On the way to the palace, the palace was still very empty at this time. However, a large mansion in the center was quickly transformed into a main hall where daily meetings could be held.
In the car, Zhang Han and Cao Cao rode in the same car to facilitate the discussion of the trip.
"Zixiu bought half of it at that time. He was very far-sighted. He had already predicted that today's scene would give all the ministers a headache. It's really wonderful."
After Zhang Han finished talking about the whole process, he highly praised Cao Ang.
Cao Cao listened with a smile, and then asked: "Actually, I have wanted to ask you for a long time, how can you be sure that the capital is in Xu?"
"Still, you and Fengxiao have already had some discussions, so you secretly made suggestions and made arrangements, but this is very unrealistic. Could it be that Zhang Bochang knew in advance the time when the emperor returned eastward? Or maybe Fengxiao and Lu Yang forced him to do so that day? Yang Feng's plan is all to pave the way for today? Isn't it just some money from the mansion, how many of you are there? "
Cao Cao really didn't take this into consideration. What he valued more was food and people. Now he still has his own reputation for benevolence and righteousness and external prestige, because this reason was what Xun Yu had agreed with Cao Cao at the beginning.
When Cao Cao implemented the internal precepts, firstly, he was poor, so he did not want to indulge in extravagance; secondly, he had to follow the example to control the Cao family members so that they would not dare to plunder and gain wealth at will, and be arrogant and extravagant. Zhang Han was forced to do so in this section. In his early years, he advocated benevolence and righteousness in treating the people and being magnanimous in dealing with infamy, which became a common practice.
Later, Xun Yu personally came to talk to Cao Cao about the matter and praised the move highly.
He said that as a master, you can provide money and grain to the people, but you do not need such things. If Cao Cao can become prime minister in the future, then money will not be a thing to accumulate savings, but a currency used to govern the country.
He wants and can get a lot.
For example, Dong Zhuo minted small coins and made hundreds of millions of dollars, but the effectiveness of the five baht coins was emptied out, so that he could no longer buy anything. Instead, what could be traded became gold, silver, cloth, and other items. It's like going back to the days of bartering.
Therefore, it can be said that Cao Cao has no shortage of gold and silver, because he can get it at any time if he wants it. This is power.
This is even more true if you are the head of a country. The money in your Majesty's eyes should be collected from the people and used for the people based on the "country".
Between entering and exiting, you can survive for a year.
Naturally, it is impossible for him to care about how much money he has stored in his palace, because he is never short of it.
Therefore, Cao Cao later understood its principles, although at that time Xun Yu was talking about the principles of governing a state.
But Cao Cao could think of something more profound.
Zhang Han listened to Cao Cao's tone at this moment and understood that he had always had insight, so he said honestly: "That's it, let's take a gamble... Anyway, the emperor is coming, and these things will be valuable in the future. The closer to the capital, the more valuable it will be." The benefits are all within Yingchuan anyway."
"Of course it's impossible in Yanzhou. It's not easy to defend the Yellow River in Dongjun, and Yanzhou is often hit by the overflow of the Yellow River. Only this place is the best, with barriers on all sides. You can also use the eight passes of Luoyang to guard the border."
"I feel that this person should not only do things that he is absolutely certain of. Even if there is only two or three points of possibility, he should fight against the current and go against the current."
"Nothing in this world is truly 100% certain. There are always variables, but it is also because of the constant variables and difficulties that success becomes so valuable."
Zhang Han looked solemn, folded his hands in front of him, and knelt down opposite Cao Cao, discussing this matter with a faint light in the narrow space of this carriage.
He paused, looked at Cao Cao, and said with a smile: "Now, Yuan Shao has defeated Gongsun Zan, and Zan built Yijing to trap him. He will be destroyed in just a short time."
"As soon as Yuan Shao defeats Gongsun Zan, he can capture Youzhou, Jizhou, Bingzhou and Qingzhou where his son Yuan Tan is located. Coupled with the reputation of their Yuan family, they can have millions of soldiers and countless battle armors within a few years."
"In this way, we are far more powerful than the people in Yanzhou and Xuzhou. Sooner or later, we will have a battle with General Yuan Shao. This battle will determine who can dominate north of the Yellow River. When the time comes, I don't know how many people will be afraid and retreat. , will be timid."
Zhang Han's style changed and he actually mentioned this. Cao Cao's whole body was lifted up and he immediately sat upright. "Yes, although the outcome will be unknown by then, no one is optimistic about us."
Gongsun Zan's reputation is too great. He has gained a reputation by guarding the border for ten years. He still lost to Yuan Shao in a fierce battle, which shows what will happen in the future.
However, does such a distant thing have anything to do with this kid's current incident?
Cao Cao's blood cooled down a little, and he noticed something was wrong, and looked at Zhang Han quietly.
"I am taking this action to inform all civil and military officials that where there is a will, things can come true! There is no need to be timid before fighting. If there is a chance, you can plan everything and fight until you have no regrets -"
"That's it, that's it..." Cao Cao couldn't listen anymore. The truth was such that it was enough to inspire people.
But when he said it at this time, Cao Cao was filled with disgust, and Zhang Bo often insulted Confucianism and strategy.
No matter what strategies or plans he used in these places, Cao Cao always felt that the art of war he respected was being ruined.
"You're not sure, so you're taking a gamble, right?" Cao Cao reluctantly accepted this statement, and it was also in line with Zhang Han's usual style.
Therefore, Cao Cao did not pursue the question any further.
Not long after, the carriage arrived at the palace. The two got out of the car and walked along the corridor to the spacious campus and headed towards the palace where there were many guards.
After a while, someone from the palace came to greet them and welcomed Cao Cao and Zhang Han into the palace.
"Your Majesty knows we are coming?" Cao Cao asked with a smile.
Xiao Huangmen smiled and bowed in response, "Go back to Sikong. As early as when Sikong entered, someone went to notify His Majesty to come to the main hall."
"Now Shangshu Ling is waiting in front of the palace to have an audience with Sikong."
"Hehehe," Cao Cao waved his hand, "There is no need to call me Sikong. This position is beyond my ability, so I am not qualified."
"Didn't Mr. Cao come here to thank you?" Xiao Huangmen's face was very surprised. He seemed to have never seen such a person who was indifferent to fame and fortune, and he didn't even want to be granted an official title by the emperor.
"No, Your Majesty, are you waiting for me to thank you? Hehehehe..." Cao Cao chuckled softly, and Huangmen couldn't change his mind. He led Cao Cao along the steps to the main hall. After the two took off their shoes, they entered the main hall. Inside, he bowed to the emperor.
Zhang Han actually liked this very much. The Han Dynasty was not as polite as later dynasties. When meeting the emperor, one had to kneel down and bow down.
In the Han Dynasty, bowing was actually a big deal. Unless it was a truly important occasion, such as offering sacrifices to heaven, conferring a Zen title, or receiving a title, which required a prostrate ceremony, there were no special requirements.
Liu Xie sat in his seat, looked at Cao Cao with a smile, then looked at Zhang Han, and nodded in greeting.
"The two beloved ladies came to see you late at night. Why?"
Cao Cao cupped his hands and said: "Your Majesty, I have received news that the former Tutor Ma Rixi, the Attendant Zhao Wen, and the envoy Jin Shang were all detained by Yuan Shu to Huainan, and their talismans were robbed. In the name of Your Majesty, he recruited troops to expand his territory and attack He attacked Guangling, Quyang, Lujiang and other places with the intention of occupying the east of the Yangtze River and becoming independent. Previously, when I welcomed His Majesty, he also sent troops to obstruct it."
"Oh, this..." Liu Xie was startled and looked a little flustered. He looked around and saw no other ministers, so he didn't know how to answer.
In the past, people would give advice, but this time Cao Cao came in a hurry and went to the palace late at night to report. He was not sure what Cao Cao meant.
"Then, according to your wishes, what should I do?"
"It's not what I want to do," Cao Cao handed over his hand again, and his slightly hoarse and deep voice echoed in the hall: "It's your Majesty who heard about this situation and thought how to deal with it. I obey your Majesty's orders."
Liu Xie was stunned after hearing this, and slowly sat up straight, his eyes almost trembling.
He, he asked my opinion and obeyed my orders...
My ancestors, I finally met a capable and loyal minister of the Han Dynasty.
In the past, have those traitors ever asked me for my opinion? Even among the ministers, they bullied me because I was young and often neglected me. Even if I wanted to make a decision, if it didn't go as planned, they would keep making suggestions.
Trying to change my destiny, sometimes I really don't know how to face it, but today, this Cao Qing, actually respected me so much, God has mercy on me, and sent such a capable minister to my royal family!
God bless the man...
Liu Xie's mind was wandering and he had mixed feelings, but it was still difficult to take this step, so he asked slowly: "Cao Qing's family, I am still young, so I may not be safe."
"Your Majesty, please give me your instructions. I will listen carefully and think carefully before making corrections. Besides, how could your Majesty be wrong?" Cao Cao said directly.
Comfortable……
Liu Xie only felt that Cao Cao's words were really comforting.
"I feel that Duke Yuan of Huainan is the direct son of the Yuan family. His family is deeply favored by the emperor, so he should not usurp the Han Dynasty and establish himself. This is related to the reputation of the family for hundreds of years. How dare he do this..." Liu Xie said with a slight obstruction. I expressed my opinion.
Among the three princes who assisted the government at that time, Yuan Wei of the Yuan family was his teacher when he was young.
He was quite courageous and never bowed to Dong Zhuo. He argued many times in the court. Later, because Yuan Shao raised troops outside, Dong Zhuo killed his whole family.
But Liu Xie still kept the kindness in his heart. He felt that although Cao Cao said there was a military report, it might just be a superficial investigation, and he didn't know the reason.
What if Yuan Shu did this as a last resort to protect the country and the people?
"Well, His Majesty has a kind heart, which is gratifying. I understand."
Cao Cao bowed his hands and said no more words.
Liu Xie was a little scared. He saw that Cao Cao's face was not very good. In Chang'an, he had become accustomed to observing his words and expressions, but now he felt nervous again.
He asked uncertainly: "Cao Aiqing, do you think I am soft-hearted and unable to distinguish between loyalty and treachery?"
"Reporting to Your Majesty, I only feel that Your Majesty is benevolent, and everything he thinks is benevolent. This is a good thing. If you are benevolent as a king, your virtues will spread throughout the sea, and the people will support and follow you, which will make you a wise king."
"Then, how would Cao Aiqing handle this matter if he were a wise king?"
Cao Cao smiled and said: "Well, I believe that a wise king will not deal with it rashly, but will also investigate the original cause. He should issue an edict to promote Yuan Shu of the state and order him to send the Taifu and the ministers back to Xudu to return to Xudu. "
"If he refuses, there must be something wrong with it; if he sends it back, then just ask them directly."
"If they were threatened and wronged in Yangzhou, they would definitely not be threatened by Yuan Shu and come back to expose their crimes to the public."
"Okay..." Liu Xie nodded. This is indeed the truth. Cao Aiqing handled things properly and had clever strategies.
And he is willing to teach me. His words are full of careful teaching and patient guidance. I really shouldn't have treated him so slowly before...
"Then according to Ai Qing's opinion, I ordered the Chancellor to draw up an edict, summon Taifu Ma and Zhao Shizhong back, and praise them for their hard work over the years. I will not pursue Yuan Shu's principles for the time being, and let's see how he responds."
"Your Majesty, your Majesty." Cao Cao smiled cheerfully and was about to resign, but when he looked at Zhang Han, he suddenly slapped his forehead and said, "Oh, I almost forgot about this person."
"This man, Zhang Bochang, used to be the chief clerk of my account. He was previously favored too much by his ministers, which made him disrespect military discipline. Now, he has been personally appointed by His Majesty as the Tun Cavalry School Lieutenant. However, he does not go to guard the imperial city. He is in the mansion. Drinking in the courtyard."
"Alas, I brought him here to plead guilty to His Majesty."
Liu Xie blinked and looked at Zhang Han and found that his face was indeed reddish and his eyes were like water. This was indeed the appearance of someone drinking.
Then he immediately became strange and asked with concern: "Zhang Aiqing, do you think the official position I gave you is too small?"
Still, I don't want to do garrison work, I want to have some leisure time... But I have also been granted the title of Marquis of Qingting, so I should be grateful.
Zhang Han's face was not good, and he lowered his head in mourning. After hearing this, he bowed his hands and sighed: "It's not that I left my post without authorization and disrespected discipline, but that the general of the auxiliary country once warned that we are not allowed to approach the imperial city. I heard that General Fu Wan is a relative of the state, so I just took it as His Majesty’s wish.”
"Why have I ever said this!" Liu Xie suddenly frowned, "My dear, you only need to guard the imperial city. I received the favor of saving my life that day and have already paid my respects. How can I be so guarded against you?"
I wish you and Dian Wei could guard the palace... For this reason, Liu Xie specially assigned Zhang Han's black-robed armored cavalry to the 700 places assigned to them by the captain of the garrison.
"Your Majesty..." Zhang Han looked at the two people from side to side in embarrassment, and finally his face suddenly became firm and he said loudly: "Your Majesty, it is better to remove me from my official position. I am responsible for my duties today. I only follow orders. It is not a life-saving gesture."
"My dear," Liu Xie became a little angry, "What are you talking about?"
When Zhang Han handed over his hand, he secretly pinched the small piece of flesh in his mouth. The pain was so intense that it shot straight to the brain.
As some sad and wronged things were forcibly recalled one after another, my nose suddenly became sore. I closed my eyes with all my strength and squeezed, and a few tears came out.
He choked with sobs and said angrily: "Your Majesty, I was taught by my parents since I was a child to be upright, observant, loyal, and filial. When I grew up, I was enlightened by my mentor to know etiquette, understand friendship, and not be good at slacking off.
I was fond of learning when I was young. The family was poor and had no way to read the books, so every time they borrowed them from a book collector, they would write them down with their own hands and count the days to return them.
It's freezing cold, the table is frozen, and you can't bend or stretch your fingers, so don't be lazy. After recording, I went to see him off, not daring to exceed the appointment. Therefore, many people spend their spare time reading books, and I have to read all kinds of books.
After being crowned, I admire the way of the sages. Also, there are people who are not famous enough to have great masters. They often travel hundreds of miles away, and come from the hometown to hold scriptures and ask questions. The first master, Delong Wangzun, and his disciples..."
Zhang Han spoke eloquently, with a hint of helplessness in his tone of sorrow and anger, which gradually made Liu Xie very fascinated.
Not to mention Liu Xie, Cao Cao looked confused and his eyes widened, but he did not dare to show it too much.
Is this girl really talking about you? Have you been interested in learning since you were young? I believe you have been bloodthirsty since you were a child!
You have been copying books since you were a child. The cloth and paper used for your calligraphy alone are enough to bankrupt an ordinary household.
Can you still have these experiences? !
But Zhang Han spoke in a reasonable and coherent manner, with sincere feelings and a clear structure. It would have been impossible to express such rich emotions on the spot without having experienced it in advance, and these scenes were suitable for the poor Bai Ding.
Cao Cao did not think that Zhang Han had prepared this in advance. First of all, he did not know that he was going to the palace. Secondly, this was not poetry. Finally, no one would be bored enough to write these things on weekdays to prepare.
But as soon as this idea came up, Cao Cao suddenly felt that Zhang Han seemed to be such a boring person...
Wasn't it really prepared in advance?
(End of chapter)
