You, a tyrannical ruler, roam the heavens; you cannot understand my joy.

Exclusive! An exclusive interview with the author of "My Mental Illness Has Improved and Behind the Scenes of the Creation of 'Wandering Among the Heavens as a Tyrant, You Don't Understand My Happiness,'" for a limited time only.

The following morning, inside the Daqing Hall.

The civil and military officials stood in two rows, their shouts of "Long live the Emperor!" ringing out in unison, but lacking their usual composure and instead filled with a sense of undercurrents and scrutiny.

Lu Zuo sat on the dragon throne, his crown tassels hanging down, his gaze calmly sweeping across the crowd below, taking in all sorts of expressions.

"All of you, rise."

The officials expressed their gratitude, rose, and stood still.

Many people's eyes were quietly drawn to Qin Hui, the Vice Minister of State Affairs, who stood at the front of the civil officials' ranks, and Han Shizhong, the Privy Councilor, who stood tall and upright at the front of the military ranks.

Lu Zuo raised his hand slightly, and the old eunuch standing beside the imperial steps immediately stepped forward, unfurled a bright yellow scroll, and his voice resounded throughout the hall: "By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees:"

"I have been granted the mandate of heaven and will rule over all lands."

"However, we are deeply saddened by the Jin invaders' rampage, their invasion of our territory, and their humiliation of our people. This is truly a disgrace to our nation and a source of deep resentment for both the ruler and his subjects."

"At this critical moment for the nation, we must strengthen our military and armed forces to consolidate the foundation of the country and reassure the people."

"Han Shizhong, the Vice Privy Councilor, was loyal, brave, and devoted to the country, and was well-versed in military affairs."

"He shall be hereby appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Jianghuai Army, in charge of all military affairs along the river from Jiankang Prefecture to Zhenjiang Prefecture, both by land and water, and shall be given full authority to act as he sees fit, with all officers and soldiers under his command."

"I hope you will devote yourself wholeheartedly to strengthening the defenses of the river, and not fail my expectations."

As soon as the decree was issued, a suppressed gasp filled the hall.

All troops from the Jianghuai region are being deployed!

This means that almost all of the most important military command along the river has been handed over to Han Shizhong, and he has also been given the authority to "act as he sees fit"!

This is an unprecedented level of trust and empowerment!

Qin Hui's eyes flickered intensely beneath his lowered eyelids.

His Majesty summoned Han Shizhong yesterday; it seems he is about to make a big move!

Concentrating military power in the hands of one person in this way is a far cry from the past practice of distrusting military generals, and this is definitely not a good sign!

The old eunuch's voice continued to echo:

"In addition, to ensure military supplies, a special 'Jianghuai Military Supplies Transport Office' was established, directly under the Emperor, to be responsible for the procuring and transporting all necessary funds, provisions, armor, weapons, rewards, and other items to the Jianghuai front."

"The Ministry of Revenue, the Ministry of War, and the prefectures along the route must provide full assistance and must not delay or deduct funds."

"The Transport Commissioner shall be personally appointed by me. Anyone found guilty of corruption, delays, or substandard goods shall be severely punished without exception, regardless of their official rank!"

This clause caused many civil officials to change their expressions slightly.

By placing them directly under the emperor's command and bypassing the existing bureaucratic system, it was clear that this was an attempt to circumvent departments that could potentially "hinder" the army and ensure that supplies reached the troops directly!

His Majesty's support for the front lines and his unwavering determination are beyond imagination!

"Furthermore, the key to military strategy lies in acquiring capable people."

"An imperial edict ordered the Privy Council, together with Han Shizhong, to rigorously evaluate the performance of the generals of the armies on the Jianghuai front."

"But those who dare to fight, are good at fighting, and make meritorious contributions, regardless of their family background or seniority, can be promoted and rewarded handsomely."

"Anyone found incompetent, cowardly, corrupt, or derelict in their duties shall be immediately dismissed to uphold military discipline. We must ensure that everyone can fully utilize their talents and that morale is high!"

"So be it!"

After the imperial edict was read, the hall fell into a deathly silence, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Then, with a loud "boom," like cold water being poured into boiling oil, the pot exploded instantly!

"Your Majesty! This is absolutely unacceptable!"

Qin Hui was the first to step forward, his voice sounding somewhat shrill due to his urgency.

Holding a jade tablet, he spoke rapidly: "Vice-Director Han Shu is commendable for his loyalty and bravery, but the defense of the Jianghuai region is of paramount importance. Concentrating power in one person is probably not a wise strategy!"

"Furthermore, the power to 'act expediently' is too great; if something goes wrong, who can restrain it?"

"If this precedent is set, it may encourage military generals to become arrogant and uncontrollable!"

This decree completely disrupted his consistent stance.

Once Han Shizhong truly gains real power and achieves victories, Qin Hui's position and stance in the court will be in grave danger!

"What Prime Minister Qin says is absolutely right!"

Several civil officials immediately stepped forward to echo his sentiments; most of them were ministers from Qin Hui's faction or those close to the appeasement faction.

"Your Majesty, the dynasty has just been established, the national treasury is empty, and everything needs to be rebuilt. It is truly not advisable to start a war lightly!"

"Establishing a new Transport Commissioner, independent of the Three Departments and Six Ministries, would likely lead to fragmented governance and unnecessary expenses!"

"Promoting someone out of turn may boost morale, but it inevitably leads to the problem of indiscriminate rewards and discourages veteran generals and ministers!"

"Your Majesty, please reconsider!"

"General Han is indeed a skilled warrior, but the Jin forces are too powerful. How can we risk the fate of our nation and its people because of a moment of impulsiveness?"

"Your Majesty, we should prioritize safety!"

Opposition has been growing, with reasons citing traditional rules, finances, and risks, all centered on the concept of "harmony."

However, the military officers and some of the pro-war civil officials on the other side all showed excitement, their eyes burning with hope.

"Your Majesty is wise!"

A loud voice cut through the noise, and Han Shizhong stepped forward with his head held high, his eyes filled with tears, and his clasped hands trembling slightly.

This decree granted almost all of his requests from yesterday, and was even more explicit and forceful!

His heart surged with emotion, and he almost roared out loud. His Majesty has indeed made up his mind!

"Your Majesty's decisive leadership and far-sighted vision are truly remarkable! The Jurchen invaders have gone too far; only by rising up in resistance can we find the right path!"

"Your Majesty, I, Han Shizhong, am deeply grateful for your trust and favor; how could I not repay you with my life?!"

"I will dedicate myself wholeheartedly to strengthening the river defenses; if any mistake is made, I will gladly accept military punishment!"

"Your Majesty! This decree is excellent!"

Censor-in-Chief Zhao Ding also stepped forward, his expression invigorated: "Centralizing authority will eliminate obstacles; establishing dedicated transport stations will ensure military supplies; and promoting people without regard to rank will boost morale!"

"What Qin and others have said is truly a case of fearing the enemy like a tiger, clinging to outdated ideas and refusing to change. If this continues, the nation will cease to exist!"

"I second that proposal!"

"Your Majesty is wise! This should have been done long ago!"

"Only through war can we survive! I am willing to emulate General Han and vow to resist the Jin to the death!"

Pro-war officials spoke up one after another. Although their numbers were fewer than those of the other side, their high morale contrasted sharply with that of the opposing side.

In the imperial court, the lines between the two sides were immediately drawn, and the dispute reignited, becoming even more intense than the day before.

Just as the two sides were arguing fiercely, Lu Zuo, who had been sitting silently, slowly raised his hand.

It was just a simple action, yet it seemed to carry an invisible pressure, instantly silencing the noisy hall.

All eyes were focused on the throne.

Lu Zuo's gaze passed over the swaying jade tassels and landed precisely on Qin Hui, who was at the head of the group.

"Qin Hui".

Lu Zuo's voice was not loud, but it clearly reached everyone's ears, carrying an undeniable authority and... anger.

Qin Hui's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly bowed, saying, "Your subject is here."

"I said in court yesterday that I need to think carefully about the matter of the Jurchens."

Lu Zuo's voice was calm and unhurried, yet every word carried immense weight: "What? I pondered this all night, made a decision, and issued an edict, and you are all so eager to criticize me?"

"Your subject dares not!"

Qin Hui broke out in a cold sweat instantly: he hurriedly knelt down, "Your Majesty, I was only... I was only worried about the affairs of the state, and I feared that Your Majesty might be... might be provoked by momentary anger and make a mistake..."

"Spiritual?"

Lu Zuo sneered and interrupted him: "The Jurchens demand my land, increase my annual tribute, and even expect me to become their vassal and pay tribute!"

"Is this what you call a momentary impulse?"

"Qin Hui, I ask you, if you were to cede five cities today and ten cities tomorrow, would you then be able to sleep peacefully for one night?"

"Looking around, we saw that the Jin army was already there!"

"What will you do then?"

"Are you going to try and persuade me to cede territory, pay reparations, and become a vassal state?!"

His voice suddenly rose in pitch, like a thunderclap in the hall, making everyone's eardrums buzz.

The aura of someone who had long held a high position, now imbued with a chilling and ruthless presence, suddenly spread out, causing many civil officials to tremble and dare not look directly at him.

"I see you're not worried about state affairs; you're just terrified of the enemy!"

"You're afraid that if I decide to wage war, I won't need a minister like you who specializes in peace negotiations and seeks only to prosper, are you?"

Qin Hui's face turned deathly pale instantly. He prostrated himself on the ground, not daring to speak, his body trembling slightly.

He never expected that the Emperor would be so ruthless today, reprimanding him in public like this!

This is completely different from the indecisive and easily swayed official he used to be!

Lu Zuo's cold gaze swept over the officials who had just endorsed Qin Hui. Those who were looked at all lowered their heads and shrank back, remaining silent as if they were cicadas in winter.

"My mind is made up!"

"Resisting the Jin invaders and defending our country is a matter of course!"

"Han Shizhong!"

"Your subject is here!"

"I grant you power and authorize you to act arbitrarily. I hope you will not fail me and will safeguard this half of the country for me!"

"If any petty person dares to obstruct military operations, delay military plans, or withhold supplies or pay from the rear..."

"No matter who he is or what position he holds, I will punish him severely without exception and show no leniency!"

"Your subject obeys the decree!"

"Thank you for your great kindness, Your Majesty!" Han Shizhong choked up as he touched the ground with his head.

Lu Zuo no longer looked at the officials below, whose expressions varied. He flicked his sleeve and rose, his voice returning to its usual calm, yet carrying an undeniable sense of finality:

"Dismiss the court."

Having said that, without waiting for anyone to react, he turned and left amidst the eunuchs' loud greetings and the complex gazes of the officials, leaving behind a deathly silence in the hall and turmoil that had not yet subsided.

……

After the court session, Lu Zuo did not return to the inner palace. Instead, he changed into a simple set of casual clothes and, accompanied only by a few personal guards, went straight to the Imperial Guards' training ground on the west side of the palace.

The drill ground was vast, and the rammed earth was filled with the smell of dust and sweat.

It was not a time for large-scale drills; only a few scattered groups of soldiers were conducting basic training in spearmanship, archery, and horsemanship, their shouts echoing across the open field.

Upon seeing the emperor's arrival, the commander of the Imperial Guards, who was supervising the drills, hurriedly led several officers forward and knelt to greet him.

"This humble general, Wang Bing, pays his respects to Your Majesty!"

"We were unaware of Your Majesty's arrival and have failed to greet you properly. We beg Your Majesty's forgiveness!"

The commander was a man around forty years old, with a burly build, a resolute face, dark skin, and large, bony hands, clearly someone who had practiced martial arts for many years.

"Rise."

Lu Zuo waved his hand, his gaze sweeping over the soldiers wielding spears and practicing swords and shields on the training ground, and asked, "Commander Wang."

"I have observed that your men are training diligently, and you yourself must be quite skilled."

"What martial arts do you usually practice?"

Wang Bing stood up, slightly surprised upon hearing this.

In the past, the emperor would only come to the training ground during sacrificial ceremonies or inspections, and never cared about the specific martial arts training.

But he dared not be negligent and replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, this humble general has some basic knowledge of fist fighting and weapons, but dares not claim to be exceptionally skilled."

"What I practice daily is nothing more than the 'battle-breaking spear' and 'horse-slaying saber' commonly used in the army."

"And a basic boxing technique called 'Raging Bull Strength' for building strength and toughening muscles and bones."

Breaking Formation Spear, Horse-Slaying Saber, Raging Bull Strength...

Lu Zuo silently thought to himself, "They are indeed all widely circulated external martial arts that focus on battlefield combat and basic training."

Even if you master the skills, you'll only become stronger and more skilled in your moves.

With these skills, he's at most equivalent to dozens of burly men.

With these skills, he's at most equivalent to dozens of burly men.

This is a drop in the ocean compared to his goal of quickly acquiring personal fighting power.

He remained outwardly calm, but instead showed a hint of interest: "Oh?"

"That sounds like a tough, aggressive approach."

"I have been feeling rather unwell lately, and the imperial physicians have also said that I need to strengthen my body."

"Commander Wang, I wish to learn some martial arts to strengthen my body. Could you teach me your skills?"

"what?"

Wang Bing was stunned, almost doubting that he had misheard. Teach His Majesty martial arts?

He glanced quickly at Lu Zuo's slender figure and his pampered, fair, and slender hands.

Your Majesty has grown up in the inner palace since childhood, how could you have ever suffered the hardship of martial arts training?

These spear-wielding and horse-slaying swords are ruthless skills for battlefield combat, and the "Bull-like Strength" requires rigorous training of muscles and bones, which can only be effective with daily practice. Your Majesty's physique...

I'm afraid he couldn't even swing the lightest gun barrel a few times.

He inwardly groaned, but dared not show the slightest disrespect on his face. He could only gently advise, "Your Majesty is diligent in governing and loves the people. Your concern for the nation and your desire to strengthen your body are truly a blessing for all the people."

"However... the way of martial arts is not something that can be mastered in a day. One must train in the sweltering heat of summer and the freezing cold of winter, and temper one's muscles and bones over a long period of time before one can see any results."

"Furthermore, mastering swordsmanship, spears, fists, and footwork all requires diligent practice and gradual progress. One must avoid being impatient for quick results, otherwise, it can easily damage one's bones and muscles."

"Your Majesty is of noble birth and burdened with state affairs; I fear..."

"I fear I have neither the leisure nor the necessity to endure such hardship."

"It would be more prudent to have the imperial physician prescribe some gentle and nourishing remedies, supplemented with health-preserving exercises such as the Five Animal Frolics and the Eight Pieces of Brocade..."

As he spoke, he carefully observed Lu Zuo's expression.

In his view, His Majesty was probably just acting on a whim, influenced by the pro-war atmosphere in the court, and wanted to experience "military affairs".

After a few days, the novelty wears off, and they naturally give up.

My words have both demonstrated the difficulty of learning martial arts and provided a way out. His Majesty should take the opportunity to give up this idea, right?

However, after listening, Lu Zuo merely glanced at him indifferently and said, "I appreciate Commander Wang's kindness."

Lu replied, "I will personally learn the techniques of health preservation and exercise."

"But I would like to learn a little about spear and sword techniques, not to fight on the battlefield, but to loosen my muscles and bones and understand the principles of combat."

"Just teach me, I know what I'm doing."

Wang Bing knew he couldn't refuse, so he could only grit his teeth and bow, saying, "Since Your Majesty has this intention, how dare this humble general disobey?"

"only……"

"Your Majesty, please act according to your capabilities."

"How about... we start with the stance and breathing techniques of this 'Raging Bull Strength'?"

"Although this skill is fundamental, it is the most effective in strengthening the foundation and cultivating vitality."

"Alright." Lu Zuo nodded. "Then Commander Wang can demonstrate right here."

"Yes."

Wang Bing walked to an open space in the center of the training ground, took a deep breath, then lowered his back, spread his legs, and assumed a standing posture.

"Your Majesty, please take a look. This is the 'Rooting Stance,' the introductory stance of the Wild Bull Strength, along with the accompanying 'Wild Bull Breathing Method.'"

The key point is...

Wang Lin slowly demonstrated the movements while explaining in detail the key points of the movements and the coordination of breathing.

He taught very seriously, fearing that if the emperor accidentally twisted his back or sprained his ankle, he would be in grave danger.

A short while later, Lu Zuo, having mastered the three martial arts techniques, turned and left, heading straight for the inner palace.

.......

At this moment, at Qin Hui's residence.

Qin Hui sat upright in the main seat, his face seemingly calm, but deep within his slightly narrowed eyes, there was an undisguised surge of shock, anger, and fear.

On either side of him sat three or four trusted officials, all of whom were his key figures who had supported him in court that day.

"His Majesty is like a completely different person today!"

An official dressed in a scarlet robe, with a thin face and somewhat shifty eyes, spoke first, his voice trembling.

This person was Wan Qixie, the Imperial Censor.

"He spoke so sternly and harshly, rebuking Prime Minister Qin in court, and then handing over all military and political power in the Jianghuai region to a military man like Han Shizhong!"

"After this... will there be any place for us to stand?"

Luo Ruji, a censor and concurrently a scholar of the Imperial Academy, rubbed his hands together, looking worried, and said, "His Majesty's actions are no small matter."

"Not only was Han Shizhong granted the power to command the expeditions, but a separate military supplies transport office was also established. It's clear they wanted to bypass the three provinces and monopolize financial power to fund the military!"

"If this continues, our voice in the court will surely be greatly diminished!"

"It's not just about the right to speak!" said Zhang Jun, the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel. "Once Han Shizhong gains power, how could he tolerate me?"

"And those like Zhao Ding will surely become even more arrogant!"

"When the old scores are settled, we'll likely be left without a burial place!"

His words made the faces of the people present even uglier.

The people have often tripped up the pro-war faction, and if Han Shizhong and Zhao Ding really gained real power, they will surely settle scores later.

Qin Hui pondered for a moment and said, "In my opinion, His Majesty is merely angered by the Jurchens' aggressive attitude."

"Or perhaps he was misled by Han Shizhong and others, which led to this swift and decisive action."

"The mind of an emperor is unfathomable; how could he truly entrust the fate of the nation to the hands of a mere military man?"

"The most urgent task is to find out why His Majesty's attitude has suddenly changed so drastically."

He paused, a glint of shrewdness flashing in his eyes: "For example, is there someone in the palace... whispering in your ear?"

Wan Qixie immediately understood: "Does my husband mean... Su Wan?"

"Or is it that newly favored beauty?"

"Why don't we cater to their tastes and present them with some exquisite trinkets, some lost ancient musical scores, or even..."

"How about finding one or two beautiful women who are both talented and charming, and know how to navigate social situations, to accompany me and relieve my boredom?"

"Simply trying to please them isn't enough."

Zhang Jun said sinisterly, "If Han Shizhong advances rashly and suffers a defeat, losing many soldiers and generals, His Majesty will naturally understand that seeking peace is the right path!"

"We might be able to manipulate the intelligence transmission process..."

Upon hearing this, the air in the sealed room almost froze.

This is a serious crime!

Qin Hui gave Zhang Jun a deep look and said quietly, "Perhaps... we could send a trusted confidant to try and get some information from the Jin Kingdom?"

His words were veiled, but the meaning was clear.

They were secretly colluding with the Jurchens!

They used the Jin people to create trouble for Han Shizhong.