In the thirtieth year of Kaiping, in September, the two official roads leading to Youzhou and Cizhou were completed.

Minister of Public Works Yuan Mu and Right Vice Minister of Public Works Su Wenyun returned to the capital together to report to the emperor. The emperor was greatly pleased and generously rewarded the ministers. In fact, the official road to Cizhou should have been completed long ago, but due to the collapse of the Jing River Bridge, no one dared to cut corners when building this road afterward. They worked with utmost precision, which caused the delay.

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After Su Wenyun returned to the capital, he held dual positions as the Right Vice Minister of Public Works and the Junior Minister at the Court of Judicial Review. He became the center of attention in Shengjing. 

The Su family from Northern Zhili was a prominent and prosperous family in the Song Dynasty, but most of its members were military generals. As a civil official, Su Wenyun held the highest position.

After returning to the capital, Su Wenyun also had to work in Qinzheng Hall. 

Tang Shen inevitably saw him a few times, but Su daren, a man of high status, would not bother paying attention to a mere Tang Shen. The two had no further interactions, which suited Tang Shen just fine.

The Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review was responsible for overseeing officials guilty of crimes, so no one dared to offend Su Wenyun.

In the imperial court, Wang Zhen held authority over the Silver Pull Division, wielding great power. As Wang Zhen’s junior brother, Tang Shen also rose in status and gained the favor of Zhao Fu. However, Tang Shen ultimately served as an attendant secretary of the Secretariat under Xu Bi.

One day, a eunuch came to Qinzheng Hall to deliver a message. The emperor’s birthday was approaching, and the empress dowager had notified the Ministry of Rites to organize this year’s “Longevity Festival.”

Minister of Rites Meng Lang received the decree, and the entire court became busy.

As an attendant secretary of the Secretariat, Tang Shen followed Xu Bi’s orders to supervise the congratulatory memorials and gifts submitted by local officials. The emperor’s birthday gifts were different from those for common people; officials from all ranks had to present offerings. These gifts had to be “refined, rare, and unique,” a standard that troubled many officials, who struggled to meet such criteria.

Tang Shen soon received countless memorials. The officials wrote their birthday congratulations in flowery language, but their gifts were pitiful.

Left Vice Prime Minister Chen Linghai was also responsible for this year’s “Longevity Festival,” so Tang Shen inevitably crossed paths with him.

Chen Linghai summoned Tang Shen to the main hall and asked, “How are the birthday gifts from the local officials this year?”

Tang Shen tried to play dumb for these officials: “In reply to Chen xianggong, officials from Huxi, Jiangnan, the Northern and Southern Zhili regions, and the northwest have already submitted their memorials and gifts. Officials from other regions have also sent in most of their memorials. However, since these areas are far from Shengjing, their gifts are still en route and have not yet arrived.”

“Every year it’s the same for the Longevity Festival. I’m well aware,” Chen Linghai said, implying that everyone knew officials from remote areas could not offer much, so there was no need to hide it.

Hearing this, Tang Shen forced a smile and said, “I’m still supervising the matter.”

Chen Linghai said, “No need to worry too much. His Majesty is occupied daily with state affairs. Although his orders reach all corners of the realm, there are always places his decrees cannot touch. As long as the birthday gifts reach the treasury, that will suffice. His Majesty understands the struggles of local officials and has never been overly harsh.”

Upon hearing this, Tang Shen immediately bowed and said, “Thank you, xianggong, for your guidance.”

Chen Linghai smiled, stroking his beard. “This is your first year handling the Longevity Festival. There are bound to be things you don’t know, but it’s no trouble. By the way, your teacher and I were old acquaintances. Back when the late emperor was still on the throne, I, along with Fu Xiru, were among the four most esteemed scholars in the realm. Looking back now, those days feel as vivid as ever.”

Tang Shen lowered his gaze and said, “I’ve heard my teacher mention Chen xianggong before. He said that Chen xianggong was especially skilled at painting birds and flowers. Among the blooms, one could see a lively oriole weaving through the flowers, a scene truly worthy of praise.”

After leaving Chen Linghai’s office, Tang Shen returned to his room, his eyes flickering slightly, but he showed no unusual expression and continued reviewing the lists of gifts sent by local officials.

More than thirty years ago, four highly respected scholars were revered as the “Four Scholars of the World.” These four were Zhong Taisheng, Liang Bowen, Fu Xiru, and Chen Weizhi.

Chen Linghai’s courtesy name was Wei Zhi, taken from The Book of Songs·Xuan Niao.

Boundaries stretch for thousands of miles, where the people reside; it begins with the expanse of the four seas.

Among the four, Zhong Taisheng was famed for his remarkable scholarship and was revered by all. Liang Bowen was known for his vast knowledge and was once called the “living library” of the Song Dynasty. Fu Xiru excelled at calligraphy, while Chen Weizhi was known for painting. At the time, these four were also among the most influential ministers in the court. Unfortunately, Zhong Taisheng and Liang Bowen, members of the Songqing faction, were despised by Zhao Fu after their failed coup, and over the years, only Fu Xiru and Chen Linghai managed to remain in power.

Tang Shen paid close attention to Chen Linghai mainly because when Xu Hui was organizing Liang Song’s belongings, he found a secret letter written by Chen Linghai to Liang Song. In the letter, Chen Linghai advised his friend not to try to rescue Zhong Wei from the prison. The emperor would never allow Zhong Wei to leave the dungeon, and no matter how many memorials Liang Song submitted or how many connections he tried to leverage, it was impossible to succeed.

After Zhao Fu crushed the Songqing faction, only Fu Wei and Chen Linghai had extended help to Liang Song among the prominent figures of Shengjing.

Tang Shen sighed.

A true gentleman knows what must be done and what must not.

Didn’t Liang Song understand?

Knowing something cannot be done but doing it anyway—this was the belief, the right path, that Liang Song and many other scholars held in their hearts!

In October, the Hanlin Academy began revising the History of Song Officials. Fu Wei was deeply interested in this and went to the Hanlin Academy daily for work, becoming increasingly busy. By the sixth of the month, Tang Shen arrived empty-handed at the Minister Residence.

Wang Zhen’s steward was surprised to see Tang Shen come without bringing any gifts. He even looked behind him to make sure.

The steward asked, “Tang gongzi, did you come alone?” There was no carriage in sight!

In Wang Zhen’s residence, the steward and servants didn’t call their master “daren” but instead referred to him as “gongzi.”

Tang Shen smiled wryly, “I didn’t bring anything.”

The steward paused for a moment before leading Tang Shen inside.

When Wang Zhen saw that Tang Shen hadn’t brought anything, he raised an eyebrow and glanced behind him.

Tang Shen coughed and said, “Don’t bother looking, Senior Brother. I didn’t bring any gifts today.”

Wang Zhen instructed the steward, “Bring me this year’s almanac.”

The steward quickly fetched an almanac. Wang Zhen searched through it for a while before pointing at the characters for “October 6th” and said to Tang Shen, “Perhaps I’m mistaken, little Junior Brother. Isn’t the sixth of October my birthday?”

Tang Shen replied, “It is your birthday, Senior Brother.”

Wang Zhen said, “Then surely this almanac is wrong. Every year on New Year’s Day, the Astronomical Bureau calculates the almanac and announces it to the world. I didn’t expect Li daren from the Astronomical Bureau to make such an error. Tomorrow, when I see him at court, I will certainly have a word with him.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Wang Zifeng, you’re really good at accusing others of not giving gifts to you in a roundabout way!

The steward, holding a yellow almanac, quietly left the room, and Tang Shen was also feeling huffy. He had known Wang Zifeng for four years, showering him with endless compliments, and had more or less learned how to flatter him. Tang Shen snorted lightly and said, “Who says I didn’t prepare a gift for Senior Brother?”

Wang Zifeng smiled, “Then where is it?”

Tang Shen responded, “Bring me some paper and ink. I’ll paint a picture for Senior Brother!”

At the age of sixteen, Tang Shen had already been ranked third in the imperial exams, so there was no doubt about his academic ability. He was a proper jinshi. But when it came to the arts—music, chess, calligraphy, painting—he was sorely lacking and couldn’t produce anything decent. The fact that he declared he would paint made Wang Zifeng smile even more brightly. He immediately instructed the page boy to prepare the ink, paper, and brushes, eager to see what kind of painting Tang Shen would produce for him.

After grinding the ink and dipping the brush, Tang Shen glanced at Wang Zifeng and began to paint.

Initially, Tang Shen was just painting out of spite, but as he continued, he became engrossed.

An hour later, Tang Shen finished the final stroke. Wang Zifeng walked up, observed the painting for a moment, and then looked at him, “How long have you been practicing in secret?”

Tang Shen sighed helplessly, “Senior Brother saw through me. For your birthday this year, I really didn’t know what to give you. After much thought, I decided to paint you a picture. I’m not skilled in painting, so every day after returning from work, I’d picture your face and paint two more images. It took half a month… to reach this level.”

Wang Zifeng was touched, his lips moved, but for once, he didn’t know what to say.

Tang Shen said, “But next year, I really don’t know what birthday gift I could give you. If it’s not good, Senior Brother mustn’t blame me.”

Wang Zifeng’s tone was light, his mood cheerful, “How could I blame you?”

Tang Shen thought to himself: As long as you don’t blame me, it’s good. I’ve already given you a heads-up a year in advance, so remember what you said today.

After they had dinner, Wang Zifeng said, “Your painting skills still have some gaps. Stay the night, and I’ll give you a bit of guidance.”

Tang Shen groaned inwardly, “Senior Brother, three years ago, I passed the imperial exams, I’m not your student anymore!”

“Who said you’re my student?” Wang Zifeng said lazily, “You’re my junior brother.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Others might spend the night in conversation, sharing heartfelt words. But for Tang Shen, it became a session where Wang Zifeng taught him how to paint!

Wang Zifeng was good at painting, but what did that have to do with Tang Shen? He couldn’t appreciate the beauty of traditional Chinese paintings at all. Managing to paint Wang Zifeng’s portrait was already the result of half a month of private practice. No matter how good Wang Zifeng’s teaching was, Tang Shen was still suffering. In the end, he pretended to be sleepy, “Senior Brother, I want to sleep.”

Wang Zifeng couldn’t help but laugh.

Taking advantage of the moment, Tang Shen escaped to the guest room, shut the door, and promptly fell into a deep sleep.

Zhao Fu’s birthday was celebrated nationwide, and he pardoned the entire country.

However, only two days later, an urgent military report from the northwest arrived. A war between two nations had broken out, with the Liao army attacking Youzhou City, engulfing the area in flames.

The court was in an uproar.

On the dragon throne, Zhao Fu slowly narrowed his eyes. It wasn’t until the officials one by one stood up to condemn the Liao people for violating the peace agreement and urged the emperor to send troops to fight the Liao that Zhao Fu finally flew into a rage, saying, “The Liao people have gone too far. How can I tolerate this?”

Thus, the Song army marched to war, and the two nations clashed.

The battle lasted for a full month.

At this time, the strategic importance of the Youzhou official road became apparent.

In terms of military strength, the Song dynasty had always been far inferior to the Liao. Twenty years ago, the Liao were forced to sign the peace treaty only because the Song sacrificed everything—nearly gambling away their entire nation for victory. Economically, however, the Song Dynasty was far wealthier than five Liao States combined! With the Youzhou official road, military supplies were more easily transported, allowing the Song army to hold out even if they couldn’t win.

The Liao army initially thought it would be a mere hassle, expecting to capture Youzhou within ten days. But after a month of fighting, though the Song army had yet to secure a victory, the Liao forces still hadn’t managed to take the city either.

Wars are costly affairs, and the Liao State never intended to swallow the Song Dynasty at this point; they merely wanted to extract tribute through conflict. Now, seeing that Youzhou still hadn’t fallen, the Liao emperor, in a show of magnanimity, announced a temporary halt to the battle and set up camp fifty miles outside Youzhou, sending envoys to Shengjing to negotiate peace with the Song emperor.

When news reached Shengjing, the court was abuzz with discussion.

Minister of Rites Meng Lang presented a memorial: “The Liao people have treacherous intentions, and they must be here to demand money!”

Minister of Justice Shen Yun countered, “Not necessarily. I’ve heard the Liao emperor intends to propose a marriage alliance.”

This statement landed like a thunderbolt, shocking the entire court, and even those royal relatives who weren’t present felt the blow, crying out in dismay.

A marriage alliance?

The Liao emperor was thirty-four years old, in his prime, and, in theory, a suitable groom. But he was notoriously cruel! Apart from his empress, Empress Xiao, at least ten concubines per year died in his palace—each one tortured to death by the emperor. Sending a princess to marry him would be a death sentence, a slow and agonizing one at that!

Worst of all, Zhao Fu didn’t have any unmarried princesses of age!

If there were no princesses, who could they marry off?

First, select among the sons and daughters of the royal family, then the daughters of the officials.  

For a time, crying echoed throughout the city of Shengjing, as no one was willing to send their precious daughters to the Liao State to suffer.  

Although these matters had nothing to do with Tang Shen, several ministers in Qinzheng Hall had daughters of the right age, and in recent days they all wore worried expressions, sighing continuously. When one sighed, others followed, and the gloom deepened.

Tang Shen carried memorials to the office of the Minister of Works, and as he was leaving, he ran into Su Wenyun.  

As the two of them stood outside they could still hear the sighs coming from inside the room.  

Yuan Mu didn’t have a daughter of the right age, but he did have a granddaughter who was.  

Su Wenyun chuckled, “The Liao delegation hasn’t even arrived, and the court is already in chaos. What will happen when they actually come?”  

Tang Shen remained silent, bowed, and was about to leave.  

At that moment, a soldier in military attire jogged into Ji Wengji’s office. Both Tang Shen and Su Wenyun glanced at him. Tang Shen noticed that the soldier’s armor was somewhat unusual, bearing a golden insignia on the arm.  

Tang Shen asked, puzzled, “I’ve never seen a soldier wearing such armor before.”  

Su Wenyun scoffed, “From the northwest, part of the Feilong Army.”  

Tang Shen’s heart jolted.  

Feilong Army?  

He glanced at Su Wenyun but said nothing, turning to leave.  

Later that evening, just as he was about to leave the office, Tang Shen finally learned why the Feilong Army soldier had rushed all the way from the northwest to Shengjing. As it happened, the officials had been discussing the arrival of the Liao delegation, which was coming to arrange a political marriage, with the emperor of Liao seeking to marry a princess. Meanwhile, General Li Jingde, who was fighting against the Liao forces in Youzhou City, had just lost his wife three days ago, leaving behind a four-year-old child.  

Li Jingde was on the front lines, but his family remained in Shengjing. Now that the two armies had ceased hostilities and the Liao delegation was coming to the capital, Li Jingde seized the opportunity to return home under the pretext of attending his wife’s funeral, all the while keeping a close watch on the Liao envoys.  

At that moment, Tang Shen suddenly recalled something he had once said when he was a junior chamberlain: Zhao Fu had three most trusted confidants in court.  

The Minister of Revenue, Wang Zhen; the Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review, Su Wenyun; and the Marshal of the Western Expedition, Li Jingde!  

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It turns out Li Jingde had long since married and even had a child.  

But General Li was 32 this year, so it was perfectly normal for him to have married and had children.  

Suddenly, Tang Shen froze, recalling something…  

Wait, wasn’t Wang Zifeng already 28? Why hadn’t he married yet?!  

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Compared to other prime ministers’ residences, the Left Prime Minister’s residence could truly be considered humble.

After the teacher and student finished their meal, they wiped their hands with damp cloths and headed to Ji Wengji’s study.

As soon as the door opened, the scent of old ink and paper filled the air. Ji Wengji entered the study, took out a few books, and handed them to Zhao Jing. Zhao Jing received the books with both hands.

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Ji Wengji said, “The roads in Qinzhou are rugged, with mountains upon mountains. Who knows when we will meet again? While you’re there, read more books. When you return to the capital, we can talk again.”

Zhao Jing responded, “I understand, Sir.”

After gifting some books, the teacher and student bid farewell.

Zhao Jing bowed deeply, raising his hands high, and said, “I hope to see you again in Shengjing, Sir.”

Ji Wengji smiled and said, “Go on.”

Zhao Jing turned and left, not once looking back. That afternoon, a light carriage carrying a few boxes of books left Shengjing. By evening, several carriages loaded with clothing and luggage also left from the residence of the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue. After traveling about ten miles outside the city, it reached a small pavilion. Qin Si, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, lifted the curtain of the carriage and his eyes brightened as he ordered the driver to stop.

The carriage stopped, and Qin Si, dressed in plain clothes, hurried to the pavilion and greeted, “Guilty official Qin Si greets the Minister.”

Amidst the swirling yellow sand on the ancient road, in the small, simple pavilion, the person who had been waiting for Qin Si was none other than Wang Zhen.

Wang Zhen looked him up and down and said gently, “Qin daren has lost quite a bit of weight.”

Qin Si felt bitter inside.

Since the incident in Guangling at the beginning of the year, he had been placed under house arrest by the emperor, and nearly half a year had passed. Even a healthy person would grow thin under such circumstances, burdened by endless worries. Qin Si said, “This guilty official has failed you, Minister, unable to handle the affairs of the Ministry of Revenue and the Revenue And Expenditure Department.”

Wang Zhen was surprised, “You didn’t handle it well?”

“Daren?”

“Whenever the sky is clear, dark clouds always seem to obscure the sun, followed by a downpour. But after the rain, the sun shines brighter than before. Don’t you think, Qin daren?”

Qin Si’s expression grew complicated, and after a long sigh, he replied, “Yes.”

Wang Zhen smiled without saying more.

Using the pretext of the 23 Articles of Tax Reform, Wang Quan attempted to covertly implement “paper currency” without drawing attention from the noble families. However, this path ended in failure, implicating both Zhao Jing and Qin Si, who were banished to distant places.

Successfully handling the Revenue And Expenditure Department would have been a great accomplishment, and Qin Si knew that. But behind every success lies risk, and he was aware he was working for Wang Quan and Wang Zhen. In this political struggle, both he and Zhao Jing had failed, leading to mutual destruction. Yet, Qin Si still held on to hope, which was why he eagerly looked out at the pavilion outside the city.

And sure enough, he saw Wang Zhen!

Qin Si remained silent, waiting for Wang Zhen to give him an explanation.

Wang Zhen did not disappoint him.

“I heard Yu De loves the pastries from Caiqi House. It only has a branch in Shengjing, nowhere else. Wouldn’t it be a lifelong regret if you could no longer have them?”

Qin Si’s eyes brightened. “Daren…”

Wang Zhen smiled, “If you like them, then eat as many as you can.”

As the sun set in the west and the moon rose in the east, Wang Zhen and his manservant stood in the pavilion, watching the three carriages carrying Qin Yude depart from Shengjing. Qin Si sat in the carriage, holding the pastries Wang Zhen had gifted him. He opened the box and ate one, surprising Madam Qin.

“Doesn’t husband usually dislike pastries and sweets?”

Qin Si laughed heartily, “My dear, from now on, I, Qin Yude, will love them!”

The political struggle between the two factions had its gains and losses, but after this incident, the Revenue And Expenditure Department would never reopen.

Zhao Fu had once rebuked the powerful ministers in Chuigong Hall, questioning if they truly believed that the founding emperor abolished the Three Departments just to weaken the ministerial power and strengthen imperial authority. The room fell silent; no one dared answer. Among those present, besides the emperor and a few high-ranking officials, there was also a chamberlain and a junior chamberlain.

Unfortunately, these two were dull-headed. Though loyal, they always turned a deaf ear to matters they dared not listen to or think about.

Much later, Wang Zhen mentioned this in jest to Tang Shen.

Tang Shen nearly laughed out loud.

The founding emperor?

The founding emperor was nothing but a brute!

A rough general who seized the throne from the battlefield!

What else could the founding emperor have wanted to do besides weakening the ministerial power by abolishing the Three Departments? Could he really have conceived of more intricate schemes?

Zhao Fu, borrowing the “tiger skin” of the founding emperor, silenced the four prime ministers, preventing them from ever mentioning the reopening of the Three Departments. After the Revenue And Expenditure Department incident, the Ji and Wang factions both suffered losses, but only Zhao Fu remained unaffected, comfortably watching his ministers scramble for power and profit.

But did only the emperor benefit?

Zhao Jing was demoted, Ji Wengji lost a major supporter in court, and Zhao Fu felt more at ease with him.

Qin Si was demoted, and Wang Zhen lost a capable subordinate. Zhao Fu’s newly appointed Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue was aligned with Left Prime Minister Chen Linghai. But beyond this, Wang Zhen was untouched by the incident. In fact, Zhao Fu entrusted him with complete control over the affairs of the newly established Silver Pull Division, favoring him even more.

The Silver Pull Division, established in the northwest, mainly managed military funds and provisions.

In April, Tang Shen privately handed Wang Quan a memorial. A few days later, Wang Quan submitted a memorial to the emperor. Zhao Fu, previously disheartened by the failed “paper currency” policy, had been in poor spirits recently.

At over sixty years old, having reigned for thirty years, Zhao Fu had accomplished many significant feats. For instance, in the tenth year of Kaiping, he went to war with the Liao State and signed a peace treaty; in the seventeenth year of Kaiping, he commissioned the management of the Yellow River, greatly reducing the risk of flooding. More recently, two years ago, he ordered the construction of three official roads leading north, which would be remembered as a great achievement a hundred years from now.

As a sage ruler, Zhao Fu believed he was already destined for an eternal place in history.

But if he succeeded in implementing the “paper currency” policy, he would become one of the most renowned emperors in history.

However, Wang Quan’s initial proposal to disguise the policy under tax reforms had failed. Neither Ji Wengji nor Wang Quan, both serving as prime ministers, managed to pull it off! Now, Wang Quan comes to him again, saying, “Your Majesty, instead of pursuing the levy reforms, let’s go through the military funding from the northwest. We can use the situation at the front as a pretext to secretly push for the ‘paper currency’ initiative!” 

Zhao Fu, though still skeptical, allowed it.

The Silver Pull Division, ostensibly in charge of military provisions, would eventually operate like a future bank once the three official roads were completed. Military officers could store the supplies distributed by the court in the Silver Pull Division and exchange them with deeds when needed. Over time, these deeds would evolve into a form of “paper currency.” There’s no need to go out of your way to exchange; in the various provinces of the northwest, you can directly use these deeds for buying and selling. The Silver Pull Division ‘recognizes the paper, not the person’!”

This was Tang Shen’s “deceive the heavens while crossing the sea” scheme, offered to Wang Quan. (TN: This idiom means to carry out a deception or trick that is clever enough to evade detection, often used in the context of a cunning strategy or scheme.)

The northwest, constantly at war with the Liao State, was an ideal testing ground for the “paper currency” policy, as noble families had no influence there. Once the groundwork was complete, the policy could be expanded nationwide, leaving the noble families with no room to retaliate.

This was a long-term endeavor, not something that could be accomplished overnight. Thus, Zhao Fu entrusted the task to the younger, more vigorous Wang Zhen, not to Wang Quan.

In the court, as the Silver Pull Division began its operations, the court officials were puzzled but had no idea what it was truly for.

Ji Wengji silently acquiesced, allowing the Division to operate.

In the scorching summer, after Tang Shen had finished reviewing the memorials, he handed them to Right Vice Prime Minister Xu Bi. After Xu Bi had read them, he smiled at Tang Shen as he was about to return and said, “Tang daren, today the court’s affairs are particularly busy, and the memorials you need to review are far more than usual.”

Tang Shen halted his steps and turned back, saying, “I will obey the command.”

When Tang Shen returned to his own quarters, a government worker indeed carried over another box of memorials and placed it on his desk. As Tang Shen flipped through them, he saw not only the military reports from the northwest but also the other local reports that Xu Bi had stopped him from viewing last year, now all returned to him. Silently, Tang Shen looked at these reports, closing his eyes in deep thought, trying to figure out what Xu Bi had been orchestrating over the past year.

In the end, he let out a helpless laugh.

Xu Bi hadn’t done anything!

The Ji faction had been exiled, while the Wang faction saw both gains and losses. Chen Linghai’s man had replaced Qin Si, taking the position of Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue. But Xu Bi hadn’t gained anything, nor had he lost anything! He remained, in the emperor’s eyes, a figure that barely existed, an official without presence, a Right Vice Prime Minister with almost no threat to his power.

Meanwhile, Right Vice Minister of Personnel Yu Chaosheng entered Xu Bi’s office, bowing deeply, “Greetings to Sir.”

Xu Bi smiled at him, “Xian Zhi, you and that Tang Jingze have quite the timing. Every time he just leaves, you come.”

Yu Chaosheng was surprised. “Has Tang daren been here?”

Xu Bi replied, “Take a seat.”

The two of them, teacher and student, sat facing each other, discussing academic matters and eventually talking about Yu Chaosheng’s family. Yu Chaosheng had returned to Shengjing for half a year, and his wife had recently given birth. Today, Yu Chaosheng came to ask his teacher to name the child.

Xu Bi said, “You’ve been married for over a decade and finally have a child, which puts a worry of mine to rest. Do you know that two years ago, I almost thought you were like Wang Zifeng, someone who favored men?”

Yu Chaosheng was shocked, “Wang daren has a preference for men? How did you know, Sir?”

Xu Bi countered, “If he doesn’t, why would he be twenty-eight and still unmarried? Xian Zhi, Xian Zhi, you can deduce this just by thinking. Even His Majesty surely knows. In the Song Dynasty, there’s no law that a prince consort couldn’t hold an official position. A son-in-law as exceptional as this would surely have been bestowed with a princess by His Majesty long ago, forming a royal union.”

Yu Chaosheng, feeling ashamed, replied, “I’ve been foolish.”

“His Majesty’s heavy favor towards him is likely not without knowing full well he’ll have no heirs,” Xu Bi continued. “But enough about him. This is your first child, so you need a good name. How about ‘Ke’? As in, ‘to cut a tree with an axe.’ How does Yu Ke sound?”

“Thank you for the name, Sir.”

They chatted a while longer, before Xu Bi, after taking a sip of tea, said meaningfully, “Last year, Wang Quan submitted a memorial for twenty-three tax reforms. I immediately reassigned Tang Jingze to handle the northwest memorials, no longer allowing him to oversee local affairs. Who could have predicted that this year, Wang Quan would propose establishing a Silver Pull Division in the northwest? A Silver Pull Division in the northwest… That Tang Jingze is quite the interesting character.”

July 23, 30th year of Kaiping, 30 li outside Yanzhou City in the northwest. (TN: ancient measure of length, approx. 500 m)

The summer nights of the northwest were like burning knives, the air unbearably dry. The fierce wind didn’t bring any relief from the heat, instead scorching the skin like fire. Over thirty young soldiers, dressed in clothing thay blended into the night, lay prone behind a small hill, quietly observing the scene ahead.

At the center of the group was a tall, dark-skinned, handsome general. His bright, piercing eyes fixed on the rugged path below the hill. The moonlight reflecting in those eyes seemed to burn with an intense flame.

“Click click—”

The sound of hooves and carts approached from the distance.

A quarter of an hour later, a caravan dressed as Liao merchants passed beneath the hill. As they moved between two large rocks, the lead Liao merchant suddenly fell into a trap, throwing the entire convoy into disarray.

“Ambush! Ambush!” The Liao soldiers shouted, speaking in their barbaric tongue.

Atop the hill, a gleaming spear was drawn with a sharp sound. Li Jingde roared, “Where are my Feilong troops?!”

The soldiers answered in unison, their voices shaking the heavens, “Here!”

“Charge with me!”

“Yes!”

The Liao soldiers disguised as merchants were terrified by the thunderous shouts. When they looked up at the hill, they saw only a few dozen men! Yet these few dozen men carried the force of thousands. Furious, the Liao soldiers cursed and drew their blades, charging forward as well.

Under the bright moon, blades pierced flesh, and blood sprayed through the air.

The white tassels of the spear were soon stained with blood.

After a long and brutal fight, the Song army captured several Liao soldiers and seized an entire convoy of military supplies and provisions.

A soldier brought one of the Liao men before Li Jingde. “General, the leader of the Liao soldiers is dead. This man seems to be the highest-ranking among the prisoners. He’s not a soldier; he’s a civil official. A few Liao soldiers tried to protect him, but we captured him.”

Li Jingde wiped the blood off his face with his sleeve. “A high-ranking official, huh?”

The Liao official, speaking Song language, spat at him, “Li Jingde, you bastard! Tomorrow, the Liao army will be at the gates of Youzhou, and we’ll cut off your head and hang it above the city!”

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In the next instant, a silver spear pierced through the Liao official’s chest. He stared in disbelief, not understanding how someone could kill a prisoner of war, especially one as valuable as himself.

“Damn son of a b*tch! Did you really think I have a good temper just because I stayed quiet?” Li Jingde cursed.

“General!” his men said helplessly.

“Let’s go, pack up the goods, and head back. We’ll ask the Commander-in-chief for a reward,” Li Jingde ordered.

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Tang Shen’s gaze was too direct. Wang Zhen noticed that his little junior brother didn’t have the slightest intention of being subtle, almost as if he was wearing a sign on his forehead that said, “Senior Brother, are you sure you’re not rebelling against yourself by doing this?” Wang Zhen couldn’t help but chuckle softly and said leisurely, “The Wang clan of Langya has never been inflexible. The two great clans, Wang and Xie—the Xie family has shown signs of decline, while the Wang family is at its peak. Little Junior Brother, have you ever thought about why?”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Tang Shen pondered for a moment before suddenly sighing deeply, “Water that is not stagnate doesn’t rot, and a door’s hinge that is used doesn’t rust.”

Wang Zhen gazed at him, his eyes shining even brighter.

Tang Shen took his leave from Wang Zhen and left the Minister Residence.

Water that is not stagnate doesn’t rot, and a door’s hinge that is used doesn’t rust… movement!

Wang Zifeng used the Wang clan of Langya as an example, but all he said was that the Wang clan represented the great aristocratic families. He never claimed the Wang clan to be the executioner that harmed others. The Wang clan had been established for hundreds of years, gaining its reputation and standing as the foremost clan on the vast land of the nation. Long ago, before the imperial examination system existed, the social class hierarchy was even more rigid. Later, when the examination system emerged, the aristocratic families’ interests were gradually stripped away, and many fell into decline, but the Wang clan remained standing.

This was because the Wang clan adapted to the changing world!

If it had been the descendants of other aristocratic families facing the reform of replacing gold and silver with paper currency, knowing that this would greatly damage their own interests, how would they have responded? They would have hidden it or resisted it deliberately. But both Wang Zhen and Right Prime Minister Wang Quan vigorously promoted the reform.

The children of the Wang clan of Langya did not only serve the aristocracy but also the greater world.

Tang Shen thought: “The influence of the aristocratic families in Guangling is far less than that in Jinling, yet the death of the county magistrate happened in Guangling, not Jinling… this is the Wang clan’s stance, isn’t it!”

In mid-February, an imperial envoy set off for Guangling in Jiangnan to investigate the Revenue And Expenditure Department case.

By the end of March, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Cao Huixun, wrote a memorial and sent it by a fast courier to Shengjing. After reading the memorial, Zhao Fu flew into a rage and ordered the Minister of Revenue, Wang Zhen, and the Minister of Justice, Geng Shaoyun, to travel to Guangling to supervise the case of the Revenue And Expenditure Department. That evening, the two ministers, along with their trusted aides, set off for Guangling.

In Qinzheng Hall, there was little change from the usual, except that the tax reform issue was gradually being postponed.

The Twenty-Three Articles of Tax Reform were essentially a concept, an ideology, and the Revenue And Expenditure Department was the instrument to carry it out. Now that the Revenue And Expenditure Department had been abolished by the emperor, and with Zhao Jing and Qin Si both under house arrest awaiting punishment, the Department had no personnel left, and the Twenty-Three Articles of Tax Reform were also being delayed.

Everyone knew that the tax reform was a good thing, but no one could implement it.

In April, in the area around Youzhou, the Liao forces violated the border, leading to minor skirmishes with the Song army.

Marshal of the Western Expedition, Li Jingde achieved a major victory over the enemy, and the triumphant report was sent urgently to Shengjing on the third day. The emperor, after reading it, was overjoyed, exclaiming “Good” three times in a row and decided to reward the troops. A few days later, the detailed military report arrived at Qinzheng Hall. Tang Shen read through the thick pile of military dispatches for a long time, and suddenly, something stirred in his heart.

Two days later, Tang Shen wrote a memorial and quietly sent it out.

Before long, a government worker passing by while delivering meals slipped Tang Shen a note. After reading its contents, Tang Shen silently hid the note in his sleeve and, when no one was around, secretly burned it. After work, instead of heading east toward home, Tang Shen walked out of the palace and made his way to Zhengyangmen Street.

Zhengyangmen Street was lined with shops on both sides, and the passersby moved hurriedly along the road.

Tang Shen went straight to Xixia Tower, which belonged to the Tang family. He slipped in through the side door, where someone was waiting to cover for him. He made his way to a private room on the second floor. After pushing open the door, Tang Shen immediately bowed and said, “Lower official Tang Shen, greets the Wang xianggong.”

Sitting in the spacious and tidy room was none other than Wang Quan, the Right Prime Minister of the current dynasty!

Wang Quan, over fifty years old, already had graying hair at his temples. He kept a long beard and had a thin, refined figure, fitting the image of a clean-handed, upright official. Wang Quan did not resemble Wang Zhen much, but both had an air of aristocratic grace that was hard to imitate. At this moment, Wang Quan sat upright in the main room, watching Tang Shen’s respectful demeanor, and smiled, “We’re all family here, come closer.”

“Yes.”

This was Tang Shen’s first formal meeting with the Right Prime Minister.

In the court, there were many factions. The officials didn’t necessarily form opposing parties, and there were some vague connections between them. Tang Shen was considered half a member of the Wang faction because he was aligned with Wang Zhen, but he couldn’t be counted as a member of the Right Prime Minister’s faction.

Wang Quan and Wang Zhen were uncle and nephew, but they operated independently.

More than his affiliation with the Wang faction, Wang Zhen seemed more like a loyalist to the emperor. His loyalty and service were directed solely at the emperor. He was Zhao Fu’s trusted confidant.

Because Wang Zhen was a loyalist, Tang Shen, being aligned with him, was naturally classified as part of the imperial faction. Of course, this faction was complex. Su Wenyun was also a member of the imperial faction, yet he and Wang Zifeng had always been at odds, and he didn’t get along with Tang Shen either.

Zhao Fu’s way of balancing the officials’ power was deeply intricate. He had spent thirty years crafting the court’s political landscape, which appeared simple to an ordinary person but revealed terrifying complexity when examined closely.

In the private room, a steaming hotpot sat on the table, but Wang Quan showed no intention of picking up his chopsticks.

The two sat side by side, and Wang Quan said, “Why did you send me that memorial?”

Tang Shen hesitated for a moment before replying, “Senior Brother isn’t here, and the only person I could think of was you, Wang xianggong.”

Wang Quan smiled, “You certainly have great trust in Zi Feng.”

Tang Shen said nothing but thought to himself: I do trust Wang Zifeng, but I don’t trust you. It was only after weighing my options, I chose to give the memorial to you.

Just as Wang Zifeng had said, the Xie clan had long since declined, while the Wang clan still stood strong. He trusted the Wang clan, so he handed the memorial to Wang Quan.

Wang Quan stared fixedly at Tang Shen, as if trying to find something remarkable on his face. After a long moment, this influential minister of the court laughed and stood up, saying, “I’ve heard from Fu Xiru that although he is your teacher, he has never taught you a single class, instead entrusting you to Zi Feng. Now, it seems the student has surpassed the master.”

Tang Shen felt genuinely uneasy at this: “Wang xianggong, you overpraise me.”

To be compared favorably against Wang Zifeng made Tang Shen a bit self-conscious. His senior brother had an eccentric temper, and Tang Shen still hadn’t fully figured out Wang Zifeng’s thoughts. What if Wang Zifeng heard that Wang Quan had praised Tang Shen as being better than him and became jealous or upset?

Wang Quan laughed, “That will be all for today.”

With that, Wang Quan left.

The hotpot on the table had not been touched at all. After Wang Quan left, Tang Shen finally breathed a sigh of relief and called for Shopkeeper Lu and Tang Huang to join him for the hotpot.

Tang Huang, seeing the untouched table of food, exclaimed in surprise, “These are the freshest ingredients we carefully selected! Brother, how come you didn’t eat any? It’s delicious!”

Tang Shen teased, “Your mind is always on food.”

Tang Huang pouted but retorted with confidence, “Food is the people’s primary concern!”

Tang Shen sighed and said, “‘Food is the people’s primary concern’—what a wise statement.”

For rulers, the people are the foundation, and for the people, food is paramount.

Tang Huang had no idea that just moments ago, the very person in this room had been the Right Prime Minister of the court, Wang Quan! Nor did she know that the conversation just held here was about ensuring that more commoners could have enough to eat.

As for how Wang Quan would execute this plan, Tang Shen didn’t know.

In the 30th year of Kaiping, the great victory in the northwest significantly weakened the Liao people’s morale. Emperor Zhao Fu was overjoyed and rewarded the entire army. Xu Linghou, the Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, advised that the usual process of rewarding soldiers often suffered from logistical losses, leading to inefficiency. With Wang Zhen, the Minister of Revenue, not in the capital and the Right Vice Minister of Revenue, Qin Si, under house arrest, Xu Linghou proposed establishing a Silver Pull Division in the northwest to oversee military affairs.

The emperor agreed.

By May, Wang Zhen and the others returned to the capital. The investigation into the Revenue And Expenditure Department in Guangling Prefecture was officially concluded. The Court of Judicial Review arrested several officials, and the Ministry of Justice detained more people.

Emperor Zhao Fu lamented, “Our founding emperor abolished the Three Departments—did you really think it was merely to curtail ministerial power?”

Emperor Zhao Fu was known for speaking in riddles, rarely saying anything so directly. Now that he had said this, the ministers in Chuigong Hall all bowed in unison. Had the officials of the Song Dynasty been required to kneel before the emperor, there would have been a sea of people on their knees at that moment.

Zhao Fu sighed, “You all fail to understand the painstaking efforts of our founding emperor!”

In May, Emperor Zhao Fu abolished the Revenue And Expenditure Department, a department reinstated for barely a year, dismissed so effortlessly.

Zhao Jing, the Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Department of State Affairs, was demoted for poor supervision and sent to Qinzhou as a fourth-rank governor. Qin Si, the Right Vice Minister of Revenue, was also demoted to serve as a circuit governor in Liuzhou for inadequate oversight. Neither had the chance to appear before the emperor again.

Upon receiving the imperial edict, both Zhao Jing and Qin Si stared blankly at the sky.

The next day, Zhao Jing visited the residence of the Left Prime Minister to see his teacher.

Ji Wengji, the Left Prime Minister, came from humble beginnings. Although he was now a high-ranking official, his lifestyle remained simple. He personally greeted his prized pupil, with his wife serving a modest meal of wild vegetables—two meat dishes and two vegetarian dishes.

Seeing his teacher, Zhao Jing’s eyes filled with tears, and he knelt down immediately, crying, “I’ve let you down, Sir!”

Ji Wengji gently supported him, preventing him from fully kneeling. He said, “What fault could you possibly have? Come, eat some food, and don’t be so emotional. It may only be wild vegetables here, but where you’re headed in Qinzhou, you might not even have this much to eat.”

Qinzhou was a desolate place, and Zhao Jing knew it might be years—if ever—before he returned.

Zhao Jing couldn’t stomach a bite, choking out, “I failed in my duties and even brought disgrace upon you, being publicly rebuked by His Majesty.”

Ji Wengji chuckled, “It wasn’t you who failed; it was my misjudgment. I thought Wang Quan was pushing for tax reform solely for the benefit of the aristocratic families, so I intervened by reinstating the Revenue And Expenditure Department. Now, a year later, upon reflection, I realize I underestimated him—I underestimated Wang Dezhan, I have been narrow-minded; in this matter, I do not possess his grace!”

Zhao Jing was puzzled, “Sir?”

“I’ve gradually come to understand what Wang Quan has been trying to achieve over these past few months. If he truly succeeds, it will be a good thing, a great thing. Now that he’s establishing the Silver Pull Division in the northwest, I finally understand his intentions, though I no longer have the power to intervene.”

Zhao Jing, filled with guilt, said, “It’s because I failed to carry out my duties.”

Ji Wengji replied, “Who knows if misfortune may not prove to be a blessing in disguise?”

Zhao Jing was still confused.

Ji Wengji took another bite of food, his chopsticks pointing vaguely in the direction of the imperial palace. “Look at it now; my most prized pupil has been exiled to Qinzhou, and the power of the Left Prime Minister’s faction has significantly diminished. Surely His Majesty must feel at ease now?”

Zhao Jing thought for a long time, reflecting on everything he had seen and heard over the past year.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Suddenly, a chill ran down Zhao Jing’s spine, followed by a surge of hot blood through his chest. As Ji Wengji’s prized pupil, he wasn’t a fool, and at that moment, he truly understood.

Zhao Jing stood up and bowed deeply, saying, “Sir, your noble spirit is clear to me now!”

Ji Wengji smiled serenely, “Eat your food!”

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In the thirtieth year of the Kaiping era, on the eleventh day of February, Emperor Zhao Fu of the Great Song Dynasty flew into a rage in the imperial court and directly dismissed Qin Si, the Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue, and Zhao Jing, the Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Department of State Affairs. These two were officials in charge of the Revenue And Expenditure Department. With both of them dismissed and awaiting further punishment at home, the Revenue And Expenditure Department was left without a leader.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

In court, Zhao Fu harshly reprimand both Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji and Right Prime Minister Wang Quan. The two dismissed officials belonged to different factions—one to the Wang faction, the other to the Ji faction—severely weakening the morale of both groups.

The next day, Zhao Fu summoned a few of his trusted officials to Chuigong Hall.

Seven to eight prominent officials stood in the hall, waiting for Zhao Fu to speak.

Zhao Fu said, “I originally thought that reopening the Revenue And Expenditure Department was a good and convenient thing. But now, I’m being told that my Revenue And Expenditure Department is rotten to the core. A court official died an unjust death, his body left exposed in the wild, with no one speaking for him, and his corpse even being devoured by wolves! He was once a county magistrate and later became an official in the Revenue And Expenditure Department. He died because of this department. Who will tell me how he died?”

The hall fell into a dead silence.

This incident took place in Jiangnan’s Guangling Prefecture, which in later times would be known as Yangzhou. The death of a mere county magistrate, a seventh-ranked minor official, would not normally cause such a stir. But he wasn’t just any small official; he was a court official closely linked to the controversial Revenue And Expenditure Department.

Zhao Fu’s anger was justified. He wanted to be a sage ruler—how could he tolerate such things happening under his nose?

Minister of Justice Geng Shaoyun said, “We should send someone to Jiangnan to investigate and ease Your Majesty’s concerns by uncovering the truth and clearing the name of the deceased.”

Zhao Fu asked, “Who should be sent?”

Geng Shaoyun thought for a moment and suggested a few names. He proposed sending the Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, along with several officials from the Court of Judicial Review. It was a reasonable suggestion; typically, when such incidents occurred, both the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review would jointly oversee the investigation, allowing for mutual supervision.

Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji stepped forward and said, “Since this matter concerns the Revenue And Expenditure Department, we should also send an official from the Ministry of Revenue.”

Wang Quan glanced at Ji Wengji but remained silent.

At this moment, Minister of Revenue Wang Zhen stepped forward and said, “Liu Sixi, assistant director in the Department of Gold within the Ministry of Revenue, would be a suitable candidate.”

Thus, the decision was made to send a delegation to Jiangnan.

A few days later, when these officials received their orders and began preparing for the journey, Zhao Fu stood atop the Immortal Ascension Tower, gazing out over the city of Shengjing. Night had fallen, and the wind was strong. Chief eunuch Ji Fu carefully draped a sable cloak over Zhao Fu’s shoulders.

“Your Majesty, you mustn’t catch a chill.”

Zhao Fu stared at the darkened imperial city, furrowing his brow. “Does it seem to you that something is missing?”

Ji Fu, looking at the moonlit city, hesitated before asking, “What does Your Majesty feel is missing?”

“They’re going to Guangling Prefecture, with Liu Sixi in tow, but I think one more person should go to ensure everything is in order.” Zhao Fu pondered for a moment before realizing, “Where’s Tang Jingze?”

Ji Fu cursed inwardly, thinking that Zhao Fu was too much. Here he was, looking at the darkened city of Shengjing, yet his mind was focused on something that was thousands of miles off the mark! He had no idea Zhao Fu was talking about the officials being sent to Jiangnan and mistakenly thought he was referring to something missing in Shengjing itself. People say serving the emperor is like serving a tiger, but for Ji Fu, it was more like serving a king of hell!

Ji Fu forced a smile. “If Your Majesty misses Tang daren, why not summon him to the Chuigong Hall tomorrow?”

Zhao Fu nodded.

The next day, Zhao Fu indeed sent someone to Qinzheng Hall to find Tang Shen, but the eunuch who returned reported, “Your Majesty, Tang daren is currently serving as the deputy examiner for the huishi at the Shengjing Examination Hall.”

Zhao Fu paused.

After a moment, he turned to Ji Fu and asked, “Didn’t Tang Jingze just pass the imperial examination as the tanhua three years ago? How is he already a deputy examiner?”

Zhao Fu sent people to investigate and found out that Xu Bi had assigned Tang Shen to the examination hall. But how could anything be kept from the emperor? After further inquiries, Zhao Fu learned that it was actually Grand Secretary Zhou Jin of the Hanlin Academy who had transferred Tang Shen.

“That old Zhou Jin isn’t one to handle such trivial matters. This must be Fu Xiru’s doing. Ah, Fu Xiru, your student has only been an official for three years, and you’re already in such a hurry to promote him?” Despite his words, Zhao Fu smiled.

Fu Wei spent his days at home tending to flowers and birds, acting as if he had no interest in worldly affairs. Now, suddenly pulling strings for his student, pushing Tang Shen into the imperial examination hall for a bit of “gold plating,” actually made Zhao Fu feel more at ease.

“So Fu Wei isn’t entirely without personal ambitions!”

Since Tang Shen was busy at the examination hall, Zhao Fu gave up the idea of sending him to Jiangnan.

Standing in the Mingyuan Tower, Tang Shen was unaware that he had narrowly escaped being sent into a dangerous situation by the emperor.

By February 19th, the three sessions of the huishi were complete.

The juren candidates left the examination hall, but the examiners had not yet begun grading the papers. For the next three days, thousands of xiucai made copies of the exam papers, sealed the names, and sent them to the grading room. Tang Shen and the others then began reviewing the papers. By the end of February, more than ten thousand exam papers had been graded.

Minister of Personnel Shen Yun then selected the top three candidates, and the examiners were finally relieved of their duties.

It was at this moment that a political storm, which had been brewing in Shengjing, came into full view for these examiners.

The imperial investigators dispatched to Jiangnan had already left, and several officials from the Revenue And Expenditure Department had been dismissed from their posts and placed under house arrest, awaiting further punishment. Tang Shen heard these rumors and went to the Minister of Revenue’s residence to visit Wang Zhen.

When Tang Shen arrived, Wang Zhen was having dinner.

Upon seeing him, Wang Zhen said, “Set another place for dinner.”

The steward replied, “Yes.”

Tang Shen sat down.

He hadn’t eaten yet, but his mind was preoccupied with questions, so he didn’t touch the food. He stared at the table full of dishes, not picking up his chopsticks.

Wang Zhen glanced at him, chuckled softly, and in a warm tone said, “Since you’re not eating, there must be nothing here that suits your taste. Someone, have the kitchen prepare crab roe meatballs, chicken broth with shredded mushrooms, and Wensi tofu soup.” He looked at Tang Shen. “Do you like those dishes, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen was speechless.

Crab roe meatballs, chicken broth with shredded mushrooms, and Wensi tofu soup—three famous dishes from Guangling!

Well, Wang Zifeng already knew why he had come.

Tang Shen gloomily picked up his chopsticks and quickly finished his meal. After dinner, they washed their hands with warm water and went to the study.

Wang Zhen brewed tea with a wave of his sleeve and said, “Little Junior Brother, if you have something to say, just say it directly.”

Tang Shen steadied himself and asked, “Did Senior Brother already know about the Guangling incident?”

His first question made Wang Zifeng laugh. Looking into Tang Shen’s eyes, Wang Zifeng seemed slightly hurt. “Do you think I’m the kind of person who would stop at nothing to achieve my goals?”

Tang Shen was stunned for a moment and immediately explained, “Senior Brother, you’ve misunderstood. I wasn’t saying that the death of the county magistrate of Jiangdu has anything to do with you. I just wanted to ask, when did you find out about this?”

Wang Zhen naturally knew that Tang Shen wasn’t suspicious of him, but seeing the anxious and concerned look on Tang Shen’s face, he couldn’t help but curl the corner of his lips in a smile and gave an answer, “On the twenty-ninth of last month.”

The twenty-ninth of the first month!

This means that the county magistrate of Jiangdu died in the early part of the first month, and Wang Zhen knew about it half a month later. But it took the emperor more than a full month to receive the news.

As expected, all of this was within the Wang faction’s plan!

With this answer, many of Tang Shen’s previous suspicions were confirmed. He said, “I had already guessed that when Wang xianggong proposed the twenty-three tax reforms, it seemed on the surface to be for reforming the tax system, but in reality, it was to provide a cover for ‘paper currency’ and secretly implement it. However, the Left Prime Minister would never allow it to develop unchecked, so he reopened the Revenue And Expenditure Department to get involved.”

Wang Zhen poured a cup of tea, leisurely took a sip, and quietly looked at Tang Shen, “Continue.”

“The Left Prime Minister wanted a share of the benefits, but Wang xianggong naturally wouldn’t agree. However, since the Left Prime Minister controls the court, it’s not easy to bypass him in such matters. So last year, Senior Brother publicly agreed to the Left Prime Minister’s suggestion to reopen the Revenue And Expenditure Department, dividing the powers of the Ministry of Revenue. If they acted cautiously, it would be hard to catch them; but if they moved too hastily, they might expose a weakness. Reopening the Revenue And Expenditure Department did indeed divide the Ministry of Revenue’s power, but this move has made his ambition apparent, presenting an ample opportunity to seize on any misstep.”

Wang Zhen gazed at Tang Shen with a long, penetrating look, making Tang Shen feel uneasy.

“Why are you looking at me like that, Senior Brother?”

Wang Zhen: “The Revenue And Expenditure Department has been reopened for half a year now. Have you been following it closely, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen: “Yes.”

“Why the interest?”

Tang Shen thought for a moment, “I am after all part of the Wang faction and stand with you, Senior Brother. How could I not care about something so important? Besides, I’ve always trusted you. Last summer, when I told you about the paper currency in Shu, I knew you wouldn’t just ignore it. You must have thought of something and acted on it.”

Every word was full of trust, with a hint of admiration and respect that even Tang Shen himself hadn’t noticed.

He was genuinely praising Wang Zhen.

It wasn’t flattery or sycophancy, but in his heart, he truly believed that Wang Zhen was capable of such things.

These words hit home for Wang Zifeng, making his smile even brighter.

Tang Shen shared his speculations over the past few months, and Wang Zhen subtly confirmed some of them. Though he didn’t fully reveal the Wang faction’s plans, Tang Shen felt as if he was on the verge of uncovering the truth hidden behind the fog.

However, despite all the revelations so far, the most crucial point was still unspoken.

Tang Shen asked, “Who exactly killed the county magistrate?”

Wang Zhen opened a tea box and pinched out some tea leaves with his fingers. He divided them into three piles. The first pile was the largest, spread out flat. The second pile was smaller, but piled much higher than the first. The third pile had the least amount of tea leaves, but they were stacked tightly together, towering in height.

Wang Zhen pointed to the three piles of tea leaves and said, “Consider these tea leaves as people, and their height as their wealth. Does it seem symbolic, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen immediately understood Wang Zhen’s meaning and nodded.

“Since the time of the late emperor, the Song Dynasty has always faced a money shortage. There’s a lack of bronze, silver, and gold—materials needed to mint currency. The Song Dynasty is vast, rich in resources, and although trade is flourishing, creating a high demand for currency, it shouldn’t be that there are no metals for minting. Yet, there’s a shortage. Have you ever wondered why that is, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen had no idea.

“Why?”

“Because too much has been hoarded!” Wang Zhen poked at the third pile of tea leaves with his finger, scattering them across the table.

Wang Zhen: “Take the Wang clan of Langya as an example. They’re an aristocratic family with a centuries old legacy and great wealth. Over the centuries, they’ve hoarded vast amounts of currency and refuse to put it into circulation, making money scarce. This is one of the reasons for the currency shortage. According to the laws of the Song Dynasty, a thousand copper coins equal one tael of silver, and ten taels of silver equal one tael of gold. But if you truly wanted to exchange ten thousand copper coins for a tael of gold, you couldn’t! You’d have to add an extra thousand copper coins before someone would agree to the exchange! Gold is the most valuable, followed by silver, and copper is the least. The Wang clan of Langya has had a treasury full of gold for over a hundred years, but only the head of the family knows how much gold is hidden inside!”

Tang Shen suddenly realized the truth.

According to the official exchange rate, a thousand copper coins should equal one tael of silver, but that’s just a rule. If someone doesn’t want to exchange their silver, then you can’t trade for it!

Gold is the most valuable and hardest to devalue; silver is next in line.

These aristocratic families and wealthy clans have hoarded too much wealth, and by not using it, they make currency more and more scarce!

Wang Zhen shifted the conversation, his gaze turning cold as he looked at the scattered third pile of tea leaves on the table, “I don’t know who killed the county magistrate of Jiangdu. But he must have died at the hands of these people. The use of paper currency cuts into their profits. It benefits the Song dynasty but is terribly detrimental to these people.”

“So, little Junior Brother, do you now understand why he died?”

Reforms throughout history have always been class struggles.

Tang Shen understood clearly in his heart and sighed deeply, “Now that you’ve explained it, Senior Brother, I understand.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Wang Zhen smiled, “As long as we push for paper currency, these kinds of conflicts will inevitably arise. Since the Left Prime Minister is willing to reopen the Revenue And Expenditure Department and take the lead, let him go ahead. The Left Prime Minister is noble, selfless, and willing to stand against the extravagance and waste of these aristocratic families. Truly admirable! I respect him greatly, though I cannot hope to match him!”

At first, Tang Shen almost laughed at Wang Zifeng’s words, but then he realized—

Wait a minute, you’re the legitimate heir of the Wang clan of Langya, leading the charge against aristocratic families, and you’re using your own family as an example… Is this really okay?!

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The thirtieth year of Kaiping, the first month.

It was just after the New Year, but the officials in Shengjing did not get a good holiday. This year was different from previous years. With the reopening of the Revenue And Expenditure Department and the introduction of the new tax system, the capital officials were so busy that their feet barely touched the ground. Last year during the New Year, the Ministry of Personnel granted a holiday of over twenty days, but this year it was less than ten.

Tang Shen did not return to Gusu.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

On the second day of the New Year, Tang Shen carried several boxes of New Year’s goods and arrived at the Fu Residence. Fu Wei was already watering the flowers.

Nowadays, in all of Shengjing, which official above the fifth rank wasn’t toiling day and night, exhausted by paperwork, except for Fu Xiru, who still had the leisure to water flowers!

Tang Shen approached Fu Wei and greeted, “Sir.”

Without turning his head, Fu Wei continued to water the flowers and said to Tang Shen, “You’re early this year. Jing Ze, don’t leave at noon. Stay for a meal. Your senior brother will be coming too.”

Tang Shen nodded.

Wang Zhen was even busier than Tang Shen.

It was the New Year, and Tang Shen still had at least ten days of holiday. But for someone like Wang Zhen, a high-ranking second-rank official, who served as the Minister of Revenue, matters such as the reopening of the Revenue And Expenditure Department and the new tax system were closely related to him, so he had no chance to rest. It was only at noon that Wang Zhen arrived slightly late, greeting Fu Wei with New Year’s wishes.

The three of them had a meal together in the house, during which Fu Wei pointed at Wang Zhen and said to Tang Shen, “Look at your senior brother. He’s only twenty-eight this year, and he’s already worked himself into an old man. Does he think he’ll become Prime Minister before thirty, or does he think he’ll live long enough that using up a few years ahead of time doesn’t matter?”

Wang Zhen slowly picked up a shrimp, acting as if he hadn’t heard Fu Wei’s words.

Tang Shen glanced at him quietly and said, “Senior Brother is working hard for the court, how can you say that about him, Sir?”

Fu Wei immediately glared, glancing between Tang Shen and Wang Zhen. “Oh, I see. How did I not realize that you two have become partners in crime, ganging up to oppress your teacher? Wang Zifeng, when did you manage to lure your little junior brother to your side? Now he’s even speaking for you!”

Tang Shen thought to himself: Since I came to Shengjing, it was Wang Zifeng who taught me in my studies, Wang Zifeng who taught me how to be an official, and even during the imperial exam, it was Wang Zifeng who personally met me at the gate of the Shengjing examination hall. It seems natural that I would side with my senior brother.

Wang Zhen put down his chopsticks and leisurely said, “My little junior brother thinks of me, Sir. You shouldn’t be jealous.”

Tang Shen: “…?” That sounds a bit off.

Fu Wei was paused, staring at Wang Zhen for a long while before he snorted coldly, “Students grow up, and teachers can’t control them anymore.”

It took a good while for Tang Shen to coax Fu Wei into being in a good mood again.

After the meal, Wang Zhen returned to the Ministry of Revenue to continue his work. Tang Shen didn’t leave until after dinner.

Before he left, Fu Wei hesitated for a moment and then said to his student, “Jing Ze, don’t believe everything your senior brother says.”

This sounded familiar. Four years ago, Liang Song had said the same thing in a letter to Tang Shen. Now that Fu Wei had also repeated it, Tang Shen grew cautious and said, “I’ll remember, Sir.” After leaving the Fu Residence, Tang Shen sighed, “Everyone tells me not to fully trust Wang Zifeng, but when should I trust him, and when shouldn’t I? Why don’t you all make it clear to me!”

On the seventh day of the New Year, before the Lantern Festival, Tang Shen returned to Qinzheng Hall to resume his work.

The next day, Xu Bi summoned him. Sitting in his chair, Xu Bi was leisurely drinking tea. When he saw Tang Shen, he smiled and said in a gentle tone, “I remember, Tang daren was the tanhua of the twenty-seventh year of Kaiping.”

Tang Shen replied, “Yes, daren, I was indeed the tanhua three years ago.”

“Time flies, three years have passed, and the imperial examination is approaching again.” Xu Bi sighed. “I called you here today to assign you a task. Next month is the huishi, and Grand Secretary Zhou from the Hanlin Academy has personally named you to serve as an deputy examiner.”

Tang Shen was shocked. “Daren?”

Xu Bi smiled. “Don’t be too surprised. The huishi is different from the xiangshi; it takes place every three years. During the exam, juren from all nine provinces of the empire come to the capital to participate, and the number of candidates exceeds ten thousand. There is only one chief examiner, the emperor himself. You will be one of the deputy examiners, and there will be dozens of you. The Hanlin Academy cannot handle such a large task alone, so every year, officials are drawn from various government offices.”

Though Tang Shen harbored doubts, he did not show them and instead expressed his gratitude, “I will do my best in the task!”

Xu Bi smiled. “That’s settled, then.”

After Tang Shen left the room, a middle-aged man in his early thirties with a mustache walked in. He had a sharp, handsome, and firm appearance. Upon seeing Xu Bi, he bowed respectfully. “Greetings, Sir.”

Xu Bi gestured for him to sit. “Have a seat.”

Yu Chaosheng bent slightly as he backed toward the chair, only sitting down once he had carefully positioned himself. He then looked up at his teacher.

Xu Bi asked, “Xian Zhi, now that you’ve returned to the capital this year, what are your thoughts on the state of affairs?”

Yu Chaosheng replied in detail, “I’ve been back in the capital for over a month and only just started working at the Ministry of Personnel today. I can see that things are vastly different from six years ago. To mention a recent matter, the Revenue And Expenditure Department’s new tax system stands out. The officials have supported and pushed it forward together, which I greatly admire.” He then shifted his tone. “Although the Ji faction is weak, it has Prime Minister Ji’s firm support who single-handedly holds power. The Wang faction, on the other hand, is teeming with talent. Wang Zifeng, for example, should not be underestimated. But regarding the tax reforms, I believe that Prime Minister Ji is moving too hastily. With the Wang faction gaining momentum these past two years, particularly with figures like Wang Zifeng and Tang Jingze, if something goes wrong with the tax reforms, it could be disastrous.”

Xu Bi sipped his tea. “Did you see Tang Jingze when you came in just now?”

“I caught a glimpse of Tang daren from afar, but he didn’t see me.”

“Zhou Jin has appointed him to serve as an deputy examiner for the huishi in February.”

Yu Chaosheng was shocked. “Sir?!”

“It’s likely not Zhou Jin’s idea; it must be Fu Wei’s doing behind the scenes. Fu Wei wants his student involved in the huishi. What is he planning, or rather, what might happen during the exam?” Xu Bi sighed deeply and said, “You should also serve as an deputy examiner for this year’s huishi. Since Zhou Jin used my name to appoint Tang Jingze, I can appoint you as well. Whether one or two deputy examiners are sent, it makes no difference. You will accompany him to the exam hall.”

“Understood.”

In the thirtieth year of Kaiping, the huishi was overseen by Minister of Personnel Shen Yun, with Grand Secretary Zhou from the Hanlin Academy assisting. On the night before the exam, dozens of officials entered Shengjing’s imperial examination hall, climbing to the top of Mingyuan Tower. Looking down from the tall tower, Tang Shen saw tens of thousands of candidates gathered outside, waiting to enter the examination grounds.

At the appointed time, the gatekeepers opened the doors, and the massive crowd surged forward, rushing into the hall.

This year, Tang Shen was the youngest of the examiners. As he gazed at the candidates in the examination hall, a wave of emotion washed over him. But before he could reflect for long, he spotted a familiar figure out of the corner of his eye. Tang Shen approached and said, “Yu daren, is that you?”

Yu Chaosheng, dressed in his official robes, turned around and met Tang Shen’s gaze. He bowed and said, “Tang daren.”

Tang Shen smiled. “I heard that Yu daren was only transferred back from Guazhou last month. I wonder if you’ve adjusted to the dry and cold northern weather. I am an attendant secretary in Xu xianggong’s office, and I’ve heard him mention you many times. I’ve long wanted to meet you in person, and today I see you indeed live up to your reputation.”

Since Tang Shen had already praised him, Yu Chaosheng naturally returned the favor. “I’ve also heard my teacher speak of Tang daren…”

After exchanging polite compliments, the two went their separate ways.

Tang Shen’s smile slowly faded as he furrowed his brow.

Yu Chaosheng was Xu Bi’s proud disciple and the bangyan of the imperial examination in the 18th year of Kaiping. Mentioning his identity might not immediately spark recognition, but as soon as it’s noted that the zhuangyuan of that year’s exam was Wang Zhen, courtesy name Zi Feng, every official in Shengjing would remember him.

In the 18th year of Kaiping, Wang Zhen’s talent was outstanding, unmatched by anyone, and Emperor Zhao Fu personally bestowed upon him the words “Unparalleled Scholar.” He alone overshadowed the 300 other jinshi who passed that year. Yu Chaosheng had the talent to be the top scorer, and in any other year, he might have claimed the title. However, he happened to take the exam the same year as Wang Zifeng, leaving him in the shadows.

After coming second in the exams, Yu Chaosheng was posted to an outlying province as an official and only returned to the capital last year at the emperor’s summons.

Yu Chaosheng currently holds a position in the Ministry of Personnel as the Right Vice Minister, a third-ranked official.

This year’s chief examiner is Shen Yun, the Minister of Personnel, and Yu Chaosheng being appointed as an deputy examiner likely comes from Shen Yun’s influence. But Tang Shen wondered: why not Xu Bi’s influence?

Yu Chaosheng had only just arrived at the Ministry of Personnel and was clearly one of Xu Bi’s people. Shen Yun, though somewhat associated with the Chen faction, was a close friend and schoolmate of Left Vice Prime Minister Chen Linghai. He had no reason to promote Xu Bi’s people or give Yu Chaosheng this opportunity.

So, why would Xu Bi send his student to oversee the exams?

Tang Shen clenched his fist as his mind raced.

He wasn’t familiar with Grand Secretary Zhou Jin, and there was no reason for Zhou Jin to appoint him to be an deputy examiner without cause. This must have been the intention of the Chancellor of the Hanlin Academy, Fu Wei, who was also Tang Shen’s teacher. But Fu Wei had long retired from court and only held a nominal title. He could certainly use his influence to promote his students and make Tang Shen an deputy examiner after only three years in office, but Tang Shen knew his teacher wasn’t the type to act this way.

So…

It was Wang Zifeng’s idea!

Wang Zifeng had deliberately arranged for him to oversee the huishi, ensuring that in February of the 30th year of Kaiping, Tang Shen wouldn’t be able to attend court!

Senior Brother, what are you and the Wang faction plotting?

Tang Shen gazed at the pitch-black sky, suddenly realizing that the storm Su Wenyun once mentioned might be approaching.

However, now that he was within the examination halls, no matter how heavy the rain might fall, he had an umbrella called the “Imperial Examination” sheltering him, keeping him from being soaked by the wind and rain.

While lost in thought, Tang Shen noticed several candidates with black cloth tied around their heads entering the examination hall. After searching for a while, they found their designated rooms and entered. Tang Shen glanced at them curiously, and the government worker beside him quickly explained, “Daren, those people are ‘Gui Zheng Ren.'”

Tang Shen asked, “Gui Zheng Ren?”

“Precisely. In the 10th year of Kaiping, the Song Dynasty reclaimed over ten prefectures, including Youzhou, which had been occupied by the Liao for 40 years. The Song people living in these regions had spent decades under Liao rule, so they are called ‘Gui Zheng Ren’ (people returned to Song rule). By imperial decree, Gui Zheng Ren entering the capital to take the imperial exams must wear black cloth to distinguish themselves.”

The government worker said no more after this, and Tang Shen recalled reading about Gui Zheng Ren during his time at the Hanlin Academy. The government worker had only mentioned that the emperor ordered Gui Zheng Ren to wear black cloth to signify their status, but he hadn’t said that Gui Zheng Ren were forever barred from becoming jinshi. At most, they could only be of “tong jinshi” status. This meant that Gui Zheng Ren would never have the chance to become third-ranked or higher officials.

Still, there were exceptions in life. Tang Shen knew of one Gui Zheng Ren who had become a second-rank official, but that person had earned the position on the battlefield, fighting his way through a sea of bones and blood, not through the imperial examinations.

Gui Zheng Ren…

Before dawn, in the examination halls of Shengjing, the candidates entered their rooms to rest and prepare for the exam.

Elsewhere, a fast horse galloped across the muddy official roads, traveling from Guangling Prefecture in Jiangnan, across mountains and rivers, racing toward Shengjing.

The next day, before the morning court session began, Zhao Fu squinted his eyes as palace maids and eunuchs helped him dress in his court robes.

Ji Fu hurried into the Funing Palace and said, “Your Majesty, a report has arrived from Jiangnan, delivered by a fast courier.”

Zhao Fu opened his eyes. “Bring it here.”

Ji Fu presented the report with both hands.

After a moment, Zhao Fu let out an angry snort and hurled the stiff document across the room. It hit a young eunuch squarely on the forehead, causing blood to flow instantly. The young eunuch cried out in pain and collapsed to the ground. Ji Fu quickly signaled to the others, who swiftly carried the pitiful eunuch away.

Zhao Fu was furious at first, but gradually he calmed down.

The emperor’s aged and calm face revealed no emotion.

After a long silence, he extended his hand, and Ji Fu quickly helped him up.

Zhao Fu said, “Let’s proceed to court.”

Ji Fu responded, “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Meanwhile, on the second day of the huishi at the Shengjing examination halls, the examiners on the Mingyuan Tower took turns resting. In another part of the capital, within the Zichen Hall of the Song imperial palace, Zhao Fu let out a cold laugh and said, “At the end of last year, the tax contracts sent from Guangling Prefecture didn’t match the actual figures, yet none of my good officials informed me. Truly, my excellent officials, the clean officials of Song! Ji Wengji and Wang Quan, what explanation do you have?”

“Bang—”

A memorial was thrown to the ground, rolling quite expertly, and as it happened two years ago, it once again landed at the feet of Minister of Revenue Wang Zhen.

But this time, the emperor was not scolding him but the two most powerful Prime ministers in court.

Ji Wengji and Wang Quan both stepped forward and bowed.

Zhao Fu thundered, “Look! Read aloud what this report says!”

Wang Zhen bent down, picked up the report, and handed it to Left Prime Minister Ji Wengji. Ji Wengji’s expression changed as he read the contents before passing it to the Right Prime Minister Wang Quan.

Zhao Fu snapped, “Wang Zifeng, read it aloud! Let everyone hear what’s written!”

Inside the Zichen Hall, some officials looked at Wang Zhen’s tall, elegant figure with sympathetic tears for their innocent colleague. Wang Zhen, however, maintained his calm demeanor as he read the report in a steady voice: “In the 30th year of Kaiping, Qin Hao, the county magistrate of Jiangdu County in Guangling Prefecture, oversaw the collection of taxes. On the fourth day of the first month, his body was discovered in the outskirts, with the remaining bones chewed by wolves…”

The court erupted in shock.

Prime Minister Ji and Prime Minister Wang finally understood what was written in the report and looked up in disbelief at the emperor.

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The emperor said coldly, “Continue reading!”

Wang Zhen paused, then continued reading.

After finishing the report, Wang Zhen bowed and handed it back. Ji Fu descended the platform to retrieve it.

Zhao Fu’s gaze swept across the court officials, his voice calm but ominous like the calm before a storm: “Now, my beloved officials, who will explain to me why it has taken a month for this to reach my ears?”

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Yao Shan was originally a fifth-rank chamberlain, but after being transferred to the Revenue And Expenditure Department, he became a fifth-rank Attendant Counsellor. On the surface, his official rank hadn’t been promoted, but everyone knew this was a test from Zhao Fu. Once Yao Shan achieved some accomplishments in the Revenue And Expenditure Department, he would be promoted, with boundless prospects ahead.

Mei Shengze also returned from Youzhou and became an Attendant Counsellor in the Revenue And Expenditure Department. Although both held the title of attendant counsellor, Mei Shengze reported to Yao Shan, who was his immediate superior.

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Upon Mei Shengze’s return to the capital, Tang Shen immediately invited him to gather at the Xixia Tower. Yao Shan also came along.

The three fellow jinshi from the same imperial exam cohort sat in Xixia Tower, eating boxiagong and drinking rice wine, feeling quite content.

After three rounds of drinks, Tang Shen said, “The Revenue And Expenditure Department is a reinstated office from the previous dynasty, never established in this dynasty. Now that it’s been reestablished, I have no idea what work it will undertake. Brother Yao, Brother Sheng Ze, you two reported to the department a few days ago, did you receive any assignments?”

Such matters were not secrets. The Revenue And Expenditure Department wasn’t like the Imperial Guard, a special agency run by the emperor’s trusted. Discussing the tasks of its officials wasn’t a big deal. Even if Yao Shan and Mei Shengze didn’t say anything, Tang Shen could learn about it through other channels, though it would be more troublesome.

Yao Shan didn’t think much of it and took a sip of wine. He said, “We haven’t received any assignments yet. Jing Ze, I truly envy you. You’ve just been transferred from chamberlain to become an attendant secretary in the Secretariat. It seems that being a zhuangyuan like me is not all that advantageous! However, the work of the Revenue And Expenditure Department is significant, serving the country and the people.” As he spoke, Yao Shan’s eyes gleamed with a grand sense of righteousness. “All I can say is that it’s a good task but also a difficult one.”

Mei Shengze, seeing Yao Shan’s fervor, laughed and said, “It seems Brother Yao knows more than I do. I’m truly in the dark and know nothing. After all, Brother Yao was a palace chamberlain, close to the emperor, so it’s normal that you’d hear some inside information.”

Tang Shen said, “Let’s drink! To the success of my two brothers!”

“Cheers!”

The three began eating again.

Tang Shen set down his cup, already deep in thought.

Yao Shan’s words made him more certain of his guess about the task of the Revenue And Expenditure Department.

The work of the Revenue And Expenditure Department must be related to paper currency!

Yao Shan had been a palace chamberlain. Although he wasn’t on duty the day Zhao Fu summoned Ji Wengji and Wang Quan to Chuigong Hall, a matter as significant as replacing silver and gold with paper currency would not be discussed only once. Zhao Fu would certainly deliberate with powerful ministers and officials over several days. So, it was possible Yao Shan had caught wind of it.

The question was: Would introducing paper currency be a significant and beneficial move for the Song Dynasty?

It certainly would be both significant and beneficial.

Tang Shen sighed. As expected, perhaps Wang Quan had already conceived of the 23 tax reform measures and aimed to reform the taxation system of the Song Dynasty. But now that he was proposing it, he was likely using this opportunity to introduce paper currency as well.

The only question was how they planned to implement it.

Mei Shengze said, “Even if Brother Yao hadn’t told me, I’d still know that the work of the Revenue And Expenditure Department is something big. Jing Ze, do you know who I saw at the department yesterday?”

Tang Shen: “Who?”

Mei Shengze: “The Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Chancellery, Zhao Jing, Zhao daren!” (TN: This role was part of the Chancellery, a high-level administrative department responsible for reviewing imperial decrees and advising the emperor.)

Both Tang Shen and Yao Shan were shocked.

Yao Shan immediately set down his wine cup. “Zhao daren at the Revenue And Expenditure Department? Does that mean he’ll be leading the department?”

“Otherwise, why would I have seen him there?”

Yao Shan sighed. “So it really is a major task!”

Zhao Jing, the zhuangyuan of the imperial exam from the third year of the Kaiping reign, was now forty-seven years old.

In terms of rank, Zhao Jing was a second-rank official, the same as Wang Zhen. However, the Chancellery had less power than the Secretariat. Wang Zhen, as the Minister of Revenue, held concurrent posts in both the Six Ministries and Secretariat, giving him slightly more power than Zhao Jing. But if Zhao Jing were to lead the Revenue And Expenditure Department, it would mean taking away part of Wang Zhen’s power, making Zhao daren a significant authority figure.

Besides, Zhao Jing was also known as one of the favorite students of the Left Prime Minister, Ji Wengji, and a central figure in his faction.

Ji Wengji had been the primary advocate for reopening the Revenue And Expenditure Department, and his promotion of Zhao Jing to lead it made perfect sense.

While Yao Shan and Mei Shengze continued discussing the Revenue And Expenditure Department, Tang Shen furrowed his brows, lost in thought.

However, major court affairs were not something minor fourth- and fifth-rank officials like them could meddle in.

Two days later, Zhao Fu appointed Zhao Jing, Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Chancellery, as the Imperial Counsellor of the Revenue And Expenditure Department. At the same time, the new tax reform measures were officially implemented in Northern and Southern Zhili. As for the Ministry of Revenue, the Right Vice Minister Qin Si was transferred to the Revenue And Expenditure Department to serve as the Chief Counsellor, responsible for coordinating matters between the two departments.

In August, Yao Shan and Mei Shengze were dispatched to Southern Zhili to oversee the implementation of the 23 tax reform measures at local government offices.

On the full moon of mid-August, Zhao Fu completed his meditation in the Immortal Ascension Platform and stepped outside the palace gates. He looked up at the full moon in the sky and suddenly felt a surge of energy in his aging body. He paused and said to Ji Fu, “How long has it been since I’ve undertaken something this monumental?”

Monumental?

What monumental task?

Ji Fu was utterly confused, unable to understand what the emperor was saying!

Having served Zhao Fu for decades, Ji Fu’s eyes flickered and he said, “Your Majesty toils daily for the country’s affairs, working from dawn till dusk. It is your diligence that has brought the Song Dynasty to its current strength and prosperity!”

Zhao Fu was silent for a moment, then shook his head.

Ji Fu knew he had missed the point, but there wasn’t much he could do. Not saying the wrong thing was already an achievement.

Zhao Fu sighed, “If only Zi Feng were here, he’d surely understand what I mean. And if Fei Ran were here, he would too!” He didn’t bother mentioning the current prime ministers because he couldn’t be bothered to say their names. Those old foxes all had their own agendas, and Zhao Fu didn’t particularly like them, though he did rely on them.

As he left the Immortal Ascension Tower, Zhao Fu suddenly thought, “If only Jing Ze were here, perhaps he’d also understand what I mean.”

After some thought, Zhao Fu chuckled. “At the very least, he knows how to make me happy!”

For a moment, Zhao Fu considered summoning Tang Shen back. Tang Shen was now a fourth-rank attendant secretary. Though he had committed no error, Zhao Fu could have no reason to demote him back to fifth-rank palace chamberlain and bring him back to the palace. But if the emperor wanted to do something, there was nothing he couldn’t achieve. Zhao Fu was no puppet monarch; if he truly wanted to bring Tang Shen back, even if Tang Shen had made great contributions, he could still find a way.

This idea flashed in his mind for a moment before Zhao Fu dismissed it.

There was no need. Tang Jingze was more useful where he was.

Meanwhile, Tang daren, who knew how to flatter the emperor and make him happy, was at home, eating an ancient version of mooncake and gazing at the moon, pondering the recent developments at court. Little did he know, he had narrowly escaped being demoted and summoned back to the palace as a chamberlain!

But Tang daren had his own frustrations. He was no longer a chamberlain, no longer close to the emperor; as an attendant secretary, he was under the supervision of Xu Bi!

Xu Bi only allowed him to handle the memorials from the northwest, not those from Northern or Southern Zhili. Tang Shen had no way of knowing what was happening at court!

He could also ask Wang Zhen, but lately, Wang Zhen has been extremely busy. Two nights ago, Tang Shen went to the Minister Residence to deliver mooncakes, but even after waiting until late into the night, Wang Zhen still hadn’t returned home, so he had to leave the mooncakes and go.

If it weren’t for the fact that the Song Dynasty had a nighttime curfew and that officials were forbidden from visiting brothels, Tang Shen would have suspected his senior brother of doing something shady!

Tang Shen gazed at the moon and thought, “Two months ago, the emperor summoned both Ji Wengji and Wang Quan, clearly determined to let these two handle the matter of using paper as currency. Ji Wengji reopened the Revenue And Expenditure Department, under the banner of making paper currency, but in reality, it was to divide power and transfer some benefits from the Ministry of Revenue.”

At this thought, Tang Shen paused.

…Is it really just that?

Was the reopening of the Revenue And Expenditure Department truly authorized by Zhao Fu?

What are Zhao Fu’s views on replacing currency with paper?

After a long while, Tang Shen sighed deeply.

He was just a science student—why was he being made to think about such matters?!

Unable to figure it out, Tang Shen stopped thinking.

August passed, and by September, the effects of the tax reforms in Northern Zhili and Southern Zhili had become apparent.

The reduction in harsh and miscellaneous taxes gave the common folk some breathing room and slightly decreased the tax revenues from these regions for the quarter. However, according to the 23 Articles of Tax Reform, the Revenue And Expenditure Department worked closely with the Ministry of Revenue, strongly overseeing the prefectures of Northern and Southern Zhili to reduce the middlemen involved in tax collection. In the end, not only did the tax revenue sent to Shengjing not decrease, but it even increased slightly compared to previous years.

This small increase was almost insignificant, barely noticeable, but during the morning court session, Right Prime Minister Wang Quan remarked, “Northern Zhili and Southern Zhili are adjacent to Shengjing, and the effects of the tax reform have just begun to show. To see true results, we must extend our reach further—to Ningzhou in the northeast, to Jinling and Gusu in the south.”

After hearing this, Zhao Fu said, “Starting next year, implement the 23 Articles of Tax Reform in Jiangnan. Prime Minister Wang, can you ensure this for me?”

Wang Quan bowed and replied, “This official will not fail you.”

Among the civil officials, a middle-aged man with a handsome mustache stepped forward and said, “Your Majesty, I, Zhao Jing, the Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Department of State Affairs, have something to report.”

Zhao Fu: “Speak.”

“The tax reforms in Northern and Southern Zhili have been implemented smoothly, and I personally visited the areas and was deeply moved by what I witnessed. However, after being directly involved, I realized that because these regions are close to Shengjing, improving the efficiency of the reforms wasn’t difficult. But if we aim to extend the reforms nationwide, especially to Jiangnan, there is a significant challenge. I have a memorial to present to Your Majesty.”

The chief eunuch Ji Fu descended the dais and took the memorial from Zhao Jing.

Zhao Fu accepted the memorial, opened it, and scanned its contents. His eyes flickered slightly, and after a moment, a look of curiosity and surprise crossed his face. He turned to Zhao Jing and asked, “Zhao qing, tell me, what is this ‘Tax Contract’?”

On the 4th of September, in the 29th year of the Kaiping era, Zhao Fu approved Consultant in Policy Affairs of the Department of State Affairs Zhao Jing’s proposal to implement the “Tax Contract Reform” in Northern and Southern Zhili.

The “Tax Contract” was exactly as it was called.

Among the 23 Articles of Tax Reform proposed by Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, one of the most emphasized points was reducing the wastage that occurs in the middle of government processes. In response, Zhao Jing proposed the “Tax Contract.” A tax contract is a thin sheet of paper. The lowest-level officials would write their names on this paper, affix their official seals, and submit it layer by layer. Each level of official would sign and stamp the paper, and when it finally reached Shengjing, the Palace Secretariat would know the amount of taxes collected in that region for the quarter.

Then, the Palace Secretariat, under the guidance of Qinzheng Hall, would decide how to allocate this tax revenue. After the decision was made, a portion of the taxes would be kept locally for use, while the remainder would be sent to higher authorities and finally to Shengjing.

This process greatly reduced the manpower and financial costs associated with transportation.

At this point, some keen-sensed officials had already picked up on something unusual from this seemingly simple tax contract.

“Taxation… isn’t this basically using paper as currency?”

AN: Some people say that Neighbor Wang has had his power divided, how pitiful~

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

All I can say is, no matter when, you should believe in Neighbor Wang~ Even though Neighbor Wang is young, the author has given him a golden finger, so he won’t be taken advantage of by those old foxes!

Neighbor Wang: Oh? Not taken advantage of by old foxes, then by little foxes?

Little Fox Jing Ze: Hmm? You’re not happy being taken advantage of by me?

Neighbor Wang: Depends on the kind of “advantage” 【smirk】.

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