Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms
Chapter 340: Yuan Shao's Defeat in the Battle of You and Ji
The next day, the sky was just beginning to turn pale, and the morning light was barely visible. Threads of light seemed to outline a golden edge around the towering palace. The emperor, dressed in court robes, walked with steady steps, his expression as calm and indifferent as ever, as he entered the solemn and awe-inspiring court hall.
In the court, the ministers had already lined up on either side. Seeing the emperor approach, they bowed respectfully and congratulated him on his wedding. The emperor's lips curled up slightly, creating a perfectly composed smile. His eyes gently scanned the crowd, and he spoke to each of his ministers one by one. His words were gentle and humble, without a trace of the anger and dejection of yesterday.
At this moment, Xun Yu's expression was solemn. He stepped forward, holding a tablet, and respectfully reported, "Your Majesty, we received another urgent military report yesterday. The conflict between Yuan Shao of Jizhou and Gongsun Zan of Youzhou has intensified, and clashes are ongoing. In recent days, the armies of both sides have been frequently mobilized, and friction has been frequent. The situation is as tense as a fully drawn bowstring, with swords drawn and a war seemingly imminent. And Lü Bu of Bingzhou, a renowned and formidable general, feigned engagements with Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, while secretly plotting. Taking advantage of Yuan Shao's unpreparedness, he suddenly entered the fray, leading Bingzhou's elite divisions in a surprise attack on Yuan Shao's army like a tiger descending from a mountain. Wherever they went, Yuan Shao's troops were thrown into disarray."
"Yuan Shao had been brimming with confidence, intending to engage Gongsun Zan in a life-or-death battle, expanding his territory and strengthening his power. However, Your Majesty's previous clever planning, like a masterful chess game, has disrupted Yuan Shao's entire plan. After days of meticulous preparation, Yuan Shao was caught off guard by this sudden turn of events, resulting in devastating losses. Now, with his army's morale low, Yuan Shao has been forced to halt his campaign, cautiously defending Jizhou, and daring not to challenge Youzhou again. The previously chaotic war situation has now become clearer thanks to this series of events."
Upon hearing Xun Yu's report, the emperor's face lit up with a brilliant smile, followed by a hearty laugh, repeatedly exclaiming, "Good, good, good!" The laughter echoed throughout the court, demonstrating the emperor's joy. He straightened his body slightly, his gaze shone with authority and wisdom. He said, "This move not only thwarts Yuan Shao's ambitions but also demonstrates the power of the imperial court to the world. It has extinguished Yuan Shao's rebellious ambitions for expansion and demonstrated the magnanimity of our dynasty."
The emperor paused, looked at Xun Yu, and continued, "Your Majesty, arrange for a messenger to convey my order. Take this opportunity to send an envoy to Yuan Shao's army to question him about his unprovoked invasion of other provinces. I want him to understand that the majesty of the imperial court cannot be violated, and he must be punished. Currently, Gongsun Zan of Youzhou and Lü Bu of Bingzhou are both eyeing Jizhou covetously, like three sharp blades hanging over Yuan Shao's head, enough to make Yuan Benchu dare not act rashly again. Sending an envoy now will dampen his arrogance and let the world know the power of the imperial court." Xun Yu bowed slightly and replied respectfully, "As you wish."
The emperor still had a smile on his face as he added, "Now that the war is over, it's time to let General Lu Bu come to Chang'an. I want to meet this fierce general in person. The three brothers of Emperor Liu and General Zilong have also been on the expedition for half a year. They have worked hard and made great contributions. This is a great achievement. Summon them back to the court together, and I will make arrangements. In addition, let a few of them recount their contributions in detail, and I will reward them according to their merits." Xun Yu nodded and ordered his subordinates to write down the emperor's orders one by one.
Meanwhile, the veteran ministers from aristocratic families in the court were still in complete bewilderment, completely unaware of the emperor's plans. Seeing Xun Yu seemingly privy to the situation, they all questioned him. After a moment's hesitation, Xun Yu slowly recounted the events that had unfolded. Lü Bu had been preparing to surrender to the emperor, but the emperor had instructed him to hold his troops in place while secretly dispatching Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, along with Zhao Yun, to stage a grand plot in Bingzhou. With concerted efforts and meticulous planning, they waited for the perfect moment. Finally, at this moment, they caught Yuan Shao unawares and dealt him a heavy blow, severely dampening his morale.
Upon hearing this, these veteran ministers felt a chill run down their spines. They deeply sensed the emperor's wariness and dislike for them. They were completely unaware of such a momentous event. And now, the emperor was actively promoting the talented individuals he had recruited, led by Wang Jie, gradually placing them in positions below the rank of Nine Ministers, infiltrating the court. His intention was self-evident: to reshuffle power in the court, allowing these newly rising forces to become the backbone, thus overcoming the current situation where the court was dominated by aristocratic ministers.
Within that towering palace, a group of veteran officials, who had been at court since the time of Emperor Xiaoling, were full of vigor and ambition, each playing their own role in the palace's political intrigues and government affairs.
Then, Dong Zhuo's reign of misrule ushered in a dark and chaotic period. He seized power by force, deposed the old emperor, and installed Liu Xie as emperor. The court was roiled by chaos and bloodshed. Veteran officials, during this period, either sought to protect themselves or engaged in covert resistance, but their lives remained precarious. Now, with the emperor's restoration, it should have been time to revive the government.
Yet, these veterans of three dynasties found themselves gradually marginalized by the emperor. Once commanding the support of hundreds and enjoying unparalleled influence, they now watched from the sidelines as the emperor promoted new ministers, their hearts filled with resentment and discontent. Within this magnificent yet cold and oppressive palace, they sighed inwardly and pondered their future options.
These veteran officials pondered: Now that they've lost power in the court, if they don't make plans soon, they'll likely be at the mercy of the emperor. They considered the aristocratic families they relied on, whose deep roots and immense influence were evident in the local areas. They wondered if they should have the aristocratic families seek out reliable individuals among the princes to provide them with covert financial support. That way, even if their influence in the court faded, they wouldn't be easily manipulated by the emperor. Perhaps, with the influence of the princes, they could regain their footing in the volatile court, preserving their family's honor and their own status.
The atmosphere in the court was solemn and fraught with hidden turmoil. Wang Jie, with his head held high, strode from the ranks of courtiers. After respectfully bowing to the emperor, he reported, "Your Majesty, our dynasty has achieved such a great victory, and Bingzhou has surrendered to the court. Since then, the entire north has been united, and the situation has become peaceful and harmonious. However, look at the Marquis of Wei, Ma Chao. He was tasked with conquering only the small city of Tianshui, and even after six months, he still hasn't taken it. I believe Ma Chao may be secretly colluding with the rebels, neglecting state affairs during the war, and his intentions are clear, indicating his rebellious nature. Your Majesty, please punish Ma Chao to shake the morale of the army."
Liu Bian sat upright on the throne, his face calm and his eyes penetrating, making it difficult to discern his true thoughts. He exchanged a subtle glance with Wang Jie, then slowly swept his gaze across the court. He spoke, "Alas, your words, Lord Wang, are an exaggeration. I have always respected Marquis Wei. He values friendship and loyalty, and is a loyal man with a sincere heart. Although the war is going poorly, he certainly has no ulterior motives." He then turned to Xun Yu and instructed, "Your Majesty, send another envoy to report this great victory and the current situation to Marquis Wei, Ma Chao. Instruct him to swiftly resolve the situation and capture Tianshui County before or after winter. That way, the court can enjoy a peaceful New Year."
Xun Yu watched the high-spirited Majesty with mixed emotions. He understood the Emperor's intentions and stepped forward, responding, "Yes, Your Majesty." Yet, Xun Yu harbored numerous concerns. His Majesty was good in every way, except that he was too preoccupied. This was clearly a warning to Ma Chao, but yesterday, His Majesty had accepted Lu Wan as his consort, and Lu Wan was Ma Chao's confidante. If Ma Chao returned, who knew what the situation would be like. Xun Yu could only sigh inwardly at this thought.
The emperor glanced around the court, his expression solemn, and spoke again, "Lord Lu Zhi, you are loyal to the state, devoting yourself to the cause, and have made tremendous contributions to our dynasty. During the suppression of the rebellion, Lord Lu personally led the soldiers into battle, defeating the enemy with a small force and stabilizing the border. In court, you have repeatedly offered frank advice, helping me resolve my worries and difficulties. His achievements are comparable to those of the wise ministers of ancient times. Today, I confer upon Lu Zhi the title of Marquis of Fanyang County, a supreme honor, and I hope he will continue to serve the court."
Upon hearing this, the ministers nodded in praise, exclaiming that Your Majesty was wise. Fanyang County was Lu Zhi's hometown, where he held considerable prestige and had dedicated countless efforts to protecting his homeland and maintaining peace. Granting him the title of marquis of Fanyang both honored Lu Zhi's achievements and served as a symbol of his glorious return to his homeland.
The emperor paused briefly before continuing, "Lu Yu, son of Lu Zhi, is a man of extraordinary talent and intelligence. I believe he possesses the ability to help the world. Although still young, he is capable of great accomplishment. I appoint Lu Yu as Imperial Censor of the Secretariat, allowing him to gain experience in the court. He will undoubtedly become a pillar of our dynasty in the future."
The emperor slowly rose, his dragon robe radiating a majestic aura. He declared, "Today, on this occasion of great victory, all the ministers should join me in congratulating us." The ministers knelt and chanted "Long live the emperor!" But beneath this seemingly peaceful court, a turbulent undercurrent seemed to surge. Each minister had his own thoughts, and the future remained shrouded in mystery, leaving no room for prediction.
Regardless of what the ministers in the court were thinking after the breakup, whether they were lost in thought, worried, or secretly plotting, Liu Bian, accompanied by Wang Yue and Shi A, had already calmly arrived at Lu Wan's palace. Dian Wei, like a towering mountain, still stood before the palace gate, his face stern and blocking their way.
Seeing this, the emperor didn't get angry. His face still wore a smile as warm as the sun. He gently said to Dian Wei, "General Dian, why do you have to be like this? Wan'er and I are husband and wife in name only. We live together as close as husband and wife. Why do you always get so nervous?" Dian Wei's face remained expressionless. He simply said stiffly, "Why are you here again?" The emperor smiled softly and replied in a gentle voice, "Ah, General Dian, the imperial concubine and I are a normal couple. We have important matters to discuss, so of course I have to come here." After that, he turned to the eunuch standing at the palace gate and said, "Go inside and report to the imperial concubine. Tell her that I'm here to discuss my return home tomorrow and ask her to come out and see me."
The emperor now displayed a magnanimous demeanor, a trace of the anger and hatred from yesterday. He stood tall, his dragon robe fluttering gently in the wind, his eyes bright and gentle, a breathtaking sight. Dian Wei had his concerns, but seeing the emperor's words, he couldn't resist.
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