cannot afford to lose. And now, if this matter fails, I know better than anyone else in the world what kind of consequences I should bear."

Fan Chunren looked at Zhang Yue's sincere face and said, "The Minister of Works has governed the country for three years, and his achievements are already widely recognized. If there are any heroes today, it is the Minister of Works. I, Fan, retract my previous statement in front of the Minister of Works."

“In other matters, I, Fan, would certainly support Sikong with all my might, but in this matter, how could I... Sikong is risking the fate of the Song Dynasty, and the people of the world would not agree, nor would the officials.”

Zhang Yue said to Fan Chunren, "Yaofu, the 'yes' of many scholars is not as good as the 'honest' of one scholar. Thank you for your honest advice."

"I have always regarded Wen Zheng Gong as the person I admire most in my life, and I used him as an inspiration when I was young."

"Lord Wenzheng is as steadfast as a pine or cypress. It was only after the late emperor suffered humiliation at the hands of Li Yuanhao that the Qingli Reforms were implemented. I ask you, if Fan Wenzheng were alive today, would he support my western expedition to destroy this false Xia dynasty?"

Zhang Yue paused and Fan Chunren said, "There's a truth to tell you, Yaofu. Do you want to hear it?"

Fan Chunren nodded.

Zhang Yue said, "I was poor from a young age. When I ate elsewhere, the rice was served until it was overflowing. When I was studying, I was like Su Qin, who could persuade a ruler not to offer him gold, jade, brocade, and the honor of a high-ranking official."

“If the court proceeds in a routine and does nothing, then it will be impossible for someone like me, from a humble background, to stand here as prime minister.”

"Only when the nation is in peril should we step forward..."

As they spoke, the Xihua Gate in front of them slowly opened, and under the bright torches on the palace walls, the faces of the palace attendants appeared to be indistinct in light and shadow.

Zhang Yue sighed, "Who wouldn't want to be a prime minister during times of peace!"

……

Grand Council.

This grand court assembly, though not held on the first day of the first lunar month, is nonetheless crucial to the fate of the Song Dynasty.

Zhang Yue, dressed in a purple robe and jade belt, held a tablet in one hand and walked along the palace path with his sleeves tucked in, looking at the palace in the morning light.

This is the stage for officials, and also their battlefield.

The long palace walls and roads led straight to the Zichen Gate, which were all too familiar to Zhang Yue.

A gentle breeze blew in, and as he walked, the sky grew brighter and brighter. His brows furrowed with determination, and his steps became unwavering.

After passing through the Zichen Gate, thousands of imperial guards holding golden maces lined both sides of the palace road, and officials followed Zhang Yue into the Zichen Hall in single file.

The officials knew that today's discussion would be recorded in history, and there were twice as many attendants outside the palace as there were on previous days.

Inside the hall, civil and military officials stood in their ranks, their court robes neat and tidy. Hundreds of officials stood inside. Outside the hall, however, stood thousands of officials from the capital, who, though ineligible to enter the hall, were also required to stand in their ranks.

Unlike usual, the Empress Dowager and the Emperor were late in arriving today, and the officials in the hall were buzzing with discussion, their long-legged turbans swaying from side to side.

"The Liao Kingdom is stronger than our Great Song Dynasty; we cannot fight them!"

"The Liao army has a million troops; they are invincible!"

"Instead of negotiating peace and attacking Zuo, we should change it to attacking Zuo and negotiating peace."

"We must give Yelü Hongji some face."

"Otherwise, the consequences would be unimaginable."

Even if the Imperial Censor, who was in charge of enforcing the law in the palace, were to step forward at this moment, he would not be able to suppress the undercurrents that were swirling everywhere.

Zhang Yue heard it clearly: with the Liao army's intervention, the officials, scholars, and even the common people had already spread the word. Some said they could win, while others said they couldn't. Both sides held their own opinions. The common people, unaware of important matters in the court, mostly made guesses out of thin air.

In reality, officials in the government are no more aware of the balance of power between the two countries than ordinary people, but they all want to appear wise and insightful in front of others to show that they are not armchair strategists.

Seeing this, Han Zhongyan, the Imperial Censor, stopped suppressing the discussion and allowed the officials to continue. This was a public opinion within the court, and such public opinion ultimately represented the will of the people.

Zhang Yue stood alone, standing apart from the crowd, when he heard someone behind him say, "Grand Tutor!"

"Master!"

Zhang Yue turned around to look.

To the surprise of all the officials, Wen Yanbo, who had been claiming illness and not attending court for nearly half a year, also came to the Zichen Hall today.

But then they saw Wen Yanbo, hunched over, leaning on a dragon-headed cane, being helped step by step up to the palace by his son, Wen Jifu, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel.

The officials present all stepped forward to pay their respects to Wen Yanbo, and several even exchanged a few words before returning to their ranks. Seeing Wen Yanbo enter the hall, the officials in the court who had opposed the western expedition were immediately filled with renewed confidence.

Indeed, although Lü Gongzhu was away from home, there was still a pillar of the court like Wen Yanbo, who could rival Zhang Yue.

Upon reaching the throne, Zhang Yue and Wen Yanbo exchanged glances and nodded to each other. Then, the eighty-year-old Wen Yanbo, supported by Wen Jifu, stood at the foot of the steps.

At this moment, who doesn't know what this elderly, four-dynasty prime minister is thinking?

At this moment, the whip cracked, and the Emperor and Empress Dowager finally arrived, and the discussions in the hall ceased.

The emperor's gaze swept over the ministers in the hall, dressed in crimson and purple robes. Today's court meeting was no ordinary one; the decision on war or peace would be made today.

The emperor still remembered the long talk the Empress Dowager had with him that morning after learning of Zhang Yue's determination to launch a western expedition.

The Empress Dowager said to the Emperor, "Your Majesty, the late Emperor often said that there are no virtuous ministers or treacherous ministers in the world."

“When you can keep him firmly under control, he is a wise and loyal minister; but when you indulge and neglect him, he is a treacherous and wicked minister.”

"Judging whether a person is loyal or treacherous cannot be done once and for all; it requires constant observation and scrutiny. This is the way to govern people... These are the words of the late emperor, and they are what I can teach Your Majesty. For years, you have seen the Minister of Works act arbitrarily in the court. This time, he is going against the will of the world to carry out this dangerous expedition to the west."

"To put it another way, it's all for the sake of the people."

"Furthermore, such matters of national destruction should be handled by Your Majesty in the future when you assume personal rule. How can you entrust them to ministers?"

After hesitating for a long time, the emperor asked the empress dowager, "If the Minister of Works insists on the western expedition, who else can replace him as the Left Minister of Works?"

The Empress Dowager said, "Lu Gongzhu shall be the Left Minister, and Cai Bian or Han Zhongyan shall be the Right Minister."

"Reclaiming the former territories of the Han and Tang dynasties is the late emperor's will, and Your Majesty cannot abandon it, at least not in name."

As the emperor gazed at the sandalwood incense emanating from the bronze cranes flanking the imperial steps, he seemed somewhat dazed. He knew that the Empress Dowager had decided to abandon the western expedition.

But then the Empress Dowager behind the curtain said, "The Liao emperor's letter requesting aid to the Dangxiang has been discussed by the ministers in the capital all day yesterday."

"Some of the ministers present already understand, while others do not."

"However, it is alright. Matters of national importance are of great significance, and I dare not make decisions on my own, nor can any minister in the palace make such decisions."

At this point, the Empress Dowager glanced at Zhang Yue below the steps.

"No matter what rank you hold, even if you are an eighth or ninth-rank official, you may speak freely in the court today, and all your words will be pardoned."

Upon hearing the Empress Dowager's words, Zhang Yue thought to himself, "The Empress Dowager is indeed shrewd. This clearly means that officials other than those in power can participate in the discussion."

Expanding the scope of officials participating in the deliberations—the Empress Dowager, worthy of her family's prime ministerial background, is truly astute.

As the Empress Dowager spoke these words, the court officials were inevitably moved. In the past, important national affairs were discussed by the heads of the two ministries, while minor matters were discussed by the two officials in charge, or heard by the officials in the palace during important occasions.

But this time it was during the Grand Council meeting, where officials of the highest rank, and even those outside the palace, could speak and participate.

This was the first time such an event had occurred, and many officials were eager to participate. The Empress Dowager's actions spoke volumes.

Could Zhang Yue object at this moment? He couldn't object, otherwise he would be violating the ancestral system of allowing differing opinions to circulate.

Understanding the Empress Dowager's plan, Zhang Yue smiled slightly. However… he would never fight on the battlefield chosen by the other side.

"Your subject has a memorial to present!"

At this moment, Zhang Yue stepped out of the class and presented the manifesto he had written the night before.

Shi Deyi was taken aback; he clearly hadn't expected Zhang Yue to have prepared a memorial in advance.

"Would you like to present your statement later, Minister Sikong?"

Zhang Yue glanced at Shi Deyi, whose face stiffened and he took a step back. Zhang Yue then said solemnly, "Your subject has a memorial to present!"

Zhang Yue was the Minister of Works and the Left Vice Minister; who would dare to stop him from submitting a memorial? Shi Defang had risked being impeached by all the censors and officials to ask this question, which was already a way of repaying the Empress's great kindness.

Shi Deyi could only descend the steps, and Zhang Yue would take control of the situation.

Today, the Empress Dowager intends to let the officials discuss the matter freely and stir up trouble, but I will break with the existing plan and present the memorial to the officials for their consideration before they discuss it.

Taking the initiative is crucial in these kinds of power struggles; you can't wait for others to make the first move.

Shi Deyi was about to step forward to present the memorial, but Zhang Yue said something else.

"Go away, I'll recite it myself!"

Zhang Yue unfolded the proclamation himself and immediately read it aloud in front of all the civil and military officials.

As soon as the proclamation was read aloud, the murmurs in the hall subsided once more.

When Zhang Yue read the line, "Your Majesty entrusted me with the care of the young emperor and the fate of the nation, and this moment of great importance cannot be taken away," many officials stroked their beards and sighed.

Even the Emperor heard the Empress Dowager's soft sigh from behind the curtain. The Emperor turned his gaze back to Zhang Yue in front of the hall, whose expression remained indifferent.
However, when they heard the phrase "mobilize all the manpower and resources of the world for this battle," it revealed the intention of "not hesitating to fight the invading Liao invaders with all our might," causing the ministers and officials present to look away.

"Since Emperor Wu of Han opened up the borders and established the four commanderies of Hexi, by the time of Emperor Taizong of Tang, the entire Western Regions had been incorporated into the territory. Lingwu, Xiazhou and other places were all conquered by our Han soldiers. The right wing of Chaoshun Military Commandery was the Beidi Commandery during the Han Dynasty! The left wing of Shenyong Military Commandery was the seat of the Shuofang Military Governor during the Tang Dynasty."

"Now the Tanguts have usurped the Xia throne for over a century, usurping power and claiming authority—a true disgrace to China!"

……

The late emperor was a wise and sagacious ruler who generously devoted himself to the world, achieving great feats, yet his success was not yet realized.

……

Retreat is as perilous as a pile of eggs; seeking only a partial peace will surely invite great disaster!

With the full strength of the nation today, now is the time to defeat the dying enemy, restore the former territories of the Han and Tang dynasties, and establish a lasting dynasty!

All my subjects, soldiers, and civilians should share this sentiment: the desire to reclaim our homeland must never be extinguished. We would rather die in battle to uphold loyalty and righteousness than live a life of dishonor and be ashamed before history!

……

Empress Dowager Xiang was also well-versed in literature and poetry. Upon hearing this chapter and this proclamation of war, she realized that "the facts are clear and the reasoning is sound, the spirit is strong and the words are decisive." She immediately knew that things were not good, and that the people's hearts in the court had been swayed by him.

Although Su Shi was a talented writer with insightful reasoning, when it comes to using literature to move people's hearts, Zhang Yue stands out.

Thinking of this, she looked at Yan Shouqin beside her and asked, "Has Lu Gongzhu sent any letters?"

Yan Shouqin shook his head.

……

The proclamation was broadcast simultaneously, and even the officials standing outside the palace heard it clearly.

The officials in the hall looked excited and invigorated, and some even wiped away tears with their sleeves.

Zhang Yue thought seriously, his heart filled with heroic spirit from beginning to end, feeling the exhilarating feeling of cutting through the clouds with his sword.

The emperor, seated on his throne, gripped the hilt of his sword, his chest heaving. As an emperor, he inevitably had to learn to control the impulsive and restless nature of humanity. He had always been cultivated to be a courteous emperor, but now he felt a surge of resentment in his chest, wishing he could personally lead his troops into battle.

Finally, after the proclamation was read aloud, the hall fell silent.

Zhang Yue carefully put away the proclamation and handed it back to Shi Deyi.

Shi Deyi was at a loss.

At this moment, Su Song stepped forward, held his tablet, bowed respectfully, and said, "Your Majesty, Your Majesty, this is the time to 'build upon the accumulated achievements of six generations, implement long-term strategies to govern the world, and conquer the two Zhou dynasties and destroy the feudal lords.' Since Emperor Taizu established the dynasty, through Emperors Taizong, Zhenzong, Renzong, and Yingzong, up to the late Emperor, there have been six generations!"

"The Chancellor and Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Su Song, seconded the proposal to attack Xia!"

After Su Song finished speaking, he stepped forward and stood behind Zhang Yue.

"Building upon the accumulated achievements of six generations, and wielding long-term strategies to govern the world..." The emperor murmured, pondering Su Song's words, a fire burning in his heart.

Wen Yanbo, leaning on a dragon-headed cane, stood on the golden hall and slowly walked out of the hall with the help of Wen Jifu.

"Your Majesty, Gao Yao said that knowing people is wisdom, and being able to appoint people to official positions is skill. The late emperor knew how to know people, which is why he entrusted the position of Minister of Works to him. The Minister of Works has been in power for three years, bearing heavy responsibilities and being entrusted with matters of urgency. He can be said to have found the right people!"

"Grand Tutor and Chancellor of Military and State Affairs, Wen Yanbo, seconded the motion!"

After speaking, the elderly Wen Yanbo slowly moved his feet and finally stood behind Zhang Yue.

Then, the purple robe fluttered.

Huang Lü stepped forward and said sternly, "How can we do this today by being firm yet yielding!"

"Your humble servant Huang Lü, the Vice Minister of the Chancellery, second this proposal!"

After a brief pause, Zhang Yue listened.

"I, Li Qingchen, the Vice Minister of the Chancellery, second this proposal."

"During the Tang Dynasty, Zhu Ci was defeated and trapped. Zhang Guangsheng killed Zhu Ci and then surrendered, but he was still killed. Before his death, Zhang Guangsheng said: 'Pass on this message to future generations: First, do not do it; second, do not stop it.'"

"Now the court has a million troops stationed in the northern frontier, and weapons and provisions have been transported there. If we abandon the plan to launch the Northern Expedition because of a single document, the court will be laughed at by the world, and the northern barbarians will also laugh at the lack of talent in our dynasty. No one in the court will mention the Northern Expedition again, and the hard work of the late emperor and hundreds of thousands of soldiers will be ruined in an instant. I believe that if you do something, you should not do it at all, or if you do it, you should not stop."

"Your subject, Privy Councilor Shen Kuo, seconded the proposal!"

"Your humble servant, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Xu Jiang, seconded the proposal!"

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yue knew that Fan Chunren, who was ranked ahead of Xu Jiang, had neither spoken out nor objected.

"Your subject, Vice Privy Councilor An Tao, seconded the motion!"

"Your subject, Lü Dafang, Deputy Privy Councilor, second this proposal!"

"Your subject, Deputy Privy Councilor Zeng Bu, seconded the motion!"

One by one, the prime ministers stepped forward to express their support.

Seeing that everyone was talking, Shi Deyi said, "Officials below the rank of prime minister, as long as you agree or disagree, let's not say anything else for now."

"Your humble servant, Cai Bian, Minister of Personnel, seconded this proposal!"

"Your humble servant, Chen Guan, Minister of Revenue, seconds this proposal!"

"Your subject, Imperial Censor Han Zhongyan, second this proposal!"

……

Standing before the emperor, Zhang Yue could sense the growing number of people behind him without even turning around.

Zhang Yue held the tablet in his hand, his lips trembling slightly. His eyes seemed to be brimming with tears, but he forced himself to hold them back. He took a deep breath and turned his gaze elsewhere.

"Your subject wholeheartedly agrees..."

"Your subject, Lin Xi, second this proposal..."

The emperor gripped the imperial sword at his waist, his chest heaving, while behind Zhang Yue, court officials stood in rows, each holding a scepter.

In the blink of an eye, hundreds of court officials in the Zichen Hall were standing behind Zhang Yue, while only a few remained motionless.

The team is growing stronger.

The Empress Dowager behind the curtain showed panic on her face.

The intention was to allow officials in the court to discuss freely, but unexpectedly, the prime ministers and other officials stopped them from discussing and took the lead in expressing their opinions collectively.

Even Wen Yanbo, who had previously opposed the Dangxiang military campaign, has now joined Zhang Yue's camp. Fan Chunren, on the other hand, remains neutral.

What's going on? Are they not even afraid of the Liao Dynasty's million-strong army?
These court officials are actually volunteering for battle today!

"Your subject, Xu Deming, second this proposal!"

After the last official in the hall expressed his opinion, the emperor's expression on the throne was no longer solemn, and the outcome of today's discussion was already clear.

The Empress Dowager looked from behind the curtain at Zhang Yue, whose expression was calm in the hall. At that moment, Zhang Yue raised his head and looked back behind the curtain.

The Empress Dowager felt a chill run down her spine. What she saw in Zhang Yue's eyes was none other than the gaze of a young man.

What is the look in a teenager's eyes? Unwavering, unyielding, stubborn yet innocent.

The Empress Dowager gripped the armrest of her chair, thinking to herself, "No wonder the late Emperor trusted and valued this person so much."

The Empress Dowager felt a pang of pity and said.

"It's not that I disagree, but I'm afraid of offending history. Since all the officials hold this view, Your Majesty and the Chancellor should make the decision yourselves!"

"I don't think we'll necessarily lose this battle. We might even be able to take back Youyan."

The emperor felt a surge of emotion upon hearing the empress dowager's words.

In truth, he knew perfectly well that Zhang Yue had said he would return power to the emperor after the western expedition, allowing him to rule in his own right. If the western expedition was rejected, it was uncertain whether Zhang Yue would become prime minister, but the empress dowager would continue to rule from behind the curtain, and returning power to him would be a distant dream.

However, out of filial piety, he dared not oppose the Empress Dowager.

Now that the Emperor had waited for the Empress Dowager to express her opinion, his gaze shifted from hesitant to resolute. He thought to himself, "I will build upon the legacy of six generations, implement long-term strategies to govern the world, conquer the two Zhou dynasties and destroy the feudal lords. I... I will, like the Qin Emperor, ascend to the supreme position and rule the six directions, wielding the whip to chastise the world, my power shaking the four seas!"

Thinking of this, the emperor drew his sword from his waist and said loudly, "The late emperor reigned for twenty years, fighting countless battles and making the Dangxiang people confined to a corner of the country."

"Now only a few prefectures, such as Xingzhou, remain unconquered. I will carry on the late emperor's will and am determined to destroy this false Xia in one battle!"

After speaking, the emperor drew his sword and struck the imperial vase beside him, saying, "The matter is now settled. If anyone changes their mind again, I swear that my life will end like this vase."

As the bottle shattered, the officials shouted "Long live the Emperor!"

The emperor stood with his sword in hand, looking out from the black gauze hats of the generous and upright officials at the vast southern sky beyond the palace, his eyes slightly red.

Then the emperor himself descended the steps, placed the sword in front of Zhang Yue with both hands, and said: "During this western expedition, if any official below the third rank disobeys orders, the Minister of Works shall execute him with this imperial sword!"

Zhang Yue said, "Your subject accepts this!"

Zhang Yue held the Emperor's Sword in his hand, and the blade, as smooth as an autumn mirror, clearly reflected his face.

This is me in my forties, and also me in my teens.

That experienced young man.

P.S.: This is the finale, no need to rush it.