A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 416 Northwest Layout
Zhong Shiheng naturally believed Song Xuan's words.

He also believed that the Tangut people of Western Xia had gained confidence after winning a series of battles.

Therefore, after completing the occupation of the Uyghur territory, the desire to become emperor would begin to stir within him.

Moreover, the Tanguts were inherently ambitious and treacherous; they began to betray the Tang dynasty after cooperating with Zhu Wen.

“Okay, let’s make arrangements in advance. You may not have much reputation or receive much help in the early stages, but with Zhong Shiheng firmly in place, you will definitely play a significant role in the future.”

Hearing the promises Song Xuan made, Zhong Shiheng was quite excited. He had heard from his younger brother that Song Xuan was good at planning ahead.

This plan is like Song Xuan clearing silt in Kaifeng County in advance; there will eventually be heavy rain, and then the results will be tested.

"Scholar Song, if I were to go to the Northwest, what should I do?"

Song Xuan didn't hide anything:

"I learned some news about the Northwest from Zhe Jixuan, who was dismissed from his post, and Liu Kang, the prefect of Zhenrong Army."

“Go to the old Kuanzhou, two hundred li northeast of Yanzhou, where there are abandoned fortifications.”

“You can build a city around there or on the original site to block the advance of the Western Xia and trap their offensive there.”

"On the right, we can stabilize the situation in Yan'an; on the left, we can ensure the smooth arrival of millet from Hedong; and to the north, we can reclaim the old territories of Yinzhou and Xiazhou."

"This is the first requirement the Emperor has for you. First, you should lead our people to settle down there, find water sources, gather people to farm in the surrounding area, and use it as a logistical base for gradually encroaching on Western Xia."

Zhong Shiheng understood Song Xuan's assigned task:

"Scholar Song, may I go and look at the map?"

"Once your appointment is finalized, I'll take you to the Privy Council. All I have here is a map of Tokyo."

"it is good."

Song Xuan then extended his finger:
"Although the imperial court is wary of the Western Xia, the border is too long and the troops are certainly insufficient to defend it. Therefore, you will need to recruit soldiers and merchants yourself. I will cooperate with you."

"Only by engaging in commerce can you ensure that there is no shortage of resources there. Once you have made money, you can buy seeds and other things, and once you have enough food..."

"I will find a way to send you some strong liquor so you can earn money from it and promote your reputation in the early stages. This liquor can be used to keep warm in winter and stabilize morale."

"After your harvest, I will teach you the method so you can brew it yourself and avoid transportation costs."

"Strong liquor?" Zhong Shiheng was also a heavy drinker:

"Scholar Song, how strong is this wine?"

"At first, drinking it feels like drinking knives, and then your whole body will feel hot."

"what?"

Zhong Shiheng is also a seasoned drinker.

But he had never tasted wine like the one Song Xuan described.

Could it be imperial wine?

"Actually, the liquor is spirits."

Distilled liquor is a type of spirit.

However, many people did not like to drink it, except for some nobles in the Western Han Dynasty who sought excitement.

I enjoy the dizzy, almost divine feeling after drinking some distilled spirits.

For example, a wine distillation vessel was found in the tomb of the Marquis of Haihun, and it was successfully replicated.

During the Song Dynasty, various fruit wines, yellow wines, and rice wines were popular, with alcohol content ranging from a few degrees to around twenty degrees.

The eighteen bowls of wine that Wu Song drank were brewed by farmers.

"Liquor?" Zhong Shiheng raised an eyebrow. "I've never heard of it!"

"As the Tang people said, when it comes to wine, there is Jiannan Shaochun. In the Tang Dynasty, 'chun' meant wine."

"A Tang dynasty poem says: 'Since arriving in Chengdu, I've been enjoying the hot liquor, and I no longer think of going back to Chang'an.'"

"It just doesn't taste good."

Although Zhong Shiheng had also studied, he was not as formally trained as Song Xuan, so he nodded repeatedly, agreeing with what he said.

If it tasted good, I should have tried it long ago.

Things popular in the Tang Dynasty may not be popular in the Song Dynasty.

Song Xuan added another reminder:
"This wine should not be drunk for a long time, as it can easily kill people."

"So that's it."

Zhong Shiheng kept it in mind.

No wonder he had never heard of it. If you drink it in a cold place and it warms you up, it must be a good thing. It's just that it was used in the wrong place.

Song Xuan continued explaining his plan to Zhong Shiheng:

"I think if you drink a couple of ounces of this wine with those chiefs in the winter, they would be very willing to be your friend."

"Make friends with them?"

Zhong Shiheng was actually a nationalist and didn't really care about the barbarians.

"Yes, we are dealing with the Dangxiang people. These Qiang people no longer have much power. They will either submit to us or submit to the Dangxiang people."

"It is best for our Great Song Dynasty to make as many friends as possible. I have already instructed Zhe Jixuan to engage in business and communicate more with the Dangxiang, Uyghur, and Tibetan people of Western Xia to obtain information."

Song Xuan smiled and said, "So you also need to maintain good relations with the surrounding Qiang chieftains and make them work for our Great Song. If there is any trouble in Western Xia, they can also secretly inform us."

"After all, you're in a solitary position, so having more friends means having more options."

"understood."

Zhong Shiheng understood his situation: he was a wedge, a prelude to future military action between the Song Dynasty and the Western Xia.

Moreover, Song Xuan has already planned out what he needs to do in the future, which saves him a lot of trouble.

“Scholar Song, I have another question.”

"You said."

Song Xuan was happy to answer Zhong Shiheng's questions and believed he could do a good job.

"The Tanguts are skilled in archery and horsemanship. Even if our Great Song Dynasty defends the city, I'm afraid we still won't be able to reach them."

Zhong Shiheng also knew about ballistae:

"Even if we wanted to replicate the incident of shooting the Liao commander in Chanzhou, the ballista would require a huge number of people and take a long time. I'm afraid they would rush in after only a couple of shots."

Song Xuan snapped his fingers: "Come with me."

Zhong Shiheng followed them to the backyard.

Song Xuan gestured to Guo En to place the target at the distant gate of the courtyard.

Zhong Shicai squatted outside, thinking it was over.

Could it be that the top scholar Song wants to test my elder brother's archery skills?

He glanced at it and estimated:
"It's about sixty paces away. My older brother can still hit the target, but it's a bit difficult for him to hit the bullseye. But it's enough."

"Hmm?" Liu Sui asked, "Why is it Scholar Song who's shooting?"

"Haha, perhaps Scholar Song wanted to set an example for my brother. Scholar Song still underestimates me."

Whoosh.

The arrow flew like a shooting star.

Song Xuan's arrow hit the bullseye immediately.

"elder brother?"

Zhong Shicai hadn't even uttered the last word.

Song Xuan shot the arrow, and it hit the bullseye.

It can be said that Guo En had already set up the target before he left the area, and the arrow hit the target.

"Ah, this?"

Liu Sui's jaw almost dropped to the ground.

Zhong Shiheng saw it very clearly. He looked at the target in the distance, and then at Song Xuan, who was calm and collected.

It seemed like just a trivial matter.

His skills are impressive.

Is this really what a top scholar should be like?

"Can you see it clearly?"

“Reporting to Scholar Song, I see clearly now.”

Zhong Shiheng answered honestly.

Song Xuan handed him the bow and arrow:

"So of course we'll use foot archers to meet them. Horse archers don't have the same range as foot archers, so you can train a whole foot archer squad."

Zhong Shiheng took the bow and arrow, decisively refusing to test his accuracy:

"But Scholar Song, the cost of maintaining an archer in the Northwest is quite high, and we're afraid we can't afford it."

"Money can't solve too many problems sometimes."

Song Xuan stood with his hands behind his back, pointing at the target and saying:
"This requires you, Prefect, to guide the people of the whole city to practice archery spontaneously, thus hiding soldiers among the people."

"I told them to practice archery on their own?"

Zhong Shiheng was in a dilemma.

Isn't this the style of a respectable young man from the Tang Dynasty?
The imperial court is about to go to war, so they prepare their own horses and weapons and set off to serve the court.

This approach wouldn't work in the mid-to-late Tang Dynasty, let alone in the Song Dynasty!

"Scholar Song has really given me a difficult problem."

"If I were to think of and do everything myself, and you think you could climb the ladder just by building a city, you'd have no chance."

After Song Xuan pulled the cake back a little, Zhong Shiheng immediately understood and promised to complete the task assigned by the top scholar Song.

Judging from Song Xuan's skills, Zhong Shiheng thought that he might also be going to manage the Northwest in the future.

"I won't have high expectations for your men, such as becoming brave warriors who dare to fight outside the city. However, if they can't shoot arrows from the city wall as accurately as I can, then hitting the target is fine."

Zhong Shiheng cupped his hands and said, "Thank you for the reminder, Scholar Song. I will do everything I can to get them to practice archery."

"Don't tell anyone about what happened today except you and me, not even your brother."

"it is good."

Seeing that Zhong Shiheng responded, Song Xuan then extended his hand.

The two sides swore an oath by high-fiving.

Zhong Shiheng finally understood his future direction.

The Northwest had been closed to foreign trade for a long time, and the soldiers were complacent and unaware of the methods of warfare.

It is advisable to select capable generals, train elite troops, eliminate redundant and lazy soldiers, fill granaries, and increase financial resources to prepare for defense.

The imperial court might launch another five-pronged attack on Western Xia in the future.

That is your opportunity.

They didn't linger and left immediately.

"Brother, how did Scholar Song, who's been so secretive, come up with this plan for you?"

Liu Sui also bid farewell and went home. At this time, it was just the two of them walking on the road, preparing to go to the post station to make do.

"I can't say it out loud, but in short, the plan is very ambitious and has a bright future."

Zhong Shiheng smiled:

"For me, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Scholar Song is truly thoughtful."

Zhong Shicai's eyelids twitched; it's no wonder he overthought things.

I have a feeling that there's some huge conspiracy involved. Can our old Zhong family afford to take responsibility for this?
"I never expected that the top scholar Song was such a good archer."

"I was also taken aback; it was too arbitrary."

Zhong Shiheng felt this most strongly: "In this respect, I am not as good as him."

"Just this much?"

Zhong Shicai jokingly said, "I ran around for you, worrying and fearing, and paved the way for Song Zhuangyuan."

And then you two, all mysterious, threw me out.

"Hey."

Zhong Shiheng stopped and patted his younger brother on the shoulder:

“Scholar Song trusts me and wants to help me out, which is why he is so open and honest with me. I cannot let him down.”

"In the future, it's enough if only one person in our family suffers. This matter is too dangerous. My family can't put all our eggs in one basket."

Zhong Shiheng felt that this was a rare opportunity. If it were an ordinary person, they wouldn't be as bold as Song Xuan in recommending someone like him to take on a major role outside.

However, rather than wasting his life, Zhong Shiheng was willing from the bottom of his heart to venture out to the frontier.

Knowing his brother's character, Chung Sai-jae nodded and didn't press the matter further.

Song Xuan beckoned Guo En over.

"My lord."

"We'll be going to school together tomorrow, so put this bow away for now. You can take it out and practice during your break."

Guo En and others were indeed mediocre archers, but they excelled in close combat, making them suitable for battlefield fighting.

"I will do as you say, sir."

"Alright, when Class 1 opens tomorrow, everyone will be in the introductory stage, so you will be the class monitor to manage this group and try to prevent any bullying of classmates."

"Me, managing them?"

Guo En's pupils contracted slightly; he hadn't expected the high-ranking official to value him so much.

“That’s right. You’re not going to take the imperial examination to become a Jinshi, but to join the Imperial Guard. Once you’re literate and capable, you’ll definitely get promoted. Once you’re promoted, you can manage so many people under your command, just like I do.”

“I was a leader of the kids back then, so becoming a leader of the kids and learning to manage them is much better than learning it on the spot in the military.”

Upon hearing that Song Xuan was also a leader of children, Guo En was immediately excited:
"Don't worry, sir, I will definitely manage Class One well."

"Ah."

Song Xuan handed the hard bow to Guo En, keeping it for practice.

Zhao Zhen waited until they left before coming out.

"Does Twelfth Brother think Zhong Shiheng is capable of shouldering this heavy responsibility?"

It wasn't that Zhao Zhen had any doubts, but rather that Zhong Shiheng was a civil official who had only shown integrity but hadn't demonstrated any real ability in office.

This was also what Zhao Zhen was worried about.

Given the complex environment of the Northwest, it's unlikely that just anyone could establish a foothold there.

"Let's just throw it over there and see. Anyway, the Liao emperor isn't dead yet, and the Western Xia Tanguts won't rush to declare themselves emperors. It'll give us time to develop."

Song Xuan didn't explain much: "If they don't do a good job, we'll just replace them."

Zhao Zhen nodded.

Presumably, the task of building the city itself doesn't require much technical skill, and it only requires his coordination in the drama.

The only other things Twelfth Brother mentioned were hiding soldiers among the people, organizing farming, and guarding against the Tanguts causing trouble.

Not an easy task.

Zhao Zhen stopped worrying and started thinking about whether he should intervene when the Empress Dowager received the Liao envoy.
Tokyo is not a very big city, but it is not small either.

The news that the magistrate of Xiangfu County had been swiftly arrested eventually spread like wildfire.

The main reason was that Chen Gu was jealous of talent and ability, so he impeached Song Xuan.

If it's because Song Xuan didn't restrict the rise in grain prices, and people couldn't see through his schemes, then impeachment would be justifiable.

However, if you impeach Song Xuan because he did a good job, then that would be Chen Gu's problem.

In fact, many officials could understand Chen Gu's actions, but they were resentful, which is why they did such a foolish thing.

What surprised them most was that Liu E's actions towards Chen Gu were completely unconventional in order to protect Song Xuan.

He was impeached yesterday and demoted today, confirming the rumors that he was a confidant of the Empress Dowager.

Experienced officials have all realized that Song Xuan has now replaced the Empress Dowager's in-laws in terms of social standing.

No one understood why Song Xuan was able to replace him.

However, the fact that Song Xiang, the top scholar who had achieved the highest honors in the previous three examinations, and Song Xuan, the top scholar who had achieved the highest honors in the current examinations, jointly governed the capital city of Tokyo suddenly made their power dynamics clear.

It wasn't just these officials who were talking about it; the general public was also very gossipy.

Yelü Shucheng was looking at some medical books in the bookstore, trying to write them down.

Yelü Zongfu wanted to buy it and, while he was at it, also search for a good remedy for diabetes in the pharmacies of Tokyo.

Who wouldn't want to please the emperor?

So when they heard everyone talking about how Song Xuan had become the Empress's confidant, they were all quite surprised.

"Is this true?"

Seeing the Khitan man's question, the bookstore owner smiled and said, "If it were fake, would it be our place to discuss it?"

There used to be a rumor that Song Xuan was the eldest daughter-in-law's child who had been separated from her family, but not many people believed this rumor.

But now, Chen Gu is the brother-in-law of Prime Minister Lü Yijian, and he has been dealt with decisively.

That would provide strong evidence to prove that the rumor is true.

Yelü Zongfu's expression was somewhat angry; he was rather upset.

In the Liao Dynasty, the theory of bloodline was extremely important.

I thought Song Xuan got into university through his own merit, but it turns out he also has this bloodline, which makes him even more repulsive.

This is precisely what Yelü Zongfu envies most; otherwise, he wouldn't have actively adopted a barbarian identity and wholeheartedly abandoned any Han Chinese traits he might have had.

Yelü Shucheng simply paid for the medical book; he didn't believe the story was true.

"I never imagined he had such a background."

Xiao Pidi also found it unbelievable.

"The story has spread like wildfire, but to me it doesn't seem true."

The two men looked at Yelü Shucheng and handed the items directly to the slaves behind them.

"Why?"

"Based on my understanding of Song Xuan, even if he really had such a background, he wouldn't bring it up; that would be an insult to him."

Yelü Shucheng's confident words puzzled both of them, who always valued lineage above all else.

This is the closest relationship bestowed upon us by God, yet we don't take it for our own use, instead we pretend to be high and mighty.

What's the point?

"This is the Song Dynasty, not the Liao Dynasty. The two countries have very different systems."

Yelü Shucheng added another sentence.

In short, he was in a very good mood.

Yelü the monk has already sent messengers to deliver the message without delay. They are raising gold and silver and will arrive in Tokyo in a few days.

"What's the difference?"

Xiao Pidi snorted: "Song Xuan's achievements today are all because he was born with good looks."

“The imperial family members of the Song Dynasty aren’t allowed to participate in politics like you and I do. At most, they can only hold a title; they can’t even leave the capital city of Bianjing.” Yelü Shucheng pointed at Yelü Zongfu: “Don’t you think so?”

“Yes.” Yelü Zongfu readily admitted, “But Song Xuan is a relative of the empress, and the Song Dynasty values ​​and employs relatives of the empress.”

"hehe."

Yelü Shucheng waved his hand: "I can't connect with you guys. I'm going to take a look around the pharmacy. I have to attend a celebration tomorrow."

He took his slaves and left.

"He can't argue with us," Xiao Pidi chuckled.
"I really thought that people in the Song Dynasty relied on their own abilities to pass the imperial examinations, but it turns out that connections were also important."

Regarding the imperial examination system, Yelü Zongfu felt that Xiao Pidi was being too arbitrary.

Even with connections, it was very difficult to cheat in the imperial examinations during the Song Dynasty.

However, he wouldn't argue with Xiao Pi-di, as long as everyone's opinions were the same.

Song Xuan's achievements were entirely due to his status as the eldest daughter-in-law's long-lost son, and certainly not due to his own abilities.

In comparison, our Great Liao Dynasty still wins.

After learning about the situation in Xiangfu County, Song Xiang breathed a sigh of relief.

Chen Gu's philosophy of governing by non-action did not cause too much harm to Xiangfu County.

Now that I have accepted the position, I still need some support to carry out my work better.

Song Xiang decided to first learn from Song Xuan, and then ask the Empress Dowager for some money—not much, just one or two thousand strings of cash would be enough.

In this way, he can catch up with Song Xuan more quickly.

Song Xuan lay on a recliner to rest, accompanying Zhao Zhen as he handled some miscellaneous tasks.

We will review the entire process of the "Slacking Off" contest and strive to attract more participants in the second one.

Zhao Zhen was certain he could make a fortune from the auction, but it was ultimately not a long-term solution.

"My lord, your cousin Song Xiang pays his respects."

Upon hearing Qi Lecheng's report, Song Xuan sat up abruptly from his recliner:
"My cousin?"

Zhao Zhen looked at Song Xuan: "He really is your cousin!"

"Please invite my cousin in."

Song Xuan straightened his official robes. Since the meeting was for personal reasons, Song Xuan shouldn't be too formal.

Their families are there, and besides, the two of them don't have any conflicts.

Song Xuan wouldn't turn people who come to him into hostile forces; there's no need for that.

"Cousin, this is the first time you've come to see me."

Hearing Song Xuan's words, Song Xiang just smiled, and then he saw the Emperor sitting there handling the official business that Song Xuan should have been dealing with.

Song Xiang simply bowed without making a sound, lest he disturb the official in his white dragon robe.

"Twelfth Brother, I've come to ask you something."

As usual, Song Xuan poured tea for Song Xiang: "It's not really asking for advice, Fourth Cousin, just tell me what it is."

"I know you know that I have taken over from Chen Gu as the magistrate of Xiangfu County."

Song Xiang didn't hesitate either:
"I've come here today to ask for your help. I want the yamen runners from Kaifeng County to stand guard in Xiangfu County for a few days to deter those petty scoundrels."

"This is simple."

Before Song Xiang could even express his gratitude, he heard someone say, "Fourth cousin, what kind of effect do you want?"

"What do you mean?"

"I always use money to get people to do things for me."

Song Xuan stretched out his hand and gestured:
"They all need to support their families, especially since many scoundrels from Dongjing City have fled to Xiangfu County."

"If I send them, accidents are bound to happen, which is something neither you nor I want to see."

“You and I are both scholars, and we can sit high in the county government office and command them, but they are also human beings, and they also need to support their families.”

“When I, Song Shier, led the team to wipe out Wuyou Cave, more than ten people were killed or wounded, but I have been supporting their families.”

"You and I both know that neither of us can stay in this position of county magistrate for long. Although we may follow the old ways, who knows what will happen in the future?"

"So during my term, I tried my best to help them earn more money, so they would work harder for me. Fourth cousin, do you understand what I mean?"

Even if Liu E orchestrated Song Xiang's success in becoming the top scholar, it still shows she was clever.

"Does Twelve Lang mean that Xiangfu County hired them to work as prostitutes?"

Song Xuan snapped his fingers:
“My fourth cousin asked me for help through a personal relationship, and I was willing to help, but he asked my men to do official business, and it was not within the jurisdiction of my Kaifeng County.”

"Even if I let them go, and they give me face, how effective will it be?"

"So, it would be better to give them some extra rewards."

"It just so happens that you're short-handed for dredging. Arresting these troublemakers will ultimately save Xiangfu County money."

"Good, good, good!" Song Xiang couldn't help but clap his hands and laugh.

"Who can outsmart you, Song Twelve!"

"Fourth cousin, what I'm doing isn't scheming. That's how it's always been in officialdom. You became the top scholar before me, so you should understand."

Song Xuan chuckled, holding his teacup.
“If that old man Chen Gu comes to me for help, he is not worthy to enter my house.”

"Too."

Song Xiang picked up his teacup and blew on it.

He understood that Song Xuan was setting the rules.

Kaifeng Prefecture consisted of two counties and fourteen surrounding counties (the capital region).

What if the other fourteen counties shamelessly come to him for support?
Song Twelve is truly a natural talent for navigating the officialdom. He gained the favor of many people in a short time, which is a skill in itself!
He's not as comfortable as a fish in water, so who is?
Since the founding of the Song Dynasty, there have been more than 30 top scholars in the imperial examinations, but only Lü Mengzheng, Wang Zeng, and Li Di have reached the position of prime minister.

As for whether the top scorers can continue to rise in the rankings, Song Xiang believes that at least Song Xuan can secure a place among them.

Compared to Song Xuan, Song Xiang believed that he was handpicked by the Empress Dowager to maintain her effective rule, a figurehead used to buy her reputation.

At least in Tokyo, no one's reputation is as good as Song Xuan's.

Song Xiang claimed he wanted to borrow the yamen runners from Kaifeng County, but in reality, he just wanted to use Song Xuan's connections to give him face.

At least let people know that the Song-Song couple is united, that we are on the same side, and that those petty people had better behave themselves, because behind me stands the powerful Song Taisui who has been entrenched in Kaifeng County!

After Song Xiang took a sip of tea:

"So, Twelfth Brother, how much money are you planning to ask for?"

"Hey, fourth cousin, talking about money is hurting our feelings."

"I'm glad you came to me for help with this."

Song Xuan waved his hands repeatedly and said:
"It mainly depends on how much money you're willing to give them. I'm not involved; I'm just here to act as a go-between."

"If you go to Fanlou to support Prefect Liu's auction another day, that will be helping me out."

"It would be best to invite several local wealthy businessmen; you know more people in this field than I do."

"it is good."

Song Xiang readily agreed.

He stole another glance at the official and found him engrossed in handling government affairs, which made him feel a little envious.

He had accompanied the emperor during his studies, but the emperor didn't pay much attention to him.

Unlike Song Xuan, who left all the work that a county magistrate should do to the emperor.

Song Xiang searched through all the historical records but couldn't find a single example of this.

What an eye-opener.

In particular, Song Xiang also took on the responsibility of recording daily life events.

He feared that if he recorded this event, future emperors would consider it a fabrication.

Although the Tang Dynasty established that the emperor could not look at the screen, even Emperor Taizong of Tang did not abide by it. By the time of the Song Dynasty, could Emperor Taizong abide by it?

Song Xiang quickly looked away:

"Twelfth Brother, when you collected taxes, did you issue a notice in advance, telling them to pay within a specified time?"

"Yes, Liu Congde has a shop in Kaifeng County. I just killed a monkey to scare the chickens, and then all these people came to pay their taxes obediently."

"As for Fanlou, which survived to the end, I simply changed its owner. It's that simple."

Is it really that simple—a scare tactic to make an example of someone?
Song Xiang felt that this word wasn't used correctly.

But he also realized that Song Xuan's approach had immediately established his authority; it was simple and effective, so who would dare to provoke him?

Prior to this, Song Xuan had already angrily rebuked high-ranking officials such as members of the imperial family, Hanlin scholars, and the prefect of Kaifeng.

Song Xiang lacked this foundation.

This method would probably be difficult to replicate in Xiangfu County.

Song Xiang pondered that he still needed to find a suitable chicken to establish his authority, rather than killing the monkey casually. He didn't have Song Xuan's shrewdness and boldness.

He still has no idea how Song Xuan managed to make Liu Congde bow down.
“I have observed the losses reported by Xiangfu County. The shops suffered considerable losses due to poor drainage caused by the heavy rain. I may not be able to collect the three years of back taxes.”

"Simple, just have them pay in installments."

Seeing that Song Xiang was really interested in doing it, Song Xuan spared no effort in giving him advice.

We see each other all the time, and since we're in charge of recording daily life, it's good to have a good relationship.

Song Xuan felt he didn't have the ability to alter the daily records, but he at least hoped that Song Xiang wouldn't be like Sima Qian, who preferred bizarre and unconventional records.

"installment?"

"Yes, I always make them pay the full amount at once. Since they are in trouble, you should be understanding and let them pay for a year first. Once you have this money in your hands, you can have funds to work with."

"You can agree on a timeframe for the subsequent payments; we can't let them become bad debts."

"If this continues, wouldn't it be unfair to those who diligently pay their taxes?"

"Once this trend spreads, it will become increasingly difficult for the Song Dynasty to collect taxes. If the court encounters any natural disasters or man-made calamities, it will be even less able to raise funds. Repairing the Yellow River will then be nothing more than empty talk and will never be realized."

Song Xiang nodded; Song Xuan's words made sense.
"I understand now. All you need to do is send people to stand guard and arrest people to establish my authority."

"Fourth cousin, when do you need it?"

Song Xuan pointed in the direction of Fanlou:

"There will be an exhibition of treasures at Fanlou tomorrow, and I need a lot of people to look after them."

"How many days?"

"It will take at least three days for the news to spread throughout the entire city of Tokyo."

"it is good."

Song Xiang nodded. He could take this opportunity to gather more information about Xiangfu County, as there was a need for chickens to be killed in the county government office.

These are all normal methods. Song Xiang believed that Song Xuan's initial act of making an example of others was also a way of rectifying internal issues.

Otherwise, how could these shrewd people who frequent the county government possibly be convinced by a newly arrived official?

"Twelfth Brother, then I won't bother you any longer."

Song Xiang stood up:

"Having suddenly taken on such a heavy burden, I still need to go to the Empress Dowager to plead for me. Even if she only gives me one or two thousand strings of cash for Xiangfu County, it will be a good start."

"Good idea."

Song Xuan also stood up to see him off, smiling as he escorted him to the door.

Song Xiang held a high-ranking official position, so his salary was enough for him and his wife in the capital city. However, he did not buy a donkey as a mount and instead walked to the palace.

He had no attendants with him.

After the person left, Song Xuan instructed Qi Lecheng to call Ban Feng to him.

"My lord, what business do you need me for?"

“Go and pick a few good people from families that are still short of money. I’ve found them a job that will earn them some extra cash for a few days, though there are risks involved.”

Ban Feng was taken aback at first, but immediately agreed:
"How many people does Your Excellency require?"

"Just find twenty people and form two teams. If there are too many, I'm afraid he won't be able to pay the bill."

"clear."

After bowing, Ban Feng went straight downstairs, not knowing where the master was going to send him to earn extra money.

After everyone left, Zhao Zhen spoke:

"Twelfth Brother, why is Song Xiang acting like he didn't see me?"

"First of all, as historians, we must uphold our integrity. With the emperor by our side, and him in charge of recording our daily activities, our words and actions must be documented."

"That's really inappropriate," Song Xuan said with a shrug.
"So we can only treat you like a block of wood."

Zhao Zhen was speechless; he had never imagined it would be this excuse.

Song Xuan believed that Song Xiang was pretending not to have seen it, and that he was also considering not reporting the matter to the Empress Dowager.

Day two.

Liu Congde officially unveiled the auction treasures at Fanlou, from royal treasures to that glass artifact, naturally attracting a large crowd eager to see the spectacle.

To avoid inadequate care and overcrowding.

Liu Congde even set up a threshold; if you wanted to see it, you had to spend ten coins and get a number to enter Fanlou for the time it takes to burn half an incense stick.

But Tokyo City has no shortage of people who want to see a good show, and even if it costs ten coins, they'll still want to broaden their horizons.

These are treasures of the Song Dynasty imperial family, they are not often seen!

After all, the fact that they're auctioning off such items for disaster relief is definitely a way of winning people's hearts.

Everyone praises the Song Dynasty imperial family for doing a good job!

Moreover, the Song emperors were not as wary of ordinary people as they were of military men; otherwise, they would not have directly dismantled the Tang Dynasty's market system and even abolished the curfew.

Standing upstairs, Liu Congde watched the people below gasp in amazement, a smile spreading across his face.

With this group of people who love to watch the excitement, these treasures will surely spread to every corner of Tokyo.

He felt that Song Xuan was wasting his talents as an official; if he had focused on business, he would have become the richest man in the Song Dynasty long ago.

However, Liu Congde did not consider at all whether Song Xuan's achievements would attract unwanted attention and be seized by force.

Just like how Fanlou wasn't originally surnamed Lin!

Many shops in Tokyo have intricate connections with various powerful figures.

An ordinary shop is not easy to expand.

While Fanlou was bustling with activity, Song Xuan, dressed in crimson robes and wearing a gold belt, stood in the main hall, closing his eyes to rest.

Although they came to collect the annual tribute, they did so in order to save face.

The Liao envoy was there to present tribute to Empress Dowager Liu E.

This is also a form of etiquette in interactions between the two parties.

Emperor Yelü Zongzhen of the Liao Dynasty deposed his birth mother, Empress Dowager Xiao Nuojin, and imprisoned her. The ministers proposed to bring back the Empress Dowager in order to obtain the gifts that the Song Dynasty gave to the Empress Dowager every year.

However, Yelü Zongzhen did not adopt his suggestion.

The resentment between the mother and son deepened, and they became increasingly wary of each other.

Even if they have to go out together for some reason, they need to be dozens of miles apart to feel safe.

When Yelü Zongzhen died, his own mother complained to her daughter-in-law, "He's dead, so what? Why are you crying?"

Zhao Zhen sat on the dragon throne, dressed in a dragon robe.

Liu E, dressed in a dragon robe, sat on a chair to the side, separated by a curtain to ensure that these people would not see her true face.

The Liao envoys could see the young emperor's face, which was now even more serious and unsmiling.

After a magnificent musical performance, Yelü Gou'er, the Liao envoy, greeted the Song Dynasty according to its etiquette.

The prime minister and other high-ranking officials stood aside.

As the deputy envoy, Song Xuan also stood beside Cao Liyong.

Cao Yongli was already tired of this kind of occasion; now he was starting to stare at the carved dragon on the pillar.

Song Xuan observed that the ceremony of giving money to the Khitans was indeed quite grand, showcasing the grandeur of the Celestial Empire in every aspect.

However, knowing the truth still makes people a little uneasy.

"No gift."

Zhao Zhen gave a perfectly standard reply.

Yelü Gou'er began by presenting his credentials, followed by some polite remarks from his deputy, Lü Demao.

On behalf of the Emperor of Liao, he extended his sincere greetings to his sister-in-law, Empress Dowager Liu E, and his nephew, Zhao Zhen, expressing his regret over the untimely death of his elder brother and wishing them both strength.

Finally, let me proclaim the military strength of the Liao Dynasty. Anyone who dares to bully the orphans and widows who are my elder brothers is disrespecting the Liao Dynasty.

The two countries were like brothers; Emperor Zhenzong was the elder brother, and the Liao emperor was recognized as such.

When his son succeeded to the throne, the two emperors became brothers again.

As Song Xuan listened to Lü Demao recount the Liao emperor's words, he whispered:

"It seems that the Liao emperor still intends to wage war."

"Stop trying to sow discord."

Cao Yongli gently tugged at his son-in-law's sleeve, signaling him to be quiet.

When our Song Dynasty envoys go to the Liao Dynasty, they will say the same thing.

In essence, it was a warning to the other side that we should abide by the Treaty of Chanyuan and live in peace, but if we broke it, I still had the strength to continue the war.

Since no actual combat is going to happen, the verbal battles are a way of testing each other and also a tacit understanding to ensure that neither side will easily take action.

"Their barbarians use vulgar language, while our Great Song Dynasty uses elegant language. It's normal that you can't accept it."

Cao Yongli then explained to his son-in-law that there was no need to argue here; if the Song Dynasty needed to provide a performance venue for the Liao Dynasty, the Liao Dynasty would reciprocate.

Song Xuan glanced at Cao Liyong:
“Father-in-law, to be honest, I didn’t see you use elegant language when receiving the Liao envoy.”

“I am a martial artist. Even if I curse his whole family, it is just my vulgarity as a martial artist, which is normal.”

“But you’re different, kid. You’re a civil official, so you should naturally learn to be more magnanimous.”

Song Xuan clicked his tongue, too lazy to listen to Lü Demao's polite words:
"Father-in-law, I'm afraid that if I were to scold them after I've magnanimously done so, these barbarians wouldn't understand. Wouldn't that be like casting a flirtatious glance at a blind man?"

"So I choose to directly curse them; it may be vulgar, but it's easy to understand!"

"Hahaha."

Cao Yongli couldn't help but laugh out loud, but then tried hard to keep his mouth shut.

On such a solemn occasion, one must not lose composure.

The conversation between the father-in-law and son-in-law also influenced the surrounding martial artists, who chuckled at Song Xuan's remarks.

The main reason was that Song Xuan's words and actions truly reflected their martial spirit, without the slightest hesitation.

Song Xuan was a top scholar who passed all three levels of the imperial examinations, yet he was corrupted by Cao Shizhong to such an extent.
Wang Zeng glared angrily at Cao Liyong.

This is utterly vulgar for such an important occasion.

Cao Li turned his head away, not even deigning to meet Wang Zeng's gaze.

Zhao Zhen kept a straight face as he listened to the Liao emperor's greeting as an elder, and he could only keep a straight face as well.

However, Zhao Zhen thought about how these Khitans hadn't even received a year's tribute this year, and had already been tricked into a trap by his twelfth brother, and would have to invest even more gold.

He tends to laugh when he's happy.

(End of this chapter)