I'll steal Gao Qiu's life and lead the Song Dynasty to prosperity.

Chapter 104 The Emperor is My Backer

Zhang Dun returned to his hometown in glory, while Cai Jing was exiled to Danzhou.

The New Party faction suddenly lost its most prestigious leader and its most politically astute strategist, leaving it leaderless and in a state of panic.

Many officials who had previously been loyal to Zhang and Cai began to quietly observe and even secretly seek new avenues for advancement.

The balance of power in the court seems to be tilting in the direction that the Empress Dowager and Zeng Bu have hoped for.

However, the adjustment of power has never stopped.

On this day, Empress Dowager Xiang summoned Zhao Ji to Baoci Palace.

Behind the curtain, Empress Dowager Xiang's voice was gentle.

"Your Majesty, Zhang Dun has already left the capital, leaving the position of prime minister vacant. The Secretariat, the Chancellery, and the Censorate all need capable people to fill the vacancy."

At the beginning of a new dynasty, it is necessary to demonstrate fairness to the world, maintain a balance in the political situation, and recruit talented individuals.

After much deliberation, I believe that some former officials, such as Han Zhongyan, Fan Chunli, Chen Guan, and Zou Hao, are all loyal and talented men. Although they may have left office due to political disagreements, their hearts remain with the nation. Now, with the new dynasty in full swing, it would be wise to recall them to court and appoint them according to their abilities. This would not only demonstrate the Emperor's magnanimity but also bring about a court filled with upright officials.”

The Empress Dowager paused for a moment, then explained in detail.

"Han Zhongyan is calm and tolerant. I believe that he can first serve as the Vice Minister of the Chancellery to familiarize himself with government affairs, and then take over as the prime minister to command the three provinces."

Fan Chunli is well-versed in classical texts and is upright and outspoken; he is suitable to serve as Minister of Rites. Chen Guan and Zou Hao are of noble character and have a long-standing reputation for integrity; they are suitable to serve as Right Remonstrator and Left Censor, respectively, to supplement the court's affairs and uphold justice. What does Your Majesty think?

Emperor Huizong sat outside the curtain, listening to Empress Dowager Xiang's arrangements one by one, but his heart skipped a beat.

Han Zhongyan?

He knew this man; he was Han Qi's son, and indeed had a good reputation. Although he belonged to the old party, he was a gentle person.

If he were to succeed Zhang Dun, at least he wouldn't be as outspoken and obstructive as Zhang Dun, and he might even be able to get along peacefully with Zeng Bu.

Although Zhao Ji found this somewhat sudden, it was not unacceptable, as it was necessary to balance the old and new forces in the court.

But—Fan Chunli?

Emperor Huizong's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly.

Fan Chunli was the son of Fan Zhongyan. He inherited his father's upright character and was known among the old party for his toughness and straightforwardness.

Emperor Huizong of Song still clearly remembered that during the reign of Emperor Zhezong, Fan Chunli had a heated debate with Zeng Bu in front of all the officials in the court because of their differing political views. Fan Chunli was sharp-tongued and unyielding, leaving Zeng Bu speechless for a moment.

If such a formidable figure were brought back to serve as Minister of Rites, in charge of the nation's etiquette and education, the imperial examinations, and the selection of officials, and were to serve alongside Zeng Bu in the same court—

He could almost foresee the endless arguments and attacks that would ensue at future court meetings.

Emperor Huizong of Song disliked conflict and hated trouble. Just thinking about that scene made his scalp tingle.

Chen Guan and Zou Hao were also well-known remonstrating officials in the old party, known for their courage in criticizing current affairs and impeaching ministers.

Placing them in important positions such as Right Remonstrator and Left Advisor would be like putting several tight reins on our heads.

If I want to do something convenient in the future, or have some outrageous preferences, won't I be immediately overwhelmed by the memorials from these "upright officials"?

Emperor Huizong was unwilling, and his face unconsciously showed a troubled expression.

Although Empress Dowager Xiang behind the curtain could not see his expression, she seemed to understand his thoughts. Her voice remained gentle, yet she exuded the authority of a mother.

"Your Majesty, I know what you are thinking."

The way to rule lies in checks and balances. Both the new and old factions are ministers of the state. If only one side is supported, it is easy to breed arrogance and spoiling, which is not a long-term solution.

Han and Fan, among others, have always enjoyed high prestige; employing them would appease the old faction and demonstrate the court's impartiality. Moreover, with the Empress Dowager present, the court will certainly not spiral out of control. The Emperor's recent ascension to the throne is precisely the time to demonstrate benevolence, openness to advice, and inclusiveness.

It sounds nice, but Empress Dowager Xiang had her own selfish motives.

The people she just mentioned are all former members of the Yuan You faction.

Why did the Empress Dowager specifically request these people?

Because she lacked a powerful maternal family, military power, and a team she had cultivated herself.

The ministers of the New Party were all left behind by King Cheoljong, and they would not listen to her at all.

Who can she rely on?

There is only one type of people: the Yuan You Old Party, who were persecuted the most by Emperor Zhezong and Zhang Dun, hated the New Party the most, were most grateful to Empress Dowager Gao, and were most willing to be loyal to her.

These people constituted the core of Empress Dowager Xiang's rule.

Emperor Huizong opened his mouth, wanting to say something, but found that any rebuttal might be interpreted by Empress Dowager Xiang as "narrow-minded" and "intolerant".

He thought of his throne; if it weren't for Empress Dowager Xiang's strong support, it probably wouldn't have fallen into his hands.

Empress Dowager Xiang had not only supported his ascension to the throne but also nurtured him.

Her intentions were something Emperor Huizong found difficult to disobey.

In the end, Zhao Ji could only suppress his reluctance and worries about future court disputes, and bowed to the curtain.

"Your Majesty's thoughts are thorough and your words are absolutely correct. Your son—in accordance with Your Majesty's decree, will summon Han Zhongyan, Fan Chunli, Chen Guan, Zou Hao and others back to court to resume their duties."

"I am very pleased that Your Majesty thinks this way."

The Empress Dowager's voice conveyed satisfaction.

After leaving Baoci Palace, Zhao Ji felt as if a heavy stone was pressing on his heart.

The composure he had feigned in front of the Empress Dowager had now turned into restlessness and unease.

Damn it, being an official is really tough.

Emperor Huizong wandered aimlessly through the palace for a while, then suddenly stopped and said to Liang Shicheng, who was following behind him.

"Go, summon Defu to the palace, to the rear pavilion of the Chuigong Hall."

At this moment, Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) desperately needed someone who could fully understand him, listen to his troubles, and share his burdens.

This person could only be Zhao Mingcheng.

-

When Zhao Mingcheng received the imperial decree, he was in the small but quiet duty room of the Secretariat, flipping through a pile of historical documents. This was his daily work: compiling history.

Upon hearing the emperor's urgent summons, Zhao Mingcheng put down his pen, straightened his clothes, and entered the palace.

The rear pavilion of the Chuigong Hall was where the emperor rested during breaks from handling state affairs. Its furnishings were elegant, but not as imposing as those of the main hall.

Emperor Huizong dismissed all the servants, leaving only Zhao Mingcheng.

He lay sprawled on the couch, his brows furrowed, a far cry from the relaxed demeanor he usually maintained in front of Zhao Mingcheng.

"Defu, you've arrived. Alas—there's something I must tell you." Upon seeing him, Zhao Ji immediately sat up straight, his tone full of distress. "The Empress Dowager summoned me today and spoke of a very important matter—"

Emperor Huizong recounted to the Empress Dowager his plan to recall Han Zhongyan, Fan Chunli, and others to the capital and entrust them with important responsibilities. He also poured out his reluctance, his fear of Fan Chunli and the others, and his worries about the possibility of renewed factional strife in the court.

Finally, Zhao Ji let out a long sigh.

"Han Zhongyan is alright, he's a nice guy. But Fan Chunli, you don't know, he used to argue with Chancellor Zeng in court until they were red in the face, he's known for his uprightness!"

And then there are Chen Guan and Zou Hao, both notoriously sharp-tongued; they'll nag endlessly over the slightest thing! Bringing them back and placing them in such crucial positions as the Ministry of Rites and the Censorate—how will I be able to hold court from now on? My peaceful days are probably over!

As Zhao Ji spoke, he became increasingly frustrated and stood up, pacing back and forth in the pavilion.

"That's not all. What I'm most worried about is that these people are all staunch old clique members who have always harbored resentment towards the restoration of the new laws."

They're back, controlling the Ministry of Rites and the channels of communication. Will they dredge up old grievances? Will they attack the policies of my father (Emperor Shenzong) and elder brother (Emperor Zhezong)? Even—even—will someone secretly criticize my ascension to the throne—”

This is what Zhao Ji was most worried about.

He worried that if these old party members returned, they would attack the legitimacy of his succession to the throne.

After all, Zhao Ji succeeded his brother, and he had the support of the Empress Dowager and some ministers of the New Party, so he was not without controversy.

The most frightening thing is that if these people were to control the writing of history and public opinion, they could use their pens to smear the new law and even influence future generations' evaluation of him.

Thinking of this, Zhao Ji suddenly stopped and looked at Zhao Mingcheng, his face showing a hint of regret and apology.

"By the way, Defu, speaking of this, I—I feel a little sorry for you."

Zhao Mingcheng had been listening quietly, and at this moment he slightly raised his head.

"Why does Your Majesty say such a thing?"

"Sigh, isn't it all because I arranged this job for you?"

Zhao Ji pointed at Zhao Mingcheng, his tone annoyed and full of regret.

"I originally thought this was a prestigious and important position, where you could compile history, chat with me occasionally, play football, and discuss calligraphy and painting."

But now, looking at your position, it seems you're about to become the center of controversy!

Fan Chunli is in charge of the Ministry of Rites, and Chen and Zou Hao are in charge of the channels of public opinion. If they want to make a fuss about the new laws, old matters, or even—even about my succession—your position as historian will be the first to bear the brunt! I've put you in the eye of the storm!

Zhao Ji truly felt apologetic, realizing that his initial good intentions might have caused Zhao Mingcheng a great deal of trouble.

Seeing Zhao Ji's genuine regret and worry, Zhao Mingcheng suddenly stood up from his seat.

Upon entering the pavilion, Zhao Mingcheng, facing Zhao Ji, adjusted his robes and belt and solemnly performed a grand salute.

"Defu, what are you doing?"

"6

Zhao Ji was taken aback.

Zhao Mingcheng raised his head, his gaze clear and firm, looking directly at Zhao Ji, his voice steady, each word clear and distinct.

"Your Majesty, your subject is not afraid to stand at the forefront of the storm."

Zhao Mingcheng paused slightly, gathered his thoughts, and then spoke slowly.

"I know nothing of the New Party, nor of the Old Party."

"All I know is that I am a former servant of Your Majesty from when you were still a prince, and it is thanks to Your Majesty's promotion that I have achieved what I have today."

"As for my background, I passed the imperial examination in the third year of the Yuanfu era and was a student of the Emperor."

"If we're talking about a mentor, Your Majesty is my mentor!"

"In the second year of Yuanfu, I went to the Hehuang region as a commoner, thanks to the trust and confidence of the late emperor; in the third year of Yuanfu, I was granted a position in the Imperial Academy and appointed as a Gentleman of the Palace, thanks to the emperor's selection and promotion!"

"If we're talking about backers, the Emperor is my backer."

"If we're talking about allies, I'm merely one of Your Majesty's subjects!"

(Zhao Mingcheng, Da Song Non-stick Pan)

These words, spoken calmly yet with resounding force, echoed in the silent rear chamber.

Without any grand pronouncements or specific evaluations of the factional struggles, Zhao Mingcheng clearly defined his position: he was loyal only to Emperor Zhao Ji, and his honor, disgrace, advancement, and retreat depended solely on the emperor.

For Zhao Mingcheng, the distinction between the new party and the old party was meaningless.

As Zhao Ji listened intently, looking into Zhao Mingcheng's open, clear, and unadulterated eyes, the resentment he felt due to the Empress Dowager's arrangements and his anxiety and worry about the future were miraculously soothed by these words.

A surge of emotion and warmth welled up in his heart, making his nose tingle.

This is Defu!

Always know what he needs most, and always give him the strongest support!

All the factional strife and disputes seemed less frightening in the face of Defu's pure "loyalty to his country" mentality.

"Defu—" Zhao Ji's voice was a little choked up. He patted Zhao Mingcheng's shoulder hard, and all his words turned into a sigh.

Zhao Mingcheng smiled slightly, his tone softening as he offered words of comfort.

"Your Majesty, in my opinion, regardless of whether they are from the New Party or the Old Party, they are all subjects of our Great Song Dynasty. They have all learned the ways of the sages and what they seek is nothing more than national peace and prosperity."

The endless disputes stem mostly from differing stances and opinions. If the ruler could demonstrate impartiality and guide the two factions skillfully, allowing them to complement each other like two wheels of a cart or two wings of a bird, working together to assist a wise ruler, wouldn't that be far better than mutual attacks and endless internal strife?

Zhao Mingcheng changed the subject, bringing up his personal matters, and his tone became more relaxed.

"It is quite a coincidence that Your Majesty may already know that I am engaged to the daughter of Li Gefei, the Assistant Minister of Rites."

My father was a member of the New Party, a fact Your Majesty is well aware of; while my father-in-law, Lord Li, is a member of the Old Party's faction of upright officials.

Zhao Ji was indeed drawn to the attention, temporarily setting aside his worries, and exclaimed in surprise.

"Oh? Li Gefei's daughter? Is she Li Qingzhao, the renowned female historian from the capital?"

Emperor Huizong of Tang had heard of Li Qingzhao's talent.

"That's right." Zhao Mingcheng nodded.

"Your Majesty, you see, my family belongs to the new faction, while my in-laws belong to the old faction. Yet we are now to become related by marriage, and from now on we will be one family."

The new and the old are not necessarily clearly divided or irreconcilable. I would like to use the marriage alliance between the Zhao and Li families as proof that the new and the old factions can coexist peacefully and serve Your Majesty together.

If all the ministers in the court could set aside their differences between the old and new factions, like my family and relatives by marriage, and prioritize national affairs and the Emperor, then a peaceful and prosperous court would be just around the corner.

Zhao Mingcheng's words subtly elevated the private marriage to a political symbolism, effectively easing Zhao Ji's anxiety about factional strife.

Zhao Ji's eyes lit up as he listened, and he nodded repeatedly.

"Well said! Defu, with a minister like you, with such an exemplary role model, what do I have to fear from the factional strife between the old and new parties?"

He pressed on with great interest.

"By the way, Defu, when is your wedding date? I'll definitely prepare a generous gift for you!"

"Thank you for your great kindness, Your Majesty." Zhao Mingcheng replied with a smile, "My family and your wife's family have already discussed it and tentatively scheduled it for the end of this month."

""

"The end of the month? Good! I've got it!"

Zhao Ji clapped his hands, as if the gloomy atmosphere from before had been swept away, and he returned to his somewhat innocent and eager appearance.

"Defu, rest assured, I will definitely attend your wedding! Let those scheming officials in the court see that, in my eyes, there are no new or old factions, only loyal ministers and traitors!"

Seeing Zhao Ji's renewed spirits, Zhao Mingcheng thought to himself that the Empress Dowager's arrangements might bring some ripples, but they might not all be bad things.

At least, now that this pool of water has been stirred up, it remains to be seen who will seize the opportunity.

He had already clearly defined his position—the emperor's "minister."

As long as he holds onto this trust, whether the new party gains power or the old party returns to power, Zhao Mingcheng has enough space and confidence to realize his greater ambitions.