Shuhan

The Han Dynasty had gone through many ups and downs since Emperor Liu Bei founded the country, and decades had passed since Liu Chan ascended the throne.

After the empire was initially settled and the imperial examination system was implemented, the people of Luoyang finally found peace. The streets became prosperous again, with children laughing and merchants coming and going, creating a peaceful scene.

However, the court was in turmoil, and a dispute over the capital was unfolding.

Chang'an and Luoyang, the two ancient capitals, are like the two ends of a scale, carrying the different expectations and considerations of the ministers, and the sound of debate is endless.

The atmosphere in the hall was solemn during the morning court session. An official stepped out, looking respectful but unable to conceal his eagerness: "Your Majesty, Chang'an is the place where Emperor Gaozu rose to power. It has a solid foundation after several dynasties. Its terrain is strategic, surrounded by mountains and numerous passes, making it easy to defend but difficult to attack. If we make Chang'an our capital, we can retreat to defend the mountains and rivers to protect the Han Dynasty; we can advance to the east to plot against the Central Plains and revive the Han Dynasty. This is the foundation for a great cause for generations to come." Fei Yi's words were sincere and powerful, and there was a burst of echoes in the court.

The people from Guandong were naturally displeased when they saw this. Zhong Hui frowned slightly, took a step forward, and said loudly: "Although what the Prime Minister said makes sense, Luoyang cannot be ignored. Luoyang is located in the center of the world, with convenient transportation and developed water transport. Tributes from all directions can all be gathered here. Moreover, Luoyang has been a place of cultural prosperity and a country of etiquette since the Zhou and Han dynasties. Establishing the capital in Luoyang can show that our Han Dynasty has inherited the orthodoxy, educate the people with virtue, and unite the hearts of the people in the world. Moreover, the people here have deep feelings for our Han Dynasty. Establishing the capital here can also comfort the people."

As soon as these words were spoken, ministers from the other group nodded in agreement.

General Jiang Wei also came out and said, "Your Majesty, Chang'an is adjacent to the Western Regions, which is conducive to sending troops to the west. Our soldiers have been preparing for many years, aiming to restore the glory of the Former Han Dynasty. Establishing the capital in Chang'an will make our army more convenient to move, and we can attack quickly and directly hit the enemy's nest. Although Luoyang is good, it is far away from the front line, which is not conducive to military deployment."

At this time, an old minister slowly stood up. It was the Grand Tutor Xu Jing.

His hair was white, but his voice was steady and powerful: "What you said is all for the national plan. However, Chang'an has gone through wars and its former prosperity no longer exists. The palace is seriously damaged. If we make Chang'an the capital, it will take a lot of manpower and material resources to repair it. This is undoubtedly a heavy burden for the people of our Han Dynasty. The city of Luoyang is still there, and it can be used after a little repair, which can save people's energy and allow them to recuperate."

For a time, there were many different opinions in the court. Those who supported Chang'an emphasized its military strategic significance and historical status, while those who supported Luoyang valued its transportation, culture and popular support.

Both sides insisted on their own opinions and refused to give in, and the argument became increasingly intense.

Liu Chan sat on the dragon throne with a frown on his face, his heart filled with confusion.

He knew very well that the matter of establishing the capital was related to the destiny of the Han Dynasty and must be handled with caution.

Establishing the capital in Chang'an was certainly a strategic location that would be beneficial for military expansion, but the huge cost of rebuilding Chang'an and the burden on the people forced him to have many concerns.

Although Luoyang has many conveniences, its defense is relatively weak, which is also a hidden concern in his heart.

After retiring from court, Liu Chan paced alone in the imperial garden, trying to clear his mind.

The breeze blew by and the fragrance of flowers wafted in the air, but they could not dispel the haze in his heart.

He thought of the hardships the previous emperor had gone through in starting his business and the ups and downs the Han Dynasty had gone through. Now the decision of where to locate the capital seemed like a crossroads of fate. If he took a wrong step, he could be doomed.

At this time, the eunuch quietly followed behind him and said carefully: "Your Majesty, in my opinion, Luoyang is very good. It is close to where we live now, and we don't have to go to great lengths to get there. Moreover, Luoyang is bustling, and Your Majesty can enjoy a peaceful life there."

Liu Chan glared at him and shouted, "Shut up! This is a matter of national importance, how can you talk nonsense here?" The eunuch was so scared that he knelt on the ground immediately, not daring to say another word.

A few days later, Liu Chan summoned several trusted ministers to discuss the matter again in a side hall.

Zhuge Liang said, "Your Majesty, this matter concerns the safety of the country and the people's support. I have already sent envoys to Chang'an and Luoyang to investigate the situation in the two places, including people's livelihood, economy, military defense, etc., and then make a decision based on the opinions of the ministers."

Liu Chan nodded slightly, and immediately realized that Zhuge Liang had a far-sighted vision.

These envoys went deep into the market, talked with the people, and understood their sufferings; surveyed the terrain, evaluated the strengths and weaknesses of military defenses; inspected the palace buildings, and estimated the cost of repairs.

"Let them come to see me."

A few days later, the envoys returned one after another and reported to Liu Chan in detail.

The envoys from Chang'an said that the people around Chang'an were living in poverty. Years of war had left the land barren and the population drastically reduced. The wood, stone and other materials needed to repair the palace had to be transported from afar, which was very costly. The envoys from Luoyang said that the people in Luoyang lived and worked in peace and contentment, business was prosperous, and the water conservancy facilities around Luoyang were complete and agricultural production was stable. However, there were indeed hidden dangers in Luoyang's military defense. Once the enemy army from the north moved south, the Luoyang Plain would be undefended.

After hearing this, Liu Chan found it even more difficult to make a decision.

He summoned his ministers to discuss the matter for several days in a row, but the debate still ended inconclusively.

The atmosphere in the court became increasingly tense, and the relationship between the ministers became delicate.

The ministers who supported Chang'an and those who supported Luoyang were also competing with each other in private, each trying to win over allies and gain the upper hand in this battle for the capital.

……

The next day.

In the solemn and dignified court of the Han Dynasty Palace with its carved beams and painted rafters, the air seemed to be stagnant with tension and solemnity.

The sunlight struggled to filter through the carved window lattices, casting mottled shadows, but it was unable to dispel the tense atmosphere in the hall.

Liu Chan sat high on the dragon throne, his body straight, his eyes calmly scanning the ministers in the palace.

In the past, he gave people the impression of being magnanimous and kind, but at this moment, his eyes revealed an unprecedented firmness and decisiveness, a determination that came after careful consideration and determination to shoulder the heavy responsibility of supporting the country.

Fei Yi took a step forward, his robe sleeves swaying gently with his movements. He bowed slightly, his tone carrying a bit of earnestness and worry: "Your Majesty, although Chang'an is the place where Emperor Gaozu rose to power and has a strategic location, Luoyang is located in the center of the world. If we rashly establish the two cities as capitals, I am afraid that resources will be dispersed and it will be difficult to take care of both, which will be detrimental to the development of the country." His voice echoed in the empty hall, causing some ministers who supported his point of view to nod and whisper in agreement.

Dong Yun stepped out next. He looked respectful but spoke forcefully: "Your Majesty, choosing a capital is a major national event that will affect future generations. Choosing one of Chang'an and Luoyang as the capital will allow us to focus on governance. Now that there are two capitals, administrative affairs may become complicated and chaotic. I hope Your Majesty will reconsider this."

For a time, there was a lot of discussion in the court, and the voices of support and opposition were intertwined, like a surging wave, one after another.

Liu Chan listened quietly to the advice of his ministers, his face calm as water, but his heart was in turmoil.

He knew very well that the strategy of establishing the capital was of great importance, and every opinion was related to the rise and fall, honor and disgrace of the Han Dynasty.

But he also knew that his decision was not made hastily, but was the result of countless days and nights of weighing and consideration, and was made from the perspective of the entire Han Dynasty.

When the voices of the ministers gradually subsided, Liu Chan slowly stood up. His figure looked even taller and more majestic against the backdrop of his dragon robe.

He cleared his throat, his voice steady and powerful, with an unquestionable momentum: "My dear ministers, I understand your concerns, and I am also aware of the importance of choosing the capital. Chang'an carries the glory and foundation of our Han Dynasty, and its strategic location is a natural barrier against foreign enemies; Luoyang is located in the center of the world, with convenient transportation and prosperous culture, and is the center of economy and culture. The two are like the wings of a bird and the wheels of a car to our Han Dynasty, and neither can be missing."

His eyes were sharp as he glanced at every minister in the court, and he continued, "I have thought carefully about this decision, and this is not an impulsive one. Having Chang'an and Luoyang as the east and west capitals can not only stabilize the northwest border defense, but also prosper the Central Plains economy. The two complement each other and jointly promote the great cause of the rejuvenation of our Han Dynasty. I have made up my mind, and I hope that all of you, my dear ministers, can work together to achieve this great feat." Liu Chan's words were firm and powerful, echoing throughout the court, like a loud bell, shocking people's hearts.

Seeing this, the ministers were still unwilling, but looking at the determined expression of Liu Chan sitting on the dragon throne, they also understood that it was difficult to disobey the emperor's will.

So they knelt down and kowtowed, saying in unison: "We obey your order." The voices were uniform and loud, and echoed in the hall for a long time.

Soon after, the imperial edict was announced to the world.

The edict was written in Han Li, the handwriting was vigorous and powerful, and every word seemed to contain the majesty and determination of the Han Dynasty.

The edict was posted in the streets and alleys of Luoyang and Chang'an, and people gathered around to read it.

For a time, there was a lot of discussion on the streets. Some people were excited about the new capital strategy and looked forward to the prosperity of the Han Dynasty under the leadership of the two capitals; some people had doubts, but no matter what, the promulgation of this edict marked the beginning of a new journey for the Han Dynasty and left a strong mark in the long river of history.

...In late spring, willows sway along the banks of the Luo River, and their tender green branches sway gently in the breeze, as if they were nature's gentle arms waving, adding a touch of gentleness and agility to this ancient capital.

Outside the Suzaku Gate in Luoyang City, there had already been a solemn and dignified scene.

Emperor Liu Chan of the Han Dynasty was wearing a gorgeous dragon robe and a crown on his head. The jade beads on the crown swayed gently with his movements, making subtle sounds, which further highlighted his noble and solemn status. Beside him, civil and military officials were dressed in court robes, lined up in an orderly manner, with respectful and solemn expressions, quietly waiting for the arrival of an important moment.

Liu Chan looked into the distance, his eyes showing both expectation and a bit of anxiety.

He frowned slightly, silently calculating the time in his mind, and muttered to himself: "Counting the days, the Queen should be here soon."

The eunuch Huang Hao beside him hurriedly smiled and said, "Your Majesty, don't worry. The Queen has been exhausted from the long journey, so she must be arriving soon."

At this moment, a tall ship appeared on the river in the distance, with an exquisitely decorated hull and fluttering flags.

As the tower ship slowly approached, a hint of surprise flashed in Liu Chan's eyes. He involuntarily took a step forward, and a long-lost smile appeared on his face.

All the officials straightened their bodies and focused their eyes on the ship that was gradually approaching the shore.

The ship finally docked steadily at the shore, the cabin door slowly opened, and a woman in a phoenix robe slowly walked out.

She had a graceful figure and elegant manners, and she was none other than Empress Zhang of the Han Dynasty.

Her face was still beautiful, but she looked a little tired after a month's long journey. However, this could not conceal the light in her eyes.

Liu Chan walked quickly forward, and the queen also quickened her pace. Under the gaze of everyone, the two hugged each other tightly.

At this moment, time seemed to freeze, everything around them became blurred, and there was only each other in their eyes.

Liu Chan said softly, "Queen, you are finally here. I have been looking forward to seeing you day and night." Zhang's eyes were filled with tears, and she nodded slightly, "Your Majesty, I miss you very much, too."

Afterwards, Liu Chan took the queen's hand and slowly walked towards the Suzaku Gate.

On both sides of the road, people knelt down and worshiped, shouting: "Long live His Majesty, and a thousand years for the Queen." The shouts came one after another, resounding throughout the entire Luoyang city.

Liu Chan and the Queen smiled and nodded slightly to the people, showing the majesty and friendliness of the royal family.

Back in the palace, the grand banquet that had been prepared long ago began.

Inside the magnificent palace, the lights are bright and a festive atmosphere permeates among the carved beams and painted buildings.

Liu Chan and the queen sat side by side on the main seat, and the ministers sat in order below.

At the banquet, the tables were filled with fine wine and delicious food, and the delicacies exuded an enticing aroma.

The dancers, dressed in gorgeous costumes, danced gracefully in the center of the hall. Their graceful dance moves were like flowing clouds and water, which was intoxicating.

The musicians were playing melodious music on the side, the sound of stringed instruments was endless, adding a cheerful atmosphere to the banquet.

Liu Chan picked up the wine glass, stood up, and said loudly: "Today the Queen arrived in Luoyang safely, which is really a joy for our Han Dynasty. I and all the ministers raise a toast to welcome the Queen."

All the ministers stood up, raised their glasses and shouted: "We wish the Queen a safe arrival. Long live the Emperor."

After that, everyone drank it all in one gulp.

The banquet was very lively, and all the ministers toasted to the queen to express their respect and blessings.

The queen responded with a smile, fully demonstrating her demeanor as a model mother of the country.

During this period, ministers also presented gifts they had prepared, including exquisite jewelry, precious calligraphy and paintings, and antiques. The dazzling array was overwhelming.

The banquet lasted until late at night, and Liu Chan and the queen returned to their bedroom surrounded by everyone.

Inside the bedroom, red candles flickered, and the warm candlelight shone on the faces of the two, outlining their happy outlines.

After everyone left, they were the only two left in the bedroom.

As the saying goes, a short separation makes a new marriage better, and at this moment the two of them are very passionate.

Liu Chan gently embraced the queen, stroked her hair tenderly with his fingers, and said, "Queen, you have been traveling a lot this past month, thank you for your hard work."

Zhang leaned in Liu Chan's arms and said softly, "As long as I can be with Your Majesty, no matter how hard it is, it is worth it."

Their eyes met and they stared at each other lovingly.

In this warm and peaceful atmosphere, love flows slowly in their hearts.

Liu Chan slowly lowered his head and gently kissed the queen's lips.

The queen closed her eyes slightly and responded to his kiss.

For a moment, the bedroom was filled with a strong atmosphere of love, and the two were immersed in the joy of meeting again after a long separation, as if everything in the world had ceased to exist, and only the sound of each other's heartbeats could be clearly heard in the silent night.

As their love grew, their movements became more urgent.

Liu Chan's hands gently untied the belt of the queen's phoenix robe, and the robe slowly slid off, revealing the queen's snow-white skin.

The queen's cheeks flushed and her eyes were full of shyness and love.

Liu Chan gently picked up the queen and walked towards the soft bed.

The two of them hugged each other in bed, enjoying each other's warmth and love.

Their bodies fit tightly together, as if they wanted to integrate each other into their lives.

It was late at night and everything was quiet outside the window except for the occasional chirping of insects, as if playing a love melody for the emperor and empress who had been reunited after a long separation.

In this silent night, they clung to each other and made love until late at night.

Until the end, the two fell asleep in each other's arms, with smiles of happiness and satisfaction on their faces.

At this moment, they forgot the disputes in the court and the troubles in the world, and were immersed in this sweet world that belonged to them. (End of this chapter)