activa-t Chapter 83: Presenting the Emperor's Memorial at the Purple Palace, Father and Son Receive Rewa
Chapter 83: Presenting the Emperor's Memorial at the Purple Palace, Father and Son Receive Rewa
Chapter 83: Presenting the Emperor's Memorial at the Purple Palace, Father and Son Receive Rewards
The following day, before dawn, the imperial city of Bianjing was solemn and quiet.
Zhao Mingcheng, dressed in brand-new scarlet official robes as a pacification envoy and wearing a turban with upturned corners, passed through numerous palace gates under the guidance of a palace attendant, heading towards the Zichen Hall, the symbol of supreme power deep within the inner palace.
Inside the Zichen Palace, candlelight burned brightly, dispelling the chill of the autumn morning.
On the throne, Zhao Xu sat upright. He was still wearing his ochre-yellow casual clothes, but his complexion seemed even paler than when Zhao Mingcheng left the capital a few months ago. His cheekbones were slightly protruding, and there were faint dark circles under his eyes, indicating that he had been suffering from a chronic illness for a long time.
However, when Zhao Xu saw the figure in crimson robes steadily enter the hall, his eyes, which always carried a hint of weariness and profundity, suddenly lit up, and a genuine smile appeared on his lips.
To the left and right of the throne, there were embroidered stools. The presence of Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu, two high-ranking officials, today demonstrates the significance of this audience.
"Your Majesty, I hereby dispatch Zhao Mingcheng, the Pacification Commissioner of the Hehuang Region, to return to the capital to report on his duties and pay homage to Your Majesty!"
Zhao Mingcheng walked to the foot of the imperial steps, bowed respectfully according to etiquette, and his clear voice echoed in the empty hall.
"Rise, Zhao Qing, and take a seat." Zhao Xu's voice rang out, sounding weaker than he remembered, but his tone was gentle.
"It has been several months since we last met. Looking at Zhao Qing, his face is weathered and his complexion is dark, but he appears even more vigorous and robust. The frontier is a tough place, and I am very pleased that you have served the country so well."
"Your Majesty, I am filled with trepidation. Though the frontier is a harsh place, the soldiers are risking their lives and the people long for peace. I dare not complain of the hardships, but will do my utmost to serve the king and repay Your Majesty's kindness in recognizing and rewarding me."
Zhao Mingcheng expressed his gratitude and sat down respectfully on the embroidered stool brought by the eunuch.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Zhao Xu got down to business, his tone filled with anticipation.
"Minister Zhao, I have read several reports on the affairs of the Hehuang region, but I have never had the opportunity to hear them from you in person. Today, I have summoned you to hear how you have actually acted in the Hehuang region, and how effective your border stabilization strategy has been."
Zhao Mingcheng focused his mind briefly and then began to respond in a clear and organized manner.
He did not use flowery language or exaggerate, but instead used plain and sincere language to start with the predicament of food shortages and unrest in Qing Tang at the beginning of his tenure.
"When I arrived in the Hehuang region, the first things I valued were food supplies and trust," Zhao Mingcheng said.
"Without food, soldiers and civilians cannot survive; without trust, the Han and non-Han peoples will not be at peace."
Therefore, I first made peace by purchasing salt, tea, and cloth in exchange for cattle, sheep, and provisions from the barbarian tribes. This was to alleviate the army's urgent needs and also to let the barbarian people experience the benefits of trading with the court for the first time, so that they would know that we are not a plundering army.
Then, taking advantage of the people's calm, he promoted the military-agricultural colonies, recruited refugees and surrendered to the local tribes, granted them land and seeds, and promised tax exemptions, so that the people would have permanent property and the border areas would have stored grain.
To ensure the peace and stability of the markets and agricultural settlements, a coalition was formed with the various tribes that had submitted to the regime along the Huangshui River. This coalition pledged "fair trade, protection of loyal subjects, and joint defense against foreign aggression," thus establishing trust among the tribes.
Zhao Mingcheng paused for a moment, then continued.
"However, the tree may wish to be still, but the wind will not cease. The remnants of the Xishe Luosa tribe, in collusion with the Xia Kingdom, have repeatedly launched raids, disrupting our new policies, and even intend to overthrow the Hehuang region in one fell swoop."
Thanks to the Emperor's divine might and the soldiers' valiant efforts, the newly appointed Xihe Road Military Commissioner Hu Zonghui swiftly dispatched reinforcements, General Zhong Pu rushed to the aid in time, and generals such as Wang Shan and Liu Zhongwu worked together to achieve a great victory over the enemy army at Heishitan, killing Xi Sheluo Sa in battle, severely wounding Xia general Ye Lijie, and capturing his command flag.
After this battle, the internal troubles of the Hehuang region were completely eliminated, and the powerful foreign invaders were deterred. The tribes that submitted to the emperor became even more obedient, and the military farms and markets were preserved and flourished. Now, the Hehuang region has sufficient food and fodder, the people are gradually winning over the hearts of the people, and trade is gradually resuming. This is all thanks to Your Majesty's wise instructions on stabilizing the border, and not the achievement of this minister alone.
Zhao Mingcheng's narrative is well-structured, with a general overview and specific details, as well as cause and effect.
He did not exaggerate his own role, but emphasized the emperor's decision-making, the cooperation of his colleagues, and the soldiers' willingness to fight. However, it was clear from his words that he played a key role in planning, making decisions on the spot, and even training troops and devising strategies.
Zhao Xu listened intently, a flush of excitement rising on his pale face, his eyes shining ever brighter.
Especially when he heard about the Battle of Black Stone Beach, in which the Song army won a decisive victory against overwhelming odds and completely crushed the combined forces of Xisheluosa and Western Xia, he couldn't help but gently pat the armrest of his throne and whisper.
"Excellent! Well done! You have enhanced our national prestige and secured our western border! Minister Zhao, you have truly lived up to my expectations!"
Zeng Bu stood to the side, stroking his beard and smiling. His gaze toward Zhao Mingcheng was filled with even greater appreciation and approval.
He initially strongly advocated for Zhao Mingcheng's strategy of stabilizing the border, and now it seems his judgment was sound.
This young man is not only capable, but also knows when to advance and retreat, and understands the proper measure. He is definitely a rare talent with practical skills.
At the same time, even Zhang Dun, who had always held views on expanding the borders and did not fully agree with Zhao Mingcheng's appeasement methods, could not find any fault with him at this moment.
Zhao Mingcheng's memorial was based on clear facts and irrefutable achievements, especially his decisive victory over the Xia Kingdom's reinforcements, which was an undeniable feat.
Zhang Dun nodded slightly as he listened.
"The current state of the Hehuang region is largely thanks to Minister Zhao!" Zhao Xu said with emotion, seemingly in much better spirits.
"You once said that you do not covet high office, but only wish to freely enter and leave the Prince Duan's residence and exchange ideas on calligraphy, painting and literature with the Prince Duan. I remember your words."
"In that case, I grant your request. From this day forward, you are hereby granted permission to enter and leave the Prince Duan's residence at any time, using the jade token bestowed upon you by me, without needing to request further permission. I hope that you and Prince Duan will both benefit greatly."
"Your Majesty, I kowtow and express my gratitude for Your Majesty's divine grace!"
Zhao Mingcheng made up his mind and immediately rose from his seat to kowtow.
The ability to freely approach the future Emperor Huizong of Song was crucial to his long-term planning, and was more valuable than an official position.
Zhao Xu continued.
"Furthermore, your merits deserve a reward. You shall be granted two hundred mu of prime farmland in the suburbs of the capital, two hundred bolts of silk, and three hundred taels of gold from the imperial treasury for your expenses. You shall also be granted a number of imperial writing implements, paper, inkstones, tribute satin, and precious objects to show your honor."
"Your Majesty, I thank you for your generous reward!" Zhao Mingcheng bowed again.
These rewards were very practical: land was a stable asset, silk and gold were hard currency, and imperial items were symbols of honor.
Zhao Xu's considerations were quite thorough.
"Alright, Zhao Qing, go back and get some rest. The court will judge your merits." Zhao Xu looked a little tired, but was in a good mood, and waved his hand.
"Your subject takes his leave." Zhao Mingcheng bowed respectfully and slowly withdrew from the Zichen Palace.
The next day, there will be a meeting.
Civil and military officials gathered at the Wende Hall, chanting and dancing, with solemn etiquette.
One of the important agenda items of today's court meeting is to decide on the rewards for those who have rendered meritorious service in the Hehuang region.
After the chief ministers and relevant departments presented their reports, Emperor Zhao Xu issued an imperial edict in the palace, rewarding and promoting those who had made contributions in the Hehuang campaign.
The imperial edict was read aloud by the Imperial Secretary, its sound echoing throughout the palace.
The credit naturally goes to Zhao Mingcheng.
The imperial edict praised Zhao Mingcheng for "pacifying the border regions, suppressing rebellions, promoting trade and industry, and bringing peace to both Han and non-Han peoples, for which his achievements are of the highest caliber," and bestowed upon him a purple-gold fish-shaped pouch and the title of Chengfenglang.
These two rewards are quite meaningful.
The purple-gold fish-shaped pouch was a prestigious ornament worn by civil officials.
Although Chengfenglang was a low-ranking honorary title for civil officials, it clearly defined their status as "civil officials," and as a "lang" official, it implied a sense of nobility and refinement.
This reward did not grant him a substantive position (which met Zhao Mingcheng's request not to covet an official post), but it still gave him face and a stepping stone for future promotion (with a civil official title, it would be more convenient for Zhao Mingcheng to transfer to a substantive position or be promoted in the future).
Immediately afterwards, Feng Shanghui and his father Zhao Tingzhi were rewarded.
Zhao Tingzhi was promoted from Zhongshu Sheren to Libu Shilang because of his "effective teaching of his son, cultivation of talents for the country, and considerable abilities," thus joining the ranks of high-ranking officials in the court.
This promotion was significant, and the position of Vice Minister of Rites was a highly prestigious and important post.
Upon hearing this, many officials in the hall looked at Zhao Tingzhi with envy.
Zhao Tingzhi himself was also surprised. He originally thought that his son would be rewarded for his meritorious service, but he did not expect that he would also benefit from the promotion. He was even more grateful for his son's actions and the emperor's favor.
This was followed by the bestowal of titles and rewards upon the frontline generals:
Wang Shan, for his merits in beheading the enemy chieftain at Heishitan and defending Qingtang, was promoted from Prefect of Shanzhou and Military Commissioner of Shanzhou to Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Cavalry and Infantry of Xihe Road, becoming a high-ranking military officer in Xihe Road second only to the Military Commissioner and the Chief Commander, and his real power increased greatly.
Liu Zhongwu, through his merits in assisting Zhao Mingcheng, advising on military affairs, and training and protecting troops, was promoted from Deputy General of Jingyuan Road to Commander of Jingyuan Road, and was able to take charge of a region independently.
Zhong Pu, for his merits in leading the reinforcements to victory, defeating the main force of the Xia army and seizing its command flag, was promoted from the commander of Xihe Road to the supervisor of Xihe Road, second only to Wang Shan, and became another powerful general in Xihe Road.
Tong Guan was promoted from Inner Eastern Head Attendant to Inner Attendant Director for his merits in scouting enemy positions, contacting local tribes, and assisting in opening up trade routes. His status in the Inner Attendant Department was significantly elevated, and his power and influence increased.
For his merits in pacifying his former subordinates, leading the army to the front lines, and assisting in the alliance meeting, Xia Zheng was awarded the title of Duke of Guiyi, with an additional fief, and was specially granted the honorary titles of "Acting Minister of Works" and "General of Huaihua" to show his favor.
Other meritorious soldiers and surrendered leaders were also rewarded with gold, silver, and silk, or promoted to higher ranks and titles.
After the imperial edict of bestowal of honors was read aloud, a murmur of praise rippled through the Wende Hall.
This award, with its wide coverage and substantial promotion, demonstrates the importance the imperial court attaches to the great victory in the Hehuang region and serves as a great incentive for those who have made meritorious contributions.
Although Zhao Mingcheng did not obtain a high-ranking official position, he and his son were both favored by the emperor.
In particular, Zhao Tingzhi's promotion was clearly a form of compensation and recognition from the emperor for Zhao Mingcheng's contributions.
The emperor's favor was so great that it drew attention.
Zhao Mingcheng and his father Zhao Tingzhi stepped forward and kowtowed in gratitude towards the throne.
"Your Majesty and I, your humble servants, kowtow to express our deepest gratitude for Your Majesty's boundless grace!"
The sound waves converged and echoed through the magnificent palace.
Zhao Xu sat upright on the throne, a satisfied smile on his pale face.
After this battle, the Hehuang region can be secured, and there will be less worry about the west.
The name Zhao Mingcheng, along with his strategy of "stabilizing the borders and securing the people," will surely be deeply imprinted in the court's memory during the Yuanfu era, along with this substantial reward.
After the court session, Zhao Mingcheng and his father rode back to their residence in a carriage.
In the carriage, Zhao Tingzhi looked at his son, who stood beside him as steady as a mountain, and couldn't help but sigh, "Mingcheng, my promotion this time is truly thanks to you. The Emperor is praising me, but in reality, he is rewarding you."
Zhao Mingcheng smiled and said, "Father is indeed a man of great talent, and his promotion is only natural. I am able to serve with peace of mind on the frontier thanks to your support and assistance in the capital. Father and son are one, sharing the Emperor's favor, and this is just how it should be."
Zhao Tingzhi nodded and said no more, but in his heart he gained a deeper understanding of his son's vision, courage, and his calmness in not taking credit and knowing when to advance and retreat.
My son's future is beyond my control.
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