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

Chapter 116 Promotion Upon Returning from Disaster Relief

The debate within the Zichen Palace regarding the drought in Ruzhou failed to produce a concrete and feasible solution immediately.

All that was left were a few vague instructions such as "Instruct the Ministry of Revenue and the Transport Department to expedite fundraising" and "Order neighboring prefectures and counties to provide assistance."

After the court session ended, Han Zhongyan did not return to his office, but went directly to Baoci Palace to see Empress Dowager Xiang.

In the side hall, Han Zhongyan solemnly bowed to the figure behind the curtain.

"Your subject Han Zhongyan respectfully wishes the Empress Dowager good health."

"Han Qing, there's no need for such formality. Please sit." Empress Dowager Xiang's voice came through the gauze curtain, revealing little emotion. "Is there something important to report?"

"Your Majesty, regarding the events of today's court—this old minister is ashamed."

Empress Dowager Xiang, behind the curtain, remained silent for a moment before speaking slowly.

"Why do you say that, Han Qing? The course of Heaven is constant and cannot be stopped by human power. As for the disaster in Ruzhou, we should do our best. As for the trivial matters recorded in history, the innocent will be innocent and the guilty will be guilty. Why bother with them?"

Although Empress Dowager Xiang said this, there was a hint of annoyance in her tone.

Zhao Mingcheng's sharp rebuttal in court today, under the guise of "the historian's honest writing," was actually an attack on Minister Xu. It not only caused Han Zhongyan, Chen Guan, and others to lose face, but also, to some extent, challenged the appeasement policy she supported.

Emperor Huizong's obvious bias made Empress Dowager Xiang vaguely feel a subtle loss of control over the court.

Han Zhongyan carefully considered his words before continuing.

"Your Majesty, please understand. This old minister is not concerned with personal honor or disgrace. It is just that Zhao Mingcheng, as a former servant of the Prince's residence, has been favored by the Emperor and has been given an important position at a young age, wielding the power of history. This is already an extraordinary honor."

However, his early success and overly sharp tongue have led him to frequently criticize the court with accusations of malicious intent. If this continues, it may not be a good thing for the court.

Today, under the guise of compiling history, they are actually framing others; the officials are truly despicable—alas.

Han Zhongyan sighed, probably blaming Zhao Ji for his indulgence.

Behind the curtain, Empress Dowager Xiang unconsciously twirled her prayer beads.

She was well aware of the truth in Han Zhongyan's words.

Zhao Mingcheng was a capable and meritorious man, and he was also loyal to the emperor, which was why she admired him.

However, his overly sharp style of conduct clashed with the old party's senior officials, and his deep trust in the emperor made him a growing destabilizing factor in the court.

However, taking action against Zhao Mingcheng is easier said than done.

Her good son, Zhao Ji, regarded him as a trusted confidant and protected him several times. As the Empress Dowager, she could not openly clash with her son, whom she had just installed, for the sake of a mere subject.

"Your Majesty is young, loyal, and mindful of past contributions. Zhao Mingcheng is indeed talented and has made great contributions to the Hehuang region," Empress Dowager Xiang said slowly, which was a defense of the emperor, but also pointed out the current predicament.

Han Zhongyan could tell that the Empress Dowager was already interested, but because of the Emperor, she could not take direct action.

He lowered his voice.

"Your Majesty, this old minister has a plan that may satisfy both sides."

"Oh? Tell me, Han Qing."

"Isn't there currently an unresolved matter concerning disaster relief in Ruzhou?"

Han Zhongyan stroked his beard, his tone becoming deep and serious.

"Disaster relief and comforting the people is a major local policy, involving many complexities and cannot be accomplished without capable individuals who are knowledgeable in practical matters and can coordinate various parties."

Zhao Mingcheng is both highly talented and trusted by the Emperor; why not entrust him with this responsibility? Appoint him as the Disaster Relief and Pacification Commissioner of the Northwest Circuit of the Capital, with full authority to handle drought matters in Ruzhou and neighboring prefectures.

Han Zhongyan observed the movements behind the curtain and continued.

"This move has several advantages. First, disaster relief is an urgent matter, and sending a close minister of the emperor shows the importance the court attaches to it. The Empress Dowager and the emperor's benevolence can also reassure the disaster victims."

Secondly, if Zhao Mingcheng truly possesses talent and can properly handle the disaster and stabilize the region, it is due to the Empress Dowager's wisdom and ability to recognize and appoint capable individuals, and it is also the duty of her subject; his merits naturally deserve reward. Thirdly—”

"If Zhao Mingcheng is merely a figurehead, or if he is young and impetuous and mishandles the situation, failing to quell the famine and instead causing public resentment to boil over, or even triggering unforeseen events—then his fault is obvious, and when that time comes to punish him, the officials will have nothing to say."

Moreover, after this incident, Zhao Mingcheng may have realized the difficulties of local government affairs, and it is possible that he will subsequently tone down his ambitions. This is a calculated move, where both advancement and retreat are well-controlled.

Han Zhongyan's plan can be described as shrewd and cunning.

This moved Zhao Mingcheng from his relatively detached position as a historian and close advisor to the front lines of concrete, complex, and error-prone disaster relief work.

If he succeeds, it will be because the Empress Dowager and the court made the right choice in appointing him; if he fails, it will provide a legitimate reason to reprimand or even punish him.

Moreover, since it was done under the guise of "re-employment" and "experience," even if the emperor was unwilling, it would be difficult for him to find a sufficient reason to refuse.

After a moment's thought, he nodded slightly to the Empress Dowager.

"Han Qing's suggestion is a wise and experienced plan for governing the country. Let us proceed accordingly. As for the Emperor, I will explain the situation to him."

"Your Majesty is wise." Han Zhongyan bowed.

That afternoon, Zhao Ji was summoned to Baoci Palace.

Upon hearing his mother's suggestion to appoint Zhao Mingcheng as the disaster relief and pacification commissioner of the Northwest Circuit of Jingzhou, Zhao Ji's first reaction was to frown.

"Mother, disaster relief is a complex and multifaceted matter, and this is not the same as waging war in the Hehuang region."

Although Zhao Mingcheng has made some achievements in border affairs, he is probably not good at civil administration, finance, or pacifying displaced people. Moreover, he holds an important official position and is currently compiling history.

Emperor Huizong of Song tried to politely decline, instinctively feeling that the matter was inappropriate, as if it were a trap set by the old party for Zhao Mingcheng.

Empress Dowager Xiang sat behind the curtain, her voice calm.

"Your Majesty, it is precisely because of his meritorious service in border affairs that his abilities have been demonstrated. Compiling history is important, but at present, hundreds of thousands of disaster victims are in need of relief. Which is more important?"

I do not object to Your Majesty's heavy reliance on former officials from your time as a prince. However, as a ruler, one should employ people according to their talents and abilities, and also give them more opportunities to hone their skills.

Zhao Mingcheng is young and needs to be tempered in hardship and adversity to become a pillar of the nation. This disaster relief effort is a good opportunity to test whether he truly possesses the talent for governance. The emperor always keeps him by his side, having him compile history and discuss policies; this is probably not the way for him to truly mature.

Then, the Empress Dowager spoke in a slightly somber tone, with an admonitory air.

"Furthermore, Zhao Mingcheng's previous historical writings caused a great uproar in the court, and the old ministers such as Han Xianggong were deeply troubled."

The Emperor ordered Zhao Mingcheng to go out and provide disaster relief. This would reassure the old minister, demonstrate the Emperor's selflessness, and provide him with an opportunity to earn merit. If he succeeds, the Emperor will further promote him. This is a win-win situation. Governing the country should prioritize the overall situation; how can personal relationships override public justice?

These words left Zhao Ji speechless. He opened his mouth, looking at his mother's blurry figure behind the gauze curtain, and felt a surge of frustration in his heart.

Emperor Huizong knew that this must have been due to Han Zhongyan and others speaking to the Empress Dowager, and that the Empress Dowager had been persuaded.

If he were to forcefully oppose it again, not only would he displease the Empress Dowager and solidify his reputation for "abandoning public duty for private gain" and "favoring his close advisors," but he might also put Zhao Mingcheng in an even more dangerous situation, causing him to refuse to serve the country.

You can't wear this hat.

In the end, Zhao Ji could only give a reluctant reply.

"Your Majesty's teachings are correct. Your son will obey Your Majesty's decree."

After leaving Baoci Palace, Zhao Ji immediately ordered someone to summon Zhao Mingcheng to the palace. This time, it was not in a side hall, but next to the goldfish pond in his usual inner garden.

When Zhao Mingcheng arrived, he saw Zhao Ji leaning alone on the railing, gazing at the withered lotus in the pond, looking displeased. He had already guessed what was going on.

After Zhao Mingcheng bowed, Zhao Ji dismissed his attendants and told him about the Empress Dowager's decision to appoint him as the Disaster Relief and Pacification Commissioner of Northwest Beijing Circuit, his tone displeased.

"Defu, this matter—it was that old scoundrel Han Zhongyan who spoke to Mother, saying that you should go out and hone your skills to serve the country!"

Hmph, it's clear they see you've secured your position in the court, and they can't do anything to you with the matter of the historical record, so they want to take this opportunity to transfer you out of Bianjing and throw you into that famine-stricken land!

Disaster relief is such a difficult task! The slightest mistake would be a grave offense! They've dug a pit for you, waiting for you to fall in! I—I wanted to refuse on your behalf, but the Empress Dowager—alas!

As Zhao Ji spoke, he angrily slammed his fist on the railing by the pool, filled with helplessness.

Zhao Mingcheng listened quietly, his face showing little surprise.

After Zhao Ji finished speaking, he remained calm and composed, and cupped his hands in greeting.

"Your Majesty need not worry about this, nor need you blame yourself. I am willing to go to Ruzhou."

Zhao Ji was taken aback and turned to look at him.

"Defu, do you—do you understand the gravity of the situation? That place is in complete chaos right now, with starving people everywhere, incompetent local officials, and powerful figures hoarding goods and speculating! If things go wrong, you could be ruined!"

"I understand."

Zhao Mingcheng nodded, his gaze clear and calm.

"Precisely because I know how difficult it is, I should go even more. Your Majesty, since I returned from the Hehuang region, I have entered the Imperial Academy and have some knowledge of important matters of the court and border strategies."

However, my knowledge of the true conditions of the people in the local prefectures and counties of my Great Song Dynasty, the operation of the clerks and officials, and the accumulated problems of money, grain, and criminal law is ultimately limited to written reports and memorials, and I know very little about them.

"This disaster in Ruzhou has been an excellent opportunity for me to gain a deeper understanding of local governance and the hardships of the people. Some things and some problems cannot be fully grasped without being there. I truly need such a trial."

Zhao Mingcheng did not complain or fear difficulties at all; on the contrary, he regarded it as a rare opportunity to learn and practice.

This magnanimity and insight moved and impressed Emperor Huizong, and the resentment in his heart dissipated considerably.

"Defu—" Zhao Ji was somewhat moved. "I am very pleased that you think this way. However, I absolutely cannot let you take this risk alone! They want to use this to control you, but I will give you enough authority to do it freely!"

A look of determination flashed in his eyes.

"This time, you are appointed as the Disaster Relief and Pacification Commissioner of Northwest Beijing Circuit. I grant you full authority to handle all disaster relief matters and the power to make decisions on an ad hoc basis!"

Any officials in the prefectures along the route who are negligent, shirk responsibility, obstruct relief efforts, or even embezzle or withhold funds, if they are below the fifth rank, you may arrest them first and report them for punishment; if they are above the fifth rank, you may also immediately detain them pending trial. I will take charge of all matters concerning the allocation of disaster relief funds and supplies, and the appointment of personnel.

All tasks are to be coordinated by you; there's no need to consult on every matter, lest you miss opportunities.

If you handle this well, I will have a good reason to promote you, and then the officials in the court will have nothing to say.

This granted Zhao Mingcheng almost the highest authority among imperial envoys, promising him a promotion upon his return after the mission was accomplished, demonstrating Zhao Ji's unwavering support.

Zhao Mingcheng took a step back and bowed deeply.

"Your Majesty's trust in me is so great; I, your humble servant, will do my utmost to repay Your Majesty's grace, to comfort the disaster victims, to stabilize the region, and to live up to Your Majesty's expectations!"

"Alright! I trust you!"

Zhao Ji helped him up and said again.

"The affairs on this journey are numerous and complex, and you alone may not be able to handle them all. I hereby grant you permission to select one or two capable officials to accompany you, to assist with documents and accounts, and to investigate the people's conditions. Do you have any suitable candidates?"

Zhao Mingcheng thought for a moment and said.

"I do have someone who recommends me."

Cao Fu, a corrector in the Secretariat, is a newly appointed Jinshi (successful candidate in the highest imperial examination) this year. He is diligent and concise in his writing, and also has some knowledge of money and criminal law.

I had the opportunity to work with him several times in the Secretariat, and observed that he was methodical, capable, and of upright character. If

"With His Majesty's gracious permission, he may be appointed as the clerk of the Disaster Relief and Pacification Commissioner's Office, accompanying me to assist in handling documents and auditing accounts."

Zhao Mingcheng's recommendation of Cao Fu was not entirely based on his impression of them working together.

He recalled that Cao Fu was known in history for his outspokenness and courage to remonstrate, and later became famous for submitting a memorial to dissuade Emperor Huizong from traveling incognito. He was an official with integrity and principles.

Such people are perfectly suited for disaster relief, a task requiring genuine dedication and resistance to corruption.

"Cao Fu? I have some impression of him. His writing is good. Since you think he is useful, it is approved."

Zhao Ji immediately agreed and continued.

"This journey is perilous, as this is a land of famine and prone to unrest. I will send Lu Zhang, the commander of the Palace Guard, with thirty elite imperial guards to accompany you and provide protection, at your command. Lu Zhang was a guard I had when I was still a prince; he is loyal and brave and can ensure your safety."

"Thank you, Your Majesty!"

Zhao Mingcheng thanked the emperor again.

He had accompanying officials, personal guards, the power to make decisions on the spot, and the emperor's complete trust. The road ahead might be difficult, but he was no longer afraid.

Ruzhou, a land ravaged by drought.

This will not only serve as a window for Zhao Mingcheng to gain a deeper understanding of this era, but will also become a platform for him to put his ideals into practice and accumulate more political capital.

This is a local stage.

The emperor and his minister then discussed some details in detail, such as how to deal with local officials, how to guard against powerful gentry, and how to obtain intelligence as quickly as possible.

As dusk deepened, Zhao Mingcheng finally took his leave of the palace.

This time, Zhao Mingcheng's battlefield has shifted from the high halls of power to the far reaches of the martial world.