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Li Shimin's gaze swept over the crowd, finally settling on Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui.

Du Ruhui spoke first. He was upright and thoughtful: "Your Highness, Wang Shichong usurped the throne, resisted the imperial army, and ravaged Luoyang. His crimes are unforgivable. According to the law, he should be publicly executed and his entire clan exterminated to serve as a warning to others and to console the souls of the soldiers and civilians who died under his tyranny. However..."

Suddenly, the tone shifted: "However, Wang Shichong surrendered voluntarily, and Your Highness promised to 'only punish the ringleaders and leave the rest unpunished.' If we execute him immediately, it might discourage those who surrendered and damage Your Highness's credibility. Furthermore, he still has many sons, nephews, and former subordinates; improper handling could easily lead to future troubles. In my opinion, it would be better to follow the ancient example of 'presenting captives to the emperor.' Wang Shichong, his core followers, and key officials of the puppet dynasty should be escorted to Chang'an in prison carts and handed over to Your Majesty for judgment. This way, Your Highness's promise will be fulfilled, demonstrating the benevolence of our Great Tang, while also placing the final power of life and death in Your Majesty's hands, highlighting the distinction between ruler and subject, and the proper order of rank. As for his family's property and remaining funds in the treasury, they should be confiscated and used to reward the army and pacify the people."

Fang Xuanling nodded slightly and added, "Keming (Du Ruhui's courtesy name) is quite right. Furthermore, the handling of Wang Shichong's former subordinates should be tiered. His close associates and notorious criminals should be escorted to Chang'an along with Wang Shichong, either publicly executed or imprisoned for life. Mid-level officers and ordinary officials can be made to sign confessions of repentance, and after screening, they can be used according to their abilities, or sent back to their hometowns and strictly controlled. As for ordinary soldiers, the strong and capable should be selected to replenish our army's losses, and the rest should be given some money and rations and sent back to their hometowns to farm, so as to stabilize the local areas. The people of Luoyang have been suffering from famine for a long time, and we should quickly use the captured grain to set up soup kitchens to provide relief, stabilize the people's hearts, and select honest officials to temporarily govern the local areas to restore order. This is the foundation for winning back the hearts of the people."

After listening, Li Shimin pondered for a moment and looked at Changsun Wuji: "What does Fuji (Changsun Wuji's courtesy name) think?"

Changsun Wuji cautiously said, "Xuanling and Keming's strategy is a mature and prudent approach to governing the country. Presenting the prisoners to Chang'an is indeed the best course of action. However, we must be extremely careful during the escort, guarding against their former subordinates and assassins attempting to break them out, and also be wary of... someone trying to silence them."

The words seemed to imply something, but were not explicitly stated. Everyone knew the delicate relationship between Crown Prince Jiancheng and Prince Shimin of Qin. What Wang Shichong would say upon arriving in Chang'an, and whether he would be used, were all uncertain.

A knowing glint flashed in Li Shimin's eyes, but he did not delve into it. Instead, he asked the military officers, "Generals, do you have any suggestions on how to deal with the surrendered prisoners and how to defend Luoyang?"

Yuchi Jingde's voice boomed: "Your Highness, in my humble opinion, few of those Zheng army generals are tough! Most of those who truly fought to the death have already met their end on the city walls. As for the rest, if given a way out, they probably wouldn't dare to rebel again. However, Luoyang is a large city and needs to be heavily guarded. I am willing to lead a force to garrison here, and I guarantee that not even a fly will be able to get in!"

He had just achieved the greatest merit in scaling the city walls, and his momentum was at its peak.

Qin Qiong was more composed: "Jingde's bravery is commendable. However, Luoyang has just been annexed, and the people's hearts are not yet settled. The garrison must strictly enforce military discipline and not commit any offenses. This is the only long-term solution. In addition, Wang Shichong may still have scattered strongholds and remnants of his troops in various places outside the city. We need to send troops to clear them out as soon as possible to prevent them from gathering and causing trouble."

Li Shimin, having considered everyone's opinions, had already made up his mind and slowly said, "Let's follow Xuanling and Keming's plan. Wang Shichong, Wang Xuanying (Prince Zheng), and their main relatives, the false prime minister, and those above the rank of general, all shall be arrested and placed under strict guard. A date will be chosen to escort them to Chang'an and present them to Your Majesty. The rest shall be dealt with according to the divisions we just discussed. Xuanling and Fuji, you two will be in charge of the relief efforts, pacification of the people, and selection of officials in Luoyang, with Keming assisting you. Jingde and Shubao (Qin Qiong's courtesy name), the defense of Luoyang and the pacification of the surrounding areas will be entrusted to you two. You must restore order as soon as possible."

"Your humble servant obeys!" the crowd responded in unison.

After dealing with Wang Shichong, the atmosphere in the hall did not ease; instead, it became even more tense. Everyone knew that the second topic was the real key to the future survival of the Li Tang dynasty.

Li Shimin gestured to his personal guards to unfurl a massive map of the entire empire in the center of the hall. Under the candlelight, the mountains, rivers, and cities on the map were clearly visible. The red area representing the Li Tang dynasty had expanded to Guanzhong, Hedong, and the newly acquired Luoyang and most of Henan. The southern part of the map was entirely covered in a deep black, marked with the words "Heavenly Alliance." Its territory stretched from Baling and Lingnan in the west, controlling Xiangyang, Jiangling, and Jingling in the north, reaching the sea in the east, and encompassing Yingzhou in the south—encompassing the entire area south of the Yangtze River and parts of the Jianghuai region. Its sheer size was astonishing.

"Wang Shichong has been eliminated, and Dou Jiande has suffered a new defeat and retreated. On the surface, no one in the north can rival our Great Tang."

Li Shimin's voice deepened as he pointed to the dark area: "However, the true enemy may have only just appeared. Gentlemen, how much do you know about this 'Heavenly Alliance'?"

Du Ruhui's expression was grim as he spoke: "According to intelligence reports from various sources, this alliance rose to prominence during the later chaotic period at the end of the Sui Dynasty. With Xiangyang as its core, its leader is an unnamed and mysterious figure, whose background is unknown to anyone. However, its methods are extremely ruthless. In just a few years, it first integrated forces such as the Yin Kui Sect of the Southern Demonic Sect, and then swept away the southern separatists such as Lin Shihong, Shen Faxing, Du Fuwei, and Li Zitong with lightning speed, unifying the area south of the Yangtze River. Furthermore, it crossed the sea to the east, taking over the land of Japan (Yingzhou) and seizing its gold and silver mines for its own use."

Fang Xuanling added: "Their internal affairs are quite well-organized. They have implemented land redistribution and tax reduction within their jurisdiction, constructed water conservancy projects, encouraged industry and commerce, and established numerous elementary schools. Their administration is relatively clean and efficient, and the people are loyal to them. Their military system is strict, with well-trained soldiers and ample supplies. They are particularly skilled in naval warfare, and the Yangtze River has almost become their inland waterway. Furthermore, they have the 'Shadow' intelligence network built by the Yin Kui faction, which is ubiquitous. Last year, in Ancheng County of Luling Prefecture, they built a giant stone statue for their leader, recruited many refugees, and built the so-called 'Sacred Town,' which clearly shows their intention to establish a religion, honor saints, and unite the people. Their strength and potential are far beyond what Wang Shichong and Dou Jiande could achieve."

Changsun Wuji said with concern, “What is most worrying is their attitude towards our Great Tang. Three years ago, they captured and killed Zhao Deyan, the Turkic national teacher, and Chijishe, a member of the royal family, openly breaking with the Turks, seemingly sharing the same hatred as our Tang. However, they have never sent envoys to make peace with the court, nor have they recognized His Majesty's legitimacy. Their sphere of influence borders ours in the Jianghuai and Jingxiang areas. Although there is no trouble on the border for the time being, their ambition to annex the world is probably already obvious. Sooner or later, our Tang will inevitably have a war with them.”

Li Shimin listened silently, his gaze never leaving the dark figure. Before the Battle of Zhangshui, he had vaguely received scattered intelligence about mysterious experts active in the south, seemingly related to the Heavenly Alliance, but at the time he was preoccupied with dealing with Dou Jiande and had no time to investigate further. Now that a powerful enemy was right beside him, he had no choice but to think deeply.

"Gentlemen, what do you think is the best way for our Tang Dynasty to deal with this alliance?" Li Shimin asked.

Hou Junji, being a military general, spoke first: "Your Highness! Since we are bound to fight sooner or later, why not take advantage of our army's recent victory over Luoyang, when morale is high and Dou Jiande is too weak to attend to other matters, and march south in one fell swoop, first seizing his strongholds north of the Yangtze River such as Jingling and Xiangyang, to intimidate him, and even strike at his heart!"

Du Ruhui immediately shook his head: "No! Although our army has won, it is exhausted from a long battle, and the capture of Luoyang also resulted in considerable losses. We urgently need rest and replenishment. Moreover, the newly acquired territory is in dire need of reconstruction, and the people's hearts are not yet won over. On the other hand, the Heavenly Alliance is well-rested and has the natural barrier of the Yangtze River, with a strong navy. Although our Tang infantry and cavalry are powerful, naval warfare is not their forte. If we hastily march south, cross the river, and attack the stronghold, what are our chances of victory? Once we suffer a setback, Dou Jiande in Hebei and the Turks in the northern deserts will not sit idly by. At that time, we will be attacked from three sides, and we will be in grave danger!"

Fang Xuanling also said, "Kemin is absolutely right. Now is definitely not the time to fight the Heavenly Alliance. The most urgent task is to consolidate the newly acquired Luoyang and Henan, digest the spoils of war, and accumulate strength. Domestically, we must pacify the people and stabilize the territory, encourage agriculture and sericulture, and restore our vitality. Externally, firstly, we need to continue to keep Dou Jiande in check, and we can even try to lure him with benefits so that he will not be our enemy for the time being, or at least slow down his recovery. Secondly, we still need to seek peace with the Turks through bribery and buy time."

As he spoke, he pointed to the map: "As for the Heavenly Dao Alliance, at this stage, we should focus on defense and reconnaissance. Defense means strengthening the defenses of the Jingxiang and Jianghuai borders, sending capable generals to garrison them, repairing city defenses, and training the navy, at least to be able to withstand their possible northward probing. Reconnaissance means sparing no expense to increase intelligence infiltration into the Heavenly Dao Alliance. Who exactly is its leader, 'Nameless'? What are the relationships among its high-ranking members? What are their specific troop deployments, food reserves, and are there any internal conflicts... We must find out these things as soon as possible!"

Li Shimin nodded slightly. Although Hou Junji's proposal was radical, it reflected the eagerness of many generals to achieve victory in one battle. However, Du and Fang's words were truly wise and insightful. He slowly said, "Xuanling and Keming's views are in line with my own. Now is certainly not the time to fight the Heavenly Alliance. Our Tang needs time."

He stood up, walked to the map, and slid his finger from Luoyang southward: "However, the other side also needs time. The Heavenly Alliance has only recently unified the south, and Yingzhou has just been annexed. It will take time for them to integrate and digest the new territory. This is our Tang's window of opportunity." "Pass on the order."

Li Shimin's voice became decisive: "First, send additional envoys with generous gifts to Leshou to meet Dou Jiande. Their words should be humble, reiterating that Tang has no intention of advancing north and is willing to govern along the Yellow River with the Xia King, sharing peace. They can also hint that if the Xia King is willing to restrain his people from invading our territory, Tang could consider opening border markets and even providing some provisions to help stabilize Hebei." This was a risky move, but also a desperate measure; they had to temporarily appease this potential enemy from behind.

"Secondly, in the name of the imperial court, draft a mildly worded edict and send it to Xiangyang. Acknowledge the Heavenly Alliance's achievements in pacifying the south and bringing peace to the people, and invite its leader, Wuming, to send an envoy to Chang'an to pay homage and discuss strategies for achieving peace in the world. At the same time, we can try to send caravans and delegations south under the guise of trade to investigate their strengths and weaknesses." This is an overt diplomatic probe and intelligence gathering.

"Third, the defense of Luoyang will be overseen by General Qu Tutong, assisted by Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde. The task is not only to defend Hebei, but also to begin constructing a defense system facing south. An official is appointed to oversee the work, drawing on the experience of attacking and defending Luoyang, to research and stockpile large-scale siege weapons and naval warfare equipment."

"Fourth, order the Shadow Guards to concentrate their most elite forces and, at all costs, infiltrate the south, focusing on core areas such as Xiangyang, Jiangling, and Shenglin Town. The key is to investigate the true identity of 'Nameless,' the Heavenly Dao Alliance's troop deployment, supply lines, internal factions, and even its connections with the remnants of the Demonic Sect and external forces. Wuji will personally oversee this matter."

"fifth,"

Li Shimin's eyes gleamed as he surveyed his generals: "Starting tomorrow, all units must seize the opportunity to rest and recuperate, replenish their ranks, and train rigorously. In particular, we must select those familiar with water and skilled in boat handling to form and train our own Tang Dynasty navy! Future battles will inevitably take place on the Yangtze and Huai Rivers, and will inevitably cross the great rivers! In land battles, our army fears no one; in naval battles, we must not allow it to become a weakness!"

The orders were clear and unambiguous, showing that Li Shimin was not blinded by the great victory, but rather held a deep vigilance and clear understanding of the southern giants with whom he had not yet officially clashed.

"Everyone,"

Li Shimin said in a deep voice, "The victory at Luoyang is just the beginning. The real struggle for hegemony may have only just begun. I hope that everyone will work together to help our Great Tang sweep across the world and unify the land!"

"I am willing to die for Your Highness! I am willing to die for the Tang Dynasty!"

The civil and military officials in the hall responded in unison, their voices shaking the roof tiles.

...............

Late spring.

Less than two months had passed since the Tang army captured Luoyang. The Li Tang court was still basking in the immense joy of recapturing the eastern capital and the clamor of rewarding merit. While the assimilation of newly annexed territories and vigilance against the powerful southern forces had begun under Li Shimin's leadership, the massive war machine's transformation, troop deployment, and defensive line construction were far from being accomplished overnight. Especially concerning was the defense line facing the Yangtze River. The Li Tang court anticipated that even if the Heavenly Alliance intended to advance north, it would need time to consolidate its internal power and procure provisions, at least until autumn when the horses were strong and healthy. This gave the Tang army a fatal misjudgment.

However, the war gears of the Heavenly Alliance were already in full swing. While Li Shimin was discussing with his ministers in the Luoyang Palace how to defend the south, in the Zhennan Governor's Office in Xiangyang, based on the pervasive intelligence network of "Shadow" and Yi Huawei's own deductions and judgments, a detailed strategy for the Northern Expedition had already been drafted and was just waiting for the right opportunity.

April 15th, just past midnight.

In the middle reaches of the Yangtze River, between Jiangling and Jingling, the vast expanse of the river is shrouded in darkness, devoid of stars and moonlight, with only the low, mournful murmur of the ceaseless flow of the river. A thin layer of mist hangs over the river, adding to its mystique and somber atmosphere.

On the north bank, only scattered lights flickered in the darkness at several key ferry crossings and beacon towers controlled by the Li Tang dynasty. The Tang troops stationed there were mostly newly rotated troops from the Luoyang front, or temporary conscripts from nearby prefectures and counties; their vigilance and combat effectiveness were far inferior to seasoned veterans. Their orders were to strengthen defenses and guard against small-scale infiltrations, but deep down, none of them believed that the behemoth in the south would suddenly launch a full-scale attack at this moment. After all, the river was so wide; how could a large-scale crossing happen without warning?

In the mountains, forests, and even seemingly ordinary fishing village houses, miles or even tens of miles from the riverbank, figures moved like phantoms. Dressed in tight black clothes, blending perfectly into the night, they moved silently—these were the most elite assassins of the Yin Kui Sect and the vanguard of the "Shadow" system.

Zhu Yuyan personally oversaw the overall situation from the command post across the river from Jiangling. The actual elimination mission was carried out by elders such as Wen Caiting and Danmei, as well as a group of well-trained Yin Kui Sect experts skilled in assassination, poison, and illusion.

Their objective was clear: all Tang army outposts, patrols, and beacon tower garrisons on the north bank that could potentially detect large fleets in advance and issue timely warnings, as well as any Tang scouts or cavalry that might be present.

Danmei's "Mysterious Ice Group" silently approached the Tang army's watchtower on the riverbank. Two Tang sentries, spears in hand, strained to keep their eyes on the dark river, muttering complaints about their tedious task. Suddenly, they felt a chill on their necks, as if ice had grazed them. Before they could utter a sound, their consciousness blurred, and they collapsed limply. A hand reached out from the shadows and gently caught them, pulling them into the darkness. The lights on the watchtower were slowly dimmed in a way that wouldn't attract attention from afar.

Wen Caiting led her team to clear out patrols and small camps along fixed routes. They used the cover of night and the terrain to set up simple mazes or release highly elusive sleeping potions.

A five-man patrol team of Tang soldiers was walking along the riverbank when the leader suddenly noticed the fog ahead thickening and the scenery becoming distorted. Just as he was about to warn them, a sweet, cloying fragrance wafted into his nostrils. Instantly, he felt weak in the limbs, dizzy, and collapsed to the ground. Several figures emerged from the shadows, a flash of blade, and the lives were ended. The bodies were swiftly dragged into the reeds along the riverbank. The entire process was so fast that not even a muffled groan could be heard.

Behind them, on the main roads leading to the Tang army camp and the county town, key bridges and intersections were secretly monitored or tampered with by the Yin Kui faction, ensuring that even if a few escaped, their journey to deliver messages would be fraught with obstacles or result in delayed information. (End of Chapter)