A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 279 Confrontation
Zhang Qi had previously heard Cao Liyong say that he had a keen eye for talent, but he thought Cao was just bragging.

When Song Xuan became the top scholar in the imperial examination, Cao, confident in his abilities, bet a lot of his fortune at the gambling den and won money. Cao also thought that Old Cao was really lucky.

His charm remains undiminished, and he dares to take big gambles.

It wasn't until Song Xuan was personally selected as the top scholar by the emperor that Zhang Qi realized that Song Xuan was indeed a capable junior.

At this point, Zhang Qi could no longer bear to hear Cao Li praising his son-in-law in front of him, which also included praising himself.

Because Zhang Qi discovered that Cao Liyong wasn't just bragging.

He was simply stating the facts.

Zhang Qi already felt a little envious.

It's hateful that I've given birth to so many sons but not a single daughter.

Even Song Xuan's words just now did not provoke Empress Dowager Liu's anger; on the contrary, they made her overjoyed.

This ability alone is something not everyone can achieve.

Therefore, besides feeling envious, Zhang Qi had already begun to feel jealous that Cao Yong was incredibly lucky!
We are all Privy Councilors, and although I am now recognized as the most favored minister in the court, no one can rival me.

However, Zhang Qi understood that his family's wealth and status were only temporary.

Perhaps when he dies, the Zhang family's glory will fade away.

None of his sons were capable enough to shoulder the family's responsibilities and continue its glory.

Therefore, Zhang Qi was quite strict in disciplining his son.

It is to prevent them from acting recklessly, squandering their family fortune in a short period of time, or even incurring the "backlash" of power!
Originally, Cao Liyong's sons were in the same situation; they all occupied the same ecological niche.

But Cao happened to use this opportunity to have such an outstanding son-in-law as Song Xuan.

In Zhang Qi's view, his son-in-law Song Xuan could at least preserve the Cao family's wealth for three generations.

Now that they've reached their positions, they either hope that their family's power can continue to extend, like the Lü family and those military families that are unwilling to give up.

They either hoped their offspring would have a wealthy life and that someone would hold an official position.

The expression in Zhang Qi's eyes was truly extremely complex.

We had planned to just give up together, but then you suddenly got a great son-in-law!
Who can bear this?
Compared to Zhang Qi's envy, jealousy, and hatred, Cao Liyong was drenched in cold sweat.

He didn't actually understand the logic in Song Xuan's words.

What are you even talking about?

Because he knew that the woman in front of him was no ordinary person.

Otherwise, I wouldn't have taken the initiative to side with her back then.

Even while the emperor was still alive, she dared to forge imperial edicts and demote Kou Zhun again and again.

Emperor Zhenzong was puzzled by Kou Zhun's absence for several days, but no one in the palace dared to tell the emperor the truth!
This demonstrates Liu E's skill and shrewdness.

Not to mention the matter of the emperor's birth mother, which neither palace servants nor officials dared to speak of.

Now that his good son-in-law is so unruly, Cao Liyong is afraid that this matter will be revealed by Song Xuan.

How can we put Empress Dowager Liu at ease at that time?

No matter how you look at it, they are just a mother and son, and they wield immense power.

Most importantly, Cao Yong believed that the Emperor was not a ruthless ruler at all, so once the biggest secret between the mother and son was exposed...

The emperor could not defeat Empress Dowager Liu.

That would implicate Song Xuan, who was charging ahead.

Cao Liyong planned to have a good talk with Song Xuan later.

Now that they've entered officialdom, it's not just about the confrontation and alliance between officials against other factions; they might also be caught in the power struggle between a mother and son.

"What a combination of ability and luck!"

Liu E's smile remained unchanged:
"I used to think that the idea of ​​a talented person speaking eloquently was just empty praise from ignorant people."

"Now that I have met Scholar Song, I know that such a thing really exists."

Liu E was quite satisfied with the excuses Song Xuan gave her.

Therefore, praise is not spared at this time.

Most importantly, even the top scholar she personally selected, Song Xiang, did not provide her with this kind of thinking or "emotional value"!
Song Xuan's rhetoric was so eloquent and inspiring!

We all came from the bottom.

Although Song Xuan's family can truly be regarded as a prodigal son who turned over a new leaf, achieving the highest honors in all three levels of the imperial examinations, making him a model of "priceless virtue".

Empress Liu only got to where she is today by relying on Emperor Zhenzong's favoritism and by using many tricks.

Song Xuan chuckled twice, took the teapot handed to him by the palace maid, and poured himself a cup.

Liu E then turned to the still bewildered Zhao Zhen and said:

"Sixth Brother, you should make more friends with Scholar Song in the future. You might be able to learn more skills from him."

"Your Majesty, I understand."

Zhao Zhen understood that his mother's actions were aimed at winning Song Xuan over to her side.

The previous Song Xiang was like that, and the Empress Dowager doesn't want to let this one go either.

Moreover, Twelfth Brother is truly capable.

Liu E inquired about Song Xuan's family situation, and his account was not much different from what Song Xiang had said.

However, there were some details that Song Xiang was unaware of.

"Twelfth Brother does have a knack for business."

"Replying to Your Majesty, I only want to be able to eat some good food. I'm young and it's the time when I crave delicious food, so I have to find a way to earn money to buy good food. Otherwise, I can only watch others eat while I drool."

Listening to Song Xuan's words, Liu E could understand that he had earned the infamous reputation of being one of the "three evils" at such a young age.

Otherwise, they would have been completely taken advantage of long ago.

Especially in the countryside, Liu E suffered a lot.

The memory of hunger she experienced as a child has always lingered in her mind.

Hearing Song Xuan's frank words, Liu E nodded slightly, then looked up and smiled:

“Scholar Song is truly honest. We’ve finished our meal. Everyone, please come with me for a walk.”

"Here."

It seemed that the Northern Song imperial palace was completely unguarded in some matters.

Although the palace examination has not yet ended.

However, the news that Song Xuan had been chosen as the top scholar on the spot spread like wildfire.

After all, many of their sons served in the Imperial Guard.

A large crowd of onlookers had gathered outside the palace gates.

For the first time in many years, the gambling dens in Tokyo City did not offer betting on who would win the championship!
Everyone's betting on second place.

Although unauthorized persons were not allowed to approach within a few dozen steps of the palace, many common people gathered beyond that distance.

Moreover, as long as there are many people, people who want to make a living by taking advantage of any available space will also come.

A tea stall has been set up here.

Li Junyou sat here and said softly:

"It seems that it will be difficult for Song Twelve to become the top scholar this time."

Wang Yufeng looked puzzled: "What do you mean, brother?"

"It is Brother Pan Su who is currently serving in the Imperial Guard."

Wang Yufeng didn't know him, but he knew that Li Junyou had many friends, and that was why he wanted to befriend him.

"This man is the great-grandson of King Pan Mei of Zheng."

"Oh."

Li Junyou lowered his voice: "He said that Song Xuan was poisoned in the examination hall, and the emperor even called the imperial physician. There was chaos in the main hall."

"what?"

Wang Yufeng was still thinking about currying favor with Song Xuan.

Because he knew that Li Junyou and Song Xuan were related.

His grandfather was Cao Liyong's in-law, and the two families were quite close.

"Who is so audacious as to poison Song Huiyuan in front of the Emperor!"

Wang Yufeng couldn't understand it, but then he saw Li Junyou dip his finger in tea and write the character "Chen".

"How could a family with three top scholars (Zhuangyuan) do such a despicable thing?"

"You can't find any evidence."

Li Junyou also wanted to befriend Song Xuan, and the entire city of Tokyo believed that Song Xuan was destined to become the top scholar in the imperial examination.

Who would have thought the Chen brothers were so ruthless?

How can someone participate in the imperial examination if they directly poison someone?
Whether they can even save their lives is still a big question.

Just as they were gossiping about the rumors, Li Junyou, with his sharp eyes, spotted Cao Xu running out of the palace gate. He quickly scattered a handful of copper coins on the table and immediately stood up.

"Walk."

Wang Yufeng was puzzled, but seeing that the Cao family must be there to watch the drama unfold, he quickly followed them.

"Cousin."

Li Junyou grabbed the elated Cao Xu:

"I heard that my brother-in-law was poisoned during the imperial examination. How is he now?"

Cao Xu glanced at his cousin and immediately replied, "What are you talking about?"

Li Junyou immediately told Cao Xu the news he had heard.

Cao Xu raised an eyebrow; he truly knew nothing about this.

The elder brother simply sent someone to summon him, saying that something good had happened, and then he was to go back and tell his mother and younger sister first.

"I didn't know about this."

Hearing Cao Xu's words, Li Junyou raised an eyebrow. It couldn't be that the Pan family boy had misheard!

"Then you come?"

“My brother-in-law, Song Xuan, finished his policy essay in less than a quarter of an hour and has already been named the top scholar of the Song Dynasty by the Emperor in court. Even the Empress Dowager agrees. I’m going home to report the good news right now.”

"What's the matter?"

Wang Yufeng spoke first, somewhat incredulous.

This news sounds fake.
It's not like he hasn't experienced the imperial examination results before.

It will take at least five or six days before the results are released.

How can the top scorer be determined on the day of the exam?

"you do not believe?"

Cao Xun watched as Wang Yufeng launched into another tirade. Anyway, the Emperor had said that anyone who thought they could challenge Song Xuan's status as the top scholar could submit their paper early.

Li Junyou and Wang Yufeng looked at each other in bewilderment.

They watched as Cao Xu shouted "My brother-in-law has become the top scholar!" and walked away, which then prompted a group of people to ask who it was.

Many others believe that someone is just stirring up trouble.

According to the tradition of the palace examination, it is impossible to select a particular person as the top scholar on the spot. Don't be fooled by that kid.

"Brother, there are some things I don't understand."

"Don't look at me, I don't quite understand it either."

Li Junyou then added, "My aunt's health isn't very good, so my cousin is just reporting good news and not bad news."

"Yes, what my brother said makes sense."

Wang Yufeng then added, "If Cao Xu dares to spread this so widely, it must be true!"

"I need to go home and ask my grandfather first."

Li Junyou patted Wang Yufeng on the shoulder: "We brothers should get together again when we have time. This matter is also extremely important to my Li family."

Knowing that the Cao and Li families were related by marriage, Wang Yufeng did not try to persuade them to stay any longer.

Whether it's true or not, we can find out by throwing money at those who participated in the palace examination.

As Cao Xun boasted.

Ouyang Xiu was also somewhat surprised. He believed that Song Xuan had the ability to become the top scholar, but to appoint him as the top scholar in court was simply too unbelievable.

"Song Xuan really did snatch the top scholar title."

"A triple crown! Wow!"

"This Song Twelve is definitely the makings of a prime minister."

"To be named the top scholar in court on the spot—is this perhaps the first time in the Song Dynasty?"

"It is said that this is what the founding emperor did back then."

"I never imagined that the current emperor would have the style of the founding emperor!"

The crowd was extremely noisy; some believed it, while others did not.

"It must be fake news."

"Since the reign of Emperor Taizong, there has been no practice of appointing the top scholar in court."

After all, Emperor Taizu did not pass the throne to his son.

"Don't believe it, don't believe it."

Chen family.

Chen Yaozuo looked at his younger brother Chen Yaozi, who was sulking.

"Did you really do this?"

Seeing that he didn't respond, Chen Yaozuo sighed heavily:
"Confused!"

“I had someone investigate Song Xuan’s reputation in Song City. This kid is a complete country bully. He’s even skilled in medicine and gets into fights with those down-and-outs in the streets, brandishing knives and sticks.”

"Now that he has made a name for himself in Songcheng as a timely helper, he keeps throwing money around and has brought those hooligans into the business of cleaning latrines."

In Tokyo, cleaning latrines was a job that could earn you a government salary.

There are “five hundred” sanitation workers in Tokyo, all of whom are dressed in blue uniforms.

Moreover, the people who specifically dumped excrement were called "dumpers," and they were also under government control.

However, in a city like Tokyo with a population of one million, the number of sanitation workers, including those on duty, is only around a thousand, which is impossible to handle.

Commerce was thriving in the Song Dynasty, and the trade in excrement became even more prominent, with many merchants participating in this industry.

Moreover, the only cost to be in the latrine-collecting business is one's own strength. All you need to do is transport the collected excrement out of the city, dry it, and sell it to farmers to make money.

Chen Yaozi had also served as a local official, so he naturally understood that this line of work was profitable.

He glanced at his second brother: "You sent someone to investigate him?"

"Of course, knowing yourself and your enemy is the key to winning every battle."

Chen Yaozuo sat to the side:
“He doesn’t need to bother to find out anything about my Chen family; his good father-in-law can tell him everything. But we know nothing about Song Xuan.”

“These past few nights, when I couldn’t sleep, I’ve been thinking about this. This boy is decisive in his actions and is not someone to be dealt with easily.”

"Fortunately, he has a father who is a gambler and a second brother who is also a gambler, so they can be used to set up a scheme."

Chen Yaozuo's eyes and brows were filled with a smile:
"He's strong, isn't he? I don't believe he can just ignore the life and death of his father and brothers. Let's put the label of unfilial piety on him and see what he does!"

"Is that why you disagreed with me doing that thing before?"

Chen Yaozi was somewhat annoyed that his second brother hadn't told him about his plan beforehand.

"I just received this news too."

Chen Yaozuo explained, and then spoke again:

"However, I do agree that it could affect his performance in the palace examination, but the risk is too great."

"Then Wang Zeng, Prime Minister Lü, and even the Emperor all believed that you did it, which means they indirectly believe that I was the one who plotted it behind the scenes."

There was a hint of uncertainty in Chen Yaozuo's eyes:

"It's just unclear whether Prime Minister Lü can still cover for us."

"He will definitely cover for you."

Chen Yaozi, however, said with absolute confidence:
“He asked me, and I gave him a good reason to brush it off. As long as there is no evidence, no matter how much we argue, it’s not something I did.”

Chen Yaozuo nodded: "You didn't reveal the source of that sleeping potion, did you?"

"Of course." Chen Yaozi nodded, then added:

"I wonder who lit that incense stick first, otherwise he would have been tricked without even realizing it during the exam, and such a big incident wouldn't have happened."

Hearing his younger brother's words, Chen Yaozuo subconsciously frowned: "Didn't I just say that Song Xuan has some medical knowledge?"

"Ok?"

"Second brother did say that."

Chen Yaozu remained silent, then Chen Yaozi spoke up:

"Could it be that Song Xuan had already noticed that the incense smelled abnormal, so he secretly lit it in advance, taking advantage of the situation to deliberately set a trap and escalate the matter?"

Even after he finished speaking, he felt that the possibility was slim.

"I can't quite put my finger on it, but my feeling is that this young man is very shrewd and calculating!"

Chen Yaozuo said slowly, "Otherwise, he wouldn't have come up with the business tactic of giving away three-star and five-star lottery tickets when selling novels."

"What do you mean?"

Chen Yaozuo explained Song Xuan's business model to his younger brother. He had cultivated the habit among the people of Song City to occasionally spend two coins to buy something and try their luck.

Because it's true that some people will actually win, it's completely fair and honest.

"Isn't this just a poaching game?"

Chen Yaozi immediately became excited:
"Then we have to arrest him."

"Things are not that simple. How could Yan Tongshu, who is the prefect of Yingtian Prefecture, not know about this?"

Chen Yaozuo sighed heavily:

“I searched through the entire Song Dynasty law, but I couldn’t find any law that Song Xuan’s actions violated. That’s why I think this boy is very thoughtful and has a long-term vision. He won’t be easily used against him.”

Chen Yaozi fell silent immediately, and then his second brother said:
“If it doesn’t prevent Song Xuan from winning the top scholar title, then it’s his doing. He wants everyone to be hostile to our Chen family. After all, what you’ve done is truly outrageous.”

"In this way, the Empress Dowager, the Emperor, and several prime ministers will all have a problem with you and me. Why wouldn't he be happy to do that?"

"If it truly affects Song Xuan's performance in the palace examination, then even if what I just said is true, it doesn't matter. At least we've achieved our goal. What I'm afraid of is losing both the wife and the army!"

"Second brother, there's no need to be so worried."

Chen Yaozi chuckled:
"Song Xuan was just lucky. I used an excellent sleeping incense, which will definitely keep him unconscious for a short time."

"That's good."

The two of them felt that as long as Song Xuan did not become the top scholar and could not achieve the feat of winning the triple crown, he would be just an ordinary Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations).

Furthermore, since his father-in-law chose Cao Yong instead of Prime Minister Lü, Song Xuan must be incredibly foolish to have been easily swayed by Cao Yong into agreeing. As a result, Song Xuan will have no foothold in the court and will receive no support from his family or in-laws.

How could he possibly have a place in the imperial court?
The Chen family can do whatever they want with him, it's as easy as they want!
Just as Chen Yaozuo was thinking that it would be best to keep Song Xuan in Tokyo so that he would have a chance to get revenge.

He then received a message from a messenger sent by Prime Minister Lü.

"Song Xuan finished the exam paper in less than a quarter of an hour and was immediately named the top scholar by the Emperor and the Empress Dowager, which is an example that has not appeared in decades."

Because the imperial examinations administered by Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong were somewhat crude.

It wasn't until the later years of Emperor Taizong's reign that things became a little more formal, and people started using anonymous names.

Lu Yijian sent someone to deliver this message; it would be good if the Chen brothers could understand it.

"How can it be!"

After a long while, Chen Yaozi finally spoke.

"That sleeping potion has excellent medicinal effects."

"If the medicine is effective, people will be on guard. How can you possibly get it?"

Chen Yaozuo sighed again: "Young people these days are really something."

"The youngest person to achieve the highest honors in all three categories since the founding of the Song Dynasty will likely have a smooth and successful official career in the future."

Actually, Chen Yaozuo wasn't too worried just because the emperor had chosen him as the top scholar.

However, since Empress Liu had given her approval, there was no chance to alter the matter.

This is enough to confirm that it was Song Xuan's doing.

He thought that by positioning himself as the weaker party, he could gain more "sympathy" from the emperor and the empress dowager for his strategy!
"You were tricked by him too!"

Hearing his elder brother's words, Chen Yaozi suddenly stood up:
"Impossible, absolutely impossible!"

He even swept the teacup next to him to the ground, smashing it to pieces.

After putting in so much effort and energy, this is the result.

Chen Yaozi was risking the reputation of the Chen family.

If this matter succeeds, then it's a matter of the victor taking all, and you can say whatever you want.

There is no evidence anyway.

However, it didn't work out, and Song Xuan ended up gaining huge benefits from it, which made Chen Yaozi very upset.

I even felt like a clown.

Before planning it, he was extremely happy and believed that the move would definitely succeed.

Chen Yaozuo understood his younger brother's emotional breakdown, and he spoke directly:

“Song Xuan’s status is different now. Our initial target was Han Qi, and this whole thing started because of him. Did we make a mistake in targeting him?”

"You're kidding me!"

Chen Yaozi waved his fist and said:
"Although this matter was started by Han Qi, it had little to do with him in the end. If Song Xuan hadn't interfered, my elder brother would have definitely persuaded Han Qi, and my Chen family wouldn't have ended up like this today."

“Every wrong has its perpetrator, and every debt its debtor. My Chen family will deal with Song Xuan first, and then we'll take care of Han Qi as well. His family isn't very powerful, especially considering his future father-in-law's family isn't very influential, so there's nothing to worry about.”

"On the contrary, Song Xuan's father-in-law is Cao Liyong, and he himself has achieved the highest honor of passing the imperial examination in three consecutive years. His future is limitless."

“If my Chen family doesn’t crush him while he’s still weak, we’ll be watching him, Song Xuan, shit and piss on our heads in the future.”

Chen Yaozi's words were exactly what Chen Yaozu was worried about.

He understood Prime Minister Lü's implication: the matter should end here.

But his own younger brother had caused Song Xuan such a big mess before the palace examination. Who could guarantee that Song Xuan would be magnanimous and wouldn't hold a grudge?

He, Song Xuan, is still so young.

Among the third generation of the Chen family, not a single one was particularly outstanding.

If they don't take advantage of the power the two brothers still hold to suppress Song Xuan, they will not rest in peace even when they die.

Because their children and grandchildren will have to bear Song Xuan's revenge for them!
"Yes."

Chen Yaozuo also stood up:

"That's how political struggles are sometimes. Even if you want to stop voluntarily, you can't help it and can only keep going."

"Second brother, it would be best to make some efforts to keep Song Xuan in Tokyo. In the future, we can use his father and brothers to do things for him."

"Yes, I have a plan for this."

Chen Yaozuo nodded.

He felt that there was too much fog ahead, and it would be difficult to clear it all at once, so he could only take it one step at a time.

……

As Song Xuan and the others digested their food after the meal, they listened to her slowly recount her story.

Cao Liyong then took the opportunity to tell Song Xuan to keep quiet for a while.

Don't you know the saying that trouble comes from the mouth?
Then he wandered to Liu E's palace, where there were many memorials on the table.

Empress Liu gestured for everyone to sit down, then reached out and took out a book for Madam Lin to hand to Song Xuan:

"Twelfth Brother, this is inspired by your public reprimand of the imperial prince Zhao Yundi. I plan to have the imperial relatives and officials in Tokyo strictly discipline their respective offspring."

"In other words, to prevent the young masters from abusing their power, they personally wrote a version. Take a look."

"Your Majesty, I am terrified!"

Song Xuan took it from Madam Lin's hand, glanced at the "Edict Restricting the Sons of Civil and Military Officials," opened it and looked at it; it was just some presumptuous requirements.

After all, Empress Liu was always applying double standards.

Her relatives by marriage can break the law at will, while everyone else must be punished depending on the circumstances.

Ultimately, everyone wants to gain a good reputation!
At least politically, there has been progress.

However, this is something that should be encouraged.

"Your Majesty's writing is truly excellent." Song Xuan closed the memorial and handed it to Zhang Qi, who was standing nearby.
“I imagine that Privy Councilor Zhang will be very pleased with himself. I heard in Tokyo that Privy Councilor Zhang is quite strict with his son.”

Zhang Qi hadn't expected Song Xuan to show this to him first, so he glanced at Cao Liyong in surprise, smiled, and didn't refuse.

Song Xuan didn't think Liu E wanted to hear advice; he figured praising her would suffice.

Several days have passed since the incident, and she has already figured things out.

Do you understand the significance of the Empress Dowager personally writing an edict to reform the corrupt officials?
Liu E picked up the policy essay on the table again: "This is a copy of your provincial examination paper on how to manage the Yellow River. The original paper has already been taken away by Sixth Brother."

"Are you absolutely certain that your method for controlling the Yellow River is foolproof?"

Because Liu E discovered that the people attached great importance to the construction of water conservancy projects.

Even Fan Zhongyan, an obscure minor official, was widely praised by the local people for his water conservancy projects, and they even built a shrine in his honor.

If, under the leadership of the Empress Dowager, the Yellow River can be successfully tamed.

Empress Liu felt that she would surely leave a significant mark on history, unlike Empress Wu Zetian who left behind a blank stele.

If Liu E were to write her own epitaph, she would definitely choose to write a full one, and she wouldn't even write just one stele.

She values ​​her reputation quite a bit.

"Your Majesty, how can we be 100% certain about repairing the Yellow River? Even if we are 50% certain, we still have to take the risk."

Song Xuan put down his teacup:
"Otherwise, we'll just have to wait for our children and grandchildren to become fish and turtles. In the future, if we break ties with the Liao Kingdom, they could easily breach the Yellow River and flood Kaifeng."

The Yellow River is a natural barrier for the city of Tokyo.

However, this natural barrier is not as sturdy as the natural barrier of the Yangtze River.

It can be used by us, or by the enemy.

Liu E then immediately looked at Cao Liyong:
"Minister Cao, can your son-in-law's words really be applied in war?"

Cao Liyong nodded: "Of course, Your Majesty."

"Back then, the main force of the Liao army was heading towards Tokyo, and Kou Zhun's decision to drag the late emperor across the river to Chanzhou was also based on this consideration."

Liu E nodded; she knew Kou Zhun's toughness.

Rather than saying they were holding him back, it would be more accurate to say they completely deceived Emperor Zhenzong, leaving him no chance to return.

Moreover, the emperor's personal participation in the campaign was extremely encouraging for the morale of the front lines.

"Now that you mention it, I am reminded of the several times when the Liao Dynasty took advantage of the Yellow River floods to send out false messages to attack our Song Dynasty."

Cao Liyong cupped his hands again and said:

"Your Majesty, all's fair in war. We are just trying to guard against the Liao Dynasty's constant threats and empty promises, but that they will come to attack our Great Song Dynasty when it suffers a severe flood from the Yellow River!"

"Yes, what Minister Cao said makes sense."

Liu E understood that the reason the north maintained so many soldiers was for this purpose.

However, she also knew that the Song army's fighting strength was certainly not as good as it was during the Treaty of Chanyuan.

Even the Imperial Guards have become lax and negligent, not to mention the border troops who have been on the front lines ready to fight to the death at any moment.

Most of them wanted to make money through "border trade".

In fact, the most profitable smuggling was of Song Dynasty copper coins.

Because this is truly a hard currency.

By exchanging money for things of higher value from the Liao people, and then reselling them, one could obtain a considerable profit.

Therefore, in the eyes of some border troops, the meager sums given by the imperial court were hardly attractive.

It's better to make money with the clothes you're wearing and your colleagues and superiors; that's the real deal!

"In that case, we still need to be more vigilant."

Empress Liu had no intention of recovering the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun; she simply disliked war.

"From now on, Shierlang will stay in Tokyo as an official, so that he can conduct a nearby survey of the Yellow River and lay the foundation for its future management."

"It's entirely up to Your Majesty to decide."

Really good!
Hearing such a satisfactory answer, Liu E even looked at Zhao Zhen with a hint of pride.

Look at my skills in managing people, you still want to rule personally?

And it takes time to figure it out.

Even so, it's not necessarily possible to fully understand it.

After all, the heart of an emperor is not so easily forged through experience.

Zhao Zhen, however, witnessed his mother's methods firsthand. She was so openly undermining him that he was powerless to refute her.

In any case, it was the Empress Dowager who ruled as regent.

No matter how big or small the affairs of the Song Dynasty were, they were not within the emperor's jurisdiction to make decisions.

Zhao Zhen glanced at Song Xuan, hoping he wouldn't side with the Empress Dowager.

Otherwise, there really won't be anyone to stand up for me, give me advice, or protect me in the future!

"Twelfth Brother, do you know anything about painting?"

"Your Majesty, I do not know anything about painting."

Song Xuan thought for a moment:
"I might prefer realism; I can't quite grasp the artistic conception of that style myself."

"It doesn't matter."

Liu E then waved her hand with a smile:
"As for paintings, you'll get used to them after looking at them a lot. They're all just a few expressive strokes that you can see over and over again."

She immediately had someone bring out the painting she treasured to display.

So Song Xuan and the others stood on the painting that was being unfolded by two palace maids.

Early Spring Painting

Song Xuan stood not far away watching.

In the painting, withered branches sprout green leaves, but one old plum tree alone enjoys the spring sunshine.

Several chicks under the tree looked up at the sky, and in the distance, a phoenix could be vaguely seen perched on a parasol tree.

Although Song Xuan didn't understand painting, he could tell that the painting was highlighting the old plum blossom!
As for the phoenix on the other side of the mountain, he couldn't understand it at all.

You can't say that if those chicks eat the old plum blossom, they'll fly up to the tree and become phoenixes, can you?
That explanation is far-fetched.

"Twelfth Brother, what do you think?"

Song Xuan couldn't quite understand it.

There were clearly several people looking at the painting, and according to your account, Liu E, the other three didn't seem to be seeing it for the first time.

That's why they only asked me to explain this painting?

Song Xuan thought for a moment, then spoke:
"Your Majesty, you have such discerning eyes!"

"This painting is exquisite in its brushwork, with a perfect balance of ink tones, a proper interplay of perspective and realism, and a profound artistic conception. It is truly the work of a master!"

Liu E simply laughed, paying no attention to Song Xuan's praise.

What she wanted to hear was the artistic conception conveyed by the painting and the meaning behind the painting itself.

However, Song Xuan either praised the color or rambled on, which was not what Liu E wanted at all.

However, Zhao Zhen did indeed have some lip twitching.

Because these words sound all too familiar. Isn't it just that Twelfth Brother complained that the food he treated him to by the imperial chef wasn't good enough?
If it's really delicious, why would you care about talking?

"Tell me your story. I'm sure the title of 'Great Talented Scholar Song' is well-deserved."

Liu E was trying to force Song Xuan to make a statement.

I've already sent out invitations one after another, and you're still pretending to be stupid with me, aren't you?
Cao Liyong's expression turned serious. "Look, the Empress Dowager is starting to make her move, isn't she?"
They've been gradually lowering your guard step by step!
I'd like to hear your answer so you can avoid incurring her jealousy.

Cao Liyong had no idea how many times he would think to himself that loose lips sink ships.

Power struggles are never trivial matters.

Song Xuan carefully examined the painting and pondered for a while:
"I understand. Your Majesty is saying that the chick eats rice and gradually grows up, eventually turning into a phoenix by chance, just as she said at the banquet."

"This is the route the Empress Dowager took. It serves as a constant reminder to avoid violating the laws of the Song Dynasty and to resolutely restrain others. That is why this edict was written."

Liu E listened to Song Xuan's rambling and incoherent ramblings, yet he still managed to make sense of it all. It was truly difficult for him.

Song Xuan's words immediately made Liu E lose interest in continuing to test him.

For a moment, Liu E couldn't figure out whether Song Xuan was pretending to be confused or whether his associative mind had combined the events before and after.

Cao Yongli breathed a sigh of relief after hearing Song Xuan's rambling answer.

"I'm feeling a bit tired and need to take a nap. You may all leave."

Liu E was too lazy to ask others about the meaning of the painting; she believed that Cao Yong would explain it to Song Xuan at the right time.

So everyone took their leave.

Cao Yongli simply dragged Song Xuan home; after all, skipping work was fine.

It's unlikely that there will be any war in the Song Dynasty now, and besides, there's more than just Cao Cao as the Privy Councilor.

Inside the corridor, Shi Yuansun, who had just finished his patrol, immediately jogged over to Song Xuan.

He was in charge of the wine cellar when he heard that the emperor was going to host a banquet for the top scholar of the Song Dynasty.

Upon inquiry, it turned out to be Song Xuan.

Shi Yuansun quickly bowed to Cao Yongli, even though the Cao family's resources couldn't compare to the Shi family's.

However, Cao Li was a Privy Councilor, while he was just a minor guard in the Imperial Guard who looked after the wine cellar.

"Congratulations, Scholar Song!"

"Hahaha." Song Xuan laughed and returned the greeting, "It's just good luck."

"To achieve the triple crown in the imperial examinations must mean one has exceptional ability," Shi Yuansun congratulated Cao Yongli.

Cao Liyong's face was also very proud. He nodded rather reservedly and asked Shi Yuansun where he worked.

He understood what Shi Yuansun meant; he had come to inquire about how Song Xuan's classmate and friend was doing in his exams.

Song Xuan didn't see Fan Xiang either, but told Shi Yuansun to be patient and that the results would be out in a few days.

His case is an exception and not representative.

"Scholar Song, you certainly have a good capacity for alcohol. Was the jar of wine you sent delicious?"

"Delicious."

Song Xuan immediately realized: "You mean it was sent to the Emperor?"

"Yup!"

"Someone stole the wine."

Song Xuan and the official only drank a few small cups, which were poured from a small wine pot. How could there be a whole jar of wine?

"Ok?"

This was an extremely dereliction of duty on the part of Shi Yuansun, who was in charge of the wine cellar.

“Scholar Song, please don’t make fun of me. When I came back from the restroom, I saw with my own eyes that there was a jar of wine on the account, and I had already signed and sealed it.”

"Neglect is no small offense."

Cao Liyong chimed in, "Especially the items used in the palace, you didn't get a single benefit from them, but you're more likely to be the one to take the blame."

The Shi family is very wealthy!
Shi Yuansun had no interest in profiting from the wine cellar; he simply wanted to restore the Shi family to its former glory.

In his view, Song Xuan was an exceptionally intelligent person, as evidenced by his success in passing the imperial examinations three times in a row.

Besides, Song Xuan was the one who actually drank at this party, so how could he possibly lie to himself?
"Thank you for the reminder, Attendant-in-Ordinary Cao and Scholar Song. I will go back and investigate immediately."

"Don't alert the enemy."

Song Xuan mentioned it briefly.

Shi Yuansun bowed and thanked him. He was afraid that all his efforts to escape this place would be in vain, and he would be tricked by his subordinates into leaving the palace.

If this happens, how can I, as the eldest son and grandson of the Shi family, lead the Shi family to glory?

Cao Liyong glanced at Song Xuan:
“His subordinates stealing imperial wine is no small crime. If he gets implicated, he won’t even be able to keep his position as the minor official in charge of the wine cellar.”

"If he can find out the truth, he will be able to atone for his crime by doing good deeds. But if someone else finds out, he will easily be labeled as an accomplice!"

Song Xuan lowered his voice and said, "We are both from military families, so we should help each other. I'm just giving you a heads-up."

Cao Liyong looked at Song Xuan with even greater surprise. How could a scholar who had passed the imperial examinations three times in a row consider himself a son of a military family?
"What nonsense are you talking about?"

Cao Liyong looked around and saw that no one was there:

"Even if you marry my daughter, you will be an honest scholar, not some son of a military family. Don't say things like that again."

"Otherwise, how can you join the small clique of the civil service? These people are very exclusive, but you are different. They will easily accept you and even try to win you over."

Song Xuan glanced at him: "Does your father-in-law really care so much about his identity as a military officer?"

"Whether I care or not is completely unimportant. You are the top scholar of the Song Dynasty, and I am deeply moved that you can become the son-in-law of a martial artist. However, this is not conducive to your development in the court, so you should say less of these things."

Cao Liyong lowered his voice again and said:

“I’m afraid of your outspokenness. This is Tokyo, not Nanjing where you can do whatever you want.”

"A single misstep could ruin a promising future."

"Remember this: Tokyo is teeming with vicious wolves that will devour you without spitting out the bones!"

(End of this chapter)