The First Great Ancestor of the Five Dynasties

Chapter 540: On the Khitan’s Trouble

It is difficult to say which one of the two "Pingbian Policy" is better. Criticism of the article is a matter of opinion. Unless it is worse than the two dozen semi-literate officials on the blacklist who have typos and fluent sentences throughout the article, then it is really difficult for anyone to read it. Have to shake your head.

Chai Rong would not insist on competing between the two. In his mind, the general strategic direction of south to north also echoed his expectations.

It was just the subtle differences that made Chai Rong still a little unsure about paying attention.

Tao Gu advocated first south then north, which meant taking Huainan first, and then making adjustments based on the situation in the world, either marching into Xichuan to destroy Hou Shu, or concentrating on conquering Youyan. On the contrary, the Tang State was not in a hurry to perish.

Wang Pu advocated going south first and then north. He also wanted to take the land of Huainan first, and then guard Hebei, Guanzhong, and Hanzhong to prevent the Khitan and Hou Shu from taking the opportunity to invade. The strategic intention was still to focus on the south of the Yangtze River to destroy Tang and Wuyue. The main areas were Jiangnan and Min.

Wang Pu believes that as long as the north and south of the Yangtze River are unified, it will be easy to regain Youyan.

There is only one deadly enemy in the Great Zhou Dynasty, which is Taiyuan and the Northern Han Dynasty. They need to use strong troops to destroy them with overwhelming force without leaving any future troubles.

The two opinions each have their own reasons. Chai Rong thought for a long time and looked at Zhu Xiudao: "Both of them said that the idea of ​​​​first south and then north was inspired by you. You might as well tell me how we should go about the great cause of unifying the Zhou Dynasty. That’s right?”

Zhu Xiu smiled and said: "The minister's point of view is just to integrate the points of view in the articles of Tao Gong and Wen Bogong. To put it simply, it consists of three steps.

The first step is to take Huainan first. This land with dense population and taxation has extremely high strategic value and is the top priority!
The second step was to pacify Jingnan and Lingnan, recruit Wu and Yue to surrender, and form an outflanking trend against the Southern Tang Dynasty.

The third step depends on the world situation. If a fighter plane appears, I advocate attacking Youyan first, retaking the Hebei barrier, and consolidating the security of the Central Plains. "

Wang Pu couldn't help but question: "The south of the Yangtze River is rich, but the monarchs and ministers are weak. Why not take it first? What should we do if Hou Shu and Khitan invade when we are concentrating our forces to march south?"

Chai Rong remained silent, obviously having the same doubts as Wang Pu.

Zhu Xiu was calm and said with a smile: "The monarchs and ministers in the south of the Yangtze River are fond of romance, reciting poems, listening to music and listening to operas as a form of elegance, and engaging in warfare, practicing martial arts, and being aggressive as a custom. This bad custom is indeed common among the upper echelons of the bureaucracy. But this does not mean that this is the case among civilians and the military!
Since Yang Xingmi separatized Jianghuai, the land south of the Yangtze River has gradually become an independent entity. The Li family has been governed by two generations, Li Min and Li Jing. They stopped the army to support the people, and the country gradually became peaceful. In the minds of the people and soldiers, they naturally trusted the Jiangning court more.

Generally speaking, although Jiangnan is weak, there are still many people who will fight to the death. Although the Khitan is strong, there are still opportunities to take advantage of it! "

Chai Rong said solemnly: "What do you mean, the Tang Kingdom is not as easy to capture as imagined, and the Khitan's rule in Youyan is not indestructible?"

Zhu Xiu cupped his hands: "Exactly!"

Wang Pu also said: "I also believe that if you want to destroy the prestige of the Jiangnan court in the minds of the subjects, you can't do it with one or two small victories. After all, it has been more than fifty years since the land of Jiangnan left the control of the Central Plains~ "

Chai Rong said: "Tell me about Hou Shu, how should we deal with it?"

Zhu Xiudao: "It will be difficult for Meng Chang to retreat to Xichuan after all, but it will be really troublesome to send troops to harass Guanzhong while our court is using troops. To deal with Meng Shu, I think it is better to use offense instead of defense, take the initiative to attack, and seize Qin, Cheng, Jie, The land of Feng Sizhou compressed the strategic space of the Shu army, forcing it to retreat to western Sichuan and Hanzhong, and did not dare to easily spy on our land in Guanzhong!
Jiezhou is the key to Qinlong and the throat of Bashu. By guarding Jiezhou, we can block the Shu army from leaving Sichuan. We, Jingyuan and Guanzhong, will be protected from the harassment of the Shu army! "

Chai Rong nodded frequently, the light in his eyes getting brighter and brighter.

His eyes were always on the Southern Tang and Khitan, but he had not thought deeply about Meng Shu.

How to deal with Hou Shu, Zhu Xiu's words give the best answer.

Tao Gu admired without leaving any trace: "The Duke of Zhu County is really a mature man who plans for the country! In this way, I will have no future troubles in the Western Territory of the Great Zhou Dynasty, and can concentrate on conquering the north and south!"

Zhu Xiu humbly cupped his hands and said, "Tao Gong and Wen Bogong are in front of me, but I'm just picking up people's wits!"

The two guys looked at each other and smiled, saying nothing.

When flattering each other in front of the emperor, you also need to be careful.

Wang Pu fell into deep thought, and Zhu Xiu's words also gave him new revelations.

Seeing that he was silent, Chai Rong smiled and said, "If Mr. Wen has anything to say, you might as well say it directly."

Wang Pu bowed his head and said in admiration: "People say that Zhu Wencai has the talent to manage the world, but today we know that the rumors are true! Zhu Shilang's suggestions are more comprehensive and thoughtful, Wang admires him!"

Zhu Xiu smiled and said, "Mr. Wen is too praised."

Chai Rong looked at the two of them and laughed heartily: "Both of you have their own merits in their suggestions. I called you here for discussion today, and you have benefited a lot!"

The two of them thanked each other again.

In fact, Chai Rong knew very well that compared to Zhu Xiu's suggestion, Wang Pu's strategic plan was too passive and too clever, putting the strategy of conquering Jiangnan at the top of the list.

According to Wang Pu's vision, the premise of national unification is based on the complete destruction of the Southern Tang Dynasty.

As for Houshu, Wuyue, Jingnan, Lingnan and other places, there is nothing to fear.

When the north and south of the Yangtze River are unified, the recovery of Youyan will be just around the corner.

Chai Rong asked Zhu Xiu again: "You just said that the Khitan side has an opportunity to take advantage of it. What do you mean?"

Zhu Xiu said with a smile: “Although the Khitan was established in full imitation of the Han system, the tribal and aristocratic alliance system that has existed for hundreds of years has not been completely eliminated.

The Yelu Abaoji family is most indispensable for careerists. From the late Empress Dowager Shuluping, Yelu Deguang, Shizong Yelu Ruan, to today's Yelu Jing, all of them won the power of the throne without a fierce fight.

The inheritance of the throne of the Liao Kingdom was naturally accompanied by bloodshed. The fundamental reason was that the upper-class Khitan aristocrats were wavering between fully Sinicizing and learning the Han family's clothing traditions, and adhering to the ancestral system and maintaining tribal alliance slavery.

I predict that the tradition of fighting for power within the Khitan will continue. Without several generations of fighting and evolution, it will be difficult for the Khitan people to reach a consensus on the overall development.

I suggest you pay close attention to the internal situation in Khitan. Once there is internal chaos and the Khitan tribes fall into internal fighting, it will be a good opportunity for our country to send troops to regain Youyan! "

Chai Rong nodded silently and did not comment on Zhu Xiu's words.

Wang Pudao: "The Khitans are powerful and their troops are fierce. Once a war starts, the outcome is unpredictable. Why not wait until the country is completely unified and the national strength is improved, and then slowly start to plan for it?"

Zhu Xiu smiled bitterly and said: "Mr. Wen Bo has thought about it, if we wait until our dynasty is completely unified, and then manage it for a few more years to accumulate national strength, and then mobilize heavy troops for the Northern Expedition to fight the Khitan people.

But by that time, the internal integration of the Khitan nobility had basically been completed, the system was unified, the orders were strict, there was no longer any worry of civil strife, and the national power was booming, not necessarily any worse than our own.

At that time, the Khitans occupied all of Youyan's geographical advantages and had the strategic initiative. It was up to the Khitans to decide whether to fight or make peace.

The defense from Hebei to Yunshuo will become an extremely heavy burden for our country.

At that time, if we want to solve the border problems, it will not be possible in one or two generations. The Han and Khitan will fall into a long-term confrontation. "

"This" Wang Pu was stunned. He opened his mouth but found it difficult to refute. He smiled bitterly and sighed.

Chai Rong and Wang Pu both looked solemn and silent.

What Zhu Xiu said is indeed entirely possible.

Several plans of the Khitans to invade the south came to an end. Isn't it because at the critical moment, the upper-class aristocratic group launched turmoil and fought fiercely among themselves for the throne, and finally had no time to go south?
After Yelu Abaoji, Yelu Deguang came to power, and he teamed up with his mother Shuluping to deal with his brother Yelvbei, and put him under house arrest in Dongdan, forcing Yelubei to move to Nantou to Mingzong Li Siyuan.

After Yelu Deguang, Yelu Ruan won the support of most tribal leaders by virtue of his military exploits and his status as the eldest grandson of Taizu.

Shuluping favored his younger son Yelulihu, and the two sides faced off across the Sanggan River.

After the mediation of many parties, a crossing agreement was reached to avoid a tragic civil war.

In the first year of Guangshun, Liu Chong asked Yelu Ruan to send troops south to destroy the Zhou Dynasty. When they arrived at Xianggu Mountain in Wuzhou, they were killed and killed. The Khitan army hurriedly returned home.

Yelv Jing, the eldest son of Yelu Deguang, rose up unexpectedly, led his army to put down the rebellion of various tribes, and ascended to the throne. Taizong Yelu Deguang's lineage regained power.

However, the root causes of Khitan internal strife still exist and will not subside for some time to come.At present, the internal fighting mainly occurs between the two branches of Yelu Bei and Yelv Deguang. The Khitan royal family still controls most of the power.

How long this infighting will last, no one knows.

Once the Khitan is allowed to complete the transformation from a slave tribal system to a feudal system, this chaos will soon subside, and the Liao Kingdom will also enter a stage of rapid development.

If by then, Youyan still cannot be recaptured, the offensive and defensive situation of the Liao Kingdom and the Central Plains Dynasty can be imagined.

Chai Rong let out a long breath: "If you don't eliminate Youyan's troubles, it will eventually harm future generations!"

Everyone felt heavy in their hearts, as it was urgent to regain Youyan.

Seeing the ugly expressions on everyone's face, Zhu Xiu was afraid that what he said would frighten them, so he quickly smiled and said: "Your Majesty and the princes do not need to worry too much. After all, the Khitan has implemented a slave tribal system for hundreds of years and wants to complete the evolution in a short time. It is impossible. At present, time is still on our side. As long as we work steadily and steadily increase our national strength, I believe that one day we can regain Youyan and reshape the northern border defense!"

Chai Rong cheered up and said with a smile: "Zhu Xiu is right. The dispute between the Zhou Dynasty and the Khitan will not be settled overnight. The most urgent task now is to quell the internal troubles!"

Wang Pu cupped his hands and said: "I suggest that the two peace border policies written by Tao Gong and Wen Bogong be included in the record, and all the ministers should be gathered to study, discuss extensively, and integrate people's hearts, so as to prepare for the court to make major plans in the future!"

Chai Rong smiled and said: "What a good idea, just do what you say!"

Zhu Xiu couldn't help but look at Wang Pu a few more times. Could this guy come from some party group in some unit?

Chai Rong looked at Wang Pu and Tao Gu, pondered for a moment, and said: "From now on, Wang Pu will be promoted to Deputy Privy Envoy and Minister of Household Affairs! Tao Gu"

Wang Pu was stunned, as if he did not expect that the emperor would suddenly promote him to an official position.

Zhu Xiu reminded: "Brother Wen, why don't you thank me quickly?"

Wang Pu hesitated for a moment, then bowed his head and said, "I thank your Majesty for your kindness!"

Tao Gu swallowed his saliva and hurriedly fell to the ground in agitation, lowering his head and not daring to say a word, his heart pounding fiercely.

Chai Rong frowned, seeming a little embarrassed.

Tao Gu had never been in his sight before, and he didn't know how to deal with him for a while.

However, Tao Gu's "Pingbian policy" was indeed well written and quite insightful. Chai Rong was promoted to Wang Pu's official position, so he could not ignore Tao Gu.

Zhu Xiu coughed lightly and pretended to be casual and said: "Your Majesty, I will not be the minister of the Central Secretariat for a long time. Mr. Tao has been serving in the Central Secretariat for a long time and is familiar with the family. Why don't we let him succeed the minister?"

Chai Rong thought about it and thought it was feasible. He smiled and said, "Yes, Tao Gu will be appointed as the Minister of Zhongshu to assist Wang Pu in managing Zhongshu affairs."

Tao Gu suppressed the ecstasy in his heart and kowtowed: "Old minister, I have received the order to thank you!"

From Yousanqi Changshi to Zhongshu Shilang, they both seem to be third-rank officials, but in fact their power is very different.

Chai Rong also made it clear that he would no longer actually grant Zhongshu orders in the future, and the two ministers of Zhongshu were the actual leaders of Zhongshu Province.

Tao Gu took this small step from being a marginal figure in the imperial court to becoming an important official in charge of the core secrets of the imperial government. The effect can be said to be astonishing!
The old man was trembling with excitement and almost cried with joy.

However, Chai Rong also made it very clear that of the two ministers of Zhongshu, Wang Pu was the chief and Tao Gu was the deputy.

Firstly, Wang Pu was appointed prime minister with the title of Tongping Zhangshi, and secondly, Chai Rong believed in Wang Pu's ability even more.

Chai Rong decided on the appointment and didn't think much about it immediately.

Although Tao Gu's past character was not good, he was confident that he could train him into a useful person.

Being an official under his nose, you have to think carefully if you want to cheat.

"Zhu Xiu, please hand over to Tao Qing as soon as possible. The day after tomorrow, I will convene the ministers at the Zichen Palace to discuss the reform of the military department in front of the palace. At the same time, I will also decide on the main strategy of the court for the next two years. You will all be there on time to participate."

Chai Rong warned.

"I will obey your orders!"

After everyone bowed together, they retreated from the hall.

"Wen Bogong and Tao Gong are very happy to be promoted today. Why don't you host them and have a banquet at Taihe Tower?" Zhu Xiu suggested.

Wang Pu shook his head and said apologetically: "I still have a few articles to finish and am unable to attend the banquet. Please forgive me, Lord Zhu County!"

Zhu Xiu said enthusiastically: "Just take a day off and write again tomorrow!"

Wang Pu still shook his head and said seriously: "I have official business tomorrow, so I can't delay it. Please forgive me!"

After saying that, Wang Pu bowed his hands to everyone and left the palace first.

Wang Pu said with a smile: "Brother Wen Bo has always been like this. Wen Cai doesn't need to take it to heart."

Zhu Xiu said with a smile: "No, Lord Wen is a noble and indifferent person, he should be a role model for our generation!

Wang Xianggong thought that he had nothing to do, so why not go have a drink and try the newly arrived sweet-scented osmanthus brew? "

Wang Pu smiled bitterly and said: "I really wanted to go, but just now I remembered that I still have an important task entrusted to me by Your Majesty. I'm afraid I won't be able to bear it!"

"Oh? What's the matter?" Zhu Xiu asked curiously, "If it's inconvenient, just say so."

Wang Pu waved his hand: "An old friend of your Majesty's came to Beijing. Your Majesty ordered me to take him to Honglu Temple to stay temporarily. I have to go there myself and settle in properly."

Zhu Xiu and Tao Gu were both surprised. Who could obey the emperor's instructions and be received by the prime minister personally?

Wang Pu said: "It's a Chanzhou official named Wang Zhu. I heard that His Majesty was in Chanzhou back then and got along well with him."

Zhu Xiu was stunned. It took a long time before the sound rang. Who was this Wang Zhu?

"In that case, I'll invite Mr. Wang to have a drink with me next time!" Zhu Xiu smiled and cupped his hands, and the two parties said goodbye.

When Wang Pu walked away, Tao Gu whispered: "Who is this king?"

Zhu Xiu shook his head and sighed: "A scholar who is not afraid of death is also a good person."

Tao Gu was even more curious: "Has Mr. Zhu County seen this person before?"

Zhu Xiu laughed: "I only heard his name, but I haven't seen him! I want to meet him someday! Let's go, if they don't go, we will go by ourselves. We won't come back until we get drunk tonight!"

After a pause, Zhu Xiu added: "Mr. Tao's treat!"

Tao Gu patted his chest and said: "Of course I have to come and invite you! Not only do you have to drink wine, but you also have to ask Lady Bilian, the young lady from Ningxiangzhai, to accompany the wine and sing a song called "Yuanyang Pu" to add to the fun!"

"Uh~ Well~" Zhu Xiu rubbed his hands, a little longingly, but also a little hesitant, gritted his teeth and said: "Forget it, you and I are talking about some confidential things. It's not good for outsiders to hear!"

Tao Gu chuckled and said, "Is Mr. Zhu afraid that the beauty in his family will notice something fishy?"

Zhu Xiu puffed up her chest and shouted: "The head of the family in this county's court, how can he allow a woman to dictate what he does outside? Go and ask Lady Bilian to sing for me at Taihe Tower!"

(End of this chapter)