I served as an admonisher in the Song Dynasty

Chapter 468 The nightmare of the Xixia people has come! The Di Su duo, the westward expedition begins

Sitianjian, meeting hall.

More than 20 officials who were monitoring astronomical phenomena stared in amazement at the patterns of solar and lunar eclipses that Su Liang had drawn on paper on the wooden board in front of them. They were all stunned.

These officials were not completely ignorant of the sun and the moon.

Based on the armillary sphere, they can calculate the exact time when a solar or lunar eclipse will occur.

They have long known that the moon has no light. It is when the sun shines on it that moonlight is created, thus becoming a bright moon.

They also agreed with Zhang Heng's ideas such as "the spherical sky is like an egg, the celestial body is round like a bullet, the earth is like the yolk of a chicken, isolated in the middle, the sky is big and the earth is small."

But they didn't know that the world was actually spinning all the time.

I didn’t know that the sun is far bigger than the heaven and earth.

I don’t know if there is a magical gravitational force that controls everything.

What we don’t know is that the world we live in is not much different in size from many of the stars in the sky.

……

at first.

The officials all felt that Su Liang was making up stories, and the more he made them, the more bizarre they became.

But after Su Liang explained in detail the causes of bizarre astronomical phenomena such as solar eclipses, lunar eclipses, changes in stars, and falling meteorites.

Some of them believed it.

It was very difficult to explain the changes in celestial phenomena in a self-consistent way, and Su Liang suddenly opened a new door for them.

Moreover, Su Liang emphasized that solar and lunar eclipses were natural astronomical phenomena and had nothing to do with court affairs.

Wei Qingfeng, the chief minister of the Imperial Observatory, looked at Su Liang and asked, "May I ask, Chief Minister Su, where did this theory come from? Is there any ancient book that records it?"

"Three years ago, when I was on tour, I met an old wandering Taoist in Yangzhou. He was already 123 years old. These are exactly what he said. I thought they made a lot of sense, so I wrote them down."

"In addition to informing you, I also informed Shen Kuo of the Baijia Academy. His research is more in-depth. If you have time, you can discuss it with him."

The reason why Su Liang made up such a reason was,
On the one hand, it is to find a source for one's own statement.

On the other hand, the officials of the Imperial Observatory tended to believe the words of the old Taoist priest who practiced Taoism.

Su Liang believed that his understanding of celestial phenomena was very superficial, and it might be enough to answer the questions and resolve the confusions of this group of people at the moment, but if he delved deeper, he might show his weakness.

Wei Qingfeng hesitated for a moment and said, "Central Minister Su, we know what you mean, but this is just your opinion. We cannot report this to the government without proof. The solar eclipse is a natural phenomenon, not a warning from heaven."

Su Liang smiled slightly.

At present, there is still a long way to go before science can replace theology.

Moreover, in order to stabilize the country and reassure the people, it is sometimes necessary to make use of astronomical phenomena.

Su Liang asked back, "Then you calculated that it is not appropriate to start a war after a solar eclipse. Where did the celestial phenomena tell you that?"

"We are just following the customary practice." Wei Qingfeng replied.

"It's just a custom, right? In fact, you should know that since ancient times, the theory that celestial phenomena affect government has always been difficult to establish. It's just a theory of the interaction between heaven and man."

"I am not against changing the reign title, nor am I against the government cultivating virtue and warding off disasters, but your suggestion that 'it is not appropriate to start a war' is totally groundless, and I suggest deleting it."

"People should respect heaven, but not be afraid of it. The expedition to the west is part of the reform of the whole Song Dynasty. I don't want to miss this opportunity because of a solar eclipse!"

Su Liang spoke directly and clearly.

Wei Qingfeng and others suddenly became confused.

The theory of correspondence between heaven and man is nothing more than a kind of theology.

They acted entirely according to the astronomical calendar book. They had long suspected these omens, but they could not find the answers, so they had no choice but to trust their ancestors.

At this time.

An official in his thirties with a handsome appearance came out.

He said to Wei Qingfeng, "Wei Jiancheng, I think what Su Zhongcheng said can be considered. We did not detect that the solar eclipse is a bad omen, so the idea that we should not start a war is indeed not true."

Su Liang couldn't help but look at the official.

He had never seen an official in the Imperial Astronomical Observatory who could say that "a solar eclipse is not a bad omen."

"Zi Rong, do you think what Su Zhongcheng just said is more correct than what we learned in the book?"

The official nodded and said, "That's the case at the moment. The celestial phenomena that we couldn't understand and couldn't explain are all made sense after Su Zhongcheng's theory! I suggest that we submit a new memorial to interpret the celestial phenomena and delete the statement that 'it's not appropriate to start a war'."

"I believe what Zirong said!" Wei Qingfeng said.

The other officials nodded in approval.

Su Liang was immediately overjoyed.

He didn't expect that an official from the Imperial Observatory would speak for him, and he didn't expect that as soon as he opened his mouth, the other officials would believe him.

"Who is this...?" Su Liang asked.

The official immediately saluted and said, "Central Minister Su, we are classmates in the imperial examination. My name is Su Song, courtesy name Zirong, and I am currently serving as the Director of Astronomy."

Wei Qingfeng on the side added: "Minister Su, Zirong is a versatile person. He was originally an official in the imperial library. He came to the Imperial Astronomical Bureau because he likes astronomy and calendar. His ability to observe the sky is far superior to that of a lowly official."

Su Liang smiled and nodded, saying: "Next, I'll trouble you all to submit a new memorial!"

All the officials of the Imperial Observatory bowed in unison.

……

The next day.

The Imperial Astronomical Observatory cited classics and deleted the statement "it is not appropriate to start a war", but still pleaded to change the year name and asked the government to cultivate virtue and avert disasters.

Afterwards, Zhao Zhen discussed it with the ministers of the two governments.

It was decided that from that day on, he would change into fine clothes, cut back on his regular meals, and avoid the main hall.

From the beginning of April, the reign title was changed to Zhihe. The so-called Zhihe means to summon the energy of peace and harmony, which is a good omen.

Di Qing and Su Liang's journey continued as usual.

The two will head to the northwest on the ninth day of March. As to whether there will be a major war with Western Xia, it depends on the actual situation after they arrive in the northwest.

Su Liang couldn't make it to Su Zimu's childhood engagement banquet.

However, with Tang Ze and Tang Wanmei present, and Ouyang Xiu also participating, things can still proceed normally.

In addition, Su Liang also planned to bring some cotton seeds for weaving cloth to the northwest.

The northwest has more sandy soil and more sunlight, making it most suitable for growing cotton, but it lacks cotton weaving technology.

If that area is reclaimed, relying on planting and weaving, it can solve the livelihood problems of many people.

……

March 8th, the day before Di Qing and Su Liang were set to leave.

In the morning, the sun is shining brightly.

Wang Yaochen, the Third Secretary, sat at the table and let out a long sigh.

If the Song Dynasty really goes to war with Western Xia this year, the imperial guards stationed in the northwest will be enough.

As for food, fodder, weapons and firearms, Wang Yaochen had already arranged them.

According to the current financial resources of the national treasury.

As long as the Song Dynasty does not go to war with Liao and Western Xia at the same time, the reserves will be sufficient, and even if a war of attrition is fought, it can be afforded.

at this time.

An official came over quickly and said, "Prime Minister Ji, the people have surrounded our gate. They say they want to donate money for the Northwest soldiers!"

"It must be those warmongers again. Tell them that the court is not short of money and dismiss them all!" said Wang Yaochen.

Because of the Song-Xia war during the Qingli period and the many lootings by the Western Xia, the people of the Song Dynasty had always disliked the Western Xia. Among them was a group of relatively wealthy merchants.

He had been bullied by the Xixia people when doing business, and hated them with a vengeance.

They went to the Three Departments many times and said that if the court had plans to attack Western Xia, they would be willing to donate money and materials.

Wang Yaochen persuaded them to go back.

"This time... this time is different. There are too many people. Some have climbed onto the wall. Some are even carrying food and cloth... blocking the door. We really can't persuade them to leave!"

Wang Yaochen didn't know whether to laugh or cry, and said, "Let's go and take a look!"

……

Privy Council, outside the main gate.

The people kept piling up.

Some were carrying pieces of cloth, some were pulling a cart of grain, some were waving money notes, and some old men and women were holding baskets of eggs...

As soon as Wang Yaochen walked out of the door, someone shouted, "Prime Minister Ji, please accept our property. Although Lord Fan is gone, the Xixia people still have no right to bully us. We have money and food, and we can beat them to death!"

"Prime Minister Ji, we don't want peace talks, we don't want Xixia to apologize, we want to beat them up. Lord Fan just passed away and they dared to plunder our town. If we don't beat them hard, they will provoke us again!"

"The Xixia people are just a bunch of ungrateful wolves. If we want peace in the northwest, we must beat them so hard that they can't stand up!"

……

then.

The Song Dynasty lost all three battles: the Battle of Sanchuankou, the Battle of Haoshuichuan, and the Battle of Dingchuanzhai.

Many people were traumatized.

Afterwards, although the annual tribute was abolished and some face was saved thanks to Su Liang's toughness, the Song Dynasty had not yet won the major battle.

Therefore, the people were extremely eager that Di Qing and Su Liang would go to the northwest to attend the funeral and give Xixia a good beating.

The feelings of the people are always simple and warm.

They remember kindness and also remember grudges.

They would cry bitterly for Fan Zhongyan's death, and they would hate the Western Xia for their looting.

"Quiet! Everyone, be quiet! Listen to me, listen to me!" Wang Yaochen said loudly.

After a while, the surroundings became quiet.

Wang Yaochen took two steps forward and said seriously, "Seeing everyone donating money and materials for the Northwest, I feel very happy!"

"This shows that everyone has money, and everyone's life has improved. This is a blessing for the court and the world. Everyone's life will get better and better! What I want to tell you is that the court is not poor, and the taxes you pay have already met the needs of the military. If a major war really breaks out, the three departments are capable of ensuring that our army can operate normally, and we will never let a soldier starve or freeze!"

"Everyone, take your things back. If the court needs anything, we will definitely ask you for help!"

At this time.

A middle-aged civilian said, "Prime Minister Ji, this... this is a small token of our appreciation. Consider it as a token of our appreciation to Lord Fan and the soldiers of the Northwest Imperial Army. Is that ok?"

"If you don't accept it, we will be unable to sleep or eat. We also want to contribute to the court. We also want to let the soldiers and civilians in the northwest know that they have strong backing. Even if Mr. Fan passes away, no one can bully them!"

"Yes, take it!"

"Take it. If you don't, we won't be able to sleep!"

"Prime Minister Ji, this little money will not affect our normal life, so just accept it. We also want to be proud of it!" A big businessman said while shaking a thick stack of money in his hand, his eyes particularly sincere.

……

Wang Yaochen thought for a moment, then pressed his hands down. When there was no sound around, he said loudly, "Okay, the three divisions will accept the gifts from everyone today. Later, all the property will be turned into food and fodder and transported to the border. We will also tell our men in the northwest that this is a gift from the people! But after today, no one can make an exception, and the three divisions will not accept it anymore!"

Suddenly.

There was a huge cheer from the crowd.

Wang Yaochen waved to the officials behind him, indicating that they should register the list.

If the three officials do not accept these properties today, these people will probably throw things over the wall again.

If the "Qiang bandits" from Western Xia who looted Xihe Town saw this scene, they would definitely regret the looting.

In their eyes, the Song Dynasty in the past was a fat sheep, but now it is an adult tiger that is unstoppable.

……

On the ninth day of the third lunar month, at four o'clock in the morning, in the bedroom of Su's residence.

While changing clothes for Su Liang, Tang Wanmei said, "When you go to the northwest, you must take care of your health. Be careful when drinking water, drink less alcohol, and take more clothes. Don't think you are still young..."

Soon, everyone was dressed, but Tang Wanmei was still giving instructions.

Su Liang suddenly put his arms around Tang Wanmei's neck and looked straight at her.

With tears in her eyes, Tang Wan stood on tiptoes and suddenly kissed Su Liang.

The two kissed madly until they were almost out of breath and then let go of each other.

Su Liang wiped the tears from Tang Wan's eyes and said, "Be happy. If you cry, the two children outside will cry with you. I will be back at the end of the year."

"Yeah." Tang Wanmei nodded.

Then, Su Liang and Tang Wanmei walked out of the bedroom.

Tang Ze, Su Zimu and Su Qinyi were all in the living room.

Su Qinyi's little face was all red from crying, and she started crying again when she saw Su Liang, while Su Zimu clenched his fists with a determined look on his face.

Su Liang wiped away Su Qinyi's tears, kissed her forehead, rubbed Su Zimu's head, and said, "Daddy will be back at the end of the year, and he will bring you gifts then."

"Mu'er, after Daddy leaves, you are the man of the family. Take good care of Grandfather, Mom, and Sister. Do you understand?"

Su Zimu nodded heavily.

Then, Su Liang looked at Tang Ze and said, "Dad, take care of yourself."

"You have to take care of yourself. We will wait for you to come back." Tang Ze said.

Afterwards, Su Liang strode out of the house and got on the carriage heading to Xuande Gate.

……

The sky is slightly bright.

In front of the Xuande Gate, Zhao Zhen's dragon chariot was placed in the front, and hundreds of officials followed closely behind, all seeing Di Qing and Su Liang off.

The two headed northwest.

On the surface, it was to hold a funeral for Fan Zhongyan, but in fact it was to implement the strategy of expanding the border in Xihe, and it might even directly destroy Western Xia.

At this moment, everyone has said the words of farewell.

Soon, the departure ceremony was over. Just as Di Qing and Su Liang were preparing to leave, Zhao Zhen said, "Wait, I have something else to say!"

Immediately, Zhao Zhen called Di Qing and Su Liang aside, and then waved his hand to ensure that there was no one else within five meters.

It is obvious that the government has important matters to tell you.

Suddenly, three heads came together.

Zhao Zhen lowered his voice and said, "Mr. Di, Mr. Su, if we have to launch a full-scale war with Xixia after the border expansion of Xihe is completed, you should report to me as soon as possible. My armor is almost rusty and it's time to wear some more!"

Suddenly, Di Qing and Su Liang both laughed.

Zhao Zhen always wanted to lead the army in person, but the current conditions did not allow it. Officials would only agree when it was absolutely necessary for him to come forward to boost morale, otherwise it would be difficult for him to leave Bianliang City.

He was selecting these two people, hoping that when Di Qing and Su Liang reported the military intelligence, they would take the initiative to ask him to lead the army in person.

"I obey!" The two of them handed over their hands at the same time.

(End of this chapter)