My father Liu Xuande

Chapter 250 The Battle of the Crouching Tigers
Before Cao Cao could speak, Liu Feng volunteered, "I have an idea that might help General Xiahou get appointed Governor of Henan."

What's your idea?

Cao Cao was overjoyed and urged, "Nephew, you mustn't keep anything to yourself."

Liu Feng considered his words carefully before asking, "What does the General think of Attendant-in-Ordinary Zhong?"

"Zhong Shizhong...?"

Cao Cao hesitated for a moment, then realized what he meant: "You mean Zhong Yuanchang?"

"Exactly."

Liu Feng praised, "Zhong Yuanchang is both honest and talented, with a distinguished family background. He is capable of undertaking important tasks."

"In my opinion, Han Zhengdong is indeed lacking in the ability to govern a local area."

Seeing Cao Cao's expression, Liu Feng tentatively suggested, "In that case, why not transfer the position of Commandant of the Capital Region to Zhong Yuanchang, and let General Xiahou succeed him as Governor of Henan? As for Che Zhou, he can be sent to Hongnong to serve as Governor of Hongnong."

"This……"

Cao Cao hesitated. Logically, Liu Feng's proposal was not to his liking. But the problem was that the plan essentially involved Liu Feng using Han Xian's position as Commandant of the Capital Region to exchange for the position of Governor of Henan from the Emperor's faction.

Not only could he not object, but he also owed Liu Feng a huge favor, which he would have to repay in the future.

Liu Feng wasn't actually at a disadvantage; Han Xian's position as the Commandant of the Capital Region was essentially a liability to Liu Feng.

Since Liu Feng wouldn't remain in court for long, nor would he want to engage in political struggle with Cao Cao, the presence or absence of this weapon wouldn't make much difference. Besides, this official position is currently only held by Han Xian, who at best is relegated to the outskirts of Xuzhou, barely managing to gain access by clinging to Yang Feng's influence.

Moreover, this person is incompetent, has an impatient personality, and acts rashly. If Liu Feng doesn't take care of him, he will surely lose his position as Commandant of the Capital Region for nothing.

Since it's inevitable that it can't be protected sooner or later, why not use it to make a deal, so that both the Emperor's faction and Cao's faction will owe me a favor? Why not?

"Alright, then I'll trouble you, Zisheng."

Cao Cao was Cao Cao after all. Although he was somewhat conflicted and hesitant, he quickly made a decision.

Although the power of the Governor of Henan was less than that of the Commandant of the Capital Region, it was still an equally important position for Cao Cao. To put it simply, the Commandant of the Capital Region was the sharp sword for offense, while the Governor of Henan was the strong shield for defense.

If Xiahou Dun could take the position of Governor of Henan, then Cao Cao would no longer have to worry about his safety in Luoyang.

If given a choice, Cao Cao would naturally want both. If he had to compromise, having the Commandant of the Capital Region would have been an even better option, since having a sword would allow him to seize a shield. But he couldn't choose either of those.

With the help of the Governor of Henan, at least there was no complete crop failure.

"Oh, right, there's another matter that's urgent, and I need your advice, Zisheng."

Cao Cao suddenly remembered something and said seriously, "Previously, you and I submitted a memorial requesting that Brother Benchu ​​be appointed as Grand Marshal, but the Emperor has been slow to approve it. This matter is very troublesome. Zisheng, do you have a solution?"

Just a few days ago, Cao Cao received a letter from Yuan Shao. For the first time ever, Yuan Shao did not rebuke or admonish Cao Cao, but instead gently affirmed Cao Cao's achievements and asked him to help appease Liu Bei so that the recommendation could be approved.

Cao Cao regretted it after receiving the letter.

Yuan Shao had always treated him as a close confidant, and thus often criticized him bluntly in his letters. This sudden change in attitude, however, put considerable pressure on Cao Cao, clearly indicating that he needed to succeed.

Cao Cao was naturally unaware that his nephew, who was sitting opposite him, also deserved some credit for this. Moreover, the nephew couldn't escape the blame either. The letter sent to Suiyang in Liang State had already been read by Liu Bei, and Liu Bei's letter was on its way to Luoyang.

Fortunately, when Liu Feng had previously used Liu Bei's name to set a trap for Cao Cao, he had sent a letter to the Liang Kingdom to explain. Otherwise, when Liu Bei received Yuan Shao's letter, he would have been completely bewildered and wouldn't have understood what Yuan Shao was saying at all.

"Uncle, this matter is indeed quite troublesome. The emperor has not agreed. What can we do?"

Liu Feng felt a little uneasy, and he could roughly guess that Yuan Shao must have also written a letter to his father.

As Liu Feng circled around, he secretly observed Cao Cao's expression.

Judging from the other person's expression, it seemed that they were unaware that he had secretly made false accusations in his father's name.

Cao Cao said naturally, "In my opinion, it would be better if the two of us mobilized all the officials to submit a memorial together, so that this matter can be approved. Otherwise, it will be difficult to explain to Brother Benchu."

Cao Cao's words were loaded with meaning: they were both foreign officials, newcomers, and could they possibly mobilize the other officials?
Those who listen to the two of them are clearly all warriors; Widow Cao is trying to set rules for the young emperor.

Liu Feng pondered for a while and felt that this matter had potential. Moreover, Yuan Shao would eventually have to promote him to Grand Marshal, otherwise this guy would definitely cause all sorts of trouble.

This is a crucial period for Xuzhou's vigorous development, and we cannot allow Yuan Shao to cause trouble from the south and hinder Xuzhou's expansion.

Moreover, Cao Cao's actions are so ruthless, isn't this exactly what his father often said: "Cao Cao is tyrannical, I am benevolent; Cao Cao is cunning, I am loyal; only by opposing Cao Cao can things be accomplished?"

Liu Feng agreed, saying, "In that case, I am willing to follow you, Uncle."

Cao Cao was overjoyed and hosted a banquet for Liu Feng that day, which lasted until dusk.

The next day, Liu Feng went directly to see Zhong Yao.

The two had become acquainted by this point, and Liu Feng continued to send them gifts.

At this time, Luoyang was lacking in everything.

If it weren't for Liu Feng, a kind and generous relative, Zhong Yao might not have been able to eat his fill every meal, let alone have access to snow salt at home.

Zhong Yao was quite grateful to Liu Feng, and he was also subtly leaning towards him.

Zhong Yao was a famous scholar from Yingchuan, a descendant of the Zhong family, one of the four major aristocratic families in the area. He seemed to be of the same generation as Xun Yu and Chen Qun, but in reality he was much older and his official career was more tortuous.

Of course, this twist of fate did not originate from officialdom, but rather from the times.

When Zhong Yao was transferred to the central government, it was precisely during the height of the struggle between He Jin and the eunuchs. This was followed by Dong Zhuo's entry into the capital, his deposition and installation of a new emperor, the subsequent coalition of eighteen warlords against Dong Zhuo, Dong Zhuo's relocation of the capital, Wang Yun's execution of Dong Zhuo, Jia Xu's disruption of the Han dynasty, and finally, the emperor's return to the east.

In this series of events, not only were the families of the Three Dukes executed, but even the Grand Tutor, who was the second most powerful man in the Eastern Han Dynasty, had his entire clan exterminated.

It's truly remarkable that Zhong Yao has survived to this day. What's worse, his marriage has been delayed, and he remains a bachelor to this day.

Upon hearing this, Liu Feng's heart stirred, and he began to think about whether any of his subordinates had a reliable family with an unmarried daughter.

"Zisheng, I have tried to persuade Yuan Jizhou about his position as Grand Marshal. Even the two high officials, Zhao and Guo, have repeatedly offered their advice, but the Emperor is determined to go his own way, and it is difficult to change his mind."

Zhong Yao looked at Liu Feng in front of him, feeling somewhat strange.

In terms of age, he was definitely Liu Feng's elder, being ten years older than Liu Bei. It was only right for Liu Feng to call him "uncle".

However, Liu Feng never acted like a junior in front of him, and their relationship was almost like that of friends.

Zhong Yao was initially a little uncomfortable, but as time went on, he began to think that having such a young friend despite their age difference wasn't so bad.

Upon hearing Zhong Yao's words, Liu Feng nodded in agreement, then changed the subject, saying, "There is an opportunity now, but I don't know how much influence Brother Zhong has in front of the Emperor."

"oh!?"

Upon hearing this, Zhong Yao immediately became interested: "I am quite highly regarded by the Emperor, but I don't know if that is enough for your needs."

Zhong Yao was being modest. He was now one of the emperor's top three confidants and was being groomed as a key figure. His importance was undeniable.

Liu Feng laughed and explained, "If that's the case, then with the Tiger-Sitting Formation and the generals' memorials, will we be able to persuade the Emperor?"

"The Crouching Tiger's Seal?"

Zhong Yao was greatly surprised. This "Crouching Tiger Seat" was not for a real tiger to lie on, but specifically referred to the Commandant of the Capital Region.

During the Eastern Han Dynasty, the Commandant of the Capital Region, the Imperial Censor, and the Minister of the Imperial Secretariat all sat on special seats during court sessions to demonstrate the emperor's favor, hence the term "Three Solitary Seats." The Commandant of the Capital Region held a high position and wielded great power, possessing the authority to oversee and execute officials, thus earning the nickname "Crouching Tiger."

"this……."

Zhong Yao's mind raced; he was both shocked and seduced by what Liu Feng said.

He is now just a court attendant. Although he can stay by the emperor's side for a long time, the imperial power is weak. Although the position of court attendant is still important these days, it is not as sought-after as it was decades ago. Moreover, even at its most popular time decades ago, the position of court attendant could not be compared with that of a powerful and cunning official.

This promotion was certainly tempting for Zhong Yao, but it wasn't without its problems.

Given the current power of military figures in Luozhong, this "Hidden Tiger" would undoubtedly be in a very frustrating position without the backing of the military. Therefore, Zhong Yao's attention shifted to Liu Feng, who was willing to consider him and was himself a powerful warlord.

Yes, in Zhong Yao's eyes, Liu Feng himself had already been separated from Liu Bei.

Even to the emperor, Liu Feng was a local lord whose influence was no less than that of Liu Bei.

Just look at how the opposing commander led 30,000 troops south to Yingchuan, and in just over half a month, he wiped out the Yellow Turbans in Yingchuan.

From the emperor and the general down to the three dukes and nine ministers, who in the court would still look down on Liu Feng, and who would dare to look down on Liu Feng?

Therefore, Zhong Yao's most urgent task is to figure out the most critical issue first.

So, is this position of "Crouching Tiger" meant for His Majesty, or for Zhong Yao?

This problem may seem like one, but there are subtle differences.

Zhong Yao regained his composure and said calmly, "Zisheng, what exactly do you mean by telling me this?"

Sure enough, Liu Feng replied, "Now that the Crouching Tiger's Seat is vacant, Brother Yuan Chang must be qualified to compete for it. In that case, how can I not lend you a hand? If I can help Brother Yuan Chang achieve his wish and experience the power of the Crouching Tiger, I'm sure you won't forget my contribution."

"Hahaha."

Zhong Yao burst into laughter, pointing at Liu Feng with his right hand and saying, "Zisheng, those tens of thousands of soldiers you have in Luozhong are like tens of thousands of crouching tigers."

Liu Feng also laughed and cupped his hands, saying, "This Crouching Tiger is not the same as that Crouching Tiger. I will still need Brother Yuanchang to take good care of me in the future."

Zhong Yao nodded first, then said meaningfully, "This position is not easy to hold. If I were to take it, I wouldn't be able to stay for long without reliable people, let alone take care of you, my brother."

Liu Feng, understanding the implied meaning from the music, immediately said generously, "Brother Yuanchang, what are you worried about? I have selected five hundred elite soldiers from the army to serve as your personal guard. I believe that all sides will give you some face."

Upon hearing this, Zhong Yao was overjoyed. He never expected that Liu Feng would not only stand up for him but also lend him troops.

However, Liu Feng then made a demand: not only must the emperor approve Cao Cao's and Liu Feng's memorial recommending Yuan Shao as Grand Marshal, but he must also agree to Xiahou Dun's appointment as Governor of Henan.

Neither of these conditions is unreasonable. The Commandant of the Capital Region is the direct superior of the Governor of Henan. The Emperor originally wanted to become the Governor of Henan, but now he has the opportunity to become the Commandant of the Capital Region. This deal seems like a huge win no matter how you look at it.

"can."

Zhong Yao pondered for a moment before nodding in agreement: "However, Zisheng needs to give me three days. I still have some things to do."

Liu Feng understood that Zhong Yao was going to visit the officials with whom he had close ties; otherwise, he couldn't very well let the military men nominate Zhong Yao for the position of Commandant of the Capital Region.

Moreover, the matter of Xiahou Dun taking over as Governor of Henan required mediation from others; Zhong Yao couldn't be involved in everything himself.

That evening, Zhong Yao visited several allies in succession.

The next day, Liu Feng went to the palace again to meet the emperor.

However, this time was different from before. Liu Feng was accompanied by Han Xian, and the emperor had many more people around him, such as Grand Commandant Yang Biao, Minister of Works Zhao Wen, Minister of Public Works Guo Gong, and Grand Master of the Palace Han Rong.

"Your Majesty, the General is trying to harm me!"

As soon as he entered the palace, Han Xian knelt down with a thud and burst into tears before the emperor, crying, "Your Majesty, please save my life!"

Emperor Liu Xie was initially taken aback, but then a mixture of tension, anticipation, and secret joy welled up in his heart.

"Han Qing, do not panic. Tell us all the grievances you have."

The emperor's voice was somewhat loud, and as he spoke, he glanced at Liu Feng, who respectfully stood with his hands at his sides.

After receiving the emperor's approval, Han Xian immediately poured out his grievances, mainly recounting how Cao Cao coveted his position as Commandant of the Capital Region and thus framed him.

At the same time, Han Xian also admitted that he had a bad temper and acted rashly, which was quite questionable. However, he believed that he was a subject of the emperor and that whatever punishment he was punished by the emperor was what he deserved. But he could not bear being framed by the general.

The emperor became more and more excited as he listened. He had always had a certain goodwill towards Han Xian and his White Wave Army and had been trying to win them over, hoping to turn them into his own faction. Now, seeing that Han Xian had actually taken the initiative to bow down to him and even asked him to stand up for him, he was even more excited.

This is real progress.

"Han Qing, why worry so much? The General's words may have been a bit harsh, but they were for the sake of the country and its people. Besides, haven't I already issued an edict pardoning your crimes? Why bring up old matters again?"

At this point, Emperor Liu Xie glanced at Liu Feng and casually said, "You also brought Liu Jianzhong here. You should know that General Jianzhong has only been back in Luoyang for a few days. He has been fighting for a long time, wearing armor and sleeping on his pillow. He is exhausted and should be resting now. But you are disturbing his peace and quiet."

"Your Majesty has treated me with utmost care and consideration; I am deeply grateful."

Liu Feng also spoke up at the opportune moment: "However, this matter involves the Grand General, and I dare not be negligent, so I have come to the palace to request an audience with Your Majesty."

Emperor Liu Xie was quite satisfied with Liu Feng's attitude and nodded repeatedly: "What brilliant strategies does Jianzhong have? Please tell me."

Liu Feng replied, "This plan was devised by Han Zhengdong. Please allow His Majesty to hear his explanation."

Liu Xie paused for a moment, then turned his gaze to Han Xian before nodding: "Very well, then please let Minister Han speak."

"Thank you, Your Majesty!"

Han Xian bowed deeply again and then said, "Your Majesty, I am but a military man. I am fortunate to be able to protect the Emperor by your side, thanks to your gracious favor. However, I am only a military man from the borderlands. I am not knowledgeable in government affairs, nor do I understand literature. My abilities are insufficient."

At this point, Han Xian paused, then raised his voice and said, "Your Majesty, I request to resign from my position as Commandant of the Capital Region and earnestly request that Your Majesty select another capable person!"

"Han Qing, are you resigning?"

Liu Xie was surprised again. In the past, these warriors of the White Wave Army would only complain about their low rank and few positions. When did these people learn to be humble, understand their own shortcomings, and know to step down and give way to more capable people?

"Exactly!"

Han Xian said righteously and solemnly, "Your Majesty has been so tolerant and generous to me. How can I remain a mere figurehead? I am willing to give way to the virtuous and capable."

"Are you referring to those who hold positions without performing their duties?"

Liu Xie was in a great mood and even pointed out the fallacy in Han Xian's words.

Han Xian blushed. These were words that Liu Feng had made him memorize, and he had put a lot of effort into remembering them, but he still made a mistake in the end.

Liu Xie laughed at Han Xian's embarrassment, but he quickly regained his composure under Yang Biao's gaze.

"I am well aware of Han Qing's intentions. In that case, I will remove Han Qing from his post as Commandant of the Capital Region."

Liu Xie continued, "I deeply admire Han Qing's loyalty to the emperor and his love for the country. Han Qing's courtesy and deference to the virtuous and capable will surely be a widely praised story."

Han Xian continued to bow and said, "Your Majesty's great kindness is deeply appreciated by your subject."

Liu Xie was very satisfied and felt quite pleased with himself.

But before he could fully enjoy this unfamiliar yet exhilarating feeling, Liu Feng's words broke his reverie.

"Your Majesty, the position of Commandant of the Capital Region is probably quite a hot potato."

Liu Xie felt a tremor in his heart, as if a familiar feeling had returned.

This time, however, it wasn't the Xiliang warriors and the White Wave Army that gave him this feeling, but rather the seemingly loyal Liu Feng before him.

Liu Xie opened his mouth as if to ask Liu Feng what he meant, but he opened and closed his mouth several times and in the end he still couldn't get the question out.

Grand Commandant Yang Biao, who was standing to the side, could not stand it any longer. He presumptuously questioned, "What does Liu Jianzhong mean by this? How did an official position in the court become so hot to handle?"

Liu Feng hurriedly apologized, saying, "Your Majesty, I misspoke. I only have a matter to ask for Your Majesty's leniency."

Liu Xie had recovered by now, but still said somewhat awkwardly in a low voice, "What does Minister Liu mean? Please explain in detail."

Liu Feng looked up at the emperor and said earnestly, "What I am worried about is the Grand General."

"The other day, I visited the General on the matter of Yingchuan and was treated to a banquet by the General. During the banquet, the General asked me to help him obtain the position of Commandant of the Capital Region. That is why I felt compelled to speak out."

Liu Feng, without hesitation, sowed discord between Liu Xie and Cao Cao.

Could there be anything that would make Liu Feng happier than letting Cao Cao take the blame and doing his own thing?
(End of this chapter)