Song Xiu

Chapter 102 Deceiving the Emperor with False Words Leads to Re-entry and Worry
After returning to his residence and changing into his official robes, Zhao Dexiu, led by the imperial eunuch, traveled from outside the imperial city to the Hall of Ten Thousand Years.

Upon entering the Wansui Hall, Zhao Dexiu noticed that several ministers were already inside.

Zhao Dexiu's gaze swept over Zhao Pu and the others, finally landing on Zhao Guangyi.

In recent days, to celebrate the great victory, imperial edicts of reward and honor have been issued one after another in Kaifeng.

While bestowing rewards upon his officials, Zhao Kuangyin also formally conferred titles and honors upon members of the imperial clan.

"Zhao Guangyi was appointed Marquis of Donghai Commandery, and Zhao Guangmei was appointed Marquis of Tianshui Commandery."

This award alone is enough to show that Zhao Guangmei was born of the legitimate wife.

Since Zhao Kuangyin became emperor, he attached great importance to etiquette and law in order to consolidate the new dynasty's power and reverse the trend of the Five Dynasties.

There is a distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children; they cannot be granted titles at the same time.

As for the later legend that Zhao Guangmei was born to a concubine, that was a smear campaign by Zhao Guangyi.

Coincidentally, Zhao Guangyi also deliberately maintained a vague attitude regarding Zhao Defang's status as the legitimate son.

That's his character.
As Zhao Dexiu's gaze swept across the room, the eyes of all the officials in the hall also fell upon him.

After the officials paid their respects to Zhao Dexiu, some remained standing while others came forward to greet him.

"King of Taiyuan, Li Chongjin of Huainan has rebelled."

Zhao Pu spoke first to Zhao Dexiu.

After Zhao Pu finished speaking, Lü Yuqing coughed a few times and then continued:

“Li Chongjin’s rebellion at the end of summer is truly malicious.”

Late summer and early autumn have always been the peak season for transporting grain from the Huaihe River region to Kaifeng via the Grand Canal.

The crucial information provided by the two senior officials prompted Zhao Dexiu to reflect.

In contrast to the concerns of the two senior officials, Zhao Dexiu said with ease:

"It doesn't matter.

If Li Chongjin had raised an army earlier and advanced together with Li Jun from the north and south, that would have been a great threat to the country.

Now that Li Jun has been defeated, Li Chongjin is alone and cannot shoulder the burden; he will hardly amount to anything.

Zhao Dexiu's comforting words eased some of the worry on the faces of Zhao Pu and Lü Yuqing.

If Zhao Dexiu had said these words in the past, many people would have thought he was arrogant and ignorant.

However, things are different now.

Today, Zhao Dexiu has already earned the qualifications to be relied upon by the court officials.

Compared to Li Chongjin, Zhao Dexiu is more concerned about Lü Yuqing's health at the moment.

Lü Yuqing is currently the Prefect of Kaifeng. If he passes away, the position of Prefect of Kaifeng will be vacant.

Zhao Dexiu had little interest in the position of Prefect of Kaifeng.

However, even if he had no interest, it was still necessary to place some trusted confidants in Kaifeng Prefecture.

While Zhao Dexiu was pondering this, several more ministers arrived in the hall.

Once all the ministers had arrived, at the call of the eunuch Wang Ji'en, the ministers in the hall stood up in order of their rank.

Zhao Dexiu rightfully stood at the head of all the ministers.

After all the ministers had taken their places, Zhao Kuangyin sat down on the throne in the hall.

As soon as he sat down, Zhao Kuangyin hurriedly said:
"The Huainan region has rebelled. What do you think we should do about it?"

Li Chongjin's rebellion did not cause Zhao Kuangyin any worry or fear; he was simply annoyed.

After returning to the capital, he was already extremely busy with the new policies and the bestowal of titles.

In the midst of all this busyness, Li Chongjin still had to interfere, which was as annoying as a fly.

Zhao Kuangyin's words marked the beginning of his strategic planning for the "rebellion in Huainan".

As Sun Tzu's Art of War states: "He who wins a battle before it is fought has many advantages; he who loses a battle before it is fought has few advantages."

There had been plans during Li Jun's rebellion, but Zhao Dexiu was not qualified to participate at that time.

Now Zhao Dexiu not only has to participate, but also be the first to speak.

Seeing Zhao Kuangyin turn his gaze towards him, Zhao Dexiu stepped forward, holding his ceremonial tablet, and said:
"Li Chongjin controls seven prefectures in Huainan. Although he has well-trained troops and ample supplies, the only concern in this battle is that Li Chongjin may form an alliance with the Southern Tang."

As soon as Zhao Dexiu uttered his first sentence, the officials in the hall nodded repeatedly.

Since Emperor Shizong of Zhou reformed the imperial guards, the power of any single regional military governor has been unable to threaten the security of the central government.

However, the world is not yet unified. A single regional military governor is not a threat, but if they ally with foreign enemies, the situation will be different.

As soon as Zhao Dexiu finished speaking, Zhao Kuangyin nodded and said:

“What the King of Taiyuan said makes sense.”

"Then, in your opinion, how should I respond?"

When Zhao Kuangyin asked him, Zhao Dexiu continued:

"At the beginning of the year, when the Great Song Dynasty was newly established, His Majesty sent an envoy to Jiangning Prefecture to deliver a letter of state to Li Jing, the ruler of the Southern Tang Dynasty, instructing him to declare to the world that the Southern Tang Dynasty was a vassal state of our Great Song Dynasty."

To date, Li Jing has not responded.

Your Majesty, I believe it would be better to send an envoy to Jiangning to condemn Li Jing and to ascertain the true state of Southern Tang.

When Emperor Shizong of Zhou was in power, he launched three campaigns against Huainan, which made the Southern Tang cry out in despair. Left with no other choice, Li Jing had to relinquish his imperial title and call himself the ruler of the Southern Tang, which then became a vassal state of the Great Zhou.

Now that the Song Dynasty has inherited the Zhou Dynasty's rule, legally speaking, the Song Dynasty should be the new suzerain state of the Southern Tang.

After Zhao Dexiu made his suggestion, Zhao Kuangyin turned to his ministers and asked:
What do you all think of what the Prince of Taiyuan said?

Upon hearing Zhao Kuangyin's words, the ministers exchanged bewildered glances.

This temple is practically turning into a temple for you two, father and son.

Despite having this opinion, Zhao Dexiu's words were indeed reasonable, and the ministers naturally had no objections.

"I second the proposal."

Seeing that none of the ministers objected, Zhao Kuangyin then spoke:

"The matter of the mission shall be handled entirely by the Prince of Taiyuan."

After discussing the potential threat of the Huainan rebellion, it's time to discuss the specifics of sending troops.

"Who is willing to lead troops to quell Li Chongjin's rebellion?"

Historically, Zhao Kuangyin personally led the campaign against Li Chongjin's rebellion.

However, times changed, and after having a son, Zhao Kuangyin was able to devote all his energy to the new policies.

As soon as Zhao Kuangyin finished speaking, all the ministers began to look down at their noses and their minds.

Every court official who could participate in the strategic planning was a shrewd and capable person.

From Zhao Kuangyin's various arrangements for Zhao Dexiu, it was not difficult for the officials to guess that Zhao Kuangyin wanted to imitate the story of the early Tang Dynasty.

The emperor oversaw the overall situation from within the palace, while the imperial family fought across the land from without, together securing the stability of the Song Dynasty.

Knowing this intention, and knowing that Zhao Kuangyin was just going through the motions, who would actively vie for the position of commander-in-chief?
To the surprise of the ministers, there were still some people.

Just as the ministers remained silent, and Zhao Kuangyin was about to directly appoint the commander, Zhao Guangyi, who had been silent all along, suddenly entered the hall:
"Your subject is willing to lead the troops there!"

As soon as Zhao Guangyi said this, regardless of the reactions of the other officials, Zhao Dexiu immediately turned to look at him.

Car God, stop messing around.

While the courtiers were astonished, Zhao Kuangyin also frowned.

However, since he was the younger brother whom Zhao Kuangyin had doted on since childhood, he did not directly deny Zhao Guangyi's right.

"Let's stop here for today's meeting."

The Marquis of Donghai Commandery remained.

As soon as Zhao Kuangyin said this, all the officials dispersed.

Before leaving, Zhao Dexiu gave Zhao Guangyi a deep look.

Once only the two brothers remained in the hall, a puzzled voice came from the throne:

Why did you suddenly decide to lead troops into battle?

The new policies are about to begin, and I need you to stay in the capital to assist me.

Zhao Kuangyin watched Zhao Guangyi grow up from childhood, and he had deep feelings for Zhao Guangyi.

In addition, Zhao Guangyi was very capable, and in Zhao Kuangyin's mind, Zhao Guangyi's importance was second only to Zhao Dexiu.

Zhao Guangyi remained calm in the face of Zhao Kuangyin's question. He had anticipated this question from Zhao Kuangyin as early as when he was planning the expedition to Huainan.

As for how to perfectly answer this question, Zhao Guangyi already had a plan in mind.

"I am acting in the best interests of the Song Dynasty and also for the sake of the Prince of Taiyuan."

Zhao Guangyi's words successfully caught Zhao Kuangyin's attention.

"Why?"

When he asked this question, Zhao Kuangyin had already walked up to Zhao Guangyi.

The yellow robe, a symbol of supreme power, was right before Zhao Guangyi's eyes, which not only put pressure on him but also fueled his growing ambition.

As members of the same Zhao family, why should he be the only one to inherit this yellow robe?

Although he thought this in his heart, Zhao Guangyi said aloud:

"Your Majesty's strategic vision is such that if you wish to consolidate the foundation of the Song Dynasty, you must first strengthen the imperial family."

In times of chaos, members of the imperial family need to be skilled in both literature and martial arts in order to govern the four directions for His Majesty.

Examples include Li Xiaogong, Li Daozong, and Li Shentong in the early Tang Dynasty.

Pointing this out is enough to allow one's self-recommendation to be labeled as "considering the interests of the Song Dynasty."

Zhao Guangyi's first explanation made Zhao Kuangyin nod in agreement.

Zhao Kuangyin was very pleased that Zhao Guangyi had this realization.

"Your Majesty also knows that you intend to establish the Prince of Taiyuan as your heir."

When he said this, Zhao Kuangyin's expression changed slightly, but he did not deny it.

When Zhao Dexiu became the first prince of the royal family, many people could see his intentions, including Zhao Guangyi.

“The Prince of Taiyuan is exceptionally talented and is indeed a good choice for the crown prince.”

Zhao Guangyi expressed his support for Zhao Kuangyin's choice in a "sincere" tone.

Zhao Kuangyin smiled upon hearing Zhao Guangyi's support.

A united and harmonious family is something every emperor desires to see.

"However, the Prince of Taiyuan has made achievements in military affairs, but he has no reputation in civil administration."

Moreover, the marriage of the Prince of Taiyuan is approaching. As the heir apparent of the country, he needs to have children and prosper. How can this be delayed?

The turmoil in Huainan is unlikely to harm the foundation of the nation; why should the Prince of Taiyuan personally intervene?
Now that the nation is in the early stages of a new era, a time of rebuilding and restoration, Your Majesty should keep the Prince of Taiyuan by your side to provide careful guidance.

When the war to destroy the country comes in the future, we can let the King of Taiyuan lead the expedition.

Your Majesty is like King Wu of Zhou, and I am willing to be like the Duke of Zhou, safeguarding the eternal foundation of the Song Dynasty.

As he finished speaking, seemingly touching upon his deepest, most "sincere" desires, Zhao Guangyi's voice became slightly choked with emotion.

This outburst of emotion deeply moved Zhao Kuangyin.

Zhao Kuangyin reached out and patted Zhao Guangyi's back happily, saying:

"I am very pleased that you have the ambition of the Duke of Zhou."

However, war is perilous, and you have no prior military experience; I cannot help but feel worried.”

Having reached this point, Zhao Guangyi knew that success was within reach.

"Your Majesty is aware that I have been well-versed in military books since childhood and have a great love for military strategy."

Although I have never been on the battlefield, it is not that I am unwilling, but that I was young in the past and relied on Your Majesty's protection like the Prince of Taiyuan.

To fight for one's country is my long-cherished ambition.

Furthermore, Your Majesty may appoint a capable general to assist you. Even if I make a momentary lapse in judgment, I will heed the advice of a capable general to prevent any unforeseen events in the military.

Zhao Guangyi knew that Zhao Kuangyin had concerns about his military strategy abilities.

Zhao Guangyi's words made Zhao Kuangyin ponder deeply.

In the past, he felt that Zhao Guangyi's military strategy was lacking, which was mainly a subjective judgment. Before the Battle of Luzhou, he also did not think that Zhao Dexiu had the talent of a general.

It's not impossible that Zhao Guangyi, like Zhao Dexiu, was a hidden gem.

With Zhao Guangyi's assurance, Zhao Kuangyin gradually made up his mind:

"Alright, you'll be in charge of this battle."

"However, you must remember one thing: Li Chongjin is a veteran general, and you must not underestimate him."

Seeing that Zhao Kuangyin was finally persuaded, Zhao Guangyi was overjoyed.

Suppressing his joy, Zhao Guangyi bowed calmly and said:

"Your Majesty's instructions will be heeded by your subject!"

Not long after leaving the palace, an imperial edict was issued:
"The suppression of the rebellion in Huainan will be led by the Marquis of Donghai."

When they learned of this, Zhao Dexiu's subordinates were all somewhat surprised.

They originally thought that Zhao Dexiu's expedition to Huainan should be a natural progression.

Only Zhao Dexiu had anticipated this.

His outstanding performance in the battle of Luzhou was not all good; for example, it allowed a certain racing legend to bask in his glory.

Furthermore, Zhao Guangyi was very good at playing the emotional card, which was precisely Zhao Kuangyin's weakness.

Regardless of what he thought in his heart, in front of his subordinates, Zhao Dexiu showed a joyful expression and said:

"Uncle's willingness to share the nation's burdens is truly a blessing for the Song Dynasty!"

Because Zhao Kuangyin valued loyalty and righteousness, Zhao Dexiu always showed respect to Zhao Guangyi in front of everyone.

The image of "benevolence and filial piety" was very important to Zhao Kuangyin.

Otherwise, if you can't tolerate your own uncle today, what about tomorrow?

Wei Renpu, who was present, knew Zhao Guangyi's wolfish ambitions. He immediately saw through Zhao Guangyi's intentions in seizing military power.

Wei Renpu, who wanted to remind Zhao Dexiu, stood up and said to Zhao Dexiu:
"The Marquis of Donghai is loyal to the country and is worthy of emulation by the world."

However, Huainan is a very important region. It would be better for the Prince of Taiyuan to personally instruct his generals on some matters, just in case.

Wei Renpu's words revealed his distrust of Zhao Guangyi's abilities.

Wei Renpu's suggestion was exactly what Zhao Dexiu wanted to hear.

Whether Zhao Guangyi drifted away after going on the expedition or not was his personal preference and no one could control that.

However, as the Prince of Taiyuan of the Song Dynasty, he could not stand idly by and watch Zhao Guangyi ruin the Song Dynasty's national strength.

At Wei Renpu's prompting, Zhao Dexiu got up and went to the Imperial Guard's Office inside the city.

Upon returning to the capital, Zhao Dexiu, who had made the greatest contribution, received more than just a promotion in rank.

He was promoted to Military Governor of Chanzhou and appointed Commander of the Palace Guards, which were two other honors bestowed upon Zhao Dexiu.

As the Commander of the Palace Guard, responsible for supervising all the generals, Zhao Dexiu took advantage of his position to send someone to find Tian Chongjin for a talk.

When the generals were being rewarded, Tian Chongjin was named one of the top five generals in terms of merit in the Battle of Luzhou.

He was appointed Prefect of Rangzhou and promoted to Commander of the Imperial Guards Infantry.
The honors and rewards Tian Chongjin received were the envy of many.

Tian Chongjin knew that he had basically won this battle by default, relying entirely on Zhao Dexiu's help.

Knowing this, Tian Chongjin came to Zhao Dexiu with a joyful expression when he heard that Zhao Dexiu had summoned him.

"Greetings, Prince of Taiyuan!"

Tian Chongjin bowed respectfully to Zhao Dexiu.

"General Tian, ​​it's been a while since we last met, you still look as dashing as ever."

After saying this, Zhao Dexiu smiled, stood up, took Tian Chongjin's hand, and sat down.

After sitting down, Zhao Dexiu asked Tian Chongjin:
"I heard that in the battle of Huainan, the general and Wang Quanbin jointly served as the deputy generals of the Marquis of Donghai."

Upon hearing Zhao Dexiu mention this matter, Tian Chongjin nodded and said:
"The imperial edict has been issued, and we should be setting off on our campaign in a few days."

After bringing this up, Tian Chongjin, having formed a life-or-death bond with Zhao Dexiu, revealed his true thoughts:

"The rewards for the entire army were not yet fully completed, but the Marquis of Donghai was already thinking about going on an expedition."

That's a bit too hasty.

Upon hearing this, Zhao Dexiu immediately laughed.

Before even setting out, they've already pulled off some outrageous moves.

(End of this chapter)