A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 349 That, I know a little about it.

"Sixth Brother, people thrive when they move, but trees die when they are moved."

Song Xuan waved his fan and laughed:

"As the saying goes, if one door closes, another opens; when a person is in a good mood, they are healthier."

Zhao Zhen now truly understood that Song Xuan's words at this moment were correct.

Since coming to live at Yuqing Zhaoying Palace, he has felt completely relaxed.

It's not as depressing as it was in the palace.

I always feel like there's a mountain pressing down on my head, and I can't breathe at all.

Although Song Xiang was sometimes present, he also had his own duties to perform.

Since he wasn't there, Zhao Zhen slipped out to play with Song Xuan.

Having been confined in the palace for so long, Zhao Zhen often acted timidly and hesitantly when faced with various situations, never daring to express his own opinions immediately.

Now that I am outside the palace, there is nothing to restrain me.

How could Zhao Zhen not be happy?
Even his behavior gradually became bolder.

While Song Xuan and his companion chatted idly, Zhang Fangping downstairs was so engrossed in his conversation that he just wanted to run away.

"Why don't we just go to Fanlou for a meal?"

Hearing Yang Xiaoniangzi's words, Zhang Fangping declared righteously that he would never go to Fanlou.

Because they owed taxes and refused to pay, openly opposing the imperial court.

We'll have to consider whether Fanlou intends to override the laws of the Song Dynasty.

In the past, Fanlou offered views of the imperial city, and people could jokingly remark, "The elegance of the Song Dynasty."

But nowadays, with all sorts of Douyin+ products emerging, that's no longer the elegant style of the Song Dynasty.

It was blatant disrespect for the royal family!
With such a history, it's no wonder that Fanlou dared to openly oppose the imperial court.

Zhang Fangping didn't mention Song Xuan's name, but the young women understood.

The current situation is entirely due to Fanlou's refusal to give face to Song Xuan, the top scholar in the imperial examination.

The news spread throughout the streets and alleys of Tokyo in less than a night.

With some people fanning the flames, it's hard to imagine this matter not being discussed.

Literate people can read the newly published tabloids.

The illiterate listened to people preaching at tea stalls and in the entertainment districts.

Many people in Tokyo were eager to hear the stories of Song Xuan, the top scholar in the imperial examination.

Furthermore, since some people pay to speak on behalf of others, those who receive the benefits will naturally spare no effort in spreading the word about how Fanlou, being a large and powerful business, bullies its customers.

After all, this newly crowned champion's style of doing things is truly unique.

But Zhang Fangping wasn't wrong; Song Xuan did represent the face of the imperial court.

If you fail to pay your taxes, that is the primary responsibility of Fanlou.

People like you who make a fortune every day don't pay taxes, and the other shops are following suit.

What should the imperial court do if it can't collect taxes?
Zhang Fangping took the opportunity to politely decline everyone's invitations, saying that he and his friends, including Song Xuan, would have a meal together during their day off.

If there's a chance, let's talk again next time.

Zhang Fangping then fled the area immediately.

The young lady, who can ride a fine horse and play polo on the field with excellent skills, also has a rather fiery temper.

Zhang Fangping ran up to the stands, not even bothering to wipe his sweat, and immediately signaled for everyone to leave.

He shouldn't linger here; he was too annoyed by the chattering of a bunch of women.

Song Xuan didn't care and left with his wife.

A bunch of young women were left there stamping their feet in anger.

After all, he put all his skills into playing polo today.

As a result, Zhang Fangping actually chose to have dinner with other men.

It really didn't make them understand.

Once on the donkey cart, Zhang Fangping leaned against the side and shook his head, saying:

"Twelfth Brother, I don't want to marry too many women in the future. Three women together are always chattering and annoying."

"That's true, one woman is like five hundred ducks quacking in your ear."

"Most men can't handle three women. Even if your married life is harmonious, it won't last long."

Listening to Song Xuan's explanation, Zhang Fangping held up his finger:
"Then I'll try to keep it to two from now on, one wife and one concubine, otherwise I won't be able to handle it."

"Haha, that's a wise move. As the saying goes, three women make a drama. The palace intrigues among the concubines in the imperial palace are quite a sight to behold."

Song Xuan, fanning himself, said:
"After all, they don't have much to do on a daily basis, so they either try to win the emperor's favor and strive to become empress."

"Either you want to be the center of attention and trample other women under your feet."

Zhang Fangping looked at Zhao Zhen, hoping he could refute Song Xuan.

However, Zhao Zhen did not experience palace intrigue.

He used to not even have the freedom to go to bed.

However, Zhao Zhen still agreed with Song Xuan's analogy that one woman was equivalent to five hundred ducks quacking in his ear.

Even a woman like Empress Guo could be worth a thousand ducks on her own.

Seeing the probing look in Zhang Fangping's eyes, Zhao Zhen coughed:
Where do we go next?

"Let's go to Sun Yang's main store for a meal and show our support."

Song Xuan gave an order, and the servants driving the donkey cart outside immediately started driving.

Cao Qingyao actually agreed with some of Song Xuan's words.

While playing polo, she discovered that the girls on the same team all had their own cliques and collectively looked down on other girls.

It was really lively.

Therefore, she was somewhat puzzled as to how her husband, who had never experienced having both a wife and a concubine, could arrive at such a thought-provoking conclusion.

Seeing that Song Xuan didn't press him for an answer, Zhao Zhen breathed a sigh of relief.

Zhao Zhen is currently very concerned about the fact that family scandals should not be aired in public.

After all, she was the Empress.

If this gets out, it will seriously damage the emperor's prestige.

Zhao Zhen quickly diverted everyone's attention and then asked Zhang Fangping:
"Zhang Dalang, among all those young ladies in the audience today, is there any that catch your eye?"

Zhang Fangping originally wanted to find out some gossip about whether the emperor's concubines were involved in palace intrigue.

Unexpectedly, the emperor didn't respond, but instead threw the question back at him.

Zhang Fangping shook his head:

"I was so focused on watching their polo skills that I didn't really look at their faces."

Competitive sports can be very attractive at times.

Often, people are more focused on the match itself than on whether the athletes are pretty girls or handsome young men.

"It's a pity."

Zhao Zhen was also holding a fan in his hand:

"I thought you had your eye on the girl on the losing team."

Zhang Fangping didn't say anything, but just fanned himself to cool off.

Cao Qingyao observed Zhang Fangping for a moment and felt that he didn't seem to be telling the truth.

However, it's not a big deal. Once the two parties get to know each other, there will be plenty of opportunities.

In many families, the girls are arranged by their parents; how could they possibly have the chance to choose for themselves?
Now that an unmarried scholar has suddenly appeared in Tokyo, it's no wonder that all the eligible young ladies are vying for him.

If we can invite you to play polo today, we can invite you to fly kites tomorrow.

Recreational activities include mountain climbing and boating on the Bian River.

A more imposing lady could directly invite Zhang Fangping to travel and learn archery at the mountain.

Regardless of how high or low the mountains are in Kaifeng, any mountain will do.

You can also go to various gardens for spring outings and fun.

Because Song Dynasty officials had many holidays, it was quite normal for them to take their families on outings during their leisure time.

This provided a new way to take women from the literati class on outings.

In addition, many private gardens are open to the public, serving as occasions for socializing.

Whether it was Han Qi, Ouyang Xiu, Zeng Gong, Huang Tingjian, or others, they all wrote about scenes of men and women going out for leisure.

Cao Qingyao believed that Zhang Fangping needed the kind of husband-dominant, wife-submissive marital relationship, which was extremely common in the Song Dynasty.

The scholars of the Song Dynasty rectified disorder and were disseminators of Confucian rites and laws.

These women were mostly influenced by Confucian etiquette and were thus.

Cao Qingyao felt that her husband did not share Zhang Fangping's thoughts.

He hoped he could help him, get involved in some foreign affairs, and even offer him advice.

At the same time, Song Xuan respected his own opinion and did not strictly distinguish between master and servant.

There aren't many scholars who have this kind of marital relationship; the most famous example is Zhao Mingcheng and Li Qingzhao.

Unlike Zhang Fangping, who was unaware of the emperor's family affairs, Cao Qingyao knew about Empress Guo's affairs through conversations with her girlfriends.

They are the type of couple with a lot of conflict; the typical example is a shrew or a jealous wife.

In Confucianism, jealousy is one of the "seven grounds for divorce".

From simple acts of disrespecting one's parents to unauthorized disposal of the husband's family's property and private gifts to the wife's family, these practices were formally included in the laws of the Tang Dynasty and have been passed down through generations.

Therefore, Cao Qingyao couldn't understand what Empress Guo was thinking.

Now she is childless, jealous, and even talkative in the palace.

He violated three of the seven grounds for divorce.

Even if an ordinary person divorced his wife according to the laws of the Song Dynasty, he would not be punished.

Because if a man divorces his wife when she is not at fault, he will be subject to criminal punishment.

This is also a law that protects women.

Just like some scholars who passed the imperial examination and became Jinshi, you can't stop me from moving towards a better future.

Then he would abandon his wife, or even favor his concubine over his wife.

Just like Lü Mengzheng's father, Lü Guitu, who directly expelled the young Lü Mengzheng and his mother from the house.

His mother took her son back to her parents' home, but was also kicked out by her sister-in-law.

The mother and daughter, who came from an official family, became beggars until Lü Mengzheng passed the imperial examination at the age of thirty-four and became the top scholar, which finally turned their lives around.

He wrote the timeless masterpiece "Ode to the Broken Kiln" for this.

Lu Mengzheng had also done the same thing, taking Fan Xiang and others to temples for free meals, except that the monks there didn't treat him well.

Cao Qingyao believed that the emperor was a little older but still had no children.

That would be a very serious matter.

Even if the Empress Dowager specifically favored Empress Guo, the court officials would not agree.

Not to mention that Zhao Zhen had no brothers on the surface.

There was only one "brother" whose authenticity was unknown left among the people, and he certainly would not become the emperor's successor.

Having biological offspring was a very important matter for the emperor.

Cao Qingyao only glanced at "Sixth Brother" and did not voice her doubts.

After all, his husband had not revealed Sixth Brother's identity.

At the same time, Sixth Brother did not reveal it himself.

That is, they didn't want her, this woman, to know.

Cao Qingyao wouldn't be presumptuous and show off in front of others.

After resting for a while, the group arrived at Sun Yang's restaurant. Stepping out of the car, they still felt extremely hot and humid.

I break out in a sweat after walking just a few steps.

My whole body felt like it was being roasted.

Such high temperatures do indeed pose a risk of drought.

The waiter at Sun Yang's restaurant quickly came over to invite them in and asked if they had made a reservation.

Because multiple legitimate stores coordinated their actions, the effect of diverting customers from Fanlou was already showing results.

Especially since today is an official's day off, they can openly drink and make merry.

At this time, Sun Yang's restaurant was already full, and we would have to wait a while.

Upon hearing that there was no appointment, the waiter looked him over again, then cupped his hands and said:
"Is it Lord Song?"

"Ah."

The waiter's face immediately broke into a smile:
"I almost didn't recognize you, Master Song. It's my fault. This way, please."

"Didn't they say there were no seats available?" Zhao Zhen asked.

The waiter quickly added:

"The manager had said long ago that if Scholar Song came to the restaurant for a meal, regardless of whether he had made a reservation or not, a private room would be reserved for his exclusive use."

Song Xuan hadn't eaten at Sun Yang's restaurant for a long time.

So he was very puzzled about this matter.

"Why?"

Zhao Zhen took the initiative to ask a question.

"Before Song Zhuangyuan became the top scholar, he hosted a banquet for his classmates in the small shop. Many of them also passed the exam, which made the shop feel very honored. That's why the shopkeeper set this rule."

"I see."

Emperor Zhao Zhen himself was very satisfied with the list of successful candidates in the imperial examinations of the fifth year of the Tiansheng era.

Not to mention the admiration and adoration others have for the top scorer.

"Lead the way."

Song Xuan didn't bother to explain why Sun Yangzhengdian reacted so quickly because he had "attacked" Fanlou.

The rules and details were still the same as before.

The group went straight up to the second floor and sat in a private room.

Zhang Maoze took the initiative to pour tea for everyone.

After they were seated, Zhao Zhen looked at Cao Qingyao and said:

"Sister-in-law, I want to ask you a question."

"Sixth Brother, please speak freely."

"What do you think about Twelfth Brother taking a concubine?"

Cao Qingyao put down her teacup and said very seriously:
"Of course I agree, but I need to give birth to a son for you first."

The position of an adopted son within the clan was extremely important, and it was also crucial for maintaining the stability of scholar-official families.

Especially under the influence of Confucianism, having offspring and continuing the family line were considered the most important things within the family.

As long as one has descendants, whether they take the imperial examinations, go into business, or even join the imperial guards, they will have a chance to rise in the ranks.

Once the family line ends, it is easy for the entire family to be exploited.

Of course, as large numbers of families in the Song Dynasty participated in the imperial examinations, many sons born out of wedlock passed the exams and improved their family status, so the distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children became less strict.

Although Cai Jing was a son of a concubine, all the legitimate sons of the Cai family had to listen to him.

More recently, Song Xuan, Han Qi, and others were all sons born out of wedlock.

However, although Han Qi's mother, Madam Hu, was a concubine, she was able to rely on her own wisdom and talent.

Before Han Qi passed the imperial examination, she had already gained her husband's trust and was entrusted with managing the household affairs, enjoying a high status in the family.

Zhao Zhen expressed his understanding of Cao Qingyao's words.

He used to think that way too.

Unfortunately, Empress Guo was truly an inhuman son.

Zhao Zhen truly did not want to sleep in the same bed with her, and he loathed her actions from the bottom of his heart.

But Zhang Fangping, who knew the truth, picked up his teacup and took a sip.

Although Cao's wife is not pregnant yet, little girls in their hometown are already calling Twelfth Brother "Daddy".

When Zhang Fangping met Song Xuan's two women, he discovered that Twelfth Brother's preferences for women were remarkably consistent and had never changed.

In fact, Zhang Fangping was also struggling with whether to emulate Song Xuan's aesthetic sense.

Because the mainstream aesthetic of the Song Dynasty's scholar-official class was indeed different from that of Song Xuan.

Song Xuan glanced at Zhang Fangping, then gently patted Cao Qingyao's shoulder:

“You are still young. Having children too early is not good for your health and carries risks. There’s no rush.”

"Ah."

Cao Qingyao knew, of course, that her husband possessed certain skills in medicine.

Otherwise, after being married for so long and having so much fun at night, how could she not get pregnant?

Zhao Zhen truly envied Song Xuan.

He really wanted to have a child.

But nothing has happened yet.

As the emperor, he fully agreed with Cao Qingyao's statement regarding the issue of an heir.

"I want a child too."

Song Xuan then turned to Zhao Zhen and said:
"If Sixth Brother wants children, he should not sleep with those younger women."

Zhao Zhen hurriedly asked Song Xuan to teach him.

How old is considered a young woman?
He couldn't appreciate Cao Qingyao's figure, nor did he understand why his twelfth brother fell in love with her at first sight.

Song Xuan had no idea what Zhao Zhen was thinking:
"Based on the current diet and nutrition, I think Sixth Brother should find a woman over twenty years old, as it would be easier for him to conceive."

"Especially about fifteen or sixteen days after menstruation, the chances of conceiving a child after intercourse are higher."

Cao Qingyao was dumbfounded.

She really didn't expect her husband to know these things.

Zhang Fangping also said that he had learned a lot.

Zhao Zhen was overjoyed.

He immediately extended his hand, asking Song Xuan to diagnose him.

Song Xuan reached out to take his pulse.

In fact, young people have a strong ability to recover physically, but Zhao Zhen, as emperor, suffered from excessive mental stress from a young age.

Now that I'm older, I still feel a tightness in my chest.

Adding to the shadow cast by Empress Guo, Zhao Zhen was unable to exert his full potential in bed.

"Don't go back to live there easily in the future."

Zhao Zhen nodded in understanding; he knew that Song Xuan was concealing his identity for him.

Even his wife did not deliberately expose herself.

Song Xuan withdrew his hand and continued fanning himself.

"Besides driving the donkey cart for exercise, Sixth Brother can also get up in the morning and go for a run to work up a sweat."

"Don't overwork yourself, go to bed early and get up early, and maybe you can rest for a while."

Zhao Zhen smiled sheepishly, indicating that he understood.

Although Cao Qingyao knew that Song Xuan was speaking from the perspective of a doctor, her ears still turned red without her realizing it.

At this point, the waiter brought the dishes directly to the table and recited the names of the dishes to Song Xuan and the others in front of everyone.

This was a special menu created for top scorers at the time, and many people liked to order the same dishes.

I hope Scholar Song will like this; just call him if you need anything.

Song Xuan thanked him.

This made the waiter very happy.

Master Song is indeed approachable.

After everyone left, Zhang Maoze still carefully tasted a bite of the dish first.

When outside, one must ensure the safety of the officials.

Especially things that go into the mouth.

In this day and age, it is very difficult to save someone from ingesting highly toxic food.

Even if others don't know the official's identity.

But what if there's someone who wants to target Song Zhuangyuan?

That's not impossible. Zhao Zhen did not reprimand Zhang Maoze.

Because that's what he's supposed to do.

"Twelfth Brother, what are your plans to do about the Fanlou incident?"

"I can't handle it."

Song Xuan picked up Sun Yang's signature dish:

"The main problem is that some people are hoping that Fanlou will go out of business so they can take a cut of its customers."

"When it will stop is not something I can stop."

Zhang Fangping nodded in understanding.

The matter has escalated to this point, and it's all Fanlou's own doing.

Cao Qingyao stared at the person tasting the dishes, who was probably a eunuch.

"Will Fanlou close down?"

Zhao Zhen was somewhat worried.

From his perspective, he was unwilling to see the world-famous Fanlou restaurant go out of business.

"Probably not. Who knows how far this business war will go?"

Song Xuan pointed out the window:
"There are 72 main stores in Tokyo City, but only a small number of people can afford to eat at the main stores. If you eat one more bite, I will eat one less bite."

"Now that Fanlou is in trouble, its competitors are naturally delighted and will continue to push the issue into discussion."

"If we were to publicize something further, such as me bringing people to Sun Yang Zheng Dian for a meal while the other officials go to Ban Lou, Liu Lou, or Ba Xian Lou for a meal, etc."

"Fewer people are going to Fanlou, so it will naturally be affected. We'll see if Fanlou has any ways to turn the tide."

Zhao Zhen nodded.

As long as Fanlou doesn't go out of business, that's fine.

The daily wine tax paid by Fanlou was something that no other legitimate restaurant could match.

This matter concerns the collection of taxes by the imperial court.

There's no need to escalate things to that extent; Twelfth Brother can just teach Fanlou a lesson.

"Is that shopkeeper brainless?"

Emperor Zhao Zhen picked up some food, expressing his incomprehension:
"Fanlou's profits in a single day are enough to pay the remaining taxes. How could you be so foolish?"

"It's probably because of me."

Song Xuan directly took the blame:
"The owner behind Fanlou may dislike me and is deliberately trying to disgust me."

Upon hearing this, Zhao Zhen immediately raised his eyebrows.

It's really hard to understand why they're so stingy with such a small amount of money.

This also caused Fanlou to lose face.

Zhao Zhen was biting into the mutton from Sun Yang's restaurant; he quite enjoyed it.

"Twelfth Brother, do you know who the owner behind Fanlou is?"

"I don't know."

Song Xuan wouldn't reveal his suspicions; he'd let Zhao Zhen investigate on his own.

After you've finished investigating, see what he thinks.

You can give him a push to speed things up in some areas, but it's more impressive to let him discover things on his own.

Life experiences teach us, and that will never be outdated.

Zhao Zhen nodded.

He planned to have the Imperial City Guard investigate secretly.

His first guess was the Chen brothers, but then he realized that was impossible.

The Chen brothers did not have the resources to control Fanlou.

The only other person who had a grudge against Twelfth Brother was Eighth Uncle's son, Zhao Yundi.

Uncle Ba has ambitions to become emperor, but Fanlou is unlikely to be under his control.

After all, he couldn't get past his father, the emperor.

Therefore, Zhao Zhen couldn't figure out who the mastermind behind Fanlou was and why he would actively oppose Song Xuan.

At the time, Twelfth Brother guessed that he was referring to Madam Lin, but this was just a guess.

It's not entirely true.

Ultimately, we must wait for news from the investigation.

Zhao Zhen had a fair opinion of Lady Lin; he didn't dislike her.

Besides serving Empress Liu, Lady Lin would also quietly comfort the young Emperor Zhao Zhen after he was scolded by her.

"The weather is so hot these days, I wonder when it will rain heavily?"

Zhao Zhen was somewhat worried. In fact, he was currently in a state where he wanted to play but couldn't let go, and he wanted to handle government affairs but didn't have the opportunity.

"Who knows? Anyway, don't try to pray for rain. If it rains heavily, it will be your fault."

Song Xuan ate the fresh fruit as dessert.

Zhao Zhen originally intended to do it personally, but after being lectured by Song Xuan, he understood the ins and outs of the matter.

An emperor can't always pray for rain, whether he has something to do or not.

Moreover, those gods were not true gods.

"Ah."

Zhao Zhen responded, then remembered the matter of the prisoners clearing the ditch:
"Twelfth Brother, isn't there a risk in using prisoners? What if they escape? You'll be the one in trouble."

"So what if I run away? It doesn't matter."

Song Xuan spat out the fruit pit from his mouth:
"What I want is for them to work. To put it another way, I've prepared twelve escape slots. If it doesn't exceed one-tenth, the work can continue."

Even after hearing Song Xuan's explanation, Zhao Zhen still didn't understand.

Why would they release such a quota for a criminal they finally managed to catch?
"I just treat them as a way to make use of waste. If it succeeds, it succeeds; if it fails, it doesn't matter."

Song Xuan wiped his hands:

“Otherwise, keeping them in jail would be a waste of food. It would be better to educate them through labor and alleviate the government’s labor shortage.”

"It's not like the government is always conscripting laborers, which would disrupt the people's production. It would be a win-win situation, no different from using local militia to repair bridges and roads."

Zhao Zhen then began to understand Song Xuan's actions.

We shouldn't be overly cautious just because we're afraid of breaking some bottles and jars.

If you always hesitate and look before you act, what kind of achievements can you possibly make?
Zhao Zhen was willing to have more contact with Song Xuan.

Aside from their childhood friendship, he could learn a lot of unusual ways of thinking from Song Xuan.

imitate!

As a child, Zhao Zhen had no opportunity to imitate others, so he could only imitate the behavior of the "Confucian scholars" around him.

Therefore, his Confucian education was far superior to that of ordinary people.

However, this mindset of "a good Confucian scholar" was immediately shattered by Song Xuan.

This gave Zhao Zhen more to think about.

The Confucian education he received was not the truth, but merely a means of controlling people, and he himself, as emperor, could not be controlled by Confucianism.

None of those great Confucian scholars had ever told Zhao Zhen such a principle.

As for Empress Liu, she would not share any governing insights with Emperor Zhao Zhen either.

Zhao Zhen longed to learn the art of being an emperor.

But no one taught him.

This made Zhao Zhen always lack confidence when imitating how to handle government affairs.

But when he discovered that Song Xuan understood the "art of emperors," that was wonderful.

Now that we've left the palace and stayed away from that troublesome place, it was Song Xuan's idea.

He also instructed himself to study Han Feizi, so that if he didn't understand something, he could save it up and ask Jia Changchao.

"In that case, wouldn't it be difficult for prisoners in various jails to replicate Twelfth Brother's methods?"

Song Xuan was very pleased with Zhao Zhen's independent thinking.

“That’s true.” Song Xuan stood up and walked to the window.

"Not all officials are like me, good at making money, or even willing to spend it freely."

"So the court issued a new policy, even if the initial idea was to benefit the people."

"However, in the actual implementation process, those officials, whether intentionally or unintentionally, will distort the policies of the court."

"Ultimately, when a policy becomes harmful to the people, the blame will fall on the imperial court."

Zhao Zhen also stood up, walked to the window, and looked down at the wandering people.

He wanted to refute Song Xuan's words, but he had no examples to give.

Although Zhao Zhen had no contact with the local officials in the various prefectures, all the people in the central government came from the grassroots level.

These prime ministers also had their own ulterior motives in handling government affairs.

Not to mention the rest of the people.

Even in Tokyo, the 12th brother would be targeted when collecting taxes.

Where are the others?

Zhao Zhen believed that Song Xuan was the youngest person in the history of the Song Dynasty to achieve the highest honors in all three categories of imperial examinations, and that his poetry was unparalleled. In addition, his father-in-law was the number one military officer in the Song Dynasty.

Despite this background, some people still deliberately tripped him up.

Wouldn't those scholars who are not as capable or have as strong a background as him face even more difficulties in their local areas?

Zhao Zhen sighed softly, unsure of how to resolve the situation.
"By the way, Sixth Brother, if you have nothing to do tomorrow, come to the county office. You can experience what it's like to be a county magistrate for a day."

Song Xuan suggested again that since Zhao Zhen had no opportunity to practice handling government affairs.

However, the county government also has many official duties that require Song Xuan's decision.

As the emperor of the Song Dynasty, Zhao Zhen is currently unable to handle the affairs of the entire country, but he is perfectly capable of handling the affairs of the capital and surrounding counties.

How can one sweep the world if one cannot even sweep one's own room?

Zhao Zhen shook off his earlier dejection and said that as long as the successful candidates in the imperial examinations from various regions had the ability, they would naturally be able to show their talents and be given important positions in the future.

Now that my twelfth brother is letting me practice as a county magistrate, there's absolutely no problem with that!
"Okay, when Twelfth Brother mentioned this that day, I really wanted it, but I thought he was joking."

"Hahaha."

Song Xuan waved his hand:
"What are you joking about? I'm serious. Sixth Brother has been in contact with many veteran officials in the county government for years, and he knows that officials don't always speak their minds."

"These people's acting skills and scheming are in no way inferior to those of the prime ministers in the central government, and their dirty thoughts are even less serious."

Zhao Zhen became even more interested upon hearing this.

If there's no challenge involved, he really doesn't want to put in much effort.

Since Song Xuan has said so, I absolutely cannot let him underestimate me.

Having observed politics for so many years, although he hadn't received careful instruction from the Empress Dowager, he was still someone who had seen pigs run. How could he not have some cunning and skill?
Zhang Fangping picked at his ear; he was certain that the official had been sold out by his twelfth brother and was even counting the money for him.

In such hot weather, Twelfth Brother certainly doesn't want to work.

Now that an opportunity has presented itself, how could one not keep an ambitious official busy?
While others might think Song Xuan has gone mad, Zhang Fangping was not surprised by Song Xuan's actions.

He did not treat the government as a government official, nor did he treat the government as a puppet.

After all, puppets have no opportunity to handle government affairs or accumulate their own experience.

Governing a big country is like cooking a small fish.

If a county can be cured, and one gains experience in governance, then when faced with a larger prefecture in the future, one will not be caught off guard.

Previously, Zhao Zhen could never have imagined such an indirect method.

After discussing it, the two went their separate ways to avoid Song Xiang suddenly coming to check on them and the Empress Dowager finding out.

After returning to Yuqing Palace, Zhao Zhen first went to see his younger sister, who was still ill.

As for praying for rain, he directly ordered the Taoist priests of Yuqing Palace to stop, lest they bring heavy rain and flood the capital city of Tokyo.

This reason made the Taoist priest hesitant to refute it.

To be frank, no one really knows the answer to praying for rain.

No one could guarantee that they could please the officials and obtain timely rain.

They all know that in such matters, it's up to fate to make the decision.

In particular, many monks and Taoist priests who worship gods, how many of them believe that the gods actually exist?

Even those highly accomplished monks or enlightened beings who stand at the highest levels would not believe in the existence of gods and Buddhas.

In the end, the Tao they cultivate and the Buddha they seek are all projections of their own inner selves.

Zhao Zhen sat in the main hall, looking at the statue. He just felt that the hall was unusually cool, so there was no need to waste ice.

Zhao Zhen didn't have to wait long before Gao Zunfu brought him the news.

The biggest master behind Fanlou was Madam Lin, who served the Empress Dowager.

Upon hearing the report from the Imperial City Guard, Zhao Zhen looked at Gao Zunfu and asked, "Is the information accurate?"

"Your Majesty, that's absolutely right."

Gao Zunfu quickly patted his chest and assured the emperor that he would never dare to deceive him.

However, Fanlou was ostensibly affiliated with Zhang Qi and Liu Congde, which was a cover for their true purpose.

"So it really was her!"

Zhao Zhen angrily punched the seat cushion.

She secretly sabotaged Twelfth Brother's plans. Could the First Madam be behind it?

Or perhaps Madam Lin is using someone else's power to secretly cause trouble.

Gao Zunfu bowed, but didn't say much.

"Have someone keep an eye on her every move."

"Huh?" Gao Zunfu answered honestly:

"Your Majesty, this is quite difficult. The Empress Dowager has many spies around her, and we simply cannot infiltrate her."

Zhao Zhen thought for a moment and then settled for second best:
"Are you confident in arranging for someone to monitor Madam Lin's family?"

"Your Majesty, this is no problem; it's one of the strengths of our Imperial City Guard."

Gao Zunfu reiterated his assurances.

"Then you should observe when the people from Fanlou go to their house, and it would be best to know what they talk about, so that I can make a judgment."

"Understood." Gao Zunfu bowed and said, "I will arrange for someone to do this right away."

Gao Zunfu certainly understood why the Emperor had suddenly become interested in Madam Lin.

It startled him; he thought it was a preparatory step to strip away the Empress's allies.

The result was that Fanlou was caught up in a scandal because it hadn't paid its taxes properly and was being pursued by the top scholar Song.

"It turns out that the Emperor is also very curious about these things."

Gao Zunfu straightened up and immediately went to instruct people to prepare for the work.

This is a great job.

After everyone had left, Zhao Zhen couldn't resist lighting incense and making offerings to the Three Pure Ones.

In his position, there are many things he has no control over.

"When will I regain my freedom?"

Zhao Zhen gazed at the statues of the Three Pure Ones and slowly uttered the question that had been on his mind.

……

At Song Xuan's home.

The couple were playing Gomoku (Five in a Row) to express their feelings.

This thing is easy to use and also exercises your brain.

But it's much simpler than Go.

Cao Qing was having a great time playing with it.

Two knocks on the door.

The old servant called out from outside, "Young master, Zhang Liyi, the son of the Privy Councilor, has come to pay his respects. Shall we see him?"

Song Xuan put down the black piece he was holding, and then placed another one on the board: "You lost."

"You're shaking me! If Uncle Cao hadn't called you, how come I didn't see this step?"

"Hey hey hey."

Song Xuan pinched Cao Qingyao's little face: "Still dare to talk back? Wait until I get back and deal with you."

Cao Qingyao rolled her eyes, then leaned against the armchair and watched Song Xuanta walk away in his wooden clogs.

Song Xuan, holding a fan in his hand and wearing a vest and shorts sewn by his maid, went to meet the guest.

Zhang Liyi came reluctantly.

He felt he couldn't learn anything from Song Xuan.

Even if someone is the top scholar, I'm just not cut out for studying.

Therefore, he practiced martial arts in order to achieve success in his future career.

In addition, with his father serving as the Privy Councilor, it would take at least several years for him to be promoted.

Zhang Li was extremely surprised to see Song Xuan dressed like that.

Because he had also read Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

Isn't this just like the scene where Cao Cao greeted Xu You with his shoes on backwards?

Zhang Liyi didn't understand.

He was no match for Xu You, and Song Xuan was no Cao Cao.

Why did he do that?
No wonder Zhang Liyi overthought things, because Song Xuan came out wearing a vest and shorts, which was no different from coming out naked.

"So it's Brother Zhang San. Sorry to keep you waiting."

Seeing that Song Xuan was being so accommodating, Zhang Li couldn't put on airs and said, "I'm sorry to bother you."

“Your father specifically instructed me at the banquet that he wanted to send Brother Zhang to my side to gain some experience.”

Song Xuan fanned himself with a fan: "Kaifeng County is in dire need of manpower right now. Things are complicated, and we need talents like Brother Zhang San."

Hearing Song Xuan's praise, Zhang Liyi still showed a proud look on his face.

"I wonder what Brother Zhang is good at?"

"I have been practicing martial arts all day long, hoping to win fame and fortune and serve the government."

"Okay!"

Song Xuan quickly clapped his hands and asked, "I wonder what Brother Zhang is best at?"

"Horseback archery".

"My horse is sick and no one else can ride it. How about Brother Zhang demonstrates his archery skills so I can have a better idea of ​​what to do?"

Zhang Liyi felt there was absolutely no problem.

Anyway, archery and horsemanship are not really applicable in Song Xuan's household.

It's not as spacious as his house, but it's perfectly adequate for horse racing.

So Song Xuan gave a signal and had someone place the target thirty paces away, and then handed Zhang Li a bow and arrow.

“Brother Zhang, the conditions are simple. It’s about thirty paces from the hall to the door. Why don’t you try shooting?”

Zhang Li felt the bow was somewhat heavy as soon as he picked it up.

He had never drawn a bow and arrow that weighed so much before. He tried it, but couldn't release it.

“Scholar Song, I usually draw bows that can only draw two stones at a time; this bow is not suitable for me.”

Because the Song Dynasty had crossbows, there was no need to use bows and arrows at long distances. Archers in the army were qualified as long as their skill level was above 1 shi (a unit of weight).

"This is the only San Shi sword I have at home."

Hearing Song Xuan's words, Zhang Liyi looked at Song Xuan with surprise:

"Is it something that the top scholar Song usually played with?"

"Yes, it was given to me by my father-in-law."

Song Xuan didn't hide anything; he had no difficulty drawing the three-stone bow at all, and it was quite easy for him.

Zhang Li pointed to the target thirty paces away:

"Did the top scholar practice like this on a regular basis?"

"I usually go to the backyard, which is about fifty steps away, but it's too hot these days, so I don't want to go out."

Song Xuan gestured with the bow and arrow: "But I don't usually like shooting at static targets."

Zhang Liyi felt that Song Xuan was exaggerating a bit. How could a top scholar in the civil service exam have the skills of a top martial arts exam winner?

(End of this chapter)