At the end of the leap month, when the Han Empire was about to usher in the second year of Kaibao, Cao Yuangong, the envoy of the Guiyi Army, finally arrived in Tokyo after a tortuous journey eastward.
Fortunately, after passing through Liangzhou, with the care of the local government, the journey went very smoothly, and there was no more panic like before entering the country. As for the hard work of traveling in winter, after experiencing the hardships and having perfect protection, it was nothing. .
The current public security situation in Dahan is still worthy of recognition. When the programmatic spirit of Kaibao's governance was promoted through the Xuanwei Department and officials at all levels, and after the initial tangible benefits were initially felt through this year, the people were as happy as rain, and the northern states that had been deeply cultivated for many years also It can be described as people's attachment.
For Cao Yuangong's arrival, the imperial court from top to bottom gave him extremely high courtesy and treated him as an honored guest. Not only were all the reception matters thorough and proper, but Prince Liu Yang was also asked to receive them in person. At the same time, Emperor Liu also held a banquet in the Long Live Hall in person, accompanied by all his ministers.
The courtesy was astonishing. Even Cao Yuangong himself was extremely flattered and even couldn't believe it. Over the years, the Guiyi Army has not sent envoys to the court once or twice. However, according to the narrations of the envoys' return, although the court was courteous, it was not to this extent. Starting from the entry, from the center to the local area, from top to bottom, The court's attitude was as comfortable as the spring breeze.
Of course, this would not be for no reason, and Cao Yuangong was not a fool. After thinking about it, it probably had something to do with his purpose of coming here. In fact, this was exactly the case. This time, because they understood his intention to surrender his land, the court treated him with much more courtesy than before. It was almost the same as the treatment that King Qian Hongchu of Wuyue received when he went north several times.
As for Chen Hongjin's visit to Zhangzhou and Quan, the importance he received cannot be compared with this. In terms of household registration and wealth, five or six Guasha can hardly be compared with Tongzhangquan, but they cannot stand up to its geographical advantages.
In addition, Emperor Liu had always been thinking about the general strategy of advancing westward, and he recognized the achievements of the Guiyi Army in guarding Hexi for a long time. Various factors and the emperor's will led to this reaction. This is also of political significance, greater than other manifestations.
After thinking about this, Cao Yuangong couldn't help but feel relieved. This situation proved that the court really valued the Guiyi Army. This was a good signal for both the Guiyi Army and the Cao family. After all, even if you want to sell your body, you have to sell it for a good price. The buyer's attitude often determines the final transaction price.
In the Long Live Hall, there is a harmonious atmosphere. The cold outside cannot affect the atmosphere inside the hall at all. The emperor and his ministers are all wearing crowns and ceremonial clothes, enjoying the palace delicacies with Cao Yuangong. Emperor Liu also specially pulled out the ritual and music team. Performance.
An Ran was sitting there, looking at Cao Yuangong, who had a gentle and humble attitude. Emperor Liu also had a smile on his face and personally persuaded him to drink: "Cao Qing, this has been treasured in the palace for many years. It is a fine Fen wine. I would not part with it on any occasion." Take it out, if you come to court for the first time, you will have to drink a few more glasses!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Cao Yuangong did not dare to neglect, and stood up quickly, leaning on his body, and drank the wine in one gulp with Emperor Han.
Carefully looking at the Han Emperor, his eyes turned from the prince to the ministers. Cao Yuangong seemed to have a lot of emotion on his face, and his heart was full of emotion. He said to Emperor Liu: "What merits do I have? What can I do?" Your Majesty shows you such kindness and courtesy, I, I, I am so grateful..."
The excitement seemed difficult to express in words. As he spoke, Cao Yuangong actually squeezed out a few tears, but it created a somewhat touching atmosphere.
"Eh..." Upon seeing this, Liu Chengyou still had a relaxed expression. He waved his hand towards him and said comfortingly: "You are a minister of the Han Dynasty, and you are also an honored guest from afar. I should take care of you and make your guests feel like home. Otherwise, wouldn’t it be rude?”
"Your Majesty is the true saint and benevolent king. No wonder all the people from all over the world are vying to be loyal and loyal!" Cao Yuangong said immediately.
Emperor Liu was basically immune to this kind of flattery, but when he heard what he said, he couldn't help but laugh. How could he have been praised like this...
Looking at Cao Yuangong, Emperor Liu expressed emotion and said: "I have heard about the Helong incident many times since I came to the throne. For this purpose, I specifically checked the records and sent envoys westward, just to understand the hometown of Hexi. The public sentiment and situation. I also know a lot about the deeds of the Guiyi Army. I feel that they are both respectable and worthy, but also a pity.
Recovering the northwest, holding on for a hundred years, giving the Hexi survivors a place to live, and maintaining the etiquette and customs of our Han family. These are all great contributions to our great country, China!
In the early years, when the countries were divided and the world was divided, I and the imperial court focused mainly on unification. Now that the great cause is accomplished, I can free up my hands to focus on the northwest. It can also be regarded as compensation for the neglect of the old ministers in Hexi for many years, and to make up for the regrets of many years..."
"Your Majesty's mind is as broad as the quicksand, and it cannot reach it. If the entire Guiyi Army and the people of Guasha hear your Majesty's words, they will definitely feel deeply!" After hearing this, Cao Yuangong said.
With that said, Cao Yuangong stood up again and walked to the palace. Under the gaze of everyone, he took out a very cherished memorial from his arms, bowed and held it above his head, and said: "Your Majesty cares about the survivors in Hexi. It is really a great blessing for Guasha. I have come here this time, specifically by the order of Duke Xiping, to present the form enclosed and return it to the imperial court. I hope that your majesty will show you mercy, as requested by the army and people of Naguasha!"
Everyone present knew the purpose of Cao Yuangong's visit, so there were not many surprised expressions on his actions. With just a wink, the chamberlain Yantuo stepped forward, took it solemnly, and then presented it to Emperor Liu respectfully.
Opening Cao Yuanzhong's memorial, Emperor Liu read it carefully to show his attention. He recalled the past with more than a thousand words, pointed out the rise and fall of the rebel army, and talked about the governance of the Cao family in the past fifty years. Explain the current situation facing the Yiyi Army, as well as the situation of the military and civilians, and finally express his intention to surrender.
There are not many gorgeous words, but it has a beginning and an end, a clear theme and clear expression. From it, Emperor Liu can even feel Cao Yuanzhong's complicated mood when he wrote this memorial.
Putting down the document, Emperor Liu's majestic face showed a gentle smile again, stretched out his hand towards Cao Yuangong, and said: "Cao Qing, please be free!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
After thinking for a while, Liu Chengyou said calmly: "Cao's move is a great act of justice. I am very relieved to see the people of the city come back. It is just a matter of Gua Sha, not a matter of one army and two cities. It involves the entire situation in Hexi. , the court should also consider the overall situation..."
Hearing what Emperor Liu said, Cao Yuangong's heart skipped a beat. He immediately bowed again and said with some excitement, "Does it mean that Your Majesty doesn't want to accept the soldiers and people of Hexi?"
"The people of Hexi are also my people, how can we abandon them?" Emperor Liu said with certainty.
"Then why did Your Majesty hesitate?" Cao Yuangong seemed a little confused.
On the side, Prime Minister Wei Renpu spoke: "Don't be suspicious, Lord Cao. Your Majesty and the court will naturally welcome the return of the Guiyi Army to the court. It's just a matter of Hexi. The court has its own policies and needs to obey the overall situation.
The disasters encountered by the envoy when he came east have proven that the situation in Hexi is not stable. Therefore, a stable and comprehensive method is needed to implement the timing of return. Please be patient for the time being..."
Hearing Wei Renpu's explanation, Cao Yuangong suddenly understood, and then he apologized: "I am anxious, your majesty, please forgive me!"
"It's not easy for you to come from afar. It's understandable that you feel like this!" Emperor Liu looked smiling.
Then, he looked at Wei Renpu and ordered: "Wei Qing, the Cao family has guarded Guasha for fifty years, guarding the land and protecting the people, and has worked hard and achieved great results. Now that you are back, I am both happy and grateful. The court must not neglect it. After surrendering, Cao family's After the banquet, the political hall can discuss the terms of the reward and placement..."
"yes!"
These words were obviously meant for Cao Yuangong. When Cao Yuan Gong heard this, a smile finally appeared on his face. After talking so much, this is the most important thing.
