A powerful minister of the Song Dynasty

Chapter 444 Your Majesty, no, his method is too conservative.

"That was a fight between the powerful eldest brother and the fairly strong second brother, and they both ended up unharmed."

"On the contrary, the third brother, who was watching the commotion, was caught in the crossfire and killed."

Cao Liyong and his son Cao Yuan exchanged a glance.

What is this story?
I've never heard of that before.

Song Xuan chuckled a few times:

"Father-in-law, do you think this is funny or not?"

This was the first time Cao Liyong had ever heard such an explanation.

However, upon further reflection, she realized that her son-in-law was highly learned and talented, while she herself had not even laid the foundation for the imperial examinations.

How many of these ancient stories do I actually know?
"I've never heard of this before. Let alone Coca-Cola, I still find it hard to believe."

However, Song Xuan couldn't very well use something like Jia Duo Bao as an example, so he simply said:

“Father-in-law, it’s common for the eldest and second eldest sons to fight, and it’s also common for onlookers to get caught in the crossfire.”

"Or they may be openly opposing each other, but secretly they have reached an agreement to eliminate the other forces."

"Well, that makes sense."

Cao Li nodded. He had always known that while civil officials appeared to be amicable on the surface, quite a few of them would stab him in the back.

They were all incredibly arrogant.

Unlike his own son-in-law, who patiently explained things, Cao Liyong said to his son:
"When you go out with your brother-in-law, you should observe and learn more, and keep your mouth shut, understand?"

"I understand, my son understands everything."

Cao Yuan dared not utter a word of rebuttal.

Having been suppressed by his father for so many years, he was certain that he would never surpass his father's achievements in this lifetime.

So he understood perfectly well what he was doing.

Now that he's lucky enough to have a brother-in-law who's a top scholar, Cao Yuan's mind is starting to wander.

There may be many more opportunities in the future.

This kind of diplomatic mission is not something everyone has the opportunity to take on.

Cao Liyong stroked his beard and pondered for a moment:
"So, Liu Sui's impeachment of Zhongli Jin is just the beginning?"

"Of course."

Song Xuan held the teacup lid in his hand and brushed away the tea foam:
"Are Xia Song and Yan Shu, both civil officials, capable of holding these positions for long?"

"Either he can directly enter the ranks of vice prime minister, or he can directly serve as the chief privy councilor, which will be a transition to entering the ranks of vice prime minister."

"We already have two Privy Councilors. Do you really think adding another one is some worthless position that can be added at will?"

“Zhang Qi has done a great service to the Empress Dowager, so his position is as secure as Mount Tai. Therefore, the only option left is for my father-in-law to vacate his position.”

Cao Liyong's pupils widened slightly.

Upon such analysis, this is indeed the case.

During the reigns of Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong, the Privy Councilors were either military officers or close attendants of princes.

Only starting from the reign of Emperor Zhenzong did the top scholar Chen Yaosou serve as Privy Councilor multiple times, as did Wang Qinruo, who also served as Minister.

The position of Privy Councilor was no longer exclusive to military officers; civil officials gained more power. This became the norm during the reign of Emperor Renzong, and the position was mostly held by civil officials.

“Father-in-law, since there is a precedent, someone will offer this position as a promise.”

“I was worried that while our family would be safe in Tokyo with you looking after us, our relatives far away might be able to use this against us to achieve their pre-planned goals.”

"Father, my cousin likes to drink, I'm afraid..." Cao Yuan added.

While Cao Li was busy making achievements and establishing his career, his younger brother had children earlier, and his nephew Cao Rui is now able to stand on his own.

"I wrote the letter a long time ago."

Cao Liyong shook his head.

Anyway, Song Xuan is going to go and see for himself. As long as nothing happens during this period, we'll consider ourselves lucky.

If someone catches you doing something wrong at this time, you can only blame yourself for the bad luck.

Cao Liyong and Song Xuan actually got along quite well.

Because he was very generous when he was young and didn't value money.

As a result, many of Cao Liyong's subordinates held him in high esteem, and after Cao Liyong rose to a high position, he promoted and appointed his own people.

Now, after his son-in-law reminded him that the higher one climbs, the more isolated one becomes, and that someone wanted to get rid of him, Cao Yong felt somewhat apprehensive.

After all, he's been in this "comfort zone" for too long, and once he's removed from it...

He's a man who cares about his reputation.

The psychological gap is still hard to accept at first.

Despite having been in officialdom for so long, Cao Li still lacked shrewdness.

"Although I played the role of a nice guy in the court for several years, I still offended many people."

Cao Liyong looked at his son-in-law and said:
“I didn’t care before, but looking back now I do care a little.”

"If they impeach me, I'll just quit. As long as it doesn't ruin your future."

"Haha, father-in-law is joking."

Song Xuan put down the lid of his teacup:
"The Song and Cao families have long been intertwined; how can they be separated at will?"

"I was just reminding my father-in-law of the worst possible outcome; the pot of boiling water in the imperial court is getting hotter and hotter."

“Even if someone tries to smear my father-in-law, we’ll have to wait until I return from the Khitans before we deal with it.”

"Or if there's anything urgent, go find Zhang Fangping. I compared codes with him, and he has a photographic memory. Just tell him directly."

"If I receive the letter, I will return immediately if I can. If I cannot return immediately, I will still write a letter."

Cao Yong knew what his son-in-law was doing in Khitan and that he probably wouldn't be back for a while.

If war were to break out, he would inevitably stay with the Khitans to watch the spectacle.

Observe their military equipment.

This is the established strategy. During this period, I need to maintain a good mindset and not cause trouble for my son-in-law.

"Okay," Cao Liyong replied.

Today is a day off, and not only the Cao family is having a meal together, but other officials are also having a meal together.

After a hearty meal, Zhong Lijin clinked glasses with Prince Consort Wang Yiyong.

The banquet was hosted by Wang Yiyong's cousin.

Wang Yiyong's grandfather was a prime minister of four dynasties across two generations, from Emperor Taizu of Zhou to Emperor Taizu of Song.

His uncle also married a princess, and said that this nephew was like him.

Then he did marry the daughter of Emperor Taizong and spent his time gaining experience abroad.

There are rumors that Wang Yiyong will be promoted to a position in the Privy Council.

Zhong Lijin was able to get in touch with him because of the rare flowers and stones.

Although Wang Yiyong doesn't like to talk, he also pursues inner fulfillment.

He was very interested in rare flowers and stones.

This time, he went back to his home in Tokyo to enjoy the garden, and only after he was pleased with the view did he agree to have a banquet with Zhongli Jin.

Zhong Lijin also found out about it.

It seems that there is some old grudge between Prince Consort Wang Yiyong and Cao Liyong.

Now Zhongli Jin is helpless against Song Xuan. Most of the officials who dared to target Song Xuan have been sent to other posts, and no one dares to provoke him anymore.

We were all civil officials, and we all had our own protective charms.

But what could he do when his father-in-law was a military general?

It couldn't be more convenient for a civil official to control a military general.

"Your Highness, come here."

Zhong Lijin kept urging him to drink, saying that once he discovered a new Taihu stone, he would definitely send it directly to his post.

However, the rivers in Tokyo are currently under repair under Song Xuan's arrangement, so boats cannot reach them directly.

You need a discerning eye to appreciate these rare and unusual stones; not just any stone can be called a rare or unusual stone.

"Song Xuan?" Wang Yiyong's eyes were also somewhat blurry with drunkenness.
"I've heard that Cao Liyong is very lucky; he found a good son-in-law."

"That's right. Even the top scholar who achieved the highest honors in all three categories didn't even fancy the prime minister's daughter, and instead chose the daughter of Minister Cao. I don't know what Scholar Song was thinking. My daughter is much prettier than the Cao family's daughter."

Zhong Lijin also muttered:

"This has never happened before since the founding of the Song Dynasty."

"Ah."

Before Wang Yiyong could say anything more, his cousin spoke up:

"What? Song Xuan suddenly has a daughter. If she were to marry the Prime Minister's daughter, he would definitely not agree."

"But even if Minister Cao knew, he wouldn't dare utter a single word."

Wang Yiyong responded with an "oh":
"Is this true?"

"The entire population of Tokyo knows about it."

Whether these rumors are true or false is still uncertain.

Wang Yiyong did not believe that listening to rumors meant he was right, and that many things were simply unknown to outsiders.

Moreover, he had heard from outside that Song Xuan's actions were all for the country and its people.

To accomplish so much at such a young age must be no small feat.

How could Song Xuan be as despicable as his cousin described?
"It's true." Zhongli Jin clicked his tongue twice.

“Your Highness, if you see the father and daughter standing together, you will know that what the people of Tokyo said is true.”

"They look like they were made from the same mold."

"Song Xuan, relying on his handsome face, seduced Gu Tongpan's wife and had a child with her."

"Oh?"

Wang Yiyong became interested and quickly asked what had happened.

After Zhong Lijin finished speaking, Wang Yiyong was amazed.

It's unbelievable that Song Xuan, with such a good reputation, was so outrageous in his youth.

But then I thought about it again, and it's normal. A man who isn't a bit of a playboy in his youth is wasting his life.

When you get old and lust arises, will your body still be able to keep up?

Those are completely different combat states.

"At that time, Cao Shizhong was sent to handle Dou Chou's case. It seems that he had known Song Xuan for a long time, which is why the marriage was arranged."

Wang Yiyong nodded:

"Cao Liyong actually encountered it; he always has extremely good luck."

"Who says it isn't?"

Zhong Lijin also deeply agreed.

If it weren't for the fact that prime ministers couldn't easily leave the capital, how could Cao Yong have been tasked with handling such a matter?

"No, that's not right." Wang Yiyong tried to shake off his drunkenness:
"According to you, Song Xuan, who is so fond of flaunting his reputation, will definitely protect this matter to the death, and might even deny it!"

"How could he possibly bring him out in public for a public parade, especially to the Empress Dowager's side?"

“Yes.” Zhong Lijin was also puzzled by Song Xuan’s actions.

"However, this boy's actions have always been unpredictable and erratic, and no one can figure out what he's thinking."

Then Zhongli Jin began to complain bitterly, saying that when he was a prefectural judge, Song Xuan was unruly.

Now that he has become the prefect, he still refuses to obey orders. Liu Sui impeached him, and both were demoted and sent to remote areas by the Empress Dowager.

He was determined to make Song Xuan pay.

Wang Yiyong nodded:

“This boy has poor morals; I will definitely impeach him before the Empress Dowager.”

"Yeah."

The Wei brothers responded in unison.

Back then, Emperor Zhenzong of Song said that Wei Xianxin was old and ill, and his sons were not very capable, so he could not maintain the family business.

Now, it is Wang Yiyong, the nephew, who is in charge of the Wei family and helps to support the family.

Despite being older than him, Wang Yiyong is the head of the Wei family line.

After sobering up, Wang Yiyong didn't linger. He washed up and went straight to the palace.

It was for no other reason than that he had an old grudge against Cao Liyong.

Emperor Zhenzong's brothers all died, and few of his sisters survived either. It is unknown whether this was due to Emperor Taizong's skill in using anesthetic drugs.

Wang Yiyong, the prince consort, married a princess the first year, and the princess died of illness the following year; his health was just that poor.

Therefore, Empress Liu respected this son-in-law who had served Emperor Taizong.

Even if she marries someone else later, the kinship ties cannot be severed.

Because his name was already recorded in the royal register, it would only be erased if he committed a serious crime.

"Your Majesty, I have heard some rumors circulating in the streets. Others dare not impeach me, but I must say something."

Liu E responded with an "oh".

Thinking that Wang Yiyong had come to cause her trouble, she generously told him to speak.

After listening to various sources, it turned out that it was an impeachment of Song Xuan.

This surprised Liu E.

She didn't know how Song Xuan had offended this minister who wasn't serving in the capital.

Moreover, it would allow him to come to the palace specifically to discuss this matter.

As for the fact that Song Xuan had a child, Liu E didn't care at all.

That's their private matter.

Besides, it's not like the Song Dynasty forbade widows to remarry with their children.

They're willing to acknowledge that the child is their own, yet you still make demands.

That's meddling way too much, isn't it?
It’s none of your business!
"Where did you hear about this?"

When questioned by Liu E, Wang Yiyong insisted that the story originated from the common people.

Moreover, the capital city is of paramount importance, so how could such a person be appointed as the magistrate of the capital? In short, it is not very suitable.

"You don't need to concern yourself with this matter."

Liu E directly gave Wang Yiyong's verdict:

"Most rumors circulating among the people are exaggerated and untrue, so why bother with them?"

"Besides, you're not a censor, so do you perhaps want to take on this position?"

"I don't dare."

Wang Yiyong quickly refused. He had no desire to serve in the central government during the reign of Emperor Zhenzong; instead, he wanted to stay away from the capital and seek a life of freedom.

"I intend to transfer you to the Privy Council and promote you to the position of Associate Privy Councilor. What do you think?"

"I will obey Your Majesty's arrangements."

Seeing that Liu E remained unmoved, Wang Yiyong changed the subject and brought up his own affairs, to which Wang Yiyong quickly agreed.

They all knew about Liu Sui's past.

Whatever task the Empress Dowager assigns you, just accept it.

Even when working with Cao Yongli, Wang Yiyong felt that he should just do his job properly.

"But what you said makes sense."

Liu E then comforted him, saying:
"I will reconsider the candidate for magistrate of Kaifeng County."

Wang Yiyong quickly stood up and bowed:
"Your Majesty is wise; it is truly a blessing for the nation."

"Well, you should go and rest for a while. The transfer order will be issued in a few days."

"Here."

Wang Yiyong left quite happily.

He had no feelings for Song Xuan.

They were just using this as an excuse to attack Cao Yongli.

After he left, Liu E beckoned Yang Huaimin over:
“Go and investigate who Wang Yiyong has been in contact with, and why he impeached Song Twelve as soon as he returned to the capital.”

"Here."

Yang Huaimin also found it strange.

What exactly happened?

Could it be that someone is seeking revenge on Scholar Song because he is so successful?
Upon receiving Wang Yiyong's message, Zhong Lijin burst into laughter.

"Song Xuan, you've finally met your match!"

"Let's see if you're still so arrogant then."

If the Empress Dowager gives in, what chance does Song Xuan have as the magistrate of Kaifeng?

Zhong Lijin felt a surge of relief.

As for Song Xiang, he didn't even need to take action himself. Local powerful figures who couldn't stand it had already started picking on the weakest among the two Song rulers.

Even if Song Xiang acted tough, compared to Song Xuan...

He's still too much of a pushover!
Therefore, because Song Xiang enforced the law strictly, many officials in Xiangfu County left and quit.

Taxes were not collected.

Instead, the people who were supposed to do the work stopped doing it.

He will inevitably be impeached.

Sure enough, just as Liu E received news of her relatives impeaching Song Xuan, someone else impeached Song Xiang.

"The administration was so strict that all the officials in the county government were gone, having all fled."

Liu E looked displeased.

It would be understandable if only one person were impeached, but both of them were impeached.

That means you've been targeted intentionally!

This is absolutely not directed at the Song-Song couple, but at her, the Empress Dowager.

Since the Song-Song couple took charge of the city, the results have been remarkable, and the people's gratitude towards Empress Liu has been endless.

The main reason was that people like Yang Huaimin were happy to spread the word and make her happy.

This keeps her constantly in this information cocoon.

The local tycoons who cursed the Song-Song couple for their harsh enforcement of the law naturally did not reach Empress Liu's ears.

Their interests were harmed by the laws of the Song Dynasty, so Yang Huaimin and others naturally wouldn't speak up for them. The fact that they didn't turn around and accuse others was a sign that they didn't want to escalate the situation.

It can be said that Liu E's recent reputation was entirely earned by Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo.

"Yeah."

Liu E stood up and chuckled:
"First, someone impeached Zhongli Jin, the Prefect of Kaifeng whom I personally appointed."

"When one plan failed, another was devised, and they began to impeach the two county magistrates whom I had personally appointed."

"Does this capital city of Tokyo belong to the government, or to these people?"

Those around dared not interrupt, but they were certain that the Empress Dowager would usually laugh in anger before she got truly furious.

She finally managed to pick out two young top scholars as role models, to let the world see the Empress Dowager's reputation for recognizing talent and her willingness to appoint newcomers.

Not long after, they suffered this blow.

No wonder she couldn't be happy.

Just then, Yang Huaimin hurriedly returned and whispered a few words in Liu E's ear, asking her to investigate.

"Ok?"

Liu E never expected that someone would use Zhong Lijin to attack her two subordinates; it was simply unheard of.

What was Zhong Lijin thinking?

Liu E was so angry that she laughed a few times in exasperation.

There are not only external reasons, but also internal ones.

However, the position of Prefect of Kaifeng was extremely important, and even if Empress Liu knew the truth, she would not immediately remove Zhongli Jin.

On the contrary, we should protect him.

After all, it represents her reputation.

Liu E had already quietly decided that once the matter was settled and the anger of the masses was appeased, she would then throw Zhong Lijin out.

Whoever has no value will be the first to be abandoned.

"The memorials impeaching the two Songs have all been left unresolved. I want to see how many more people will jump out."

"Here."

Yang Huaimin quickly responded.

In Xiangfu County, some officials had connections with local powerful families. Or perhaps they were concubines of powerful families who, upon receiving orders, simply left.

As the rumors spread, it became clear that all the officials in the county were now in vacancies.

Indeed, there are very few people left.

Song Xiang knew this was retaliation from local powerful figures against him, and he was unhappy about the installment tax payment.

He wasn't too discouraged; the sooner this happened, the better.

Otherwise, when it comes time to collect taxes, it will catch him off guard.

These people have so little patience.

So Song Xiang resorted to his old method and started calling in the Imperial Guards to help maintain order.

The clerks weren't even considered officials; once they left, they were gone.

Faced with the sighs, advice, and even the resignation of his three subordinates who said they couldn't work anymore.

Song Xiang waited quietly to watch their performance, and only spoke when no one else spoke:

“If the three of you don’t want to work here anymore, you can submit your resignations here together, and I will report the truth to the Empress Dowager.”

"My lord, we're out of manpower. How are we supposed to get the work done?"

"Aren't you human?" Song Xiang glanced at him. "Tell me, are you human or not!"

"is not it?"

None of the three spoke, and then Song Xiang pointed at them one by one:

"Why don't you go patrol yourself?"

"Can't you handle government affairs yourself?"

The county magistrate and the other two were dumbfounded.

They hadn't expected Song Xiang to be so tough, leaving no room for negotiation whatsoever.

"But sir, that's not how it's done."

"Oh?" Song Xiang looked at him with a forced smile:
"Then teach me how to handle these matters in the county government."

"Take taxes for example, how can we let the local powerful families bleed too much?"

Although the county magistrate didn't explain to him the concept of a 30/70 split, with 70% going to the other party.

However, anyone who owns businesses in Tokyo must have powerful connections behind them.

Otherwise, even if you have the ability to make money, if you don't give up your shares so that others can also make money, then your business in Tokyo will not be able to continue.

How can we force them to pay taxes?

"I see."

Song Xiang nodded, feigning nonchalance.

“Now you go and collect the taxes they owe. If you don’t do a good job, you can leave. I won’t stop you.”

Despite all their efforts, the top scholar remained unmoved.

On the contrary, they wanted them all to leave.

I was a little confused for a moment, wondering what was going on.

What gives him the right to be so arrogant?

Song Xiang's toughness stemmed from the fact that those clerks were no human being in front of the government.

The county government can function even without anyone.

Besides, he really isn't afraid of things escalating.

He even wanted to take the opportunity to get rid of three subordinates.

At that time, there will be plenty of people willing to be promoted to work here, making it convenient for him to give orders.

It's fair to say they take themselves too seriously.

Song Xiang lacked Song Xuan's masterful skills in managing people and his ambition to make money; he only thought that if the person wasn't suitable, he could simply replace them.

As for the skilled workers he needed, he wasn't afraid at all.

I'll go to Song Xuan's place and find a few experienced temporary workers.

If they were to be appointed as clerks in Xiangfu County and promoted to full-fledged positions, they would probably all flock to the position.

Such a great opportunity is a rare one for those who cannot become officials.

If someone could impeach me for mishandling the situation, that would be wonderful; I've been looking for an excuse to make a big fuss.

Song Xiang decided to visit Song Xuan's home after his shift to discuss the matter of borrowing people.

"My lord, this is the situation."

Inside Kaifeng County, Qi Lecheng was sharing some information he had gathered.

"Oh, it seems my cousin is being targeted."

Song Xuan nodded and told Qi Lecheng to go and rest for a while.

"Twelfth Brother, when I came here today, I also heard about someone criticizing your reputation."

Zhao Zhen now enjoys having breakfast at a shop outside and then strolling over with his entourage.

The feeling of wearing the white dragonfish costume is kind of cool.

Anyway, now that his mother doesn't let him get involved in politics or with ministers, Zhao Zhen would have been extremely internally conflicted before.

But now, he is enveloped only by the excitement of finally seeing his biological mother after so many years.

Zhao Zhen eagerly awaited this day to arrive.

"They have mouths on their bodies; they're just a few online trolls stirring up public opinion."

Song Xuan waved his hand indifferently:
"Neither Song Xiang nor I are the main targets; the primary focus is on the Empress Dowager."

Emperor Renzong (Zhao Zhen) was also eager to assume personal rule, and he certainly understood that some people were using his name to ask the Empress Dowager to return power to him.

Therefore, Zhao Zhen's current feelings are extremely complicated.

He wanted to take power as soon as possible, but he didn't want to hurt anyone.

Even if he were the emperor, the reality would not change because of his will.

Besides, they don't even have the power yet.

"Slinging mud at me and defaming me is a tactic I've used before, but this is the first time I've encountered a situation where half of the officials in Xiangfu County have left."

Song Xuan laughed a few times: "I've really learned something new."

"Twelfth Brother, aren't you afraid the clerk will just leave too?"

"Are the officials in Kaifeng County quitting their jobs?"

Song Xuan waved his hand confidently and said:

"They're not the dogs of the local tyrants, so why should I get the treatment they deserve?"

"Even if they provide temporary relief, how long can they continue to provide it?"

"And it also indirectly helped me eliminate disloyal people and stabilize the purity of the team."

"I'm so grateful to them; for me, it's like winning twice."

Zhang Fangping chuckled; he was the person who knew Song Xuan best.

They truly don't value money.

People who make a little gold want to hide it all away, even bury it underground, so that no one else knows.

Twelfth Brother casually started to distribute the money, displaying an air of confidence that even if he spent all his money, he could always make it back.

That confidence alone makes people believe that he really can do it.

If you're easily swayed by such paltry gains, then you don't deserve to follow Brother Twelve and make a fortune.

Zhao Zhen nodded in agreement. Even the clerks of the Kaifeng government were willing to come to Kaifeng County to work, which showed how attractive it was.

Song Xuan also said meaningfully:
"Sixth Brother, now you know how difficult it is to get those who have already benefited to give up their share, right?"

"This is just a small county government office, let alone the entire Song Dynasty."

Zhao Zhen felt that these experiences were not something he could gain from simply reading memorials and listening to the prime minister and teachers talk about history in the palace.

When his son grows up a little older, he will also come to the county government office to observe the administration.

Only by starting small and progressing gradually can one avoid being easily deceived by subordinate ministers in the future.

The emperor sat firmly in the palace, handling all kinds of news.

Most of them live in information cocoons, and unless someone mentions it, they have no idea what is happening in the world.

"However, on the other hand, since Xiangfu County is short of clerks, some of the temporary clerks in my Kaifeng County may also have the opportunity to be promoted."

Song Xuan smiled, his eyes slightly narrowed:

"It would be best if my cousin could work harder and try to get rid of the county magistrate, so that I can help Zheng, the registrar, get promoted to county magistrate."

“Let the lower-level officials be promoted and given a change of scenery, such as sitting in the position of chief clerk or going to Xiangfu County to serve as chief clerk.”

"Difficult." Zhao Zhen shook his head.

"Officials and clerks are not the same."

Song Xuan didn't respond; he would just have Song Xiang go find the Empress Dowager later.

These things have happened under my command, and the county magistrate and the registrar must be held accountable. They failed to manage their subordinates properly.

Is this a slap in the face to Song Xiang, the magistrate of Xiangfu County?
This is clearly a slap in the face to the Empress Dowager!

When trouble broke out in Xiangfu County, the officials in Kaifeng County naturally just watched the spectacle.

In comparison, it's definitely more reliable to have this superior protecting us.

What a hard life we ​​had before, what a good life we ​​will have in the future.

Although high-ranking officials are now forbidden from talking about their various benefits and monthly allowances, their lives are visibly improving, and this cannot be hidden.

Not to mention there's another sum of one million strings of cash that hasn't been deposited yet.

When Song Xuan returned home in a grand manner, he found that Song Xiang had already entered and was waiting in the living room.

"Cousin?"

"Sorry for bothering you."

Song Xiang didn't come empty-handed either, bringing some small gifts for the children.

He knows basic etiquette.

They didn't say much, but had dinner together and then went to Song Xuan's study.

Song Xiang got straight to the point:
"You should know why I'm here. Enough with the small talk, someone is targeting you and me behind our backs."

"I know."

Song Xuan nodded, watching the steam rising from the teacup:

"First take you down, then take me down, and we'll take them down one by one."

Song Xiang blew on his teacup:
“I knew you were prepared. I want to borrow some experienced people from you to help me stabilize the basic administrative affairs of the county government.”

"It's too formal to say 'please'."

Song Xuan blew on the teacup lid and said, "Cousin, you can just use it directly."

"Oh, so what are your conditions?"

"What conditions can I have? I can't expect them to work for me for nothing. I have to accept the promises they're made."

Song Xuan pointed at Song Xiang: "Cousin, do I need to give you a hint?"

"Hahaha."

Song Xiang sighed:
"Everyone says that it's hard to guess what Master Song is thinking, but sometimes it's actually quite easy to guess."

He said to Song Xuan:
“I will impeach the county magistrate, the registrar, and the county lieutenant for failing to manage their subordinates properly and for colluding with local powerful figures.”

"The seats will naturally become available. As for how many people from Kaifeng County will occupy them, I have no idea."

"Of course, of course. We'll just do what we need to do these next few days and wait for the Empress's summons."

Song Xuan put down his teacup: "In this way, it won't be considered that we are forming cliques for personal gain."

"Don't."

Song Xiang shook his head:
“Cousin, we can’t be too passive about this. I’m afraid someone will be watching and telling others about my visit today.”

"Therefore, we should act swiftly and resolve this matter quickly."

“Cousin, there’s no need to be in such a hurry. You’ve purged so many people in Xiangfu County, but there aren’t many of my own people in Kaifeng County who have defected. I’d like to see that too.”

Song Xuan also asked him not to be too anxious for the time being, but to wait for him, as things had not yet reached the point of no return.

Many people are still observing, so take this opportunity to get rid of some people and free up positions.

We'll go to the palace together later to discuss these matters with the Empress Dowager.

Presumably, the Empress Dowager wouldn't be too harsh on the person in charge of appointing an official in a county government office.

Once they make the recommendation, that's it.

Liu E wouldn't take such a minor official seriously.

“Respond to ever-changing situations with constancy.”

Song Xuan wore a smile on his face:

"The bigger the escalation, the better, so we can better retaliate. Let them run rampant for a few days and see if they have any other tricks up their sleeves."

"That makes sense."

Song Xiang spoke again:

"Do you think Zhongli Jin might have been behind this?"

"He used stories of rare flowers and strange rocks, as well as the idea that relics could be produced between his eyebrows and eyes, to befriend many powerful and influential people in the capital."

"Whether he is or not, even if we believe in our hearts that he must be involved, we must pretend not to know in front of the Empress Dowager."

Song Xuan coughed lightly: "After all, you, me, and Zhongli Jin were all promoted and arranged by the Empress Dowager."

"Ah."

Song Xiang nodded; he actually understood the meaning behind Song Xuan's words.

The two young people pretended not to know they were being betrayed by the "senior employee," but the old lady herself would figure it out.

"Then let's wait a few days."

"Row."

Song Xiang then took a look at Song Xuan's study, which was decorated in a unique way.

"Your handwriting is really good."

"Given time, it will surely inspire others to follow suit."

Song Xuan chuckled a few times:

"I haven't met any great calligraphers or painters yet, so I don't have the opportunity to buy some to decorate my home. So I just hang up my own for my own amusement."

"This painting is really interesting."

"Haha, it was drawn by my daughter, so it's naturally full of childlike charm."

"You two, father and daughter, are so alike." Song Xiang shook his head again.

"My son has never seemed like a well-behaved child."

"Your son is so young, there will be plenty of time to educate him later."

Faced with Song Xuan's words of comfort, Song Xiang simply shook his head.

There's some truth to the old saying that you can tell what a person will be like at three years old.

Song Xiang was right; his son had associated with bandits after coming of age, which caused trouble for his father and led to his demotion by the emperor.

Faced with the rumors and gossip in the capital, the two Song emperors remained unmoved.

This made the people behind the scenes quite uneasy.

Are all young people this generation so calm and collected?

They orchestrated a new wave of propaganda attacks, claiming that Xiangfu County had come to a standstill, and that Song Xiang was guilty of extremely serious crimes, such as inciting the people to rebel.

Song Xuan wasn't targeted by the main focus; the conversation revolved around gossip about his crotch and his desire to favor his concubine over his wife.

The intention was to stir up a family drama within his organization, preferably a big one.

Song Xuan was waiting for someone to poach his staff, and he planned to replicate the same tactics used in Xiangfu County in Kaifeng County to get a large number of people to leave.

However, the person behind the scenes was also clever and didn't try to make trouble for the officials and yamen runners in Kaifeng County.

They couldn't afford the price Song Xuan offered.

Moreover, it is easy for people to trace the mastermind behind it.

This greatly disappointed Song Xuan.

Even if they just give it a try!

If Kaifeng County isn't truly a monolithic entity and some water can be spilled in, then we'll make a fortune.

pity.

I have no courage at all.

However, it's understandable. Even AI has to pick on the weak to overtake others, let alone humans!
It doesn't matter about Song Joong-ki and Song Hye-kyo, but Liu E is the most impatient.

She immediately sent someone to summon the two of them into the palace.

What's it like outside?

Liu E then pointed to the mountain of memorials piled on the table:

"You've both been impeached so many times, why don't you two seem worried?"

"Your Majesty, the innocent will remain innocent, and the guilty will remain guilty."

Song Xiang explained his reasons in a proper and respectful manner.

Liu E looked at Song Xuan, and then heard him speak:
“Your Majesty, I don’t take these rumors to heart at all, because I didn’t do them.”

"Okay, okay."

Empress Liu was very satisfied to see that the two of them were not angry or flustered at all, showing great composure.
"Then I can rest assured."

"But you two are still the top scholars of our Great Song Dynasty who have won the triple crown. I can't stand by and watch you be slandered like this."

Such straightforward protectiveness pleased the two Songs.

Liu E looked at the two of them:

"You two, please speak up. I refuse to believe that you have no way to deal with this."

"Your Majesty, please allow me to report."

Song Xiang stood up voluntarily:
"The county government can still function normally without me as the magistrate, not to mention the clerks."

He went on to mention the collusion between the clerks and local powerful families, as well as the fact that all three of his subordinates were doing the same.

Therefore, the occurrence of such an event in Xiangfu County was instigated by someone behind the scenes.

If we want to completely thwart this conspiracy, we have no choice but to arrest them all and interrogate them thoroughly.

Such drastic measures were beyond Liu E's expectations.

She hadn't expected Song Xiang to be so radical, so she looked at Song Xuan:

"Song Twelve, what do you think?"

"Your Majesty, I think Magistrate Song's idea is not good enough."

"How is it not good enough?"

Song Xuan also stood up:
"Such actions by officials of our great Song Dynasty must be severely punished, and the forces behind them must be eradicated."

"If they can overthrow the county government today, they can overthrow the prefectural government tomorrow, and I don't even dare to think about the day after!"

"Most importantly, the security situation in Tokyo, which had just begun to improve, will inevitably rebound even more severely."

"At that time, all sorts of demons and monsters will come out, which will be an even greater disaster for the people who abide by the laws of the Song Dynasty."

Liu E felt she shouldn't have asked Song Xuan.

He's even more radical than Song Xiang!
The relationships among the people living in Tokyo are complex and intertwined.

Liu E was also afraid of implicating her own clansmen.

At times, Liu E still had a clear understanding of her own people.

Therefore, she did not immediately agree with Song Xuan's words.

Instead, he instructed Song Xiang to act according to his plan first, interrogate the specific person behind the scenes, and then draw a conclusion.

Liu E did not want a repeat of the incident where Wang Qixiong was killed, leaving her unable to save him even if she wanted to.

Song Xuan still felt it was a pity and wanted to offer further advice.

Liu E pretended not to hear Song Xuan say that it was too conservative and that a strong attack was necessary, and instead continued to ask the "conservative" Song Xiang.

If all the officials under him were dismissed or transferred to other places, the clerks in Xiangfu County would be completely empty, and there would be no one to do the work.

Ultimately, it wasn't a perfect outcome.

Song Xiang then suggested temporarily transferring people from Kaifeng County to serve as clerks, with the same administrative duties.

Their abilities might even be enhanced with Song Xuan's training.

How can we quickly stabilize the various government affairs in Xiangfu County?
"That's a good idea."

Liu E then looked at Song Xuan: "Song Twelve, are you willing to part with this?"

(End of this chapter)