A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 280 Everyone Wants to Cling to a Powerful Figure

Song Xuan understood Cao Liyong's good intentions.

My current strength is still too weak.

Therefore, there are wolves everywhere!
In his hometown of Lema Town and Songcheng, Song Xuan earned the respect of many people through his martial arts skills and wealth.

But this is Tokyo.

In this place, you need influence!
With a population of one million, Tokyo is the world's largest city, and naturally, there are many "small fry" vying for power.

Without exception, no one has ever succeeded!

Even though Song Xuan achieved the highest honors in all three imperial examinations, he is still just a little kid.

Even though he has many friends on the same list, most of them are little kids.

Most of them were sent to local areas to gain experience, and it might take several years or even more than a decade before they had the opportunity to return to Tokyo to serve as officials.

At that time, it might become an asset for Song Xuan in the imperial court.

Cao Liyong is right; Song Xuan's foundation is too weak.

The Cao family's foundation is not deep, so they can only keep a low profile for now.

"However, you handled today's matter very well."

Cao Li, still shaken, said:
"The older people get, the more timid they become. I've always thought that was nonsense. I, Lao Cao, have been daring my whole life, so why would I have such feelings in my old age?"

Cao Liyong looked at Song Xuan with great seriousness:

"Just as you said, I might really not be barefoot anymore."

"father."

Cao Yuan grinned and followed along.

He has already taken leave and will not be working the night shift tonight.

When there is a joyous occasion in the family, Shangguan is naturally very understanding.

Everyone knows that the Cao family is about to rise again!
A son-in-law who achieved the highest honors in all three imperial examinations was always the prime minister's prize, but Cao Shizhong snatched him away, and the top scholar of the Song Dynasty even agreed to it.

Where are you going to make sense?
As the eldest son of the Cao family, Cao Yuan held no official position; he simply stood guard in the palace.

However, it still has a certain prestige.

"What are you laughing at?"

Cao was quick to lash out at his son-in-law, but he was less restrained when it came to his son.

"Did you become the top scholar in the imperial examination?"

"You changed into civilian clothes here, getting ready to go off duty?"

"Hey hey hey."

Cao Yuan said with a grin, "Father, I'm just happy for my brother-in-law."

The Cao family's adult sons all served as imperial guards in the palace, while only the younger ones, such as Cao Xu, studied at the Imperial Academy, which was essentially just a formality.

As for Cao Xu's daily truancy, it doesn't matter; he just needs to pay a fine.

"Alright, we're about to leave the palace, so control your expression."

After giving instructions to his son and son-in-law, Cao led the way to the palace gate.

Han Yunsheng, as the head guard of the palace gate, immediately stepped forward and said:

"Congratulations, Privy Councilor Cao! Congratulations, Privy Councilor Cao! Your son-in-law not only won the top scholar title, but also achieved the triple crown! Wow, he really brings honor to our military officers!"

Han Yunsheng's grandfather was Han Chongyun, a famous general from the Later Zhou Dynasty to the early Northern Song Dynasty, a meritorious official of the Chenqiao Mutiny, who was also relieved of his military power with a cup of wine.

However, because Han Yunsheng and his father worked hard and married a princess, they did not fall into political disgrace like the Shi family.

Cao Li smiled as he listened to Han Yunsheng's flattery.

After all, these sons of military families are usually arrogant and haughty. Even though Cao Li is the number one military officer in the Song Dynasty, there are still many people who are not convinced by him.

Moreover, even though Cao Li was the Grand Councilor of the Song Dynasty, he only had the power to mobilize troops, not the power to command them. Although he participated in the selection and appointment of military officers, he could not make all the decisions.

He primarily provided strategic advice to the emperor on military and diplomatic matters.

Now Han Yunsheng stepped forward and said, "We are military generals."

Cao Li understood that all the benefits were brought by his son-in-law, Song Xuan.

“My son-in-law is very capable and writes excellent articles. I just benefit from his success.”

Although Cao Liyong warned his son and son-in-law not to laugh too wildly.

But even though he himself had a dog-like face, he still managed to stop laughing.

When Cao was praised so highly by others, he felt like he was floating on clouds.

Anyway, our son-in-law is the youngest person to achieve the highest honors in all three categories since the founding of the Song Dynasty. You can all be envious.

Han Yunsheng quickly congratulated Song Xuan and asked if he had any brothers or classmates.

He also has a younger sister at home, who is extremely beautiful, and he earnestly requests Song Xuan to introduce her to him.

Song Xuan smiled:
"Chief Han, I can't guarantee that the others have the same aesthetic sense as me. If I find someone suitable, I can ask around, but I can't guarantee whether it will work out."

Han Yunsheng was overjoyed.

This top scholar is truly a straightforward person.

He was nothing like the pedantic scholars he had encountered before.

Han Yunsheng then took the initiative to curry favor with Cao Liyong.

"After my son-in-law and his wife officially get married, come over to our house for a celebratory drink!"

"Oh dear, the Privy Councilor has personally invited me; I will certainly bring my family along."

Han Yunsheng watched as the three of them left the palace gate.

His eyes couldn't hide his envy.

Straight bastard.

Cao Liyong was fortunate enough to have all these good things happen to him.

When will our families, who used the "banquet to release military power" strategy, be able to find a son-in-law who passed the imperial examination?

It's not just about having face to talk about; it's also about making achievements in politics.

Who wouldn't want to lead troops into battle?

Or he could go to another place to become a governor or something similar, or go out to command a military force.

Standing guard in the palace every day is utterly useless. Looking across the entire Song Dynasty, who the hell would dare to attempt to assassinate the emperor?

There is a vacuum zone within fifty paces of the palace gate.

No civilians dared to approach easily, because the ballistae and archers on the city walls were no joke.

If anyone is spotted approaching, the Imperial Guards have the authority to shoot them without question.

"The palace examination is over, and some students have emerged."

Although the onlookers did not recognize Song Xuan, they immediately shouted when they saw that he was dressed as a scholar.

Most people didn't really believe that Song Xuan was named the top scholar in court.

After all, according to tradition, after the palace examination, the names of the successful candidates would be announced outside the Donghua Gate.

That was the time when the scholar first paid homage.

At this time, even if many students participated in the palace examination, they were not qualified to take that path.

Looking at the surging crowd, Cao Liyong said to Song Xuan:
"Let me handle this; you don't need to say a word."

Song Xuan nodded; he didn't have any old friends in Tokyo either.

So Cao Li, standing on the inside of the soldiers, immediately spoke:

"Fellow citizens of Tokyo, please give me, Cao Liyong, some face. My son-in-law is not feeling well today and should go home to rest. Please do not block our way home."

Cao Yuan was slightly stunned and looked at his father: Am I not human?
"It is Attendant-in-Ordinary Cao."

"His son-in-law is Song Xuan!"

After all, some people started shouting loudly, "Song Huiyuan came out so early, did he really become the top scholar?"
No gambling den in the entire capital city of Tokyo would accept bets from Song Xuan, the top scholar.

This is a great loss for Tokyo.

Someone in the crowd was introducing them.

Wang Yufeng quickly asked his servant to protect him, as the surrounding area was too crowded and noisy, making it difficult to hear clearly.

"Minister Cao, I heard that your son-in-law was publicly named the top scholar by the Emperor. Is this true?"

Upon hearing that a busybody had inquired about it, Cao Liyong flew into a rage:
"I'll get angry with anyone who brings this up today. I'm seething with anger."

"A dignified Hanlin scholar, unable to find a good son-in-law, actually poisoned my son-in-law during the palace examination!"

Hearing Cao's words, the onlookers were shocked.

"Poisoned?"

"This is too exciting."

Or perhaps Cao's words directly ignited the enthusiasm of the onlookers.

Who could believe that a Hanlin scholar could do such a thing?
Everyone thought it was a foregone conclusion that Song Xuan would become the top scholar, and everyone was waiting for a new person to achieve the triple crown of the imperial examination.

As a result, someone openly poisoned him.

Cao Liyong pulled Song Xuan over and pointed at his face, saying:

“Look at this, my son-in-law washed his face with ice water for a full quarter of an hour to keep himself awake, and now he’s frostbitten.”

The thugs standing at the front could tell from Song Xuan's face that he was indeed suffering from frostbite.

After all, they're familiar with this kind of thing!
Even being a scoundrel isn't easy; although the weather is getting warmer, it's still cold.

"My son-in-law, Song Xuan, finished writing a policy essay in less than a quarter of an hour, and the Emperor immediately named him the top scholar of the Song Dynasty!"

"That's why Chen's scheme failed!"

Cao Liyong stood in front of the crowd:
"Fellow villagers, please make way for me. I need to take my son-in-law to see a doctor."

Song Xuan's face did indeed show signs of frostbite.

The onlookers scrutinized Song Xuan, never expecting him to encounter such a setback.

Now that such shocking information has been revealed, they don't believe that Cao Liyong deliberately spread false information.

Even if he didn't do it, it must have been them!
"Who is this Hanlin Academician surnamed Chen?"

"I don't know."

"Chen Yaozi, he was our Kaifeng Prefecture's old man just a few days ago, but now his second brother Chen Yaozuo has taken his place and he has been promoted to Hanlin Academician."

"I remember he was also the top scholar in the Song Dynasty. I never expected him to do something like this."

I've heard an old saying that scholars despise each other.

"Bullshit, she clearly loves him but can't have him, so she wants to destroy him."

“If Attendant Cao dares to say it in public, it is most likely true.”

Cao Liyong's name was still quite well-known among some of the older people in Tokyo.

It is particularly tough on foreign powers.

Every time the Liao envoys caused trouble, it was Cao Liyong who went out to resolve it.

Some of the Song people who received the Liao envoys were extremely timid.

Unfortunately, those Liao envoys still respected Cao Liyong's authority.

As the Privy Councilor, Cao could certainly command the Imperial Guards to clear a path for him.

Too many people.

In Tokyo, many people make a living by selling the latest news.

So when something like this happens, they all ask questions carefully and then rush out in a frenzy, just to be the first to spread the news.

If it's too late, it won't fetch a good price.

"Twelfth brother."

Wang Gui, mounted on his horse, shouted, "The donkey cart is behind us!"

Song Xuan went straight for Wang Gui.

"Young master, have you secured the top scholar title?"

Jiao Ming's face showed excitement.

"Of course, a few palace examinations are nothing to me."

Song Xuan patted his chest with considerable pride:
"In the future, we will not only be the top scholar of the Song Dynasty, but also the winner of the triple crown, which is much more prestigious than being the top scholar alone."

"Hahaha."

"Yeah!"

"We brothers have hope now."

Even the usually composed Tao Hong was laughing so hard he almost jumped up.

Jiao Ming's face was full of joy. He immediately snatched the whip and told Wang Bao to wait there for the rest of the people.

Xu Xianchun stayed behind to keep him company, since the donkey now had Fan Xiang.

Wang Bao had no objections, he just chuckled, he was happy too.

Song Xuan became the top scholar in the Song Dynasty, with a bright future ahead. How could my future be bad if I followed him?
Moreover, before he became the top scholar, he himself never had the chance to go hungry again.

Wang Bao is now truly robust and strong, and could easily take on five opponents at once.

And it's very durable.

Xu Xianchun stared wide-eyed. He had thought that Song Xuan would become the top scholar, but he hadn't expected it to happen so quickly.

He heard that the music charts were being performed at Donghuamen?

It was even more exciting back then. Now that the biggest suspense has been revealed, will everyone go to see who came in second place?

"Walk."

Song Xuan, Cao Liyong, and their son, along with Tao Hong, climbed into a donkey cart, which was driven by Jiao Ming and headed towards Cao's residence.

Cao Liyong knew that Song Xuan's men depended on each other for survival, but he didn't know that they had a life-or-death bond.

"What are your plans regarding the Chen brothers?"

"I don't have any plans." Song Xuan shook his head.

"My connections in Tokyo are still weak, and I have no sources of information. I rely entirely on my father-in-law."

Cao clicked his tongue: "I don't actually have any sources of information. I can just wave and ask a few idle men!"

Song Xuan glanced at him.

You can buy information from idle people, and they can also sell you as information.

“If the young master were to become an official in Tokyo, we could open a branch of the bookstore here, but it would cost quite a bit of money.”

Tao Hong said with extreme caution:

“I’ve been wandering around Tokyo these days, and I’ve met all sorts of people. In particular, the power of Wuyou Cave has grown. Now they even dare to operate on the ground, selling stolen goods and people.”

black market.

It doesn't have to be kept running at night.

Besides, Tokyo is a city that never sleeps.

As for the Worry-Free Cave, Cao Yongli didn't care much; he was too lazy to even look at those bedbugs on a normal day.

"Worry-Free Cave is also called Ghost Fanlou, there's nothing to be afraid of."

Cao Yuan waved his hand dismissively: "Just a bunch of ants."

Neither Song Xuan nor Tao Hong said a word.

The fact that these ants have been able to occupy Tokyo for generations and grow in power speaks volumes.

"When Tokyo floods in the summer, a large number of these ants will be drowned."

Cao Yuan was very experienced; he had heard of the reputation of Gui Fanlou.

Every time there's a major flood, the streets are submerged, not to mention those living in the underpasses.

"However, I do not have the suitable sources of information you mentioned, especially from the common people, and the imperial court and the government would not allow me to have them."

Having served as Privy Councilor for many years, Cao Li still possessed a certain political acumen.

In particular, his downfall was entirely due to his nephew Cao Ne's involvement.

"There are some things that you can't let other people know."

Song Xuan's words immediately drew Cao Yuan's attention.

He had always thought his brother-in-law was a scholar skilled in archery, but after hearing this, he realized that Song Xuan truly had that kind of imposing presence.

Cao Yuan felt he didn't even possess such imposing presence, so he couldn't quite grasp it for a moment.

Cao Liyong, however, was well aware of Song Xuan's actions in Songcheng.

"This is not Nanjing, but Tokyo."

Cao Yong sighed softly, "If you throw a stone out, it will either hit an official's relative or a relative of the emperor."

In short, the relationships are complex and the population is large.

The imperial court has never been able to properly address the issue.

"You don't need to worry. I reckon you'll be given a prestigious official position, just like Song Xiang."

"That won't work."

Song Xuan leaned against the inside of the donkey cart: "It would be best if you could give me a position like Prefectural Magistrate, Magistrate, or Judge of Kaifeng Prefecture. I have my own ways of doing things."

"Are you crazy?"

Cao Liyong said somewhat excitedly:
"The previous prefect of Kaifeng was Chen Yaozi, and the current prefect is his second brother, Chen Yaozuo. How can you expect to suffer if you go to work under him?"

"Don't be fooled by your triple crown in the imperial examinations. Staying in Tokyo won't get you a powerful position like a sixth-rank official."

Generally speaking, the top three scorers (first, second, and third place) have the opportunity to stay in Tokyo.

"If he were to go to another place, he might become a sixth-rank sub-prefect, or a county magistrate, or even a judge of a military governor."

This is equivalent to becoming a deputy mayor all at once.

Cao Liyong stroked his beard and said:
"I've asked the others, and the top scholar usually works in the Directorate of Works, the Three Departments, the Imperial Household Department, or the Imperial Academy. But based on your grades, you should be promoted very quickly."

“I remember that the last Song Xiang who passed the imperial examination in three consecutive years was appointed as a judge of the Dali Temple and concurrently served as the prefect of Xiangzhou. He was promoted to the fifth rank of Crown Prince’s Assistant.”

Cao Liyong glared at his son:
“You already said that Song Xiang was personally selected as the top scholar by the Empress Dowager, which was an exception. Your brother-in-law was selected as the top scholar by the Emperor, so the Empress Dowager certainly didn’t care as much about him.”

"I don't have much of a problem with officials of a certain rank. I just want to train myself so that when I enter the court in the future, I won't be easily fooled by what my subordinates say."

Cao Li nodded. In the future, Song Xuan would be facing the position of prime minister. How could he be deceived by his subordinates?
"Think about it first. You're almost certain to become prime minister in the future."

"Not necessarily. Since the founding of the Song Dynasty, how many top scholars have emerged? Only Lü Mengzheng and Wang Zeng have actually reached the position of prime minister, right?"

Cao Liyong thought for a moment and said, "And then there's Li Di."

"The competition is quite fierce."

Cao Liyong nodded.

It turns out that even becoming the top scholar in the imperial examination doesn't guarantee one's position as prime minister.

The three Chen brothers were all top scholars in the imperial examinations.

Chen Yaosou became the vice prime minister only when he was critically ill. He was unable to take up the post and resigned several times before Emperor Zhenzong finally agreed to send him to serve as an official in a remote area.

Not long after, he fell critically ill, and was allowed to return to Beijing, where he died.

However, Cao Li believed that with Song Xuan's restless spirit, he would surely be able to secure the position of prime minister. Song Xuan chuckled and said:
"However, there is still the grand court assembly. I will use this time to compare the official ranks again and then subtly inquire with His Majesty later."

"Row."

Without a second thought, Cao Liyong said, "Tomorrow I'll go to the Ministry of Personnel and find a register of officials so you can take a good look at it."

After all, matters such as the promotion of officials were handled by the Ministry of Personnel.

Song Xuan nodded, not refusing.

"First, gain experience in Tokyo for two years, and then it would be best to get a job and go to another place to become a prefect."

Cao Liyong narrowed his eyes slightly and said:
"Only in this way can you make your own decisions, and everyone else will have to watch your face. Being a prefect is really meaningless."

Song Xuan nodded, especially since the local prefectural magistrate was not a single person, but could be several deputy mayors, each in charge of their own area of ​​business.

"After you get home, don't tell your mother-in-law or Qingyao about being drugged with a sleeping potion."

"clear."

Cao Liyong actually had a simple concept.

That means we men can fight and die outside, but we shouldn't bring trouble upon our wives and daughters.

This is the bottom line.

Tao Hong didn't say much.

Actually, he felt there was an official position that was quite suitable for Song Xuan, but he would discuss it when there were no other candidates.

At this point, the Cao family hung up all the big red lanterns and bought a lot of firecrackers.

Moreover, the servants had been waiting anxiously at the door for a long time, and had even gone out onto the street.

There were quite a few onlookers around.

Cao Yuan jumped off the donkey cart, enjoying the envious looks from those around him.

He couldn't possibly do something like wearing fine clothes in the dark.

Now the Cao family has finally "caught" a good son-in-law. Which family in Tokyo wouldn't envy them?
After all, in their minds, the seven Cao brothers had snatched Song Xuan back from among thousands of men.

Tao Hong also lifted the curtain and sat outside.

A servant quickly brought over wooden steps to make it easier for Cao Yongli and Song Xuan to come down.

"Light the firecrackers."

With a shout from the old servant of the Cao family.

The crackling sound of firecrackers immediately filled both sides of the street.

Song Xuan stood at the door, his face beaming with smiles.

This kind of setup looks like a wedding procession, starting with setting off firecrackers on the roadside and continuing all the way to the front door without stopping.

Once the smoke cleared, Cao Yong smiled and bowed to the onlookers, saying that he would invite them to have a drink after the results were announced.

As for attending the wedding banquet, we'll have to postpone that for now.

We can't possibly do two things at the same time; how can that be possible?
The Cao family also cares about their reputation!

Madam Cao, also known as Lady Li, found Song Xuan very pleasing to the eye.

Not only was he handsome, but he was also incredibly talented, so his family practically snatched him away to be their son-in-law.

"Good son-in-law, why is your face so red?"

"I was so excited to be announced as the top scorer in court that I blushed. The bleeding will stop in a couple of days."

"I see." Madam Cao smiled. "Such a joyous occasion, why not reserve a table at Fanlou?"

"next time."

Song Xuan smiled and said, "So that my mother-in-law knows, my classmates and I have made plans to have a big meal at our place after the exams."

"That's fine."

Madam Cao did not insist.

Anyway, as long as the son-in-law has his own plans, that's fine.

She then pushed Cao Qingyao over, telling her not to stand there like an idiot and to quickly talk to her future husband.

Cao Qingyao is actually quite free-spirited, but the difference in status between her and Song Xuan makes her somewhat insecure.

So I just stood there, blushing.

Song Xuan chuckled twice and immediately asked:
"Qingyao, do you know how to grind ink?"

"meeting."

“Alright, let’s go to the study. I need to write a letter to the headmaster of my academy and my family to inform them in advance about my becoming the top scholar.”

"Okay." Cao Qingyao was very happy that she could help Song Xuan.

So the man and woman went to the study alone, under the watchful eyes of the entire Cao family.

Nobody thought there was anything wrong with it.

Song Xuan wanted to write three letters.

His first letter was to the old buddies at the Twelve Bookshops.

He told them the good news, and also let Qian Shishi know so she could be happy. After he finished his work, he planned to return home in glory and then take up an official post.

The second letter was written to Fan Zhongyan, in which he talked about his success in the imperial examination and the possibility of becoming an official in the capital. He also mentioned the Chen brothers.

In short, he told Fan Zhongyan everything in great detail.

Song Xuan believed that Lao Fan was extremely responsible and might give him some advice.

After all, he also succeeded through the imperial examination system, and he was not only a teacher but also his "senior senior"!
Fan Zhongyan was also a student who graduated from Yingtian Academy.

The last letter was written to his grandfather, telling him that he had become the top scholar in the imperial examination, that the Cao family had chosen him as their son-in-law, and that he had been framed. He asked his grandfather to take good care of his father and second brother.

After all, they've become the top scholar in the imperial examinations; surely someone will set them up for it.

Even those people would give them money for pleasure just to curry favor with them, and in the end, they would be the ones to pay the price.

Because Song Xuan genuinely doesn't believe what gambling addicts say; their thought processes are completely different from normal people!

After he finished writing, Cao Qingyao, who was sitting opposite Song Xuan, realized that Song Xuan's handwriting was actually quite pleasing to the eye.

When she thought back to when her father said he would find her a good-looking man who would most likely become a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations), Cao Qingyao couldn't believe it.

As the daughter of a military family, she had a certain level of understanding.

It's common knowledge that even the daughters of established military families in the capital city of Tokyo could marry the emperor, but not a scholar who had passed the imperial examination!

Therefore, Cao Qingyao had no hope at all.

It wasn't until Song Xuan's radiant appearance that Cao Qingyao realized her father was telling the truth.

After all, some women really love the modeling.

Even Cao Qingyao felt somewhat inferior because she was not considered a beauty by the standards of the literati.

However, rumors circulated in the streets that Song Xuan had fallen in love with him at first sight, which was why he so readily agreed to become the son-in-law of the Cao family and refused to become the son-in-law of Prime Minister Lü Yijian.

Cao Qing smiled and looked at him as he continued writing.

However, the Cao family had guests.

That was his father-in-law, Li Shiheng, who came with his grandson, Li Junyou.

The father-in-law and son-in-law were talking here.

Li Shiheng was very satisfied with Cao Liyong's foresight in identifying Song Xuan as the top scholar in advance.

In fact, the grandfather knew that his granddaughter Cao Qingyao did not conform to the aesthetic standards of the Song Dynasty literati.

He guessed that Cao and Song Xuan had become friends when they were both in humble circumstances.

According to popular belief, it was impossible for Song Xuan to fall in love with Cao Qingyao at first sight.

"Where is my granddaughter's husband?"

"He was in his study writing letters to his teacher and elders to tell them the good news."

Li Shiheng stroked his beard and smiled: "That's only right."

Cao Liyong's face was full of smugness as he looked at Li Shiheng:
"Father-in-law, my judgment in choosing a son-in-law is now far superior to yours!"

"I am only a Privy Councilor now, but given time, my son-in-law will surely become the prime minister."

"Hahaha."

After Cao finished speaking, Li Shiheng burst into laughter:
"You, you still love to fight."

In fact, Song Xuan becoming prime minister was a good thing for the Li family.

He spent his entire life scheming and calculating finances, accumulating wealth that would have been enough for three generations to spend, thanks to his reputation as a notorious corrupt official.

It seems that all of the Li family's intelligence is concentrated in him.

Li Shiheng's children and grandchildren are truly all worthless.

He couldn't pass the imperial examination; he could only become a minor official through hereditary privilege.

Cao Liyong chuckled. He had initially thought Song Xuan was a good match for him, a mere scholar who dared to defy a Hanlin scholar whose rank was comparable to that of a prime minister.

Dou Chou's eventual suicide might have been forced by Song Xuan.

Li Shiheng interrupted Cao Liyong's recollection: "I heard Junyou talk about being poisoned. Tell me the details."

After Cao finished speaking, Li Shiheng fell into deep thought.

Through Song Xuan and Cao Liyong's maneuvering, they have now gained the sympathy of the Emperor and the Empress Dowager, but since they lack evidence, it is truly difficult to suppress Chen Yaozi.

Just then, Song Xuan finished writing the three letters and packed them up. He then handed them to the old servant and asked him to help deliver them when he had some free time.

The Song Dynasty also had specialized mail delivery and long-distance express delivery services, both official and private.

Cao Liyong pulled Song Xuan aside and introduced the grandfather and grandson in front of him.

Song Xuan greeted him politely, "I have met Junyou more than once."

"Ah, I am unworthy of such praise."

Li Junyou's face lit up with even greater joy.

After all, being called "brother" by someone who has won three consecutive top honors is a very prestigious thing.

Cao then briefly recounted his father-in-law's remarkable achievements, highlighting his exceptional abilities during his more than twenty years in the Zhenzong Emperor's reign.

Now, upon hearing his opinion, Song Xuan was overjoyed; he was still a greenhorn in officialdom.

"The Chen brothers are Lu Yijian's men. He may not be a big shot now, but his roots are deep."

Li Shiheng stroked his beard and said leisurely, "Therefore, this matter still needs to be impeached. You should not show your face. You should follow the example of a hidden dragon and keep your sharp edge hidden."

"However, although Lü Yijian is powerful, he is not a monolithic force. The Emperor has also grown up, and the Empress Dowager will realize that Lü Yijian is not a true member of her faction."

"The Chen brothers have lost so much face, they will naturally want to get it back. They will make the first move, so you should remain calm and wait for the right moment."

"It's not just Lü Yijian who's secretly cultivating his own faction in the court; there are others who will also become your allies."

Because many family members were present, and they didn't understand the political infighting very well, Li Shiheng didn't explain it too clearly.

"In short, it was a strategy of retreating to advance, luring the enemy into a trap."

Song Xuan picked up his teacup and took a sip. He actually understood Li Shiheng's words to some extent.

Empress Liu considered Lü Yijian to be one of her men, and he wanted to find an opportunity to arouse her suspicion.

At the same time, there would be secret power struggles between Empress Dowager Liu and the Emperor, which presented an opportunity for them to act.

Then unite those who do not belong to Lü Yijian's faction, and even those who oppose Lü Yijian.

Inspired by Li Shiheng, Song Xuan then considered how to make the Chen brothers the target of public criticism, or even kick them out of the Lü faction, so that it would be easier for him to do his thing.

However, he didn't know Lü Yijian very well, and it might be inappropriate to act rashly.

"Listening to my grandfather's words was truly enlightening!"

Cao Liyong was still squinting in thought when he heard Song Xuan's flattering words.

Li Shiheng laughed heartily; he knew Song Xuan was someone who was easily seen through.

While they were chatting and laughing, Cao Liyong received another report that Wang Shirong, the grandson of the King of Qin, had come to request an audience.

Prince Qin, Wang Shenqi, was one of the ten brothers of the Righteous Society. Apart from his eldest son who married the daughter of Emperor Taizu of Song, his other eight sons remained unknown and served as guards in the palace.

By the time of the grandson's generation, there were no official positions. Only the princess's son, because of his royal connections, held a post outside the palace, so much so that he always sat in front of his uncles at family gatherings, which was ridiculed by the world.

Cao Yuan knew Wang Shirong; they were both staying in the inner palace.

"Please come in."

Cao Li spoke up, wanting to see what this grandson of the old general was up to.

Wang Shirong, accompanied by his son Wang Kechen, explained their purpose.

His thirteen-year-old son was fond of reading, composing poetry, and understanding music. He also wanted to take the imperial examination route and hoped that Song Xuan could give him some advice.

Upon hearing this, Cao Liyong immediately felt a sense of admiration.

Some sons of military families wanted to take the imperial examinations, but it was very difficult for them to succeed.

The Wang family had fallen so low that generations of its members had to serve as imperial guards. Wang Shirong did not want his son to follow the same path. Since his son loved reading, he did his best to help him pass the imperial examination.

Perhaps we can find a way out.

Cao Liyong remained silent, but he felt that these scions of veteran military families also had a difficult life.

With the Song Dynasty's national policy, they have no right to act arrogantly; they are destined to be suppressed.

However, if one were to switch to a clerical position and take the imperial examination, one would likely be extremely welcomed.

Song Xuan did not refuse and immediately tested him on the Four Books and Five Classics, as well as asked him to compose a poem on the spot, which was quite proper.

"He has studied very thoroughly. If he had a few good teachers to instruct him, he would surely pass the imperial examination."

Hearing Song Xuan's words, Wang Shirong was overjoyed and hurriedly asked Song Xuan if he could give his son some guidance, promising to pay for it.

Song Xuan thought for a moment: "I might be busy serving as an official in the capital. As for learning from me, I'm not very good at teaching, because I'm naturally good at writing. Do you understand?"

Wang Shirong nodded, acknowledging that this innate quality was unmatched.

"However, if you are willing to let your son leave home to study hard at Yingtian Academy, he may be able to make up for his shortcomings. After all, the imperial examination has been reformed. Poetry is no longer the standard for selecting officials. Policy essays are still the focus."

Wang Shirong thought for a while. He was simply disgusted that his older brother, Wang Shilong, relied on his good family background and did not respect the family's uncles and brothers.

He was also determined to prove himself and help his son pass the imperial examination.

Then we can return the humiliation in full force.

"Once the news of Yingtian Academy dominating the rankings spreads, it seems that everyone will have to go to the academy to study from now on."

Li Shiheng added a reminder: "Make a decision soon, otherwise there won't be any spots available even if you want to go."

"Thank you all."

Wang Shirong stood up, thanked the people, bowed, and finally left with his son.

He still made up his mind and decided to send his son to Yingtian Academy.

After Wang Shirong left, Cao Liyong glanced at Song Xuan and said to his father-in-law:

"I think he wants his son to be Song Xuan's student?"

"That's right." Li Shiheng nodded slightly.

"However, they have clearly miscalculated. The learning methods used by a genius like Twelfth Brother are not applicable to ordinary people."

"However, with the encouragement of Twelfth Brother, I believe it will help him make up his mind."

Cao Liyong then thought of his three sons who were studying at the Imperial Academy.

Everyone else gets their money from the Imperial Academy, but my son has to pay for his schooling every time.

The imperial court allocated farmland to the Imperial Academy.

The Imperial College rented out these farmlands to tenant farmers.

The collected grain and land rent could be used as operating funds for the school, and the Imperial College also had a large number of buildings for rent.

The Imperial College uses this money to pay for students' meals every month, but if you make a mistake, you will be fined.

Many sons of officials don't care about fines.

"Twelve, if you have time, give Cao Xu and the others some pointers and help them settle down. I think the imperial examinations will be even more difficult in the future."

Li Shiheng spoke Cao Yong's mind on his behalf, then pointed to his grandson:
"He was mischievous and not very good at studying, but he knew a bit about Tokyo and had some connections with other families' children."

"If you were an official in Tokyo and wanted to guard against the Chen brothers' retaliation, you would probably lack information channels."

"Let your cousin help you. Anyway, it's a waste of money for him to study at the Imperial Academy. He's just idling around."

Li Junyou hadn't expected his grandfather to introduce him like that, but he could understand.

If we don't seize this opportunity now, many families in Tokyo will want to get close to Song Xuan.

If it can be hung on his leg hair in the future, it will guarantee that the family's wealth and prosperity will continue for generations to come.

This is beyond doubt.

"That would be great."

Song Xuan is currently lacking sources of information.

They are also related by marriage, making them natural allies.

According to the unspoken rules of the Song Dynasty, if your in-laws get into trouble, you will also be implicated.

The nine clans are connected.

But if you get promoted, how can you not take care of your in-laws?

It's all just human nature.

Li Junyou also knew about this outcome; he immediately went to tell his grandfather the news.

Li Shiheng then made a judgment: although Song Xuan had offended a political force, it didn't matter.

This level of risk is still tolerable.

Everyone's betting on the future, isn't that right!
"There's no time like the present, let's drink until we're completely drunk tonight, as a way of celebrating for you in advance."

Hearing Li Shiheng's suggestion, Song Xuan explained again, and he also needed to think about the ins and outs of the matter and make preparations in advance to deal with the Chen brothers' retaliation.

"That's fine."

Li Shiheng understood that Song Xuan's classmates might not be so important at this moment, but perhaps in a few years, it would be this group of people who filled important positions in the court.

Cultivating good relationships is also a way to expand one's own strength.

That's exactly what Lü Yijian did.

Seeing that it was getting late, Song Xuan got up to say goodbye and said they would meet again another day.

Everyone watched him leave. If Cao Li really escorted Song Xuan to the door, that would be a betrayal of the Heavenly Gang!
Jiao Ming and Tao Hong were laughing and joking on the donkey cart.

"Winning three consecutive championships!"

Jiao Ming chuckled, "Young Master used to be last in the exams at the Song family private school, it was all an act!"

"What do you think."

Tao Hong smiled and said, "You shouldn't have had such thoughts when the young master passed the imperial examination with top honors."

"I never dared to imagine this before!"

Jiao Ming leaned against the donkey cart, looking up at the gloomy sky:

"Life is getting better and better now. Wouldn't it be considered a triumphant homecoming if we returned to Tokyo?"

"What do you call returning home in glory?"

Tao Hong curled his lip in disdain: "Only when we have truly established ourselves in Tokyo will we be able to return home in glory."

Just then, Song Xuan emerged from the main gate of the Cao residence:
"What are you two whispering about? You're looking down at the stone slab and then up at the bolt from the blue, looking all worried?"

(End of this chapter)