In the Liao State, at the capital city of Dading Prefecture.

The military report from Datong Prefecture was delivered to the palace at top speed.

The Liao Emperor had been injured during a hunt and was now unconscious. All state affairs were being handled by the Second Prince, Yelü Shege, and the Grand Preceptor, Yelü Ding. The urgent military report quickly fell into Yelü Shege’s hands. As soon as he opened it, he was furious, “The Song people dare to tear up the peace treaty! Do they think our Great Liao has no one left? Look at this report!”

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Yelü Qin’s expression changed. He took the report, read it, and then angrily said, “Our Great Liao hasn’t even started the war, and that insignificant Song dares to cross the line! Your Highness, rest assured. Once our Liao cavalry marches south, we will teach those foolish Song people a painful lesson.”

Yelü Shege pondered for a moment, then raised his hand, “No, perhaps this is a good opportunity.”

Yelü Qin was stunned, “Your Highness?”

Yelü Shege’s handsome face showed a flicker of uncertainty. He spoke quickly, “My imperial father has always favored me. While he is unconscious, the power of the court should naturally fall to me, and I should act as regent. But the Grand Preceptor’s influence is too great. Dealing with him is like trying to skin a tiger. Now that the Song army dares to invade, this might be our chance. Every day Imperial Father remains unconscious, our situation becomes more dangerous.”

Yelü Qin’s eyes lit up as he understood. He cupped his hands and said, “This official will immediately send someone to deliver the urgent military report to the Grand Preceptor’s residence.”

Yelü Shege smiled faintly and nodded slightly.

At the same time, in the Great Song, at the capital city of Shengjing.

A scout rode a fast horse, holding a military report high, and was granted special permission to gallop through the official roads straight into the palace.

In Chuigong Hall, the emperor was drinking ginseng soup.

Zhao Fu picked up a black pill and placed it in his mouth. He swallowed the pill with the ginseng soup. At that moment, the chief eunuch Ji Fu hurried in and bowed, “Your Majesty, a military report from the Northwest.”

Military reports took precedence over all else. Without waiting for Zhao Fu to summon him, the scout delivering the report had already knelt in Chuigong Hall. He held a small wooden tube high above his head, waiting for the emperor to open it.

Zhao Fu’s eyes gradually widened. He sat on the throne, unable to regain his composure for a long time.

As if summoning all his strength, he pushed himself up from the armrests and stood, his body swaying slightly. Ji Fu, sharp-eyed as ever, quickly rushed forward to support the emperor’s right arm. Zhao Fu stood in Chuigong Hall, only two feet away from the small wooden tube, but he didn’t dare to take that step.

In Chuigong Hall, the attending eunuchs and maids didn’t understand what was happening.

The chamberlains on duty today didn’t understand what was happening.

Ji Fu, who was supporting Zhao Fu, didn’t know what was wrong with the emperor.

Even the scout delivering the report didn’t understand that what he held in his hands wasn’t just a military report—it was the vast, boundless territory of the Great Song’s three provinces!

Zhao Fu suddenly stepped forward. He moved so quickly that Ji Fu couldn’t keep up. He grabbed the military report, opened it, and read it. Panic, worry, anxiety, and wild joy flashed through his cloudy, aged eyes. In the next moment, he suddenly calmed down. He placed the report on the desk and ordered Ji Fu, “Summon Xu Bi, Wang Quan, Chen Linghai… Zhou Fang, Wang Zhen.”

Ji Fu’s heart skipped a beat. He knew something major had happened. He secretly glanced at Zhao Fu and saw the emperor calmly looking ahead, his expression indifferent, as still as an ancient well.

An hour later, all the first-rank officials of the court had entered Chuigong Hall.

Two hours later, they began to leave one by one.

The expressions of these first-rank officials were varied and colorful. The last to leave Chuigong Hall was the current Left Prime Minister, Xu Bi. Now nearly seventy years old, his sparse, graying hair and gaunt frame made his official robe seem too large. As Xu Bi walked out of Chuigong Hall, the sun was setting. He stopped in the square in front of the hall and stood still for a moment.

After a while, he sighed and continued on his way.

In Chuigong Hall, Zhao Fu paced back and forth dozens of times. He hadn’t had this much energy in a long time. After discussing the Northwest military situation with his first-rank officials, he immediately began strategizing and making deployments with his ministers. Though he should have been exhausted, he was instead incredibly excited.

After another round of pacing, Zhao Fu suddenly turned around, “Ji Fu.”

The emperor had been wandering around the hall, and though Ji Fu didn’t understand why, he had to follow him around several times. Now that the emperor had stopped, Ji Fu quickly responded, “Your servant is here.”

Zhao Fu, “What do you think of the portrait they painted of me last year?”

Every year on Zhao Fu’s birthday, palace artists would paint a portrait of the emperor. Ji Fu smiled, “Your Majesty’s majestic appearance, with your prominent nose like a mountain peak, was captured vividly.”

Zhao Fu, “I think it wasn’t good enough.”

Ji Fu was stunned.

“Summon the palace artists! Have them paint another portrait of me!”

The emperor’s casual whim immediately set the palace into a flurry of activity. Ji Fu, seeing the emperor’s joy, couldn’t help but feel genuinely happy as well.

The next morning, news of the Northwest war spread throughout the court.

The officials were shocked.

Tang Shen, as the third-rank Right Vice Minister of Works, had known that war in the Northwest was inevitable, but he hadn’t expected Su Wenyun and Li Jingde to act so quickly! Why had they suddenly taken action? Even Grand Preceptor Zhou wouldn’t dare to start a war lightly. This was a major conflict between two nations, and it required the emperor’s seal of approval.

Tang Shen pondered this matter with his head lowered. In Zichen Hall, the officials were already in an uproar. However, since the war had already begun, after the officials finished arguing, Zhao Fu waved his hand, and the hall immediately fell silent. His voice was steady and resonant, “The Liao people have bullied the Song for too long. Those three provinces of divine land are all territory of the Great Song. Every time I think of this, my heart aches, and I cannot sleep at night!”

The officials immediately responded in unison, “We are willing to share Your Majesty’s burdens.”

Zhao Fu’s gaze swept over the faces of these officials. In the next moment, his tone was decisive, “I have decided to send an additional one hundred thousand troops to the Northwest!”

Even the pro-peace faction among the officials could only grit their teeth and respond loudly, “We obey Your Majesty’s command!”

In Shengjing, news of the war between the two nations spread throughout the city in an instant.

The officials were all busy. War was no easy matter. Provisions had to be prepared before the troops moved. The Ministry of Revenue and the Ministry of Works immediately began transporting military funds and provisions to Youzhou. The Ministry of War and the Ministry of Personnel were also busy. The emperor wanted to send an additional one hundred thousand troops, but where to mobilize these soldiers was a difficult problem.

In the Left Prime Minister’s residence, the core members of the Xu faction were also in heated debate.

“The Song and Liao have coexisted peacefully for twenty-six years. Now, suddenly, we are starting a war, and it is being led by the Great Song. This is utterly absurd!”

“Although we signed a peace treaty, the Liao people have been encroaching on our borders every year. Now we are simply repaying them in kind.”

“That’s easy for you to say, Liu daren. That’s the Liao State, with thirty thousand iron cavalry! How can we defeat the Liao? This is like smashing an egg against a rock, courting destruction.”

“You…!”

“Clink—”

The crisp sound of a teacup being placed on the table rang out. The officials who had been arguing immediately fell silent and turned to look at Xu Bi, who was seated at the head of the table.

Half of Prime Minister Xu’s face was in shadow, making it hard to see his expression clearly. His voice was drawn out, “Whether we are willing or not, this war has already begun. Arguing about it now is meaningless. This may not be a disaster. As the saying goes, misfortune may be a blessing in disguise!” Xu Bi turned to his student and smiled, “Xian Zhi, your opportunity has finally come.”

Three days later, the court mobilized one hundred thousand troops, with General Wei Lü as the commander and Minister of Justice Yu Chaosheng as the supervising envoy. They marched west toward Youzhou.

When Tang Shen heard that Yu Chaosheng had gone to the Northwest, he was extremely surprised. That evening, after returning to the Minister Residence, he asked Wang Zhen, “You actually let Yu Chaosheng leave Shengjing?”

Wang Zhen was sipping tea. Hearing this, he turned to look at Tang Shen, “You already know?”

Tang Shen, “How could I not know? By this afternoon, the entire court knew!”

Wang Zhen smiled, “The emperor appointed him as the supervising envoy of the three armies and ordered him to go to the Northwest. What does that have to do with me?”

Tang Shen: “…”

“The Xingzhou case is still being investigated by the Court of Judicial Review and the Ministry of Justice. Now that Yu Chaosheng is gone, which good and loyal official do you plan to harm next, Senior Brother?”

Wang Zhen suddenly laughed, “In your heart, is Yu Chaosheng a good and loyal official?”

Tang Shen countered, “Isn’t he?”

“Not necessarily.” Wang Zhen said lightly. Suddenly, he became interested and turned to look at Tang Shen, asking, “In little Junior Brother’s heart, am I also a good and loyal official?”

Tang Shen: “…”

Tang Shen silently stood up, kissed Wang Zhen on the cheek, and then said, “In my heart, Senior Brother naturally is.”

Wang Zhen laughed heartily.

The Northwest war had become the major event that everyone in Shengjing was paying attention to.

Three days later, the artist finally finished painting Zhao Fu’s portrait. Zhao Fu was extremely satisfied and couldn’t put it down, admiring it all day. He hung the portrait in Chuigong Hall, where he could see it every time he looked up.

The emperor was in high spirits, and the eunuchs and maids also benefited from this.

Ji Fu had been living very comfortably these days. He wasn’t worried about the situation in the Northwest—that was something for the officials to worry about. All he knew was that since the emperor was so happy, everything must be fine.

Outside Chuigong Hall, Ji Fu sighed to his godson, “Life is getting more and more comfortable!”

As soon as he finished speaking, Ji Fu had just finished instructing his godson, Xie Bao, when he saw a scout quickly walking in from the palace gates. Ji Fu’s eyes immediately lit up. The last time a military report came from the Northwest, the emperor had been happy for ten days after reading it. Now that another report had arrived, it must surely be good news.

Ji Fu eagerly brought the scout into Chuigong Hall.

Zhao Fu, “Is this a military report from the Northwest camp?”

The scout knelt on the ground, holding a secret letter high, “Reporting to Your Majesty, this is not a military report. This humble servant has received a secret letter from the residence of the Second Prince.”

Zhao Fu was slightly surprised. He ordered Ji Fu to bring the letter to him. As he read the letter, Zhao Fu’s expression quickly darkened. He clenched the letter tightly, the force so great that it almost tore the thin paper.

“Useless!”

Zhao Fu suddenly shouted, startling everyone in the hall.

In the next moment, Zhao Fu’s eyes closed, and he fell backward. Ji Fu, terrified, rushed forward and used his body as a cushion, preventing the emperor from hitting the ground. He groaned in pain, then looked up and shouted, “Quick, summon the imperial physician! Summon the imperial physician!”

Fortunately, this wasn’t a recurrence of his headache. Zhao Fu had simply been overwhelmed by anger and fainted due to a sudden lack of breath. By nightfall, he had woken up. This unpredictable emperor stared coldly at all the eunuchs and maids in Funing Palace. The servants were all terrified, not daring to breathe loudly.

After a quarter of an hour, Zhao Fu withdrew his icy gaze. He stood up, and Ji Fu quickly draped a robe over him.

“Your Majesty.”

Zhao Fu didn’t respond. He walked silently to the desk, picked up a brush, and wrote an imperial decree, stamping it with the imperial seal.

Zhao Fu said indifferently, “Tomorrow, you will go and announce this decree.”

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Ji Fu, taken aback, carefully accepted the decree and said cautiously, “Yes, your servant obeys the order.”

Zhao Fu, “First, go to the Fourth Prince’s residence, then to the Fifth Prince’s.”

Ji Fu was both shocked and puzzled, “…Yes.”

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The case of Sun Shangde implicated many people, and Zhao Fu personally ordered the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review to jointly investigate the case.

However, to everyone’s surprise, Yu Chaosheng, the Minister of Justice, was excluded from the investigation and was not allowed to participate in the trial of the accused officials. After some thought, people quickly realized why: in the nineteenth year of Kaiping, Yu Chaosheng had been serving in Xingzhou!

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The Xingzhou case was an old case from seventeen years ago, involving many people. Resolving it thoroughly would not be easy. Two months passed quickly, and before the Xingzhou case could be concluded, trouble broke out in the Northwest.

On the sixth day of the third month of the thirty-sixth year of Kaiping, a small force of thirty-eight soldiers from the Northwest camp launched a surprise attack on Liao territory, capturing nearly a hundred Liao soldiers and ambushing a supply route used by the Liao army. Under the cover of night, while the Liao soldiers were still asleep, Grand Marshal Zhou dispatched thirty thousand troops to charge into enemy territory.

That night, the clash of weapons and the thunder of hooves shook the earth.

The Liao soldiers were still deep in their dreams when the sentries on the city walls sounded the alarm. The Liao soldiers scrambled to put on their armor and grab their weapons. By the time they rushed to the city gates, the Song army had already breached most of the defenses.

Speed is crucial in warfare. The sudden arrival of thirty thousand troops at the city gates caught the Liao army off guard. Despite their reputation for bravery and skill, they were utterly defeated.

However, this city on the border between Song and Liao, which had been Song territory decades ago and was named Jiaozhou, had been renamed Datong Prefecture by the Liao. Datong Prefecture was surrounded by mountains on three sides, making it easy to defend and difficult to attack. Even though the Song army had nearly taken the city gates, the Liao soldiers quickly rallied and held their ground.

The Liao general defending the city, Xiao Han, was furious. He sent a messenger back to Dading Prefecture: “Go quickly and inform Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding that the Song army has invaded! They dare to wage war against us! This is the perfect opportunity to retake their territories like Youzhou and teach these Song people a lesson.”

“Yes.”

The Liao soldiers held the city gates, while the Song soldiers prepared for battle.

The two sides were locked in a stalemate at Datong Prefecture for three days. Xiao Han, the defending general, was not worried. Although he was not a famous general, defending Datong Prefecture was well within his capabilities. But on the fourth day, the expected shipment of military provisions did not arrive through the secret supply route. Only then did Xiao Han realize something was wrong.

“Damn it, has something happened to the supply route?”

On the other side, Li Jingde, carrying a heavy helmet under his arm, strode into the marshal’s tent. It was March, and the Northwest was still bitterly cold, but Li Jingde was drenched in sweat. He wiped the sweat from his brow and then saluted with a military bow, “Li Jingde reporting to the Grand Marshal. Following the location revealed by the Liao soldier, I led troops and captured two more Liao supply convoys.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou’s stern face broke into a rare smile. He shouted, “Well done! Was it you who made the Liao soldier talk?”

Li Jingde scratched his nose. He was an honest man and wouldn’t take credit for something he didn’t do, “It wasn’t me. It was… Minister Su Wenyun from Qinzheng Hall. That guy used to be the Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review. He’s really good at making people talk.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou glanced at him, “I was just starting to think you were shaping up. That’s Su daren, not ‘that guy.'”

Li Jingde chuckled.

A military advisor nearby sighed, “Four years ago, we discovered the Liao army’s secret supply route but kept it hidden, waiting for the right moment. Finally, the time has come. Marshal, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!”

Soon, several other generals from the Northwest entered the marshal’s tent to discuss strategy.

Meanwhile, in Youzhou City, the Second Prince, Zhao Shang, had been in a daze for days, unsure of what to do!

Grand Preceptor Zhou’s surprise attack on Datong Prefecture had been kept completely secret from Zhao Shang. It wasn’t until the next morning, when his advisor burst into his room in a panic, that Zhao Shang was jolted awake from his sleep. His eyes still heavy with sleep, he opened the door to find his trusted advisor looking terrified, “It’s rebellion, rebellion! Your Highness, the Grand Preceptor has attacked Liao, torn up the peace treaty, and started a war!”

Zhao Shang felt as if he had been struck by lightning. He was wide awake now.

With the war in the Northwest, Youzhou City was immediately placed under lockdown, enforced by Li Jingde himself.

Hearing that Li Jingde had returned to the city, Zhao Shang immediately went to find him, but he was too late. Li Jingde had already left.

From then on, Zhao Shang spent four days in a daze within the city. Neither he nor his advisor could understand where Grand Preceptor Zhou had found the courage to launch a surprise attack on the Liao army! Even if he managed to take Datong Prefecture, once the Liao army regrouped and counterattacked, the Song army would surely be the ones to suffer a crushing defeat.

The peace treaty signed between the two nations in the tenth year of Kaiping had been hard-won by Grand Preceptor Zhou after ten years of bloody warfare!

How could he now tear up that precious treaty with his own hands?

Zhao Shang was utterly baffled, and even his advisor couldn’t provide an answer. On the fifth day, Zhao Shang’s eyes were glazed over. He even began to think that his trip to Youzhou might end in his death. But then, unexpectedly, someone from the Northwest camp arrived at his residence. Zhao Shang’s eyes lit up, “Quick, let them in!”

A young general in silver armor saluted him with a fist-and-palm bow, “This humble soldier greets Your Highness. I have been sent by the Grand Preceptor to escort you to the camp.”

Zhao Shang was overjoyed. Had Grand Preceptor Zhou finally remembered his existence?

But before he could speak, his advisor pulled him aside and said with deep concern, “Your Highness, the Grand Preceptor’s actions are unpredictable. The Northwest camp might be a trap. Your life could be in danger if you go.”

Zhao Shang was jolted back to reality. “You’re right. Grand Preceptor Zhou suddenly attacking Liao—could he be planning a rebellion? But what can I do? He’s sent someone to fetch me. Who in Youzhou City dares to disobey the Grand Preceptor’s orders?”

The advisor was about to suggest, “Why don’t you go, and I’ll stay behind to support you,” but before he could speak, he saw the intense look in Zhao Shang’s eyes. He sighed inwardly, knowing that no matter what, he couldn’t escape. Zhao Shang would never allow him to leave alone. If he suggested it, it would only damage their relationship and lead to certain death. If he didn’t, it would still lead to certain death.

After a long moment of thought, the advisor said, “Your Highness, please write a letter immediately. I will arrange for someone to try to sneak it out of Youzhou City.”

Zhao Shang’s eyes reddened, “Is that the only option?”

The advisor gritted his teeth, “It’s the only option.”

Zhao Shang, “Then I can only trouble you, to accompany me on this journey.”

The advisor’s eyes filled with tears as he clasped Zhao Shang’s hands.

The two were escorted by four soldiers to the Northwest camp. By the time Zhao Shang met Grand Preceptor Zhou that evening, he was so weak with fear that he couldn’t utter a single word.

“Your Highness,” Grand Preceptor Zhou saluted briskly.

Zhao Shang, “Grand… Grand Preceptor.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou silently studied him for a long time. Though his expression was unreadable, Zhao Shang inexplicably felt that the Grand Preceptor was deeply disappointed in him. Before Zhao Shang could figure it out, Grand Preceptor Zhou said, “The decision to go to war is not mine alone. Here is an imperial decree, and you, Your Highness, are the one to announce it.” With that, he handed the decree to Zhao Shang. “The declaration of war between Song and Liao will be made by Your Highness.”

Zhao Shang’s legs trembled, and he was on the verge of tears, too afraid to take the “fake decree.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou let out a heavy sigh, no longer hiding his disdain and disappointment, “This is a genuine decree, stamped with the imperial seal by His Majesty himself before I left the capital last year!”

Zhao Shang: “Huh?”

Zhao Shang was utterly shocked. He had never imagined that when Zhao Fu sent him to Youzhou a year ago, it was for this very moment—the war between Song and Liao!

The situation on the battlefield changed rapidly. The clash between the two nations unfolded in just a few short days.

Winning against Liao was no easy task for the Great Song. They had to seize the critical moment. The Northwest had been preparing for years for this opportunity. But if they had to send someone to Shengjing to request the emperor’s decree, it would take at least six days for a round trip. Those six days could very well lead to a devastating defeat for the Song army. Therefore, Zhao Fu had written the decree a year ago and entrusted it to Grand Marshal Zhou, authorizing him to start the war at any time.

But a decree alone was not enough. Having a prince personally announce the decree would make it more official and silence the critics.

When Grand Preceptor Zhou asked the emperor for this person, Zhao Fu was still bedridden with illness. Leaning against a large, soft pillow, he gazed calmly at the golden silk quilt. After a while, he asked, “Grand Preceptor, which of my three sons do you think has the potential to be the crown prince?”

The Grand Preceptor’s voice was firm, “The matter of the throne is for Your Majesty to decide.”

Zhao Fu said, “Between teacher and student, there should be no distance. Grand Preceptor, please speak frankly. I am sincerely asking for your opinion.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou looked down at the aging emperor for a long time. Finally, he sighed and said, “This old subject will follow Your Majesty’s decision.”

Zhao Fu smiled and said, “Indeed, my three sons are all mediocre, none of them capable.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou did not respond.

Zhao Fu also fell silent.

The prolonged silence was an unspoken understanding between the emperor and his subject.

In the stillness, Zhao Fu murmured, “Zhao Shang, he is my eldest son.”

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Now, as Zhao Shang held the decree, he felt a sense of unreality. This trip to the Northwest camp was not at all what he had expected. When he returned to his tent in a daze, his advisor, who had been waiting anxiously, listened to his account of what had happened. The advisor’s eyes widened in shock, and then he exclaimed with joy, “Congratulations, Your Highness! Regardless of the outcome of this war, you are now the leading candidate for the crown prince!”

Only then did Zhao Shang snap out of his stupor. He laughed heartily, feeling as if he had finally emerged from hardship into sweet reward.

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Xingzhou, located in the southwest of the Great Song Dynasty, borders Pugan.

During the morning court session, Censor Fang Weitong listed seven charges against Liu Ji, the governor of Xingzhou, with a forceful and shocking delivery. Immediately, Zhao Fu ordered a thorough investigation into the matter and dispatched officials to Xingzhou to arrest Liu Ji.

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For a moment, the entire court fell silent, and no one dared to speak.

Only after the morning court session ended and the officials dispersed did they dare to discuss what had just happened. Li Yude, the Left Vice Minister of Works, walked alongside Tang Shen but did not mention the events in Zichen Hall. Instead, he said, “I heard that a few days ago, Tang daren summoned Ji Mengwen back to Shengjing?”

“That is correct.”

Li Yude smiled, “As fellow officials of the Ministry of Works, if there is anything Tang daren needs assistance with, please feel free to ask.”

Tang Shen saluted, “Thank you, Li daren.”

“You are too kind, Tang daren.”

After the morning court session, in Qinzheng Hall, Yu Chaosheng, the Minister of Justice, pondered for a long time before knocking on his teacher’s door.

Xu Bi softly said, “Come in,” and Yu Chaosheng entered the room. He bowed deeply and said, “Your student pays his respects to Sir.”

Xu Bi gestured for him to sit and personally poured him a cup of tea. Yu Chaosheng immediately accepted the teacup with both hands, feeling both honored and apprehensive.

Xu Bi smiled gently, “Are you worried about Liu Ji’s situation?”

Yu Chaosheng replied, “Of course, I cannot hide anything from you. Over a decade ago, when I was posted outside the capital, I served in Xingzhou for a year and had some interactions with Liu Ji. Xingzhou is located in the Southwest, bordering Pugan to the south. Earlier in Zichen Hall, Fang Weitong accused Liu Ji of corruption and bribery. I fear these accusations are true. In border regions between two countries, there are too many opportunities for profit.”

“Then why are you concerned about him?”

Yu Chaosheng fell silent for a moment before saying, “I am wondering why Liu Ji, after serving as the governor of Xingzhou for so many years, was suddenly impeached with a single memorial?”

Xu Bi said, “There are no coincidences in this world. Your concern is not unfounded. Then think about it—who stands to benefit from removing Liu Ji?”

After a long pause, Yu Chaosheng exclaimed in realization, “Their target is Xingzhou?”

Xu Bi nodded, “Exactly. In the Northwest, there is the Youzhou Silver Pull Division; in the Northeast, the Shengjing Silver Pull Division; and in the Southeast, the Jiangnan Silver Pull Division. And in the Southwest? Xingzhou is an unavoidable key point!”

Yu Chaosheng suddenly understood, feeling as if the clouds had parted to reveal the clear sky. “Your student thanks Sir for your guidance.”

The teacher and student drank tea together for a while longer, and then Xu Bi asked, “Are you certain that you have no connection to Liu Ji?”

Yu Chaosheng replied, “Of course not. When I served in Xingzhou, Liu Ji was only a minor sixth-rank official. I remember his name because I happened to meet him a few times at banquets. His unusual appearance left an impression on me. How could I be connected to him?”

Xu Bi smiled leisurely, “Then you can simply observe from the sidelines and let them do as they please.”

Not only Yu Chaosheng but many officials in the court were puzzled. Why had Liu Ji, who had been far from the emperor’s reach in Xingzhou for over a decade, suddenly been impeached and charged with serious crimes?

What was the reason behind this?

Most people could not guess who Liu Ji had offended to end up in such a situation.

A very few high-ranking officials turned their attention to the Xu and Wang factions. Without a doubt, it was the work of one of these two factions, but who had done it and why remained a mystery.

Two months later, in the eighth month of the thirty-fifth year of Kaiping, the Imperial Guards escorted Liu Ji from Xingzhou back to Shengjing.

Liu Ji had been a fat man, standing less than five feet tall but as wide as three people. Yu Chaosheng remembered him precisely because of his astonishing obesity—he looked more like a wealthy merchant than a scholar. However, over the past two months, Liu Ji had been unable to sleep or eat, and he had lost over forty pounds. His eyes were sunken, making him look like a wandering refugee, lost and destitute.

Upon arriving in Shengjing, he was immediately imprisoned in the Court of Judicial Review’s dungeon.

Soon after, the Junior Minister of the Court of Judicial Review was ordered to investigate the case. Since the case involved a large amount of money, Zhao Fu, who had ruled for many years, did not expect his officials to be entirely incorruptible and poor. However, Liu Ji’s actions had crossed a line. Zhao Fu ordered a thorough investigation, and the officials of the Court of Judicial Review dared not delay. Within a month, Liu Ji had been tortured into confessing, and the case was resolved.

In the tenth month, Liu Ji was imprisoned in the dungeon, his family’s property was confiscated, and his children and relatives were reduced to slavery.

However, half a month later, another official from the Censorate submitted a memorial to the emperor, impeaching another person.

This person was named Sun Shangde, who currently served as a dispatcher in the Jiangnan Weaving Bureau. The censor accused him of bribing Liu Ji, who was then the Vice Governor of Xingzhou, in the eighth month of the nineteenth year of Kaiping. The two had colluded to embezzle funds from the Xingzhou treasury, leading to a severe drought the following year. With no grain reserves in the treasury, over a hundred thousand people died in three regions of Xingzhou.

When this memorial was presented, the entire court was shocked.

In Zichen Hall, Left Prime Minister Xu Bi tightly gripped his jade tablet, his cloudy, aged eyes flickering uncertainly. He slowly raised his head and looked at Right Prime Minister Wang Quan, who stood to his right, as if trying to discern the thoughts behind Wang Quan’s calm expression. Zhao Fu was also stunned.

The drought in Xingzhou was no small matter.

In the twentieth year of Kaiping, Zhao Fu had been obsessed with cultivating immortality and was building the Immortal Ascension Platform. Suddenly, the Southwest experienced three months without rain, causing severe droughts in Xingzhou, Cangzhou, and Mengzhou. At the time, Zhao Fu had been terrified, and rumors spread both in the court and among the people that his extravagant construction of the Immortal Ascension Platform, which had drained the people’s resources, had provoked divine retribution.

To address this, Zhao Fu had even gone to the Altar of Heaven to pray for a month, fasting and seeking heaven’s protection.

Natural disasters inevitably caused deaths, but the question was how many. That year, the drought in the three regions of Xingzhou had killed over a hundred thousand people. Zhao Fu had thought the death toll was too high, but given the severity of the drought, he had dismissed the matter after removing the officials involved. But now, someone was claiming that before the drought, the Xingzhou treasury had already been empty!

Zhao Fu’s heart was in turmoil, but at the same time, he looked down in a daze at the officials standing in Zichen Hall, beneath him.

After a long while, Zhao Fu picked up the impeachment memorial and slammed it onto the ground.

“Investigate! Investigate thoroughly! I want to see how many corrupt officials are still running amok in my court!”

In the winter of the thirty-fifth year of Kaiping, Zhao Fu did not suffer from headaches again. He was full of energy, but the entire court was as silent as a cicada in cold weather.

In the first month of the following year, Sun Shangde was imprisoned in the Court of Judicial Review’s dungeon, and his case was postponed for further investigation.

In the Left Prime Minister’s residence, Xu Bi stood in his study. Behind him, an incense burner emitted wisps of white smoke, while outside the window, snow fell like goose feathers in the north. The core members of the Xu faction were all gathered in the room.

Xu Bi silently gazed out the window, while the officials in the room all lowered their heads, unsure of what to say.

After a long while, Xu Bi said, “Using Liu Ji as a starting point, they implicated Sun Shangde, and then all the officials of Xingzhou from the nineteenth year of Kaiping. This move was far-sighted and meticulously planned. I am in awe and admit defeat. At this point, Xian Zhi, do you understand why all of this happened?”

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Yu Chaosheng’s face flushed red. He stood up and said, “When the drought struck Xingzhou, I had already been transferred away to Jinling. But in the nineteenth year of Kaiping, I was still in Xingzhou. However, I truly had no idea that the officials of Xingzhou had colluded to embezzle funds from the treasury! All these twists and turns—it turns out everything was aimed at me! It’s easy to dodge an open attack, but hard to guard against a hidden arrow. This time, I, Yu Xianzhi, was too careless!”

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In the study, a single candle flickered.

Tang Shen had never liked reading or writing at night because the poor lighting strained his eyes and could even affect his vision. After developing glass, he had Yao San and the workshop workers use glass-blowing techniques to create glass lampshades. Although the light from these kerosene lamps was still not as bright as in the modern world, it was much better than before.

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At this moment, he was carefully reading a letter under the kerosene lamp. After finishing the letter, he opened the glass lampshade and held a corner of the letter close to the flame. With a soft snap, the letter began to burn from the bottom. The dim candlelight cast shadows on Tang Shen’s face, making his expression unreadable.

Before long, the steward came to report, “Gongzi, daren has returned.”

Tang Shen calmly cleaned up the ashes that had fallen on the table, but halfway through, he stopped, leaving a small pile of ashes on the table. He walked out and happened to meet Wang Zhen as he entered the courtyard. The two faced each other under the moonlight, both pausing for a moment, each with a hint of guilt.

Wang Zhen stepped forward and took Tang Shen’s hand, “It’s so late, and you’re still up waiting for me, little Junior Brother?”

Tang Shen countered, “It’s so late, and you’re only just returning. Who else would I wait for if not you?”

Wang Zhen smiled leisurely and led his junior brother into the study.

As soon as they entered, Wang Zhen caught a faint whiff of burnt paper. His mind stirred, and he noticed the half-pile of ashes on the table. Tang Shen’s act was too clever—the ashes were scattered unevenly on one side but formed a straight line on the other. Clearly, someone had started cleaning but stopped halfway.

How could Wang Zhen not understand Tang Shen’s intention? His gaze shifted, and he said, “Little Junior Brother, have you ever seen a rooster crow at dawn?”

Tang Shen, “…Huh?”

“I haven’t seen it, but back in Zhao Family Village, I heard the neighbor’s rooster crow a couple of times.” Tang Shen grew curious, “Why are you asking this?” This wasn’t following the script!

Wang Zhen meaningfully uttered one word, “Guess.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Guess my foot!

Tang Shen said irritably, “Always spouting sweet nothings and speaking in riddles. Is teasing me that fun?”

This time, Wang Zhen felt genuinely wronged, “It was you who started being cryptic, making me guess your intentions.”

At first, Tang Shen didn’t understand, but when he did, Wang Zhen pulled him into an embrace, pointing at the half-pile of ashes on the table, “Since you didn’t mean to hide it from me, just say it directly. But if you think this is a game and insist on making me guess, I won’t spoil your fun. I guess this is a letter.”

Tang Shen snorted, “And then?”

“A letter from the Northwest.”

“And?”

Wang Zhen paused for a moment, then said, “Written by Wang Daiyue?”

Tang Shen, “You guessed right, but no reward.”

Wang Zhen suddenly laughed. He had only been thinking about how to keep Tang Shen from finding out about his visit to the Right Prime Minister’s residence and what he had discussed with Wang Quan. Feeling guilty, he had forgotten to ask for a reward in advance. Minister Wang felt he had suffered a great loss. In his thirty-plus years of life, he had never been so thoroughly outplayed.

However, Wang Zifeng would never let his emotions show. He said calmly, “It’s all because I love you too much. You see, the moment I see you, I forget everything else.”

Tang Shen ignored him.

Although Tang Shen now held real power due to his control over the Ministry of Works, the emperor had removed his position as the Right Vice Imperial Censor of the Silver Pull Division to balance the court. But Tang Shen had been laying the groundwork in the Silver Pull Division for two years. How could his influence be so easily stripped away? He was no longer the Right Vice Imperial Censor, but his trusted subordinates, Wang Xiao and Mei Shengze, were still stationed at the Youzhou Silver Pull Division. On the surface, they acted as officials of the Silver Pull Division, but behind the scenes, they were engaged in “collaborating with Liao.”

Both of them now reported to Su Wenyun, but they were firmly part of Tang Shen’s faction.

Over the past six months, whenever something happened in the Silver Pull Division or Su Wenyun ordered them to do something, they wouldn’t report every detail to Tang Shen. But when it came to major events, Wang Xiao would still write a letter and secretly send it to Shengjing.

“The Liao Emperor was injured during a hunt. Now, the second prince, Yelü Shege, and the third prince, Yelü Han, are at each other’s throats, ready to explode at any moment.” Tang Shen’s expression was serious, “This is what Wang Xiao wrote to me about. In the past six months, besides the agent we planted near Yelü Shege, Su Wenyun and Li Jingde have also bribed a guard close to Yelü Han. Originally, the struggle for the throne had already set the two brothers against each other. Now, with an extra push, things are about to boil over. It won’t be long before the perfect opportunity to counterattack Liao arises.”

As the head of the Silver Pull Division, Wang Zhen didn’t know everything Su Wenyun and Li Jingde were planning, but he had a general idea.

Hearing this, he was slightly surprised, but after some thought, he asked, “What about Yelü Ding?”

Tang Shen sighed, “That’s exactly what worries me.”

Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding, the true power behind the throne in the Liao court. With the Liao Emperor injured, Yelü Ding now controlled the government. He came from a noble tribe and supported the third prince, Yelü Han. Yelü Shege’s only support in this struggle was the Liao Emperor himself.

Now that the Liao Emperor was injured, the most worried person wasn’t someone else—it was the second prince, Yelü Shege.

If the Liao Emperor were to suddenly pass away, the throne would likely never fall to Yelü Shege. So, in this critical moment, Yelü Shege couldn’t afford to sit still. Whether the Liao Emperor lived or died, before his death or recovery, the Liao State would inevitably face internal turmoil.

To secure the outside, one must first stabilize the inside.

The internal strife in Liao wouldn’t last long; it would be resolved quickly.

Perhaps, just like the palace coup during the New Year in the Great Song, a storm would rise overnight, and by the next morning, everything would be calm again.

How to seize this opportunity, how to take advantage of it to attack Liao—that was what Su Wenyun and Li Jingde were working on.

Wang Zhen suddenly asked, “The Liao Emperor was injured during a hunt?”

Tang Shen blinked, “That was truly an accident.”

Wang Zhen suddenly smiled.

How had the Liao Emperor been injured?

Aside from the still-unconscious Liao Emperor, no one knew the full story!

But there were many who wished for the Liao Emperor’s death. The most obvious were the third prince, Yelü Han, and his supporter, Grand Preceptor Yelü Ding. And if we look further, Su Wenyun and Li Jingde—who wouldn’t want the Liao Emperor to die immediately and for the Liao State to descend into chaos?

It was getting late, and after talking for a while longer, the two prepared to rest.

Tang Shen propped his chin on his hand, leaning on the table, watching as Wang Zhen closed the two windows in the bedroom. When Wang Zhen turned around, he saw Tang Shen staring at him unblinkingly under the candlelight. His heart stirred, and a wave of arousal arose. Wang Zhen didn’t move, just stood by the window, smiling at him.

The two gazed at each other for a long time, and the atmosphere in the room grew warm.

Then Tang Shen suddenly spoke, “Senior Brother, what did you discuss at the Right Prime Minister’s residence today? You were there for so long.”

All the feelings of arousal in Wang Zhen’s heart vanished instantly, but on the surface, he remained composed. He strode forward, stopping by the table, and reached out to pull Tang Shen into his arms, smiling as he said, “Just some family matters about Jinling Prefecture.” But Tang Shen dodged his hand.

Wang Zhen’s hand hung in mid-air.

Tang Shen, “Senior Brother, you once told me that you would never deceive me in this lifetime. If you did…”

Wang Zhen looked at him helplessly, leaned down, and gently kissed his lips. His gaze was deep, filled with utmost tenderness, “Yes, I will never deceive you in this lifetime.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Could you not suddenly kiss me before saying that?!

Tang Shen was speechless for a long time. He snorted lightly, “In that case, I’ll ask, and you answer.”

Wang Zhen picked him up, “Alright.”

Tang Shen, “When you went to the Right Prime Minister’s residence today, were you discussing political matters?”

Wang Zhen kissed him, then said, “Of course not.”

Tang Shen, “Was it related to the Silver Pull Division?”

“Not related.” Another kiss.

“Did something go wrong with the Silver Pull Division?”

“Not that I know of…” Before he could finish, Wang Zhen quickly corrected himself, “No, something did go wrong.” Then he leaned down and kissed Tang Shen again.

Tang Shen: “Wang Zifeng!”

Wang Zhen laughed heartily, “Haha, as agreed, if I lie to you, I’ll kiss you first. Jing Ze, I didn’t break my promise.”

Tang Shen: “…”

Fine, I can’t outtalk you!

Tang Shen pondered for a long time, then looked up and asked, “Then one last question. Are you planning to do something… to make the Silver Pull Division go wrong?”

Wang Zhen’s joyful smile gradually faded. He looked at Tang Shen quietly, his gaze deep as water.

“You have no idea how much I adore your cleverness, but sometimes I wish you could be a little more dull!”

Tang Shen immediately understood, but after a long silence, his question was, “Why did you hide it from me?”

Wang Zhen scolded sternly, “How could I tell you about such filthy matters? If you knew, how would you see me?” With that, he put on a heartbroken expression, covering his face and falling silent.

Tang Shen pulled Wang Zhen’s hand away from his face, and the two locked eyes. Wang Zhen’s gaze was clear, filled with unconcealed amusement.

Tang Shen said expressionlessly, “Although it seems like I’m at a disadvantage, Senior Brother, as agreed, you’re supposed to kiss me before lying.”

Wang Zhen’s eyes widened in surprise. The next moment, he burst into laughter, leaned over, and kissed those eloquent lips. After a passionate kiss, Tang Shen was left breathless, and Wang Zhen finally spoke the truth, asking, “In your heart, shouldn’t I be a noble and upright gentleman?”

Tang Shen looked at him in surprise, “What gave you that impression?”

Wang Zhen said seriously, “But I still need toipay attention.”

Tang Shen, “You hid it from me because you didn’t want me to know you were about to engage in corruption and harm loyal officials again?”

Wang Zhen held him and sighed, “How could I ever want to do such a thing!”

Three days later, during the morning court in Zichen Hall.

A fourth-rank censor in official robes stepped forward from the crowd, holding a jade tablet high and pulling a memorial from his sleeve.

“Your subject, Fang Weitong, has a matter to report.”

Zhao Fu looked at him, waved his hand, and signaled Ji Fu to bring the memorial to him. He asked, “What is it?”

Censor Fang lowered his head and remained silent, holding the memorial high above his head. When Ji Fu took the memorial and presented it to Zhao Fu, the emperor’s expression shifted as he read it, his anger barely contained.

Zhao Fu’s voice, heavy with suppressed rage, commanded, “Speak.”

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Only then did Fang Weitong loudly declare, “As a censor, it is my duty to oversee the court. I impeach Liu Ji, the governor of Xingzhou, for his grave crimes! Liu Ji’s offenses are too numerous to list. I have hastily outlined seven major crimes. First, his conduct does not match his virtue; he abused his scholarly achievements, gaining fame at a young age, but there are suspicions of hidden misdeeds! Second, Xingzhou’s lands lie barren…”

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Wang Zhen and Tang Shen immediately stepped closer.

Zhao Fu spoke slowly, “All of you, leave now.”

Ji Fu and the divine doctor, who had been standing by, responded with a “Yes,” bowed, and then left.

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Zhao Fu looked up at Tang Shen and Wang Zhen, his gaze finally settling on Wang Zhen. He smiled weakly, his voice frail, “Zi Feng, it seems you’ve been in Jiangnan for half a year this time.”

“Answering Your Majesty, I left for Jiangnan in October last year. It has been over five months now.”

“How did it go?”

Wang Zhen recounted the affairs of the Jiangnan Silver Bank in detail.

Zhao Fu listened and nodded gently. Finally, he said, “Do you resent me for giving the Jiangnan Silver Bank to Yu Chaosheng? If not for that, your work in Jiangnan would have been much smoother.”

Wang Zhen’s eyes flickered slightly. In the past, Zhao Fu would never have spoken to him about such matters of court politics. But this time, he brought it up. Wang Zhen bowed respectfully, his voice calm and gentle, “Your Majesty has your reasons. Among the thirty-six provinces of the Great Song, the Northern and Southern Zhili and the three provinces of Jiangnan are the most prosperous. The affairs of the Great Song Silver Bank are the most difficult to manage in these regions. With Your Majesty overseeing the two Zhili regions, I have no worries. If even Jiangnan were managed by Your Majesty on my behalf, I would be far too incompetent.”

“Oh, you.” Zhao Fu laughed heartily, but after a while, he seemed to run out of breath and stopped.

Then, Zhao Fu no longer spoke of court matters. Instead, he began to talk about his health. “During this bout of serious illness, I found myself in a grand and majestic hall amidst a chaotic fog. A stern-faced official sat there, slamming his gavel and asking me my name and why I had come.”

Tang Shen thought to himself: Did he see the King of Hell?

However, Zhao Fu’s words often carried deeper meanings.

The two continued to listen.

Zhao Fu said, “I answered him one by one. Then the official asked me if I had any merits. I was stumped. I pondered deeply and asked him, ‘What are merits, daren? Could you enlighten me?’ The stern-faced official told me that to answer for the lives of the common people and to achieve great deeds for future generations—these are the supreme merits.”

Zhao Fu sighed deeply, “But I have lived over sixty years in vain and have accomplished none of these!”

Wang Zhen and Tang Shen almost simultaneously bowed, speaking in unison.

“Your Majesty, please forgive our offense.”

“Your Majesty, please forgive our offense.”

Zhao Fu was taken aback. He looked at them, and after a moment, he smiled, “Truly, hearts that beat as one understand each other without words.”

Tang Shen said, “Your subject is guilty and begs Your Majesty’s forgiveness. But I also have something to say, and I beg Your Majesty’s permission to speak.”

“Go ahead.”

“Last year, when I went to Jinzhou on official business for the Ministry of Works to build a road, I heard a poem about Jinzhou. The poem went like this: ‘In Jinzhou, there is a fierce tiger, gluttonous for human flesh. In ten households, only one woman remains, weeping and asking where her family has gone.’ Jinzhou is located in the southwest, with rugged mountain paths that make communication with the outside world difficult. The poem speaks of a man-eating tiger in Jinzhou, causing the people to suffer, with nine out of ten households wiped out. Yet the outside world remains unaware.” Tang Shen clasped his hands and continued, “But when I went to Jinzhou this time, I did not see a desolate and impoverished land ravaged by tigers and wolves. Instead, I saw a prosperous and happy people, all because the nation is at peace and the people are secure.”

“Is this not the greatest merit of all?”

Zhao Fu’s smile deepened. He pointed at Tang Shen for a while, then finally laughed, “You, you always know how to make me happy. I’ve slept through the new year. Jing Ze, you must be twenty-three now.”

“Your subject is indeed twenty-three this year.”

“In the past, I could say it was just a young man sweet-talking me. But if you keep flattering me like this in the future, I’ll have to consider you a sycophant.”

Though he spoke of a crime punishable by the extermination of one’s clan, there was not a hint of reproach in Zhao Fu’s tone.

Tang Shen slowly raised his head and looked at the emperor on the bed. He saw a man weakened by illness, yet the majestic aura around him remained undiminished. But at this moment, he no longer seemed like a ruler but more like an elder. Tang Shen suddenly felt a pang of sorrow in his heart. He silently lowered his head and said nothing.

Zhao Fu spoke with Wang Zhen and Tang Shen for a while longer, but as he had just recovered from a serious illness, he was still weak and needed to rest. He called Ji Fu back in. Before the two left, he sighed and said to Wang Zhen and Tang Shen, “I wish to achieve great merits!”

Who in this world does not wish to leave a legacy that lasts for millennia?

Tang Shen solemnly replied to the emperor, “Your subject will not fail in this task.”

Wang Zhen and Tang Shen left the palace together. They did not speak much along the way, but when they reached the palace gates, they saw Grand Preceptor Zhou’s carriage. The carriage stopped in front of them, and Grand Preceptor Zhou lifted the curtain. He sat upright inside. Seeing Wang Zhen and Tang Shen, the old marshal nodded slightly.

“Lower officials Wang Zhen and Tang Shen greet the Grand Preceptor.”

“No need for formalities. Minister Wang is now the Senior Grand Secretary of the Left overseeing the Department of State Affairs, a first-rank official, the same as myself. There is no need to bow.”

Wang Zhen smiled slightly, “The respect I offer is not for the Grand Marshal of the Realm’s Military Forces, but for the Grand Preceptor.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou rarely showed a smile, but he nodded in approval. The carriage soon continued on its way into the palace.

Tang Shen thought to himself: Zhao Fu says I know how to flatter and sweet-talk, but compared to Wang Zifeng, I probably can’t even match one of his toes! Look at how effortlessly he delivers those compliments, without even batting an eye.

“Eh?” Suddenly, someone flicked his forehead. Tang Shen turned, “Senior Brother?”

Wang Zhen looked down at him, raising an eyebrow, “Are you secretly mocking me in your heart?”

Tang Shen replied righteously, “Of course not. Do you have any proof?”

Wang Zhen was amused by him, “Where did you learn this skill of being so righteous and utterly unashamed?”

“From you, of course.”

Wang Zhen sighed, placing a hand on his forehead, his voice filled with mock tragedy, “Such a misfortune for the family! The century-old reputation of the Langya Wang family might be ruined by the wife of its eleventh-generation direct descendant… hehehe, don’t fuss. We’re still in the palace.”

Tang Shen widened his eyes. So you do remember we’re still in the palace?!

The two walked out of the palace together. At the same time, Grand Preceptor Zhou entered Funing Palace.

In the second month of the thirty-fifth year of Kaiping, Zhao Fu woke up, but no one believed he would live much longer. Everyone knew it was the emperor’s final flicker of life. Zhao Fu had fought battles in his youth and suffered many injuries. Now, in his old age, even the Liao Emperor, who was a dozen years younger, was in declining health. That Zhao Fu had woken up at all was already unexpected.

Yet, against all odds, Zhao Fu not only woke up but, with the care of the divine doctor and the imperial physicians, his health gradually improved.

Even Tang Shen found it miraculous. Every winter, Zhao Fu seemed on the verge of death, as if he could pass at any moment. But as soon as spring arrived, he became lively again, as if he could live another hundred years.

Among the officials, some felt they had wasted their emotions, having grieved prematurely for the emperor’s impending death.

Who could have thought that the emperor would bounce back to life!

On the sixth day of the fourth month of the thirty-fifth year of Kaiping, the morning court resumed, and all officials paid their respects.

Standing at the front of the civil officials on the left was still Left Prime Minister Xu Bi. But this time, standing at the front of the military officials on the right was the Grand Marshal of the Realm’s Military Forces, Grand Preceptor Zhou!

This grand morning court should have been held in the first month, but it was delayed until now due to Zhao Fu’s unconsciousness. The officials reported on the achievements of the past year. After two full hours, the grand morning court finally concluded.

However, the very next day, Grand Preceptor Zhou left the capital and returned to Youzhou. But no one expected that Zhao Fu would have him take the Second Prince, Zhao Shang, with him!

When the imperial edict arrived at the Second Prince’s residence, Zhao Shang was also confused. He hastily received the edict and immediately summoned his advisors, “Mr. Meng, what is the meaning of this? I have never been to a military camp, let alone Youzhou. Why would His Majesty suddenly issue such an edict?”

The advisor, Mr. Meng, had no idea what Zhao Fu intended. He pondered deeply, “Your Highness, don’t panic. This might not be a bad thing. Since the edict has been issued, we cannot defy it. We must go to Youzhou. But for now, only you have received the edict, not the Fourth or Fifth Princes. This shows that His Majesty has special plans for you. Grand Preceptor Zhou is His Majesty’s most trusted person. Since you are accompanying the Grand Preceptor, perhaps great opportunities await you in Youzhou!”

Upon hearing this, Zhao Shang’s eyes lit up.

“Your words are wise. Please accompany me to Youzhou and assist me!”

“I will follow you to the death!”

Within a few days, Grand Preceptor Zhou set off for Youzhou with the Second Prince, Zhao Shang.

By the fifth month, the Department of Construction and Reform had achieved some results. Ji Mengwen, the director of the Department, wrote three memorials and sent them to Tang Shen’s desk. After reading them, Tang Shen immediately summoned him back from Southern Zhili.

That night, at the residence of the Right Prime Minister.

As the fifth month drew to a close, the pond was filled with blooming lotuses. The moonlight, like a veil, fell on the red lotuses, resembling a misty, ethereal fog.

The Right Prime Minister, Wang Quan, raised his cup to the moon, feeling inspired to recite poetry. He recited a poem about the moon by a past poet, then turned and said, “Zi Feng, why not compose a poem to add to the elegance of the moment?”

Wang Zhen swirled the white jade cup in his hand, his gaze clear and fluid, “Jing Ze once said something.”

“Oh? What did he say? Tell me.”

Wang Zhen, “He said, ‘You high officials are spending taxpayers’ money on lavish pleasures and carefree enjoyment.'”

“…En?”

Wang Zhen smiled, “He explained it to me like this: this phrase roughly means that while lost territories have not been recovered and the people are not yet prosperous, we high officials should not indulge in luxury and pleasure. Instead, we should work diligently, dedicating ourselves to the welfare of the people, even to the point of sacrificing our lives.”

“…”

The Right Prime Minister suddenly felt that his own fierce wife was quite lovely.

Of course, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Wang Quan had no understanding of the intimate dynamics between other lovers, nor did he know under what circumstances Tang Shen had said those words.

Wang Quan finished a pot of wine and turned to serious matters, “Why didn’t you bring Tang Jingze with you today?”

Wang Zhen paused, then calmly lowered his gaze, “The matters to be discussed today are not suitable for him.”

Wang Quan laughed, “What could it be? It’s just the usual scheming and framing. You’re already a treacherous official. It’s not your first time doing this, and it won’t be your last.”

Wang Zhen looked up at him, “I believe that this time, Uncle will play the leading role.”

Wang Quan coughed twice, pretending not to hear.

Wang Zhen raised his wine cup, intending to drink another round, but remembering that he had already drunk quite a bit tonight, he decided against it. If he drank too much, he might reveal something when he returned home. Ordinary women, scholars, or officials might not notice anything amiss in his words or actions, but his junior brother was different. The slightest slip, and Tang Shen would become suspicious.

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Wang Zhen suddenly asked, “Am I a good person?”

Wang Quan, already somewhat drunk, was helped by a servant to the inner courtyard. Before leaving, he said to Wang Zhen, “You handle things as you see fit!”

Wang Zhen couldn’t help but laugh. Losing interest, he also prepared to leave.

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When Grand Preceptor Zhou entered Funing Palace, no one else was allowed in. Even Ji Fu stood beside Tang Shen, waiting outside for a quarter of an hour before the palace doors opened from within.

Ji Fu hurried forward, smiling ingratiatingly, “Grand Preceptor, has His Majesty awakened?”

“Not yet.”

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Of course not. Grand Preceptor Zhou was just a man, not a god. Zhao Fu had been unconscious for so many days; how could he wake up just because he had returned? It was unclear why Ji Fu asked such a question, but he wore a concerned and troubled expression, “His Majesty has been unconscious for over twenty days, Grand Preceptor. What should we do? This servant is just a eunuch and has no ideas. But this servant always believes that His Majesty, as the true dragon Son of Heaven, will surely be fine.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou glanced at him, his voice firm and resolute, “Naturally.”

Ji Fu had been smiling so much that his face was almost stiff. Finally, Grand Preceptor Zhou shifted his gaze away from Ji Fu and looked at Tang Shen, who was standing nearby.

Tang Shen had already prepared himself. He bowed respectfully and said, “This lower official, Tang Shen, Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Works, greets the Grand Preceptor.” Without waiting for Grand Preceptor Zhou to ask, Tang Shen directly explained why he was there, “His Majesty has been unconscious for many days. Every day, Qinzheng Hall sends an official to stand guard outside Funing Palace. Today, it is my turn.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou, with one hand resting on the sword at his waist, stood tall and imposing. He said, “I have heard Jing De mention you before.”

Tang Shen replied, “This lower official has met General Li a few times.”

Grand Preceptor Zhou exchanged a few more words with Tang Shen, mostly questions from an elder to a junior, without showing any particular favor or disfavor. Just as suddenly as he had arrived, the Grand Marshal of the Realm’s Military Forces stepped into the snow, his boots leaving deep footprints behind.

Snowflakes settled on his cloak, and the wind howled, making the fabric snap and flutter.

Ji Fu patted his chest, still shaken, and exchanged a few pleasantries with Tang Shen before re-entering Funing Palace.

A snowflake drifted down from the eaves. Tang Shen reached out and caught it in his palm. His hand was warm, and the snowflake quickly melted. When Tang Shen looked up again, Grand Preceptor Zhou’s figure had already disappeared into the vast snowfall, no longer visible.

Grand Preceptor Zhou’s sudden return to the capital was no small matter and immediately drew widespread attention.

Tang Shen was also very curious, but with Wang Zhen still far away in Jinling and not yet returned to the capital, he had no one to ask. It wasn’t until the twenty-seventh day of the twelfth lunar month, when Wang Quan’s wife celebrated her birthday, that Tang Shen was invited to the Wang residence for a meal. After the meal, Wang Quan summoned several of his trusted confidants to his study.

Almost all the key members of the Wang faction had gathered in this small study.

Tang Shen didn’t quite count, as he wasn’t officially part of the Wang faction, but due to his special status, Wang Quan had invited him as well.

Once everyone had gathered, Wang Quan sipped his hot tea and began, “Grand Preceptor Zhou has returned to the capital. What are your thoughts on this?”

Everyone voiced their opinions.

“Grand Preceptor Zhou has been with His Majesty for many years. When His Majesty was still a prince, he studied under Li Mohe, the Grand Secretary of the Wenyuan Pavilion. However, Grand Secretary Li passed away thirty years ago. For His Majesty, Grand Preceptor Zhou is his true mentor and friend. This time, His Majesty’s headache came on so fiercely that it must truly be a critical moment for Grand Preceptor Zhou to return to the capital.”

“I also think so. This time, His Majesty might really…”

The speaker trailed off, but everyone understood the implication.

Wang Quan turned to Tang Shen, “I heard that on the day Grand Preceptor Zhou returned to the capital, it was your turn to be on duty in the palace?”

Everyone turned to look at Tang Shen.

Tang Shen stood up and saluted slightly, “Yes. That day, it was my turn to stand guard outside Funing Palace, and I happened to run into the Grand Preceptor.”

“Did you notice anything unusual, Tang daren?”

Tang Shen replied, “Nothing unusual. After the Grand Preceptor entered Funing Palace, he only stayed for a quarter of an hour before leaving.”

An official sighed, “That’s only natural. His Majesty is unconscious. What could the Grand Preceptor do even if he stayed? Sit by the bed and wait?”

Tang Shen added, “But the Grand Preceptor didn’t show any signs of extreme grief either.”

Wang Quan’s eyes lit up, “How do you mean?”

Tang Shen carefully analyzed the situation from that day and speculated, “The Grand Preceptor’s return to the capital couldn’t have been just to see His Majesty. The Grand Preceptor has been away fighting battles for years, and he and His Majesty have always understood each other as ruler and subject, with no rift between them. If His Majesty’s condition is truly as dire as you all say, beyond the help of medicine, the Grand Preceptor would surely be deeply distressed. But from the Grand Preceptor’s demeanor and words… it seems there might still be hope.”

Wang Quan asked, “What kind of hope?”

Tang Shen was at a loss for words. He truly couldn’t say!

Fortunately, Grand Preceptor Zhou didn’t keep them waiting for long. The next day, a renowned divine doctor was summoned to the palace to diagnose and treat Zhao Fu.

In the past, Tang Shen had also believed in the idea of great talents hiding among the common folk. Novels and TV shows often portrayed divine doctors who lived in seclusion in the mountains, only to descend and effortlessly solve problems that even imperial physicians couldn’t handle. But now, having seen more of the world and truly entered the inner circles, he realized that in this era, imperial authority was supreme!

If the emperor wanted something, there was nothing he couldn’t obtain.

Could some random “divine doctor” from who-knows-where really surpass the imperial physicians? That was pure fantasy. The imperial physicians in the Imperial Hospital were, in the eyes of the common folk, each a divine doctor in their own right.

But this divine doctor had been brought in by Grand Preceptor Zhou.

The officials were filled with doubt: Could this divine doctor truly be a hidden gem, capable of curing the emperor’s illness?

Everyone watched and waited. Soon, another New Year passed, and Zhao Fu still hadn’t awakened. The three princes remaining in the capital were like ants on a hot pan. Their hearts burned with anxiety, and many thoughts they had once entertained but later suppressed crept back into their minds like clinging parasites. They tried their best not to think about it, but how could they forget?

After the New Year, the three princes took turns entering the palace to attend to the emperor.

As it became clear that the emperor might not wake up, and with the state unable to function without a ruler for even a day, the officials in the court gradually began to form their own opinions.

On the second day of the second lunar month in the thirty-fifth year of Kaiping, the Spring Dragon Festival.

Tang Shen, dressed in a brand-new official robe, braved a cold spring rain to arrive at Qinzheng Hall. Spring rain was always silent and fine. Tang Shen had brought an umbrella, but it was of little use. The light rain dampened the hem of his robe. He tidied himself up slightly, and soon after, Xu Linghou, the Left Vice Minister of Revenue, arrived.

Seeing Tang Shen’s damp robe, Xu Linghou smiled and said, “Since there’s nothing urgent today, Tang daren, why don’t you head back to the Ministry of Works first?”

By “returning to the Ministry of Works,” he was essentially telling Tang Shen he could go home and have the day off.

In the past, Wang Zhen had often used the excuse of “returning to the Ministry of Revenue” during his duties to disappear to who-knows-where. For example, when Tang Shen first met Wang Zhen, the Minister of Revenue should have been on duty at the Ministry of Revenue, but instead, he had appeared at Fu Wei’s residence.

Xu Linghou was one of Wang Zhen’s most trusted confidants, even more favored than Qin Si. Tang Shen teased, “The officials of the Ministry of Revenue are all well-versed in this art!”

Unexpectedly, Xu Linghou looked surprised, “Is there someone else who often goes to the Ministry of Works?”

Tang Shen replied, “Your Minister, Wang daren.”

Xu Linghou laughed, “Isn’t he Tang daren‘s partner?”

Tang Shen: “…”

When it came to thick skin, he was no match for the officials of the Ministry of Revenue!

However, Xu Linghou was mistaken about one thing. Wang Zhen was hardly Tang Shen’s partner! Not only had they not shared a bed in a while, but they hadn’t even seen each other in nearly half a year! Wang Zhen had gone to Jinling and had been unable to leave, staying there for a full three months.

The two exchanged a few more words when a messenger hurried into the room.

Xu Linghou asked, “What’s the matter? Why the rush?”

The messenger replied, “Reporting to both daren, His Majesty has awakened! Prime Minister Xu has ordered us to inform all the officials in their offices to immediately go to Funing Palace.”

Tang Shen and Xu Linghou both opened their mouths slightly, equally stunned.

No one had expected that after being unconscious for two months, Zhao Fu would actually wake up!

Qinzheng Hall was located within the palace, so when the emperor awoke, the officials of Qinzheng Hall were the first to arrive at Funing Palace. However, no one was allowed inside because Grand Preceptor Zhou was speaking with the emperor inside. After nearly an hour, the chief eunuch Ji Fu came out to announce, “His Majesty summons Prime Ministers Xu, Wang, Chen, and Geng to enter the hall.”

The four prime ministers immediately entered the hall, and this time, they stayed for just over an hour before emerging.

The four of them had complex expressions on their faces. Xu Bi looked up at the more than twenty high-ranking officials from Qinzheng Hall waiting outside, among them his proud student Yu Chaosheng. Xu Bi waved his hand and said, “Everyone may return today. His Majesty has just awakened and is still unwell. Starting tomorrow, Qinzheng Hall will send two officials each day to stand duty at Funing Palace.”

Everyone responded in unison, “Yes.”

The officials all left, but Grand Preceptor Zhou remained in Funing Palace.

Although Zhao Fu had awakened, he was still bedridden and needed time to recover. However, the next day, an imperial edict was sent to Jiangnan: Zhao Fu summoned Wang Zhen back to the capital.

Four days later, Wang Zhen, the Senior Grand Secretary of the Left, returned to Shengjing, covered in dust.

Wang Zhen had returned to Shengjing in the morning, and that afternoon, Tang Shen received an edict summoning him to the palace for an audience with the emperor.

The two met again, this time in front of Funing Palace. Tang Shen looked at his senior brother, whom he hadn’t seen in half a year, with mixed emotions. The longing they felt couldn’t be conveyed through letters alone. Both of them gazed deeply at each other. Wang Zhen raised a finger to his lips and softly said, “Shh.”

Tang Shen’s lips curved into a smile, “Let’s go, Wang daren.”

The two exchanged a smile and stepped into Funing Palace together.

As soon as they entered the hall, Tang Shen was hit by a strong scent of medicinal herbs. Grand Preceptor Zhou was not in the hall. Ji Fu led Wang Zhen and Tang Shen into the bedchamber, where an elderly man with graying hair stood guard by the dragon bed.

“Your subjects Wang Zhen and Tang Shen pay our respects to Your Majesty.”

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

Zhao Fu’s condition was not as weak as outsiders might have imagined. At this moment, he was lying in bed, propped up by pillows, reading a memorial. Hearing their voices, he looked up. When Tang Shen saw his face, he was shocked: the emperor had become so thin!

Zhao Fu had never been this thin before. His cheeks were sunken, and his face was lined with more wrinkles. But his eyes were clear and bright. Seeing Tang Shen and Wang Zhen, he set the memorial aside and waved them closer, “Come closer. I don’t have the strength to speak loudly with you now.”

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