Wei and Jin did not submit to Zhou

Chapter 211 Next Stop: The Emperor

He was busy until well past midnight, and when dawn broke, Sima Zhao got up from his bed in his study, feeling sore all over. It wasn't that he wanted to work at night, but rather that late spring had passed and early summer was approaching.

It's a bit hot during the day, but only at night can you feel a refreshing coolness and calm your mind.

Sima Zhao walked out of his study and happened to see Wang Yuanji walking in through the main gate of the palace. He noticed that she had a happy expression on her face, with a hint of languor and charm that was almost imperceptible; she seemed to be in a very good mood.

"Did something good happen to Madam at Wang Kai's house?"

Sima Zhao asked nonchalantly, yawning.

Recalling what happened last night, Wang Yuanji's expression became somewhat unnatural, but she still casually said, "I went to Baima Temple yesterday to pray for my son, and my heart was at peace."

"Madam, you should also choose a dress. Have a tailor come to the manor today, as the autumn harvest will be the founding ceremony."

Sima Zhao leaned close to Wang Yuanji and whispered instructions, but he noticed a strange fragrance emanating from her.

Those must be spices from the Western Regions; they're very strong.

"Did you use incense, Madam?"

Sima Zhao asked curiously.

Wang Yuanji took off the sachet from her waist, handed it to Sima Zhao, and smiled without saying anything.

"Yes, Madam, please go and make the preparations. I need to go and inspect Luoyang Palace now."

Sima Zhao yawned again, waved to Wang Yuanji, and then left with two attendants.

After he left, Wang Yuanji finally breathed a sigh of relief; her heart had been pounding in her chest!
Last night's madness has made her sink deeper and deeper.

When Wang Yuanji returned to her bedroom, she recalled the events that had occurred during this time, feeling as if it were a dream, something unbelievable.

The passionate kisses, the tender embraces, the soaring of the soul, and the sweet words Sima Zhao could never utter in his lifetime—all of these completely captivated Wang Yuanji.

Sigh, if only I could be twenty years younger!

Wang Yuanji sighed softly, and the hatred she felt for Yang Huiyu completely dissipated.

Now, Xigou has been arranged by Wang Yuanji to enter Baima Temple and become a "staying monk" with the Dharma name "Huikong".

To ensure that Xigou would serve her without worry, Wang Yuanji used the excuse of listening to Buddhist teachings to bring Xigou to her younger brother Wang Kai's house, where he would serve her, the queen, all night long.

Even if my younger brother knew I was having an affair with a monk at the temple, he wouldn't say anything, much less spread it around. This was much safer than having an affair in the Prince of Jin's mansion, and I could also get away from my attendants.

In a safe place, Wang Yuanji indulged herself without restraint, enjoying herself to the extreme!
On the other side, when Sima Zhao entered Luoyang Palace and arrived at the western armory, he suddenly remembered the time when Cao Mao raided the General's mansion.

I'm a little annoyed!

If it weren't for Cao Mao, he would have changed dynasties long ago! Just like Cao Pi back then!
Sima Zhao looked at Wang Hun, who was attending him, and asked, "What did the Emperor say?"

The question seemed abrupt, but Wang Hun clearly knew what Sima Zhao was asking.

"The emperor didn't say much."

Wang Hun replied, and seeing Sima Zhao's face instantly darken, he quickly explained, "It seems the Emperor doesn't want to be the villain."

"Doesn't he want to?"

Sima Zhao pondered for a moment, seemingly understanding Wang Hun's meaning.

Cao Huan was like a rag doll being kneaded, not resisting any of Sima Zhao's actions, and appeared extremely obedient.

However, everyone has their bottom line.

Cao Huan accepted the first two resignations without hesitation because he knew Sima Zhao would never accept them. But the third time was different; if he resigned this time, it would be for real.

Whether he wanted to bargain or was worried about being infamous for eternity, Cao Huan was unwilling to compromise so easily for the third time.

This is actually easy to understand. Even people who sell themselves want to get a good price. Nobody wants to be taken advantage of for free!
If Sima Zhao wanted Cao Huan to compromise, he couldn't resort to threatening suicide. He could simply follow Cao Mao's example and die, ending everything together.

At that point, what could Sima Zhao do? So this matter was indeed troublesome.

"I know."

Sima Zhao nodded, feeling somewhat displeased.

Was Wang Hun incapable of persuading Cao Huan? Not at all; he was simply concerned about his reputation.

As for whether he would be given an important position by Sima Zhao, Wang Hun felt that it was fine either way, since Sima Zhao was old and in poor health anyway.

After Sima Yan ascended the throne, what was rightfully his would still be his.

"Just back off."

Sima Zhao waved his hand dismissively, sending Wang Hun away. Since the matter hadn't been handled well, it was only right to teach the other party a lesson.

After touring the vast Luoyang Palace, Sima Zhao's mood improved; this would soon be the place where he issued orders!
Next stop, the Emperor!

Cao Huan's struggles are irrelevant; just name a price for him.

Sima Zhao remained completely unperturbed.

As Sima Zhao left Luoyang Palace through the magnificent Yunlong Gate, he felt as if he were inspecting his new home, extremely happy!

Upon returning to the Prince of Jin's residence, he summoned Wei Fan, the Prince of Jin's personal physician, to treat him.

After taking Sima Zhao's pulse, Wei Fan smiled and said, "Prince Jin's health has recovered well, but he is a little tired. He should still take care of his health in the future."

His words were half true and half false.

The so-called recovery is merely a return to normalcy from the state of acute illness, not an improvement in physical health; it's just a face-saving remark.

But it is absolutely true that you should pay attention to rest on weekdays.

"By the way, how is the Princess Consort's health?"

Sima Zhao recalled this incident and casually asked a question.

"The princess looks very well and is fine."

Wei Fan said with a smile.

Sima Zhao suddenly remembered something, leaned closer, and asked in a low voice, "Is the Princess Consort pregnant?"

Wang Yuanji had been away from him for a long time since leaving Luoyang, and Sima Zhao only mentioned it as a precaution.

These days, the mansions of powerful families are in great disarray, and even Sima Zhao has to be wary.

After all, he was already past his prime. It was understandable that Wang Yuanji would seek solace in a wild man, and as long as she didn't become pregnant, Sima Zhao could keep the matter a secret.

However, Wei Fan replied with a strange expression:
"Your Highness, I have examined the Princess's pulse, and she is not currently pregnant. Moreover, given her age, I would advise that it is best for her not to conceive."

If Your Highness desires many children and abundant blessings, it would be best to seek other methods. Although the Princess Consort's health is still good, she cannot withstand the strain of childbirth.

Wei Fan completely misunderstood; he thought Sima Zhao and Wang Yuanji were trying to conceive.

"Alas, my wife and I have had many children who died young."

Sima Zhao sighed and shook his head in disappointment.

It was not appropriate for outsiders to comment on such matters, so Wei Fan could only bow and take his leave.

Sima Zhao's regret came and went quickly; upon learning that Wang Yuanji was not pregnant, he was relieved.

In the evening, Sima Zhao was in his study reading the "ritual procedures" sent by Zheng Chong. The long scroll of silk contained instructions on how to organize the founding ceremony.

From Cao Huan's abdication to Sima Zhao's "receiving" of the Nine Tripods and ascending the throne, to the sacrifices to Heaven and the ancestral temple, and so on.

There is a whole set of complicated rules that must be strictly followed.

Sima Zhao was having a headache just looking at this!

This is such a damn hassle!
Sima Zhao cursed inwardly, but unfortunately he had no right to refuse. This could be considered a "happy trouble".

Just then, a servant gently pushed open the door and whispered to Sima Zhao, "Your Highness, Shi Bao has returned."

"Please!"

Sima Zhao quickly ordered someone to invite Shi Bao in. This time, Shi Bao's stay in Huainan was very short; he barely had time to settle in before Sima Zhao summoned him back to Luoyang to report on his duties.

This is truly unusual!
Of course, both he and Sima Zhao were fully aware of this, and there was no need to say anything more. Shi Bao entered the study, bowed to Sima Zhao, and then knelt before the desk.

"Last time, with the help of your adopted son Shi Shouxin, I was able to narrowly defeat that old fox Sima Fu."

Sima Zhao smiled at Shi Bao.

"That's because Your Highness is blessed by Heaven, it has little to do with me."

Shi Bao said with a humble expression.

After the pleasantries, it's time to get down to business.

Sima Zhao didn't beat around the bush. He put away his smile and said seriously, "The country is about to be founded, but there's a troublesome matter I don't know..."

"Your Highness, please speak frankly. I will do my best."

Shi Bao bowed to Sima Zhao.

Sima Zhao nodded and said, "The emperor still has doubts about the abdication. Can you persuade him?"

"This... Your subordinate obeys."

Shi Bao accepted the task without any bargaining.

“Yes, there is a vacancy for the Right Guard General of the Imperial Guard. Sima Wang was originally in charge of the position, but he was killed for treason. You will take over.”

Sima Zhao revealed his ultimate goal: to bring Shi Bao back to ensure the safety of Luoyang during the founding ceremony.

Of course, this is also a test.

His order for Shi Bao to return to Luoyang from Huainan was inherently unreasonable.

If Shi Bao doesn't return, then he's plotting a rebellion. After the founding of the country, we can just find a pretext to kill him.

If he returns, it will prove that this old minister has no disloyal intentions and can be entrusted with important matters.

This is similar to how Sima Fu could trust Shi Shouxin when he caused trouble. This was because Shi Shouxin's troops were not in Luoyang, and he entered the fray alone to demonstrate his loyalty.

If Shi Shouxin's troops had been in Luoyang at the time, Sima Zhao might not have been able to trust him, and the same logic applies to Shi Bao.

As long as Shi Bao obeys and comes to Luoyang, Sima Zhao will trust him completely.

"Anything else?"

Sima Zhao, seeing that Shi Bao had not left, asked with a puzzled expression.

There must be something wrong if they don't leave.

Shi Bao smiled wryly and said, "Your Highness, my son Shi Chong is getting too close to the Crown Prince. Could Your Highness transfer him away from Luoyang and give him a post elsewhere?"

It's extremely rare, if not unprecedented, for a father to betray his son like this.

However, Sima Zhao still understood the unspoken meaning in Shi Bao's words.

Regardless of anything else, Sima Yan is now only the heir apparent, and nothing more. In matters of state, Sima Zhao still holds the final say.

In the future, Sima Zhao will be the emperor, and Sima Yan will only be the crown prince. In terms of political affairs, Sima Zhao will still have the final say.

Now that Shi Chong is so eager to jump out and take sides so early, what will Sima Zhao think when he sees this?
Rather than watching Sima Zhao crush Shi Chong to death, it would be better to take the initiative to propose transferring him away from Luoyang to avoid bringing trouble to the family.

"What you said makes sense."

Sima Zhao nodded slightly.

"How about this, since the former governor of Yewang County was involved in a rebellion, let Shi Chong be appointed governor of Yewang County."

With a wave of his hand, Sima Zhao decided Shi Chong's future.

Although Sima Yan is the heir apparent, he, the Prince of Jin, is not dead yet! It wouldn't be bad to play it safe.

Transferring Shi Chong greatly weakened Sima Yan's ability to organize affairs in Luoyang, without damaging the foundation of his successor.

It must be said that Shi Bao's suggestion was good.

After seeing Shi Bao off, Sima Zhao lay on the couch in his study and fell into a deep sleep!
……

If Sima Zhao was dreaming of changing the dynasty in Luoyang, then Shi Shouxin in the Qingzhou government office was trapped in a nightmare of political intrigue.

During the day, he took a group of his trusted confidants, who were also the new officials in the Qingzhou governor's office, for a walk around the fields.

After I got back, I felt terrible.

Shi Shouxin discovered that, putting aside other places, there was a big problem in Linzi, the most populous city in Qingzhou: the farmers didn't know how to farm!

That's not farming, that's just messing around to make a living!

Whether they are large local farmers or tenant farmers, their farming skills are frighteningly low; they can't even do the most basic breeding and seed selection!

It was already night, and on the desk in the study of the government office, there was a series of bean seeds, numbering in the dozens, including at least fifteen varieties of soybeans alone!
"Do the farmers know that the beans they are growing are not the same variety?"

Shi Shouxin looked at Li Liang and asked.

"They probably don't know, but we do."

Li Liang sighed. "The agricultural technology in Qingzhou is far behind that of Luoyang."

Take soybeans as an example.

Traveling throughout the surrounding villages, soybeans are a crucial substitute for staple crops during non-staple seasons. Logically, given the limited land area outside Linzi, shouldn't all crops with the same name as soybeans be essentially the same?
Shi Shouxin originally thought so too, but after taking a walk around, he realized that if all the soybeans were laid out together, they could be ranked from Xi Shi to Dong Shi, with both beauty and flaws! There were at least ten varieties, not to mention the ones they hadn't found yet.

These beans on the table are all called soybeans, but just like the differences between people, many of them seem like other species!

From a professional perspective, this is a "subspecies," meaning it doesn't share the same biological parents.

From Shi Shouxin's perspective from his previous life, one could directly conclude that the farmers here simply do not know how to farm, or rather, their so-called "ability" is extremely primitive—almost equivalent to complete incompetence.

At the very least, farmers in a region should use the best-quality subspecies adapted to the local climate and soil as seeds to ensure a good harvest.

But that's not the case here. Everyone is just focused on farming and doesn't care about anything else. Even those who know about breeding only do it on their own small plots of land.

How many generations would it take to find the best among the worst?

"My lord, let's put aside the matter of quelling the various rebellions in Qingzhou for now and get things sorted out in the fields first."

Otherwise, even military rations wouldn't be guaranteed.

Li Liang advised.

"That's all it can do."

Shi Shouxin nodded, suppressing his anger.

Farmers weren't born incapable of farming; it's just that the war caused them to lose their agricultural knowledge. To truly make a difference in Qingzhou, grain breeding alone is a major undertaking that cannot be taken lightly.

Not to mention other things.

"My lord, now we have Qingzhou, and the King of Qi can protect us. Just thinking about it, our future is limitless."

It's just a minor difficulty now, but things will definitely improve in a year, and it will be greatly resolved in three years.

You're still so young, you have plenty of time.

Li Liang continued to persuade him, and he certainly hit the nail on the head.

Shi Shouxin has plenty of time, though. It's just breeding; once things are sorted out, everything will be fine.

"Thank you for your kind words, but unfortunately ten thousand years is too long. We must seize the day."

Shi Shouxin sighed softly.

Li Liang and the others probably thought Sima Zhao could live a long time, and they were completely unaware that the so-called "Turtle Rebellion" was not a disaster they would never see in their lifetime.

Those damn things are actually very close. Who knows, before long, the flames of war might be at our doorstep.

Shi Shouxin's anxiety was beyond the comprehension of outsiders. He also had no way of telling others about these worries.

(End of this chapter)