[Fantasy] Water Margin Heroes (Complete) - 22-24

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Chapter Seventy-Eight: Springtime Scenery of Xuanhe (Part 1)

The Xuanhe Hall was rebuilt in the early years of the Chongning reign, only a decade or so ago, and is now part of the old palace. Because the hall is spacious and surrounded by small pavilions, it was convenient for managing former officials of the previous dynasty, thus preventing it from falling into disrepair.

The hall was polished brightly by palace servants early in the morning, and braziers were placed around it to dispel the chill of the harsh winter.

The former officials, gathered there, were all dressed meticulously and sat upright in the hall, awaiting selection by the legendary wise and powerful emperor. With over a hundred people gathered in the vast hall, it felt crowded.

As darkness fell, and there was still no movement outside the courtyard gate, Huifu began to panic. If the emperor didn't come today, the palace maid wouldn't let her off the hook after her sister left.

Thinking of the ruthless methods of those palace maids, Huifu shuddered. She glanced at Consort Wei, who was resting with her eyes closed, and mustered her courage to tug at Fujin's sleeve, whispering, "Sister, is the Emperor not coming?"

Seeing that Consort Wei's expression didn't change, Fujin replied, "I don't know either. Sister, please wait patiently."

Huifu thought for a moment and said, "Perhaps the Emperor has forgotten about this. Your Highness can send someone to invite him."

Consort Wei had originally intended to ignore the Fujin sisters, but hearing this, she became furious. "

I've been waiting here with you foolishly all day. Do you think I don't want to invite the Emperor? But the Emperor isn't outside the palace handling state affairs; he's with the other concubines in the harem. Although I enjoy the treatment of a Noble Consort, how can I compare to the Emperor's original wives and concubines? If I go to them to invite the Emperor, they'll hate me to death! Then I won't have a good life anymore!

If it weren't for you little vixens, I wouldn't be here waiting foolishly."

Feeling increasingly aggrieved, Consort Wei shouted at the impatient women below, "What's all the noise about? Those who don't want to wait can go back to their rooms and rest."

The women had been waiting since morning, exhausted and worried, fearing the Emperor wouldn't come, and if that happened, they didn't know how much longer they would have to endure.

Darkness itself wasn't frightening. What was frightening was finally seeing a glimmer of light in the darkness, but that light lingering without reaching them.

In their anxiety and uncertainty, they couldn't help but whisper amongst themselves, seeking some comfort.

Seeing Consort Wei's anger, the women quickly shut their mouths. Although they were all somewhat impatient, no one wanted to lose this opportunity they had waited so long for, and no one left.

A terrible silence fell over the hall.

"His Majesty has arrived." It wasn't

until dusk that the long-awaited voice rang out from Xuanhe Hall, breaking the unspoken awkwardness in the hall.

This announcement was like a glimmer of light in the darkness for the women.

Hearing the Emperor's arrival, the women felt reassured and simultaneously became fully alert.

Consort Wei glanced at the women, whose seductive intent had suddenly blossomed, and said coldly, "Whether you'll live a life of luxury or be beaten and scolded from now on depends on today. Use whatever seductive tricks you have, don't say I didn't warn you... If you still can't accept it, then don't bother welcoming the Emperor, lest you spoil his mood and implicate everyone."

With that, she went to greet the Emperor herself.

The women, remembering the hardships of the past six months, were unwilling to fall behind and followed Consort Wei to greet the Emperor.

In a short while, the once slightly crowded hall was empty. Just

as the women stepped out of the courtyard, they saw a handsome man strode in, surrounded by several eunuchs. His well-fitting nine-dragon robe accentuated his imposing presence.

"Your Majesty, I respectfully welcome you."

"This servant..." "

This humble servant..."

Consort Wei, seeing the Emperor arrive, hurriedly bowed and paid her respects. The women behind her dared not peek at the Emperor any longer and prostrated themselves on the ground.

After inspecting the martyrs' cemetery, Zhang Yang returned to Yanfu Palace to distribute gifts to his children. Unexpectedly, the little ones clung to him the moment they saw him.

Since their birth, Zhang Yang had been away fighting in various places, neglecting his responsibilities as a father. He felt quite guilty towards his children and naturally couldn't neglect them any longer.

They ended up playing for an entire afternoon, and only when his children, still young, got sleepy did Zhang Yang manage to leave.

Seeing Consort Wei's still beaming face, Zhang Yang felt a little embarrassed. He stepped forward, embraced Consort Wei, and said with a smile, "I was delayed today; I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."

Hearing the Emperor's gentle apology, Consort Wei's previous grievances vanished considerably. Feeling the envious and jealous gazes of the women behind her, she unconsciously puffed out her ample breasts.

Zhang Yang's arm immediately sank into a soft, warm embrace, and his large hand quietly slid down to Consort Wei's full buttocks, gently kneading them.

In her quest to conceive, Consort Wei had been relentlessly making love with Zhang Yang these past few days, her body now incredibly sensitive. The moment Zhang Yang made a move, Consort Wei felt utterly weak, leaning softly into his arms.

Fearing she would lose her composure in the courtyard, Consort Wei looked at Zhang Yang with alluring eyes, her breath sweet as orchids, and said, "Your Majesty, they are waiting for you to choose."

She glanced at the many women kneeling in the courtyard; though she couldn't see their figures, they were all incredibly seductive.

Thinking of the grand spectacle to come, Zhang Yang became excited, vigorously kneading Consort Wei's plump buttocks, and asked, "Have all the former palace ladies arrived?"

Consort Wei screamed at Zhang Yang's sudden roughness, her face flushed red, and she whispered in a barely audible voice, "Yes... Your Majesty, please go back inside... I can't take it anymore."

Seeing Consort Wei's aroused state, Zhang Yang paused his actions, embraced her, and walked into the room, while shouting, "Rise, all of you. The candidates, follow me into the room."

The women thanked him and rose. Seeing Zhang Yang escorting Consort Wei into the room, they felt a pang of jealousy, which elevated Consort Wei's status in their hearts.

Zhang Yang helped Consort Wei sit down, looked around at the women of all shapes and sizes, and smiled, "Those who have talents to demonstrate, stand in the hall."

—As

soon as he finished speaking, dozens of women rushed forward to form a line.

Seeing that all the women in the line were exceptionally beautiful, Zhang Yang nodded in satisfaction and said to Fu Jin beside him, "Go and number them. I want to admire them one by one."

Consort Wei nestled sweetly in Zhang Yang's arms, admiring that he wasn't lost in the beauty, and smiled, "Your Majesty hasn't eaten yet, has he? Why not eat while we admire them?"

This was exactly what he wanted; a full stomach is essential for enjoyment, otherwise, there might not be time to eat later.

Zhang Yang laughed, "Serve the meal. Everyone, please eat as well."

After Fu Jin arranged the women in order, those at the back stepped aside, leaving only one stunning beauty in the center.

This woman had an oval face, eyebrows like willow leaves in spring, eyes like autumn water rippling with waves, and a high, firm bust, a slender waist, and rounded hips, perfectly displayed in a well-fitting dress. The slit reached all the way to her thighs, exposing her fair legs to the air, making her extremely alluring.

To Zhang Yang's surprise, the style of the dress was strikingly similar to a modern cheongsam.

From what Zhang Yang knew, the cheongsam evolved from Manchu aristocratic clothing, its style shifting from concealing the body's curves to showcasing a shapely, alluring figure.

He never expected to see this familiar garment in the Song Dynasty court. He wondered if she was wearing nothing underneath; the high slit clearly couldn't accommodate much underwear.

Zhang Yang made these lewd guesses, nodding to signal the women in the room that they could begin.

Liu Shi, who had initially been somewhat apprehensive, calmed down after seeing Zhang Yang's astonished expression, knowing that the dress she hadn't yet shown to Emperor Huizong had served its purpose.

With a graceful curtsy and her cherry lips parted slightly, she said, "Your Majesty, I have not prepared any musical instruments, so I will sing a song a cappella."

Zhang Yang, hearing the woman's melodious voice, knew she could sing.

Sure enough, a moving song followed, its melody lingering in the air.

Zhang Yang clapped his hands in satisfaction and smiled at Liu, saying, "Come and dine with me."

Being able to dine with the Emperor was clearly a sign of imperial favor. After thanking him, Liu sat down beside him with a beaming smile.

Liu's performance, captivating the Emperor, was a great start for everyone, but it also added pressure to those who were to sing later, as Liu was renowned in the previous dynasty for her singing, dancing, and costume design.

Although there were many heaters in the room, they couldn't completely dispel the winter chill. Wearing only a thin garment, Liu, feeling relaxed, shivered as soon as she sat down.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang pulled Liu Shi into his arms, picked up a cup of wine, and said with a smile, "My beauty, drink this cup to ward off the cold."

Liu Shi hadn't expected the Emperor to make such an intimate gesture in front of everyone, and her body stiffened involuntarily. Just as she was at a loss, she felt the Emperor's hand, which was holding her, slip under the slit of her skirt and caress her smooth thigh.

Unlike her own delicate and smooth hands, the Emperor's slightly rough hand brought her a strange sense of comfort. The long-lost feeling made Liu Shi squint her eyes and enjoy it.

Seeing that Consort Liu had once again gained the Emperor's favor, Consort Wei said with jealousy, "Does Consort Liu want the Emperor to keep holding it up?"

Hearing this, Liu Shi snapped out of her reverie, quickly took the wine cup, and drank it all in one gulp.

Having not touched alcohol for more than half a year, and having drunk it rather hastily, Liu Shi immediately coughed, and her two breasts rose and fell with them, causing Zhang Yang to feel dizzy again. ...

Chapter Seventy-Nine: Springtime in Xuanhe (Part Two)

Then, the women who came out to sing, having seen Liu's beauty before them, paled in comparison and were not chosen by Zhang Yang.

The more clever ones switched to other talents, such as various ancient musical instruments, poetry, and songs, many of which were quite good, giving Zhang Yang a real eye-opener.

Halfway through the drinking, Zhang Yang suddenly picked up Liu and held her in his arms, giving her a wet kiss.

"Too fast! There are so many people here! How could he do this?" Liu was startled by Zhang Yang's attack and tried to push him away, but her hands were met with firm, strong chest muscles, and her movements were as weak as a little girl's struggle.

Zhang Yang savored Liu's smooth, fragrant lips, while his other hand quietly reached for her well-developed breasts.

Upon contact, Zhang Yang was stunned; Liu was actually going braless! It seemed she had gone all out. He wondered what other tricks she would have up her sleeve if she was eliminated in the first round. Of course, with her looks and talents, the possibility of her being eliminated was practically zero.

It turned out that Lady Liu had just created the cheongsam and hadn't even had time to match it with suitable underwear when the Song Dynasty fell. Every time Lady Liu created a new garment, the women in the palace would imitate it. This time, it concerned her future, so she wore this unique dress, and to avoid affecting the effect, she went braless.

Lady Liu's magnificent breasts were assaulted, and she felt a surge of shame, never expecting that the Emperor would know about her intimate parts so quickly.

Even through the clothing, he could feel the softness and smoothness of her breasts, and Zhang Yang fondled them with obvious delight. His tongue also took the opportunity to pry open Lady Liu's teeth, entwining with her delicate tongue.

Lady Liu's body was initially somewhat stiff. But her already mature body gradually responded naturally to Zhang Yang's caresses.

Lady Liu had long forgotten her shyness and her previously planned strategy of feigned resistance; now her eyes were glazed, and her fair skin glowed with an aroused pink. Her upper body writhed like a snake, rubbing against her proud, muscular chest. A delicate hand had already quietly slid towards that hot, firm member.

"So big!"

Although Liu had already felt the magnificence of the new emperor's genitals through skin-to-skin contact, she still couldn't help but exclaim in surprise when she held it in her hand.

Consort Wei, who was standing to the side, was already displeased that Liu had gotten the first taste. Hearing Liu's exclamation, she couldn't help but say sourly, "What will surprise Consort Liu even more is yet to come."

Hearing Consort Wei's words, Liu's mind cleared up. She remembered that she had made such lewd noises in front of so many people. She was deeply ashamed, but the signals constantly coming from her chest and lower body still made her continue to cater to the emperor, disregarding her shame.

Zhang Yang glanced at the jealous Consort Wei and laughed, "Consort Wei, don't be in such a hurry. You can only succeed in conceiving the imperial heir later, otherwise you'll be disappointed again tonight. Take off my clothes first."

Consort Wei, remembering Zhang Yang's prowess, gave him a charmingly reproachful look and laughed, "Why would I be in such a hurry?"

She then gracefully rose and walked behind Zhang Yang, one hand gently stroking him as he slowly undressed, while the other hand climbed onto Liu's other breast, kneading it forcefully.

Liu felt her other breast being attacked by a small hand and couldn't help but cry out in surprise. Opening her eyes, she saw Consort Wei rubbing against the Emperor from behind, simultaneously playing with her. A strange pleasure rose within her, and she gave Consort Wei a charmingly reproachful look, letting out a series of alluring moans.

Zhang Yang, enraged by the two women's combined attack, saw one of the women in the hall finish her performance and said, "If you have a more erotic performance, get me one."

The women, who had been secretly watching the emperor and his two companions, were taken aback by his request. Erotic performances were something Emperor Huizong had previously been incited to enjoy by several sycophantic ministers; the women knew a few erotic dances and vulgar songs. However, they had never performed in front of so many people.

While the women hesitated, Fujin pulled Huifu into the hall and began a seductive striptease.

Fujin, eager to stand out, seized the opportunity and pulled her sister forward. Although she hadn't studied striptease, she had learned other dances and knew Zhang Yang's sexual preferences. While not as alluring as a professional stripper, her movements were still incredibly provocative.

Huifu, pulled into the center by her sister, initially thought it was just dancing, but her sister's actions were far more embarrassing. For a moment, Huifu was stunned.

Seeing Fu Jin dragging a pretty little girl into the arena, Zhang Yang looked at the two expectantly. He watched as Fu Jin awkwardly performed her movements, while the little girl stood there, blushing and stunned. He couldn't help but look at the little girl with amusement.

As Fu Jin racked her brains to perform her lewd dance, she noticed the emperor's gaze was mostly fixed on the back, which piqued her curiosity. Could her sister have a talent for this? If so, the sisters working together would have a foothold in the harem.

Perhaps she should learn from

her; it wouldn't be in vain that she dragged her along.

As Fu Jin turned around with a sway of her hips, she turned her head and found her sister standing there dumbfounded.

This startled Fu Jin, and she stopped dancing abruptly, but then she sensed several gloating glances. Fu Jin knew that if she succeeded in taking the lead, the usually generous emperor would surely reward her handsomely. But if she failed, the emperor's wrath would have unimaginable consequences. Even if the Emperor, out of consideration for their past relationship, pardoned her, Consort Wei would certainly be wary of her, making it difficult to find such an opportunity again.

Fu Jin didn't want to waste her time or even invite trouble, so she slowly removed her outer garment while twirling and constantly giving her younger sister meaningful glances.

Seeing her sister's increasingly stern gaze and Consort Wei's mocking look before the Emperor, Hui Fu panicked and hurriedly began to dance along with her sister, but her movements were somewhat stiff, and her delicate hand reaching for her clothes moved like a snail.

Her shy expression and slow movements only fueled Zhang Yang's desire. While Zhang Yang couldn't claim to have seen countless women, he had been with dozens. The kind of blatant, erotic dance held little appeal for him; rather, it was the more innocent and naive movements that aroused his curiosity.

—The

alluring dance moves, both revealing and concealing, were even more likely to arouse a man's desire.

Seeing the Emperor's attention shift to a young, inexperienced girl in the room, Liu Shi, unwilling to be outdone, twisted her lower body, allowing Zhang Yang's large hand to easily penetrate her garden. At the same time, her fragrant lips were offered again, blocking Zhang Yang's view.

Zhang Yang, sensing Liu Shi's jealousy, was quite pleased, sucking on Liu Shi's sweet saliva. His large hand slid into her cleft, entering that alluring garden.

Liu Shi, who had been abstinent for half a year, suddenly felt a foreign object enter her lower body and couldn't help but raise her head and let out a soft cry.

After a while, Consort Wei finally released Zhang Yang's raging dragon. Seeing Liu Shi lost in Zhang Yang's grasp, she couldn't help but have an idea, wanting to embarrass her. While pressing down on Zhang Yang's already raging member to prevent Liu Shi from noticing, she gestured for Zhang Yang to pick up Liu Shi.

Zhang Yang understood, and also wanted to stimulate the slow-moving little girl in the room, one hand continuously using his fingers to penetrate her garden, the other easily lifting Liu Shi.

"What a little vixen! But this dress is truly alluring, making a woman's curves even more pronounced."

Wei Fei lifted the slit in Liu's dress up to her waist, revealing the view beneath. Her

snow-white, rounded buttocks, her alluring garden, and the dense forest on either side, now flattened by the gushing spring water, resembled the aftermath of a storm.

As Zhang Yang's fingers moved in and out, strange sounds emanated from that enchanting peach blossom cave.

Seeing Wei Fei nod, Zhang Yang knew she had adjusted her position, and quietly withdrew his hand from Liu's peach blossom cave.

Liu, lost in desire, suddenly felt a void in her lower body. Her watery, seductive eyes had just opened when she felt her body plummet, followed by a thick, hot, and hard penis thrusting into her.

"Ah, it's so big!"

The intense impact and unprecedented fullness caused Liu to scream, her eyes rolling back.

Hearing Liu's wanton cry, the women in the room blushed and instinctively looked at her. Seeing Liu and the Emperor already locked in combat, they lowered their heads in shame.

Huifu, who was about to remove her coat, suddenly heard Liu's scream and ripped it off.

Her pink bodice and fair shoulders were exposed.

Huifu instinctively covered her chest with her hands and squatted down.

Zhang Yang, seeing Huifu's shy appearance, became even more enraged. He cupped Liu's ample breasts in his hands and began to toss her around.

The intense impact made Liu forget her modesty, and she uttered a series of lewd moans.

Her wanton cries made the other women both ashamed and tempted them to peek. Unfortunately, the table blocked their view of their genitals, allowing them to only see Liu's heaving back.

Many of the women were already experienced in sexual pleasure, and the more than six months of confinement had fueled their considerable lust.

If their desires were likened to a flood, then their will was the dam, restraining those desires. Without any trigger, the dam could hold back the flood until one day it exceeded its capacity. But at this moment, Liu's joyful cries were undoubtedly a consuming demonic sound, constantly eroding their will. Cracks gradually appeared in the dam, and their hearts began to flutter. The

outward manifestation was that the women's faces gradually flushed, and their beautiful eyes became increasingly hazy.

Huifu also stood up under Fujin's stern gaze, slowly reaching for her skirt. ...

Chapter Eighty: Xuanhe Spring Scenery (Part Two)

Zhang Yang's actions were like thunder striking fire, and Liu quickly became immersed in the pleasure. Without Zhang Yang's prompting, she spontaneously swayed up and down and side to side against him, actively seeking even stronger pleasure.

Seeing Liu's frenzied state, Zhang Yang quickly supported her slender waist to prevent her from accidentally injuring herself in her excitement.

Hearing Liu's frenzied moans, Consort Wei secretly became wary, knowing that another contender for the Emperor's favor had joined the ranks of the palace. However, looking at the radiant Liu, Consort Wei knew that even if she won for a time, she would ultimately be defeated by time. Only giving birth to a prince could guarantee her lasting safety.

Liu's frenzied lewd cries also aroused Consort Wei, who had already tasted Zhang Yang's magnificence, causing her own lower body to surge with desire. Knowing that the Emperor had lost interest in eating and drinking, she ordered the maids to remove the food and drink, clearing the table.

At this moment, Fu Jin and Hui Fu in the room had also removed their skirts, leaving only their undergarments and trousers.

Zhang Yang was extremely familiar with Fu Jin's body, having already enjoyed two of her three most exquisite parts; she possessed the plumpness and vitality of a young woman. Hui Fu, on the other hand, was not yet fully developed, and after half a year of confinement, her figure was slightly thin, but her delicate and charming face and shy movements had a unique allure.

Through the rows of beautiful women, Zhang Yang could vaguely see the mature women in the back row secretly rubbing their thighs, some even reaching their hands under their skirts. Knowing they were already aroused, a wicked smile flashed across his face.

His hands, which were supporting Liu's slender waist, suddenly exerted force, tossing her high into the air. Before she could scream, he slammed her down.

"Ah!"

Liu felt a sudden emptiness in her lower body. Before she could even utter a sound of dissatisfaction, she felt the massive dragon thrust in, almost penetrating her uterus. The pain mixed with intense pleasure caused Liu to scream hoarsely.

This scream, filled with joy and surprise, made Huifu tremble again, and the bodice in her hands finally fell off, revealing a pair of small, delicate breasts to Zhang Yang.

Seeing Huifu's trembling nipples, Zhang Yang also felt a surge of impulse, holding Liu and making rapid, rhythmic movements.

This impulse was like someone who had eaten plenty of meat and fish for years suddenly seeing a delicate vegetarian dish. It was as if her appetite had been greatly stimulated.

"Ah."

In a short while, Liu reached her climax under the continuous and intense impact. After a scream, she trembled and tightly hugged Zhang Yang.

Liu, who had been empty for half a year, suddenly reached an unprecedented climax. Her lower body even spasmed, and layers of tender flesh kept squeezing the dragon inside her.

Zhang Yang only felt a strange comfort and stopped. He quietly enjoyed the unique massage.

In the room, Fujin had also taken off her underwear, revealing her charming garden. At this moment, she was stroking her breasts with both hands. Her eyes were glazed, and she kept making moaning sounds that made people weak in the knees. Her face was full of intoxication. It was unclear whether she was bewitching Zhang Yang or was truly intoxicated by masturbation.

When Liu reached her climax, Huifu also took off the last piece of cloth on her body, revealing her beautiful garden. In the slightly sparse woods, two pink and tender clams were prominent. The flower path, untouched by visitors, retained its pristine beauty, even more so than a mature woman's garden.

Consort Wei, already burning with desire, saw Liu lying on top of Zhang Yang and entwined herself around her.

Zhang Yang patted Consort Wei's plump buttocks and laughed, "I'm in top form today. If you go now, you might miss out on my favor."

Consort Wei's movements slowed upon hearing this. After thinking for a moment, reason prevailed over desire. She pouted and said, "Then I'll wait a little longer. Which beauty has Your Majesty taken a fancy to? I'll go and bring her to you."

Zhang Yang laughed, "Take some men to the inner room and prepare extra bedding. Tonight, I'll sleep with you under the same covers. It'll save you from suffering here watching a live sex show. You'll have something to see but nothing to eat."

Consort Wei glared at Zhang Yang and said reproachfully, "With so many beauties here, Your Majesty finds me an eyesore. Then I'll excuse myself for a moment. But Your Majesty, don't forget me! You must bestow your favor upon me."

"You're getting a good deal and still acting innocent. How about I let you enjoy yourself now?"

Zhang Yang embraced Consort Wei, kneading her plump buttocks roughly.

Feeling the desire ignited within her by Zhang Yang's large hands, Consort Wei dared not linger any longer. She twisted her body, breaking free from Zhang Yang's embrace, and laughed, "Your Majesty, I'd better go tidy up the room first. Enjoy yourself slowly."

Zhang Yang watched Consort Wei leave hastily, and laughed out loud. Only his abnormal body could make these mature women, like wolves and tigers, both love and fear him.

Zhang Yang patted Liu Shi, who was still leaning on his shoulder, and laughed, "Go back to your room and rest."

Liu Shi, who was enjoying the afterglow of her climax,

sat up lazily upon hearing this. Feeling the still-erect dragon, recalling Consort Wei's conversation, she was greatly amazed by the new emperor's might. Moreover, the new emperor was even younger and more handsome than Emperor Huizong of Song, and more importantly, he was a true man among men. She knew she had turned misfortune into blessing.

After being nourished by the wind and rain, Liu Shi was even more radiant. Looking at the slightly languid beauty before him, Zhang Yang's dragon, still deep within the Peach Blossom Cave, couldn't help but grow even larger.

Liu Shi felt the dragon within her stirring again and was startled. The new emperor's treasure was far more powerful than Emperor Huizong's, and his stamina was worlds apart. The unprecedentedly intense lovemaking, while bringing her an unparalleled climax, had also severely injured her lower body, which still ached slightly. If they made love again, she would probably have to rest in bed for several days.

Thinking of this, Liu Shi quickly said, "Your Majesty, I obey."

Zhang Yang kissed Liu Shi before gently lifting her up, and said to the palace maids serving nearby, "Help the beauty to rest."

"Plop!"

Zhang Yang's lower body withdrew from Liu Shi's wet Peach Blossom Cave, letting out a reluctant protest.

Liu was lifted to the ground by Zhang Yang, feeling a sudden emptiness within her, her body as if it had lost its support. She leaned limply against Zhang Yang, and if not for his support, she would likely have collapsed on the spot.

Huge, magnificent—how could she possibly contain such a magnificent thing within her?

As the palace maids helped her towards the inner room, Liu finally couldn't resist stealing a glance at the enormous dragon that had brought her unparalleled pleasure.

Watching Liu and Consort Wei leave, Fu Jin's eyes flashed with a glimmer of hope, and her moans grew louder. Seeing Zhang Yang beckoning, overjoyed, she quickly pulled her sister towards the Emperor.

Hui Fu hadn't expected to be serving the Emperor so soon, especially in front of so many people. Looking at the Emperor's robust body, her face flushed even more.

Zhang Yang looked at the shy, almost dying little girl, and his lower body throbbed involuntarily. It was fine if Zhang Yang didn't dare let the little girl arouse him, but he simply couldn't bring himself to make love with a girl who hadn't even reached full maturity.

As soon as the two sisters reached Zhang Yang's side, he pulled Fujin into his arms and waved to Huifu, saying, "Go and rest. Wait until you're older before you can receive my favor."

The unaware Fujin was startled, relieved but also slightly disappointed. She had clearly heard Aunt Liu's cries of joy earlier.

"Compared to my sister's and Aunt's breasts, mine are so small. I wonder when my little buns will grow bigger,"

Huifu thought, glancing at the Emperor's ever-changing breasts before walking away with a sense of loss.

Fujin shifted her hips, swallowed the dragon, groaned contentedly, and then slowly began to rub against it.

Zhang Yang gently caressed Fu Jin's firm breasts, laughing, "You worked very hard tonight, I'm very satisfied. What reward do you want?"

Fu Jin's eyes lit up at his words, but she hesitated immediately. If her request was too much, it might be a waste of time. Should she make that request, or wait for a better opportunity?

Seeing Fu Jin's hesitation, Zhang Yang thrust his lower body forward, laughing, "I've seen your past efforts. Unless it's an excessive request, I'll grant it. Tell me."

Fu Jin screamed at Zhang Yang's sudden action. Hearing Zhang Yang's words, she gritted her teeth and said in a seductive voice, "This servant also wants a pavilion in Yanfu Palace, just like Consort Mo Qinglian."

As she spoke, her lower body moved faster.

So she just wanted to be a concubine. Zhang Yang nodded inwardly upon hearing Fu Jin's request. If she had asked for the release of her brother, Zhang Yang would have had to consider her fate. Fortunately, she was sensible, and it saved Zhang Yang from losing a docile woman.

Zhang Yang, one hand fondling Fu Jin's smooth, jade-like breasts, the other tracing down her smooth back, caressing her undeveloped chrysanthemum, chuckled wickedly, "If you want to obtain Qinglian's status, you'll have to give as much as she did."

Fu Jin was overjoyed upon hearing this.

From the moment she resolved to rise above others, she had planned to offer herself entirely. Back then, Consort Wei and Mo Qinglian had both offered their harems; one had received permission to bear children, and the other had become an empress. Fu Jin had long intended to offer her harem as well, but hadn't had the chance to do so yet. Now, hearing Zhang Yang's promise to exchange her harem for the empress's status, she naturally agreed without hesitation.

Thinking that she wouldn't have to serve Consort Wei anymore, Fu Jin's actions became even more audacious. ...

Chapter 81: "

It is my honor to offer my first time to the Emperor, but I humbly request Your Majesty to make preparations." "

Fu Jin moved on the Emperor's body as if expressing gratitude, while pitifully saying, '

Although Zhang Yang wanted to penetrate her chrysanthemum, he didn't actually have any particular fondness for it. It's just that he felt somewhat uncomfortable about not being able to have the virginity of these women. Zhang Yang liked mature women, but in the Song Dynasty, women were supposed to marry by the age of twenty at the latest, and many women were already mothers of several children by twenty. Finding a mature virgin was as difficult as finding a virgin in modern times. And Zhang Yang really couldn't bring himself to do something like torturing underage girls.

Hearing Fu Jin's words, Zhang Yang knew that they thought he had a greater fondness for chrysanthemums, so he patted Fu Jin's plump buttocks and laughed, 'I am also very satisfied with your front. You can take your time preparing, I'm not in a hurry.'" Hearing this, Fujin secretly breathed a sigh of relief

. Although she had decided to offer her chrysanthemum, if she hadn't prepared, she feared she would be unable to walk for at least a few days after being penetrated by the Emperor's exceptionally powerful dragon. Fujin enjoyed the surging pleasure in her lower body while moistening her anus with her love juices. Seeing that there were still more than a dozen little girls in the hall, Zhang Yang couldn't bear to let them suffer the torment of desire, so he said loudly, "Those under twenty years old, go back to your rooms and rest." The women in the room , mostly princesses or outstanding young girls from the previous dynasty, were disappointed upon hearing this, but had no choice but to obey the order and leave. The mature women were former concubines and beautiful members of the royal family; among the young girls were their daughters or nieces. Sharing a husband with younger generations was already a difficult task for them, so they naturally refused to engage in any frivolous behavior in front of them. Seeing them all leave, they breathed a sigh of relief. Zhang Yang glanced at the remaining mature and beautiful women in the room and laughed, "Among so many beauties, is there no one else who can perform a passionate act?" The remaining mature women blushed as they recalled Fu Jin's dance earlier. Although there were few younger women left in the room, performing such a vulgar act in front of so many people made them feel uncomfortable. The mature women looked at each other, but none of them were willing to lower their pride. "Your Majesty, I am willing to offer a dance. Please forgive any impropriety." Just as the atmosphere became awkward, Cao Xiaofo, who was sitting at the same table as Zhang Yang, stood up and broke the silence.

It turned out that Cao Xiaofo, after being selected by Zhang Yang with her dance and given a seat before the Emperor, had focused all her attention on him. She had overheard the Emperor's conversation with Fu Jin and, just as she was about to have her eye on him, this opportunity presented itself. Feeling secretly fortunate, she quickly rose to seize the chance.

Zhang Yang nodded in satisfaction and smiled, "Your dance was beautiful just now. I have high expectations for your performance."

Cao Xiaofo gave a graceful curtsy, thanked the Emperor for his praise, and then gracefully left the hall.

"Consort Cao is a skilled dancer, so I won't obstruct Your Majesty's view any longer."

Fu Jin knew her father's former consort very well and knew that her dance would render her previous efforts futile. Feeling her rear already wet, she stood up from Zhang Yang's embrace.

With her hands on the table, she raised her fair, round buttocks and said seductively, "Please, Your Majesty, have mercy."

Zhang Yang looked at Fu Jin's pink anus. A surge of desire welled up within him; the hot, tight feeling of her anus still lingered in Zhang Yang's memory.

He smeared some of Fujin's vaginal fluid on his phallus before slowly inserting it. The untouched anus was unusually tight, causing Zhang Yang some pain. Halfway in, seeing Fujin's arms trembling violently, he stopped and asked, "Are you alright?"

Fujin felt a burning pain in her anus, but remembering that Wei Fei and Mo Qinglian had both succeeded, she gritted her teeth and retreated into Zhang Yang's arms. Zhang Yang's massive member was instantly swallowed, the intense pain turning Fujin's face deathly pale.

Zhang Yang, suppressing his urge to thrust further, kissed Fujin tenderly.

Feeling Zhang Yang's tenderness, Fujin felt the pain in her anus lessen considerably and returned his kiss. They parted only when they were almost breathless, a glistening strand of saliva lingering in Zhang Yang's mouth, creating a lascivious line between them.

Fu Jin felt the pain in her anus lessen, so she slowly began to move back and forth.

Zhang Yang played with Fu Jin's breasts, letting her move on her own for a while. Seeing that her movements were getting faster and faster, he pushed Fu Jin down onto the table and began to thrust wildly.

To Fu Jin's surprise, she found that along with the pain, she was experiencing a strange pleasure.

...

Before long, Fu Jin screamed and collapsed onto the table, having reached orgasm.

Zhang Yang hadn't expected Fu Jin to reach orgasm through her anus

, so he had a maid help her down. He then grabbed another woman and, without waiting for her to speak, tore off her clothes.

A shapely body was exposed before Zhang Yang's eyes. Seeing that the mature woman's lower body was already a mess, Zhang Yang mounted her directly.

Cao Xiaofo's dance was indeed superior to Fu Jin's; her movements were completely devoid of any vulgarity, and even her undressing was elegant and natural. However, it didn't quite match the sounds coming from the mature woman being favored by Zhang Yang.

Seeing that the mature women in the room were all staring intently at him and his companion, and many were even secretly masturbating, Zhang Yang laughed and said, "Those who want to stand out, take off your clothes for me. Those who can dance, go and dance in the hall. I'll choose from the hall."

The women were shocked by the emperor's absurd words, but with Fu Jin and Cao Xiaofo setting an example, several quickly began to undress. Seeing this, the other mature women also abandoned their sense of shame.

In an instant, Xuanhe Hall was filled with the atmosphere of spring, with snow-white flesh everywhere, creating waves of alluring breasts and buttocks as the mature women danced.

Zhang Yang also moved to the hall with the woman in his arms. Seeing that Cao Xiaofo had already removed her last piece of clothing, he pushed the woman in his arms aside, pulled Cao Xiaofo over, and began a new journey.

Whenever he saw a mature woman who interested him, Zhang Yang would change the subject. Fortunately, after watching this live sex show, the women were all ready to get their hands on him.

Consort Wei emerged from the inner room and was momentarily dazzled by the sight of nearly a hundred voluptuous bodies in the hall. While admiring the Emperor's generosity, she was unwilling to let others have their way. She immediately removed her clothes and slipped into the crowd to find Zhang Yang.

The women were already aroused by Zhang Yang, and fortunately, he was well-endowed and generous with his favor. Although they only had a brief taste, they had already experienced unprecedented pleasure. Therefore, they lingered around Zhang Yang, and when they saw Consort Wei approaching, they naturally didn't want her to enjoy the Emperor's favor alone, and they intentionally or unintentionally blocked her way.

Consort Wei, seeing these women constantly blocking her way, was magnanimous, but fearing to disturb the Emperor, she dared not be angry and could only try to push aside those blocking her path. However, every now and then, someone would use their dancing to push her back.

Finally squeezing to the center, Consort Wei was already weak from the women's caresses, her eyes glazed with desire.

By the time Consort Wei found Zhang Yang, he had already been with countless women.

Zhang Yang released the mature woman in his arms only after Wei Fei came to his door. He carried Wei Fei back to the table and made her lie face down.

Looking at Wei Fei's exceptionally full and rounded buttocks, Zhang Yang couldn't help but slap them lightly, creating a ripple in her hips.

Among the many beauties in the room, all of them were exceptional, but none possessed such alluring buttocks. When making love with Wei Fei, Zhang Yang preferred to enter from behind, enjoying her perfect buttocks.

Wei Fei knew what her body was most attractive about, and swayed her hips before coquettishly saying, "Your Majesty, please come in quickly."

Zhang Yang slapped her a few more times before thrusting his hips and entering her smoothly.

"Ah!"

Wei Fei, who had been waiting for so long, finally got her wish and let out a high-pitched moan.

After Wei Fei's orgasm, Zhang Yang relaxed and thrust again before planting his seed inside her.

Zhang Yang carried the satisfied Consort Wei into the inner room. Seeing that the room's decorations had been removed and the floor was already covered with bedding, he couldn't help but secretly admire Consort Wei's thoughtfulness.

Consort Wei, flattered that Zhang Yang had personally carried her into the inner room, excitedly said, "Your Majesty, please rest. There are many beauties outside waiting for Your Majesty's favor."

Zhang Yang smiled, placed Consort Wei in the middle, gave her a gentle kiss, and then left the main hall under Consort Wei's blissful gaze.

Although Consort Wei had been made a consort after giving birth to Zhao Gou, she had never been favored. Entering the palace was like entering a deep sea; without the emperor's favor, and amidst the scheming and intrigue among the consorts, Consort Wei had never experienced tenderness or affection. Watching Zhang Yang's retreating figure, tears welled up in her eyes.

The women in the front hall, seeing Zhang Yang carrying Consort Wei back to the inner room, were filled with jealousy and anxiety; their pent-up desire had also clouded their judgment. Under the seduction of several bold and alluring mature women, they all began to relieve their desires on their own, some even embracing each other and imitating sexual acts.

When Zhang Yang came out of the front hall, he saw this even more lewd scene, and naturally, he regained his virility.

That night, Zhang Yang didn't know how many women he had enjoyed. ,.,,,

Chapter 82 Harem Affairs: Tranquil

and Powerful.

This was the feeling Zhang Yang had when he woke up the next day to find the room full of fair-skinned bodies. The women he had chosen all had the beauty of a goddess, and if they were in modern times, they would all be considered movie stars.

Of course, only someone like him, who possessed the world, was entitled to enjoy such sexual bliss, but there was probably no one else in the world who could truly enjoy this kind of life. For no other reason than that, a body as abnormal as Zhang Yang's could not exist without the support of advanced civilization.

Among the historical figures Zhang Yang admired in the past, Genghis Khan was one of them. While his creation of an empire spanning Asia and Europe may not be unique, his prolific reproduction was unparalleled. Later research suggests his descendants are found throughout the world, with eight percent of the men in Asia, his birthplace and homeland, being his offspring. This powerful reproductive ability alone is enough to make him an idol for men, and Zhang Yang, from later generations, possessed the confidence to surpass him.

Looking at the stunningly beautiful woman lying beside him, Zhang Yang recalled the delightful experience of the previous night, and his lower body immediately became aroused. The

women Zhang Yang had carried into the inner room were all mature women he had chosen; some possessed amazing talents, others breathtaking beauty. However, what surprised Zhang Yang even more was a woman with a voluptuous thigh draped over him. She possessed a rare and precious organ, the clam.

This was also the reason Zhang Yang had sampled so many beauties the previous night. Although later laws granted everyone equal status, Heaven did not forget individuality when creating humans, thus no two people were alike. What amazed men even more was that women's genitals also had unique characteristics, with the more special ones being called "precious organs.

" Among them, the clam was considered one of the most exquisite and top-grade precious organs. Its jade gate was appropriately sized and possessed the ability to "respond to any need," freely expanding and contracting according to the size of the man's penis. The clitoris was not too deep, making it easy for a man to find. After a little exposure to wind and rain, the woman's vulva would suddenly open wide, tightly gripping the man's penis and tightening its opening; her vagina would also open and close like a peony's hard shell. This double attack brought the man unparalleled pleasure.

Zhang Yang, in his later years, had seen descriptions of famous vaginas on websites and wanted to see them, but unfortunately, he didn't have the means then. Now, however, he possessed the world and had beautiful women readily available, so of course he wanted to try it out. The results were very satisfying for Zhang Yang; the clam brought him unprecedented pleasure.

While their lower bodies were still intimately in contact, Zhang Yang acted impulsively. The beauty was jolted awake by Zhang Yang's thrust, overjoyed to see that the emperor, who had been so powerful last night, was now eager again. Last night, there had been nearly a hundred women as the main characters; although she possessed alluring vaginas, she hadn't been able to enjoy the emperor's favor alone and hadn't had her fill. Seeing that no one was vying for his favor now, she eagerly moved her lower body and willingly swallowed the dragon's root.

The arrow was on the bowstring; it had to be released. Zhang Yang truly felt like he'd been forced into a relationship. However, he was still unsatisfied with the woman's beauty, so they naturally engaged in another fierce battle.

...

"Those I favored last night, move them to Yanfu Palace. Each can choose a private room within the inner chambers. Those who weren't chosen will be divided into ten rooms. Those under twenty will remain in this palace; you can invite some dance and music teachers from the Imperial Music Bureau to teach them some skills."

After his morning practice, Zhang Yang, thinking of the approaching end of the year and the many things to do in and out of the palace, decisively abandoned the beauties who had been woken up and were now bursting with spring fever, and fled. He then summoned the palace steward, Huang Bao, to settle the women. ...

Finally, these "noble ladies" were sent away. Huang Bao was quite wary of these former officials. Making them work earlier was actually Zhang Yang's deliberate instruction to wear down their arrogance; otherwise, Huang Bao wouldn't have dared to treat these potentially powerful noble ladies so harshly.

Huang Bao was already thinking about how to ease the tension with the future mistresses. Of course, he absolutely couldn't reveal that the Emperor's idea was to mistreat them. If someone leaked this to the Emperor, his position as head eunuch would be over. If someone harbored resentment towards the Emperor and did something wrong, he would be doomed.

He would have to take the blame himself. Huang Bao thought to himself and asked, "What kind of status will the ladies enjoy?"

The women were all former officials of the previous dynasty, and it was basically impossible for them to be officially appointed as concubines. However, the Emperor could grant them the status of imperial concubines. For example, Consort Wei, although she did not have a title, enjoyed the status of a Noble Consort. Therefore, Huang Bao asked this question.

Zhang Yang thought for a moment and said, "Those in the inner chambers will enjoy the status of a Beauty for now. Those who are not selected will be treated as Talented Women."

The imperial harem was divided into five ranks: Empress, Noble Consort, Noble Lady, and

Beauty The women from Liangshan were all Noble Consorts, and Consort Wei also enjoyed the status of a Noble Lady, but the latter two did not have official titles.

Having a goal provides motivation. Zhang Yang's decision to give them a lower status was clearly intended to ensure they would diligently curry favor with him in the future, thus bringing him satisfaction.

Huang Bao, hearing that their status was not as high as Consort Wei's, felt much more relaxed. If someone were to outshine the others and gain the Emperor's favor, he would have to be wary of them immediately seeking revenge for his past transgressions. Now that they were of lower status, they would naturally be single-mindedly focused on climbing the ranks, and as the chief steward of the palace, he was someone they needed to cultivate relationships with. Over time, he would have the opportunity to eliminate their resentment.

Huang Bao bowed and said, "Yanfu Palace has dedicated staff for maintenance, and all the ladies may move there today. Does Your Majesty have any further instructions?"

Zhang Yang, wanting to sort out the personnel matters in the palace first, asked, "Are there any people in the palace without official titles?"

Huang Bao thought for a moment, then mustered his courage and said, "Only the former Crown Princess, who was banished to the Cold Palace for attempting to assassinate the Emperor."

Zhang Yang then remembered his first days in the palace. Having nothing else to do, he said, "Come with me to see her."

Upon entering the Cold Palace, Zhang Yang's only impression was one of desolation and coldness. The

once carved beams and painted rafters of the buildings were covered in dust, with only the areas near the ground being cleaned. A gust of cold wind blew, and a few withered weeds on the courtyard wall swayed in the wind.

It turned out that after the Emperor ordered Huang Bao to reduce palace expenditures, palace maintenance had naturally been cut back considerably. The empty pavilions in Yanfu Palace could be occupied by suddenly favored concubines at any time, so Huang Bao naturally dared not have any designs on them. Thus, they could only work on the old palaces. Apart from a few palaces where former officials were imprisoned and regularly cleaned, the rest of the palaces only underwent simple maintenance to prevent them from falling into disrepair.

After being banished to the Cold Palace, Zhu Shi lived a lonely life. Only at noon and in the evening would palace servants bring her meals, but they would simply drop off the food and leave without daring to speak to her. Fortunately, the palace rules seemed to have changed considerably; she could walk around the courtyard, but not leave, unlike before when she was locked inside the Cold Palace.

One day, Zhu Shi was doing needlework in her room when she heard the courtyard gate open. Thinking it was still early for mealtime, she curiously went out to investigate.

"Squeak!"

As Zhang Yang was surveying the garden, a thin woman pushed open the gate and emerged. Although the woman looked somewhat haggard, her delicate features remained unchanged, and her overall demeanor hadn't diminished; instead, she possessed a beauty reminiscent of a sickly beauty.

"The loyalist army...has arrived...and you...traitor's end has come!"

As Zhang Yang was sizing up Zhu Shi, she recognized the new emperor in his nine-dragon robe and exclaimed excitedly. However, six months without conversation had left her stammering, her voice no longer sweet.

Seeing Zhu Shi's rudeness, Huang Bao quickly shouted, "You wicked woman, Zhu Shi, how dare you be so disrespectful! Before the Emperor, you should kneel down immediately!"...

Zhu Shi glared at Huang Bao and rebuked, "The traitor's...end has come! Are you still so stubborn? You must quickly capture the traitor, and on the day the Emperor holds court, I may plead for you and spare your crimes of treason. If you remain obstinate, on the day the Emperor holds court, you will be executed without mercy."

Seeing Zhu Shi's somewhat frenzied state, Zhang Yang shook his head and sighed, "Eunuch Huang, please explain the current situation of the court to her."

Huang Bao, seeing his once wise Crown Princess transformed into this, also felt... Overwhelmed with emotion, he said, "His Majesty has already pacified the country, repelled the invading Liao, Western Xia, and Tubo kingdoms, and swiftly conquered Dali and Yue Li. Our dynasty's territory far surpasses that of the previous dynasty; all under heaven are subjects of the king, and the previous dynasty has long been forgotten."

Hearing Huang Bao's words, Zhu Shi flew into a rage, pointing at him and shouting, "You treacherous wretch, don't lie to me! The royal army must be at the city gates, otherwise why would this traitor remember me? When His Majesty ascends the throne, I will surely execute you madmen!"

Seeing Zhu Shi's madness, Zhang Yang sighed and turned to leave.

"Give Zhu Shi one hundred taels of gold, bestow upon her the title of Lady of Chastity, and escort her home immediately."

Huang Bao and his men, hearing that Zhu Shi had turned misfortune into fortune, hurriedly pulled her to kowtow in gratitude...

Chapter 83 New Year's Eve (Part 1)

On the morning of the 25th, a heavy snow began to fall. Normally, one would invite a close friend or two to enjoy wine and admire the snow, composing poems and painting. Even the military generals, if not particularly inclined, would at least compose a line like "Auspicious snow foretells a bountiful year." Unfortunately, this day coincided with the last morning court session of the year, forcing everyone to brave the snow and attend court. Fortunately, Zhang Yang didn't keep them waiting long in the dreary side hall.

After the formalities of court etiquette were completed, Dai Zong stepped forward and reported: "According to reports from Liao spies, the Jin state has appointed Wanyan as the commander-in-chief of all armies, with Wanyan and Wanyan Zonghan as deputy commanders, and Yelü Yudu as the vanguard guide, to attack Liao's Zhongjing. Liao has also dispatched 50,000 troops as reinforcements, with Yelü Dashi as the commander-in-chief."

Zhang Yang remembered that historically, the Liao state had no fighting spirit; even before the Jin army arrived, they burned their provisions, implemented a scorched-earth policy, and prepared to relocate their people. It seemed that after Zhang Yang sold a considerable amount of weapons to the Liao Kingdom, the Liao leadership had become much bolder. Moreover, Yelü Dashi was a powerful figure who founded the Western Liao Dynasty, and perhaps they could hold out against the Jin for a while. Zhang Yang also wanted to hear his ministers' opinions, so he asked, "What do you think of this matter?"

Wu Yong said, "After the rise of the Jin Dynasty, rumors spread in Liao that 'ten thousand Jin soldiers are invincible.' Furthermore, Liao has long lost the strength of its ancestors and has equipped itself with our weapons, but the situation is probably not optimistic. Now that Western Xia and Tibet are not yet subdued, if Liao is destroyed, our country will have no buffer between us and Jin. No country wants a powerful nation on its border. Once the two countries are adjacent, when our dynasty attacks Western Xia and Tibet, we will have to guard against Jin invasions. I believe our country should increase its support for Liao, ensuring that Liao holds out until we conquer Western Xia and Tibet."

Zong Ze, however, disagreed. He said, “I believe our dynasty should maintain the status quo with the Liao, sitting back and watching the tigers fight. The Liao's Zhongjing is modeled after Bianjing, with an outer city, an inner city, and a palace city. The city walls are all rammed earth, and the city gates have barbicans, making it a formidable city that is easy to defend and difficult to attack. The Jin army is not good at siege warfare, and the Liao has a valiant general like Yelü Dashi, who should be able to hold off the Jin army's offensive with Zhongjing. Our dynasty does not need to increase its aid to them, lest we nurture a tiger that will become a threat. Even if Zhongjing falls, the Liao's Nanjing has the Yanshan Great Wall for defense, and it will not be destroyed in a short time. Our country can observe first. If the Liao is weak, our country will increase its aid. Conversely, if it is strong, we will maintain the status quo, or even reduce aid, letting the Jin and Liao fight.” The strength is evenly matched. Our country will focus all its efforts on destroying Western Xia.”

Zhang Yang also knew that Liao could not be destroyed overnight, so he said, “Zongqing is right. Liao has been established for a hundred years and has its own way of survival. Our country should observe for a while and then act when the time is right. What is the current situation in Western Xia?”

Dai Zong thought for a moment and said, “Chage and Weiming Renzhong are equally loyal and each has supporters in the country. The two have been fighting for half a year without a clear winner, and now they are in a stalemate. Xiao Heda has 50,000 troops that invaded our country, and he also took control of the Left Wing Divine Valiant Army and the Xiangyou Army during the return of his troops. In addition, he has his original post in Xia Prefecture. Now he has become a very important force in Western Xia. Chage and Weiming Renzhong are both…” "We're trying to win him over."

Zhang Yang nodded upon hearing this, "Has Xiao Heda made any moves?"

Dai Zong shook his head, "Our unit is newly established. We lack manpower and training, and Xiao Heda is cautious. We've lost several men and haven't been able to enter Xiao Heda's residence. We can't determine his intentions, but some Liao people who speak Khitan are frequently seen entering and leaving his residence."

Zhang Yang nodded, "The new dynasty is newly established, and your unit's current achievements are already remarkable. The Western Xia are just clowns; the battle in Hedong has severely weakened them, and they can't cause any more trouble. Your unit should mainly focus on scouting the Western Xia's routes. Do any other ministers have anything else to report?"

Upon hearing this, the ministers knew that the emperor had officially put the conquest of Western Xia on the agenda.

Minister of Rites Zhao Mingcheng stepped forward and reported, "The envoys from Goryeo arrived at Dengzhou the day before yesterday. The three kingdoms of Champa (roughly in present-day southern Vietnam), Zhenla (Cambodia), and Bagan (in Myanmar) have also sent envoys, all of whom have entered the country."

Zhang Yang nodded upon hearing this, saying, "The envoys from various countries will take some time to arrive in the capital. Let's discuss it again after the court resumes."

Zhao Mingcheng then withdrew.

Zhang Yang dealt with several more political matters, and seeing that no one else had a report to submit, he said, "This morning's court session ends here. Court will be closed for half a month starting today. All officials should return home to celebrate the New Year. On the third day of the New Year, I will hold a grand banquet for all officials in the palace. You may bring your families to the palace then. During the court break, you need not come to the palace unless absolutely necessary."

The ministers thanked him and withdrew. Zhang Yang returned to his inner palace to enjoy himself.

Happy days always fly by, and before they knew it, it was New Year's Eve. As night fell, the Imperial Street was already packed with people. Hundreds of thousands of people in the capital eagerly awaited the arrival of the first Spring Festival of the new dynasty.

In previous years, preparations for the imperial garden lantern festival began in various regions as early as September or October of the previous year, with lanterns being delivered to the capital by December, and the lanterns being hung up starting on New Year's Eve. The festival reached its zenith on the Lantern Festival (January 15th of the lunar calendar).

This year,

however, the lantern displays were not as extravagant as in previous years, and various regions no longer needed to expend effort on offerings. Although the court did not hold a large-scale event, wealthy households were allowed to decorate with lanterns to add to the festive atmosphere and provide entertainment for the common people.

At the beginning of the dynasty, the Ministry of Justice purged many wealthy households in the city, and the emphasis on the long-standing policy towards the wealthy made lower-level officials understand the underlying meaning. Under the "guidance" of officials, well-off families in the city generously contributed to the lantern displays. …

The common people in the city did not need to contribute to the lantern displays, and they naturally went to see them without hesitation. Furthermore, after the new emperor ascended the throne, taxes were abolished, and the exploitation of the common people by the wealthy was strictly prohibited. As long as they worked hard, even those without land could support themselves through labor. No longer needing to worry about their next meal, the people naturally had the mood to go out and enjoy themselves.

As the crescent moon rose, Bianjing City was already bustling with activity, filled with the sounds of music and revelry. Within and outside the imperial palace, torches blazed, music filled the air, and countless lanterns, shining like stars, illuminated the Duanmen area as if it were daytime.

Zhang Yang, carrying his eldest son, ascended Xuande Gate with his family.

"Greetings, Your Majesty!"

As the guards on the city walls and around the square bowed, the people around the square knelt down, paying homage to the emperor, whom

they considered a god descended to earth. Looking at the people prostrate at their feet, the guards' loyalty to the emperor grew even stronger. They had followed the emperor in conquering the land, and the emperor had not forgotten their contributions, granting them various privileges. Even when meeting the emperor, they only needed to give a military salute, not kneel—a treatment not even bestowed upon the seven ministers. Only such an emperor was worthy of their loyalty, and only he could lead them to conquer the world.

Looking at the sea of heads below, Zhang Yang walked to the pre-set megaphone and shouted, "Rise! Today is the first Lunar New Year's Eve of our dynasty. No need for formalities."

"Your Majesty is truly a god descended to earth! His voice is like thunder; we can hear him even from this far away."

"Indeed, no wonder he defeated the Western Xia and Liao dynasties, and then destroyed the Dali and Yue Li dynasties. Just one shout from him on the battlefield would surely terrify those barbarians."

Because of the fireworks display in front of the building, the square had been cordoned off by guards. The people below were all outside the square and couldn't see what was happening upstairs. A few clearly saw the large megaphone in front of the Emperor, but they didn't understand its purpose. Hearing the Emperor's booming voice, they couldn't help but exclaim in amazement. While

everyone was astonished by Zhang Yang's loud voice, he was somewhat dissatisfied. Although he had successfully amplified the volume, it had also created some echoes, diminishing the effect. But in this era, there were no suitable megaphones; they could only wait for the times to improve.

Once the crowd had risen, Zhang Yang said no more and simply announced, "The New Year's Eve fireworks display of the first year of the Chinese New Year now begins!"

"Bang...bang..."

"Bang...bang..."

"Bang...bang..."

As soon as he finished speaking, deafening cannon fire rang out across the square, and dazzling fireworks bloomed in the night sky.

Fireworks appeared very early in China, and their development was even more rapid than that of firearms; by this time, there were already five colors of fireworks.

The magnificent fireworks thrilled the people, lasting for a full half hour before the dazzling displays faded from the sky.

"Why is it over? Father, I want to see more!"

A little over a year old, Zhenguo, after waiting a while and seeing that the fireworks had stopped, wiggled in Zhang Yang's arms and cried out.

Zhang Yang smiled, patted his eldest son, stood up, walked to the giant loudspeaker, and announced, "Today's fireworks display is over. The Old Palace will be open to the public in a quarter of an hour. You can line up to tour it."

With that, Zhang Yang carried the child downstairs. ...wap. 1.

In previous years, the royal family only opened the Imperial Gardens, while the Imperial Palace remained a royal domain, shrouded in mystery and nobility in the eyes of the common people. Hearing the Emperor announce the opening of the Old Palace, the people were immediately excited and surged forward. Fortunately, the Imperial Guards were well-prepared and managed to hold them back.

Zhang Yang and the others returned to Yanfu Palace, where the Imperial Guards sealed off the passage between the Old Palace and Yanfu Palace to prevent anyone from accidentally entering Yanfu Palace and spoiling the Emperor's enjoyment.

The women were all excited. Xiao Qiao caught up with Zhang Yang, her face full of anticipation, and asked, "Will there be fireworks for the Lantern Festival?"

Zhang Yang looked at the still innocent Xiao Qiao and laughed, "Yes, but not as many. Firework materials are strategic items; I have other uses for them."

Amidst laughter and conversation, they returned to the main hall of Yanfu Palace.

Xiao Qiao looked at the novel hot pot in the room and asked curiously, "Why are you cooking here? You even dug a hole in the table!"

Zhang Yang looked at the hot pot he had made under his guidance with satisfaction and laughed, "I just made the hot pot a little bigger, and you don't even recognize it?" ...

Chapter 84 New Year's Eve (Part 2)

Regarding the origin of hot pot, there are two theories: one is that the "bronze cauldron" of the Three Kingdoms period or Sui Dynasty was the predecessor of hot pot; the other is that hot pot originated in the Eastern Han Dynasty, and the "dou" in the cauldron refers to hot pot. It can be seen that hot pot has a history of more than 900 years in China. It wasn't invented by some time traveler who just wanted to.

During the Three Kingdoms period, when Cao Cao usurped the throne from the Han dynasty, copper hot pots already existed, but they weren't popular at the time. By the Northern and Southern Dynasties, the use of hot pots for cooking gradually increased. Initially popular in the cold northern regions, people used them to cook various meats such as pork, beef, mutton, chicken, and fish. Later, with the increasing development of China's economy and culture, and further advancements in cooking techniques, various types of hot pots emerged. By the Northern Song Dynasty, hot pots were available in taverns in Bianjing (Kaifeng) during winter.

However, the most common type was still the small copper hot pot, where food and seasonings were pre-filled and ready to eat once the pot boiled. Zhang Yang, however, brought the modern hot pot back to ancient times, with the dipping sauce and broth personally prepared by the imperial chefs. Zhang Yang believes the taste won't be inferior to some modern brand-name hot pots.

Xiao Qiao looked at the vegetables and meat on the table and asked curiously, "Why are all the things left out?"

Zhang Yang sat down, holding his eldest son, and poured a plate of almost transparent mutton into the pot, laughing, "Put in whatever you like to eat, that's what I call satisfying! Everyone, sit down."

The women looked at each other, and Wen Lian, Hu Sanniang, Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, Hua Yu, Fang Baihua, and Zhen Shi sat down one after another. The other concubines without titles then looked for seats at the nearby tables. Consort

Wei and Empress Zheng from the previous dynasty glanced at the two empty seats left at Zhang Yang's table and hesitated. Although both of them enjoyed the privileges of a Noble Consort, they had no official titles, and being former officials of the previous dynasty, they didn't dare to compare themselves with Hu Sanniang and the others. However, Emperor Huizong had been fickle in the past, and the two of them hadn't had a good time in the palace. Now, having met a gentle and affectionate emperor like Zhang Yang, they naturally wanted to enjoy more of his warmth, especially since it was New Year's Eve. Naturally, they wanted to sit at the same table as the emperor.

Zhang Yang, in fact, had already made his calculations. Otherwise, there wouldn't be two extra seats at this table. Seeing the two women hesitate, he smiled with pity, "You two should sit here, let's all have a good time together."

Consort Wei and Consort Zheng were overjoyed upon hearing this, and eagerly sat down, smiling ingratiatingly at the other women.

Wen Lian and the other women were all kind-hearted, and seeing the two women's goodwill, they all greeted them with smiles.

The best charcoal was used as a fire source, no less efficient than modern appliances, and in the blink of an eye, the pot was boiling with water.

Seeing that the water was boiling, Zhang Yang picked up a piece of mutton, dipped it in some sauce, and put it in his mouth.

"Good, reward the imperial chef with ten taels of silver."

He didn't expect that the imperial chef's dipping sauce and broth were far superior to the brands Zhang Yang had eaten in modern times. However, if Zhang Yang knew how many precious materials the imperial chef had used, he probably wouldn't be surprised, and he wouldn't have given a reward.

The imperial chef had conducted hundreds of experiments to select the best options for the dipping sauce and broth, and the materials were all top-quality tribute items. Naturally, they were incomparable to those modern mass-market brands.

"Father, I want to eat too!"

Little Zhenguo, seeing the Emperor's praise, eagerly waved his little hands, reaching out, but he couldn't reach the pot in the center of the table.

Xiao Qiao had already scooped up a piece and put it in her mouth, praising it highly as well. ...

Seeing this, the women also started eating.

Zhang Yang put a few pieces of meat in Zhenguo's small bowl, and seeing that the pot was empty, he put in several more plates of meat. As soon as

the pot boiled, there was another flurry of chopsticks, a delicious New Year's Eve dinner.

After the palace maids added water several times, Zhenguo patted his bulging little belly and said, "Father, this hot pot is so delicious, can we eat it often in the future?"

Zhang Yang patted Zhenguo's little head and laughed, "Sure, if Zhenguo wants to eat, just tell the imperial chef to make it. In such a vast world, how can you, a little glutton, eat us out of house and home?" As

Zhang Yang chatted and laughed with the women, it was already late at night, and the princes had all been taken to rest by the palace maids.

Zhang Yang, showing consideration for Baihua and Huayu who had not yet given birth, told them to rest first, and then gave Consort Wei a wink.

Consort Wei understood and also got up, saying, "It's late, so I won't disturb Your Majesty and Her Majesty's rest any longer.

I'll take my leave now." Consort Zheng and the other concubines without titles also took their leave.

Seeing that only Wen Lian, Er Qiao, Consort Zhen, and San Niang remained, Zhang Yang got up and said, "Let's take a bath and rest together." The

five women blushed when they heard that the Emperor was going to sleep with them again.

Zhang Yang then pulled Xiao Qiao towards the bathroom, and the other four women had no choice but to follow.

Before long, five plump, fair-skinned beauties appeared in the bathroom. Having just given birth, the five women's figures appeared much fuller.

Zhang Yang had not made love to the five women for almost a year, so he embraced Wen Lian and jumped into the water.

Wen Lian

screamed in fright. Once she was standing in the water, she breathed a sigh of relief and said reproachfully, "You're so..."

Zhang Yang kneaded Wen Lian's much fuller, rounder buttocks and laughed, "I haven't touched the Empress in so long, of course I'm impatient."

Wen Lian, who had also been abstinent for a long time, was aroused by Zhang Yang's slight caresses and offered her fragrant lips. After

a good while of foreplay, Zhang Yang felt the time was right and thrust himself into her.

After some effort, Zhang Yang felt this position was a bit difficult in the water, so he carried Wen Lian to the edge of the pool, signaling her to lie down, preparing to attack from behind. Wen Lian

's buttocks, after childbirth, were no longer as firm as they had been in her youth, but they were much fuller, possessing a more voluptuous beauty.

Looking at her plump buttocks, Zhang Yang couldn't help but lightly slap them, causing ripples to spread across the water's surface.

Wen Lian didn't feel pain; instead, she screamed in surprise at Zhang Yang's shameful teasing.

Zhang Yang slapped her a few more times before beginning his conquest from behind. ... With

each powerful thrust, Zhang Yang noticed that Wen Lian's breasts were gushing out streaks of white milk, a sight so lewd. He reached out and pulled Xiao Qiao, who was peeking from the side, to his lips, and began to suckle at her full breasts, the sweet milk filling his mouth.

Another night of sexual bliss.

The next day, while Zhang Yang was still lost in a pink dream, he was gently awakened by Wen Lian.

Gazing up at Wen Lian's full breasts, Zhang Yang couldn't resist pulling her down and suckling at her sweet milk, his tongue circling her nipples. His hand, which had been around her waist, slid down her smooth back and into her buttocks, while his other hand climbed onto her other full breast.

Wen Lian had been storing milk all night, and her breasts were somewhat swollen. Zhang Yang's suckling made her feel better, and his large hands brought her waves of pleasure. But fearing that Zhang Yang would reignite the conflict, Wen Lian gently pushed him away, saying, "The officials from all the departments will be coming to pay their respects soon, Your Majesty, please don't cause trouble."

Sucking on the sweet milk, Zhang Yang felt as if he had been transported back to modern times, having a breakfast of milk and bread. With Wen Lian's breast still in his mouth, he mumbled, "No rush, I'll have some breakfast first."

Hearing that Zhang Yang was using her breast milk for breakfast, Wen Lian couldn't help but chuckle. However, as Zhang Yang's large hands explored her breasts, she quickly stopped finding it amusing, and was replaced by a surge of pleasure. After

Zhang Yang finished sucking on both of her breasts, Wen Lian also reached her climax under Zhang Yang's caresses.

Wen Lian lay on top of Zhang Yang, squinting her eyes as she enjoyed the afterglow of her orgasm, while Zhang Yang gently stroked Wen Lian's smooth back.

"Your Majesty, Eunuch Huang has come to pay his respects for the New Year."

Just as the two were enjoying their intimacy, Wen Lian's personal maid came in to report.

Wen Lian glanced at the blushing maid, gently patted Zhang Yang, and scolded, "It's all your fault! Hurry up and get dressed."

"Smack!"

Zhang Yang slapped Wen Lian's bottom and laughed, "Xiao Yue has seen it all before. Call me 'darling husband,' and I'll get up."

Wen Lian had been with Zhang Yang for over two years and already knew what her husband meant. Hearing this, she rolled her eyes at him, but fearing he would act shamelessly again, she could only say shyly, "Darling husband, get up quickly."

Hearing Wen Lian's sweet voice, Zhang Yang felt his bones melt. Satisfied, he patted Wen Lian's plump buttocks and laughed, "I'll grant my wish to my darling wife. You get dressed first, I'll wake them up."

Wen Lian was finally free and began to put on the elaborate palace robes with the help of the maids.

Zhang Yang then began his erotic moans, touching and groping here and there, quickly eliciting coquettish cries from the women.

After dressing, Third Sister said, "I'll head back now. The stewards from each household still need to pay their respects for the New Year."

Zhang Yang laughed, "Stay here. It'll save you the trouble of exchanging red envelopes. I'll reward you all generously."

Xiao Qiao exclaimed, "Great! I can buy some fun things!"

Zhang Yang and the five women sat down in the front hall and then ordered the palace maids to open the door.

The first to enter was Huang Bao, the Grand Eunuch of the Imperial Palace. Huang Bao was slightly taken aback when he saw the two Qiaos and the others, then kowtowed and offered his New Year's greetings.

"I wish Your Majesty, the Empress, and the five Consorts good health and peace for the nation."

Zhang Yang took out a red envelope that had been thickened and handed it to Eunuch Huang, saying, "I also wish Eunuch Huang a Happy New Year. I'll also reward you with the red envelopes from the Empress and the four Consorts."

Huang Bao accepted the red envelope, thanked the Emperor, and took his leave.

Then, the stewards of each household, according to their masters' rank and favor, came to offer New Year's greetings in a cursory manner. Zhang Yang repeatedly wished them a Happy New Year and distributed the prepared red envelopes.

Finally, all the prepared red envelopes were used up, and no one else entered. Zhang Yang couldn't help but bend over, exhausted. The etiquette in the palace was truly cumbersome. Fortunately, he had already simplified most of it... 05-09

Chapter
Eighty-Five: Customs Office

On the tenth day of the first month, Zhang Yang had to rise from the gentle embrace of the inner palace and,

with three cracks of his golden whip, summon all the civil and military officials.

Zhang Yang sat down, received the grand salutes of the officials, and smiled, "Today is the first court assembly of the second year of the reign of Emperor Huaxia. In the past year, all of you have made great achievements, making the country well-ordered. In the new year, I hope that you will continue your efforts and create a brilliant future together."

In the past, it was always the officials who flattered the emperor, and the country was only peaceful and prosperous under the emperor's guidance. Zhang Yang's opening was unexpected.

The officials, surprised, quickly knelt down and attributed the main credit to the emperor.

Zhang Yang had only dabbled in modern leadership techniques and hoped to motivate his men. Seeing the mixture of trepidation and excitement in the expressions of some of the older officials, he waved his hand and said, "Rise, everyone. If you have something to report, speak up."

Zhao Mingcheng, the Minister of Rites, said, "The envoy from Goguryeo requests an audience to present his credentials."

Zhang Yang had no fondness for Goguryeo; the Korean Peninsula had been stained with the blood of Han Chinese throughout ancient history. What angered Zhang Yang most was that after Goguryeo defeated the 300,000-strong army of the Sui Dynasty's first campaign, they cruelly used Han Chinese skulls to build a mound of skulls. This was not only an insult to the dead but also a provocation against the Han Chinese people. The Goryeo Dynasty at that time was a continuation of Goguryeo, far less humble than the later Joseon Dynasty, employing a royal system until the Mongols destroyed it, at which point it adopted the lower-ranking title of a vassal state.

Hearing this, he coldly asked, "You've already met them, haven't you? What brings them here?"

Zhao Mingcheng sensed the chill in Zhang Yang's words and was taken aback. Although he had met with the Goryeo envoy, it was merely a preliminary exploration according to procedure; there seemed to be no forbidden territory. Surely he hadn't offended the Emperor?

Zhao Mingcheng pondered for a moment, then cautiously said, "After the Jurchens established their state, Goryeo was constantly harassed by them. Goryeo has come to form an alliance with us to jointly resist the rising Jin Dynasty."

Zhang Yang sneered, "A mere tiny country. Does it deserve an alliance with our country? I have no time to see those clowns. Let them recognize their own status before they come again."

While the ministers felt that Goryeo had indeed exaggerated their national strength, they hadn't expected Zhang Yang to refuse to even meet them.

Had Goryeo somehow offended the Emperor? But Goryeo had been a vassal state of the Liao Dynasty since the reign of Emperor Taizong of the previous dynasty, and hadn't paid tribute for nearly thirty years. The Emperor and Goryeo shouldn't have any dealings.

The ministers couldn't figure it out and dared not step forward rashly.

Only Pei Xuan, the former Minister of Justice with his iron-faced demeanor, stepped forward and said, "If Your Majesty does not see the Goryeo envoy, it may cause Goryeo to harbor resentment towards our dynasty, thus turning them to the Jin dynasty and unnecessarily strengthening Jin's power. It would be better to lure them with small benefits, which would allow them to confront Jin in the north and curb Jin's rise."

Zhang Yang sneered upon hearing this, "Jin is a wolfish and powerful nation, and it is separated from Goryeo only by a narrow strip of water. If they could coexist peacefully, why would they travel thousands of miles to our dynasty? I am confident that I can wipe out Western Xia before Jin destroys Liao. Why do I need Goryeo to restrain Jin?"

Although Zhang Yang was usually decisive, he was also good at accepting advice. Knowing that his prestige was too great, he feared that his ministers would flatter him and that there would be few dissenting opinions in the court. Therefore, he rarely refuted Pei Xuan, a minister who resembled Bao Zheng of the previous dynasty, hoping that he would uphold the truth and not follow the crowd at crucial moments.

The ministers were well aware of the emperor's thoughts, but not everyone could be a minister who offered such advice. While they admired Pei Xuan, they dared not emulate him. Seeing that Zhang Yang had rejected Pei Xuan's opinions, they all shrank back.

Only Zhao Mingcheng, being in his post, braced himself and said, "Although Goryeo has committed a minor offense, considering their long journey, we humbly request Your Majesty to grant them an audience as a sign of imperial favor."

Although Zhang Yang knew they were acting in the court's best interests, he had no goodwill towards Goryeo. He coldly glanced at Zhao Mingcheng and waved his hand, saying, "Let's leave it at that. There's no need to discuss it further. Do any of you ministers have anything else to report?"

Zhao Mingcheng, meeting Zhang Yang's sharp gaze, lowered his head to avoid it, sighed inwardly, and said, "I have another report to submit. Envoys from Liao and Jin have entered the country and should arrive in the capital on the fifteenth of January. Envoys from Champa, Pagan, and Zhenla will also arrive in the coming days."

Zhang Yang nodded and said, "Yes, the three kingdoms of Champa probably saw the destruction of the Viet Ly Dynasty and are worried that our country will continue to use force, so they want to become vassal states. You can receive them according to etiquette. Minister Dai, how is the battle between Jin and Liao in Zhongjing?"

Hearing the emperor call his name, Dai Zong stepped forward and said, "Yelü Dashi entered Zhongjing before the Jin army attacked. The Jin army attacked for several days and suffered heavy casualties, but they still could not shake the fortified city of Zhongjing. Unable to conquer it, the Jin army had to turn to besieging it. At present, the two countries have entered a stalemate."

Zhang Yang nodded upon hearing this and said, "In this way, the purpose of the two countries is clear. We just need to maintain a balance between the two countries." "That's enough. Is there anything else to report?"

Minister of War Wu Yong said, "Li Jun has integrated the previous dynasty's navy, forming three 10,000-strong squadrons. After half a month of clearing, the large pirate groups have all been annihilated, and the remaining scattered pirates no longer pose a threat to large fleets."

Although the Song Dynasty could not defeat the Liao and Western Xia in land warfare, its shipbuilding industry was quite advanced. Ships used

technologies such as needles, keels, and watertight compartments, and the largest ships could carry thousands of ships. They sailed to Arabia, East Africa, India, Southeast Asia, and Japan and Korea in East Asia. The Song Dynasty's navy was also much stronger than its cavalry and infantry, which could fully guarantee the smooth progress of foreign trade in Southeast Asia. The

three-year tax exemption greatly reduced the court's revenue, while the wars on all sides required a lot of money as a backing. Zhang Yang thought about it and then turned his attention to international trade, exporting pottery and silk and bringing back local specialties from Southeast Asian countries. The profits would be at least dozens of times higher, almost like robbery.

Zhang Yang could almost see ships of gold and silver entering the national treasury, and the envoys from the three countries would be the money-bringing boys.

"Bring the envoys from the three kingdoms to an audience immediately upon their arrival."

Seeing Zhang Yang's drastically different attitudes towards Goryeo and Champa, the officials were all somewhat bewildered. Champa's strategic significance was far less than Goryeo's; why was the Emperor putting the cart before the horse?

Seeing the officials' puzzled looks, Zhang Yang dealt with a few more matters and then left the court.

After the officials respectfully saw the Emperor off, just as they were about to return to their respective offices, the Emperor's personal eunuch, Fu Gui, said again: "By imperial decree, the seven ministers and Zong Ying are to go to the Imperial Study for a meeting."

Zhao Mingcheng and the others were completely baffled by Zhang Yang's foreign policy. They couldn't ask him in court, but Zhang Yang was always generous in explaining things to them in private.

Zong Ying was taken aback when he heard that he was to participate in the Imperial Study meeting, which was usually only attended by the heads of the seven ministries . When his father, Zong Ze, approached, he whispered, "Father, what does the Emperor want to discuss? Why do I need to participate?"

Zong Ze shook his head and said, "I don't know either. The Emperor is always unfathomable. We can never keep up with his train of thought."

Zhao Mingcheng, who was walking by, smiled and said, "Nephew, don't worry. In my opinion, it's definitely a good thing that you'll be promoted. You're already a fifth-rank defense commissioner. Your future is limitless."

Zong Ze stroked his long beard with pride, also feeling that his son's chances of promotion were high. However, being a cautious man, he still said, "His experience is still limited. I'm afraid he'll have to stay as defense commissioner for a few more years."

Zhao Mingcheng smiled and said, "His Majesty always appoints people based on their abilities. Nephew, you are talented in both literature and martial arts. You are a capable person. I think you'll be able to realize your ambitions this time."

As the three of them chatted and laughed, they arrived at the Imperial Study. They dared not discuss it any further and filed in, led by Fu Gui.

Zhang Yang offered seats to his ministers and said with a smile, "I have gathered you all here today to discuss the matter of establishing a new customs office. Overseas trade is extremely profitable, but the previous dynasty's Maritime Affairs Bureau only collected a million strings of cash annually. I believe there are significant omissions. I intend to separate tax collection from the Maritime Affairs Bureau and have the Customs Office handle it exclusively."

Although the ministers had all heard of the profits from overseas trade, a million strings of cash was enough to cover the taxes collected on all roads. Hearing that the Emperor was still not satisfied, they were greatly puzzled.

Jiang Jing, the former Minister of Revenue and a renowned strategist, exclaimed with delight, "Is overseas trade really that profitable?"

Although Zhang Yang did not know the details of the Song Dynasty, he knew that much tax was inevitably evaded, and that the products of the South Seas were all luxury goods; even a small amount would result in a substantial loss of tax revenue for the court.

"Although I am not familiar with maritime affairs, I believe that after the reconstruction, the customs office can at least double its profits."

Jiang Jing, though unsure of the Emperor's source of such confidence, had witnessed the Emperor's many extraordinary feats and did not doubt him. Xi said, "In that case, we need to carefully plan the procedures for long-distance trade to prevent them from evading taxes."

Zhang Yang laughed, "You're right. We need to designate several cities as foreign trade points. All ocean-going cargo ships must have their goods inspected by the customs at these points before unloading. Other cities are only allowed to dock and replenish supplies; unloading is strictly prohibited."

Zong Ze said, "The coastline is wide. If someone docks outside a city, the customs will probably have difficulty detecting it."

"Firstly, the customs can use ships to patrol the sea; secondly, they can offer substantial rewards for reporting illegal ships. Illegal merchants should be punished with a hundredfold fine and have their right to engage in foreign trade revoked. Severe punishment and close supervision should deter merchants from taking chances."

Upon hearing about the hundredfold fine, everyone felt a chill. If such a huge fine were imposed, even wealthy merchants would be severely affected. This would indeed deter most people.

Seeing everyone nodding in silence, Zhang Yang said, "Zong Ying, I hope you will become the Director of the Customs Office, a fourth-rank official. However, I require you to visit various cities along the Jiangnan coast over the next two years and formulate detailed regulations. Can you do that?"

Zong Ze, hearing that the Customs Office was a fourth-rank official position, was greatly encouraged. Although it meant being far from the capital, even in ten years in the capital, one might not be promoted more than two ranks. Moreover, judging from the emperor's implication, the Customs Office had great potential; if he achieved success there, he could naturally be transferred back to the capital, and then he would likely be promoted beyond the fourth rank. Where else could one find such a good opportunity? Seeing his son still hesitating, he quickly gave him a meaningful look.

Zong Ying, who had initially worried about his abilities when he heard he was to create his own office, knelt and kowtowed upon seeing his father's support, saying, "Thank you for Your Majesty's grace. I will certainly do my utmost." (

Chapter 86

: The Minister of the Royal Fleet was only a second-rank official, and seeing Zong Ying's easy promotion, he somewhat envied Zong Ze.) They didn't want them to start their official careers at the second rank, a much higher starting point than Zong Ying.

While everyone was lost in thought, Zhang Yang dropped another bombshell.

"I intend to establish a royal fleet to engage in long-distance trade, which would also alleviate the court's financial problems."

As soon as he finished speaking, Zhang Shuye said, "Your Majesty, you absolutely must not! If the court engages in such commercial activities, firstly, it will affect the court's prestige; secondly, it will likely bankrupt many small-scale merchants, competing with the people for profits, which is truly unacceptable." Among

scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants, merchants have always had a low social status, even being considered a lowly profession. Although the Song Dynasty's tax revenue largely came from commerce, scholars were unwilling to elevate the status of merchants, let alone engage in business in the name of the court.

Zhang Yang had anticipated their objections and laughed, "Zhong, you are mistaken. Scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants are all pillars of the nation. Commerce can boost the economy and benefit the people; it is a good thing, and we should not look down on merchants. As for the business of merchants, every dynasty has dealt with it. Which dynasty didn't monopolize highly profitable industries like salt and tea? Our dynasty is simply adding another one. Moreover, as long as the people pay taxes according to the law, I will not prevent them from going to sea. As for the claim that this is competing with the people for profits, that is probably unfounded. The royal caravans deal in tribute goods, while they deal in local specialties. The two complement each other perfectly, monopolizing both high-end and low-end markets abroad. At most, it will dilute their profits a bit, but it will never bankrupt them."

Although the crowd hadn't heard of a few of the words, they could still understand what Zhang Yang was trying to say.

Zhao Mingcheng disagreed, saying, "Scholars, farmers, artisans, and merchants. Agriculture is the foundation of the nation, while merchants are merely opportunists. If Your Majesty encourages commerce, it will inevitably shake the foundation of the country, which is truly unacceptable."

Zhang Yang shook his head, saying, "Promoting commerce does not necessarily harm farmers. With merchants, the circulation of goods can be promoted, and people can buy farming tools and seeds. Not every farmer is willing to go into commerce, so the two are mutually beneficial, not competitive. Moreover, there are many people without land now. Encouraging commerce is also a great act of kindness in solving the problem of people's basic needs."

Seeing that Zhao Mingcheng was about to object again, Zhang Yang quickly waved his hand and said, "I know you still have objections, but I am optimistic about this matter. Let's set aside our disputes for now and try it out for a while. After the envoys from the three kingdoms of Champa arrive, Jiang Jing can communicate with them more and see what goods can bring in substantial profits. When the envoys return home, we must establish the first caravan. With them leading the way, it will save us a lot of trouble."

Hearing that the emperor had assigned this task to the Ministry of Revenue, Jiang Jing quickly rose to receive the decree.

After the ministers of various ministries took their leave, Zhang Yang sent someone to summon Le He.

Le He, nicknamed "Iron-Called Le He," had risen from a lowly jailer in Dengzhou to a centurion in the Imperial Guard, enjoying great success. As a close bodyguard of the emperor, he commanded respect from all officials. Le He was naturally devoted to Zhang Yang, the man who had changed everything for him. Upon hearing the emperor's summons, he immediately hurried to the imperial study.

Zhang Yang gestured for Le He to sit down and said with a smile, "I have summoned you here today because I hope you will take charge of the royal fleet. The royal fleet specializes in foreign trade. It mainly sells tribute goods to foreign countries and buys rare and exotic items from them. The annual trade volume is at least several million strings of cash, which is not something an ordinary person can do. I know you are calm and resourceful, and I hope you will take charge of this fleet. What do you think?"

Upon hearing that it was at least several million strings of cash, Le He said with concern, "Originally, Your Majesty instructed me not to consider it, but with such a large scale, I am afraid I am not up to the task."

Zhang Yang patted Le He on the shoulder and laughed, "I have confidence in you, so you should have confidence in yourself too." Le

He, flattered, straightened his back. Seeing the emperor's trust in him, he felt a surge of loyalty and decided to die for his confidant. He bowed deeply and said, "Since Your Majesty trusts me so much, I will certainly do my utmost to repay Your Majesty's kindness."

Zhang Yang was quite confident in Le He's abilities. Besides, overseas trade, barring natural disasters, was almost always profitable. Moreover, the royal fleet's goods were unique tribute items, making it an absolute seller's market.

Zhang Yang helped Le He up, walked to the desk, pointed to the Southeast Asian coast, and said, "For this first voyage, we should first accumulate experience. We can sail along the mainland coast and trade with the coastal countries. After the envoys from Champa and Zhenla arrive in a few days, you can ask them what kinds of goods are easy to sell, and then give the Ministry of Revenue a list, which they will prepare for you. You can also give the envoys from the two countries a ride back home. With their help, trade between these two countries will be easier. In addition, you should draw detailed nautical charts along the route for our ships to navigate."

Le He breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing that the envoys from the two countries would lead the way. At least this way, they wouldn't be completely clueless when they set out.

"Countries should not dare to attack our merchant ships, but we must also guard against pirate harassment. You can dispatch

a thousand-man squad for escort, and then select two hundred-man squads from the Imperial Guard for close protection...

The Imperial Guard is the emperor's personal bodyguard and a symbol of the royal family. Throughout history, only a few favored ministers or important meritorious officials have had the privilege of enjoying their protection a few times.

As a centurion of the Imperial Guard, Le He naturally knows that the current Imperial Guard has never protected anyone. If he were to take the lead, it would certainly be something to be proud of, but it would also attract criticism.

Le He quickly said, "How dare I, a mere centurion, trouble the Imperial Guard for protection? Moreover, the borders are not peaceful, and His Majesty likes to personally lead the troops. I am already ashamed that I cannot personally protect him, how dare I also trouble His Majesty's Imperial Guard."

Zhang Yang laughed and said, "With my skills, why would I need your protection? The royal fleet also represents the royal majesty, so using the Imperial Guard is perfectly justifiable." "My mind is made up. Go and select two hundred-man teams later. But you mustn't act recklessly. If unforeseen circumstances arise, you can abandon the cargo to save your lives. Once on board, no ship in the world can catch up with our Celestial Empire's ships."

"Even if I lose my life, I can't lose my goods."

Seeing the Emperor's care for him, Le He secretly made up his mind.

Zhang Yang, seeing Le He's resolute expression, knew his thoughts and smiled, "You must also cherish my Imperial Guards. If even one of them is lost, I will have to ask you about it."

Le He saw the Emperor's amused look and knew his thoughts had been seen through. He awkwardly said, "Your Majesty, rest assured."

...

On the thirteenth day of the first month, envoys from the three kingdoms of Champa arrived in the capital.

The next day, Zhang Yang hosted a banquet for the envoys in the Jiying Hall.

On the fifteenth, the envoys formally presented their credentials, requesting to become vassal states. 16...

"King Yang Bu Ma Die of Champa humbly presented his memorial to the Emperor of the Celestial Empire."

Your Majesty, with utmost humility, declares that under the sacred and omnipotent rule of the Celestial Emperor, all under heaven is your land, and all within your borders are your subjects, just as sunflowers bow to the sun, and all people of the world revere the imperial dignity of the Celestial Empire.

Although Your Majesty reigns in the distant and desolate city of Champa, Your Majesty, I am deeply grateful for the boundless grace of Your Majesty, for You have embraced our nation within the territory of Yu the Great.

According to custom, by presenting the prescribed tribute to Your Majesty, Champa can be brought under Your Majesty's protection and join the roar of praise for Your Majesty the Emperor from Mount Song.

Hearing that Your Majesty has unified the Central Plains, it is now time for Your Majesty's vassal kings to present tribute. Therefore, we respectfully inscribe this memorial in gold, and present with a portrait of the God of Longevity, five tamed elephants, and other domestically made goods. These tributes will be escorted by a special envoy on behalf of Your Majesty to the gates of the royal palace.

We humbly hope that His Majesty the Great Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty will condescend to accept our tribute and kindly listen to the sentiments of your subjects regarding their obedience, respect, and humility. As I write this memorial, my entire being is filled with indescribable joy and gratitude.

At the end of this memorial, I sincerely wish His Majesty the Great Emperor a long life!

Zhang Yang patiently listened to the Champa envoy's humorous letter of state and laughed, "I accept the tribute from the King of Champa. From this day forward, Champa is a vassal state of the Celestial Dynasty, under my protection. I hereby appoint Yang Buma as King of Champa, a hereditary title. I bestow upon him a court robe and a set of porcelain from each of the five great kilns: Ding, Ru, Guan, Ge, and Jun." "

Originally, emperors of past dynasties often bestowed gold, silver, and silk upon vassal states, with the gifts frequently exceeding the value of the tribute. Zhang Yang, of course, would not engage in such a losing business, so the gifts changed from gold and silver to porcelain. Of course, porcelain from the five great kilns was extremely rare even abroad, and Zhang Yang's gifts were tribute items, invaluable and representing the emperor's favor and royal treatment—far beyond the reach of gold and silver. As long as the official kilns maintained their technological monopoly, these tribute items could be produced continuously. It was a brilliant strategy—both dignified and highly profitable. Zhang Yang's descendants inherited this tradition.

The letters from Zhenla and Bagan were similar; if this hadn't been held in the imperial court, everyone would likely have been laughing hysterically. Zhenla's tribute consisted of one hundred ivory tusks, one hundred rhinoceros horns, ten thousand catties of pepper, and fifty thousand catties of sappanwood, while Bagan contributed..." A thousand catties of gold leaves, a thousand catties of silver leaves. Zhang Yang then bestowed gifts upon the two countries in accordance with Champa's standards. It could be said that Zhang Yang made a fortune from these three countries' tributes alone...

Chapter 87 The Lantern Festival

The three countries no longer needed to worry about the Celestial Empire's military might, and the Celestial Empire also obtained a large amount of priceless tributes without bloodshed. It could be said that everyone was happy.

Le He had also visited the envoys of Champa and Zhenla. When the envoys of the two countries heard that Le He was in charge of the royal fleet, they naturally dared not neglect him and quickly compiled a list full of popular Southeast Asian goods.

The Ministry of Revenue also got to work. The national treasury was full of tributes, and after a selection, they could be loaded onto the ships at any time. The first voyage was only along the coastline, and there were plenty of ships available. Everything was ready. After the envoys of the three countries watched the Lantern Festival, the fleet could set sail at any time.

Zhang Yang dealt with a few more political matters and then had the elephants from Champa's tribute brought to the front of the hall for everyone to admire.

"They are truly magnificent." "

When I was studying, I only knew that elephants had long trunks, but I never imagined they could be this long."

...

In ancient times, when transportation was inconvenient, most of the court officials had never seen an elephant before. Upon seeing a real elephant, they exclaimed in surprise.

Zhang Yang, having seen elephants in modern times, was not surprised. After letting everyone watch for a while, he ordered the animal trainers from Champa to drive the elephant to the imperial garden. When

Zhang Yang returned to Yanfu Palace, he found the seven women, Wen Lian and Xiao Qiao, in the hall, gesturing excitedly and talking.

Zhang Yang was quite satisfied with the harmony among the seven women; if they were constantly scheming against each other, he wouldn't dote on them so much. Of course, this was also related to Zhang Yang's domineering nature. Knowing that Zhang Yang couldn't tolerate any dissent, anyone who tried to use underhanded tactics would only be asking for trouble.

As Xiao Qiao was talking, she saw Zhang Yang return. Immediately, she pounced on Zhang Yang with a move called "Swallows Returning to Their Nest."

Zhang Yang quickly hugged Xiao Qiao and laughed, "What great news do you have to tell me?"

Xiao Qiao looked at Zhang Yang pitifully and said in a mournful voice, "We haven't toured the capital yet. The last few times you came back, you only stayed briefly before leaving again. We finally have some free time this time, and today is the Lantern Festival. We all want to go out and have some fun, is that alright?"

Zhang Yang looked at Xiao Qiao's pitiful expression and kneaded her pert buttocks a few times. He laughed and said, "Let's go then. Why pretend like this?"

Upon hearing this, Xiao Qiao immediately exclaimed with joy, "Does His Majesty agree to go with us?"

Zhang Yang laughed and said, "I was originally thinking of taking you out of the palace when the weather was warmer. Since you want to go today, let's set off. But you all have to change into men's clothing, otherwise, a group of beauties like you will definitely cause a traffic jam, and we won't be able to enjoy ourselves."

Fang Baihua and Hua Yu looked at her already somewhat protruding belly and couldn't help but look at each other in disbelief. How could she dress up as a man like that?

Seeing the two women's expressions, Zhang Yang laughed, "There are plenty of people with figures more exaggerated than yours, don't worry about being exposed. Just find a couple of loose-fitting clothes. You two get ready first, I'll go find some guards to protect you when we get out, so you won't get bumped into."

Xiao Qiao also laughed, "Let's all pretend to be rich young masters, with guards as our followers. That's so much fun. Xiao Yue, hurry up and find some clothes, we're leaving the palace. Oh. Right, we also need to put on makeup."

Seeing that Xiao Qiao seemed more interested in makeup than leaving the palace, the women looked at each other and hurriedly went to do their own makeup, afraid that Xiao Qiao would only make things worse.

Zhang Yang wasn't familiar with Tokyo either, so he had the Golden Spearman Xu Ning take a few former imperial guards. These guards had lived in Tokyo all their lives and knew the city like the back of their hand.

Around noon, the group quietly blended into the crowd of tourists in the city through a side gate of the palace. 16. Station. 6.

The group had just entered the Imperial Street when they were attracted by the magnificent Fanlou Restaurant at the street entrance.

Hearing the music and drums inside, Xiao Qiao couldn't help but walk towards the building.

Zhang Yang still remembered this largest entertainment venue in Tokyo, which he had visited with San Niang before. Seeing Xiao Qiao heading towards Fanlou, he quickly grabbed her and said, "It's already noon. Let's eat first and then play."

The servants at the entrance of Fanlou saw several brightly dressed young men standing at the door, with Xu Ning and his group of men subtly protecting them. They assumed they were young masters from out of town visiting the capital.

A waiter trotted over, boasting, "Gentlemen, is this your first time in the capital? You've chosen the right place! Of the seventy-two reputable restaurants in Dongjing (Kaifeng), Fanlou is number one in everything—eating, drinking, and entertainment. At noon, we'll be holding our annual Lantern Festival Poetry Gathering. The winner will have the chance to enjoy the evening fireworks show with Miss Shishi. Gentlemen like you are all quite dashing; if you participate in the poetry gathering, you're sure to win first place. A talented scholar and a beautiful woman together for the festival will surely become a legendary tale. If you're interested in participating in this spring's imperial examinations, perhaps you'll gain some unexpected benefits."

Zhang Yang, hearing this, asked curiously, "What do you mean by unexpected benefits?"

The waiter had only mentioned it casually, not expecting Zhang Yang to ask. Fortunately, he was quick-witted and smiled, "Miss Shishi has many connections with contemporary literary figures. If you could get some guidance from them, wouldn't that be a great gain?"

Hearing this, Zhang Yang understood. If cheating occurred on the first attempt at the imperial examinations, he might have to clean up the officialdom again.

Xiao Qiao had already clearly seen the two large, gilded characters "Fanlou" at the entrance. Having come from a brothel, she was well aware of this prestigious establishment and, as a former top courtesan of the north, felt a certain resentment. She wanted to see for herself why Fanlou had maintained its unparalleled beauty and dominance for so many years.

While Zhang Yang was talking to the waiter, Xiao Qiao quietly made her way towards Fanlou.

Seeing this, the waiter, fearing Zhang Yang and his companions might turn back, called out, "Eight distinguished guests."

Seeing her scheme had succeeded, Xiao Qiao turned back to Zhang Yang, sticking out her tongue, and said, "Fanlou is also a famous scenic spot in Dongjing (Kaifeng). Let's tour Fanlou first."

Seeing that the die was cast, Zhang Yang had no choice but to follow the others into Fanlou.

Li Shishi, from her early days, was renowned for both her beauty and talent, becoming a sought-after figure by scholars, gentlemen, and princes. However, after catching the eye of Emperor Huizong, she became his exclusive concubine. With the fall of the dynasty, Li Shishi lost her patrons and her influence returned. Many former patrons and newly rich officials quickly spent large sums to become her lovers, bringing substantial profits to Fanlou.

The first and second floors of Fanlou were packed, so people had to pay 100 strings of cash to go to a private room on the third floor.

The main hall was filled with young scholars, who waited with a few cups of wine, hoping to win the beauty's heart with their literary talent at the poetry gathering. The exceptionally talented Li Shishi was quite alluring to these self-assured and romantic scholars, but normally it cost 100 taels of silver for a night with this former dynasty's beauty, an expense beyond the reach of these poor scholars. Only this annual poetry gathering offered them such an opportunity.

The first and second floors were mostly occupied by wealthy young men or simply by middle-class gentry who came to watch the spectacle. The third floor housed truly wealthy and powerful families, as well as literary figures and dignitaries invited by Fanlou.

Zhang Yang had ordered a table full of fine food and drink, and they were enjoying themselves when the madam announced the start of the poetry gathering. A stunningly beautiful woman appeared on the central stage. Dressed in white, with light makeup, every smile and gesture was as captivating as ever.

"After being nourished by men, this Li Shishi is even more radiant,"

Zhang Yang thought maliciously, looking at Li Shishi, whose beauty surpassed even that of her younger days.

The original major owner of Fanlou was the insatiable Cai Jing. After the fall of the Song Dynasty, the major shareholder of Fanlou quietly became the imperial court, though this fact did not become public knowledge. As one of the few profitable businesses for the imperial court, Zhang Yang had naturally examined Fanlou's accounts and knew that Li Shishi had become a cash cow.

After playing a tune, Li Shishi announced in a clear voice, "I am fortunate to have invited the contemporary literary giant, Chao Chongzhi, to serve as the judge for today's poetry gathering."

Chao Chongzhi came from a prominent literary family in the Northern Song Dynasty. His cousins, Chao Buzhi, Chao Shuozhi, and Chao Zhenzhi, were all renowned writers of the previous dynasty. Due to intense factional strife in the previous court, the Chao brothers were all exiled and demoted. He then went into seclusion on Juci Mountain in Yangdi, adopting the pseudonym Juci. After more than ten years of seclusion, he returned to Bianjing (Kaifeng), where Emperor Huizong wanted to appoint him, but he refused. Many of his works have been passed down, making him a great master of his time.

Upon hearing that this literary giant would be the judge, the young talents in the hall immediately cheered.

Seeing this, Li Shishi said, "Since everyone has no objections, then let's invite Mr. Chao to set the topic."

Zhang Yang had heard of Chao Chongzhi's reputation before. Looking around, he saw a lean, white-haired old man already on the stage, dressed in simple clothes, exuding an otherworldly air.

Chao Chongzhi walked to the center of the stage, stroked his long beard, and said, "Last year, His Majesty's southern and northern campaigns achieved feats no less impressive than the Tang and Han dynasties, and the country is beginning to show signs of a prosperous era. Today, we will use the Lantern Festival as the topic. Everyone, please use your talents and compose a poem or a lyric within the time limit of one incense stick's burning. Then, I will decide, and the winner will be able to spend the festival with Miss Shishi."

Upon hearing this, the young talents in the hall immediately began to ponder deeply. Many of them had already written poems or lyrics for the topic, and they quickly began to write. 16…

Seeing this, Xiao Qiao was also inspired and laughed, "Let's all compose a poem, and the winner will have to do as she says today."

Hearing this, Hu Sanniang quickly said, "Sister, this question is unfair. Baihua and I are only good at martial arts; we certainly can't compete with you in poetry. It would be better to give another question."

Xiao Qiao, fearing the others would also refuse, laughed, "It's just a game. The winner certainly won't make things difficult for the others. Sister, just accept one."

Zhang Yang also laughed, "Then let's do as Xiao Qiao says. I already have a poem; listen carefully. '

The east wind releases a thousand trees of flowers at night, and blows down stars like rain. Fragrant carriages and jeweled horses fill the road, the sound of phoenix flutes stirs, the jade pot shines, and fish and dragons dance all night.

Moths, willows, and golden threads, laughter and fragrance linger. I searched for him a thousand times in the crowd, and suddenly, turning around, I found him there, in the dim light.

' What do you think?"

The women didn't pay much attention to the first half; the beautiful words were merely to depict the lively scene of the Lantern Festival. It was only the second half that truly moved them.

Beautiful women, their hair disheveled and elaborately made up, walked by one after another, but none of them were the one she cared about. It seemed hopeless, yet suddenly, she saw, under a dim lamp in a corner, the one she had been searching for and waiting for among millions. It turned out that she, too, seemed to be waiting in this desolate place. In that instant, it was the condensation and sublimation of so many experiences in life, a bittersweet gratitude and understanding…

Chapter 88: Reencounter with Shi

Shi Seeing the women immersed in the poetic scene, Yang was secretly pleased. "Xin Qiji's poems are considered the best of the Lantern Festival by later generations. If that doesn't shock you, then I've been a literary thief for nothing!"

"What a fine poem! The wording is exquisite, and its spirit is vigorous and soaring, truly the best of all. It can rival Su Weidao's (historical records mention both Su Weidao and Su Daowei, but let's just call it Su Weidao) Lantern Festival poem. After this poem, no one dares to write another for the Lantern Festival."

With Xin Qiji's poem, Zhang Yang knew victory was assured. He couldn't be sure if his descendants, influenced by his own work, could surpass it, but no one in his time could. Just as he was pondering how to amuse the women, he heard a shout of praise from outside the window. Turning around, he saw Chao Chongzhi.

It turned out that Zhang Yang and the others had opened the window to observe the scene in the hall. After setting the topic, Chao Chongzhi was on his way to find his old friend Lü Benzhong for a few drinks when he passed Zhang Yang's private room and heard Xin Qiji's masterpiece. After a moment of contemplation, he couldn't help but cheer.

Zhang Yang was also aware of "The Fifteenth Night of the First Month," later considered the finest poem for the Lantern Festival, with its lines "The fire trees and silver flowers merge, the star bridge and iron locks open," which were frequently quoted. Xin Qiji's poem and Su Weidao's poem were indeed the two best of the Lantern Festival, but now that it had been plagiarized, Zhang Yang couldn't help but feel a little apologetic. Fortunately, Xin Qiji had many excellent works, and his own plagiarism wouldn't bury them.

Zhang Yang cupped his hands and said, "It's just a playful piece, unworthy of your praise, sir."

Chao Chongzhi laughed and said, "Young brother, you are too modest. Such a masterpiece is enough to be passed down through the ages. Young brother, you are highly talented; would you be willing to share a drink with this old man?"

Currently, the court lacked talent, and Zhang Yang also wanted to invite him to serve in the government. However, since it was his first time out with the women, he couldn't very well break his promise, so he said, "Thank you for your kindness, sir, but I have some things to take care of today. I will definitely pay you a visit another day when I have time, and I hope you won't refuse to see me."

Upon hearing this, Chao Chongzhi couldn't help but show a hint of disappointment, but he couldn't force the issue on their first meeting. He could only say, "Then I'll be waiting for you. I live in First Sweetwater Lane. When you get there, you can easily find my place by asking around."

Zhang Yang nodded and said, "I will definitely pay you a visit within three to five days. I have other matters to attend to today and will not be participating in the poetry gathering, so please keep this a secret."

Chao Chongzhi was also a guest of Li Shishi, and seeing that Zhang Yang, at such a young age, was not bewitched by Li Shishi, he couldn't help but feel even more favorably disposed towards him. He chuckled, "I understand. Miss Shishi is here, so I won't disturb you any longer. See you another day."

Zhang Yang also cupped his hands and said, "Please take care, sir."

Li Shishi and Chao Chongzhi left the stage together, preparing to return to their rooms to rest, when they saw Chao Chongzhi standing at the window of a private room, listening for a while, and actually praising someone. Li Shishi had known Chao Chongzhi for a long time and knew that he had very high standards; there were very few scholars who could be praised by him. She didn't expect to meet one today. She immediately walked over out of curiosity.

When Chao Chongzhi saw Li Shishi approaching, he smiled and said, "Shishi, aren't you going to rest? Where are you going?"

Li Shishi giggled and said, "I was a little slow. I just overheard your praise, sir. May I ask who this talented person is in this room?"

Chao Chongzhi then realized that Zhang Yang hadn't left his name, but considering his respectful manner and the fact that he would be visiting again in a few days, he wasn't offended. He smiled and said, "We haven't had a chance to talk in depth yet. That young man has something to do today and will visit the old man another day. The winner of today's poetry competition has already been decided, but unfortunately, he doesn't have time to spend the festival with you."

Seeing Chao Chongzhi's certainty that no one could surpass the guest in the private room, Li Shishi couldn't help but ask curiously, "To receive such high praise from you, sir, yesterday must have been extraordinary. Did Shishi have the honor of hearing it?"

Upon hearing this, Chao Chongzhi recalled for a moment and once again captivated her with Xin Qiji's "Green Jade Table."

"I searched for him a thousand times in the crowd, then suddenly turning around, I found him where the clouds were dim. Where is he?"

Li Shishi murmured upon hearing the last line.

Born into a lowly family, she spent her days welcoming and seeing off guests, hoping to find someone she could entrust her heart to. She had befriended Zhou Bangyan and Chao Chongzhi, but both were too old to be her life partner.

Seeing Li Shishi's dejected expression, Chao Chongzhi sighed, "A good match is hard to find, especially after so many years in the brothel. If I were a few decades younger, I would surely redeem you, but alas..."

"Alas," he continued, "the lyricist is young and handsome, and incredibly talented. If you could become a couple, it would be a good match. Why don't you go in and see if fate allows?"

Although Chao Chongzhi admired Li Shishi's charming personality, he pitied her tragic fate even more. He offered this suggestion and then went to find his old friend, Lü Benzhong.

Zhang Yang, with his keen hearing, overheard the two talking outside the window and felt a chill run down his spine. This Li Shishi was already quite

the womanizer; while he himself was open-minded, he hadn't been this open. So,

despite his literary and martial talents, Zhang Yang couldn't think of a way to stop her from entering and could only secretly pray she would leave.

Unfortunately, things rarely go as planned. Li Shishi pondered for a moment outside the window, then gritted her teeth, knocked on the door, and said, "This humble servant, Li Shishi, has come to pay a visit. Is it convenient?"

The other women of Wenlian were astonished to hear that Li Shishi had come uninvited.

Only Xiao Qiao wanted to see this stunning courtesan up close. Before Zhang Yang could speak, she interrupted, "Sister, please come in quickly."

Li Shishi entered the room and saw the guards standing at the door and around the walls. She couldn't help but sigh inwardly. She had seen many servants and guards, but none could compare to these people; it was clear that the people in this room were no ordinary nobles. With her past as a withered flower, she had no chance of entering those wealthy and powerful families.

Li Shishi, no longer interested in the people seated there, bowed gracefully and said, "This humble servant, Li Shishi, was just passing by when I heard the great performance in the pavilion. I apologize for disturbing you gentlemen."

Seeing this, Zhang Yang could no longer avoid her and had to rise, saying, "A stroke of genius! I have long heard of Miss Shishi's beauty. To be able to see your face is already a great honor; how could I dare to blame you?"

Li Shishi also wanted to see who could create such a masterpiece. Looking up, she couldn't help but ask doubtfully, "Young master, have we met before?"

Hearing this, the women all looked at Zhang Yang with suspicion.

Zhang Yang hadn't expected that Li Shishi would remember him, even though he had only met her once on the street during the Lantern Festival last year. While not afraid of the women's jealousy, he also didn't want to cause any trouble. Upon hearing this, he quickly denied it, saying, "No, I rarely come to the capital. I've only ever heard of Miss Shishi and have never had the chance to meet her. I suppose Miss Shishi must have misremembered."

Li Shishi was very confident in her memory; once she met someone, it was rare for her to forget them. Seeing Zhang Yang's firm denial, she knew he had no interest in her, so she forced a smile and said, "I suppose I've misremembered. I heard you were making a great noise, so I took the liberty of coming in. I wanted to have a long talk with you, but unfortunately, there are many things to attend to outside, so I'll take my leave now."

Xiao Qiao, hearing this, quickly said, "Sister, what's the rush? Let's chat a bit more before you leave."

Hearing Xiao Qiao's clear voice, Li Shishi looked up and her eyes lit up. What a handsome young man! She had seen many self-proclaimed romantics, but compared to this man, they were worlds apart.

Wait, she was a woman

disguised as a man. Li Shishi, with her vast experience in judging people, was not like the aging and senile Chao Chongzhi. A quick glance was enough for her to see through Xiao Qiao's disguise.

Looking at the others, Li Shishi realized that apart from the somewhat familiar lyricist, the rest were all women dressed as men.

Seeing the seven beautiful women, even in men's clothing, Li Shishi knew she was no match for them, a withered flower. She said sadly, "I had no choice but to be here, causing you distress. Perhaps another day we can have a long talk."

Da Qiao, seeing that Zhang Yang hadn't participated in the poetry gathering, knew he wasn't interested in Li Shishi and, fearing her sister might act on her own and upset him, quickly interjected, "Since Miss Shishi has other matters to attend to, we won't keep you any longer."

After Li Shishi left, Zhang Yang, not wanting to cause further trouble, ate a little with everyone and then said, "We've all tasted the food at Fanlou, let's go. Otherwise, if something else happens, it won't look good if word gets out that the Emperor is taking his concubines to a brothel."

Wen Lian hadn't wanted to come to this place of debauchery, but she didn't want to offend Xiao Qiao, so she reluctantly came along. Hearing this, she echoed, "Your Majesty is absolutely right. Let's leave quickly so we can visit a few more places."

The other women, seeing that the Empress rarely spoke, naturally had no objections. Xiao Qiao was about to speak when she saw her sister glare at her fiercely, so she stuck out her tongue and shut her mouth.

As the group left Fanlou, Zhang Yang said, "Xu Ning, you're familiar with Dongjing (Kaifeng). Where should we go first?"

Xu Ning replied, "Bianjing has eight famous scenic spots: Fantai Spring Dawn, Iron Pagoda Clouds, Golden Pond Rain, Zhou Bridge Bright Moon, Great River Waves, Bian River Autumn Wind, Sui Embankment Willows, and Xiangguo Frost Bell. The specific destination is up to His Majesty."

Zhang Yang had heard Lu Zhishen mention the grandeur of the Xiangguo Temple, but he hadn't expected it to be one of the eight scenic spots of Bianjing. He immediately smiled and said, "Then let's go to the Xiangguo Temple." (

Chapter 89: The Marriage of Shishi

) The Xiangguo Temple was first built in the sixth year of the Tianbao era of the Northern Qi Dynasty (555). It reached its peak during the Northern Song Dynasty, encompassing four Chan and Vinaya academies, covering an area of...

Emperor Taizong, Emperor Yingzong, and Emperor Huizong of the Song Dynasty successively inscribed plaques or wrote eulogies for the temple; the appointment and resignation of the abbots of the various academies were also approved by imperial edict. Whenever an abbot took office, the emperor would send an imperial envoy to offer incense, a ceremony known as "opening the hall for the country." Its status was at its zenith for a time. Later, Emperor Huizong favored Taoism, and the emperor's favor waned slightly, but due to its long history, it remained one of the ten most famous Buddhist temples.

After the founding of the Celestial Empire, most temple disciples were given to the common people. However, the Xiangguo Temple remained prosperous and did not decline.

The "Frost Bell" refers to the temple's bronze bell, which rings every day at the fourth watch. People rise at the sound of the bell to go to court and the market, embarking on a new day. It never stops, enduring wind, rain, frost, and snow. Especially in late autumn, when chrysanthemums bloom and frost falls, striking the bronze bell vigorously produces a powerful and resounding sound that echoes throughout the city. Hence, it is known as the "Frost Bell of Xiangguo."

The Hall of Heavenly Kings, the Great Buddha Hall, and the Hall of Arhats are all resplendent in gold and green. The Hall of Arhats, also known as the "Octagonal Glazed Tile Hall," boasts a unique octagonal corridor-style structure, a rare and distinctive feature. Inside the hall's corridors are large group statues depicting "Sakyamuni's Sermon," depicting figures moving amidst mountains and forests, or by streams and bridges, sitting or reclining, heads raised or lowered, their lifelike forms and captivating charm making them true works of art.

North of the Hall of Heavenly Kings lies a garden with artificial hills, its elegant scenery reminiscent of the line, "A winding path leads to a secluded spot, where flowers and trees surround the Zen room." After a long day of sightseeing, one can rest there before continuing.

There is also the Zisheng Pavilion, originally named Paiyun Hall, built during the Tianbao era of the Tang Dynasty. Standing 300 meters tall with five eaves, it was magnificent and imposing. In summer, it was a popular spot for cooling off, known as the "Zisheng Gentle Breeze." Unfortunately, this pavilion was destroyed in 162 AD by a flood of the Yellow River. Therefore, it was removed from the list of the Eight Scenic Spots of Bianjing.

Zhang Yang and the women lingered at the Xiangguo Temple for more than two hours without realizing it. As the crowds grew, Zhang Yang, fearing that Hua Yu and the other woman might get hurt in the jostling

, led the group out of the temple. Seeing that the women seemed reluctant to leave, Zhang Yang smiled and said, "We've only visited one of the Eight Scenic Spots of Bianjing. There's no need to be so reluctant to part. I'll take you out again when things at court are a little less busy."

Xiao Qiao jumped forward. Clutching Zhang Yang's arm, she said sweetly, "You said it yourself, you can't go back on your word."

Zhang Yang gently flicked Xiao Qiao's nose and laughed, "My word is law, I will never go back on my word. Alright, where shall we go next?"

Wen Lian had already thought of something and said, "Many of the Eight Scenic Spots of Bianjing are in season. Right now, only the Iron Pagoda with its 'Floating Clouds' is suitable for viewing. Why don't we go there for a visit? Then Your Majesty still has to return to the palace to prepare for the evening party."

Wen Lian, who had gone from a poor girl to the Empress, had always felt somewhat apprehensive, never forgetting

her duties as Empress. Although Zhang Yang often tried to make her life easier, she never forgot her responsibilities, and she was gentle and kind. Zhang Yang also cherished the gentle Empress, always supporting her and dispelling any thoughts of other women vying for the Empress's position.

Zhang Yang laughed, "Then let's go to the Iron Pagoda. Xu Ning

, lead the way." Xu Ning suggested, "The Iron Pagoda is in the northeast corner of the city, quite a distance from here. The streets are also noisy with people and horses. Why not hire a few carriages?"

Zhang Yang nodded, "Alright, then go find a few carriages." It

was the Lantern Festival, and the area was teeming with tourists. Xu Ning went to several carriage rental shops but returned empty-handed. Finally, he used his guard's token to find five carriages.

Kaibao Temple was also packed with people; carriages and horses could no longer pass within several hundred meters of the temple. The laws of the new dynasty were strict, and even the usually ostentatious nobles had become much more restrained. Zhang Yang and his companions, not wanting to attract attention, had no choice but to get out of the carriage and walk into the temple.

As soon as they got out, they could see a towering, iron-colored pagoda piercing the clouds, standing atop Yishan Mountain.

Xiao Qiao looked up at the iron tower hidden in the white clouds and couldn't help but sigh, "It's so tall! I wonder if this iron tower is taller than the Zisheng Pavilion of the Great Xiangguo Temple."

Xu Ning smiled and said, "This iron tower is only a little over 160 feet tall, while the Zisheng Pavilion is 300 feet. However, the iron tower is built on Yishan Mountain, which gives it a slight advantage in location, so it's a notch taller than the Zisheng Pavilion. Hence the saying, 'The iron tower floats on the clouds, while the

Zisheng Pavilion is bathed in the gentle breeze.'" Kaibao Temple was not as grand as the Great Xiangguo Temple, and there were many tourists. Zhang Yang and his group went straight to Fusheng Zen Temple in the west of the temple. When they arrived at the iron tower, they felt even more impressed by its majesty.

The iron tower is an equilateral octagon with thirteen stories, 55 feet high. It is covered with glazed tiles, and the tile surface has 50 patterns including Buddha statues, flying apsaras, musicians, dragons, qilin, and flowers. It is tall and ornately decorated, like a pillar supporting the sky, rising from the ground and piercing the air with a majestic air. White clouds gently brushed past the top, and the hanging bells tinkled in the air. Standing at the foot of the tower and looking up at the top, one could see the blue sky above and white clouds swirling around its waist—a magnificent sight.

Zhang Yang noticed a money box in front of the Iron Pagoda, guarded by two monks, much like a modern tourist attraction's entrance fee booth. He asked, "Does one have to pay to climb the tower?"

Xu Ning nodded and said, "The Iron Pagoda is world-famous; who wouldn't want to climb it and see the entire city of Bianjing? If there were no restrictions, it would probably have been trampled to pieces long ago. The temple had to come up with the method of charging one string of cash per person, but all proceeds would be donated to repair roads and build bridges."

China has always had a large population, and therefore...

It couldn't be implemented well. Even a thousand years later, the government was forced to implement too many welfare policies.

Zhang Yang felt relieved upon hearing this, and gestured for Xu Ning to pay the fire money. The group then entered the Iron Tower.

Inside the tower, there was a spiral staircase leading up to the top.

Xu Ning followed behind, explaining, "From the fifth floor, you can see the entire city. From the seventh floor, you can see the suburban farmland and the city's moat. From the ninth floor, you can see the Yellow River like a ribbon. From the twelfth floor, you feel as if you're surrounded by auspicious clouds and a gentle breeze, as if you've stepped into a dream world. Hence, it's called the Iron Tower 'Walking in the Clouds.'"

Zhang Yang laughed upon hearing this, "Then let's go straight to the fifth floor."

When the group reached the fifth floor, they exited the tower's observation deck. Just outside the deck, they saw two people embracing each other by the railing.

"Miss Shishi, what brings you here?"

Zhang Yang saw Li Shishi nestled in a man's arms and didn't want to disturb them, but the young and impulsive Xiao Qiao had already called out, so he had no choice but to go over with the others.

Li Shishi turned around and saw Zhang Yang and the others, a hint of shyness flashing across her face, but she remained calm and composed as she got up from Qin Zi's arms, smiling, "We were just saying we'd meet again sometime, and I didn't expect to run into you here again so soon."

"Perhaps this is fate. Has the poetry gathering ended?"

Seeing the sweet smile still on Li Shishi's face, Zhang Yang couldn't help but wonder who the man was, that he had managed to win Li Shishi's heart.

Li Shishi glanced sweetly at the man beside her and said, "Yes, this is the runner-up of today's poetry gathering."

Zhang Yang asked in surprise, "The runner-up?"

Li Shishi nodded and said, "The champion is you, young master. Although you don't participate in the poetry gathering, after hearing your excellent work, Mr. Chao only agreed to name you as the runner-up. Although Young Master Qin is named runner-up, he is also the first among the participants, so I am traveling with him."

Zhang Yang noticed that the "young master" beside Li Shishi was already over thirty years old, but had a handsome face.

Upon hearing that the imposing man before him was the author of that masterpiece, Qin Zi bowed and said, "I am Qin Zi from Jiangning, courtesy name Chucai. May I ask where you are from, sir?"

Hearing this, Zhang Yang couldn't help but think of someone, and instead of answering, asked, "Do you have a younger brother named Qin Hui?" Qin

Zi, recognizing Zhang Yang's accent as being from the Shandong region, and knowing his own brother had served as an official there, exclaimed with delight, "Sir, are you perhaps acquainted with my brother?"

Zhang Yang, upon learning that this man was indeed the elder brother of Qin Hui, the notorious traitor of the Southern Song Dynasty, was also overjoyed. He had only noticed him when researching Qin Hui's background, but he was quite different from Qin Hui; not only was he highly capable, but he was also a staunch advocate of resistance against the Jin Dynasty and a proponent of war. Later, disgusted by his brother's treason, he resolutely resigned from his official post and went into seclusion.

"No, I've only heard of your reputation as a talented brother, but I never expected to meet you today."

Qin Zi quickly replied, "Young master, you flatter us. We brothers are unworthy of the title of 'talented scholar,' especially in front of someone as brilliant as you. With your performance of 'Qing Yu An' today, your fame will spread throughout the country in just a few days. May I have the honor of spreading your name?"

Seeing that Qin Zi had asked for his name again, Zhang Yang didn't want to change the subject. He didn't hide anything and smiled, "I am the current emperor."

The current emperor is a god descended to earth, so noble and pure. Would he go to a brothel?

Qin Zi and Li Shishi looked at Zhang Yang with suspicion. Seeing this

, Zhang Yang took out a Nine Dragons Token and smiled, "Surely no one would dare to impersonate me?"

Seeing the golden token in Zhang Yang's hand, Qin Zi and Li Shishi knew that the person in front of them was indeed the emperor, and they quickly prepared to kneel down.

Zhang Yang, not wanting to attract a crowd, helped the two men up, saying, "Today I am traveling incognito, so you don't need to be so formal."

Qin Zi and the other man quickly thanked the emperor for the formalities, but they were still extremely respectful of this emperor who had created so many miracles, and dared not look him in the eye again.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang smiled and said, "Qin Zi is very knowledgeable. Would you mind introducing this Iron Pagoda to me?"

Upon hearing this, Qin Zi hurriedly replied, "It is my great honor to serve Your Majesty.

The Iron Pagoda was originally named Fusheng Pagoda. It was first built in the seventh year of the Taiping Xingguo era of the Song Dynasty (982) and completed in the second year of the Duangong era (989), taking seven years to complete. Unfortunately, the original pagoda was destroyed by lightning in the fourth year of the Qingli era of the Song Dynasty (044). The

current pagoda was rebuilt in the first year of the Huangyou era of the Song Dynasty (049). Because the color of the glazed bricks and tiles on the pagoda is like cast iron, it is called the Iron Pagoda."

Seeing that he was very reserved, Zhang Yang did not want to waste everyone's time. Pitying Li Shishi's fate, and seeing her sweet demeanor just now, he smiled and said, "I saw you and Miss Shishi were quite intimate just now. If you wish to redeem her, I can grant your wish."

Although Li Shishi had only just met Qin Zi, she was already attracted by his talent and wit. Hearing that there was now a chance to redeem her, she nervously looked at Qin Zi.

Qin Zi also admired Li Shishi's talent, and upon hearing this, he quickly knelt down and said, "If Shishi can be freed, this humble subject is willing to serve Your Majesty like a dog or a horse."

Seeing this, Li Shishi also quickly knelt down with Qin Zi.

Zhang Yang helped the two up and turned to Xu Ning beside him, saying, "Later, go with them to Fanlou to remove Shishi's status."

The two were overjoyed and had no desire to continue sightseeing. They immediately went with Xu Ning to remove Li Shishi's status...

Chapter Ninety: Lantern Festival Banquet

. The lanterns that had been hung since dusk reached their peak on the fifteenth.

As soon as the full moon rose, Bianjing City was filled with lanterns and music. Thousands of lanterns, as bright as stars, illuminated the city as if it were daytime. The bright moon hung overhead, accompanied only by a few scattered stars and drifting clouds, appearing more lonely than usual. Compared to the bustling scene below, the celestial radiance seemed far inferior to the fiery spectacle of the human world.

The scene was dazzling, like a dream.

The envoys from Liao and Jin had also arrived in the capital before the Lantern Festival to attend the celebrations, a convenient arrangement for both official and private purposes.

The Liao envoy, Li Chuwen, who had once redeemed prisoners, watched the fireworks exploding in the sky and, with a thought in mind, asked the Ministry of Rites official accompanying him, "What are these fireworks made of?"

Upon hearing this, the official, remembering the Emperor's ban on gunpowder, became wary and shook his head, saying, "They were made by the Ministry of Works; I don't know the specifics."

Zhao Mingcheng, the Minister of Rites, who was passing by, smiled approvingly at his caution before approaching the Emperor.

The official from the Ministry of Rites, delighted that his quick wit had earned him the appreciation of his superior, became even more cautious in his actions, eventually rising to the position of Vice Minister of Rites.

Life is like that; a seemingly insignificant detail can determine a person's future.

Seeing the cautiousness of the official from the Heavenly Dynasty's Ministry of Rites, Li Chuwen also observed the Jin Dynasty envoy beside him. He

wore golden bells in his ears, his forehead shaved bald, with only hair remaining at the back of his head, tied into a whip that hung down his back. Neither male nor female, he was even wearing animal skins—truly an uncivilized barbarian, probably unaware of the concept of "when in Rome, do as the Romans do."

Li Chuwen proudly looked at his well-dressed Hanfu, as if this made him superior to the Jin envoy.

Zhang Yang, meanwhile, and his concubines enjoyed the Lantern Festival fireworks. Today, several women from Dali and the women from the Yue-Li Kingdom had entered the city one after another, bringing with them a large amount of tribute. The tribute from both places greatly enriched the national treasury.

The Yue-Li Kingdom, except for a few Han Chinese, preserved... The rest were all enslaved, and the nation's wealth naturally went into the imperial treasury. Although the Yue Li Kingdom was relatively backward, its accumulated wealth over the generations was still considerable. The first shipment consisted entirely of valuable goods, with carts stretching for miles.

Dali was much wealthier than Yue Li. Although it did not purge the entire country, its nobles controlled most of the nation's wealth. Since most of the powerful nobles had been overthrown, Dali's tribute was no less than that of Yue Li.

Because of the large amount of goods being transported, the women lagged behind the envoys from the three kingdoms of Champa, but they still made it to the Lantern Festival.

Zhang Yang originally wanted the women from the two kingdoms to wear their own national costumes, but unfortunately, the climates of Dali and Yue Li were very different from Bianjing, with no harsh winters and no thick clothing, so they all had to wear Hanfu instead. However, even in Hanfu, they still exuded exotic charm, especially the Yue Li women with their slightly darker skin.

One, two, three. Three empresses! I believe the number will increase again soon. Someone is collecting artworks from various countries, so let's have a grand reunion of empresses from all over the world.

Looking at the former Song Dynasty empress and the empresses of Dali and Yue Li, Zhang Yang couldn't help but have an absurd and crazy idea

. Two quarters of an hour later, the fireworks ended, leaving only wisps of white smoke and the acrid smell of gunpowder in the air.

Zhang Yang announced that the imperial garden and part of the old palace would be open to the public for viewing, and then he led his concubines back to the palace first.

After the imperial procession departed, the officials and envoys from various countries went to the Jiying Hall for the Lantern Festival banquet.

As the banquet began, Zhang Yang announced that no political affairs would be discussed, only the celebration of the festival. The officials complied and spoke only of romantic matters.

The Jin Dynasty was founded by several tribes unwilling to submit to the oppression of the Liao Dynasty. While its core members were intelligent and brave, they lacked literary skills. Therefore, the chief envoy was the Han Chinese Li Shanqing. However, to prevent Li Shanqing from misleading the country, Wanyan Sandu and Da were appointed as deputy envoys to monitor him.

Sandu and Da did not speak Chinese and felt increasingly out of place seeing the people of the Celestial Empire watching them talk and laugh. They could only drink in silence. Halfway through their drinks, Sandu, his blood boiling, forgot the occasion, abruptly stood up, smashed his cup on the ground, and shouted, "If you're not satisfied, bring me a large bowl of strong liquor!"

The noisy hall instantly fell silent. Zhang Yang frowned upon seeing the barbaric Jin envoy. Everyone craned their necks to see who dared to be so disrespectful

before the emperor of the Celestial Empire, who was at the height of

his power. Li Shanqing was talking with the Minister of Rites who was attending him when he was surprised by San Du's rude behavior. He quickly rose and bowed, saying that the envoy had lost his composure due to being drunk and hoped that the emperor would forgive him. Zhang Yang waved his hand and said, "It's alright. What did he say? If he has any requests regarding the banquet, I will try my best to fulfill them." Li Shanqing was also afraid that Zhang Yang would misunderstand, so he said, "Our country's origin is bitterly cold, and to keep warm, our people like to drink strong liquor. San Du is not used to the imperial wine and requests that it be replaced with large bowls of strong liquor." Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang laughed and said, "I see. Guards, bring them the strongest liquor." Hehe, let's see how you manage to drink distilled liquor later. Zhang Yang watched as the palace maids placed the strong liquor, which even he dared not drink, on the table of the Jin envoys and poured them a bowl. Then he raised his cup and said, "The Jin envoys have come from afar with great difficulty. I toast you." Seeing this, Li Shanqing quickly stood up and raised his bowl. Zhang Yang, seeing San Du and Da's drooling expressions, couldn't help but find it even more amusing. "Today I'll show you what strong liquor is all about. " " Cheers!" " San Du and Da, smelling the strong aroma of the wine in their bowls, were already salivating. Seeing the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty toast, they couldn't wait to gulp it down. As soon as the wine entered their stomachs, a burning sensation filled their hearts. Before they could even savor it, the intense effects of the alcohol surged through them. The two swayed slightly, and without uttering a sound, they collapsed backward. Li Shanqing fared even worse, drinking half a bowl before collapsing onto the table. The envoys from Liao, Champa, and the other three kingdoms were dumbfounded to see the Jin envoy in such a state. Was there really such a strong wine, or was it not wine at all? The officials of the Celestial Dynasty all knew that the Emperor had distilled high-proof liquor, and Lu Da, Wu Song, and others also enjoyed drinking distilled spirits, but they had never tasted this strongest kind of wine. Because the Emperor had said that this kind of wine was harmful to the body; it wasn't wine, but alcohol, and one sip would make one fall asleep. Seeing the state of the envoys, Zhang Yang laughed and said, 'I didn't expect that even the Jin envoys couldn't handle this Immortal's Intoxication. Let's help them down to rest.'" The envoys from several countries breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing that it was wine. Li Chuwen, the Liao envoy, knew that people from the north had a high tolerance for alcohol, especially the Wanyan tribe in the far north, who lived in a perpetually frozen wasteland and could not survive without strong liquor. He was surprised to find that there was a wine in the world that could make them faint after just one sip. Nanjing's winters were also extremely cold; if he could obtain some to take back, dilute it slightly, and present to the emperor, he would surely receive a considerable reward. Thinking of this, Li Chuwen asked the official from the Ministry of Rites beside him, "What country brews this 'Immortal's Intoxication' wine? I've never heard of it before." The official from the Ministry of Rites bowed respectfully to the emperor and said, "It is brewed according to a method personally designed by Your Majesty. It is said to have come from the Heavenly Court, and even immortals get drunk after drinking it, hence the name 'Immortal's Intoxication'." Upon hearing this , Li Chuwen was taken aback. Superhuman martial arts skills, knowledge of brewing wine, and cannons invented by the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty—these were things no ordinary person could accomplish. Could this Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty truly be a god descended to earth? He himself was a Han Chinese, and seeing the Celestial Dynasty growing stronger while the Liao Dynasty was declining, what should he do? ... In the inner palace, Wen Lian hosted a banquet for the women, but by the time Zhang Yang returned, the banquet had already ended. Zhang Yang thought for a moment, then headed towards Xuexiang Pavilion, sending someone to summon the empresses of Dali and Yue Li. The former Song Dynasty empress, Consort Zheng, hadn't expected the emperor to visit her. She had already undressed and was preparing to sleep, but upon hearing of his arrival, she quickly put on a robe and went out to greet him. Her face was like a lotus blossom, her eyes expressive. Having drunk a little wine, Consort Zheng's jade-like face flushed, adding a touch of allure and lessening her solemnity. Beneath her thin silk undergarment was a bulging bodice. Zhang Yang stepped forward and embraced Consort Zheng, one hand already caressing her rounded buttocks, laughing, "Hurry back to your room, lest you catch a cold." Back in her room, Zhang Yang removed Consort Zheng's bodice. Two full, alluring breasts sprang forth. Zhang Yang played with the bright red cherries atop them, laughing, "The empresses of Dali and Yue Li will also be here later. I want to see who is the most beautiful." Upon hearing this, Zheng was taken aback, then coquettishly retorted, "Even when Your Majesty comes to my place, you can't forget about others." Zhang Yang chuckled and pinched Zheng's nipple, laughing, "The more the merrier! Besides, don't you want to see how foreigners are different from you?" ( Chapter 91 : The Empress of the Three Kingdoms was so weak from his caresses that she writhed like a snake in Zhang Yang's arms.) "It's not like I haven't seen those barbarians before. I've even seen blond-haired, blue-eyed foreigners from the far west." " As he spoke, Zhang Yang had already removed Zheng's underpants, revealing an alluring scene before his eyes. Her full, plump breasts, the slit slightly parted, revealed a rosy nipple. Zhang Yang gently flicked the nipple with his finger, and Zheng's entire body trembled violently, a fragrant, sweet juice gushing out, and she moaned with pleasure. "You've only seen the appearance of foreigners, maybe they're different from you when they take their clothes off." Zheng's small hand had already slipped quietly to Zhang Yang's crotch, stroking his already erect member, and she chuckled, "Your Majesty is fooling me again. No matter what country they're from, they all have the same nose and two eyes, what's the difference?" Zhang Yang grasped Zheng's trembling breasts with both hands, kneading them, making the two cherries on the peaks stand out even more, while teasing the already erect nipples with his thumb and forefinger.

Zheng's face was flushed, her breathing rapid, her head resting weakly on Zhang Yang's shoulder, making her long, slender, and beautiful neck appear even more striking. She felt waves of pleasure washing over her. Under Zhang Yang's skillful caresses, her sensitive nipples overflowed with nectar.

The exquisite touch fueled Zhang Yang's passion; her breasts were smooth, delicate, and round—a gift from heaven to women, and also a gift to men!

Zheng writhed uncomfortably in Zhang Yang's arms, her small hands involuntarily guiding his massive member towards her genitals. But the clothing between them only exacerbated her discomfort.

Looking at Zheng's hazy eyes, flushed cheeks, and alluring way of her lips, Zhang Yang's desire surged. He lowered his head and frantically sucked on her warm, red lips, his tongue secretly searching for her soft, fragrant tongue—his hands becoming even rougher.

Zheng's lust intensified by Zhang Yang's rough actions. Her delicate tongue eagerly entwined with his, engaging in a fierce "battle of words," while she turned to grope for his buttons.

Finally, a strong body was exposed, and Zheng impatiently grasped his fiery member, attempting to thrust it into her.

Zhang Yang, seeing Zheng's flushed face, abandoned her breasts and instead slid his hand towards her private parts, teasing her. He prevented her from succeeding.

Attacked from both ends, Zheng felt an even greater emptiness in her lower body, and could only look at Zhang Yang pleadingly.

Looking at her pitiful eyes, Zhang Yang laughed, "What do you want? Tell me, and I'll know."

Zheng blushed deeply, but ultimately couldn't resist the demands of her mature body, and whispered, "Your Majesty, I beg your favor."

Zhang Yang, seeing Zheng's shy appearance, moved his hands even faster. "I can't hear you, louder," she said.

"Your Majesty, I beg you to favor me." Zheng's sexy red lips trembled as she cried out words that made her blush, amidst the tingling sensation in her lower body.

Zhang Yang had no intention of letting Zheng off the hook. He frowned, feigning confusion, and chuckled, "Favor you? What do you mean by favor you?"

Feeling the fiery dragon in his hand, Zheng became even more anxious and uttered a phrase that she would normally consider defiled.

"Let's make love."

"Make love?"

"To intercourse."

Ah, even the Empress was begging him to make love. This was the benefit of power. A true man should be like this: wielding power over the world when awake, and resting his head on a beauty's lap when drunk.

Seeing that Zheng had abandoned her last shred of restraint, Zhang Yang removed his hand from her path.

Seeing that there was no obstacle, Zheng immediately stuffed the object in her hand into the peach blossom cave.

Zhang Yang patted Zheng's plump buttocks and laughed, "Crawl over there, I want to attack from behind."

Zheng didn't care what he asked for. As long as it could relieve the lust in her body, she would probably be willing to let Zhang Yang go through the back door.

Zhang Yang slapped Zheng's jade buttocks hard, leaving five bright red finger marks, before he thrust his waist and entered her.

"Ah!"

she cried out.

Her two large breasts rippled with Zhang Yang's thrusts.

As Zhang Yang was brutally ravaging Zheng, he heard the door of the outer room open.

Without turning his head, he shouted, "Come here, all of you." Yue Liguo and the Queen of Dali were stunned to hear the lewd sounds from the inner room. He was actually

serving others with them. But they dared not enter the inner room without their permission.

Seeing that familiar, strong body and hearing the powerful thrusts, they couldn't help but recall those wild days, that ecstatic pleasure. Thinking of the impending storm, the two women's legs went weak.

Zhang Yang glanced at the two women and commanded, "Take off your clothes."

The Queen of Dali understood Chinese, hesitated for a moment, then, meeting Zhang Yang's stern gaze, quickly began to undress. Seeing this, the Queen of Yue Li also took off her clothes.

Soon, two perfect bodies were exposed to the air; the difference was that the Queen of Dali had fair skin, while the Queen of Yue Li had a wheat-colored complexion. The Queen of Yue

Li had been favored by Zhang Yang the most, and her body and soul had long been conquered. Watching the two make love, even after only a few moments of undressing, she was already aroused, a babbling brook appearing in her dense, dark forest.

Zhang Yang glanced at the two women's perfect figures, pointed to both sides of the bed, and said, "One on each side."

Seeing Zhang Yang's gesture, the Queen of Yue Li Kingdom immediately crawled to his left, greedily watching the massive dragon moving in and out of Zheng Shi's body.

Although the Queen of Dali had already been favored by Zhang Yang, she was still unaccustomed to sharing debauchery with others, and her movements were somewhat slow.

Seeing the Queen of Dali Kingdom's slow pace, Zhang Yang pointed to the Queen of Yue Li Kingdom's back and shouted, "Since you don't want to serve me, then kneel here."

The Queen of Dali Kingdom, realizing she was being punished for being a step too late, dared not hesitate any longer and quickly knelt behind the Queen of Yue Li Kingdom. Looking at her exposed chrysanthemum and the dark red slit in front of her, she blushed crimson with shame.

Zhang Yang didn't let her off the hook, continuing to command, "Serve her with your tongue."

Hearing that Zhang Yang actually wanted her to lick that woman's genitals, the Queen of Dali Kingdom's eyes immediately filled with tears; she felt like dying, but thinking of her family, she could only endure the humiliation. As

soon as she lowered her head, she smelled a foul odor.

The Queen of Yue Li seemed to understand what Zhang Yang wanted her to do. Already aroused by the two men, and seeing the Queen's slow pace, she thrust her hips forward and sat on the Queen's face.

The Queen of Dali was about to back away when a large hand pressed against the back of her head. Knowing the Emperor was annoyed by her slowness and fearing further punishment, she quickly stuck out her tongue and licked the ugly crevice.

The Queen of Yue Li, licked, involuntarily swayed her plump buttocks, her juices smearing the Queen of Dali's face.

The Queen of Dali, never having suffered such humiliation, went limp and fell between the Queen of Yue Li's legs.

Zhang Yang continued to thrust into Zheng Shi, coldly looking at the Queen of Dali and saying, "If you still can't forget your status as Queen, then I'll have to send you to the military camp to take care of the soldiers of the Celestial Empire." Hearing

this, the Queen of Dali shivered and quickly got up, licking again.

Serving one person was better than serving countless others, and it even smelled a little good?

The Queen of Dali smelled the honey on her nose, took a small sip, and found that the honey wasn't as foul as she had imagined.

Under her care, the Queen of Yue Li's moans gradually rose in intensity.

Seeing that the Queen of Dali was getting into the mood, Zhang Yang nodded and said, "Use your hands too."

The Queen of Dali looked around, and seeing that the only place she could touch was her two large, upside-down breasts, she reached out and grasped them, beginning to knead and play with them.

She was surprised that this woman, who looked so dark-skinned, had such delicate skin.

As the two reached their climax, Zheng Shi also reached her climax.

Zhang Yang placed Zheng Shi on the bed, looked at her disheveled lower body, and said to the Queen of Dali, "Go and clean her up."

This time, the Queen of Dali had learned her lesson; upon hearing this, she immediately pulled her wet cheeks away and began to serve Zheng Shi.

The Queen of Yue Li, meanwhile, swayed her hips, attracting the Emperor's attention.

"The Yue Li people are truly lewd."

Zhang Yang grabbed her plump buttocks, thrust his hips forward, and penetrated her fully, causing the Yue Li Queen to roll her eyes back. After

a series of frenzied thrusts, the Yue Li Queen collapsed limply to the ground.

The Queen of Dali was also burning with desire, lying on the bed, but dared not move, only looking pitifully at Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang stepped forward and picked her up, laughing, "Be more sensible in the future, and I won't mistreat you, otherwise..."

He then launched into another passionate encounter... ( Chapter 92: The Jin-Liao Envoy) Early in

the morning, Li Chuwen ordered his men to monitor the Jin envoy's lodgings. If he summoned the Jin envoy first, he would have to pay a higher price. He was determined to maintain the current relationship between the Celestial Empire and the Liao Kingdom; this was his main mission, and he would spare no effort to ensure the stability of the Liao Kingdom's southern border. Dealing with the Jin Kingdom was already a great strain for the Liao Kingdom; if the Celestial Empire were to launch a northward campaign, the Liao Kingdom would be in grave danger. No one expected that the traditionally weak Central Plains would produce an emperor with overwhelming power, who, in half a year, conquered the south and north, leaving the surrounding countries powerless to retaliate. The three kingdoms of Champa, which had originally become vassals of the Liao Dynasty, also submitted to the Celestial Empire under its intimidation. The Liao people were not particularly dissatisfied with this; in fact, they somewhat envied the three kingdoms. Unfortunately, the Liao's request to submit to the Celestial Empire last year was rejected. The eighteen prefectures of Yan and Yun were seized from the Han people by the Liao ancestors, and the Han people had always harbored the ambition to reclaim them. Emperor Taizong of Song, upon unifying the Central Plains, eagerly launched a northern expedition, but suffered a crushing defeat. Later, the Western Xia rose to power, rendering the Song Dynasty unable to launch another northern expedition. Now, the Celestial Empire had unified the Central Plains, killed the Western Xia emperor on the battlefield, plunging the Western Xia into internal strife, and then wiped out the Dali and Yue Li kingdoms, which had intended to take advantage of the chaos. Its military strength far surpassed that of the Song Dynasty. If the Celestial Empire didn't intend to reclaim Yan and Yun, probably no one in the Liao would believe it. However, they also lacked the courage to confront the Celestial Empire. Returning Yan and Yun would be tantamount to tolling the death knell for their own country. Without the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun, the Liao Dynasty could no longer sustain its confrontation with the Jin Dynasty. Zhongjing, its only remaining stronghold, lacked the defensive advantages of Yanjing. The Liao court's greatest ambition was to become a vassal state of the Celestial Empire, maintaining the existing border. At the very least, they hoped to divert the Celestial Empire's attention to Western Xia, preventing Liao from immediately facing a two-front war. Simultaneously, Liao was negotiating with the Jin Dynasty, hoping to use some gold and silver to lift the siege of Zhongjing. Li Chuwen had just dispatched his entourage when he heard the Celestial Emperor's summons and hurriedly followed. When Li Chuwen entered the Imperial Study, Zhang Yang was reviewing memorials. Upon seeing him, Zhang Yang simply said, "Wait a moment. We'll talk after I've finished reviewing these memorials." Li Chuwen glanced at the stack of memorials, over a foot high, and frowned inwardly. These memorials would take at least half a day to read. However, Li Chuwen immediately realized a serious mistake: the Celestial Emperor reviewed memorials very quickly, each taking no more than a hundred breaths. Watching the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty rapidly flip through the memorials, Li Chuwen felt even more that the Emperor was unfathomable. Zhang Yang was unaware of Li Chuwen's thoughts. He was simply reviewing the memorials that the Six Ministries had approved. These were all memorials submitted by officials from various regions, and the Six Ministries had already processed them according to their respective duties. According to the new dynasty's procedures, they could already be sent to their respective regions, but Zhang Yang wanted to understand the details from each region, so he was naturally very quick. If he encountered any improper handling by the Six Ministries, he would simply set them aside without directly making corrections. In less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, Zhang Yang had already moved a stack of memorials, about a foot high, to a different location. Zhang Yang looked up. It was as if only then that he noticed Li Chuwen standing there. Pointing to the round stool beside him, Zhang Yang laughed, "Why are you still standing? We're both Han Chinese. Don't be so polite, sit there." Li Chuwen was puzzled that the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty didn't mention the Liao Dynasty he represented, but instead brought up their shared ethnicity. He quickly replied, "I'll stand." Zhang Yang laughed, "Then make yourself at home. I remember you were the one who sent the ransom last time, weren't you?" Li Chuwen was inexplicably excited to hear that the powerful Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty still remembered him. He respectfully said, "I had the honor of meeting Your Majesty at Ansu Army." Zhang Yang nodded and said, "It seems you have the trust of your Emperor. Unfortunately, the Liao Dynasty is declining, and your position is precarious. How is the war between your country and the Jin Dynasty going?" Li Chuwen hadn't expected Zhang Yang to ask him this question, so he had to bite the bullet and say, "With the aid of the Celestial Dynasty's weapons, our country has already repelled the Jin Dynasty's offensive. I believe that soon we will be able to defeat the Jin Dynasty and recover our lost territory." Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang shook his head in disappointment and said, "I am speaking to a compatriot in a foreign land. You don't need to use diplomatic rhetoric to appease me. I already know the situation in Liao well. You have now blocked the Jin's offensive, but how long can the grain supplies in Zhongjing last? How long can your country remain peaceful?" Li Chuwen, sensing the Emperor's veiled meaning, exclaimed in surprise, "What does Your Majesty mean?" Zhang Yang shook his head and said, "You don't need to hide anything. I already know the situation in Liao. That Yelü Yanxi is incompetent and cowardly, and has already lost the hearts of the people. On the other hand, King Yelü Chun of Qin and Jin is quite brave and holds military power. Even if Yelü Chun doesn't rebel out of kinship, do you think the Liao officials want Yelü Yanxi to lead them to destroy the country? As long as someone puts the imperial robe on Yelü Chun, he will rebel whether he likes it or not. I just don't know how far away that day is?" The situation in Liao was indeed as described, and the Khitan nobles, both large and small, were already extremely disappointed. When the Jin army attacked Shangjing, he fled to Zhongjing. When the Jin army threatened to advance on Zhongjing, he fled again to Nanjing, essentially fleeing at the first sign of trouble. Naturally, the Liao people dared not entrust their interests to such an emperor. However, with both the Jin and the Celestial Empire eyeing them covetously, the Khitan nobles dared not act rashly. Li Chuwen was also aware of the domestic situation. His powerful patron, Xiao Fengxian, relied on Yelü Yanxi's protection to wield absolute power. Once Yelü Yanxi lost his throne, the wicked Xiao Fengxian would certainly be the first to be eliminated, and the fate of Li Chuwen, whom Xiao Fengxian had personally promoted, was predictable. These days, Li Chuwen had been racking his brains for a solution, but unfortunately, he couldn't find a way out. He actively supported Yelü Chun, but he couldn't ascertain the attitude of Yelü Dashi, who was leading the army against the Jin. If he remained loyal to Yelü Yanxi, and in the event of a coup in Nanjing, he might defect to the Jin like Yelü Yudu, inciting Jin retaliation, leaving the Liao with no power to resist. On the day the country falls, he too will face certain death. Hearing the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty bring up his current predicament again, Li Chuwen couldn't help but show fear. Zhang Yang remembered that historically, it was Li Chuwen and Yelü Dashi who supported Yelü Chun. Seeing his expression, he knew they weren't on the same page yet, and continued, "I met Yelü Dashi once and know he has great ambitions and is already dissatisfied with Yelü Yanxi. He controls half of your country's army, while the defense of Nanjing is in Yelü Chun's control. As long as someone supports Yelü Chun's ascension to the throne, Yelü Dashi will surely respond with his army, and then your country will change hands. Enough said. Even if someone has such foresight, he's just another powerful minister in your Liao Dynasty, not worth my attention. Your country and the Jin Dynasty are already locked in a bitter war, and the demand for weapons must be enormous. As long as you have enough money, I can sell them to you." Li Chuwen saw that Zhang Yang was referring to himself as "I," and knew he was speaking as the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty. Continuing to sell weapons meant that the Celestial Empire wouldn't be heading north in the short term, and his mission was accomplished. He quickly bowed and said, "Thank you for your kindness, Your Majesty. I will report this good news to my Emperor upon my return. I am also very interested in the fireworks. I wonder if Your Majesty could sell some to our country for celebrations?" Zhang Yang glanced at Li Chuwen with amusement upon hearing this. These fireworks were made of gunpowder. If they were allowed to buy them, they could surely decipher the gunpowder composition. Although the proportions of gunpowder were complex, they might still get lucky. He waved his hand and said, "Fireworks are forbidden. Only our imperial court can set them off. You may leave. I still need to summon the Jin envoy." Li Chuwen was merely testing the waters. Seeing that he couldn't gain any advantage, he also bowed and took his leave. Looking at the magnificent hall in front of him, Li Chuwen was filled with thoughts. What did the Celestial Empire Emperor mean by talking to him like that? ← How could he be so sure that Yelü Dashi was dissatisfied with Yelü Yanxi? Just as Li Chuwen was thinking, he heard someone beside him say, "Come out of the palace with me."

Li Chuwen's thoughts were interrupted. He looked up and saw the guard who had led him into the palace, and hurriedly said, "Thank you for your trouble, sir."

Li Chuwen had been pondering all the way, but still couldn't figure it out. After leaving the palace and looking at the bustling streets, he made a decision.

With the Emperor of the Celestial Empire's prowess, his judgment couldn't be wrong.

That's how humans are; once someone achieves great success, their opponents will also believe their decisions to some extent.

Upon hearing the emperor's summons, Jin envoy Li Shanqing immediately entered the palace.

Zhang Yang, after offering him a seat, asked, "What brings you here?"

Seeing the emperor's directness, Li Shanqing replied, "By order of my emperor, I hope to form an alliance with your country to jointly attack the Liao Dynasty. In return, the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun will belong to your country, and the remaining prefectures and counties to my country."

Zhang Yang shook his head, saying, "Our country is newly established, and the domestic situation is still unstable. Attacking the Liao Dynasty is not yet on the agenda. If you have come solely for this purpose, I'm afraid you've made a wasted trip."

In truth, the Jin Dynasty itself held little hope for this; if the Celestial Empire truly intended to advance north, it wouldn't have sold weapons to the Liao Dynasty.

Seeing that this was indeed the case, Li Shanqing said, "Although we cannot fight alongside your country, our country hopes to exchange goods with you. We can sell our finest northern pearls, ginseng, and sable furs, and we also hope to buy your country's weapons, cloth, tea, and other goods."

Zhang Yang knew that their purpose was simply to buy weapons, just like the Liao Dynasty. The Jurchens were restricted from importing ironware by the Liao Dynasty. Although they had conquered many prefectures, their manufacturing capacity was limited. Moreover, the Jurchens could only trade by sea. Even if he gave them an armory, they couldn't take it all away. He

immediately smiled and said, "That's feasible. As long as you have the money, you can buy what you want." The Jin envoy was overjoyed to have his goal easily achieved and thanked him. ...

Chapter Ninety-Three: The Situation in Western Xia.

The wind howled, and snow and sand flew.

The harsh winters of Western Xia were even more brutal than those of the Celestial Empire. While the Celestial Empire celebrated its annual Spring Festival, Western Xia was engulfed in war. Only the two military commands and one prefecture controlled by Xiao Heda were relatively peaceful.

After being defeated by the Celestial Empire, Xiao Heda seized the opportunity to control two military commands and one prefecture, becoming the third largest power in Western Xia. Naturally, he became the target of various parties' attempts to win him over and curry favor. Visitors flocked to his door daily; he could refuse most, but he couldn't refuse the envoys of Chage and Weiming Renzhong. To buy time, Xiao Heda feigned illness and secluded himself, temporarily avoiding a confrontation with the two. Once they were both weakened, it would be time for Xiao Heda to force the emperor to abdicate.

Xiao Heda looked at the letter in his hand; the handwriting was still as delicate as ever.

An image appeared before his eyes: a pure and beautiful woman galloping across the grasslands on horseback, while he led his guards in pursuit, the woman occasionally turning back to tease his protectors.

But in the blink of an eye, the joyful scene ended; the beautiful woman, Feng Guanxia, married the Western Xia emperor and became the high and mighty empress.

Without even opening the envelope, Xiao Heda knew its contents.

This was Nanxian's third letter. If it were eighteen years ago, he would have gone without hesitation. But now Nanxian has become the Empress of Western Xia. Even though Li Qianshun is dead, she still considers Western Xia's interests.

Has marrying the Western Xia Emperor made her forget her roots? Reconciling Chage and Weiming Renzhong can only stabilize Western Xia again. The motherland is currently fighting a bitter war with the Jin Dynasty and doesn't want to fight a united Western Xia.

Doesn't she understand that only by letting Chage and Weiming Renzhong fight until they can't recover can she reap the benefits, take her back with her strength, and then the two of them can return their lands together—this generous gift would be enough for the emperor to bestow Nanxian upon him.

"Master, Xiao Shiyi has returned,"

the steward reported from outside the door as Xiao Heda was deep in thought.

Xiao Shiyi was Xiao Heda's servant, quite intelligent, who had followed Xiao Heda from Liao to Western Xia. He had always been loyal. Therefore, Xiao Heda had him responsible for being a spy in Hedong, while also creating some trouble for the Celestial Dynasty to prevent its westward expansion.

"Back so soon? Has the Celestial Empire already secured Hedong like an ironclad fortress?

" Xiao Heda said in a deep voice, "Let him in."

Xiao Shiyi entered, his face covered in dust, and knelt down, saying, "Master, I am incompetent. Guan Sheng of Hedong was decisive in his military tactics, and several gatherings were wiped out by his troops. Many of our spies in Hedong were also lost. After the Celestial Empire wiped out Dali and Yue Li, the Han people were intoxicated by the Celestial Emperor's great achievements and hoped to restore the glory of the Han and Tang dynasties under his leadership. It was difficult to incite them to rebel. The garrisons in various parts of Hedong were also heavily guarded. If our spies made any move, they would be discovered. I had no choice but to let the remaining spies lie low and wait for your instructions."

Xiao Heda nodded upon hearing this and said, "You did well. Since we can't gain any advantage, let's wait for the right opportunity. You've traveled a long way, go and rest."

The hearts of the people of the Celestial Empire are at our disposal. Dali and Yue Li, who were taking advantage of the chaos in the south, have been wiped out. The motherland can buy weapons from the Celestial Empire again, so it seems the Celestial Empire doesn't intend to attack his motherland. The next target will then be Western Xia. His sphere of influence borders Hedong, and if war breaks out, he'll likely be the first to be hit. Given the audacity of his motherland's emperor, he probably wouldn't dare accept him back.

Xiao Heda frowned as he thought this.

"Well, things will work out in the end. Nanxian should have some explanation by now, right?"

Xiao Heda rubbed his temples, tore open the envelope, and began to read.

After observing for a moment, Xiao Heda slapped his forehead and exclaimed, "Fool! Brilliant! I'm such a fool! I misunderstood Nanxian. If we wait until Chage and Weiming Renzhong are both severely wounded before he returns to his country, then Western Xia will have no power to resist. At that time, our motherland will be the first to suffer. Our motherland is already struggling against the Jin Dynasty; if we add the Celestial Dynasty to the mix, then the day of national annihilation will not be far off. Nanxian is truly brilliant! As long as Western Xia resists the Celestial Dynasty, our motherland will not have to worry about the Celestial Dynasty advancing north. With the Celestial Dynasty's superior weapons, our motherland will surely be able to crush the Jin Dynasty's clowns. After that, the Celestial Dynasty will taste its own weapons, hahaha!"

Xiao Heda muttered to himself for a long time, then suddenly shouted, "Men! Prepare the horses! I'm going to see Nanxian. Quickly, right now!"

Upon hearing this, the guards waiting outside the door hurriedly prepared Xiao Heda's warhorse.

Steward Xiao Yi happened to see the guards preparing the horses. Hearing that his master was about to go to the capital, he hurried to the study to see Xiao Heda.

Seeing Xiao Yi enter, Xiao Heda straightened his clothes and smiled, "

We're going to Xingqing Prefecture soon. What do you think of this outfit?"

Having watched Xiao Heda grow up, Xiao Yi naturally knew what he was thinking. He smiled and said, "Master looks good in anything, but the situation in the capital is chaotic

right now. How many men will you be taking?" Hearing this, Xiao Heda was taken aback. He then remembered that Cha Ge and Wei Ming Renzhong were still engaged in a diplomatic battle in the capital. If he took too few men, everyone would want to capture him.

Patting his head, he realized he'd acted as impulsively as a young lad going to see his lover, and blushed slightly, saying awkwardly, "I got carried away. Thank you for reminding me, Uncle Yi."

Seeing his master had calmed down, Xiao Yi added, "Master was just momentarily excited. Even without my reminder, you would have quickly come to your senses. I'll go prepare some things for you."

Without your reminder, I probably would have rushed to the capital to see Nanxian, and wouldn't have had the mind to consider anything else.

Xiao Heda watched his old servant, who had watched him grow up, leave before calling out, "Someone, summon the three commanders for a meeting."

Xiao Heda was originally only a commander of a prefecture, but after retreating from Hedong, his forces had exceeded their authorized strength, so he promoted himself to Grand Commander, and appointed five commanders under him, each commanding ten thousand troops. Two more men were dispatched to lead troops to garrison the Left Wing Shenyong Army and Xiangyou Army, while the remaining 30,000 troops were stationed in Xiazhou. They were just waiting for Chage and Weiming Renzhong to be defeated and then they could rush straight to Xingqing Prefecture and reap the benefits.

The three commanders quickly arrived at Xiao's residence. Xiao Heda instructed one to carefully guard Xia Prefecture, while the other two went to assemble the troops.

The next day, Xiao Heda led 20,000 troops straight to Xingqing Prefecture.

Several miles from the city, they saw a continuous stretch of felt tents nearby, with even deer antlers buried around the perimeter of the camp. Squads of cavalry frequently circled the camp, displaying a high level of vigilance.

It was truly laughable that they were treating their own capital like a formidable enemy, guarding against their own compatriots. Just

as Xiao Heda was mocking the infighting among the Western Xia, dozens of riders appeared on the horizon, led by Chage, Weiming Renzhong, and Weiming Anhui, who held the triple positions of Grand Tutor, Minister of the Imperial Secretariat, and Privy Councilor. Weiming

Anhui enjoyed Li Qianshun's trust and controlled the 20,000 troops in Xingqing Prefecture, remaining impartial in his support of Chage and Weiming Renzhong. Weiming Anhui held considerable prestige within the Dangxiang tribe, and his attitude could influence most of the Dangxiang nobles. Therefore, Chage and Weiming Renzhong dared not attack him. Having received his impartial promise, they could only turn their attention to Xiao Heda. Ironically, Xiao Heda feigned illness and refused to appear, leading to another stalemate. Chage and

Weiming Renzhong were evenly matched, neither confident of victory, thus maintaining the stalemate outside the city. Although clashes continued, no large-scale battles occurred.

However, the harsh winter of Western Xia, coupled with the soldiers' growing discontent after living in makeshift felt tents for some time, left them in a predicament. Unable to fight, yet unwilling to retreat, both men were greatly embarrassed. Hearing that Xiao Heda was leading troops into the capital, they both personally came out to greet him, hoping he would be their final straw. Weiming Anhui, also receiving a hint from the Empress, personally came out to greet him. Chage dared to approach the city gates near Weiming Renzhong's camp only because he was accompanied by Xiao Heda.

Upon seeing the three leaders arrive to greet him, Xiao Heda also led several dozen riders forward.

"I've sent messengers to invite you several times, and Brother Xiao has finally arrived! I've prepared fine wine in the city; let's drink to our hearts' content tonight," Wei Mingrenzhong said preemptively, as if Xiao Heda had come at his invitation.

Upon hearing this, Cha Ge's expression changed.

Seeing Cha Ge's expression, Xiao Heda inwardly cursed Wei Mingrenzhong's cunning, and smiled, "I've come by the Empress's decree and must first go to the palace. If I have any free time, I'll inevitably have to bother you all."

These words were quite appropriate, both dispelling Cha Ge's doubts and avoiding directly offending Wei Mingrenzhong. Upon hearing this ,

his expression relaxed, and he laughed, "My residence has also prepared fine wine. We haven't seen each other for several years, so this is a good opportunity for us to catch up."

Seeing that Cha Ge and his companion were constantly using subtle tactics, and fearing that Xiao Heda wouldn't be able to handle it, Wei Ming'an Hui smiled and said, "The Empress is already waiting in the palace. Please, General Xiao, enter the palace first." Hearing this

, Xiao Heda also smiled and said, "Please lead the way, Grand Tutor."

Thinking of the beauty he hadn't seen for several years, Xiao Heda couldn't help but kick his warhorse, increasing its speed...

Chapter Ninety-Four: Sudden Changes in the Wind .

The Xiang tribe had risen less than a century ago, and originally a nomadic people, their palaces were more of a nomadic ruggedness than grandeur, far from magnificent and resplendent.

In winter, when everything withered, the rugged palaces appeared even more desolate.

As night approached, the northwest was swept by a relentless cold wind, which occasionally emitted a series of piercing howls, extremely harsh to the ear.

A gust of cold wind swept through the palace walls, heading straight for the inner palace. The palace servants waiting outside the gates involuntarily shrank their necks, squinting their eyes, bracing themselves against the biting wind.

Eighteen years—eighteen years of longing, the most youthful eighteen years of his life. Countless nights he had tossed and turned, unable to sleep for Nan Xian.

Finally, heaven had rewarded his efforts; Li Qianshun was dead, and no one could stop him and Nan Xian now.

Xiao Heda looked at Nan Xian, still as beautiful as ever, and hurried forward.

Empress Yelü Nanxian of Western Xia, seeing Xiao Heda's burning gaze and slightly outstretched arms, knew he wanted to embrace her. Her face flushed, and she coughed, saying, "Heda, there are people outside."

Xiao Heda paused for a moment, then stepped forward and hugged Yelü Nanxian again, firmly saying, "Eighteen years ago, Li Qianshun separated us. Now, no one should try to separate us."

Yelü Nanxian knew Xiao Heda's feelings for her, but being of high character, she felt nothing special for the intellectually challenged Xiao Heda. Holding her, she struggled, saying, "The situation is still uncertain. If we do anything improper, we'll become the target of everyone's criticism, and then we won't be able to contribute anything to our country. Calm down. Everyone inside and outside the palace is watching us." Hearing this

, Xiao Heda slowly released his arms, staring at Yelü Nanxian, and said, "Then I'll wait..." "Wait, wait until the situation is settled, then I will absolutely not let anyone stop us."

Yelü Nanxian lowered his head to avoid Xiao Heda's burning gaze, and said, "You know the current situation in the capital, right? Weiming Chage and Weiming Renzhong each have their supporters. Their strengths are evenly matched. Therefore, the stalemate continues. The Celestial Empire has already wiped out Dali and Yue Li, and may launch a westward expedition. If we let them continue to cause trouble, it might escalate into a decisive battle one day. At that time, the Western Xia army will be greatly weakened and probably unable to withstand the Celestial Empire's army. Once Western Xia is destroyed, our country will be the first to bear the brunt. Given our current situation, our country will certainly be unable to resist the Celestial Empire. Therefore, we can only use Western Xia to hold off the Celestial Empire. Only then can our country have a chance to rise again. What do you think?"

Upon hearing this, Xiao Heda nodded and said, "You have already mentioned all this in your letter. I am far inferior to you in terms of wisdom. Just tell me what I should do." Is

a man without a plan even a man?

Yelü Nanxian shook her head inwardly. She had once been somewhat moved by his deep affection, but she hadn't expected him to be so short-sighted. Two letters had failed to summon him; she herself had to take a great risk, explaining the reasons in writing, to finally get him to come. If that letter had fallen into the hands of the Tanguts, she, the Empress who was devoted to her country, would likely not have fared well. It might even have caused conflict between Western Xia and Liao.

Such a man was unreliable.

"Weiming Chage wants to be emperor, while Weiming Renzhong recommends Prince Kang. If we support one of them, the other will certainly not submit,"

Xiao Heda interrupted before Yelü Nanxian could finish. "Then we'll fight until they submit. With our 200 million troops and the Grand Tutor's 20,000 troops, no one can withstand all three."

What a brute.

A flicker of disgust flashed in Yelü Nanxian's eyes, but his expression remained unchanged. He simply shook his head and said, "Although the side we support can secure a victory, the losses would be too great. We must preserve all their troops to have any chance of withstanding the Heavenly Dynasty's attack."

"That won't be easy," he said. "They've been fighting for a long time, and many of their men have died or been wounded. Even if they wanted to make peace, their men wouldn't compromise. Moreover, they would never allow the other side's people to ascend the throne."

"I have already discussed this with Weiming Anhui. The only way to ensure they have no objections and that Weiming Anhui is of one mind with us is to have his younger brother, Weiming Ankang, ascend the throne. Weiming Ankang is also the grandson of Emperor Yizong (Li Qianshun's grandfather) and has the right to inherit the Western Xia throne. Weiming Ankang grew up with Weiming Chage, and Weiming Renzhong is also a close friend of Weiming Ankang. We don't need to worry that he will help Weiming Chage against him after his ascension. If you agree, tomorrow you, me, and the Grand Tutor will summon Weiming Chage and Weiming Renzhong." "Let's discuss it. The sooner Weiming Ankang ascends the throne, the sooner we can prepare to resist the Celestial Dynasty."

Upon hearing this, Xiao Heda nodded and said, "This plan is excellent. Weiming Ankang and the others will definitely accept it. Once he ascends the throne, you will come back to Xia Prefecture with me. Once we're there, no one can stop us."

Yelü Nanxian smiled and said, "If possible, I will definitely go to Xia Prefecture with you. It's getting late. You should go back first to avoid arousing suspicion and causing

trouble."

Xiao Heda looked at Yelü Nanxian reluctantly before taking his leave.

Watching Xiao Heda leave, Yelü Nanxian breathed a sigh of relief. After all the trouble, nothing unexpected had happened. No matter where she was, she was still a daughter of the Liao Dynasty.

As for going to Xia Prefecture, it was merely to appease Xiao Heda. The Dangxiang people would never allow their former empress to do anything improper.

"Your Majesty, the hot water is ready. Would you like to bathe now?"

Just as Yelü Nanxian was sighing, a palace maid called from outside the door.

"Yes."

Although it was already the dead of winter, Yelü Nanxian insisted on bathing every day. It was a pity that Xingqing Prefecture had no hot springs; otherwise, she could soak in the water anytime.

Several palace maids filled the wooden tub with water, and after Yelü Nanxian tested the water temperature, they sprinkled in some flower petals preserved from spring.

Yelü Nanxian gracefully removed her clothes, revealing her perfect body to the air. She possessed the fullness of a mature woman, yet her breasts were as pink as a young girl's. Her buttocks, though full and round, didn't sag like a woman's, but were remarkably perky.

Startled by the cold air in the room, Yelü Nanxian shivered and quickly stepped into the wooden tub.

"Ah,"

she groaned softly, her pores opening as the slightly warm water scalded her.

"Your Majesty, your skin is so beautiful, still as smooth as a young girl's,"

a maidservant exclaimed again as she gently washed Yelü Nanxian.

A young girl?

Was she a young girl or a woman?

How many women longed to remain young, craving praise? A few words of praise were enough to make them feel elated.

Yelü Nanxian was a woman too; she too loved vanity and enjoyed receiving compliments. But the word "young girl" felt like a fly to her.

Who could know that she had been married to Li Qianshun for eighteen years and still remained a virgin? It wasn't that she was abusing her power, or that she wasn't favored by Li Qianshun; rather, it was that Li Qianshun was willing but unable. Every time he touched and licked her, he could never be a man.

(This isn't unfounded; Li Qianshun's eldest son was born when he was forty. Li Qianshun ascended the throne at the age of three, had many concubines, but had never had a child. How could he be able to conceive at forty? Perhaps he borrowed someone's seed... This is how it's written. At this time, the empress wasn't Yelü Nanxian; it was just a change for plot purposes.)

She was also a woman, and should enjoy the pleasures of womanhood. But every time Li Qianshun satisfied her physical desires, it ended there, while she had to slowly wait for her desire to subside—what torment! She also longed for someone to deeply penetrate her body, to leave their mark. But why couldn't she do that?

When Weiming Ankang

ascended the throne, she would be the Empress Dowager. Who would dare, who would be worthy of sharing a romantic encounter with her then? A romantic encounter—what a beautiful phrase, yet so distant. Did the heroic, majestic, and powerful man she had dreamed of in her youth even exist in this world?

Only someone like the Emperor of the Celestial Empire could be worthy of her . As

Yelü Nanxian thought this, an image of a magnificent man appeared in her mind.

Yelü Nanxian's face flushed slightly, and she shook her head, banishing the thought from her mind.

She was now on the opposite side of him; how could she share a romantic encounter with him? Besides, she had heard he was only in his early twenties, handsome and extraordinary, while she was already past her prime.

The night passed in Yelü Nanxian's wild thoughts.

The next morning, Weiming Cage and Weiming Renzhong entered the palace by imperial decree. Upon entering, they found Xiao Heda and Weiming Anhui already there, and couldn't help but wonder.

Seeing that the two men had arrived, Yelü Nanxian said, "I've told you about the domestic and international situation several times, but you've never taken me seriously. I won't say much more today. I've decided to let Weiming Ankang succeed to the throne. If you agree, the enthronement ceremony will be held tomorrow. If you don't agree, then continue your infighting. The Grand Tutor and I will no longer mediate, nor will we allow anyone else to ascend the throne."

Weiming Cage and Weiming Renzhong hadn't expected the Empress to issue such an ultimatum. If the Empress and the Grand Tutor didn't support them, even if they defeated their opponents, it would be difficult for them to ascend the throne, and their soldiers would also find it hard to continue fighting.

Considering that Weiming Ankang was somewhat acceptable, the two reluctantly agreed to Yelü Nanxian's arrangement.

The next day, Weiming Ankang ascended the throne as Emperor, honoring Yelü Nanxian as Empress, and appointing Weiming Cage and Weiming Renzhong as Left and Right Generals, each in charge of four military commands. Xiao Heda was also promoted two ranks, managing the existing two military commands and one prefecture...

Chapter Ninety-Five: The Drums of War Beat Again

. Spring came exceptionally early in the second year of Xia. By the beginning of February, peach blossoms were already in full bloom in Bianjing, filling the city with fragrance.

Today was another bright spring day, but Dai Zong walked heavily into the imperial study.

Zhang Yang pointed to the round stool in front of the imperial desk and said, "Sit down for a while, I will finish reading these memorials."

Dai Zong was in a hurry, his mind already set on rushing to Western Xia with his sword. He had no mood to sit idly. He knelt on the ground with a thud and said hoarsely, "This humble subject has failed in his duty. Five days ago, Weiming Ankang of Western Xia ascended the throne. Weiming Chage and Weiming Renzhong have also stopped fighting and retreated to their respective fiefdoms."

Zhang Yang was also shocked to hear this. He did not expect that Western Xia had been unified again so quickly. Thus, annihilating the Western Xia was no easy task. The Song dynasty had repeatedly invaded the heartland of Western Xia, but each time the Western Xia employed a scorched-earth policy, heavily fortifying key locations. This forced the Song army to transport supplies from the rear, while Western Xia cavalry constantly harassed the supply convoys. The Song army lacked cavalry capable of countering the Western Xia cavalry, making supply transport extremely difficult. Several of the Song dynasty's expeditions ended in failure due to inadequate logistical support.

Seeing Dai Zong's ashamed expression, Zhang Yang feigned ease and said with a smile, "I knew it! Cha Ge and Wei Ming Renzhong are both outstanding men of their generation. How could they fight to the death when our country is eyeing them so fiercely? Stand up and speak. Do you know who acted as the go-between?"

Dai Zong knew that the magnanimous emperor wouldn't blame him, but he was still deeply frustrated that his department hadn't been able to find out about the changes in Western Xia beforehand. He kowtowed to the emperor for his mercy before standing up and saying, "My spies haven't yet established a foothold in Western Xia. There are still many things we don't know. However, Xiao Heda was also promoted along with Cha Ge and Wei Ming Renzhong. He also officially took over the Xiangyou Military Command and the Left Wing Shenyong Military Command. The day before Wei Ming Ankang ascended the throne, he also led troops to Xingqing Prefecture."

Zhang Yang thought for a moment and shook his head, "It couldn't be Xiao Heda." Upon hearing this

, Dai Zong was startled. Could it be that the emperor had another secret intelligence department? Otherwise, how could he be so sure? If that's the case, then the department the Emperor controls is probably far more sophisticated than his current intelligence department.

Dai Zong tentatively asked, "How does Your Majesty know this?"

The intelligence department is already showing signs of surpassing the other seven departments. Branches are scattered throughout the land, and they can openly deploy spies; few things in the world can escape their notice. This is quite similar to the Eastern Depot of the Ming Dynasty, except they lack the power of execution and can only forward intelligence to the relevant departments for processing. Even so, none of the other departments dare to offend the intelligence department; otherwise, if they are targeted, no one can guarantee they won't make a mistake. Once the intelligence department reports it, there will be no way to undo the damage.

Zhang Yang also wanted to establish a department to oppose the intelligence department, but with the new dynasty newly established and the departments lacking manpower, there was no suitable candidate at the moment.

Zhang Yang, unaware of Dai Zong's thoughts, laughed and said, "If Xiao Heda had mediated between the two, he wouldn't have come away empty-handed."

Upon hearing this, Dai Zong asked in surprise, "Xiao Heda rightfully took over the Xiangyou Military Command and the Left Wing Divine Valiant Military Command. Although he controlled the two places after Li Qianshun's death, it was never truly legitimate. This time, he was able to obtain the fiefdom of Weiming Ankang. That's quite a gain for him."

"If our dynasty were to march west now, how would Western Xia respond?"

Zhang Yang laughed, "Western Xia would likely resort to their old tricks: a scorched-earth policy, concentrating elite troops in Xing, Ling, and Xia prefectures to guard key locations

, luring us in deep, and cutting off our supply lines." He continued, "That's right. Western Xia must know our dynasty will attack them. The Left Wing Divine Valiant Army and the Auspicious Protector Army will then be mere pawns. Even if Xiao Heda is appointed, he won't hold power for long. If Xiao Heda dies in our attack, Western Xia can reassign him after repelling our forces. The reinforcements to Xia prefecture will also come from these two armies. With Xiao Heda in charge of these two areas, he'll only be able to rely on his current forces when facing our attack. Even if he survives, his strength will be greatly diminished. Then Weiming Ankang can do whatever he wants with him." Upon hearing this, Dai Zong feigned sudden realization and exclaimed, "

After Your Majesty's analysis, I understand now! It turns out Xiao Heda fell for Weiming Ankang's trick! The most likely person to reconcile Weiming Chage and Weiming Renzhong is Weiming Ankang's brother, Weiming Anhui. He controls the defenses of Xingqing Prefecture; without his approval, no one can ascend the throne in Xingqing Prefecture."

Zhang Yang, of course, knew Dai Zong wasn't that naive; otherwise, he wouldn't have entrusted him with a ministry. Sometimes, feigning ignorance was just to highlight his superiors' abilities.

It seemed they needed to discuss the attack on Western Xia properly, otherwise, who knew what might happen? Moreover,

conquering Western Xia would allow for earlier immigration, perhaps even catching the last chance...

"Guards! Summon the Ministers of the Six Ministries here for a meeting!" "

After Zhang Yang shouted, he found a map of Western Xia and began to study it carefully.

Soon after, Wu Yong and his six companions arrived as summoned.

Hearing them enter, Zhang Yang didn't look up, but simply said, "Dai Zong, tell them about the situation in Western Xia."

Dai Zong recounted the events in Western Xia, and Wu Yong and his six companions frowned upon hearing that Western Xia had once again huddled together.

After a moment, Zhang Yang finally looked up and asked, "Jiang Jing, how much grain have the Suide and Jinning armies transported?"

Jiang Jing thought for a moment and said, "Since His Majesty pacified the Northwest, the Ministry of Revenue has been collecting grain and transporting it to the two regions. The Suide and Jinning armies currently each have 100,000 shi of grain. However, the Northwest routes were completely destroyed by Chage's fire. Following His Majesty's decree, priority was given to aiding the people, so even the largest armies only have about 10,000 shi of grain remaining."

Zhang Yang finished his calculations and nodded, saying, "That's enough. I intend to wipe out Western Xia today. What strategies do you have?" Zhang Shuye, who had served in the Northwest and was quite knowledgeable about the Western Xia, said, “

Although the Dangxiang people are currently united, there are many tribes within Western Xia, and it is not a monolithic entity. Many tribes have deep-seated hatreds with the Dangxiang. As long as our dynasty can demonstrate strong military power, some tribes will surely be willing to serve us. Your Majesty might as well use both kindness and force, accepting some tribes, isolating the Dangxiang, and at the same time increasing our manpower.” "

The ministers all know that after Chage burned down several routes in the Northwest, the fate of the Dangxiang people was sealed. The Yue Li Kingdom, which merely sought to take advantage of the chaos, was reduced to slavery. The Dangxiang people, having committed such an outrageous act, were destined for annihilation. Of course, they were unaware that Zhang Yang was also influenced by some modern sentiments.

Zhang Yang genuinely had no intention of sparing the Dangxiang people. Chage's fire destroyed the food supplies of over a million people, resulting in tens of thousands dying from burns and starvation. This was unacceptable to Zhang Yang, but he also didn't intend to reduce the entire Western Xia to slavery. The terrain of Western Xia was complex; if he truly intended to annihilate all the Western Xia tribes, the casualties would be unbearable for Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang nodded and said, 'Western Xia, aside from other ethnic groups, also has many Han Chinese, and I will not implicate them. Only the Dangxiang people will be treated the same as the Yue Li people, which will allow for the development of coal mines in Hedong. The Ministry of Revenue should also organize the household registration in Hedong. After I send troops, we can begin preparing for immigration.'" Upon hearing this, Wu Yong replied, "

After the establishment of the Western Xia, they built numerous granaries. Large quantities of grain are stored in places like Qiliping and Taoduiping in Dejing Town within Xia Prefecture, Tanliangcheng northwest of Helan Mountain, Mingshachuan southwest of Ling Prefecture, Zhigubao, Shengruchuan, and Kangu Village within Lanzhou, as well as Xishicheng, about 150 li east of Lanzhou. If we can seize a few of these places by surprise, it will greatly alleviate our logistical pressure."

Wu Yong had learned the term "logistics" from Zhang Yang, and these vivid terms were readily used. After Zhang Yang mentioned it, everyone readily adopted it.

Zhang Yang also had some knowledge of this period of Western Xia history; according to records, the so-called imperial granary in Mingshachuan alone contained as much as a million shi of rice. He nodded and said, "What the scholar says is quite true. The grain supplies for the De Army and Jinning Army are enough for an army of 100,000 for half a month. Only the grain supplies for the various routes in the northwest are slightly insufficient. Let's start this surprise attack from Lanzhou. I will personally fly to Lanzhou and lead the troops to attack Western Xia." Upon hearing this, Zong Ze hurriedly said, "

The court has many elite troops and capable generals; why should Your Majesty personally lead the charge? General Zhong Shidao, the commander of Qinfeng Road, is resolute and resourceful. With just a few troops to assist, Lanzhou can surely be captured."

Zhang Yang shook his head, saying, "Currently, the troops in the Northwest are scattered across various regions. If they are mobilized, it will surely alert the Western Xia. If they adopt a scorched-earth policy beforehand, it will be counterproductive. Lanzhou already has ten thousand troops; if I personally lead them, a surprise attack will be enough to defeat Chage."

Zhao Mingcheng, upon hearing this, hurriedly said, "Chage's army still numbers over one hundred thousand. Your Majesty is of noble birth; how can you risk your life?"

Zhang Yang knew that although Zhao Mingcheng was learned, he was not knowledgeable in military affairs, so he patiently explained, "Although Chage has over one hundred thousand troops, they are currently stationed in various cities. I am only facing tens of thousands. Moreover, as long as the other troops launch their attacks together, Western Xia will surely gather all its troops and retreat to Xingqing Prefecture. Chage will not fight me to the death." The matter was thus decided. Tomorrow I will fly to Lanzhou. The intelligence department also orders Guan Sheng and Huyan Zhuo of the Suide and Jinning armies to launch a campaign against Western Xia five days later.

Chapter Ninety-Six: An Easy First Battle

. Lanzhou has always been a vital transportation hub connecting the Central Plains and the Western Regions, and an important ancient town. Located in the center of the country, it is situated between north and south, bordering Shaanxi to the east, Xinjiang and Qinghai to the west, Ningxia and Inner Mongolia to the north, and Sichuan and Tibet to the south. It was known as the "Land Capital."

During the Song Dynasty, it bordered the Western Xia's Zhuoluo and Southern Army Command, becoming a crucial border town.

To the northwest was the Western Xia's Gaizhu City, also called Zhuoluo City, the garrison of the Western Xia's Zhuoluo and Southern Army Command.

After the Western Xia's defeat, Zhong Shidao personally led 10,000 troops to garrison Lanzhou to guard against another Western Xia attack. Harassment.

Spring always comes late to the Northwest. Last year, Chage's fire burned the Northwest to the ground, and no new plants have grown yet. The surrounding mountains are bare, appearing exceptionally desolate.

Although Zhang Yang had not seen the Northwest after the fire for the first time, seeing the lifeless land beneath his feet still fueled the fire in his heart.

To avoid being discovered by Western Xia spies, Zhang Yang landed outside Lanzhou and walked into Lanzhou.

Because most of the landlords in the Northwest had been massacred by Western Xia, much of the land in the Northwest had been redistributed, and with the addition of new... The Emperor's magnificent achievements meant almost no one worried about a renewed invasion from the Western Xia, so the people actively participated in reconstruction.

With the Western Xia forces retreating, merchants from all over flocked to the city; even merchants from the Western Regions, rarely seen in Kaifeng, became more numerous. With spring planting approaching, everyone was preparing for the new year, and their pace naturally quickened.

Zhang Yang entered the city and, seeing this bustling scene, finally breathed a sigh of relief. To minimize casualties among the people in the disaster-stricken northwest, Zhang Yang disregarded the objections of his ministers and essentially ordered the Ministry of Revenue to distribute grain and money according to household registration. If this proved ineffective, Zhang Yang would be powerless to help. The national treasury, which the Ministry of Revenue had initially anticipated sustaining for two years, had been largely emptied by the Northwest, though this earned Zhang Yang a reputation for being a benevolent ruler.

Looking around and seeing the city's residents living in peace and prosperity, Zhang Yang followed the directions of passersby to the Governor-General's office.

Most of the cities in the Northwest had been burned down, and only simple repairs had been made. The Governor-General's office was merely a thatched courtyard, with rows of thatched roofs visible from afar.

Zhang Yang secretly nodded in approval of Zhong Shidao's approach of sharing the people's hardships.

"Halt. What do you want?"

Seeing Zhang Yang in civilian clothes attempting to enter the Governor-General's residence, the two soldiers quickly shouted.

Zhang Yang, prepared, produced a palace guard's token and handed it to the one on his left, saying, "I'm from the capital, and I have business with the Governor-General. Please inform him."

The soldier, seeing the gleaming gold token with the character "宫" (Palace) in the center, dared not delay and respectfully returned the token to Zhang Yang, saying, "Please wait a moment, I'll go inform him immediately."

Zhong Shidao was discussing military strategy with his two sons, Zhong Hao and Zhong Xi, in his residence when he heard a man outside holding a palace token requesting an audience. Intrigued, he ordered someone to lead him in.

Zhang Yang followed the soldiers into the main room and saw Zhong Shidao and his sons there. He smiled and said, "General Zhong, how have you been?"

Zhong Shidao and his sons were surprised to see that the visitor was actually the Emperor. He hurriedly knelt and bowed, saying, "Your Majesty, I was unaware of Your Majesty's arrival and failed to greet you properly. Please forgive me."

Zhang Yang quickly stepped forward to help Zhong Shidao up, smiling, "General, please rise. I came in disguise, fearing the news might leak out. Ignorance is no excuse."

If Zhong Shidao had surrendered to Zhang Yang before due to circumstances, Zhang Yang's generosity in helping the disaster victims in the Northwest had undoubtedly won over the old general. Zhong

Shidao rose and respectfully invited the emperor to take a seat before cautiously asking, "Your Majesty, what brings you here?"

Zhang Yang gestured for the three to sit down and smiled, "I have decided to launch a three-pronged attack on Western Xia in four days. I will personally command the western route, Huyan Zhuo will lead 50,000 troops from Suide Army in the central route, and Guan Sheng will lead 50,000 troops from Jinning Army in the eastern route. The three routes will advance simultaneously to wipe out Western Xia."

Upon hearing about the attack on Western Xia, Zhong Shidao and his son were eager to try. The Zhong family had been generals for generations and had attacked Western Xia several times before, but each time they had failed. Every generation had hoped to conquer the Western Xia and restore the Han dynasty's lands. Zhong Shidao had thought his generation had no hope, but unexpectedly, a powerful and ambitious ruler suddenly emerged in his old age.

Hearing that his family's generations-long wish was about to be fulfilled, Zhong Shidao excitedly asked, "I wonder which other armies are on the western route, and when they will arrive?"

Zhang Yang replied, "The Qin-Feng route will only deploy 10,000 troops from Lanzhou, and the Jingyuan route will send 20,000 troops from Huaide, totaling 30,000. Lanzhou will attack Gaizhu City, and Huaide will advance from Xiaoguan. The remaining troops in other cities will remain in place to await orders, in case the Tubo take the opportunity to harass us."

The Zhong family father and son were stunned to hear that the western route only had 30,000 troops, and that they would be divided into two routes to attack two important towns and passes. Their previous ambitions for glory vanished instantly, and they looked at Zhang Yang with strange eyes.

Had the Emperor become so complacent after conquering Dali and Yue Li that he was actually following Tang's plans?

Although none of the three dared to say it aloud, their eyes undoubtedly conveyed the same meaning.

Zhang Yang, feeling somewhat uncomfortable under their seemingly foolish gazes, chuckled and asked, "General Zhong, do you think my plan is unfeasible?" It

wasn't unfeasible, but rather tantamount to suicide.

Zhong Shidao, of course, dared not voice his true thoughts, and said tactfully, "Wouldn't that be a bit risky? The Zhuoluo, Nanjunsi, and Xishoubaotaijunsi that my western army is attacking are all under the jurisdiction of Chage. In case of battle, they will rush to each other's aid. Moreover, there are 20,000 troops stationed in each of Gaizhu City and Xiaoguan, and they possess advantageous terrain. My army of only 30,000 might not be able to shake them, would it?"

Zhang Yang laughed and said, "No problem, I will personally lead the troops to break through the two cities. At that time, you only need to hold your positions. The central and eastern routes are weaker in terms of attack direction, and they also have artillery support. If we hold out for a few days, they can break through the border, at which point the Western Xia will inevitably withdraw their troops." "I intend to seize several of the Western Xia's grain depots before they implement a scorched-earth policy, thus easing the logistical burden on our army."

Hearing that the emperor would personally lead the operation, Zhong Shidao felt relieved. With the emperor's skills, assassinating the enemy chieftain would be a piece of cake. With gunpowder to breach the city walls, conquering both places would be easy.

Zhang Yang discussed the details with the Zhong family father and son, then stayed at the Zhong residence as a palace guard, rarely venturing out, only discussing military strategy and practicing martial arts with the Zhong family father and son, never showing his face in public.

On the fourth night after Zhang Yang arrived in Lanzhou, he infiltrated Gaizhu City alone, while Zhong Shidao led ten thousand troops to lie in ambush about a mile outside the city.

Although the Western Xia knew that the Celestial Emperor could enter and leave military camps to assassinate enemy chieftains, they did not expect the Celestial Emperor to attack so quickly, so their defenses were lax. Many important generals in Gaizhu City died quietly at Zhang Yang's hands. With a deafening roar, the city gates of Gaizhu City were blasted to pieces, and Zhong Shidao led ten thousand troops towards the gates. The sound of hooves and the clash of swords shattered the silence of the night.

The explosion and the ensuing battle quickly awakened the entire city. "What's going on?" A mid-level Xixia officer, still in his clothes, ran out of his house, but before he could even see what was happening, Zhang Yang slit his throat. Dressed in black, Zhang Yang moved swiftly through the military camp, attacking anyone who tried to organize a force. He would kill the organizers and then retreat immediately, avoiding any engagement with ordinary soldiers. Even with dozens of men protecting him, Zhang Yang could easily break through the encirclement and kill the officers. "Light the fire! Anyone who kills a man in black will be promoted three ranks and rewarded with a thousand taels of gold; anyone who wounds him will be rewarded with a hundred taels of gold." As Zhang Yang was busy slaughtering officers, he heard a powerful roar behind him. Turning around, he saw a Western Xia officer had already gathered hundreds of men, and the chaotic Western Xia soldiers around him were rapidly converging on his banner. With torches blazing everywhere, Zhang Yang could no longer hide. He cut down a Western Xia soldier who was trying to gain promotion and wealth, snatched a bow and arrows, and leaped onto a rooftop. Bathed in the torchlight, the Western Xia officer, seated high on his horse, was conspicuously visible. "Go!" Zhang Yang shouted softly, and the officer fell to the ground, drawing his bow and unleashing a barrage of arrows, relentlessly killing the armored Western Xia officers. "There, shoot him!" " The Western Xia soldiers had barely drawn their bows when Zhang Yang leaped onto another rooftop. Hundreds of arrows were fired simultaneously, missing Zhang Yang but killing many nearby soldiers. Zhang Yang continued to leap from rooftop to rooftop, shooting down officers while simultaneously luring Western Xia soldiers to fire their arrows. In the blink of an eye, hundreds had died unjustly from their comrades' arrows. Zhang Yang seemed like a death knell, each arrow drawing taking a life. Some officers, seeing Zhang Yang's unpredictable movements, were frightened and hid in their houses. Just as Zhang Yang was engrossed in the battle, a rain of hoofbeats came from the rear camp. Upon seeing this, Zhang Yang..." They quickly stopped and hid on a dark rooftop. A high-ranking officer who had narrowly escaped Zhang Yang's earlier assassination attempt, now free from Zhang Yang's harassment, led several thousand soldiers from the rear camp to the rescue upon hearing the chaos at the front. Seeing fires raging everywhere at the front camp, he was furious. At the same time, the sound of rapid hoofbeats approached from the city gate. Before he could give an order, he was shot off his horse by an arrow. Zhang Yang killed several leaders with a series of arrows and quickly moved to another location. Zhong Shidao had also led his troops to charge the camp. Without command, the Western Xia quickly began to retreat. ... Chapter Ninety-Seven: Demoted to Slaves, Those Who Surrender Will Not Be Killed. The fleeing Western Xia army had not gone far outside the city when ambushes sprang up from all sides. The Celestial Empire soldiers were scattered about, carrying torches. By the dim light, the Western Xia troops could barely see the figures moving about, and they couldn't determine the size of the Celestial Empire's forces. Lacking officers to organize them, and influenced by the cowards, they surrendered one after another. Seeing that the situation was settled, Zhang Yang ordered Zhong Shidao to wipe out the remaining troops. He and Zhong Shidao's second son, Zhong Xi, divided their forces, sending a thousand men straight to Zhigu Fort, while Zhong Shidao's eldest son, Zhong Hao, led two thousand men to Shengruchuan.

Both Zhigu Fort and Shengruchuan were located behind Gaizhu City. Although they stored tens of thousands of shi of grain, only a thousand men were stationed there. Under normal circumstances, the Western Xia, relying on the terrain, could withstand an attack of several thousand men, and with the troops of Gaizhu City to provide reinforcements, they would not have to worry about falling.

However, due to Zhang Yang's assassination attempt and Zhong Hao's artillery attack, the Western Xia troops at both locations fell before they could even destroy their stored grain.

Zhang Yang left Zhong Xi to guard Zhigu Fort and then rode alone towards Gaizhu City.

When he arrived at Gaizhu City, the sky was already showing a hint of dawn, and the city had calmed down. The flags on the city walls had been changed to the Black Dragon Flag of the Celestial Empire, and squads of Celestial Empire soldiers were patrolling the city walls to guard against a Western Xia counterattack.

"News just came from the Governor's Mansion that the one who launched the night raid on the city's military camp last night was none other than the Emperor! The brothers who rushed into the camp with the Governor even saw the Emperor standing on the rooftop shooting down Western Xia soldiers

. We were so lucky! I wonder if we'll ever have another chance to see the Emperor." Since it was still early, no one was entering the city, and those inside were not allowed to leave. A soldier on the left side of the city gate said to his fellow soldier on the right.

"Brother, you're right. That's the Emperor, a god descended to earth! Even seeing an ordinary Emperor once is enough to absorb some of his aura. If you saw the current Emperor, you'd be blessed with divine power! But didn't the Governor say the Emperor is the commander of our Western Route Army? He'll definitely come back. We should be able to see him next time we go to war. Then I'll go to Er Ya's house to propose marriage. I won't need to bring any dowry; I've already met the Emperor!" The soldier on the right said with anticipation.

The soldier on the left, disapproving of his comrade's smugness, laughed, "Stingy! You'll definitely get a reward for capturing Gaizhu City this time. You can take the money to Er Ya's house."

The soldier on the right, annoyed by his call of stinginess, blushed and said, "I'm not trying to save a few strings of cash. It's just that our status is different now. How many people have actually seen the Emperor? Er Ya is lucky to marry me. Her father wouldn't dare ask me for a dowry!" Just

as the soldier on the left was about to tease him further, they heard the rapid sound of hooves approaching and quickly shouted towards the city walls, "Have you seen who it is?"

The soldiers patrolling the city walls glanced at Zhang Yang galloping towards them in the distance, and seeing his black military uniform, they relaxed. He shouted down to the city walls, "I am a soldier of our army."

The two soldiers below relaxed, and when Zhang Yang approached, they crossed their pistols and shouted, "Show me your identification!"

Soldiers of the Celestial Empire all carried identification badges, firstly for easy verification of military status, and secondly for identification in case of an emergency on the battlefield.

Zhang Yang pulled out a badge from the Governor-General's Office and said, "I am from the Governor-General's Office."

Seeing that Zhang Yang was indeed from the Governor-General's Office, the two quickly sheathed their guns and saluted.

Zhang Yang returned the salute and entered the city.

The soldier on the left, watching Zhang Yang walk away, wondered, "Why didn't he come from the direction of Lanzhou?"

"Didn't the two young masters take two detachments of troops out last night? He must be their messenger reporting

their victory," the soldier on the right said, thinking himself clever, unaware that it was the Emperor he longed to see.

Normally, as soon as dawn broke, the city's residents would begin their daily lives. However, after last night's fierce battle, the city changed hands, and the Celestial Empire hadn't yet posted any proclamations. The city's residents had no choice but to stay home to avoid incurring bad luck.

Zhang Yang inquired with a patrol of soldiers along the street about Zhong Shidao's arrival at the city's government office, and then spurred his horse straight there, only to be stopped at the gate.

Zhong Shidao's personal guards at the gate, looking at the token in his hand that was identical to their own, asked Zhang Yang suspiciously, "Why haven't I seen you at the Governor's Mansion?"

Seeing their high level of vigilance, Zhang Yang had no choice but to take out his palace token, about to speak. Two of Zhong Shidao's personal guards saluted, saying, "Greetings, Your Majesty."

Zhang Yang had kept the matter secret to prevent discovery by Western Xia spies. Last night, Zhang Yang had personally infiltrated the city to assassinate someone; his arrogance was unparalleled. Therefore, there was no longer any need for secrecy, and Zhong Shidao officially announced the Emperor's arrival to boost morale and intimidate the Western Xia bandit leader.

Upon hearing of the Emperor's arrival, the Governor's Mansion guards naturally connected it to Zhang Yang, who had carried the palace token that day.

He saluted

and headed towards the main hall. Laughter could be heard even before he entered. The

white-haired and bearded Zhong Shidao, upon hearing the reports of the various units' victories, couldn't help but laugh heartily, saying, "Excellent! A truly exhilarating victory! This battle is a triumph unseen in decades! We defeated a much stronger enemy, and the Western Xia even had the advantage of terrain. We suffered fewer than five hundred casualties, nearly annihilating twenty thousand Western Xia troops. It's a resounding victory!"

Of course, Zhong Shidao also knew the key to their victory: if Zhang Yang hadn't infiltrated the city to assassinate a high-ranking Western Xia officer and disrupted the Western Xia army's assembly, he might not have been able to win even facing an enemy twice his size. Moreover, without Zhang Yang, he wouldn't have dared to launch ambushes and capture prisoners while outnumbered.

He continued, "The victory was entirely due to His Majesty's solo capture and killing of the enemy chieftain. Our contributions are minor, so we will not request any further commendations."

The generals in the hall were also surprised that they could so easily capture a formidable city that had withstood decades of Song Dynasty resistance. Their faces lit up with smiles, and their awe of the Emperor deepened. They felt they hadn't contributed much and didn't expect any further merit.

Just as they were about to speak, someone outside the hall said, "Why not request commendations? Without you all, I couldn't have taken Gaizhu City alone. Each of the centurions should receive an Outstanding Merit."

An Outstanding Merit was awarded to soldiers who didn't qualify for a third-class merit; three Outstanding Merits could be exchanged for a third-class merit.

Zhang Yang, of course, was also trying his best to win over these former Northwest generals.

When Zhong Shidao saw the Emperor enter, he quickly led everyone in saluting.

Zhang Yang returned the greeting and smiled, "Tell me the details of the battle results."

Zhong Shidao bowed respectfully to the Emperor before replying, "A great victory! Our army suffered no more than 500 casualties, killed over 4,000 enemy soldiers, captured over 13,000, and only a little over 1,000 escaped."

Zhang Yang had anticipated a brilliant victory, but he hadn't expected to almost completely annihilate the Western Xia army and easily obtain tens of thousands of shi of grain from Zhigu Fort. He was generous with rewards, saying, "This battle was made possible by the bravery of all the soldiers. By my decree, each soldier will be rewarded with five guan of cash, and the dead and wounded will receive generous compensation."

Zhong Shidao thanked the Emperor on behalf of the soldiers and asked, "What will be done with the grain from Zhigu Fort?"

Zhang Yang thought for a moment and said, "Spring planting is imminent. Allocate 10,000 shi for the disaster-stricken people to use as seeds. Store the rest locally. If the Western Xia launches a strong attack, the grain can be destroyed and retreated to Gaizhu City."

Zhong Shidao was deeply moved by Zhang Yang's concern for the people. Standing up, he declared, "As long as we're alive, we'll keep the grain. We absolutely won't let the Western Xia take it back."

Zhang Yang patted Zhong Shidao on the shoulder and laughed, "Anyway, it originally belonged to the Western Xia. If their army comes to take it, we can destroy it. We can't afford unnecessary casualties. I still need to lead them to attack Xingqing Prefecture. But you must hold Gaizhu City."

Although the Ministry of Revenue was doing its best to provide disaster relief, Qinfeng Road was located in the far northwest of the frontier, a long and difficult journey, and several winter snowfalls had further increased the difficulty of transportation. Zhong Shidao had been quite worried several times, and once he even had to reduce the army's rations to just one meal to survive until the court's relief grain arrived. Hearing that tens of thousands of bushels of grain had to be burned, he was quite reluctant. However, he knew that he couldn't spare any troops to guard the area, so he had no choice but to reluctantly obey the imperial decree.

Zhang Yang paused, then continued, "Issue my decree: a city-wide search is to be conducted, and all Dangxiang people will be reduced to slavery, branded with triangular marks on their foreheads. They can be auctioned off in nearby prefectures to supplement the labor force. All Dangxiang people within the Western Xia territory can be treated the same way. Any slave who dares to escape will be executed without mercy. However, it is strictly forbidden for them to harm other ethnic groups; violators will be executed without mercy."

Upon hearing this, Zhong Shidao exclaimed in alarm, "Your Majesty's decree will likely incite a deadly struggle among the Dangxiang people, increasing our army's casualties."

Zhang Yang knew this would inevitably provoke fierce resistance from the Dangxiang people, but he harbored deep resentment towards Chage's previous actions, and only in this way could he deter the foreign tribes. Thinking of this, he firmly stated, "My mind is made up. The Dangxiang are cunning and cruel; this annihilation is their own fault."

Zhong Shidao, hearing this, had no choice but to obey, though a flicker of vengeful pleasure crossed his heart.

Zhang Yang continued, "You all remain in your posts and await further orders. I will now proceed to Huaide Army to take Xiaoguan."

"Your Majesty has not rested all night; perhaps you should rest in the city before proceeding,"

Zhang Yang waved his hand. "It's alright. The central and western armies have likely already begun their advance into the palace; we cannot fall behind them. Moreover, we must make the Western Xia realize the sheer size of our forces before they will withdraw."

Having said this, he went out into the courtyard, blew his iron whistle to summon a giant eagle, and soared into the sky towards the rising sun.

The morning light cast a faint golden glow on Zhang Yang's figure, making the emperor's majesty even more apparent to those below.

Chapter Ninety-Eight: The Night Banquet at Xiaoguan Pass .

Hangu Pass, Nanshan Yaowu Pass, Xisan Pass, and Beixiao Pass are the four passes of Guanzhong. With these main passes guarding the area, Guanzhong could be as impregnable as a fortress.

Xiaoguan Pass, as the northern gateway to Guanzhong, has always been an important pass, a vital transportation hub connecting Guanzhong to the northern frontier. The long-term wars between the Han Dynasty and the Xiongnu, between Helian Bobo of the Xia Dynasty and the Later Qin Dynasty, and between the Tang Dynasty and the Tibetan Empire all considered it a strategic location. During the Northern Song Dynasty, to defend against the Western Xia invasion, Xiaoguan Pass was rebuilt. The pass was constructed in a treacherous gorge north of the Three Passes and south of the Ancient Wating Gorge, connecting with the Qin Great Wall from the Warring States period, protecting the northwestern routes.

Xiaoguan Pass, the Qin Great Wall, and the towns and fortresses built along the Great Wall within Huan County formed a complete defensive system, resisting the Western Xia for decades and becoming an impregnable pass. Unfortunately, its reputation was tarnished in its later years, as the Western Xia took advantage of the internal strife in the Central Plains to capture Xiaoguan Pass.

Emperor Chongzong of Xia, Li Qianshun, died in battle. Weiming Cage, in his quest to return to the country and claim the throne, abandoned many occupied cities, but Xiaoguan Pass remained garrisoned.

With Xiaoguan Pass falling into the hands of the Western Xia, a breach was torn in the border defenses of the Northwest, built up over decades. The Western Xia could launch an attack from Xiaoguan Pass at any time, penetrating the heart of the Northwest.

To prevent harassment from the Western Xia army, Zhang Yang stationed 15,000 troops each in Huaide Army and Xi'an Prefecture, under the command of veteran generals Zhong Shizhong and Liu Zhen

. When Zhang Yang led his troops to capture Gaizhu City, Zhong Shizhong and Liu Zhen had already set off for Xiaoguan Pass.

Zhang Yang flew for over an hour on his eagle, then spotted a column moving northeast below, its banners indicating the Xi'an Prefecture garrison. Finding Liu Zhen's banner, Zhang Yang ordered his giant eagle to swoop down.

"Greetings, Your Majesty."

The world had long since spread the news that the Emperor was accompanied by three black divine eagles, and one of Liu Zhen's personal guards felt a sudden chill. Looking up and seeing the three swooping eagles, he immediately dismounted and saluted.

Liu Zhen had already seen the Emperor's three divine eagles. Looking up and seeing the familiar three eagles in the sky, he quickly led everyone to dismount and pay their respects.

"Greetings, Your Majesty!"

"Greetings, Your Majesty!"

...

As Liu Zhen and his dozens of men shouted, it was like dominoes falling, with the entire procession responding in turn. The sound of saluting didn't subside for a long time before the procession came to a halt.

Zhang Yang dismounted his divine eagle and returned the salute. He smiled and said, "Let the procession continue."

Liu Zhen gave a slight signal. A messenger mounted his horse and rode forward.

Liu Zhen led his own warhorse and respectfully said, "Please use my warhorse, Your Majesty."

Seeing that there were several spare warhorses behind Liu Zhen, Zhang Yang casually pointed to a jet-black warhorse and said, "A warhorse knows its master. This one has been with you for many years, hasn't it? I'll use that one."

After saying that, he walked to the black horse, leaped onto it, and rode on.

They traveled in silence. They arrived ten miles outside Xiaoguan Pass that evening. Just as they set up camp, Zhong Shizhong arrived with his troops.

That evening, Zhang Yang sneaked back towards Xiaoguan.

The Western Xia troops inside Xiaoguan had already discovered that the Celestial Empire had set up camp ten miles away. To guard against a night attack, their defenses had been greatly strengthened, with shadowy soldiers patrolling the city walls from time to time.

The dark blue city walls appeared even more menacing at night, the majestic city resembling a giant beast lurking in the darkness, ready to bare its sharp fangs and claws, or open its jaws to devour any intruders.

Zhang Yang circled the area and had to admit the meticulousness of the builders of Xiaoguan; there wasn't a single flaw left.

Looking at the towering city walls before him, Zhang Yang drew two specially made daggers and forcefully stabbed them into the wall. With a soft

"clang,"

the daggers sank into the hilt.

These two daggers were forged by Tang Long, the Golden Leopard, using a secret technique. Although not as sharp as modern special-purpose daggers, they were still incredibly razor-sharp.

Zhang Yang nodded in satisfaction, bent his legs, and with a sudden burst of strength, leaped two meters into the air. Just as he was about to land, he thrust his two daggers into the city wall. With two soft clicks, the daggers sank into the hilts, and with a slight pull, they were wedged into the wall.

Seeing that the daggers could support his weight, Zhang Yang breathed a sigh of relief. If this method didn't work, he would have had to return empty-handed.

Zhang Yang lay quietly on the city wall, listening for any unusual activity. With lightning speed, he pulled his dagger out with his left hand, propelled it up about a foot, and then thrust it into the wall. Then, with a forceful pull from his left hand, he lifted himself up, while his right hand thrust the dagger upwards with lightning speed. He

repeated this process, and in no time, he had climbed more than ten meters up the wall. Once on the top, Zhang Yang saw Western Xia soldiers patrolling on both sides. Without thinking, he leaped back into the city. When he was about five or six meters off the ground, he thrust his hands out, and his two daggers were once again embedded in the wall. However, Zhang Yang's momentum was too great this time, and the dagger was too sharp. The city wall seemed like paper, and the dagger tore a long path through it.

Although Zhang Yang had put straw ash in his shoes, it still made a soft sound.

"Thump!"

Seeing that his momentum hadn't lessened much, Zhang Yang knew something was wrong. As soon as he landed, he quickly and stealthily slid down the city wall.

The Western Xia soldiers patrolling ahead on the city wall heard the sound and rushed to the top, throwing down a torch to investigate.

For a considerable period, Western Xia practiced a

tribal military system with blood ties, a form of conscription. Each tribe was considered an armed force. Conscription was based on the "zhang" (a household, equivalent to a family). Generally, men aged five or older were considered adults and required to serve in the military. Two men were conscripted as "regular soldiers," and two others were randomly selected from the four to serve as laborers, called "burdens," with one "burden" (or "column"). Each regular soldier required two "burdens." The "column," composed of regular soldiers and "burdens," was the smallest unit of military organization. Conscripted soldiers were led by tribal chiefs, and the soldiers of a tribe were called a "line." The

regular soldiers of the Western Xia, having thrown down their torches, saw nothing a few meters away illuminated by the firelight and asked the burdens behind them in confusion, "I clearly heard a sound just now, but there's nothing here. Did you hear anything?"

The burdens behind them were also companions from the same tribe, only less robust than the regular soldiers, hence their burden status. Although their status was lower than the regular soldiers, they still joked and laughed as if they were in the tribe. Patting the regular soldier on the shoulder, they laughed, "You must have misheard. I didn't hear anything. Hehe, you're going to brothels as soon as you get your pay, aren't you? Go get the torches, so you don't attract the patrol."

Upon hearing this, Zhengjun glanced down again, unwilling to give up, before straightening up and shaking his head. "Maybe I misheard, " he said. "The torch is almost burned out, and the patrol just passed by. No one will notice. Let's continue patrolling."

Fudan laughed, "You're just slacking off, kid. If the patrol finds you, you'll be in for a beating."

Zhengjun retorted with a laugh, "You're just cursing me! Let's go, my luck isn't that bad."

Zhang Yang lay in ambush at the foot of the city wall, listening to the people on the wall chattering for a while. He was initially worried they might come down to retrieve torches, which could reveal the cracks left by the dagger.

After waiting a while and seeing no one come down, Zhang Yang breathed a sigh of relief and quickly slipped into the city.

If the Western Xia general who died in his sleep knew that his men had had a chance to discover Zhang Yang, he would surely be furious enough to come back to life and give his cunning and sly old soldiers a good beating.

Obviously, news of the fall of Gaizhu City had not yet arrived; only due to the pressure from the Heavenly Dynasty army outside the city, the number of people patrolling the city walls had increased, and the government offices and military camps inside the city had not been heavily guarded.

Zhang Yang successfully infiltrated the government office, assassinated several Western Xia officials, and then plunged into the military camp.

He started killing people from the central independent courtyard, and after killing those in the center, he moved on to the individual rooms around the perimeter.

Zhang Yang couldn't remember how many people he had killed, but he estimated that none of the high-ranking officers in the military camp had escaped.

Emerging from a single cell, Zhang Yang was startled to find a faint stench of blood permeating the military camp. He quickly hid behind the building, and only breathed a sigh of relief when he saw nothing amiss. He guessed

that the Tangut people, accustomed to slaughtering sheep and cattle, were used to the smell of blood in the air.

Zhang Yang, however, forgot that his enhanced sense of smell, honed by his modifications, was already superhuman.

He gave the Western Xia people a disdainful look, feeling there were no more worthwhile assassination targets, and decided to sneak towards the rear camp.

Looking at the rows of stables, Zhang Yang couldn't help but feel envious. "So many horses stored in a pass like Xiaoguan? Are they preparing to flee at any moment? Tonight, I'll personally give them a run for their money. I wonder if they can handle it."

Zhang Yang chuckled mischievously, then pulled out a tinderbox, shook it vigorously, and a flame ignited.

This tinderbox was a testament to the wisdom of the ancient people, and one of Zhang Yang's most admired possessions. Soak sweet potato vines in water until concentrated, then remove and flatten them. Soak them again, add cotton and reed tassels, flatten again, and dry them in the sun. Add saltpeter, sulfur, rosin, camphor, etc., fold into long, flat tubes or twist into ropes, light them with fire, and then blow them out. At this time, although there is no flame, you can see red highlights burning faintly, like embers in ashes. It can last for a long time without going out. When needed, take it out and light it with a flick. It is truly an essential tool for murder, arson, and theft.

Before long, the haystacks piled in the yard began to emit white smoke, and in the blink of an eye, they turned into piles of towering fire.

Although the warhorses were well-trained, they were afraid of such fierce fire. Instantly, a series of neighing sounds rang out, and horses rushed out of the stables and fled into the darkness.

A group of soldiers had just arrived when they saw a warhorse leap out of the stables and charge at them.

The first man was knocked out of the stable and was obviously dead. Several others behind him were also trampled and kicked.

As the fire intensified, more and more warhorses leaped out of the stables. Many of the Western Xia soldiers who rushed in from all directions were trampled to death by the frightened horses.

The assassination attempts on officers were quickly discovered, and as more assassinated officers were found in various locations, the camp descended into chaos. Zhang Yang, after setting the fire, fled the city immediately.

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