The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 459 This island is the territory that my ancestors fought and won with their blood; it belongs to China in terms of law and reason!

April of the second year of Jianxing.

The Silla Kingdom was surrounded by azure seas and rolling mountains.

In the coastal villages, fishermen set sail in their small boats as usual.

Women and children were collecting shellfish on the mudflats, creating a peaceful scene.

However, this tranquility was suddenly shattered.

Several oddly shaped and rather large ships appeared on the horizon.

With unfamiliar sails unfurled, they sailed straight toward the shore like sharks that had caught the scent of blood.

The boat reached the shallows and had not yet come to a complete stop.

Then there were countless soldiers who were short and stocky, with unusual hairstyles, and wore simple bamboo or leather armor.

A sharp whistle emanated from their mouths, surging down the ship like a tide.

They cut down anyone they saw, burned down any house they encountered, and looted food and property.

They even abducted women and children.

Cries and screams instantly replaced the usual fishermen's songs and the sound of the waves.

At first, local Silla officials thought it was just a case of ordinary pirates committing crimes and hurriedly organized local militia to resist.

However, they soon discovered that this group of "pirates" was numerous.

Although their equipment was not sophisticated, they were quite organized, their actions were swift and ruthless, and more ships continued to arrive in their place.

Their goal was clearly not just to plunder wealth, but also to conquer cities and seize territory!
Within ten days, several important coastal towns of Silla fell one after another, and war broke out everywhere.

The news spread like wildfire to Geumseong, the capital of Silla.

Inside the palace of King Geumseong, King Naehye Nishijin of Silla, upon hearing the news, abruptly rose to his feet.

His face turned ashen, a mixture of shock and anger:
"Japanese! It must be those Japanese traitors! They've gone too far!"

He recalled that more than 20 years ago, Japan also sent troops to harass the border of Silla.

Although small in scale, they were eventually repelled.

However, his wolfish ambitions are already obvious.

After years of silence, Japan has made a comeback with such ferocity!
"Your Majesty! The Japanese army is powerful and has captured several of our cities. Their advance is aimed directly at Jincheng!"

"The nation's situation is as precarious as a pile of eggs!"

An old minister tearfully reported this.

Chaos reigned in the hall, but Master Jie forced himself to remain calm and surveyed the assembled officials:

"Gentlemen, do you have any good strategies to repel the enemy?"

A military officer stepped forward and said angrily:
"Your Majesty! The Japanese pirates are rampant. I am willing to lead troops into battle and vow to defend Jincheng to the death!"

Another civil official, however, said with great concern:

"The general's bravery is commendable, but judging from the momentum of the Japanese this time, it is probably not comparable to the past."

"Our military strength was already insufficient, and repeated defeats have dampened morale."

"If we fight head-on, I'm afraid... I'm afraid Jincheng will be in danger!"

Just when everyone was at a loss, an older and prudent minister stepped forward and said:

"Your Majesty, I have a plan."

“Since the time of our late king, our Silla has regarded the emperor of the Central Plains as our suzerain.”

"The practice of submitting to the emperor and paying tribute has never ceased."

"Today, the Chinese empire is a powerful and prosperous nation, with a strong military and awe-inspiring influence throughout the land."

"Since we are a vassal state and are now facing such a great calamity, why don't we send envoys to the Celestial Empire to seek help?"

"This is exactly in accordance with the suzerain's duty to protect his vassals!"

The nun's eyes lit up:
"You are absolutely right! But... how should we ask for help?"

The minister, clearly having already considered the matter, calmly replied:

“Send an envoy quickly north to Lelang County of Han.”

"Zhang Hu, the Prefect of Lelang, is the descendant of a famous general and is in charge of the military and political affairs of the region."

"First explain the situation to them and request protection and reinforcements."

"Then the report will be submitted from Lelang County to the Pingzhou Prefectural Government, and finally it will reach the imperial court in Luoyang."

"Reporting through each level in this way is in accordance with etiquette and can also attract the attention of the imperial court."

"Very well! We shall do as you say!"

The nun immediately made a decision to select an eloquent and capable minister as the envoy.

Carrying official credentials and generous gifts, he hurried north to Lelang County.

Lelang County Government Office, in the Prefect's Mansion.

The governor of Lelang at that time was Zhang Hu, the son of Zhang Liao, a famous general of the Han Dynasty.

At this time, he was in his prime, and the air of a soldier had not yet faded.

He carefully read the letter of state presented by the Silla envoy.

Hearing the man tearfully recount the brutality of the Japanese pirates and the perilous state of Silla, he frowned deeply.

After a moment's hesitation, Zhang Hu put down the letter of credence and said to the Silla envoy:

"I am already aware of your country's situation."

"The Japanese are rampant and truly hateful."

"Of course..."

He then changed the subject, saying, "Although Lelang County borders your country, the decision to send troops across the border is not something that I, as the prefect of this county, can make."

"In my opinion, the King of Silla would be better off temporarily avoiding a confrontation."

"He led the royal family, important officials, and some common people to move into my Lelang County first."

"Our Lelang County is well-fortified, with strong and well-equipped troops and ample supplies, which is sufficient to protect you all."

"I will immediately report this matter to the imperial court and request an imperial edict to send reinforcements from Pingzhou so that we can then plan to recover your country's territory. What do you think?"

Upon hearing this, the Silla envoy's expression changed drastically, and he said urgently:
"Prefect Zhang, you are mistaken! My king is the ruler of a country."

"How can one abandon the state and its people, and flee to another country to avoid disaster?"

"If this policy is adopted, how can my king stand between heaven and earth, and what right do I have to be the king of Silla?"

"In Silla, the king and his subjects are of one mind, and we would rather die fighting for our country."

"We will never abandon our ancestral heritage, nor spare our land and people from suffering!"

Seeing his resolute attitude, Zhang Hu sighed:
Why must Your Excellency be so stubborn?

"Take temporary refuge, not give up, but a temporary expedient."

"Once the heavenly army arrives, we can restore our land."

The Silla envoy was agitated and his words became increasingly sharp:
"Prefect Zhang! We admire the strength of the Celestial Empire and have been its subjects for generations, paying tribute every year without fail!"

"Today, the vassal states under the Chinese dynasty are in trouble and are being invaded by barbarians."

"Can't the Celestial Empire even fulfill its most basic suzerain obligation of protecting tributary states?"

"Your country's military strength is unparalleled in the world, with a million soldiers and thousands of generals."

"Are we afraid of those Japanese devils in a corner of the East China Sea?"

Zhang Hu's expression darkened as he was questioned, and he said in a deep voice:
"It is not that the Celestial Empire fears the Japanese, nor that it is unwilling to protect you!"

"It's truly a limitation imposed by the system!"

"Liaodong and Lelang bear the heavy responsibility of protecting the northern frontier."

"Without an imperial edict, no soldier may move without authorization, let alone engage in cross-border military operations!"

"This is an ironclad rule, and I dare not disobey it!"

The Han Dynasty government under Li Yi's leadership was highly centralized.

Furthermore, the imperial court was very afraid of the border regions having their own armies and becoming too powerful.

In particular, Li Yi conquered Liaodong and half of the Korean Peninsula.

If the imperial court wants to strengthen its control over this area, it must station a large number of troops here.

This is a considerable financial expenditure, so Li Yi has always encouraged increasing revenue and reducing expenditure.

At the same time, the presence of heavy troops stationed on the frontier can easily lead to local separatism.

Even to the point of having an army and wielding considerable power.

Therefore, the imperial court strictly ordered that troops could only be mobilized on their own when facing foreign invasion.

Border troops must not be mobilized without authorization at any time.

"We can wait until Lelang's report reaches Luoyang before the court decides to send troops."

"The Japanese have already besieged Jincheng, and our country has even been destroyed!"

The Silla envoy argued with great distress.

Zhang Hu said helplessly:
"Therefore, this official advises you to seek refuge in Lelang for the time being!"

"It's not that I'm afraid of war, it's just that it's procedure!"

"However, if those Japanese dare to violate the borders of Lelang,"

A cold glint flashed in his eyes, and his tone was resolute.

"Without an imperial edict, I will personally lead an elite force."

"annihilate them all, leave no one alive!"

If the Japanese really attack Lelang, then Zhang Hu will naturally have a legitimate reason to fight.

However, if the Japanese didn't come, Zhang Hu really wouldn't dare to send troops without authorization.

Seeing Zhang Hu's resolute attitude, the Silla envoy knew it would be difficult to persuade him further.

He could only let out a long sigh, his tone filled with disappointment and bitterness:
"Alas... such is the nature of the Celestial Empire's system..."

"Is this rigid adherence to old rules without any ability to adapt?"

He bowed respectfully and said, "In that case, this foreign subject will take his leave."

"We only hope that the Celestial Empire can take pity on the plight of a small country and send reinforcements as soon as possible to save Silla from its dire situation!"

After seeing off the Silla envoy, a trusted aide couldn't help but mutter a complaint under his breath:
"My lord, Silla is but a tiny, insignificant country."

"These Japanese pirates dare to act so arrogantly in front of us!"

"Your words are so arrogant and you truly don't know your place!"

Zhang Hu glared at him and scolded:

"Stop talking nonsense! As the patriarch, you have the responsibility to protect your vassals."

"This matter concerns the prestige of the imperial court and the stability of the border regions. How can we disregard it simply because the country is small?"

"Go and prepare immediately, I need to draft a memorial right away."

"Send it directly to Luoyang by express courier, at a speed of 800 li!"

at the same time,

Luoyang, Weiyang Palace.

The atmosphere in the imperial court was equally somber.

Zhu Ying, a former official of the Wu Xuanhua faction, was being escorted by a special envoy sent by Zhang Wen, the governor of Yangzhou, and was prostrate on the ground.

He reported in great detail, as he knew it, the events surrounding Sun Quan's exile to Yizhou to Emperor Liu Shan and the entire court.

"...Sun Quan, the rebel chieftain, led several thousand of his remaining troops after his defeat at Moling."

"After sailing eastward across the sea and experiencing many storms, they finally arrived at the great overseas island of Yizhou."

"When he first arrived, he wanted to emulate Goujian and endure hardship and humiliation."

"However, Yizhou is a remote and desolate place with harsh soil and water conditions."

“The local people are fierce and do not submit to the king’s rule, and their power is gradually declining.”

"Although he now claims the title of 'King of the Barbarians,' he is actually confined to several strongholds along the northern coast."

"With fewer than ten thousand soldiers and only a few dozen ships, they barely survive by plundering and sporadic trade..."

Zhu Ying spoke with great emotion, and finally kowtowed, saying:

"Your Majesty! Sun Quan is a great enemy of the country. Although he has fled overseas, his name still exists."

"If we allow them to remain in their positions, things may change over time, or they may collude with petty criminals at sea to disturb our maritime borders."

"Your Majesty, I humbly request that Your Majesty dispatch heavenly troops to cross the sea and launch an eastern expedition to eradicate the threat completely and prevent future troubles!"

"I am willing to serve as your guide, even at the cost of my life!"

Upon hearing this, Liu Shan, seated on the throne, looked moved and sighed:

"Unbelievable... Sun Quan, the King of Wu who once dominated Jiangdong and stood as one of the three powers alongside my late father and the traitor Cao Cao."

"To think we've fallen to such a state, trapped on a desolate, isolated island."

"It truly evokes a myriad of emotions."

Seeing that Liu Shan seemed to have a sense of pity, Zhu Ying became extremely anxious and emphasized again:

"Your Majesty! You must not let the tiger return to the mountain because of a woman's compassion!"

Although Sun Quan was down on his luck, his ambition as a hero had not died.

"Furthermore, after more than ten years of development, Yizhou is no longer a completely barren land, if..."

"Zhu Ying!"

Before he could finish speaking, he was interrupted by a cold shout.

Chief Secretary Yang Yi stepped forward, his face stern, and rebuked:

"You are nothing but a traitor who surrendered to the emperor. How dare you speak recklessly about raising an army before the emperor and mislead his ears?"

He turned to Liu Shan, bowed, and said:

"Your Majesty, Yizhou is far overseas, a land of barbarians and miasma, and is uncivilized."

“Sun Quan was stranded here, like a fierce tiger lost in the wilderness.”

"No matter how sharp the claws and teeth, it is difficult to achieve anything."

"It no longer poses the slightest threat to our unified Central Plains."

"If we were to mobilize a large army and launch a long-distance expedition across the sea for such wretched creatures who are merely clinging to life, we would be wasting countless resources and money."

"To force the people of the southeastern coastal areas to relocate inland to avoid war is not a benevolent act, but rather an act that offends the will of Heaven!"

"In my opinion, this is absolutely unacceptable!"

Fei Yi also stepped forward to echo:
"...What Lord Yang said is absolutely right."

"Your Majesty, the world has just been pacified, and everything needs to be rebuilt."

"The most important thing is to improve the internal governance and allow the people to rest and recuperate."

"To conquer foreign lands across the sea, victory is not a sign of strength, but defeat would only damage the prestige of the nation."

"Moreover, it wastes the country's resources and does nothing to benefit the country or its people."

"Zhu Ying was only afraid of Sun Quan's revenge, and also wanted to use the power of the court to rescue his family who were trapped in Yizhou."

"His intentions are understandable, but his words are unacceptable!"

Zhu Ying's face flushed red after being refuted by Yang Yi and Fei Yi.

In particular, Yang Yi's rhetorical question, "Can Yizhou compare to the Central Plains?" left him speechless.

Even though Yizhou has undergone some development, how can it compare with the Central Plains, which is rich in natural resources and prosperous?

He opened his mouth, only to find that his biggest bargaining chip was the one he relied on to persuade the court.

They were so insignificant in the eyes of the other party.

Seeing that both senior ministers strongly opposed the idea, Liu Shan turned his gaze to Zhuge Liang, who had remained silent in thought:
"Prime Minister, what do you think of this matter...? What should we do?"

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan, his expression calm, and slowly spoke:

"Your Majesty, I wholeheartedly agree with what Lord Yang and Minister Fei have said."

“Sun Quan fled to Yizhou, which was tantamount to exile.”

"Its influence has waned, and its location has become remote."

"What is the official reason for this expedition across the sea?"

"If the goal is to eliminate the remnants of the previous dynasty, then they are no longer a concern."

"If it's for the purpose of expanding territory, what benefit would there be in acquiring the barbaric and desolate Yizhou?"

"Moreover, military action will inevitably disturb the people, and the people along the coast of Jiangnan will suffer the pain of migration."

"On the contrary, it is necessary to send officials and settle immigrants to the border, which costs a lot and yields very little benefit."

"Weighing the pros and cons, it is indeed not advisable to launch a major attack."

"It would be better to ignore it and let it live or die on its own."

"If they behave themselves, then there will be no trouble."

"If they dare to violate the border, it will not be too late to strike them with thunder."

Zhuge Liang's analysis was clear and logical, with a distinct advantage and disadvantage.

Liu Shan nodded repeatedly, while Zhu Yingze's face turned ashen.

Knowing that the hope of the imperial court sending troops was probably slim.

Just when the matter seemed to be settling down,

An aged yet still powerful voice resounded from outside the palace gates: —

"Your Majesty! Gentlemen!"

"In my opinion, Yizhou... is not only worth fighting, but deserves to be fought!"

Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw Li Yi, the former prime minister and grand marshal who had retired in glory.

They had been standing outside the palace gates for some time now, and were now slowly stepping into the palace.

Although he was dressed in ordinary clothes, his white hair was sparse.

Yet, the imposing aura of someone who has long held a high position and wielded power still captivates people.

In an instant, all eyes were on them.

Even Emperor Liu Shan focused his attention on this legendary figure of the empire.

The issue, which had almost been settled, was changed by his sudden appearance and his completely different viewpoint.

It has become confusing again.

Li Yi's voice was not loud, but it was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake.

Ripples spread throughout the Weiyang Palace.

In an instant, all eyes were drawn to him—astonished, puzzled, and searching.

Everyone's attention was focused on this elderly man, whose prestige had not diminished at all despite his retirement.

The civil and military officials, led by Zhuge Liang, were surprised.

However, they still maintained proper etiquette and bowed to Li Yi.

Emperor Liu Shan leaned slightly forward from his throne, his tone conveying respect and a subtle, almost imperceptible dependence:

"The Prime Minister has arrived! Quickly, offer him a seat!"

A clever eunuch had already moved a brocade stool and placed it next to the imperial steps, signifying its superior status.

Li Yi did not refuse and sat down calmly.

This scene deeply shocked Zhu Ying, who was kneeling on the ground, and he thought to himself:

"I have long heard that Li Yi held a highly respected position in the Han Dynasty, almost like a second father."

"Seeing it today, I know the rumors are true!"

"To be granted a seat before the Emperor is an unprecedented honor!"

After Liu Shan saw that Li Yi was seated, he wanted to recount the story of Zhu Ying again:
"Your Excellency, this matter is..."

Li Yi slightly raised his hand, interrupting Liu Shan's words.

His gaze swept calmly over Zhu Ying, and he said indifferently:
"Your Majesty, I have heard the general details of this matter outside the palace."

"I have come here to hear the opinions of His Majesty and the gentlemen."

Seeing that Li Yi already knew, Liu Shan revealed his thoughts in detail:

"After discussing with my ministers, we all agreed that Yizhou is far overseas and uncivilized."

"It was originally a natural place of exile."

“Sun Quan fled here, like a prisoner.”

"Its power has waned, and its location is remote."

"If the imperial court were to launch a major military campaign across the sea for this purpose, it would inevitably be a waste of resources and manpower, and the losses would outweigh the gains."

"I think it would be better to follow the ancient strategy of appeasement and send an envoy."

"To demonstrate the power and benevolence of the Celestial Empire, Sun Quan was granted the title of 'Governor of Yizhou'."

"Make them submit to our great Han and pay tribute."

"If they behave themselves and keep to their own ways, then they may be allowed to continue to exist in Yizhou."

"If they harbor ill intentions, it will not be too late to launch a military campaign against them."

"In this way, we can not only demonstrate the grandeur of the Celestial Empire, but also create a magnificent scene of all nations paying tribute."

"This would also spare the people of the southeastern coastal areas from the suffering of migration and war. What do you think, Your Excellency?"

"Your Majesty is wise!" "This is the way of a seasoned ruler to govern the country!"

"To pacify distant peoples is the way of the true king!"

As soon as Liu Shan finished speaking, Yang Yi, Fei Yi, and other ministers chimed in with their own words of agreement.

Clearly, a consensus has been reached on this decision.

However, Li Yi sat upright on the brocade stool, his brows furrowed as if covered with a layer of frost.

The faint outline of the Chinese character "川" (river) suggests that the person does not agree with it.

He did not directly respond to Liu Shan, but instead turned his gaze to Zhuge Liang, who stood quietly to the side, and asked in a deep voice:

"Kongming, do you also believe that Yizhou should not have been taken, and that Sun Quan should not have been attacked?"

Zhuge Liang sensed the questioning in Li Yi's gaze and felt a slight chill in his heart.

He gently waved his feather fan, carefully considered his words, and said slowly:
"When the Prime Minister inquires, I dare not remain silent."

"The Prime Minister has always advocated allowing the people to rest and recuperate, and not to start wars lightly. This is the foundation for a strong country and a prosperous people."

"Liangshi doesn't understand why they are so determined to conquer a remote and desolate island across the sea."

He paused, then continued to analyze the pros and cons:
"With the strength of our Han navy, conquering Yizhou should not be difficult."

"However, the difficulty lies in governance and in maintaining it long-term!"

“Yizhou is a land beyond the reach of civilization, and its people are fierce and do not submit to the king’s rule.”

"If the imperial court wants to have real control, it needs to send officials to garrison the area and send troops to guard it."

"Immigrants settled the land, and roads were built..."

"The manpower, material resources, and financial resources consumed here will probably be astronomical."

"Furthermore, the strait is a barrier, and the winds and waves are unpredictable, making communication inconvenient."

“If there is any change in the Central Plains, the court’s control will be slightly reduced.”

"This place will be the first to be affected and will fall out of control; it is unlikely that the imperial court can sustain this situation."

"What is gained is difficult to keep, and what is lost is difficult to manage."

"Why waste the nation's resources and cause hardship to the people in the southeastern coastal areas who need to provide soldiers and provisions?"

"I think we should let it fend for itself."

"The best option would be to adopt a policy of restraint and control."

Zhuge Liang's analysis was logically clear and hit the nail on the head regarding the current problems.

Hearing this, the ministers in the hall nodded repeatedly, and even Liu Shan showed a look of deep agreement.

After hearing this, Li Yi remained silent for a long time, and the atmosphere in the hall became tense for a moment.

He slowly raised his eyes, his gaze deep and unfathomable.

It's as if you can see through the palace walls and gaze into the unknown future.

Finally, he spoke slowly, his tone carrying a weight that transcended time:

"Kongming's words, based on the current national conditions and the people's strength, are indeed a mature and prudent view."

"Your concerns are also reasonable."

"I... do not blame you for your limited perspective."

He abruptly changed the subject, his voice rising sharply, carrying an undeniable certainty:
"However, what I think and consider is not limited to the gains and losses of the next ten or twenty years!"

"My vision needs to be broader!"

"I assert that Yizhou is by no means a desolate island that can be disregarded!"

"It plays a vital strategic role in the coastal defense of our great Han Dynasty."

"It is a natural barrier protecting our southeastern coastal gateway!"

The strategic importance of Yizhou's location is self-evident.

To be honest,

For China, the most perfect map is—

It is actually the begonia leaf from the Qing Dynasty's peak period.

Before the Qing Dynasty, although there were unified dynasties, they all had obvious shortcomings.

The Han Dynasty was the longest period of prosperity, lasting over four hundred years.

However, it did not rule the Mongolian Plateau, Northeast China, or the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

During the Tang Dynasty, it did not rule over most of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Northeast China, and its heyday lasted only a few decades.

After the An Lushan Rebellion, the territory shrank rapidly.

Although the Yuan Dynasty had a vast territory, far exceeding that of the Han and Tang Dynasties.

It effectively controlled the snow-covered areas, Mongolia, Northeast China, and south-central Siberia.

However, it did not govern the Western Regions, which at that time belonged to the Chagatai Khanate.

Only during the Qing Dynasty did all of China's traditional frontier regions come under its rule.

The Qing Dynasty successively unified Northeast China, entered the Central Plains, recovered Taiwan, subjugated the Khalkha, launched three campaigns against the Dzungar Khanate, pacified the Hui people, and pacified the snowy regions.

During the Qianlong era, the territory reached its peak of 1320 million square kilometers and remained stable for over a century.

The map is magnificent and full of beauty, which is what we know as the begonia.

The Outer Manchuria region, separated from Russia by the Outer Khingan Mountains, keeps Russia out of the icy wilderness of Siberia.

China now has two more coastal areas, the Sea of ​​Japan and the Sea of ​​Okhotsk, and an additional 12000 kilometers of coastline.

Heilongjiang now has a sea outlet.

Northeast China can leverage its advantageous geographical location to engage in trade with Japan and South Korea, thereby accelerating the rapid development of its economy.

From a geostrategic perspective, China can contain Japan from both the north and south.

As for the west, the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is also under Chinese control.

Separated by the towering Himalayas, it can effectively keep out forces from the other side of the mountain.

As Nehru, India's first prime minister, said:

"Whoever occupies that brown continent will hold a dominant position on the Asian continent."

The western region, in a narrow sense, was completely occupied by the Qing Dynasty, including the Seven Rivers region south of Lake Balkhash.

In other words, the Northwest, as the Chinese people call it, was under the jurisdiction of the Ili General of the Qing Dynasty.

The barrier formed by large lakes, deserts, grasslands, and the western section of the Tianshan Mountains makes the entire 220 million square kilometers of land in Xinjiang appear full and safe.

Of course, the most important part is still the Mongolian region.

Starting from Outer Mongolia, it could directly threaten North China, Northwest China, and Northeast China.

If we had Outer Mongolia, the defense front could be pushed thousands of kilometers north, threatening Siberia.

Therefore, theoretically speaking, the begonia leaf represents the most perfect map of China.

It has both strategic depth and strategic breadth.

There is land for farming.

Regardless of territory or coastline, it must have excellent strategic depth.

Furthermore, Yizhou's geographical location is similar to that of a satellite on the southeastern coast.

"To protect the coast?"

Yang Yi couldn't help but question Li Yi's argument.

"Your Excellency, the navy of our Great Han Dynasty traverses rivers and seas with unparalleled might."

"Now that the seas are calm and the rivers are clear, why would we need a desolate island to protect us?"

"Isn't this just gilding the lily?"

"Yes, Prime Minister, are you overthinking this?"

"How dare these barbarians from overseas threaten the maritime borders of our Celestial Empire?"

The ministers discussed the matter animatedly, all showing expressions of bewilderment.

Only Zhuge Liang paused slightly with his feather fan, a hint of surprise and uncertainty flashing in his eyes.
He stared intently at Li Yi and tentatively asked:

"The Prime Minister's intention... could it be that he is worried?"

"What kind of threats might there be in the future... from overseas?"

Upon hearing this, the entire hall fell silent!

Immediately, many ministers showed expressions of disbelief and even absurdity.

Overseas threats?

The vast ocean is turbulent with waves.

Aside from a few scattered pirates, what other threat could there be?
This is simply a fantasy!

Amidst a chorus of skeptical glances, Li Yi slowly nodded, his tone both ethereal and resolute:
"What is happening overseas... is still unknown."

"However, prevention is the foundation of a nation."

He stopped dwelling on vague future threats and instead began to elaborate on them concretely.

Even disregarding long-term considerations, let's just talk about immediate benefits.

"Yizhou occupies a strategic location on the East China Sea and controls the north-south shipping lanes."

"Obtaining this location would provide our navy with a springboard to venture into the open ocean, and our merchant ships with a safe haven for resupply."

"Although the place is currently wild and undeveloped, it is densely forested and the land is fertile."

"If managed properly, it can also become a land of plenty, alleviating population pressure in the southeast."

"This is a real benefit."

He looked at Zhuge Liang and responded to his concerns about things getting out of control:
"As for Kongming's concern that the Central Plains might face turmoil in the future, and Yizhou might get out of control..."

"How could I not know about this?"

"But should we throw the baby out with the bathwater?"

"What we can do is to act when the nation is at its peak."

"To incorporate this strategic location into the Chinese territory."

"Establish the foundation of rule and leave behind the legal basis!"

"Even if things get out of control in the future, I want all my Chinese descendants to know this—"

"Yizhou is an ancient part of China's territory, and it cannot be divided!"

"As for the matter of recapture,"

His tone was solemn, carrying a sense of boundless expectation for future generations.

"Then we must have faith in the wisdom and courage of future generations!"

"It is our responsibility to start this and lay its foundation!"

As Zhuge Liang listened to Li Yi's unprecedentedly grand narrative, his eyes gleamed.

It was clearly hit hard.

He murmured:

"The Prime Minister's intention... is actually that it lies in the future."

"A naval fleet, its importance will be comparable to or even surpass that of a land force? This..."

"The ocean is vast and boundless, containing endless opportunities, but also potentially harboring unknown risks."

Li Yi said meaningfully, "For people like us, the sea may seem distant and unfamiliar."

"But it is precisely because of its remoteness that we need to be even more in awe of it."

"Precisely because it is unfamiliar, it is all the more necessary to have the strength to brave the storms and protect the sea frontier!"

"How can we be complacent and regard the vast sea frontier as an easy road just because we cannot see it?"

Although Liu Shan, sitting on the throne, did not fully understand the profound meaning of the conversation between Li Yi and Zhuge Liang.

But he keenly noticed one thing:

The Prime Minister's mind is made up; he will take Yizhou!
He immediately stated:
"Your Majesty's wisdom and foresight are beyond my reach!"

"Since the Prime Minister considers Yizhou so important, I will certainly give it my full support!"

"Exterminate the Sun family and incorporate Yizhou into our territory!"

"good!"

Li Yi nodded, then turned his gaze to Zhu Ying, who was dumbfounded by the reversal of the situation.

“Zhu Ying, you are familiar with the geography and hydrology of Yizhou, and you have had many contacts with the Sun family.”

"This advance into Yizhou involves tasks such as route planning and intelligence gathering."

"You will be in charge of this, and you must be thorough and meticulous!"

Zhu Ying had already given up hope, but unexpectedly, things took a turn for the better.

He not only persuaded the court to send troops, but was also entrusted with such an important task!

He was so excited that he trembled all over, tears streaming down his face, and repeatedly kowtowed:

"This humble subject, Zhu Ying, thanks Your Majesty for your great kindness! Thanks to the Prime Minister for your trust!"

"I will certainly do my utmost, however dull or incompetent, to repay Heaven's grace!"

Just as the court was turning its attention to Li Yi's words and began preparing for the eastward expedition across the sea.

Suddenly, hurried footsteps sounded outside the hall, and an official from the Court of State Ceremonial held an urgent document with a feather inserted in it.

He hurried inside and announced loudly:
"Your Majesty! Urgent dispatch! 800 li!"

"Zhang Hu, the Prefect of Lelang County in Liaodong, urgently reports!"

“The Silla Kingdom, a vassal state of our dynasty, has sent an envoy to report an emergency.”

"They claimed that their country was being invaded by a large-scale Japanese invasion from overseas, and that the situation was critical. They earnestly requested that the Celestial Empire send reinforcements to protect them!"

These words caused an uproar in the court that had just calmed down!
Unlike the conquest of the isolated Yizhou, the mission was to rescue the vassal state of Silla.

The entire court reached a consensus almost instantly.

The sense of responsibility and honor of the Celestial Empire prevailed at this moment.

"Your Majesty! Silla is a vassal state of our Great Han."

“They paid tribute every year, showing utmost respect.”

"Now that we are being invaded by barbarians, if the Celestial Empire sits idly by and does nothing, wouldn't that chill the hearts of the surrounding vassal states?"

"The tiny and insignificant Japanese nation dares to offend our imperial majesty and invade our vassal state; they must be severely punished!"

"Your Majesty, I implore you to swiftly dispatch elite troops from Liaodong to cross the sea and rescue Silla, thus displaying our nation's power beyond the borders!"

The crowd was in high spirits and demanded that Silla be rescued first, as the matter of Yizhou could be postponed.

Seeing the general consensus, Liu Shan turned to Li Yi again and asked:

"Prime Minister, look at this..."

The lines between Li Yi's brows deepened, clearly indicating that he was making an intense internal struggle.

His gaze swept over the indignant officials, and seemed to see beyond them to a more distant place.

Finally, he sighed almost inaudibly, his tone carrying a hint of helplessness and resolve:

"...that's fine."

“Silla’s request for help concerns the prestige of the suzerain ruler; we cannot refuse.”

"Then...we'll first aid Silla, then we'll take Yizhou."

The court meeting ended, and the officials left with their own thoughts.

Zhuge Liang deliberately slowed his pace, waiting until everyone had gone far before walking alongside Li Yi.

"Prime Minister,"

Zhuge Liang's tone carried an unprecedented sense of inquiry.

"Today in the court, you said that our vision is limited."

"After returning home, Liang pondered deeply and realized that he had set his sights on the next two hundred years."

According to Liang's calculations, within two hundred years, Yizhou will be a part of the Central Plains.

"It is unlikely that it will provide the 'strategic role' mentioned by the Prime Minister."

"I wonder how far into the 'long term' you speak of, Prime Minister?"

Li Yi stopped and looked at the vast sky beyond the palace walls, slowly uttering a sentence:
"What if we look at...two thousand years from now?"

"Two...two thousand years?!"

Even with his exceptional wisdom and resourcefulness, Zhuge Liang was still taken aback upon hearing this and was stunned on the spot!

This was completely beyond his imagination!

"The tide of the times rolls ever onward."

"The future changes are beyond our comprehension today."

Li Yi's tone was solemn, "Indeed, I can assert that."

"The strategic importance of Yizhou will only increase over time!"

"It is not that I do not know that what I take today may be lost tomorrow."

"However, taking it is to leave a mark and plant a seed!"

"We must let future generations know that this island is the territory that our ancestors fought and won with their blood."

"Both legal principles and moral considerations belong to China!"

"No matter what setbacks may occur, this resolve must not waver!"

"This is what we can do for future generations!"

Zhuge Liang stared blankly at Li Yi, as if he were truly getting to know this great man who was both his teacher and friend for the first time.

After a long silence, he bowed deeply:
"I only understand the Prime Minister's profound meaning today."

"It is for the sake of future generations, not for the sake of short-term gains or losses."

Lee Ik nodded slightly, then turned to the matter of Silla:
"As for rescuing Silla, it is not entirely without benefit."

"Japan...the imperial court knows very little about it."

"This opportunity may allow us to see through their true intentions and strengthen our ties with other countries overseas."

"Broadening one's horizons is never a bad thing."

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Liang's heart stirred.

Recalling Li Yi's consistent advocacy for expanding maritime trade and strengthening foreign relations, he couldn't help but tentatively ask:

"The Prime Minister seems... particularly persistent about matters overseas?"

"Could it be that there is something overseas that fascinates the Prime Minister so much?"

A fleeting thought even crossed his mind.

Could it be that Prime Minister Li, who holds a high position and is already old, is like the First Emperor of old?

Is he secretly harboring the desire to explore overseas immortal mountains and seek immortality?
Li Yi was a man of great stature, and he immediately saw through Zhuge Liang's thoughts.

He couldn't help but smile and teased:
"Kongming, do you perhaps think that I wish to follow the story of Xu Fu and seek that elixir of immortality?"

He suppressed his smile and said seriously:
"What I hope for is to break the self-imposed isolation of the Chinese people who believe that 'China is the Celestial Empire and has everything'!"

"We must let the world know that there is also a vast world overseas."

"Exotic products, a unique civilization!"

"Only by knowing yourself and your enemy can you truly remain invincible!"

"If we remain obsessed with the old dream of the Central Kingdom, one day we will be abandoned by the times!"

Zhuge Liang was shaken once again:
"Prime Minister... is this also for the sake of the future 'two thousand years from now'?"

"Is it... too far away?"

"It is indeed far away, far beyond what ordinary people can imagine."

Li Yi readily admitted it, but his gaze remained firm.

"I do not expect to change people's perceptions overnight."

"However, the important thing is to first plant the seeds of this idea of ​​'crossing the sea' and 'opening one's eyes'."

"Give it time, and let it weather the storms, and it will eventually sprout roots."

"This is another thing we can do for future generations."

After saying this, Li Yi said no more.

Leaning on his cane, he walked slowly out of the palace.

The setting sun cast a long shadow of him onto the white marble steps.

Although his back was slightly hunched, it seemed to carry a heavy dream that spanned a thousand years.

Zhuge Liang stood still, watching the receding figure.

My heart was filled with turmoil, and I couldn't calm down for a long time.

He had a vague feeling that Li Yi's words and actions today were...

This vast empire is quietly being steered toward a completely different future.

Perhaps it was under the influence of intellectual trends like those of Li Yi.

The Chinese people may indeed seek a path overseas in the future.

But that all happened later.

……

(End of this chapter)