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

After Zhao Mingcheng withdrew from the Chuigong Pavilion.

His words still echoed in Zhao Xu's ears.

Zhao Mingcheng's views allowed Zhao Xu to see a deeper, more pressing problem that needed to be addressed.

It's not that there's a lack of talent in the imperial court.

However, these talented individuals are either trapped in factional strife, clinging to outdated rules and opinions, or eager for quick success.

There are very few people like Zhao Mingcheng who can break free from conventions and balance ideals with reality.

"Hao Sui," Zhao Xu suddenly spoke.

"This servant is here."

"Go, summon Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu to the Chuigong Hall immediately. I have important matters to discuss with you."

"Yes, everyone." Hao bowed and hurried away.

About fifteen minutes later, Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu entered the Chui Gong Hall one after the other.

Zhang Dun walked with a brisk pace, his brows bearing his usual coldness and solemnity.

Zeng Bu slowed down slightly, his expression calm and his gaze introspective.

"Your subject Zhang Dun (Zeng Bu) pays his respects to Your Majesty."

"Rise, gentlemen, and please take your seats." Zhao Xu gestured, and after the two sat down on the embroidered stools that had been prepared, he did not exchange many pleasantries and went straight to the point.

"Just now, I summoned Zhao Mingcheng for the third time to inquire about the Qingtang matter."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu were both slightly taken aback and quickly exchanged a glance.

Zhang Dun's eyes flashed with surprise and disapproval, as if he felt that it was frivolous for the emperor to discuss such important military and national affairs with a scholar.

Zeng Bu's eyes flickered slightly, as if deep in thought. The emperor's third summons to Zhao Mingcheng must have a deeper meaning.

Ignoring the subtle changes in their expressions, Zhao Xu clearly repeated the key points of Zhao Mingcheng's views on "expanding the border and stabilizing the border in parallel" and "the two crucial issues of the barbarian situation and the supply of provisions."

He spoke calmly, but his words clearly conveyed agreement.

After he finished speaking, the hall fell silent for a moment.

Zhang Dun stroked his long beard and pondered for a moment.

"Your Majesty, what this young man said... is not without insight. In particular, his theory on stabilizing the border is actually two sides of the same coin as what I said before, 'Consolidating Qinghai and advancing towards Huangshan.'"

Using barbarians to control barbarians, and dividing and weakening them, is a common tactic in military strategy. Since Xia Zheng has surrendered, using him to pacify his former followers will certainly save us military strength. As for provisions…

He paused, his brows furrowing slightly.

"It is only right to raise funds locally and sustain the war through war, but..."

He changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious.

"This strategy may seem comprehensive, but its implementation requires frontline commanders to adapt to local conditions and make on-the-spot decisions. It cannot be confined by a few scholarly essays from thousands of miles away."

Moreover, Wang Shan had long been stationed on the frontier and was well-versed in the affairs of the barbarians. Even if his actions were somewhat hasty, they were all for the sake of the war effort and to quickly pacify Qinghai.

If the imperial court were to impose such restrictive rules prioritizing "appeasement" and "stability," it might hinder their actions and cause them to miss crucial opportunities in the war.

Your Majesty, I still believe that the most important thing at present is to fully support King Zhan, strengthen the army, and deter the various barbarian tribes, so that Qinghai is as solid as a rock. Everything else can be dealt with gradually.

Zhang Dun still insisted on his basic position.

He believed that although Zhao Mingcheng's suggestion was good, it should not shake his support for Wang Shan, and he should not allow the "profound opinions" of the civil officials in the rear to interfere with the "on-the-spot decisions" of the generals at the front.

Zeng Bu waited until Zhang Dun finished speaking before slowly opening his mouth.

"What Prime Minister Zhang said is indeed a wise and experienced approach to governing the country, prioritizing the overall war situation. However,"

He looked at Zhao Xu, cupped his hands, and said...

"Your Majesty," I say, "I believe that Zhao Mingcheng's proposal is not only not impractical, but rather a pragmatic and insightful strategy. His concerns are precisely the foundation upon which General Wang Shan's defenses are 'impregnable'!"

He paused briefly, then proceeded to analyze the situation step by step.

"General Wang Shan was a skilled and courageous general. However, while a courageous general may be good at expanding territory, he may not be good at governing and pacifying.

This time, the conflict between Wang Shan and Wang Min, along with the various matters reported by Sun Lu, whether true or false, all indicate discord at the front lines, which is the first hidden danger.

The transportation of grain and provisions was extremely difficult, and the people's strength was exhausted. This was the second hidden danger.

The various Tibetan tribes outwardly surrendered but inwardly remained so; this is the third hidden danger.

Zhao Mingcheng's three strategies were precisely the right remedies. Supporting the blind to appease the local tribes would resolve the third hidden danger; implementing the grain purchase agreement and planning for military-agricultural colonies would alleviate the food shortage and resolve the second hidden danger.

The imperial court has clearly outlined its strategy of "stabilizing the borders," dispatching envoys to assist in managing affairs with the barbarians and ensuring food supplies. This may help reconcile the generals and alleviate potential threats. This is not intended to bind the generals, but rather to help them solidify their foundations, allowing them to focus on defense and offense. It is a mutually supportive relationship, not a mutual hindrance.

Zeng Bu affirmed Zhang Dun's core demand for prioritizing the front lines, and cleverly packaged Zhao Mingcheng's suggestion as a necessary measure to "assist the front lines and consolidate the foundation," elevating it to a strategic level.

Zhao Xu listened to the opinions of the two important ministers and couldn't help but nod.

He understood Zhang Dun's concerns: he feared that too much interference from the imperial court would dampen the morale of the front lines.

However, he agreed more with Zeng Bu's analysis.

This is precisely what Zhao Xu was worried about—Wang Shan might be able to conquer Qing Tang City, but if the rear is unstable and internal troubles arise, the city will eventually fall.

"What you two say makes sense."

Zhao Xu spoke slowly, his voice not loud.

"Wang Shan's contributions are undeniable, and the land of Qinghai must not be lost. But how can we ensure that it is not lost? Is it sufficient to rely solely on Wang Shan's army to defend it? The supply lines are long and difficult, and public resentment is growing. Is it sufficient? The barbarian tribes are constantly rebelling and raiding. Is it sufficient?"

His gaze swept over Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu.

"Zhao Mingcheng's viewpoint answered these three questions for me. He was not hindering Wang Shan, but rather filling the gaps and consolidating the foundation. My mind is made up. The Qinghai-Tibet strategy should be based on this and improved upon. Expanding the borders must be aggressive, and stabilizing the borders must be solid. Neither can be lacking."

Seeing that the emperor's attitude was clear and what he said was indeed reasonable, Zhang Dun remained silent for a moment, no longer strongly objecting, but simply said...

"Your Majesty's considerations are profound, and this old minister has no objection. However, the key to implementing such strategies lies in the people who carry them out on the front lines. If the wrong people are entrusted with the task, or if they are not of one mind with the King, and instead cause discord, then a good thing will turn into a bad thing."

Zeng Bu immediately responded.

"Lord Zhang's concerns are absolutely correct. The selection of the right person is of utmost importance. This person must be knowledgeable about the border situation, reasonable and resourceful, and possess the ability to mediate and coordinate. He must not only understand the court's profound intention of 'stabilizing the border,' but also be able to work harmoniously with generals such as Wang Shan, and effectively implement policies such as appeasement, grain procurement, and land reclamation."

Zhao Xu nodded, his gaze deep and thoughtful, as if he had already considered this matter.

"I observe that although Zhao Mingcheng is young, he possesses keen insight, thorough thinking, and impartiality, addressing matters objectively. His analysis of the situation with the barbarians and the grain supply is reasonable and well-founded, and I intend to..."

He paused for a moment, then announced his final decision.

"I intend to send Zhao Mingcheng to the Hehuang region under the pretext of 'observing the situation and providing advice,' to personally go to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Xihe region to conduct on-site investigations of the situation of the Tibetan tribes, investigate the possibility of grain transport and land reclamation, and assist the Military Affairs Department in implementing the court's policy of 'stabilizing the border.'"

"Your Majesty!"

Zhang Dun couldn't help but speak up.

"Zhao Mingcheng is a scholar. Although he is knowledgeable, he has never experienced the battlefield and frontier. If he is suddenly sent to a place where the flames of war have not yet been quelled, I am afraid... I am afraid he will not be able to handle this task."

Furthermore, his status as a mere student of the Imperial Academy is inconsistent with the established system and may invite public criticism.

Zhang Dun was worried that Zhao Mingcheng lacked ability and experience, and also felt that it was against the rules.

Zeng Bu was quickly calculating in his mind that the emperor's move, though seemingly abrupt, was actually quite meaningful.

Zhao Mingcheng was a person he admired. If he could take this opportunity to gain experience in border affairs and accumulate practical skills early on, he would surely become a great man in the future.

Moreover, Zhao Mingcheng's status is extraordinary; he is not part of the military system and is a commoner from a respectable family, making him perfectly suited to play the role of "Imperial Envoy and Inspector," mediating between generals and commanders and implementing the court's intentions.

As for the risks.

There are definitely risks involved, but fortune favors the bold.

Zeng Bu planned to seize this opportunity and also recommend another person.

"Lord Zhang," Zeng Bu said calmly.

"Your Majesty is wise and discerning. Although Zhao Mingcheng is young, his talent is evident to Your Majesty and your ministers."

Sending him to Qingtang was not to have him command troops in battle, but to use his clear vision and pragmatic thinking to help the court see the real situation and fill in any gaps.

He was a student of the Imperial Academy, without official rank, but could be temporarily assigned to tasks such as "handling official business" or "consultant in the Military Affairs Department," which posed no institutional hindrance. As for his safety…”

Zeng Bu turned to Zhao Xu, cupped his hands, and said,

"Your Majesty, since Zhao Mingcheng has been sent there, his security must be carefully considered. A team of elite guards should be carefully selected, and he should be accompanied by a calm, capable general who is knowledgeable about border affairs and the situation of the barbarians and can cooperate seamlessly with him. Only in this way can Zhao Mingcheng be safe and sound and can he be helped to carry out his mission."

Zhao Xu was very satisfied with Zeng Bu's support, which was also what he had hoped for.

He looked at Zhang Dun.

"Minister Zhang, what do you think of what Minister Zeng said? I trust Zhao Mingcheng's talent. As for his safety and the person to assist him, Minister Zeng's concerns are very valid. Do you have a suitable candidate to recommend?"

Seeing that the emperor's mind was made up and Zeng Bu had already said so much, Zhang Dun knew that if he continued to obstruct him, he would not only displease the emperor, but also appear petty.

He took a deep breath, suppressing his unease about the potential "variables" that Zhao Mingcheng might bring, and said in a deep voice.

"Since His Majesty has made his decision, this old minister will naturally obey. Privy Councilor Zeng's considerations are thorough; this old minister seconds his opinion. Regarding the selection of candidates..." He paused briefly.

"We can select one from among the various border generals of the Western Army who is steady, resourceful, and familiar with the situation of the barbarians."

Although Zhang Dun agreed, he only spoke in general terms and did not make any specific recommendations. He clearly did not want to get too involved in the matter and was willing to wait and see.

Zeng Bu immediately took over; he already had a target in mind.

"Your Majesty, I am reminded of someone, Liu Zhongwu, the current deputy general of Jingyuan Road. He comes from a military family, is young and resourceful, and is skilled in both civil and military affairs. He is especially good at negotiating with the tribes. He has been sent alone to negotiate with the tribes on many occasions, explaining the advantages and disadvantages, and has been successful many times. He is known as a 'scholar-general' in the Western Army."

"Having him as Zhao Mingcheng's assistant would allow him to serve as both a bodyguard and a facilitator in negotiations with the various tribes, making him a perfect match."

"Liu Zhongwu..."

Zhao Xu read the name aloud. He vaguely remembered it; he seemed to have seen it in the merit and demerit book of frontline generals, where the evaluation was quite good.

"Well, the person recommended by Minister Zeng is probably suitable. Let's settle this matter here. The specific titles, missions, and scale of the guard will be discussed in detail by the two ministers, the Privy Council, and the Ministry of War, and a plan should be put forward as soon as possible."

"Your Majesty, we obey." Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu replied in unison.

"Go ahead." Zhao Xu looked tired and waved his hand.

Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu bowed and took their leave, exiting the Chuigong Hall.

The two "old comrades" walked side by side, initially in silence.

Reaching a secluded spot under the corridor, Zhang Dun suddenly stopped, glanced at Zeng Bu, and said indifferently.

"Privy Councilor Zeng has a high opinion of Zhao Mingcheng. If this young man can truly succeed, Privy Councilor Zeng will surely have a keen eye for talent and deserve much credit."

The relationship between the two old men had deteriorated to the point that they no longer addressed each other by their courtesy names.

Zeng Bu gave a forced smile and said...

"You flatter me, Prime Minister Zhang. It is my duty to recommend talented people for the country. Whether this young man is truly worthy of great responsibility remains to be seen after his trip to Qingtang. However, I would like to remind you, Prime Minister Zhang, that you should continue to appease Wang Shan and prevent him from harboring any resentment."

Zhang Dun snorted, said no more, and quickly walked away.

……

That night, Zhang Dun returned to his study in the mansion, dismissed his attendants, pondered for a long time, and finally picked up his pen to write a secret letter to Wang Shan, who was far away in Xihe.

In the letter, he first reiterated the court's affirmation and support for Wang Shan's contributions.

At the same time, he warned Wang Shan to "avoid arrogance and impetuosity, restrain his behavior, treat his soldiers well, and be cautious in dealing with the barbarian tribes," and made it clear that "the emperor's will is set, and both expanding and stabilizing the borders are of equal importance." A "special envoy from the court" will be sent to assist in "pacifying the barbarians and procuring provisions," and he instructed him to "work together harmoniously with him to ensure the overall situation, and not to cause any discord or give others cause for criticism."

Although Zhao Mingcheng's name was not explicitly mentioned in the letter, the intention to remind and warn him was obvious.

This letter was not only for Wang Zhan's benefit, but also to add an extra layer of insurance for his own overall strategy of expanding the borders.

Almost at the same time.

Zeng Bu also wrote a personal letter to Liu Zhongwu, who was on Jingyuan Road, in his study.

In the letter, Zeng Bu mentioned that the court would send "young talents" to Qinghai, pointing out that this was an opportunity that "would win the emperor's favor and have a bright future."

Zeng Bu highly praised Liu Zhongwu's talent, saying, "At a time when the nation needs capable people, it is precisely the time that it requires a good general like you who is both literate and martial, and who is knowledgeable about the affairs of the barbarians."

He explicitly promised: "If this trip helps the special envoy properly pacify the barbarian tribes, alleviate their food shortages, stabilize Qinghai, and achieve outstanding merit, upon returning to the capital, I will certainly do my utmost to ensure your promotion to a full-fledged general before the Emperor!"

This letter not only entrusted Liu Zhongwu with an important task and promised him a generous reward, but also firmly linked Liu Zhongwu's future with Zhao Mingcheng's trip to Qingtang.

Under the cover of night.

Zhang and Zeng's two secret letters were sent to the Northwest by their trusted retainers.