My father is Chongzhen? Then I have no choice but to rebel.

Zhu Cilang saw his father's concerns and continued:
"However, Father, we have an even more valuable asset than silver. You see, those accompanying you back to the capital this time are mostly mid- to low-ranking officers and soldiers. This nine million taels of silver and ten million taels of Ming Dynasty banknotes are 'cash' prepared specifically for them, enough to allow them to return home in glory and bring honor to their families."

For the soldiers who would remain in Liaodong and Korea, silver was the least important thing. The Emperor had already promised to bestow upon them vast fertile lands, along with the Korean and Jurchen populations who depended on them.

For those who aspire to settle in the frontier and establish their family fortune, land and people are the true, generational wealth.

These words were like a gentle breeze, dispelling the gloom in Chongzhen's heart. He suddenly felt enlightened and patted Zhu Cilang on the shoulder:

"Good! Well said! Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. Use land to appease those who remain, and use cash to incentivize those who return home. As for those high-ranking generals... their glory should not be measured solely by gold and silver. I will reward them handsomely upon their return to the capital!"

The father and son smiled at each other, and a reward plan that was low-cost, high-return, and could maximize morale was finalized.

That night, at the third quarter of the hour of Xu (7:45 PM), in a side hall of the imperial palace.

The day's hustle and bustle finally subsided.

Zhu Cilang had just finished bathing and changed into a light casual outfit. He was about to go to bed when a series of hurried but light footsteps suddenly came from outside the palace.

A eunuch appeared at the door, holding his breath as he reported:
"Your Highness, His Majesty has decreed that you proceed to the side hall of the Hall of Diligent Governance immediately for a meeting."

Zhu Cilang's heart stirred; he knew that tonight's "discussion" was no ordinary military matter.

He quickly straightened his clothes and followed the eunuch through the silent corridor.

In the darkness of the palace, the glow of lanterns swayed in the wind, casting long and short shadows of the two figures, adding to the solemn atmosphere.

Pushing open the door to the side hall, a rich aroma of sandalwood wafted out, dispelling the sweltering heat of the summer night.

There weren't many candles lit inside the hall; instead, two tall glass lamps were placed on each side of the huge rosewood table, casting a soft and focused light.

Emperor Chongzhen stood before the table, his hands behind his back, his shadow stretched large and solemn by the lamplight.

Zhu Cilang's gaze was instantly drawn to the table.

It was a long table made of rosewood, large enough to seat ten people. The tabletop was smooth as a mirror, and in the very center was a huge banner written on fine Xuan paper.

The banner, written in a powerful and vigorous official script, clearly displays five striking characters from top to bottom: Duke, Marquis, Earl, Viscount, Baron.

On the right side of the banner, dozens of exquisite peach wood plaques, each about the size of a palm, were neatly stacked.

Each plaque bears the name of a general written in tiny, neat characters.

These wooden plaques are now waiting to be picked up, moved, and categorized; their fate will determine the top of the power pyramid of the future Ming Empire.

Upon seeing this, Zhu Cilang instantly understood his father's profound meaning.

This is a game of chess that will determine the future of the empire for decades, or even centuries.

This is not merely an award, but a reshuffling and rebalancing of political power.

"You've arrived."

Hearing footsteps, Chongzhen turned around, his face showing a hint of fatigue, but more so a focused concentration as he faced a crucial decision.

"I am troubled by these names. This matter requires careful consideration from you and me, father and son. This time, the destruction of the Jurchens and the restoration of Korea are unparalleled achievements. If the rewards are too light, it will discourage the heroes of the world; if they are too heavy, it will abuse the laws of our ancestors and set a precedent for redundant officials and titles."

What do you think we should do first?

Zhu Cilang walked to the table, and without any further pleasantries, his sharp gaze swept over the quietly lying wooden plaques, directly cutting to the core issue:
“Father, the sequence of events is clear. We should first consider the ministers who established the dynasty, and then discuss the others. The first one is none other than Zu Dashou.”

He reached out and accurately pulled out the plaque with the three characters "Zu Dashou" from the pile of wooden plaques.

"The General Commander of Pingliao, the commander-in-chief of the three armies. Without him in charge of the central army and coordinating the overall situation, even a million-strong army would be nothing but a disorganized mess. He is the 'spearhead' of this battle, the first person to break through the Jurchen defenses. He is worthy of the title of Duke, without a doubt."

Zhu Cilang's words were resolute and without the slightest hesitation.

Emperor Chongzhen nodded, a look of approval on his face.

He reached out and placed the wooden plaque inscribed with "Zu Dashou" steadily and with a touch of ceremony at the head of the "Duke" column.

Zhu Cilang's gaze then fell on another wooden plaque—"Zheng Zhilong".

"Next up is Zheng Zhilong."

Zhu Cilang's tone remained calm, as if he were stating a given fact.

"Father, you should know very well that if his navy had not blockaded the Bohai and Yellow Seas, cut off the last sea escape route of the Jurchens, and annihilated their remaining navy in the Tsushima Strait, this battle might not have been fought so well."

His contribution was strategic; it was the cornerstone of victory. Moreover…

Zhu Cilang paused slightly, his tone revealing a subtle hint of intimacy.

"He has a marriage alliance with the royal family, so it is only right and proper for him to be granted the title of Duke, both in public and private terms."

Emperor Chongzhen looked at the wooden plaque and a smile appeared on his lips.

He was certainly aware of Zheng Zhilong's achievements and was even more pleased to facilitate the political marriage that this match brought.

With a wave of his hand, he also placed the wooden plaque bearing the name "Zheng Zhilong" alongside the one bearing the name "Duke".

Thus, the pinnacle of the Ming Dynasty's military ranks had two truly deserving giants.

However, when Zhu Cilang reached for the next wooden plaque—"Sun Chuanting"—Chongzhen's movements froze.

This veteran was originally a civil official who served as the governor of Shaanxi, but was later forced to switch to a military post.

He trained troops in Shaanxi and fought a major battle against Li Zicheng, achieving remarkable feats. But now, a thorny problem lay before him:
If he were to be granted the title of Marquis, according to the ancestral system of the Ming Dynasty, civil officials who were granted military titles were usually not allowed to enter the cabinet, in order to prevent military men from interfering in politics.

Sun Chuanting was not only a general but also a prime minister; he was a rare all-rounder.

"Chuan Ting..."

Emperor Chongzhen muttered to himself, his finger hovering above the "Marquis" column, hesitant to drop it.

Zhu Cilang noticed his father's hesitation and explained softly:
“Father, I once asked him privately. His ambition is not to be ennobled or appointed as a general, but to govern the world. He once frankly said that if he could make meritorious contributions, he would prefer to enter the cabinet, take charge of the central government, share the burden for Father, and plan for the long term of the Ming Dynasty.”

These words were like a key, instantly unlocking the lock in Chongzhen's heart.

The hesitation in his eyes vanished, replaced by a clear understanding and appreciation of human nature.

He gently retrieved the wooden plaque bearing the name "Sun Chuanting" from the "Marquis" list, placed it back in its original position, and smiled:
"What a fine Sun Chuanting! What a magnanimous spirit of 'If not a good prime minister, then a good doctor'! Cilang, you see, the pursuits of this world are all different. Some people yearn to become dukes and marquises with glorious military achievements, admired by thousands; others only wish to become cabinet ministers second only to the emperor, holding power and realizing their ambitions."

With his military achievements, Chuan Ting, even if he didn't become the Grand Secretary, would still carry much more weight in the court than the Grand Secretary himself. Bringing him into the cabinet is using his strengths and fulfilling his needs. This is far more useful than the empty title of a marquis!

The father and son exchanged a smile; a potential personnel problem had been easily solved. The process of bestowing rewards continued.

When the wooden sign was moved to the place of "Qin Liangyu", the air seemed to freeze for a moment.

This renowned female general did not participate in this expedition; she remained in the capital to oversee the rear.

Her current title is "Loyal Marquis".

Emperor Chongzhen's gaze lingered on that name for a long time.

He recalled the crisis in the capital in the second year of the Chongzhen Emperor's reign, and the counterattack in the third year of Chongzhen's reign, when Qin Liangyu's White Spear Army twice rushed to the aid of the capital, saving the nation from peril.

It is rare throughout history for a woman to possess such loyalty and courage.

"General Qin..."

Emperor Chongzhen's voice trembled slightly, a tremor that was a testament to his heartfelt gratitude and remorse towards his loyal ministers and generals.

He looked at Zhu Cilang as if seeking support, or perhaps making a decision for himself.

"Although she did not participate in the war, she safeguarded the foundation of the Ming Dynasty. Her two acts of saving the emperor are of paramount importance. I... would like to promote her to the rank of duke."

This was a bold, almost unconventional decision.

The conferment of a dukedom upon a woman was unprecedented in the three-hundred-year history of the Ming Dynasty.

Zhu Cilang did not hesitate at all, immediately cupped his hands, and spoke in a firm and powerful tone:
“Father! General Qin has done his utmost for the country, and this is the way of a true hero! This is not for personal gain, but for the sake of justice for all ages! With this precedent, our Great Ming Dynasty can be filled with righteousness and loyalty forever!”

These words strengthened Chongzhen's resolve.

Without further hesitation, he personally raised the wooden plaque inscribed with "Qin Liangyu" high above his head, past the list of "Marquises," and placed it steadily and with utmost respect at the very end of the list of "Dukes."

Thus, on this magnificent chart of titles, the three dukes have been officially appointed, shining brightly.

With these three giants positioned, the rewards for the other generals flowed smoothly.

Zu Dabi, Zheng Chenggong, Cao Youyi, Zhou Yuji, Sun Yingyuan, Huang Degong, Cao Bianjiao, Li Dingguo...

One by one, names were read out, and wooden plaques were placed into their corresponding rows.

Marquis, Earl, Viscount, Baron—a series of ranks that built a new system of merit for the Ming Dynasty.

These are all relatively high-level military merit awards. As for other military merits, they are counted and reported by military personnel and are not included here.

The candlelight flickered, and the shadows of the father and son danced on the wall with the flames, as if the wheels of history were slowly turning with the wooden plaque in their hands, heading towards a brand new era.

"All right."

Emperor Chongzhen let out a long sigh and rubbed his slightly sore neck.

"This matter is settled for now. Tomorrow, I will summon Zu Dashou, Zheng Zhilong, and others to tell them my thoughts in person."

"After all, morale is most volatile after a major battle. This is especially true for the generals who are to remain in Liaodong and Korea. They are far from their homeland and are facing completely unfamiliar lands and the remaining forces that are eyeing them covetously. They will inevitably have doubts about being 'killed after the hunt' or 'receiving no reward for their merits'."

Informing them in advance reassured them, letting them know that His Majesty remembered their contributions and that the court would not mistreat them. This peace of mind was more important than any material reward. This was also a political tactic to win people's hearts.

Zhu Cilang smiled knowingly and bowed, saying:
"Your Majesty is wise; I have learned much from your teachings."

"Oh, right."

Zhu Cilang seemed to have thought of something else and continued:

"The rewards have been given, and the army's morale is high. It's time to consider returning to the capital."

"Yes, it's time to go back."

Emperor Chongzhen nodded.

Zhu Cilang continued:
"Father, today is the fifth day of the eighth month. If we can set sail in late August and take advantage of the southeast winds at this time to return, the journey will be smooth, and we can arrive in Tianjin in early September."

If it were any later, the north wind would pick up and shift to the northwest, causing rough seas and even ice floes. Even for large naval vessels, navigation would be extremely dangerous. Not to mention, winter comes early to the capital; if it were delayed until October, they would likely have to enter the city amidst snow and wind.

Emperor Chongzhen looked at the nautical chart, then at the deep night outside the window, and made his final decision:
"Then so be it. The reward will be taken care of tomorrow. The soldiers will have ten days of rest, and on August 20th, the entire army will break camp and return to the capital!"

"Your subject obeys the decree."

The following day, at the Seoul Military Training Ground.

Banners blotted out the sun, and drums and horns sounded in unison. Tens of thousands of soldiers, about to return to the capital with the emperor, dressed in brand-new military uniforms, stood in formation, awaiting the final verdict.

Emperor Chongzhen, dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, ascended the high platform, with Zhu Cilang standing beside him.

When the officials from the Ministry of Personnel finished reading the list of conferred titles, especially when they read "Zu Dashou and Zheng Zhilong, promoted to Duke of the State" and "Qin Liangyu, promoted to Duke of Zhongzhen," thunderous cheers erupted in the drill ground.

The generals, who had been filled with trepidation, were now flushed with excitement, and many even shed tears on the spot. This was not merely an honor, but the ultimate crowning of their half-life of military service and even the fate of their families.

With chests of gold and silver being brought up, the atmosphere instantly reached its climax!

To put it bluntly, fighting wars isn't just about protecting one's homeland; it's also about getting promoted and making money!

In mid-August, the autumn air was crisp and clear.

On the streets of Seoul, the edges of ginkgo leaves are beginning to turn golden, and wisps of smoke rise from the rooftops of farmhouses in North Korea, presenting a peaceful scene of post-war reconstruction.

Two weeks have passed in the blink of an eye, and all preparations for returning to Beijing are complete.

On the day of departure, the weather was perfect, with clear skies and sparkling sea. Dozens of huge warships were lined up in a row, with armored soldiers standing on the decks, looking majestic and imposing.

On the shore, a group of spontaneously gathered North Koreans knelt down, their cries of weeping, gratitude, and shouts of "Long live the King!" mingling together, shaking the sea.

The Korean officials, dressed in Ming Dynasty official robes, stood respectfully on the shore, watching the royal army return in glory.

Emperor Chongzhen and Zhu Cilang boarded Zheng Zhilong's warship side by side.

Standing at the bow of the ship, the sea breeze rustled the hem of his dragon robe.

As Emperor Chongzhen looked down at the vast expanse of land and his subjects kneeling and shouting, "Respectfully bidding farewell to His Majesty the Emperor, respectfully bidding farewell to His Highness the Crown Prince, long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" his eyes suddenly welled up with tears.

He felt not only gratified, but also an unprecedented sense of pride, one that would be recorded in history. (End of Chapter)