A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 253 I Can't Remember Many Names
Cao Liyong, who was listening to the proceedings, harbored some doubts.

Did my good son-in-law do this?

Based on my understanding of his audacity, that seemed to be his style.

Cao Liyong glanced at Cheng Kan again. Could this man who wanted to marry his daughter have been eyeing Song Twelve all along?
Is it because he lost face that day that he holds such a grudge?
However, Cao Liyong approved of Li Zhaoshu, and he did not think that Li Zhaoshu would introduce him to a son-in-law with such a vindictive nature.

Although we are not related by marriage, our goodwill remains.

Cao Yong couldn't understand it, but since Song Xuan hadn't sent anyone to tell him, what if it wasn't him?

There's no need to make a fuss!

……

Zhao Yuanyan showed great intelligence as a child.

Emperor Taizong of Song was very fond of him.

He was always by the side of the imperial court at every banquet.

Moreover, Zhao Kuangyi did not want his eighth son, Yuan Yan, to leave the palace too early.

He was specially granted permission to leave home at the age of twenty, and also because he was the eighth son.

Therefore, he was known in the palace as the Twenty-Eight Protectors.

When Emperor Zhenzong ascended the throne, the Eighth Prince Zhao Yuanyan's official position rose higher and higher, eventually becoming a nominal vice prime minister.

However, after Emperor Zhenzong passed away, he remained treacherous and attempted another scheme, which also failed.

They were afraid that Liu E would find fault with them.

Therefore, Zhao Yuanran claimed to the public that he had a mental illness and was unable to attend court to discuss politics.

However, Emperor Zhao Zhen also bestowed honors upon him.

After all, he was the only normal person left among his father's brothers.

Zhao Yuanzuo, who should have been the crown prince, went insane after hearing the news of his third uncle Zhao Tingmei's death in Fangzhou and was unable to attend court.

Now, Zhao Yuanzuo, the son who looks most like Zhao Kuangyi, is imprisoned in the Southern Palace of Tokyo.

Zhao Yuanyan also followed his older brother's example.

The only difference is that one of them genuinely fell ill due to excessive mental stress, while the other was faking it.

Zhao Yuanran remained in this stable position for several years.

However, Zhao Yuanran did not attend court.

This does not mean that he could not keep abreast of the developments in the central government.

Having just been impeached by Imperial Censor Cheng Kan, Zhao Yuanran learned of the whole affair.

He felt very gratified to see his third brother, Zhao Yundi, reading peacefully in the study in the morning.

I never expected it would cause such a disaster.

Sure enough, when a child is quiet, they must be up to no good.

Zhao Yuanyan pushed open the door, whip in hand.

glare.

Zhao Yundi jumped up like a rabbit.

"Father, what are you doing?"

"Good question!"

Zhao Yuanran raised his riding whip and pointed it at his son:
"Tell me, what did you do yesterday?"

Zhao Yundi dared not tell the truth.

Especially since we reconciled with that person yesterday.

"I just strolled around the streets, I didn't do anything."

"Did not do anything?"

Zhao Yuanyan was so angry that he kept cracking his whip; he was so furious that he lost his mind.

"You've already found out, and you're still trying to hide it from me!"

Snapped.

"Rebel!"

Zhao Yuanyan flicked his whip and chased after Zhao Yundi.

"Father, Father."

Zhao Yundi begged for mercy, and his younger brother Zhao Yunchu also clapped along.

After all, it's not a common sight for a father to beat his son.

The imperial clansmen had no pressure to survive.

Eating and drinking well all day long is really boring, and everyone wants to find some fun.

"Good good."

Finally, after being stopped and persuaded by the princess, Zhao Yundi knelt on the ground and honestly recounted what had happened.

Zhao Yuanyan swayed unsteadily upon hearing this.

Snapped.

Another lash struck his shoulder, making Zhao Yundi wince in pain.

"Do you still know it hurts?"

Zhao Yuanyan pointed at his son with his riding whip:
"You treat a lowly Hu woman that others don't want like a treasure."

"Getting into a fight over a girl in the street, what a disgrace!"

Even if you do it secretly!

"Pah, shameless! I kept the door closed!"

"Even if you spend a little money, it won't cost much!"

Zhao Yuanyan became increasingly angry as he spoke:

"There are plenty of girls in Tokyo, and they're doing this in front of so many people."

"Pah, disgusting, you really disgust me!"

"Don't you know that people in Tokyo love to gossip?"

"Who knows what rumors will be circulating on the streets in a couple of days!"

"I think you've been living too comfortably these past few years, forgetting that there's still a sword hanging over your head!"

The princess glanced at her husband but said nothing.

Zhao Yuanran truly hated his son for being so disappointing.

Even if there are some facts that allow members of the imperial family to be above the laws of the Song Dynasty, you still have to do it behind closed doors!

If you incur the wrath of the masses, see if the emperor will punish you.

Those with minor offenses are demoted and locked up to reflect on their actions.

The most serious cases involve stripping you of your official status and exiling you to Shamen Island.

Zhao Yundi felt extremely wronged.

He hadn't even had a chance to watch the orchid dance performance yet!
That's such a loss.

Wherever there are Orchid dancers, there's only a simple shed, and they even use curtains to cover their dancing.

There's no way to get through!

Very simple.

The circumstances surrounding the closing of the door are completely unfounded, as my father said.

"Your Highness, it's just a trivial matter."

The princess patted his chest to help him catch his breath: "Don't do that."

"Little things?"

Zhao Yuanran's voice changed:

"That little brat actually dared to openly declare that he doesn't respect the laws of the Song Dynasty. He doesn't understand the principle that trouble comes from the mouth, do you not understand?"

In truth, the princess felt it was no big deal; her husband was just being overly sensitive.

The laws of the Song Dynasty were truly ineffective in controlling the imperial family members.

That's governed by the laws governing the imperial clan.

As long as Yundi doesn't rebel, a life of wealth and honor will be no problem.

Zhao Yuanyan could tell from the princess's expression that she hadn't taken it to heart.

It's true what they say, a doting mother spoils her son!
"Get out of my way. I'm going to teach him a lesson so he won't be so arrogant and cause trouble outside, which would implicate us."

"Your Highness, why make such a fuss over nothing?"

Hearing the princess's objection, Zhao Yuanran had unspeakable bitterness in his heart:
"That one in the palace is waiting to teach me a lesson, have you forgotten?"

The princess did not think that Empress Dowager Liu was such a ruthless person who would dare to imitate Wu Zetian in slaughtering members of the imperial family.

“Father, I truly did my best to make amends. That man said he wouldn’t pursue the matter further, and he didn’t even go to beat the drum to appeal to the emperor. How could he go back on his word?”

"Go back on your word?"

Zhao Yuanran was speechless at the antics of his foolish son.

I was so angry that I laughed.

News spreads in Tokyo at a speed you can't even imagine.

"Then let me ask you, did you personally admit that I am the Eighth Prince?"

Hearing his father's question, Zhao Yundi nodded repeatedly.

He was surprised to find that his father's reputation was so widespread among the people, so he readily acknowledged it.

"Good heavens!"

Zhao Yuanyan looked up at the sky and sighed, feeling that his life was miserable.

With so many sons dead, how come only a few idiots were left?
Back then, he even dreamed of inheriting the throne.

Even if he himself wasn't incompetent, handing over the Song Dynasty to such a descendant would make him an incompetent ruler, leading the Song Dynasty to its downfall.

Thinking of this, Zhao Yuanyan kicked Zhao Yundi, who was kneeling, to the ground:

"Still calling him the Eighth Prince?"

"I'll f*** your mother's head!"

clap clap.

Zhao Yuanyan then unleashed another flurry of blows, causing Zhao Yundi to scream incoherently.

At this point, the fourth brother, who had been watching the commotion, also stepped forward to stop them. If the fighting continued, it wouldn't be entertaining anymore.

When Zhao Yuanran was completely exhausted, he collapsed into his youngest son's arms:
"Why have I been pretending to be mentally ill all these years? Do you think I want to imprison myself?"

“The world outside has changed. The Zhao family is no longer in charge. You all need to be careful.”

After Zhao Yuanran finished speaking, he couldn't help but burst into tears:
"Father doesn't want to see you die so young, or be stripped of your status and removed from the family genealogy, and go elsewhere to suffer for the rest of your lives."

Zhao Yundi panicked, ignoring the pain in her body:
“Father, I really mean it, I didn’t mean it.”

Actually, it's alright that Zhao Yuanran keeps losing his temper.

But then she burst into tears.

"Your father can't save you now. Let's wait until the head of the Imperial Clan Temple arrives. Lu Daozong is an honest man. If you obediently admit your mistakes, perhaps being dismissed from your post would be the greatest blessing."

Zhao Yundi stood there dumbfounded, at a loss for what to do.

All you want is to see a Hu woman dance?

How did things develop into this outcome?

The princess panicked when she heard her husband crying:
"My son, do you know that person's name?"

"I don't know. He never revealed his name. He was quite robust, handsome, and dressed in fancy clothes. He spoke with a strong accent from out of town and was definitely not a native of Tokyo."

"If I were a local, who would dare not give me some face?"

Zhao Yuanyan looked at his son, Zhao Yundi, whose voice grew softer and softer, showing no trace of his arrogance:

“But when I sent someone to follow him, I found that he was living in the home of Zhang Qi, the Privy Councilor.”

"Zhang Qi?"

Zhao Yuanyan felt dizzy and disoriented.

He is not far from being removed from the family genealogy.

Throughout the entire imperial court.

Who was more trusted by that person than Zhang Qi?
They truly showed kindness even when they were still struggling.

Although the young man's name was unknown, his relationship with Zhang Qi must have been much closer.

Otherwise, even if Zhang Qi had more than 700 houses, not just anyone could live in them.

"Father, don't always scare yourself. What if nothing happens?"

The fourth brother, Zhao Yunchu, tried to persuade him from the side:

"The current emperor is mild-mannered and would not do anything detrimental to the Song imperial family."

"Yeah, so what?"

Although the princess was also frightened, she thought of the current emperor's personality.

Even if Empress Dowager Liu showed no mercy, the final decision on matters concerning the imperial clan rested with the emperor.

Empress Dowager Liu was at least not qualified in name.

At worst, we'll just expose that whole thing!

She simply couldn't believe that the emperor wouldn't harbor any resentment.

Zhao Yuanran understood what his princess wanted to say and immediately glared at her angrily.

The princess, realizing her mistake, quickly turned her head away.

The two sons, however, did not notice.

"That's all."

Just as Zhao Yuanyan was feeling sad and distressed, Lu Daozong, the Director of the Imperial Clan Court, arrived.

He personally investigated the matter, but could not find out who said that a member of the imperial clan was not worthy of the surname Zhao.

So he came to the Prince's Mansion to ask Zhao Yundi for advice.

Upon hearing that Lu Daozong had arrived, Zhao Yuanran immediately ordered the central gate to be opened.

He greeted them in the front hall and sent his two sons to fetch them.

The other, slightly older son, is currently on duty outside.

Even though you don't have real power, you still have to show it.

Lu Daozong simply nodded; to be honest, the positions of all of the Eighth Prince's sons were below his.

Only when they arrived at the front hall did Lu Daozong bow to the Eighth Prince.

The mental illness that the Eighth King suffered from was Schrödinger's mental illness.

His condition fluctuates, depending entirely on his own control.

Lu Daozong first explained his purpose and inquired about the course of events.

"You unfilial son, quickly explain the situation to Lu Sizheng!"

He had just noticed the whip marks on Zhao Yundi's body, so the Eighth Prince must have known about this beforehand and had already taken action to punish him.

However, Lu Daozong believed that he should still inform the Emperor of the entire process verbatim.

This is his responsibility.

Little did they know that the Emperor had already obtained the details, and that sending the Imperial Censor Cheng Kan was a way to put a warning to the imperial clansmen.

Do not tarnish the royal family's reputation in Tokyo.

Especially those who disregarded the laws of the Song Dynasty, leaving Song Xuan speechless after his rebuttal.

If this information is widely disseminated and left unchecked, who will be willing to follow the laws of the Song Dynasty?

This is a matter of trust.

What does this person look like?

Lu Daozong stroked his beard and asked, "What is your name?"

"The man was extremely robust, and although his name was unknown, he was handsome!"

Zhao Yundi's answer made Lu Daozong raise an eyebrow.

You've caused such a huge mess, and no one even knows who got you into this mess.

Then you really deserve it!

Not a bit unjust.

Lu Daozong felt that the student had turned the tide with just a few words and firmly grasped the initiative, leading Zhao Yundi into the trap time and time again, which could be described as a series of deadly moves.

I wonder whose child is this, to be so outstanding!

"You don't know anything?"

“I sent someone to follow him and rent a room in the home of Privy Councilor Zhang Qi.”

Zhao Yundi quickly revealed the only information she knew.

Lu Daozong stroked his beard and thought for a moment.

Was Cheng Kan's first impeachment at the behest of the Empress Dowager?

After all, it's too easy for people to make those connections.

"Since that's the case, I won't bother you any longer. This matter must be thoroughly investigated and left to His Majesty's decision."

Lu Daozong stood up and looked at Zhao Yuanyan, who appeared somewhat old-fashioned:

“When Prince Ding is not ill, he should still properly instruct his children and children, and there are some things he should not say carelessly.”

"Thank you for the reminder, Your Majesty. I will certainly discipline you more strictly from now on."

After Lu Daozong left, Zhao Yuanyan finally breathed a sigh of relief.

Fortunately, the man was renting a room in the home of Privy Councilor Zhang Qi.

This led Emperor Lu Daozong to believe that he had been instructed by Empress Dowager Liu to cause this incident.

As the one who always criticized Empress Dowager Liu, Lu Daozong immediately suspected Liu E.

She was just a woman, and she wasn't very shrewd.

Before his death, Emperor Zhenzong of Song told Empress Liu that Emperor Daozong of Lu was loyal and could be of great use. After Empress Liu took over the court, she indeed made great use of him.

Even though Lu Daozong repeatedly criticized her, Liu E only sulked and did not retaliate against him.

Following the directions given by Zhao Yundi's servant, Lu Daozong arrived at the place where Song Xuan was renting a room.

dong dong dong.

"I'm coming."

Wang Bao opened the door with a smile, thinking that Zhang Fangping and others had arrived.

To my surprise, it turned out to be an old man.

"You've gone to the wrong place, haven't you?" Wang Bao's smile vanished instantly, and he immediately became wary.

"That's right."

Lu Daozong looked at the person who opened the door. He was indeed very strong and dressed in fine clothes, but he wasn't very handsome.

He immediately spoke:
"I am Lu Daozong, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Vice Chancellor, Academician of the Longtu Pavilion and Lecturer, and concurrently Director of the Court of Imperial Clan Affairs. I have come to speak with you."

"You want to talk to me?"

Wang Bao's face was full of question marks:

"You've got the wrong person, I don't know you."

"Yesterday you were the one who angrily rebuked Zhao Yundi, a member of the imperial family, at the Hu Shangdu Tavern. Do you even deserve to bear the surname Zhao?"

"not me."

Upon hearing this, Wang Bao was about to close the door when he heard:

"and many more."

Lu Daozong stuck one foot out and wedged it in the door crack:
"If it's not you, who is it?"

"Then don't worry about it." Wang Bao tried to force the door shut.

"If you turn me away, the soldiers will come instead."

Upon hearing this, Wang Bao raised an eyebrow, recalling Song Xuan's instructions.

Many things don't escalate to the point of a life-or-death struggle.

Don't be overly sensitive.

"Then tell me your name, I need to report to my master."

"I am Lu Daozong, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, Vice Minister of State Affairs, Academician of the Longtu Pavilion and Lecturer, and concurrently Director of the Court of Imperial Clan Affairs. I'd like to speak with your master."

"There are too many titles, I can't remember them all!"

Wang Bao was quite perplexed about the official positions available to Song Dynasty officials.

I wonder if someone can handle multiple jobs?

“You only said that Lu Daozong came to visit.”

Lu Daozong was surprised that even his servants were dressed in such fine clothes, and he became even more curious about the person behind them.

"Row."

Wang Bao gestured for him to lift his leg away and then closed the door.

Emperor Lu Daozong became increasingly certain that this son had a close relationship with Zhang Qi, the Privy Councilor.

Otherwise, how could his servants be so arrogant?

They dared to turn away a prime minister and even tried to forcibly expel him.

Song Xuan was practicing his essay writing in his room, hoping to maintain his momentum during the exam.

Although the reform of the imperial examination system was beneficial to him, he still had to prepare for the exam with all his might.

"Twelfth Brother, an old man named Lu Daozong is looking for you. He mentioned a lot of official titles, but I can't remember them all."

"Lu Daozong? Never heard of him?"

Song Xuan didn't even look up.

Perhaps he was a friend of Yan Shu?

"Please come in. Since he's an old man, pour him a cup of tea and tell him to wait a moment."

"Yes."

Then Lu Daozong followed Wang Bao through the door.

There weren't many people in the courtyard.

The servants were all sitting alone, and there was nothing for them to do.

The owner seems to be a kind-hearted person.

Upon entering, Lu Daozong noticed the person writing and stood up to bow respectfully.

"My name is Song Xuan. I am currently taking a mock exam and was unaware of Lord Lu's arrival. Please forgive my ignorance and have a seat for a while."

Lu Daozong carefully examined Song Xuan.

That's more like it!

Zhao Yundi's description is quite accurate. It's not obvious when he's sitting down, but when he stands up, he gives off a completely different vibe.

Lu Daozong sat to one side, and the tea he drank was also unusual; it wasn't the kind of tea made from fine tea leaves.

Moreover, he was certain that this scholar named Song Xuan did not recognize him.

Lu Daozong found the person, but he wasn't in a hurry. Instead, he carefully recalled the events.

He suddenly felt that the name was somewhat familiar.

Song Xuan, Song Twelve?

Yan Shu mentioned that this was the same person involved in the Dou Chou case.

No one expected that Dou Chou, a man of high rank comparable to a prime minister, would be no match for a mere scholar and would choose to commit suicide.

But that wasn't the end of it. In addition, the Dou family got involved in a murder case, which led to their complete downfall and exile.

Then there's the memorial from Liu Ye, the prefect of Henan Prefecture.

It is said that he was able to exchange some warhorses with the Uyghurs because of the idea suggested by the scholar Song Xuan, which he seized the opportunity for.

Dare to think and dare to do.

The civil officials of the Song Dynasty truly possessed this potential.

Then, when Gengshi thought about how the foreign merchant and his concubine had come to Tokyo with the army, he made Lu Daozong understand the connection.

This Song Twelve is truly skilled.

Lu Daozong only thought about it in his heart and did not say anything to disturb him.

He achieved his current status only because he passed the imperial examination.

Because he lost both his parents at a young age and lived in his maternal grandfather's house, all of his uncles were military men.

But the fact that the people around him practiced martial arts did not affect him.

Lu Daozong studied even harder and finally passed the imperial examination.

Today, as he watched Song Xuan self-monitoring his "exam," he vaguely saw a reflection of his own diligent self from back then.

pity.

Youth is gone.

“fu”.

After a while, Song Xuan finally breathed a sigh of relief, blew on the ink, and put down his brush.

"I wonder what brings you here, Lord Lu?"

"I have come because of what happened yesterday."

Lu Daozong stroked his beard and laughed:

"I never imagined that someone would be so supportive of the laws of the Song Dynasty, risking his life to rebuke members of the imperial family."

"It's a pity that he didn't leave his name so that people could remember him."

Song Xuan also had a smile on his face:

"So that Lord Lu may know, I am used to doing good deeds anonymously in my hometown."

"Hahaha."

Lu Daozong did not expose Song Xuan's ulterior motives.

The entire city of Nanjing.

Who doesn't know the name of Song Xuan, the Timely Rain?
If you truly do good deeds anonymously, can you achieve this kind of effect?

But as adults, especially those preparing to navigate the officialdom, we often have to say things that are not what we truly mean.

Whether it's using witty banter or repeatedly feigning ignorance, it requires careful consideration.

Never blurt it out!

Stability is the most important thing.

"Song Twelve, I'm not here to hold you accountable, don't worry."

Lu Daozong first stated his position, stroking his beard:
“I greatly appreciate your refusal to kneel or grovel in this matter.”

"Otherwise, how would the people of Bianjing (Kaifeng) spread the word that the laws of our Great Song Dynasty are utterly useless?"

If a crisis of trust occurs, then the problem has been corrected.

It's unknown how long it will take to restore trust between the two sides.

It would be better to take this opportunity to punish the princes of the imperial clan again, so as to show that the emperor is on the side of the people.

It is precisely because of upright people like Song Twelve that the people of the world are willing to believe that the government can speak up for them and stand up for them.

The people will not rebel at will.

Song Xuan was unaware of Lu Daozong's background, so he asked:
"I wonder what position Lord Lu holds now?"

Lu Daozong found it somewhat amusing, but also genuinely admired Song Xuan's public defense of the Song Dynasty's laws, and patiently answered for the third time:

"I am the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, a Privy Councilor, a Bachelor of the Dragon Pavilion and a Lecturer, and concurrently the Director of the Court of Imperial Clan Affairs, Lu Daozong."

Song Xuan nodded.

It turns out he was a high-ranking official, the vice prime minister.

He had never heard of this name before.

"I wonder if Lord Lu came to see me solely because of yesterday's matter?"

"good."

Lu Daozong did not hide the truth from Song Xuan.

Instead, he was told very clearly that the Imperial Censor Cheng Kan had impeached Zhao Yundi, a member of the imperial clan, for disregarding the laws of the Song Dynasty.

The emperor was furious.

Therefore, it was he, as the head of the Imperial Clan Court, who took charge of the investigation.

He has investigated the whole story.

It means that nobody knows who the "protagonist" is.
All I know is that he was extremely strong and handsome, but I don't know his name.

Fortunately, Zhao Yundi sent people to follow him, and that's how they found out that Song Xuan was staying here.

"I see."

Song Xuan nodded.

They're locals; it's quite easy for them to find out where you, an outsider, live.

Even if you live in the Ghost Tower, you can still get accurate information as long as you're willing to spend money.

"As expected of the student praised by Uncle Yan, he truly has ambition."

Lu Daozong then took the opportunity to mention his old friendship with Yan Shu, and asked:
Where did you rank in the exam?

"Top scholar in the provincial examination".

"The top scholar from Yingtian Prefecture?"

Lu Daozong nearly plucked out his own beard.

Because he discovered that his old friend Yan Shu had been hiding something from him, and had not mentioned that Song Xuan was the top scholar in the provincial examination of Yingtian Prefecture.

"I'm afraid he's not here to take the imperial examination in the capital."

Lu Daozong thought to himself but did not say it aloud.

"What, does Master Lu think I don't look like a top scholar?"

"That's not quite right!"

Lu Daozong smiled:
"I'm just a little surprised. This year's imperial examination has been reformed. You should be careful, as the focus will be on policy essays."

"Yes, I'm just practicing writing policy essays."

"May I take a look?"

"It just so happens that there is no renowned teacher to guide me, so I am in trouble with you, Master Lu."

Lu Daozong took Song Xuan's exam paper and listened to his words with a hint of pride.

This is a question that has appeared on the exam before.

On whether the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun can be recovered.

This was the obsession of Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong, but Emperor Zhenzong did not have this idea.

Song Xuan supported the recovery of the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun.

He first listed how each winter is getting colder and the cold weather lasts longer.

The Khitans also preferred warm places.

And the Great Song Dynasty was such a warm and desirable place.

When the Khitans' desire for a better living environment eventually led them to break the alliance and march south to attack the Song Dynasty.

At that time, the Song Dynasty might not be lucky enough to kill the Liao commander on the spot.

Meanwhile, the Liao army approached the city.

The Yellow River can serve as both a moat for one's own side and a powerful weapon for the enemy to attack the city.

Have you not seen Guan Yu's magnificent feat of flooding seven armies and shaking the land of China?
Upon seeing this, Lu Daozong raised an eyebrow slightly.

He had witnessed Guan Yu's flooding of Cao Cao's army, which shook the entire land.

But what makes Song Xuan claim to be the Seventh Army?

If we're talking about a lot, then it has to be the number "three".

Because in classical Chinese, one is one, and two is two.

But "three" doesn't necessarily refer to three.

However, Lu Daozong did not ask any questions, but instead planned to finish reading before discussing it with Song Xuan.

In short.

Without the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun, the Song Dynasty would be in extreme danger.

Both Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong were "outstanding commanders" who fought their way up in the army.

Their military strategic level must be higher than that of many others, therefore the Song Dynasty must carry out the will of the two late emperors and recover the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun.

Such shameless flattery made Lu Daozong gasp involuntarily.

When it comes to Emperor Taizu's military prowess, Lu Daozong acknowledges it.

However, Emperor Taizong was more skilled in politics than in military affairs.

In order to prove his point of view was correct, Song Xuan forcibly used these two former emperors to support him.

Such a small trick is in line with his plan to trap Zhao Yundi.

Finally, Song Xuan suggested that instead of waging war indiscriminately, we could use the strategy of exchanging silk for horses to weaken other countries and strengthen our own military power.

Lu Daozong was certain that Song Xuan had not yet received Liu Ye's letter.

This means that Song Xuan himself believed his plan would succeed.

Because of the Uyghur issue, Lu Daozong had not been able to come up with a good solution.

The original intention was to inquire about the matter of the imperial clan's son, but unexpectedly, Song Xuan wrote this down on paper, providing a solution.

Whether it was the Liao Dynasty, the Western Xia Dynasty, the Uyghurs, or other countries at sea, the Song Dynasty maintained close ties with them.

As long as it was trade, the Song Dynasty made money.

However, Li Deming of Western Xia would never sit idly by.

Cao Li said that perhaps a war would be launched in the next two years to annex the Uyghurs.

Thinking of this, Lu Daozong returned the paper to Song Xuan: "The writing is good, but there is a flaw."

"What loophole?"

"The strategy of exchanging silk for horses is quite clever," Lu Daozong sighed, stroking his beard.
"But you also need to have the power to exchange horses with the Song Dynasty."

"The Uyghurs are weak now, and Li Deming of Western Xia will definitely make a move in a year or two. At that time, will our Great Song still be able to save this nephew?"

This nephew-niece relationship was inherited from the Tang Dynasty.

"If we are to rescue them, we will have to send troops to fight against the Western Xia. Can the soldiers on the border of the Song Dynasty defeat the Western Xia army?"

"We can't catch up with them, and we can't escape them."

"Even the Liao army of 500,000 men suffered a crushing defeat."

Lu Daozong said with a somber expression:
"To tell you the truth, the Liao Kingdom was defeated even by a small Uyghur army. What real difficulties do you think you can understand by writing this policy essay?"

Song Xuan's eyes were full of doubt.

Why do these words sound so familiar?

It's as if he himself told his future father-in-law, Cao Liyong.

Now Lu Daozong is using this to "teach him a lesson."

It seems that Cao Yong has "understood" all these things, and he's putting on a big show in the court.

"Oh I got it."

Song Xuan nodded in a perfunctory manner: "Lord Lu's advice is correct."

Lu Daozong felt that Song Xuan's idea, and the fact that Liu Ye had successfully tested it, was not just empty talk.

However, recovering the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun was indeed not so easy.

The Liao Dynasty is now more than happy for the Song Dynasty to fight against the Western Xia.

Just as the Song Dynasty vainly thought that the Liao Emperor Yelü Longxu, unable to swallow the humiliation of the western expedition, would continue to attack the Western Xia.

Everyone wants to be a bystander!

Let the two sides weaken each other.

However, the civil and military officials of the Liao Kingdom were not mindless warriors.

After the disastrous defeat of the 500,000-strong army's westward expedition, the emperor immediately rewarded Li Deming with a golden seal to appease him.

Lu Daozong was an honest man; he waved his hand dismissively.

"These are all things that Attendant Cao said; I am merely repeating what he said."

"Oh!"

Song Xuan nodded subconsciously, confirming his suspicions.

You're just copying what others have already said.

"Isn't Twelve Lang afraid of what happened yesterday?"

Lu Daozong brought the topic back to the present, wanting to find out whether Song Xuan was backed by the current Empress Dowager Liu.

After all, not just anyone can live in Zhang Qi's courtyard.

"Afraid? I don't understand!"

A look of doubt appeared in Song Xuan's eyes:

"This is the capital of the Great Song Dynasty, right under the emperor's nose. Does this mean that members of the imperial family can bully the common people at will?"

Although Lu Daozong was upright, after so many years of ups and downs in officialdom, many things were no longer as he had imagined them in his youth.

He has matured a lot.

Therefore, upon hearing Song Xuan's words, he was momentarily lost in thought.

"Not really."

Song Xuan spread his hands and said, "Although I have just arrived in Tokyo, I know that the Chen family of Kaifeng Prefecture upholds justice and the current emperor Gengshi is strict with himself. The Dengwen Drum is never just for show. So even if I am facing a member of the imperial family, what do I have to be afraid of?"

Lu Daozong was speechless.

Is this what it means for a young person to believe in everything?
I was in the same boat back then, but things rarely go as planned.

Before passing the imperial examination, every candidate who aspires to become a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations) would imagine what it would be like to become an official!
But how many people in this world can remain true to their original aspirations?

Although Song Xuan couldn't figure out Lu Daozong's thoughts, he was sure that his words would be righteous and correct, so there wouldn't be any mistakes.

Moreover, his policy proposal just now was not written according to his own thoughts.

There are outsiders present; it's not good for him to see.

Seeing Lu Daozong deep in thought, Song Xuan was certain that he was susceptible to this tactic, and he felt even more confident.

"If all scholars in our Great Song Dynasty were like you, I wonder how wonderful that would be."

Lu Daozong sighed softly. He had also asked the other candidates who had traveled with Song Xuan, and they either wanted to leave or wanted to settle things peacefully.

Scholars like Song Twelve were always a minority.

"Alright, now that the matter has been investigated, I won't bother you any longer."

Lu Daozong was somewhat convinced that Song Xuan was definitely not Empress Dowager Liu's man.

Which of those close to Empress Dowager Liu didn't enjoy flattery?
The candidate before me is too upright and has great ambitions.

How could someone possibly be someone who actively tries to emulate Wu Zetian?

If it really comes to that, Lu Daozong believes that Song Xuan will definitely step forward and rebuke him.

There are far too many mediocre officials in the court who are afraid to risk their lives and hold their positions.

Lu Daozong couldn't clean it himself, nor did he have the ability to do so.

"Please wait, Lord Lu."

Song Xuan stood up and personally saw him off.

He was quite surprised to find that Lu Daozong, now a vice prime minister, had not brought a single servant with him and had simply strolled over on his own.

According to Wang Bao, with so many official positions, his monthly salary must be quite high.

Even so, she was still not dressed in fine clothes, and no one was serving her.

He's quite an eccentric person.

Song Xuan turned around, and Wang Bao quickly asked, "Twelfth Brother, are you alright?"

"What can happen?"

"If I did that just now, the official won't make things difficult for you, will he?"

Wang Bao was somewhat worried, after all, an old man with so many official positions must be a high-ranking official.

Song Xuan immediately waved his hand and said, "Good for you. Not just anyone can come into our courtyard."

"That's good."

Wang Bao felt relieved and began to work up his strength in the courtyard.

"Go and fetch that old servant; I have something to ask him."

"Hey."

If Song Xuan wanted to gather information in Tokyo, he would have to rely on Cao Liyong's help.

The old servant introduced Lu Daozong to the man in a few words.

Song Xuan nodded, and then heard the old servant say:
"If Twelfth Brother encounters any trouble, I will go back and report to the Master, and ask him to stand up for Twelfth Brother."

"It's just a small matter."

Song Xuan then smiled and said to the old servant:
"Go out and inquire around. The one who angrily denounced the imperial clansmen for not being worthy of the surname Zhao was the one I told you to do. Go and tell my future father-in-law that he has nothing to worry about."

"Here."

Inside the Cao residence, Cao Yongli, who had finished his shift, met with his old brother waiting for him.

Upon hearing his report, Cao Yong raised an eyebrow; it really was him who had done it.

"Sir, do you want it?"

"No need."

Cao Liyong waved his hand dismissively:
"I have no doubt that Twelve Lang can handle this without any mistakes, especially since Lu Daozong is investigating this matter, which makes me even more confident in his character."

Cao Liyong thought there was no need to cause trouble, especially since Song Twelve was in the right.

If you can always be in the right, then you are already in an invincible position.

Especially the Eighth Prince, who also called himself the Eighth Wise Prince.

Cao Liyong felt that Liu E would never give up on putting Zhao Yuanyan in a difficult position.

An opportunity that comes knocking on your door.

"You're a jerk."

Cao Yongli felt that his son-in-law was truly ruthless, so ruthless that it was almost too good to be true.

Unknowingly, they dug a pit for Zhao Yundi, and they should thank Shierlang for burying him alive.

Zhao Yundi's statement that the laws of the Song Dynasty belonged to the Zhao family was indeed true, and Cao Yong could not refute it at all.

Who knew that Song Xuan would directly say that you are not worthy of the surname Zhao, which is a disgrace to Emperor Taizong. As soon as he said this, Zhao Yundi had to kneel down.

Now that this has happened, these members of the imperial clan will certainly no longer act with impunity.

Finally, someone has come to put their arrogance to a halt.

Cao was extremely satisfied with Song Xuan's performance, thinking that his good son-in-law would certainly not be a bad person once he became an official.

Such people can climb the ranks in officialdom much faster.

Even before he held an official position, he displayed an image of being unafraid of powerful figures and upholding the laws of the Song Dynasty.

Word of mouth will also spread to some extent.

Especially since it involves members of the imperial family, this matter could be a big deal or a small one, depending on how the emperor thinks about it.

Cao chuckled a few times and then gave some more instructions.

"The exam will start in a few days. We must check the food carefully so that he doesn't get sick and miss the provincial exam."

Cao Li was eagerly hoping that Song Xuan would achieve the highest honors in all three levels of the imperial examinations.

He naturally wanted to make sure his future son-in-law had all the logistical support he needed.

No accidents can be tolerated.

Lu Daozong's investigation report was extremely detailed and was quickly submitted to the emperor.

Zhao Zhen actually knew the whole story long ago, but the most important thing was that Lu Daozong had investigated the truth in a short time and provided feedback, so he showed it to the emperor first, instead of handing it over to his mother.

Emperor Zhao Zhen was very satisfied with Emperor Daozong of Lu.

He had also grown up a lot and longed for more power and the recognition of the court officials.

"How does His Majesty intend to punish Zhao Yundi?"

Emperor Lu Daozong first kept a record with Emperor Zhao Zhen to avoid an irreparable situation if he informed the Empress Dowager.

Zhao Yuanyan has been claiming to be mentally ill for several years and has not participated in court affairs, making a very show of it.

If they were to retaliate wantonly, that would be inappropriate.

As the temple head, he also did not want the matter to escalate too much.

Zhao Zhen was unsure of what to do. This matter could be a big deal or a small deal. He had to punish Zhao Yundi, otherwise how would the people view him as emperor?

"I wonder if Councilor Lu has any suggestions?"

When Lu Daozong heard that the ball had been thrown back at him again, he understood that the emperor lacked experience in governing, so he spoke up:

"In my humble opinion, Your Majesty should follow the example of Emperor Taizong and punish him lightly, but make it known to the world."

"Isn't expulsion too harsh?"

Zhao Zhen recalled Song Xuan's words: "You don't even deserve the surname Zhao."

Lu Daozong looked up at the emperor, and he really did not expect that the emperor would issue such a severe punishment.

"It's too harsh."

Upon observing Lu Daozong's expression, Zhao Zhen immediately understood:

"Then let's remove him from his post and send him to reflect on his mistakes in seclusion, how about that?"

(End of this chapter)