Do You Know?: I, the Little Cabinet Elder, Regent of the World.

Chapter 283 Gu Tingye Wants to Write the Thirty-Six Stratagems?!

The Duke's Mansion of Qi.

The hanging scrolls in the central hall are arranged in a clear order of importance and hierarchy.

Duke Qi, Princess Pingning, Qi Heng, Lady Shen, and Han Ge'er, each with a chair, gathered together.

Among them, "Han Ge'er" is the nickname of Qi Heng's eldest son, whose formal name is Qi Hanyi.

Han refers to literary talent or scholar.

Yi means beautiful and noble.

The characters 翰 and 懿 both carry auspicious meanings.

However, when combined, they inevitably look somewhat incongruous.

The main reason for this is that Qi Hanyi's name was changed.

Moreover, it was Duke Ningguo, Gu Tingye, who changed his name.

His real name is actually "Qi Hanming①".

Han means literary talent or scholar.

Ming means to understand principles and be wise.

Qi Hanming, in terms of its auspicious meaning, is an excellent name.

However, this very name inadvertently stirred up a controversy surrounding a military family.

It is said that Duke Ningguo, Gu Tingye, was furious about this, and went to Qi Heng's door with a knife, almost tearing him apart.

As for why?

It's not hard to guess, actually.

The main reason is that "翰" sounds like "憾", implying regret, pity, and concern.

As prominent figures of their time, the entanglement between Qi Heng and Sheng Minglan was not only widely known, but also quite well-known.

Hanming?

No, regrettable!

To say that such a name didn't contain a bit of Qi Heng's ulterior motives would be a lie.

Any normal man would be furious if his wife was being targeted by someone else.

Given Gu Tingye's temperament and status, it was even more impossible for him to swallow his anger alone without any reaction.

How could a dignified Deputy Privy Councilor, one of the Grand Chancellor's confidants, be bullied by a mere young master?
Even if the Emperor and the Grand Chancellor intend to use Qi Heng as a mirror, in terms of importance, Qi Heng is nothing.

And so, a scene of "paying a visit" unfolded.

It's unclear what kind of "friendly exchange" took place, but anyway, Qi Heng's eldest son's name was changed to "Qi Hanyi".

Of course, there are also rumors that "Yi" is related to Qi Heng's father, the Duke of Qi.

It is true that the Duke of Qi only had Princess Pingning in his entire life.

However, he did have a female acquaintance in his youth, whose given name contained the character "懿".

Gu Tingye renamed his grandson "Hanyi," clearly indicating that he was not someone to be trifled with.

"Heng'er."

"I acted impulsively!"

The Duke of Qi folded his sleeves, his face solemn, and said, "His Majesty intends to lead the Northern Expedition; his mind is made up. Even the Grand Chancellor cannot dissuade him. Why should you rashly step forward?"

Around noon, in the Wende Hall, Emperor Zhao Ceying said, "Even the Grand Chancellor couldn't persuade me," which shows that his determination to launch a northern expedition was firm.

As a result, many censors and remonstrating officials began to have second thoughts and dared not continue to speak out.

After all, though the words may be rough, the principle is sound. The Emperor and the Grand Chancellor are comparable to emperors and ministers throughout history. If even the Grand Chancellor couldn't persuade them, then it's even less likely that anyone else could succeed.

As a result, just when the censors and remonstrators were about to give up, Qi Heng remained undeterred, holding his tablet and continuing to loudly remonstrate, offering his advice incessantly.

The remonstrance, citing classical texts, lasted for over a hundred breaths, at one point causing the official's face to turn ashen and his expression to show displeasure.

Such a method of advice was far too dangerous and inflexible, which naturally caused the Duke of Qi great concern.

Given the nature of officials, if they were truly determined, they could really kill people!

"The emperor's affairs concern the fate of the nation; how can we act rashly?"

"Father."

Qi Heng looked serious and solemnly said, "War and flames are everywhere, and danger is extreme."

"During the southern expedition to Jiaozhi, the Emperor was accidentally shot in the left arm."

"To launch a northern expedition, in case something happens..."

"Be careful!"

The Duke of Qi hurriedly interrupted loudly, looking extremely nervous: "Be careful what you say!"

How dare I say such things?

If this gets out and becomes a topic of discussion, wouldn't it be seen as cursing the government?

Qi Heng's expression softened, and he solemnly declared with an air of righteousness, "Why should an official who offers advice fear death?"

"I am deeply grateful for the trust of His Majesty and the Grand Chancellor, and for being able to hold the power of a fourth-rank official while holding the rank of a sixth-rank official. This is truly a great favor from the Emperor. Therefore, I should speak frankly and openly offer my advice."

"Otherwise, wouldn't they be ungrateful, disloyal, and unfilial?"

"Heng'er, do you know that the emperor's heart is like a tiger?!"

The Duke of Qi looked helpless.

His son, Qi Heng, was born into a military family, yet he passed the imperial examination and became a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations), making him one of the more accomplished members of the second generation.

However, this is far too straightforward and naive!
"Ugh!"

With a sigh, the Duke of Qi's eyes were filled with worry and unease: "Throughout history, eight or nine out of ten officials who dared to speak out against injustice were demoted."

"If even scholars are like this, what about the sons of military families who serve as remonstrating officials?"

The Duke of Qi sighed, “Those who serve as remonstrance officials must also be observant and perceptive. If they recklessly offend the king and incur his wrath, what will become of their promising future? What will become of the five generations of the Duke of Qi’s legacy?”

Serving a ruler is like serving a tiger; the fact that the son angered the emperor several times was truly terrifying.

Even the Duke of Qi could vaguely see his position as Duke, appearing and disappearing, swaying back and forth.

He panicked!

"A subject should be loyal to his ruler."

Qi Heng remained calm: "Your Majesty possesses great talent and ambition, aspires to unify the country, and is certainly magnanimous."

"You won't belittle me!"

The Duke of Qi shook his head helplessly.

I can't persuade them!
A subject cannot persuade the emperor, nor can a father persuade his son!

Jiang Mansion, Cool Pavilion.

A gentle tap of a copper bell causes the water to ripple.

A long pear wood table, about ten feet in length, was set with pastries, candied fruits, melons, tea, and lychee wine.

Jiang Zhao, Gu Tingye, and Wang Shao sat facing each other.

This was the only time the three of them had met alone in nearly a year and a half.

On the one hand, all three of them were busy.

Gu Tingye and Wang Shao were both military officers and nobles who had entered the Privy Council, while Jiang Zhao was the Grand Chancellor who held absolute power over the country.

In terms of real power, they are all top-tier figures, and naturally, they are quite busy.

On the other hand, given their status and real power, it is not convenient for them to get together frequently.

Jiang Zhao was the foremost subject.

Gu Tingye and Wang Shao were quite different, but they were both deputy privy councilors, and both were in their thirties, full of vigor and very capable fighters.

This trio is a powerful and well-equipped force, possessing both military and political capabilities!

Frequent gatherings are really not a good thing!
Therefore, the three of them try to avoid meeting each other.

Even at the celebratory banquets for Gu Tingye and Wang Shao, Jiang Zhao only sent gifts and did not personally offer his congratulations.

Even during this gathering, Jiang Zhao went to the palace alone to explain the situation to Zhao Ceying—the three old friends were about to launch an army north and had a few drinks together to discuss the situation on the frontier.

It's tough, even the Grand Master has his own difficulties!

Even a simple gathering has to be considered in terms of whether it will have a good or bad impact.

"I estimate that the Liao and Xia kingdoms may have made contact."

Wang Shao raised his cup and said in a deep voice, "Yelü Hongji and Liang Yili are both coming on strong!"

Jiang Zhao and Gu Tingye raised their wine glasses one after the other.

After the three cups clashed, Gu Tingye took a small sip, his face grave: "There must have been some contact."

"According to news from the northwest and north, both countries have mobilized around 100,000 troops."

"If Liao and Xia were to suffer a major defeat in such a great battle, it would not only be a disaster that destroys the country, but it would at least severely damage the country's fate."

"How could there be such a coincidence that both sides launched their attacks at the same time?"

"No one would believe there's no connection!"

"Ah."

Wang Shao nodded in agreement, pondered for a moment, and said, "Since the southern expedition, Jiaozhi has stationed more than 50,000 troops, none of whom can be moved lightly, and there is also a temporary shortage of food and supplies. It is not surprising that the Liao and Xia kingdoms are bullying us with their power."

"After all, since the second year of the Xifeng era, Zichuan's reforms have been successful, and the strength of the Great Zhou has been rising day by day, with the gap between the three kingdoms widening."

"If we fight, there is still room for maneuver."

"If we don't fight, it will be like being happy with trouble, and there will be signs of the country's demise."

Wang Shao took a sip of wine and gazed northwest: "However, it's all in vain." "If we could seize this opportunity to send them utterly defeated, it would undoubtedly break the backbone of both nations. Unification might not be impossible!"

"Unification!"

Gu Tingye picked up a pear, took a bite, and a hint of longing appeared in his eyes: "Throughout history, most of the famous generals were those who helped their monarchs achieve unification."

"With this opportunity, we may very well achieve great things and leave our mark on history!"

Ordinary people value wealth and status, while great people value reputation.

Gu Tingye and Wang Shao were both around thirty years old, and they were full of passion and had a desire to be remembered for all time.

The most important thing is that it's not difficult!

Jiang Zhao is a master of empty promises.

Not only did they promise Zhao Ceying the title of "Emperor of the Ages," but they also promised Gu Tingye and Wang Shao the title of "Eternal Fame."

Zhao Ceying only needs to achieve unification to become a great emperor for all time.

For Gu Tingye and Wang Shao to achieve lasting fame, all they need to do is help the emperor achieve unification!
After all, Gu Tingye and Wang Shao were already the "top dogs" among military generals.

Once unification is achieved, some of the credit will naturally go to the two of them, helping them become legendary generals for all time!
A pie that's both within reach and desirable is irresistible to anyone!
Throughout history, military generals have left their mark on history.

Jiang Zhao raised an eyebrow and said calmly, "Actually, there should be two paths."

Both of them looked over.

"Two paths?" Gu Tingye asked, somewhat curious.

"He has achieved countless military exploits and possesses timeless military strategies," Jiang Zhao said calmly. "In other words, he has made contributions and left behind valuable words."

Gu Tingye and Wang Shao exchanged a glance, both of them suddenly realizing something.

To establish merit, that is, to achieve merit and help the monarch to achieve unification.

Establishing a doctrine, or following the path of military treatises, with "The Art of War" by Sun Tzu being a typical example.

There are only these two paths; there are no shortcuts.

As for some surprise attacks and great victories, or some classic close-quarters battles where the few defeated the many, they may be recorded in history, but in essence they are all "crooked ways" and cannot withstand the test of history.

Different people have different definitions of what it means to be remembered for eternity.

For some, being remembered for eternity might simply mean leaving their name in a corner of the history books.

For some, the definition of being remembered for eternity might be becoming a figure like "Wang Lun".

For some, what they define as being remembered for eternity might be having a separate biography and a detailed account of their life.

In any case, the definition of being remembered for eternity varies greatly depending on one's status, achievements, and ambitions.

For Gu Tingye and Wang Shao, the so-called "to be remembered for all time" meant becoming a famous general throughout history, like Bai Qi, Han Xin, Li Jing, and Wei Qing, whose names are recorded in historical books.

Even becoming someone like Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Yu Jin, or Di Qing wouldn't quite meet their expectations.

Of course, this does not mean that Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Yu Jin, and Di Qing were inferior.

These men are all, in fact, renowned generals.

But the problem is:
Firstly, these individuals lack sufficient "weight".

Great generals throughout history possess an invincible and magnificent aura.

The mere mention of the name evokes a sense of certainty of victory.

Zhang Liao, Yue Jin, Yu Jin, Di Qing, and the like are clearly a notch below.

Secondly, both Gu Tingye and Wang Shao have already reached this level.

Both were major contributors to the three expansions of territory. In terms of their historical status, both of them have even surpassed Di Qing.

This level is naturally not something that would meet their standards.

Above this level, one would find oneself among the most renowned generals throughout history!
"It's not a bad option; we might as well give it a try," Gu Tingye pondered.

Compared to making meritorious contributions, establishing words is actually much more difficult.

Throughout history, there have only been a handful of renowned military treatises.

However, even if the probability is low, it's worth a try.

Becoming a renowned general throughout history sounds simple, but it's actually incredibly difficult.

In history books, an inconspicuous name may be a prominent figure of a certain era.

Not to mention, a thousand years later, everyone will know about it?
This truly requires standing out among historical figures; there are no shortcuts!
The higher you go, the more emphasis is placed on genuine skills.

Of course, the boasting of writers is also quite important.

Take your time.

Jiang Zhao said calmly, "Perhaps we could try to summarize some strategies in concise terms. Maybe thirty-six, or maybe seventy-two?"

"Summarize?"

Gu Tingye took a sip of wine, his eyes growing brighter and brighter.

……

Kunning Palace.

On the dragon bed.

Xiang hesitated for a moment, then said softly, "When weapons clash, swords and arrows have no eyes. Does Your Majesty really have to personally lead the army?"

His care was evident in his words.

"That's natural, Your Majesty need not persuade me."

Zhao Ceying narrowed his eyes, his face serious, and said in a deep voice, "From the founding emperor to the present, the country has lasted for a hundred years. By the time of me, there have been five generations of emperors."

"It is rare to have such a wise and virtuous minister assisting me, which has created an opportunity for unification. How can I, the Emperor, be afraid and remain in the capital?"

I ask you, which emperor with even a little ambition could resist the temptation of achieving unification and refuse to become a great emperor for all time?
Everyone couldn't resist!
For Zhao Ceying, it was even more irresistible.

The main point is that he discovered he might even be able to combine the power of unification with a golden age!
Since he ascended the throne, in just six short years, he has achieved considerable success in both civil and military affairs.

In terms of martial arts, he has already achieved the feats of beheading the emperor, capturing Dong Zhan alive, and destroying the state of Jiaozhi.

Under the guidance of the government, reforms have been very successful, and the nation's strength is steadily increasing.

Given this situation, once martial arts are unified, he will surely become an emperor for all time and create a golden age for all time!
After all, judging from his age, he estimated that he could achieve unification in his thirties or thirties.

Even if he lives to be fifty, he still has nearly twenty years left to govern.

This means that he and Zichuan, as ruler and subject, can govern the world together for at least twenty years!
With Zichuan's governing abilities, he could definitely create a golden age in twenty years!
what is this?
This is a combination of unification and a prosperous era!

With his literary and martial talents, Zhao Ceying believed he could even rival Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, for a higher status.

"Ah."

Xiang nodded slightly and said nothing more.

The late Empress Gao was ruined by her remonstrances, and she naturally dared not overstep the bounds.

The Empress did not try to dissuade him, and Zhao Ceying was also pleased, so he couldn't help but kiss her.

"Give me another son."

"I have made up my mind."

"Zhao Jun, Zhao Shen, Zhao Xian, Zhao Xu, Zhao Jia, Zhao Ti, Zhao Bi, Zhao Wei, Zhao Ji!"

"Hey, I want to have nine sons!"

"Hmph! Your Majesty..."

……

The 27th day of the twelfth lunar month in the fifth year of the Xifeng reign.

The cold blossoms rustle down, and the flat plains are all white.

Wende Hall.

On the steps of the imperial palace, Zhao Ceying sat upright, draped in a dragon robe, his gaze level with his arms outstretched.

Below it is the imperial altar.

A two-foot-long wooden chair stands here.

The young prince Zhao Shentou wore a seven-ridged floral crown, a sable-clothed turban, and gold and silver embroidered brushes on the crown. He wore a bright red robe embroidered with cloud and dragon patterns, adorned with jade pendants and ribbons, and black leather shoes.

Right now, it's sitting obediently in the chair.

“All officials, both inside and outside the government, may speak to me immediately,” Zhao Ceying said calmly.

"His Majesty!"

In a split second, Qi Heng strode out.

"Your Majesty's health is tied to the safety of the nation; how can you lightly face arrows and stones?"

"Emperor Gaozu of Han in ancient times was one of them."

"All right!"

On the steps of the imperial palace, Zhao Ceying shouted and resolutely said, "My mind is made up, do not try to persuade me any further."

Qi Heng's expression froze, and his words of advice were stuck in his throat.

Zhao Ceying glanced at them briefly, then surveyed the officials from top to bottom with a serious expression. He said in a deep voice, "The Liao and Xia kingdoms are both ambitious and have made unusual moves."

"I, the Emperor, intend to lead the army on a northern expedition!"

"On the third day of the first lunar month, the army was mobilized and marched north."

"By order, King Jing, Zhao Shen, shall oversee the state and administer the government, while Empress Xiang shall raise the young emperor."

"Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao, shall govern in his stead!"

Jiang Zhao frowned and took a step forward:
"Your Majesty, I will certainly not fail in your trust!"

……

(End of this chapter)