Great Song Dynasty Writer

Chapter 356 A Tumultuous Spring
After reading several memorials from Hebei, Zhao Zhen rubbed his temples and then gently placed the military report about the Liao Kingdom on a corner of his desk.

The weariness that had been building up over the past few days was like the dark clouds that were gradually gathering outside the Fu Ning Palace, pressing down heavily.

He dismissed the palace servants who were standing by, leaving Deng Xuanyan to wait quietly in the distance, while he strolled out of the palace gate.

It looks like it's going to rain outside.

The cool breeze, carrying the scent of earth, slightly dispelled the stagnation in his chest.

After walking west for a while, he unknowingly found himself near the Tianzhang Pavilion again.

Although it was daytime, the lights were still on in the duty room, and Yang Anguo was bent over his desk collating the classics.

"cough"

Hearing the commotion, he looked up and saw that it was the Emperor himself. He quickly got up to greet him, his face instantly filled with a delighted smile.

"Your Majesty was unaware of your arrival and has failed to greet you properly."

"Never mind." Zhao Zhen waved his hand casually and sat down in his usual armchair, looking languid. "I have some things on my mind and can't make up my mind. I thought it would be quiet here with Minister Yang, so I came to sit for a while."

Yang Anguo was incredibly astute. While skillfully serving tea to the emperor, he bowed and smiled, saying, "Your Majesty's divine authority will resolve this matter. Any worries will be cleared up in a moment."

Zhao Zhen snorted but did not reply, though his tense shoulders and neck visibly relaxed a bit.

Zhao Zhen accepted the hot tea offered by Yang Anguo, but did not drink it, instead staring blankly at the rising steam.

After a long silence, he slowly spoke, his voice filled with worry: "A report from Hebei Province states that Xiongzhou, Bazhou, and other places have experienced earthquakes for several days, causing considerable damage to cities and houses. Minister Yang, you are well-versed in divination and prophecy; what do you think of this omen?"

Yang Anguo pondered for a moment, then said in a calm tone, “Your Majesty, the ‘Treatise on the Five Elements’ states, ‘The earth is the accumulation of yin and governs stillness. If there is an earthquake, it is because yin is hidden and cannot emerge, or because yin is forced and cannot enter. When yin and yang clash, the earth shakes.’ Thus, celestial signs can also be seen in human affairs. I humbly believe that the omen of an earthquake may be related to criminal cases. The stagnation of yin energy is like an unjust case that has not been addressed, which accumulates and causes an earthquake. Your Majesty may send an envoy to investigate the criminal cases in Hebei Province. If there are any wrongful convictions, they should be swiftly overturned. This may move Heaven and bring peace to the people.”

"You are right."

Zhao Zhen's gaze narrowed slightly. After a moment of contemplation, he nodded: "I will follow your suggestion and send someone to Hebei tomorrow to investigate the criminal cases and redress the injustices."

Zhao Zhen paused, then remembered something else.

"Furthermore, Xiongzhou also reported that a major earthquake struck Youzhou within Liao territory overnight, injuring tens of thousands of people and severely damaging the city walls. The Liao emperor is newly enthroned and young and impetuous. I fear he may use this to create trouble and shift the burden of domestic problems. Therefore, I intend to issue an edict ordering Hebei Circuit to secretly strengthen border defenses to prevent any unforeseen events. In addition, I plan to appoint Zhao Ernan, a surrendered Khitan, as the Military Advisor of Caizhou, and Ma Xi as a Tea and Wine Attendant, and grant each of them two qing of land as a gesture of appeasement. What does Minister Yang think?"

"Your Majesty's wisdom is profound!"

Upon hearing this, Yang Anguo's expression turned solemn, and he solemnly said, "The new ruler of Liao has just ascended the throne, and his temperament is still unknown. Now that Youzhou has been greatly shaken, he may indeed take risks. Our dynasty should strengthen its vigilance to be prepared for any eventuality. As for treating those who have surrendered well and ensuring that they are all given a place, this can also demonstrate our dynasty's benevolence and serve as a 'backbone.' In short, we must not be without vigilance, but we must not abandon the strategy of appeasement. Your Majesty's actions are very appropriate, combining both firmness and leniency."

After hearing this, Zhao Zhen lowered his head and remained silent for a while before looking up at Yang Anguo: "Minister Yang, I remember you said last time that you wanted to put Lu Beigu in the Imperial Academy to cultivate his reputation?"

Yang Anguo's hand holding the teapot paused slightly, then he said, "Your Majesty has a good memory! I do indeed have this foolish opinion."

He put down the teapot, bowed, and took two steps forward.

"Your Majesty, look at Lu Beigu. At the tender age of eighteen, he has already achieved the highest honors in the imperial examinations. How many people in our dynasty have possessed such extraordinary talent since the founding of our dynasty? If such a promising talent is simply left to serve in the local military or prefectures, although he may hone his practical skills, he may become confined to trivial matters and lose his edge. It would be better to temporarily place him in a high-ranking position, such as in the Imperial Academy to study classics, or in the Imperial Library to proofread secret texts, or even as an advisor to the Dragon Pavilion or Heavenly Chapter Pavilion, so that he can immerse himself in the vast collection of books within the palace. Only in this way can he gain insight into the workings of the court and receive Your Majesty's sagacity. Once his knowledge has deepened and his character has broadened, he can be entrusted with real responsibilities and will surely be able to share Your Majesty's burdens."

He paused slightly, observing the Emperor's expression. Seeing that the Emperor did not interrupt, he continued, "Moreover, although the positions in the Imperial Academy are considered prestigious, they are truly places for nurturing talent. If Your Majesty bestows this favor, it will not only be for the sake of Lu Beigu alone, but will also demonstrate to the world that the court is so eager for talent. This will surely boost morale and make talented people from all directions yearn for it."

The term "Guange" in the Song Dynasty refers to the "Three Halls" and "Three Pavilions".

The so-called "three halls" refer to Zhaowen Hall, History Hall, and Jixian Hall, while the "three pavilions" refer to Secret Pavilion, Dragon Map Pavilion, and Heavenly Chapter Pavilion.

The main functions of the Imperial Library were to be responsible for the preservation and organization of the library's collection, as well as academic research, compiling national history, and drafting imperial edicts.

Although such positions have little real power, one can gain substantial merit and prestige through compiling history. Moreover, compared to other positions, they are closer to the government, essentially providing access to "risk-free political resources." These are undoubtedly prestigious and prestigious positions, which normally have no chance of being entered by newly appointed scholars.

"The Imperial Academy is a prestigious institution for selecting the most outstanding scholars and officials, and many have wasted years trying to gain entry."

After a long pause, Zhao Zhen slowly spoke: "Although Lu Beigu is talented, he is still young. If he is promoted to this position suddenly, I am afraid he will not be able to win people's hearts. Moreover, his teacher is Song Xiang. Although Song Xiang is retired, his students and old friends are all over the court. If I promote him too much, I am afraid it will attract attention and is not the way to protect him."

Yang Anguo's heart sank slightly, knowing that the Emperor had deep concerns, but he was still unwilling to give up. He earnestly said, "Your Majesty's considerations are thorough. However, Lu Beigu's talent is truly like unpolished jade and unpolished gold. With a little polishing, he will surely shine. As for public opinion, Your Majesty's wise decision and discerning eye have made him a gem. Scholars throughout the land can only admire Your Majesty's wisdom. How could they have any other words? Moreover, placing him in the Imperial Academy would put him under Your Majesty's watchful eye, allowing for constant guidance and instruction. This would also help him to repay kindness and cultivate his integrity. Wouldn't this be more prudent than letting him roam freely?"

Zhao Zhen listened quietly, his fingers tapping lightly on his knees.

Although Yang Anguo's words were not without his own selfish motives of advocating for the Imperial Academy and recruiting his own followers, his talk of "cultivating talent" did indeed hit the nail on the head regarding his own considerations.

With the court in turmoil and factional strife raging, Emperor Zhao Zhen truly needed to cultivate young officials who were loyal to him and capable, as his future pillars of support.

Zhao Zhen gazed intently at the increasingly dense rain outside the window. After a long while, he said calmly, "What you say is not without reason."

He stayed in Tianzhang Pavilion for a while before returning to Funing Palace.

Zhao Zhen did not rest immediately. Instead, he instructed Deng Xuanyan: "Go and find the 'Map of the Khitan' and the ten volumes of 'Miscellaneous Records' that Zhao Zhizhong, the prefect of Huangzhou, presented last year. I want to take a look."

"Yes," Deng Xuanyan replied and left.

Zhao Zhizhong returned to the Song Dynasty in August of the first year of the Qingli era. He had served as a secretary in the Liao Dynasty and concurrently as a historian. He was very familiar with the geography, customs, and military and political affairs of the Liao Dynasty.

With the earthquake in Hebei and the new Liao emperor's ascension, the situation in the north is unstable, and the emperor is clearly considering taking precautions against a Liao invasion.

Soon, Deng Xuanyan found these documents in the Jiazi No. 3 book in the Fu Ning Hall.

Emperor Zhao Zhen slowly unfolded the "Map of Khitan" presented by Zhao Zhizhong on his imperial desk.

The map is detailed with the mountains and rivers, prefectures, counties, and military towns marked, and even some important Liao Dynasty garrison locations.

He casually flipped through a few pages of the "Miscellaneous Notes," which contained secrets of the Liao court, tribal conflicts, and the strength of the military. Although these were old news from many years ago, they still had reference value.

"This Zhao Zhizhong is quite a thoughtful person."

Zhao Zhen murmured, his gaze lingering on the Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun on the map for a long time.

The Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun, also known as the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun, geographically refer to the area south of the Great Wall, including Beijing, northern Hebei, and northern Shanxi.

Due to the division between the Taihang Mountains and the Great Wall, the prefectures of You, Ji, Ying, Mo, Zhuo, Tan, and Shun are located on the plains and are known as the "Seven Prefectures in Front of the Mountains"; while the prefectures of Xin, Gui, Ru, Wu, Wei, Yun, Ying, Huan, and Shuo are located in the mountains and are known as the "Nine Prefectures Behind the Mountains".

Topographically, the Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun, encompassing the northern foothills of the Yinshan, Yanshan, and Taihang Mountains, form a natural Great Wall. Its high elevation and strategic location make it easy to defend and difficult to attack, and it has historically served as a strategic barrier for the Han people to resist the southward incursions of northern nomadic tribes.

Unfortunately, during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period, Shi Jingtang of the Later Jin Dynasty willingly became a puppet emperor, ceding this vast territory to the Khitans in exchange for their support. The Khitans gained control of the Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun, which not only greatly enhanced their national strength but also gave them strategic initiative.

Although the Han people later made several attempts to reclaim the Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun, Chai Rong died of illness before his northern expedition was completed, and Zhao Guangyi left behind the regret of the Gaoliang River. Therefore, the Sixteen Prefectures of Youyun are still in the hands of the Khitan people to this day.

The Liao Kingdom is now also experiencing a strong earthquake, with cities and towns damaged and civilians suffering heavy casualties. This is undoubtedly a huge test for Yelü Hongji, the Liao emperor who has just ascended the throne and whose power base is not yet stable.

External threats can often divert attention from internal conflicts. Zhao Zhen was well aware of this principle. He worried that the young and ambitious new ruler of Liao would take risks and use the invasion of the south to consolidate his power and shift the crisis.

After carefully studying the map for a while, Zhao Zhen spoke.

"Deng Xuanyan, convey my oral decree, summon Privy Councilors Jia Changchao and Han Qi to the palace immediately for a meeting."

"Yes."

The emperor didn't have to wait long before the Privy Councilor Jia Changchao and Han Qi arrived one after the other.

Jia Changchao's hair and beard were already graying, and he was slightly overweight. He wore a purple robe, while Han Qi was in his prime, with a calm demeanor and a resolute look between his brows.

"I have read the military report forwarded by the Privy Council. There was an earthquake in Youzhou, and the Khitans seem to be mobilizing troops. Although they have not explicitly targeted our dynasty, their intentions are unpredictable, and we must be on guard."

Han Qi, holding his official tablet, bowed first and answered in a steady voice: "Your Majesty is wise. According to the report from the Hebei Border Patrol Office, the people of Youzhou are devastated after the earthquake and urgently need disaster relief. It is unlikely that the Liao army will launch a large-scale invasion southward in the short term. However, there has been an increase in small groups of cavalry crossing the border to spy and harass. The Privy Council has issued a document to the prefectures in Hebei, ordering them to strengthen the defense of fortresses and villages, improve military preparedness, strictly investigate spies, and order the navy to be more vigilant in the Hedian area to prevent any unforeseen events."

Zhao Zhen nodded slightly, then turned his gaze to Jia Changchao: "What does Minister Jia think?"

Jia Changchao stepped forward, his voice booming: "Your Majesty, I believe that we cannot merely remain passively defensive against the Liao Kingdom. The Liao's new ruler is young and his power is unstable; it is precisely at this time of weakness that our dynasty should demonstrate strength to deter their ambitions. I suggest that we order the armies of the border prefectures along the Hebei border to conduct large-scale military exercises at an opportune time, showcasing our military prowess and letting the Liao Kingdom know that our border defenses are formidable, thus deterring them from rash actions. At the same time, we should secretly instruct our border generals that if they encounter small groups of Liao cavalry crossing the border, they should retaliate, capture the ringleaders, and display their heads as a warning to others! Only in this way can we demonstrate our national power and force the Liao Kingdom to back down."

Upon hearing this, Han Qi frowned slightly and retorted, "Prime Minister Jia, while a show of force might temporarily intimidate the enemy, it could also backfire and escalate border conflicts. Moreover, the Hebei garrison has just suffered from floods and has not engaged in major battles for many years. Its combat strength is still unknown. If the training is not conducted carefully, it could expose weaknesses or lead to a failed counterattack, resulting in losses of soldiers and generals. Wouldn't that only damage the prestige of the nation? I believe that for now, we should focus on maintaining a stable defense, reinforcing the city's defenses, observing the situation, and waiting for the internal situation of Liao to become clear before deciding on our course of action."

Jia Changchao snorted coldly, his gaze sweeping over Han Qi: "Prime Minister Han is being far too cautious! Have you not heard the saying, 'To show weakness invites humiliation'? If our dynasty continues to be submissive, the Khitans will surely think that our dynasty is easy to bully, and their encroachment will only intensify! Only by showing strength to the enemy can we gain peace. As for the border troops' combat strength, it is precisely through such opportunities that we can hone it! If we shrink back for fear of defeat, how can we maintain the morale of the army?"

The two held differing opinions, and a debate ensued.

Jia Changchao advocated a hardline stance, believing that only by flexing its muscles could it deter the Liao Kingdom; Han Qi, on the other hand, insisted on a defensive posture, advocating avoiding unnecessary conflicts and focusing on accumulating national strength.

Zhao Zhen listened quietly, without rushing to express his opinion.

The two men held differing political views, so this argument was expected and even something he was happy to see. It would have made him uneasy if the two privy councilors had been completely of one mind.

"Let's put the northern affairs aside for now and give me some time to think it over before making a decision."

After the two had finished speaking, he slowly changed the subject.

"The dispute over the Quye River in Linzhou is being pursued relentlessly by the Xia Kingdom's envoys, and the border standoff is escalating daily. What countermeasures do you have?"

Mentioning the Western Xia, Jia Changchao's spirits suddenly lifted: "Your Majesty, the Xia chieftain Liangzuo is young and inexperienced, and the government is controlled by Mozang Epang. This traitor murdered the emperor and usurped power, and the people's hearts are not yet with him. He urgently needs to exert his power externally to consolidate his position, hence his relentless pressure at the Quye River, intending to provoke us! I observe that his actions are all bark and no bite. If our dynasty shows weakness, he will surely take advantage of us. Therefore, the best course of action now is to meet force with force!"

"Pang Ji, residing in Hedong, has been solely focused on avoiding battle, allowing the territory to shrink daily and the border people to suffer humiliation. This is truly cowardly and a disservice to the country! I suggest that we secretly order the valiant troops of Lin and Fu prefectures to select the strongest soldiers, cross the Quye River, and launch a surprise attack on their strongholds on the east bank, burning their crops, destroying their camps, and reclaiming the former territory on the west bank! At the same time, we should send envoys to sternly rebuke the Xia state, ordering them not to cross the line again! Only in this way can we resolve the border dispute once and for all!"

"Minister Jia is mistaken! Absolutely not!"

Han Qi's face darkened, and he immediately spoke up to stop them: "The terrain on both sides of the Quye River is open, and the Xia army's cavalry can move swiftly. If our army rashly crosses the river to attack, even if we win, we will only be able to recover a few miles of farmland; if we lose, we may face the annihilation of our entire army! General Pang has been on the border for many years and is familiar with the enemy's situation. His cautious strategy is to conserve troops for the country and avoid falling into the trap of luring the enemy deep into our territory! The Xia army is eager for our main force to leave their stronghold so that they can take advantage of their cavalry and annihilate our main force in open battle. At that time, it may not just be the loss of the Quye River, but also the danger to Linzhou and Fuzhou!"

He turned to the throne, his words earnest: “Your Majesty, I have served as the strategist of Shaanxi for many years and am well aware of the Xia army’s fighting strength, especially their cavalry, which should not be underestimated. Our army excels in defending cities but is weak in open field battles. The current strategy should be as General Pang suggested: firmly defend the fortresses, strengthen patrols, and strike back against small groups of Xia harassment, but never easily launch a large-scale invasion. At the same time, we can engage in diplomatic maneuvering with them, exploiting their internal conflicts to divide and weaken them. Mozang Epang’s position is not yet stable; if we delay any longer, internal strife will inevitably arise. Time is on our side, not theirs!”

"Why does Privy Councilor Han have to boost the morale of others while diminishing his own? Could it be that the defeat at Haoshuichuan back then has completely dampened his spirits?"

Upon hearing this, Jia Changchao's face showed a mocking expression: "If we blindly defend according to Han Shumi's advice, wouldn't we be handing over the fertile land west of Quye River? What will become of the morale of the border generals? What will become of the dignity of our nation? Mozang Epang is so arrogant precisely because he has taken advantage of our nation's fear of war! Only by striking head-on can we break his spine!"

"Jia Changchao! You—"

Han Qi's expression changed drastically. The defeat at Haoshuichuan was a hidden pain in his heart, and when Jia Changchao brought it up to his face, his anger surged.

"enough!"

On the throne, Zhao Zhen gave a low shout, which, though not loud, instantly suppressed the conflict in the hall.

The two immediately bowed and said in unison, "We have been disrespectful and beg Your Majesty's forgiveness."

Zhao Zhen took a deep breath to suppress his agitation.

How could he not know that Jia Changchao advocated war, harboring the selfish motive of consolidating his power and suppressing political enemies through border achievements? And how could he not understand that Han Qi advocated defense, based on a clear understanding of the military strength comparison between Song and Xia?

After a long silence, Zhao Zhen slowly said, "Regarding the Liaodong matter, for now, we will follow Han Qi's advice and focus on maintaining stability and strengthening vigilance to avoid provoking any border conflicts. As for the Xia matter, I have ordered Pang Ji to strengthen the defenses of Linzhou and Fuzhou. Those Xia soldiers who cross the border to plunder may be punished as appropriate, but they must not actively cross the river to provoke conflict. In addition, I have informed the Xia envoy that there should be no further unreasonable entanglements regarding the border demarcation. If an agreement cannot be reached before the Xia dynasty, I will ban the border markets and cut off their source of profit."

This approach, while maintaining a balance, neither adopted Jia Changchao's aggressive offensive strategy nor fully endorsed Han Qi's all-out defensive stance, but instead incorporated limited assertiveness into the defensive posture.

Without waiting for the two Grand Councilors to say anything more, Zhao Zhen waved his hand, his weariness even more pronounced.

"Step down. As Privy Councilors, you should prioritize national affairs, work together with one heart and one mind, and refrain from engaging in pointless disputes."

"I'm waiting to retire."

Jia Changchao and Han Qi bowed and withdrew from the Chuigong Hall.

Outside the hall, the spring rain continued to drizzle, hitting the steps and splashing up tiny droplets.

With the help of eunuchs holding umbrellas, the two walked silently along the palace road, one in front of the other.

The western and northern borders of the Song Dynasty maintained a fragile and tense balance, while the undercurrents in the imperial court were far more turbulent and complex than the situation on the border.

The hall fell silent again, with only the occasional soft crackling of candlelight popping.

Zhao Zhen sat alone on the imperial couch, gazing at the flickering flames.

The earthquake in the north, the standoff in the west, the factional strife in the court, and the depletion of the national treasury—a myriad of problems weighed on him like heavy, dark clouds outside the palace, making it hard for him to breathe.

"A turbulent spring indeed."

Zhao Zhen murmured to himself, his voice so soft that only he could hear it.

(End of this chapter)