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The news that Guo Wei's third son, Guo Xin, had been returned by Feng Dao and that he and his father had reunited spread like wildfire within the core circle of Guo Wei's military group.

Although Guo Wei had specifically instructed them to keep it a secret, such a momentous event, involving someone like Feng Dao, was impossible to completely conceal.

This also shows that Guo Wei's control over his military group is not very strong, and it is more of a combination and compromise of the interests of various parties.

If it were the Hongwu Emperor Zhu Yuanzhang of later generations, such a thing would never have happened.

Soon, everyone inside and outside the headquarters, even those with a little status, knew about it.

The news elicited mixed reactions.

Some of Guo Wei's old subordinates, such as some mid-level generals who had followed him since Yedu, as well as some of his distant relatives, were genuinely happy for him.

Guo Wei was a generous man who treated his subordinates well. Now that his entire family has been wiped out, everyone is heartbroken for him.

The fact that one of his own sons has survived is truly wonderful news, and many people sincerely exclaimed that God has eyes and that Su Ning is incredibly lucky.

But for many others, the thoughts are more complicated.

After hearing the confirmed news in their respective residences or military camps, the senior generals, led by Wang Jun and Wang Yin, fell into a long silence.

What they had previously only speculated about has now been confirmed.

Guo Xin really did return alive, and through Feng Dao's connection, he returned in a way that seemed like a miraculous encounter.

what does this mean?
This means that Guo Wei now has a direct heir, and the process of this heir's return is itself full of legendary color, which easily garners sympathy and attention.

Wang Jun silently drank a few cups of wine and said to his trusted advisor, "It is naturally a joyous occasion that Lord Guo has a son. However... I'm afraid we will have to be more careful about military matters in the future."

He was worried about his future power and influence.

Wang Yin thought further ahead, "That old fox Feng Dao... quietly accomplished such a great feat. The commander-in-chief was already very polite to him, and now he's even more remarkable. This young master Guo Xin, although he's said to be young, is probably no ordinary person, as he managed to escape from such a desperate situation and knew to seek out Feng Dao."

Therefore, he sensed the subtle change in the situation.

Those officials and generals who were already wavering, or who were closer to Chai Rong, felt more confused and uneasy.

They previously bet on or favored Chai Rong, this excellent adopted son. Now that the legitimate heir has suddenly returned, will their previous investments go down the drain?
What should we do next?

Within the entire group, an invisible undercurrent began to surge faster due to Suning's return.

……

Of all the people, the one with the most complex and indescribable feelings was Chai Rong.

When the news reached Chai Rong, he was supervising his soldiers' drills at the training ground.

He froze on the spot, forgetting to put down the command flag in his hand.

The trusted generals around him looked at Chai Rong with concern and whispered "Commander" a few times before Chai Rong came back to his senses.

"Understood." Chai Rong's voice was unusually calm.

He waved his hand to let the training continue, then turned and walked back to the command tent.

In the empty command tent, Chai Rong sat alone for a long time.

He was Guo Wei's adopted son and nephew. His father, Chai Shouli, was Guo Wei's brother-in-law. He was raised and carefully nurtured by Guo Wei from a young age. He was skilled in both literature and martial arts, made outstanding military achievements, and gained increasing prestige in the army and in the court.

Especially after the entire Guo family was slaughtered, he was practically Guo Wei's only heir. Everyone thought so, including himself, and he had subconsciously taken on that responsibility and expectation.

But now, Suning is back.

Guo Wei's biological son has returned.

This meant that Chai Rong's position instantly became extremely awkward.

His previous efforts, hard work, and established prestige now seem to be shrouded in uncertainty.

What path should we take in the future?
Is it to relinquish the position of heir, or...?

At this moment, Chai Rong felt a mix of emotions. He was relieved to have his uncle Guo Wei back, but also felt lost about his future, and even a sense of loss and crisis that he didn't want to delve into.

However, no matter how turbulent one's inner thoughts may be, outward manners and attitudes must be impeccable.

Soon, Guo Wei formally summoned the core civil and military officials, firstly to announce the "good news" of Suning's safe return, and secondly to allow Suning to formally meet everyone.

The meeting was arranged in a spacious hall.

Guo Wei sat upright in the main seat, trying his best to maintain the dignity of a commander, but the joy between his brows could not be completely concealed.

Civil and military officials lined up on both sides, including heavyweight figures such as Wang Jun, Wang Yin, Wei Renpu, and Li Chongjin, while Chai Rong stood at the front of the military officers.

The atmosphere was subtly quiet and expectant.

"Bring Yi-ge in," Guo Wei said.

A moment later, Su Ning, dressed in a brand-new but simple brocade robe, slowly walked into the hall under the guidance of Guo Zhong.

At this moment, Su Ning had obviously washed up carefully. Although she was still thin and her face was a little pale, she had a delicate appearance, a calm demeanor, and clear eyes with a hint of tranquility after experiencing hardships.

His appearance immediately attracted everyone's attention.

Many veterans still remember what Guo Jiasanlang looked like when he was a child. Compared to now, although he has changed a lot, his outline is still vaguely recognizable, and he is indeed Suning.

Su Ning first bowed respectfully to his father, Guo Wei, then turned around to face everyone in the hall. Following the etiquette that Feng Dao had briefly instructed him on beforehand, he bowed deeply and said, "Guo Xin greets all uncles and elder brothers."

His attitude was neither humble nor arrogant, and his manners were impeccable.

Guo Wei nodded and was about to introduce them to Su Ning.

Just then, Su Ning's gaze fell on the young general standing at the forefront of the military officers, a man of upright posture and calm demeanor.

This is the eldest brother, Chai Rong.

In Su Ning's memory, he didn't have a deep impression of his adopted brother who had been away from home with his father for many years. But when he saw him now, the original owner's remaining emotions, Su Ning's own complex understanding of the historical figure Chai Rong (Emperor Shizong of Later Zhou), and his current situation all intertwined instantly.

Instead of following the planned procedure of first paying respects to Wang Jun and others, he went straight to Chai Rong.

Everyone in the hall was stunned, their eyes following his movements.

Chai Rong hadn't expected Su Ning to be the first to approach him. He straightened up and calmly met the gaze of his suddenly appearing younger brother.

When Su Ning reached Chai Rong, he stopped and looked up at his tall, more than ten-year-older brother.

Suddenly, his eyes reddened, and without warning, he opened his arms and hugged Chai Rong tightly!

"Big brother!" Su Ning's cries, filled with grievance and sorrow, shocked everyone.

Chai Rong's body stiffened abruptly, completely unprepared for this opening.

He instinctively tried to push him away, but when he felt the trembling of the boy's thin body in his arms and heard the heartfelt "Big Brother," his heart, which had hardened and become guarded due to the sudden change in the situation, felt as if it had been violently struck by something.

“Third brother…” Chai Rong’s voice was a little hoarse. He hesitated for a moment, but finally gently placed his arm on Su Ning’s back. The movement was a little awkward, but it was already a gesture of acceptance.

Su Ning hugged Chai Rong tightly, as if he had found the most reliable support, burying his face in the edge of his brother's sturdy armor.

Tears streamed down her face, and she sobbed, “Big brother… I’m useless… I’m really useless… Mother hid me… and told me to live no matter what… but I can’t do anything… I can’t save Mother… I can’t save Second Brother (referring to Guo Tong)… I can’t save my sisters… and I can’t save my sister-in-law and nephews, I can only hide… like a mouse…”

Suning's tearful account was fragmented, filled with helplessness, self-blame, and deep sorrow.

These words were partly a genuine outpouring of emotion and partly a deliberate expression of feeling.

Today, he wants everyone, especially Chai Rong, to see his vulnerability and pain, rather than a "competitor" with the halo of being the "legitimate son" and potentially a threat to Chai Rong.

“I have nightmares every day… I dream about my mother… I dream about my house being covered in blood… I’m so scared… Big brother… I’m so scared…” Su Ning cried so hard she could barely breathe, clutching Chai Rong’s armor tightly.

As Chai Rong listened to the boy in his arms sobbing uncontrollably and felt his body trembling, the gentle face of his aunt involuntarily appeared in his mind. He thought of Guo Tong's former appearance, as well as his wife Liu and his children... At this moment, all the calculations, considerations, and anxieties in his heart seemed to be diluted by the most simple family affection and the pain.

Ultimately, he was just a fourteen-year-old child who had just survived the massacre of his entire family.

Su Ning is his uncle's biological son and also his nominal younger brother.

Chai Rong's nose also felt a little sore. He closed his eyes tightly, and when he opened them again, his eyes were much gentler.

He gently patted Su Ning's back to comfort him, "Third brother, don't say anymore... It's not your fault. It's a great blessing that you're alive. If your aunt is watching from heaven, she will be relieved to see you safe and sound. With your elder brother and father here, no one can hurt you anymore."

These words were both to comfort Su Ning and to express his stance to everyone in the hall, especially Guo Wei. The hall fell silent.

Only Su Ning's suppressed sobs and Chai Rong's low, comforting voice could be heard.

Many of the civil and military officials, who originally had their own differing thoughts, were moved by this scene.

Those generals, especially those with families and children, could better understand the despair and pain in Su Ning's words.

When he looked at Su Ning again, his gaze held less scrutiny and calculation, and more sympathy and pity.

Many people secretly nodded in approval of Chai Rong's elder brotherly demeanor and sense of responsibility at this moment.

Guo Wei sat in the main seat, looking at his two sons embracing each other. One was his biological son whom he had lost and then found, and he was filled with grief and vulnerability. The other was his adopted son whom he had carefully raised, and he was calm and responsible.

His eyes also welled up with tears, his heart filled with both immense sorrow for his deceased wife and young son, and relief at Chai Rong's reaction at this moment.

This scene of brothers reuniting has temporarily come to an end, with Su Ning's heartfelt tears and Chai Rong's complex acceptance.

It may not be able to completely eliminate potential future barriers and competition, but at least it has laid the foundation for a tone of "brotherly love and respect," "survival of the fittest," and "prioritizing family ties" in front of everyone.

In chaotic times, blood ties and affections, power and humanity are often intertwined and difficult to separate.

Suning's return is like a pebble thrown into a calm lake; the ripples it creates are only just beginning to spread.

……

After meeting with Chai Rong and other civil and military officials, Su Ning was officially brought back to live with Guo Wei.

Guo Wei allocated him a quiet and secluded courtyard within the camp, equipped with reliable servants and guards, ensuring his safety.

In the days that followed, Suning behaved very well.

He was well aware of his current situation: although he was Guo Wei's lost and found son, his foundation was too shallow, he was too young, he had no influence over his father's huge military and political group, and he did not have his own faction.

My father is currently busy stabilizing Kaifeng, taking over the legacy of the Later Han Dynasty, dealing with various forces, and may even be planning to take the next step by donning the imperial robe...

These are matters of national importance that I should not get involved in right now. Forcing myself into them might only annoy people or even arouse suspicion.

Therefore, it is necessary to find one's own place and do things that are appropriate for one's age and identity, so as not to cause trouble for one's father and to pave the way for one's future.

After much deliberation, Suning decided to start with "studying abroad" and "establishing diplomatic relations".

That day, Su Ning took the initiative to approach Guo Wei and shared his ideas.

“Father, I have been fortunate enough to survive this time, and I know how difficult it is in chaotic times, and how life is as worthless as grass. Now, thanks to your protection, I am safe and sound. But I do not want to spend my days idly and waste my time.” Su Ning’s tone was sincere. “I want to study and understand principles, to learn how to govern the world and help the people, so that I may be able to share your burdens in the future, even if it is just a small matter. In addition, I feel lonely being alone, and I would like to find a few children of similar age and good character to be my study companions, so that we can study together and look after each other.”

Looking into his son's clear and earnest eyes, Guo Wei felt both gratified and a little sad.

Thankfully, my son is sensible and knows how to improve himself. He has not become indulgent or depressed because he survived the ordeal.

What's heartbreaking is that after experiencing such a tragedy, my son is now so calm and collected; it's unlikely he'll ever again possess the innocence of an ordinary teenager.

“Reading is a good thing.” Guo Wei nodded. He came from a military background, but he did not disregard education. “Whom do you want to study under? I will find one for you.”

Su Ning had already made his plans. After a moment's thought, he said, "I am able to meet my father this time entirely thanks to the help of Minister Feng. Minister Feng has served several dynasties, is learned and insightful, and is also a prudent and fair person. I dare to ask if it is appropriate for me to become Minister Feng's student and learn from him the classics and the way of life. I wonder... if this is suitable?"

To become Feng Dao's disciple?
Upon hearing this, Guo Wei's eyes flashed with a sharp light as he carefully examined the pieces.

This choice once again demonstrates the son's meticulousness.

There are several advantages to becoming Feng Dao's disciple: First, Feng Dao had introduced him to Feng Dao, so it was reasonable for him to become Feng Dao's disciple, which could further solidify their relationship.

Secondly, Feng Dao was a leader among civil officials, renowned for his scholarship and reputation. Becoming his student would enhance one's reputation and "literary" qualities, balancing one's status as the descendant of a military general.

Third, and most importantly, Feng Dao held a transcendent position, belonging to no faction. Becoming his disciple would prevent one from being drawn into factional struggles in the military or the imperial court too early, making it relatively safe.

Guo Wei himself did not want his only son to be exposed to the dangers of war again. It would be best if he could follow the path of civil administration and live a peaceful and stable life.

Feng Dao is indeed an excellent candidate for a teacher.

"Good!" Guo Wei clapped his hands and said, "Prime Minister Feng is a man of profound learning, and it is my wish that you become his disciple. I will go and speak with Prime Minister Feng about this matter myself."

……

The following day, Guo Wei, accompanied by Su Ning, prepared generous gifts and personally visited Feng Dao.

Feng Dao already had some guesses about the sudden visit of Guo Wei and his son.

But when Guo Wei got straight to the point and asked if his son could become his apprentice, Feng Dao was clearly surprised.

“Master Guo… this…” Feng Dao stroked his beard and pondered, “The Third Young Master is exceptionally intelligent and has become more resolute through hardship. He is truly a man of great talent and character. However, I am not very learned and am already quite old. I am afraid that I may hinder the Third Young Master’s studies.”

"Prime Minister Feng is too modest," Guo Wei said solemnly. "It is already a great fortune that my son has returned alive. Now he only wishes to study and understand principles, and does not seek fame or fortune. Looking at the court and the country, in terms of scholarship and character, only Prime Minister Feng can teach him and put my mind at ease. I hope that Prime Minister Feng will consider my sincerity and my son's trust in you and grant my request."

He then gestured for Su Ning to step forward and bow.

Su Ning immediately stepped forward and bowed deeply to Feng Dao, saying, "I, Guo Xin, have long admired your scholarship and character, sir. I am deeply grateful for your help last time. Now I wish to become your disciple, to study diligently, and to uphold the proper etiquette of a student. I hope you will not abandon my dullness and will accept me and teach me."

Having said all that, Feng Dao knew he couldn't refuse, and besides, it wasn't necessarily a bad thing for him.

Taking Guo Wei's only son as a disciple is an important favor and connection, regardless of what the future holds.

So Feng Dao stopped being coy and reached out to help Su Ning up. "Please rise, Third Young Master. Since Lord Guo trusts you so much and you have such a thirst for knowledge, I will accept your offer. However, my knowledge is shallow, and I hope you will forgive any shortcomings."

The matter of the apprenticeship was thus settled, and the atmosphere became even more harmonious.

After being seated and served tea, Guo Wei seemed to be in the middle of a lively conversation, or rather, he did have a long-standing question that he wanted to ask this "tumbler" for advice.

Guo Wei dismissed his attendants, leaving Su Ning to listen. Then, with a solemn expression, he asked Feng Dao, "Prime Minister Feng, there is something I have been pondering for a long time, but I still cannot figure it out. Today, I would like to ask Prime Minister Feng for his advice."

"Please speak, Master Guo."

"The world today has been fragmented for decades since the end of the Tang Dynasty. Regional warlords hold sway, emperors rise and fall in rapid succession, war rages on, and the people are displaced. I, Guo, though unworthy, have been fortunate enough to occupy Bianliang thanks to the support of my soldiers. Yet, whenever I ponder how to end this chaos, restore peace to the land, and allow the people to live in tranquility, I am deeply perplexed." Guo Wei frowned. "Force may pacify a region, may intimidate for a time, but how can it ensure lasting stability? Prime Minister Feng has served several dynasties and is well-versed in history; what insightful opinions do you have?"

This is a very profound question, concerning the very foundation of a nation and the principles of governance.

Upon hearing this, Feng Dao put down his teacup, and his expression became solemn.

He pondered for a long time before slowly speaking, “Master Guo’s question is indeed a fundamental one. In my humble opinion, long-term stability cannot be achieved solely through military force. Since the end of the Tang Dynasty, the rites and music have collapsed, the social order has been disrupted, and rulers have ceased to be rulers, ministers have ceased to be ministers, fathers have ceased to be fathers, and sons have ceased to be sons. This is the source of great chaos.”

He paused, and seeing that Guo Wei was listening attentively, continued, "In my opinion, the most urgent task is to respect Confucianism."

"Respect Confucianism?" Guo Wei repeated.

“Exactly.” Feng Dao nodded. “The core of Confucianism lies in propriety and order. What is propriety? It is the propriety between ruler and subject, father and son, husband and wife, elder and younger, and friends. When propriety is established, there is order between superiors and inferiors, distinction between the noble and the lowly, and everyone is content with their place, and disputes will naturally disappear. What is order? When the court has laws and regulations, officials have duties, and rewards and punishments are based on rules, the world will operate on its own track, rather than based on personal likes or dislikes or momentary force.”

"Specifically," Feng Dao explained, "if Lord Guo wishes to bring peace to the world, the first priority is to rebuild etiquette and order. In court, the roles of ruler and subject must be defined, and the laws and regulations must be clarified so that all officials know their proper conduct. In the countryside, filial piety, brotherly love, loyalty, and trustworthiness must be promoted, and the fundamental principles of human relations must be emphasized so that the people know what to follow. Schools should be established to educate scholars with Confucian classics and cultivate talents for governing the country. The imperial examinations should be emphasized to select officials based on their literary talent and moral character, rather than solely on military merit and family background. In this way, from top to bottom, everything will be well-organized and orderly, thus laying the foundation for long-term stability."

“However,” Guo Wei questioned, “the four directions are not yet at peace, and powerful vassals surround us. If we only focus on culture, education, rites, and music, we may neglect military preparedness and suffer the consequences.”

Feng Dao smiled slightly, “Master Guo’s concerns are very valid! Respecting Confucianism and valuing etiquette does not mean abandoning martial arts. Just like a person’s two hands, one for literature and the other for martial arts, they complement each other. Martial arts can quell chaos, while civil administration can maintain order. Governing a country requires both civil and military means, with a proper balance. We can use military force to stabilize the world and civil administration to bring peace to the world. Once the world is initially settled, we should gradually suppress military force and promote civil administration, guide people towards goodness, and restore etiquette and music. This is the right path to long-term stability and peace.”

After listening, Guo Wei pondered for a long time.

Feng Dao's words opened up a new perspective for him.

Guo Wei, having come from a military background, knew the importance of force, but he also witnessed firsthand the reality that force alone could not bring true stability.

Perhaps it's time to really think about how to govern through civil means.

Suning, who was standing to the side, was also listening intently.

Feng Dao's views have profound practical significance in this chaotic era.

Rebuilding order and ethics is indeed one of the keys to ending chaos and stabilizing society.

This aligns with some of the policy directions of Guo Wei and his son Chai Rong that he knew in history.

During this visit, Guo Wei successfully became an apprentice and gained valuable insights into governance principles, making it a very fruitful experience.

For Su Ning, becoming Feng Dao's apprentice not only provided him with a safe "protective umbrella" and a source of knowledge, but also allowed him to observe and participate more closely in the political thinking of the highest levels of the era, laying a more solid foundation for his future survival and development in the world.

...(End of this chapter)