Shuhan

It was July of the seventh year of the Tianming period of the Han Dynasty. The sun was scorching, the heat waves were rolling, and the land of Jizhou seemed to be shrouded in an invisible layer of flames.

On this ancient and fertile land, a transformation that concerns the country's destiny is quietly unfolding.

The Emperor of Wei sat on the dragon throne with a deep gaze, his heart concerned about the world. He knew very well that in order to consolidate this eternal foundation, the problem of food self-sufficiency must be solved, so the issue of military farming was put on the agenda.

Jizhou was an important granary of the Wei State, and the success or failure of its military farming was directly related to the safety of the country.

With his iron-fisted tactics and far-sightedness, Sima Yi became the driving force behind this military farming movement.

He personally supervised the battles in various counties of Jizhou. Faced with various obstacles, whether it was the resistance of local tyrants or the doubts of the people, he swept them away one by one with lightning speed.

His figure, like an insurmountable mountain, stands before everyone who tries to stop the change.

However, change always comes with pain.

The gentry of Jizhou, those families who had lived here for generations and owned vast lands and power, suffered heavy losses in this military farming campaign.

Their land was redistributed and their power was weakened, so they naturally felt resentment towards Sima Yi.

Whenever it was late at night and everyone was asleep, there were always young men from noble families gritting their teeth in the dark, vowing to take revenge on this "cold-blooded" official.

But Sima Yi didn't care about it at all. He knew very well that the interests of the country were above everything else and personal grudges were just a small ripple in the torrent of history.

As the military farming in southern Hebei began to show results, Sima Yi turned his attention to northern Hebei.

There, the four counties of Zhongshan, Hejian, Boling and Bohai are also plains with a large population, but they are an important line of defense against the invasion of the Han State.

To defend this land, the power of the imperial court alone is far from enough, and we must rely on the power of local families.

So, a heavy memorial, along with Sima Yi's firm will, was sent to the capital.

In the memorial, Sima Yi elaborated in detail the necessity of building forts and military farms in northern Hebei, as well as the plan to divide the land and people of the four counties among the various families.

He wrote: "Every man has a share of responsibility for the fate of his country. Now that the Han army is watching us closely, we should work together to build a defense line. I hope Your Majesty will understand this and approve this proposal."

After receiving the memorial, the emperor frowned and felt mixed emotions.

He knew very well that this move would greatly enhance the power of the aristocratic family, but facing the threat from the Han State, this seemed to be a helpless move.

After all, compared with the threat from the aristocratic families, handing over northern Ji to the Han State is a crisis that can be encountered at any time, while the latter can be resolved later.

At this time, Zhen Yi, the patriarch of the Zhongshan Zhen family, appeared in the palace at the right time.

He used the Zhen family's reputation and influence in Jizhou as a bargaining chip to assure the emperor that the noble families would do their utmost to guard the border for Wei, while also hinting at the possible consequences if they did not comply.

Under Zhen Yi's lobbying, the emperor finally relaxed his guard, nodded slowly, and approved Sima Yi's proposal.

When the news reached Jizhou, it immediately caused an uproar.

In midsummer, the sun is shining brightly, and the golden light shines all over the earth. However, inside a manor in Yecheng, it is a cool and refreshing world with a unique twist.

The manor is surrounded by mountains and water, and is shaded by green trees, as if it is a summer resort specially reserved by nature for this hot summer.

The gurgling water flows around the carefully carved rockery and merges into a green pond. There are tall lotus flowers in the pond, and occasionally a few koi fish swim among them, creating circles of delicate ripples.

On the shore, bamboo mats are spread out, on which are placed all kinds of exquisite tea sets and wine vessels. Dotted around are pots of blooming orchids, the fragrance is intoxicating, and they contrast beautifully with the mountains and rivers in the distance, forming a moving picture.

At this time, the manor was hosting a unique poetry reading.

The guests were either sitting or standing, their clothes fluttering, chatting and laughing, but they all focused the topic on a major decision recently issued by the court - to let the various families build forts and cultivate land in northern Hebei, and to distribute the lands and people of the four counties of Zhongshan, Hejian, Boling and Bohai to the various families in order to resist the threat of the Han Dynasty.

In a corner of the crowd, Geng Bao, the head of the Geng family in Songzi County, was wearing a light blue Confucian robe with fluttering sleeves, a gaunt face, and a gleam of wisdom in his eyes.

He held a white jade fan in his hand, waving it gently, as if he was thinking about something.

Geng Bao had mixed emotions about the court's decision.

"Although this move is beneficial to the country, distributing the people directly to the noble families may cause dissatisfaction. If it is not handled properly, there may be unexpected changes."

He whispered to himself, his brows slightly furrowed, and a hint of worry appeared in his eyes.

Not far away, Ren Ji, the patriarch of the Wuji Ren family, who was tall and strong with a resolute face, was having a heated discussion with several of his fellow clan members.

Ren is a straightforward person who speaks directly and without disguising anything.

"Humph, the imperial court's move is clearly intended to make us aristocratic families the scapegoats! Farming and guarding the borders are extremely costly, and if the Han army really attacks, we will be the first to bear the brunt!"

There was some dissatisfaction in his words, but more of it was worry about the future.

In comparison, Xing Yong of the Xing family in Zhou County appears to be more stable.

He was wearing a dark green robe and a jade crown on his head. He had a gentle face and exuded a scholarly air in his every move.

Xing Yong was a wise man in the Xing family. He saw both opportunities and potential risks in the court's decisions.

"This matter needs to be carefully considered. If we can take this opportunity to strengthen our family's power while protecting the people, why not do it? But the key is how to balance the interests of all parties and ensure that nothing goes wrong."

He said slowly, his eyes gleaming with deep thought.

As the discussion deepened, the guests' spirits gradually became higher.

Some people agreed with the court's decision, believing that this was a time for the aristocratic families to demonstrate their loyalty and responsibility; some were hesitant, worried that this move would cause unnecessary trouble; and more people were worried about the welfare of the people and the future of their families.

At this time, beautiful maids dressed in gorgeous clothes shuttled lightly among the crowd, holding trays filled with all kinds of fine wines and delicacies, the aroma was fragrant and mouth-watering.

However, the guests' attention was not attracted by these things. Their minds were all on the discussion about the future of their country.

Geng Bao gently waved his jade fan, swept his eyes over the crowd, and slowly spoke: "Everyone, no matter what doubts we have in our hearts, the rise and fall of the country is the responsibility of every citizen. As children of aristocratic families, we should set an example, seek the welfare of the people, and be loyal to the country.

Perhaps, we can jointly submit a petition to the court to put forward our opinions and suggestions, striving to protect the people while ensuring the interests of our family."

Ren Ji raised his eyebrows when he heard this, but then nodded, obviously moved by Geng Bao's words.

"Okay, then we will jointly submit a petition to state our position and strive for more benefits for the people."

Xing Yong smiled slightly and added: "At the same time, we should also strengthen cooperation among the various families and face future challenges together. Only in this way can we remain invincible in troubled times."

As the three clan leaders expressed their opinions, the guests' emotions gradually stabilized and they began to discuss how to implement this decision in detail.

Some of them bowed their heads in deep thought, while others were talking enthusiastically, and everyone's face was filled with expectations and determination for the future. In the manor, the flowing water was still flowing, and the wine and food were still tempting, but at this moment, everyone's heart was no longer attracted by these external things.

Although the aristocratic families hated Sima Yi to the core, facing the emperor's will and the upcoming benefits, they had to temporarily put aside their grudges and began to prepare to build forts and cultivate land in preparation for war.

For a time, the land of northern Hebei was filled with the clamor of people and horses and the flying of dust. Various noble families mobilized, gathered resources, and recruited manpower.

For Jibei, the great changes that have not been seen in a century are coming to the aristocratic families!

It was a hot July day, the sun was scorching, the earth seemed to be baking hot, and the air was filled with a sense of anxiety.

Sima Yi, wearing iron armor and holding a long sword, led a huge army all the way north and finally arrived at Wuji County in Zhongshan County.

This is the foundation of the Zhongshan Zhen family.

Unlike usual, Sima Yi did not lead his troops directly into Wuji County, but turned his horse around and headed towards a vast area in the suburbs.

There, stands a majestic and magnificent fortress, which is nestled against the mountains and beside the water, magnificent and majestic, and covers an area that is almost as large as Wuji County.

Surrounding the fort are large tracts of fertile land. The green rice fields undulate in the wind, like a green ocean, sparkling and beautiful.

In the distance, surrounded by mountains and shrouded in clouds and mist, it adds a bit of mystery and solemnity.

Outside the fort, a clear stream flows by, and the sound of the water is pleasant, as if it is the most melodious music of nature.

By the stream, several ancient mulberry and osmanthus trees stand tall with lush branches and leaves, bringing a rare coolness to this hot summer day.

Under the tree, several children were playing and laughing, adding a bit of vitality and vigor to this solemn and dignified fortress.

Sima Yi and his entourage slowly arrived at the gate of the fortress, only to see the gate wide open. Dozens of armored guards stood on both sides. They were all energetic and had sharp eyes, and were obviously well-trained elite soldiers.

Inside the door, a young man in gorgeous clothes walked out slowly. He had a kind face, white hair and beard, but his eyes revealed a kind of awe-inspiring temperament. This was Zhen Xiang, a young talent from the Zhen family in Zhongshan.

When Zhen Xiang saw Sima Yi, he hurriedly stepped forward and bowed, his attitude respectful but dignified: "General, I am sorry for not coming to greet you. I hope you will forgive me."

Sima Yi smiled and helped up the Zhen statue. He glanced around the fortress and secretly admired the Zhen family's background and strength.

"General Fubo, you are too polite. I came here to discuss something important with you."

Sima Yi spoke as he followed Zhen Xiang into the fortress.

The interior of the fort is ingeniously laid out, with magnificent halls, exquisite gardens, arsenals, horse farms, study rooms and studios. It is like a self-sufficient little world.

The servants had already prepared the banquet, which was filled with a wide variety of delicacies and fragrant aromas.

Sima Yi and Zhen Xiang sat down as host and guest. After three rounds of wine and five dishes, the atmosphere gradually became harmonious.

Sima Yi put down his wine glass and his expression became serious: "General Fubo, I am here for the defense of Zhongshan and Boling counties."

When Zhen Xiang heard this, his heart trembled. He knew that this moment would eventually come.

He slowly put down the chopsticks in his hand, looked at Sima Yi deeply, and waited for the other party's next words.

Sima Yi continued, "Now that the Han army is strong and intends to march north, our Wei must unite all forces to fight against the foreign enemy. As the prominent family of the two counties, the Zhen family of Zhongshan has a great responsibility. This general hopes that the Zhen family can take charge of the defense of the two counties, build forts, fight side by side with the Wei army, and resist the Han army.

At the same time, we should speed up the gathering of the people, and make Zhongshan and Boling counties into impregnable places with numerous forts, so that the Han army will have no supplies and will find it difficult to gain a foothold outside. "

After hearing this, Zhen Xiang was silent for a long time.

This is both an honor and a burden.

Being in charge of two counties meant that the Zhen family could legitimately annex land, take in people, and expand the clan; but at the same time, it also meant taking on the heavy responsibility of resisting the main force of the Han army. If they were not careful, the family might be destroyed and there would be no recovery.

A complicated expression flashed across Zhen Xiang's face. He looked up at Sima Yi, his eyes showing both determination and worry. "General, Zhen will serve the Wei Dynasty, but this matter is of great importance. Please allow me to think twice."

Sima Yi understood Zhen Xiang's concerns. He nodded gently, his eyes full of trust and expectation. "General Fubo, I know this is not easy, but you and I both know that when the country is in crisis, every citizen has a responsibility. The Zhen family is the pillar of the two counties. Only if the Zhen family stands up can we stabilize the people's hearts and resist foreign enemies together."

Upon hearing this, Zhen Xiang stood up and bowed deeply to Sima Yi: "General, I have served the Wei Dynasty and run for you! Although the Zhen family is small, we should do our best to protect our country!"

Sima Yi looked at Zhen Xiang's resolute expression, and he finally felt relieved.

With the support of Zhongshan Zhen family, it would not be easy for the Han Kingdom to take over northern Ji.

He raised his glass and gestured to the Zhen Xiang: "Okay! General Fubo, let's drink this cup together. Cheers to the future of our Great Wei and the glory of the Zhen family!"

The next morning, the sun shone through sparse clouds and onto the bluestone slabs of Zhen's Fort, giving the ancient building a golden coat.

Sima Zhao walked out of the fortress with a frown on his face, a look of worry that was hard to conceal.

He stopped and looked into the distance, the uneasiness in his heart lingering like morning mist.

"Father."

Sima Zhao turned around and called softly to Sima Yi who was slowly walking out of the fort, with a hint of urgency in his tone.

"According to the news from the School Affairs Office, the Han State actually brought Zhen from Chang'an to Guangyang Palace. Their intention is obvious, which is to plot a rebellion against the Zhongshan Zhen family. Now they have begun to secretly contact the Zhongshan Zhen family. Is it too risky for us to hand over the defense of the two counties to Zhen Xiang so easily?"

Sima Yi did not stop when he heard this, but turned his head slightly and looked at Sima Zhao deeply, with a complicated look on his face.

He was dressed in a dark robe and had an upright figure. Although he was already in his forties, his imposing aura still inspired awe in others.

After a moment of silence, Sima Yi slowly spoke in a steady and powerful voice: "Zhao'er, the Han emperor has countless beauties around him, and Zhen is just one of them. How much trouble can she stir up? Even if she gives birth to a prince, how can the eighth prince be guaranteed to become the emperor of the Han Dynasty? Being a relative of the emperor's brother or the emperor's uncle, they have their own considerations in their hearts and will not easily stand on the wrong side."

Sima Yi spoke as he walked slowly forward.

After a while.

He stopped and turned to face Sima Zhao, his eyes gleaming with wisdom: "What we need to do now is not to worry about what will happen to the Zhen family, but to ensure that the people and land of the four counties in northern Ji are distributed smoothly to the various families. There must be no chaos in this process. Only in this way can we consolidate our foundation and resist foreign enemies. As for the Han Kingdom, they are now busy with their own affairs and will not easily harass us."

Sima Zhao seemed to feel less worried after listening to his father's words, but there was still some uneasiness between his brows.

He knew very well that the complexity and cruelty of political struggles were far beyond imagination, and every decision could affect the rise and fall of his family and even the fate of the country.

He lowered his head and pondered for a moment, then looked up at Sima Yi and said firmly: "Father, I understand. I will strengthen intelligence gathering to ensure that we can grasp the movements of the Han Kingdom in a timely manner. At the same time, I will also pay close attention to the actions of the Zhongshan Zhen family, just in case."

Sima Yi nodded with satisfaction, a hint of relief flashing in his eyes.

He patted Sima Zhao on the shoulder and said earnestly: "Zhao'er, you have grown up. You need to make your own judgments and decisions on many things. Remember, no matter when and where, you must remain calm and rational, and don't let your emotions influence your judgment. Our Sima family still has a long way to go in the future." (End of this chapter)