[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"origin-shao-song":3,"chapter-shao-song-shao-song-chapter-445":6},{"origin":4,"title":5},"chinese","Shao Song",{"chapter":7,"nextChapterSlug":19,"prevChapterSlug":20,"totalChapters":21,"novelImage":22},{"id":8,"novel_id":9,"title":10,"slug":11,"index":12,"content":13,"wordcount":14,"created_at":15,"updated_at":15,"volume":16,"translator":17,"content_hash":18},1558611,2024,"Chapter 445: The Covenant","shao-song-chapter-445",445,"\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu learned of Xi Yin's death in late May, and at the same time he also learned of the deaths of Wanyan Woben, Wanyan Hela, and Qin Gui and his wife.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To be fair, he was caught off guard... how could they all be dead? If they were all dead, what was he still fussing about here?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In that instant, he had the intention of turning back south, because the south was already prepared.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, this His Majesty soon regained his clarity—namely, that the deaths of these people, whether it was so-and-so who died at the hands of \"Khitan bandits\" or Xi Yin who slit his own throat in public at Huanglong Prefecture, were in essence still killed by him and the Great Song.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There was no need to quibble over the specific form.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Moreover, at this point, he had to give the frontier a conclusion and bring the entire war to a result.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With this thought, Zhao Jiu immediately issued an order appointing Liu Hongdao, the Left Vice Minister of War concurrently overseeing the Water Conservancy Commission, who had just arrived at Juhuadao as a special envoy from Dongjing, to temporarily act as the Pacification Commissioner of Liaodong, and sent out decrees summoning various key officials and chieftains of Eastern Mongolia, Goryeo, Khitan, Xi, and Bohai to come to Juhuadao together to witness the final submission of the Jin state.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, it was unavoidable to go along with popular sentiment and have Yue Fei bring those three chosen kings—originally, this task would have been more suitable for Liu Yan, who was already in Liaoyang handling some public and private affairs; having Yue Fei, a Field Marshal, do it seemed like overkill, but Zhao Jiu knew that with the Jurchens making such a fuss, there was no real warfare left beyond the frontier, and Yue Fei coming to Juhuadao to back him up seemed like the true use of his talents.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To skip the idle talk, time passed like this. His Majesty Zhao let Yanjing and Dongjing each go about their own business, while he himself lingered and waited in the narrow mountain-sea corridor north of Yuguan and south of Mount Yiwulu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sometimes he went to the island, sometimes he stayed on land, sometimes he climbed mountains, sometimes he waded through water. Most of the time he wrote his \"Miscellaneous Notes on Subduing Demons in the Western Journey,\" and occasionally he had to deal with some political disturbances.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>These so-called disturbances naturally came from the endless stream of envoys from all sides.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Among them were not only envoys from the various frontier tribes who, upon hearing the summons, sent out feelers with their own reactions, but also envoys from other states who learned of the war's outcome later and had longer journeys.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Western Liao was certainly unavoidable. Although they had received repeated promises from His Majesty Zhao, Dongjing, and Yanjing, their envoys still came in waves, just waiting for His Majesty Zhao's final decision to send a few tens of thousands of Jurchen strong men and over a hundred thousand family members of various tribes to the Western Regions to solidify their national foundation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In Zhao Jiu's mind, the Western Liao was the western barrier of the state. Not to mention that he could still fleece them; even if he couldn't, it would be worth unconditionally supporting and funding them. And the Western Liao's unique national condition of having a few tens of thousands of people overseeing a territory ten thousand li across meant they had almost no reason to refuse population input of a similar culture... Not to mention Khitans and Jurchens, Zhao Jiu was even prepared to send some of the cultured and reasonable Yan-Yun great clans over there. In the future, criminals and disgraced officials could also be appropriately exported, and the Western Liao had no reason to refuse.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>No matter how chaotic this imported population was, weren't they still more trustworthy than the Gaochang people, or the Muslim Turks and Karakhanids?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Therefore, this comprehensive alliance between the Great Song and the Western Liao was almost a natural one. As long as later generations didn't pull any tricks, it would continue for a considerable period of time.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, this was also the fundamental reason Zhao Jiu urgently wanted to convene a meeting of all the frontier forces. Because not every neighbor was the Western Liao, he needed a formal framework.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Apart from this, the Gao clan of Dali and the Li clan of Annam also sent batches of congratulatory envoys—one wave after the victory at Taiyuan-Yuancheng, one wave after the victory at Huolu, and one wave after the Jurchens fled Yanjing. Basically, after receiving news from Dongjing, they realized the situation was changing and hastily responded back to their home countries. Even Japan, after the victory at Huolu, because Minamoto no Tameyoshi and Taira no Kiyomori wrote letters to their home country, prompted Taira no Tadamori to come to court again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All sorts of things, if placed in the past, could be considered a minor gathering of all nations paying homage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And indeed, it encompassed the Great Song's main neighboring states.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the envoys were not only from foreign states. During these days, or rather, after the news of His Majesty Zhao leaving Yuguan spread, Dongjing also began to continuously send special envoys, repeatedly making formal requests for the imperial return.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not to mention anything else, just regarding Dongjing, to be honest, Zhao Jiu certainly understood their unease, but with his resolve already made, he showed no softness. Basically, all the special envoys sent were assigned to posts in the north, under the command of Yanjing... Liu Hongdao was a typical example, but it wasn't just Liu Hongdao; quite a few officials, both senior and junior, who came from Dongjing before and after him were dealt with in this way.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Soon, the Dongjing Secret Pavilion also realized the problem, or rather, they began to become more tactful. For example, after Liu Hongdao, they sent the rather nominal but politically influential Grand Clan Administrator Zhao Shi? to pay respects and inquire about His Majesty's health.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But upon hearing the relevant news, this His Majesty immediately issued an edict, ordering the Grand Clan Administrator, who was still on the road, to directly turn around and go to Huolu to offer sacrifices to the fallen soldiers, and then go to Yanjing to establish a sacrificial site modeled after the Yuetai. The Grand Clan Administrator had originally come with a political mission, but after receiving His Majesty Zhao's new task and thinking about the matter of his eldest son's soul finding peace, he simply dropped Dongjing's burden and wholeheartedly carried out His Majesty's wishes, naturally falling under Yanjing's arrangements.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>From beginning to end, he never even left Yuguan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the Grand Clan Administrator, the next to come was Lu Benzhong... Everyone knew this was a famous old gentleman from a prestigious family who only knew how to write poetry. Sending him to His Majesty was like throwing a meat bun at a dog—no loss if he didn't come back. Yet even so, His Majesty Zhao remained composed. Since he currently lacked a scribe, he accepted him without hesitation and summoned him to Juhuadao to accompany the imperial entourage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>During this time, Lu Benzhong was initially a bit uneasy because of some matters he had been instructed about before the war, which led Zhao Jiu to personally comfort him—a trivial matter not worth mentioning.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Finally, by June, when many envoys from the frontier had arrived at Juhuadao, Dongjing's \"big move\" also arrived... Consort Pan Xianfei appeared outside Yuguan with the seven-year-old Princess Yiyou.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having long known that the mother and daughter were coming, and it was even his own approval, His Majesty Zhao was perfectly calm about it.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>How could one push away his own wife and daughter?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Therefore, Zhao Jiu, on one hand, had Consort Pan and his daughter accompany him, and on the other hand, sent Shao Chengzhang back to Yanjing to inquire about the health of Grand Councilor Lu Yihao, and at the same time, to tidy up the old Liao and Jin palaces in Yanjing as a place for Consort Pan and her daughter to stay when they returned... Clearly, even Consort Pan had been \"naturalized\" by Yanjing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was entirely foreseeable that after this, Dongjing would become even more flustered. But there was no need to think about it for now, because shortly after Consort Pan and Princess Yiyou arrived at Juhuadao, everyone who should come had come, and even those who shouldn't have come had come.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The seven or eight Mongol chieftains led by Khabul Khan of Eastern Mongolia, the seven or eight Khitan great clan chieftains led by Yelu Yudu, Goryeo Marshal Kim Bu-sik, the various Bohai great clans, the five Xi clans, plus the three chosen kings of the Jin state who were about to arrive—these were the targets Zhao Jiu had clearly or roughly summoned, the main parties in this Juhuadao audience.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Their arrival was only natural.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the Western Liao envoy, the Dali Gao clan envoy, the Annam Li clan envoy, and Taira no Tadamori from Japan, although Zhao Jiu had not issued an edict summoning them, they happened to be present and could at least serve as atmosphere... And indeed, they themselves were subjects of future extensions of certain matters, so it was better that they came than not.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the Western Mongol king Toghril, upon hearing the relevant news, actually disregarded everything and, leading only a hundred or so riders, raced through Dading Prefecture to arrive, even faster than the five Xi clans. This truly made Zhao Jiu have to admire this fellow's loyalty.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Relatively speaking, the Goryeo king Wang Kai suddenly sending the old minister Kim In-chon directly from Gaegyeong seemed somewhat lacking in sincerity... At the very least, he should have come himself. Who did he think he was looking down on?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, compared to the other envoys and even tribal headmen who were successively granted audiences and even participated in preliminary discussions on certain matters, Kim In-chon had been on the island for seven or eight days without ever being summoned. When Kim Bu-sik arrived on the island and went to question him, it only ended in a falling out.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, Kim In-chon finally received notification that on the seventeenth of June, he would have the opportunity to have an audience with His Majesty, because the main protagonist of this Juhuadao assembly had finally arrived—Wanyan Digunai, Wanyan Wulu, and Heshilie Liangbi all arrived at Jinzhou together and would board the island to enter the Great Dragon Palace Temple to pay respects to His Majesty Zhao.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The reason it took over a month to arrive here was that the Jin state also had to fetch from Huining Prefecture the former puppet Qi state ruler Liu Yu, Fu Liang—one of the two Hebei garrisons established by Li Gang who had sold out Chang'an—and Deputy Naval Commander Li Qi, all obvious Song traitor officials and generals. At the same time, they had to exhaustively search the treasuries of Huining Prefecture and Huanglong Prefecture for gold, silver, pearls, jade, and other valuable goods to deliver together, as a show of sincerity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After all these various matters were arranged, coming over with Yue Fei was actually already considered fast.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, regardless of speed, this did not prevent Liu Yan, the Commandery Prince of Liaoyang, from hearing the news and hastily turning back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty's divine army swept forth, bringing the entire realm to submission. East, west, south, north, territories were expanded and borders extended. Chinese and barbarians alike, upon seeing your might, surrendered with hands tied. Your achievements shine in the annals of history, your prestige shakes heaven and earth... At this opportune moment, blessed by Your Majesty's holy grace to be granted an audience, Goryeo swears by the bond of lord and vassal, to forever fulfill the duties of a screen and vassal. Our loyal and faithful heart is as bright as the sun. Should we ever change or betray, may the gods strike us down.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the morning of the seventeenth of June, in the tenth year of Jianyan, with bright sunshine, in an ancient seaside temple, an open-air assembly that would affect the order of the entire northern frontier for decades or even centuries to come began. But right at the start, the Goryeo old minister Kim In-chon, taking the opportunity of performing the rites and paying respects, tried to force his way in... With a command from Zhao Jiu, everyone else rose and returned to their positions, but only he remained prostrate on the ground, respectfully reciting words that this His Majesty had heard so often in recent days that his ears were growing calluses.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was truly lacking in martial virtue.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Academician Kim...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu couldn't be bothered to play games with him and directly interrupted him in public. \"Didn't you say these same words to some Jin nobles ten years ago?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty's insight spans ten thousand li, and your memory is flawless.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The white-haired Kim In-chon looked up directly, his words earnest. \"These words were exactly from the memorial of submission that our state's ruler, Kim Bu-sik, presented to the Jin people back then, congratulating the Jin envoy Han Fang on the Jin's capture of Dongjing and the completion of the Jingkang Incident... Your servant's literary talent is insufficient, so I simply borrowed them.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu was stunned for a moment, then dumbfounded—really?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In fact, not only Zhao Jiu, but also the envoys of various states, the tribal headmen, the Song civil and military officials, and even the attending palace guards, the monks of the Great Dragon Palace Temple who served cold drinks and prepared seafood, were all left stunned by this Goryeo envoy's audacity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One could only say that Goryeo produced talents! Marshal Kim Bu-sik was already quite remarkable, but then this old man, sent to have an audience with His Majesty on behalf of the king, was also this outrageous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Is that so?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu came back to his senses, forcefully suppressing his inner urge to complain, and reluctantly looked at Kim Bu-sik on the side. \"Grand Councilor Kim, is this the case?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"To let Your Majesty know, this text is indeed an article written by Han Fang and your servant ten years ago... The first half was Han Fang's words in Goryeo boasting of the Jin's military achievements in the Jingkang Incident, and the second half was part of the memorial of submission your servant submitted on behalf of Goryeo.\" Kim Bu-sik's inner thoughts were unknown, but his expression was extremely calm as he stepped forward and replied serenely. \"We have made a spectacle of ourselves before Your Majesty.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, they had made a spectacle. In fact, it wasn't just His Majesty Zhao who had seen the joke; with this happening in front of so many envoys and dignitaries, it was likely that the whole world would be laughing at them together.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the joke was twofold. On one hand, it was the spectacle of Kim Bu-sik and Goryeo's fickleness. On the other hand, it was the spectacle of Goryeo's internal strife, almost self-destructive, aimed at preventing Kim Bu-sik, who already held military power, from gaining further legitimacy from Zhao Jiu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>One could only say that Kim Bu-sik had a remarkably strong psychological constitution.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, His Majesty Zhao was no pushover either. He hesitated for a moment, then simply spoke frankly in public:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"In that case, Grand Councilor Kim, should I issue a clear edict, proclaiming it to the world, and enfeoff you as the King of Goryeo? I can crown you here and now in public, to spare Goryeo from making any more spectacles of itself.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Jin Ren who had come under orders looked pale. How could he have imagined that his scheme of sowing discord, which had cost him dearly, would instead encounter such an unreasonable Son of Heaven of Zhao Song?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, to Jin Ren's surprise, Jin Fushi, standing to one side, almost without hesitation, cupped his hands and replied: \"Your Majesty... Goryeo has enjoyed its state for over two hundred years, long embracing virtue and enlightenment. Although it has made some reluctant moves during the rise and fall of great powers, it has not reached the point of dynastic succession being severed. Moreover, our king ascended the throne young; for the first ten-plus years, state affairs were mostly in the hands of powerful ministers, and for the last ten years, we faced the conflict between the two capitals. To barely maintain order is already quite good; it cannot be called a loss of virtue or incompetence, and we should not suffer such calamity. As for this foreign minister, though grateful for Your Majesty's repeated favors, having received Goryeo's state grace for decades as a subject, how could I betray the virtue of a minister and lose fifty years of reputation in one day? I beg Your Majesty to understand.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I naturally understand.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu glanced at the relieved Jin Ren, unconcerned, and only discussed seriously with Jin Fushi: \"But Chancellor Jin, if you wish to maintain Goryeo and preserve the Wang dynasty's succession, then I must discuss with you some of Goryeo's internal and external affairs from before...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though Jin Fushi had prepared himself, he could not help but sigh slightly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Academician Zheng Zhichang, Zheng, who has been envoy to Great Song many times, whose literary fame spreads across the world, and who was the holder of the Jinhe Alliance treaty, has now been killed by you. I ask, how will Goryeo, or you, Jin Fushi, account for this to me, to the Western Liao's Dashi Linya, to the two Mongol kings, and to the king of Gaochang?\" Zhao Jiu asked calmly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At these words, Toli and Khabul immediately looked at him with disdain, as if they truly remembered what Zheng Zhichang looked like.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Furthermore.\" Before Jin Fushi could answer, Zhao Jiu took his bewildered daughter from one side and placed her on his lap, continuing to ask into the sea breeze: \"When I launched the northern campaign, I issued a clear decree to Goryeo, ordering you to comply with the Jinhe Alliance and the virtue of vassalage, to attack Liaodong, and stipulated that for each day's delay, you would pay ten thousand strings of military funds to reward the troops... You were over a hundred days late. What do you have to say about that?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi was silent for a moment, and Jin Ren on the ground also bowed his head without speaking. Many envoys from various states and tribal leaders around them stroked their beards and sneered, because everyone knew this was a dead knot Goryeo had to face... it wasn't something they could easily get through just by maintaining internal unity; otherwise, the war would have been fought in vain.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I have something to say.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, Zhao Jiu, holding his daughter, suddenly became serious before the other could speak: \"The weight of a state lies in its military. Today's matters and future matters will likely have to return to the war itself...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone present immediately became solemn.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This war has Song and Jin as its main bodies, with all states and tribes north of the Yangtze River participating.\" Zhao Jiu continued slowly and earnestly: \"I won't speak of before the Jingkang Incident; counting only from Jingkang, it's been nearly twelve years. In these twelve years, the cost of war is not just the casualties of a single battle like Huolu or the recent Yaoshan...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The loss and recovery of territory spans tens of thousands of li; cities changed hands, likely accumulating over a thousand times...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Military casualties number in the hundreds of thousands; civilian casualties in the war probably number in the millions...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Han, Jurchen, Tangut, Khitan, Xi, Goryeo, Bohai, Mongol, and even Gaochang and Japan—all had soldiers don armor and line up to fight...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Liao was destroyed because of this, Western Xia was destroyed because of this; Western Liao, Eastern Mongolia, and Western Mongolia were established from this...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Han suffered the most casualties and humiliation; the Khitan were split in two; the Bohai tribes lost nearly half their population in the war; the Jurchen are unclear, but they likely lost nearly half their population as well. The rise and fall of states, the survival of tribes—all are attributed to this war...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As Zhao Jiu spoke slowly, the faces of the envoys and tribal leaders below grew increasingly serious. By the end, in the packed main courtyard before the Mahavira Hall of the Great Dragon Palace Temple, it was almost deathly silent. Even Princess Yiyou sensed the atmosphere and, despite the slight heat, leaned into her father's arms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"So, I called you all here today because this war is not just about Great Song and Great Jin; the rise and fall of your states and the survival of your tribes are also at stake here.\" Having said this, Zhao Jiu finally looked back at Jin Fushi: \"Chancellor Jin, Marshal Jin... I will not hold you accountable for your vacillations during the Jingkang Incident. After all, at that time, I was being chased by Wushu and had to hide on Mount Bagong, let alone you. But after the fall of Western Xia, with the Jinhe Alliance, all states determined the right and wrong of this war. I ask you, does Goryeo recognize it?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Of course we recognize it!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi did not dare hesitate for a moment: \"Goryeo is a vassal of Song, not of Jin. In this war, we follow Heaven's will, inherit Chinese civilization, and oppose the barbarians... This is a matter of great principle; we dare not make the slightest error.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Then tell me now: since you take the Jinhe Alliance as the standard and claim to follow Song against Jin, what about the matter of Zheng Zhichang and the delay of over three months in sending troops?\" Zhao Jiu continued to press seriously: \"Do you think these are just verbal quibbles? Even if they are only words and paper, when placed in such a grand war, they can determine the survival of a state, can they not?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi did not hesitate; he knelt to the ground.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To put it bluntly, Jin Fushi was a clear-headed man. This matter could, of course, be argued based on the Jinhe Alliance, but even without such an argument, returning to fundamental interests, Goryeo had to pay a price for its fence-sitting during the war... especially since Great Song was now in complete victory, and Yue Fei's forces, together with the Khitan, had cut off the Goryeo army's return route around Liaoyang. Moreover, the Son of Heaven of Zhao Song was not an easy person to deal with.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Had they not seen why Western Xia was destroyed?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Zheng Zhichang died in a private feud within Goryeo, unrelated to the great cause. If Your Majesty wishes to pursue this matter, I, as a foreign minister, am willing to pay with my life.\" After a moment of silence, Jin Fushi could only kowtow and submit to judgment: \"As for the delay in sending troops, it was truly because Goryeo was empty and exhausted, and it took a long time to muster the army... However, as Your Majesty said, there was a clear decree at the time, and I have no excuse. Therefore, Goryeo is willing to accept punishment with its entire state, but the treasury is truly empty. I beg Your Majesty to understand... Truly throwing Goryeo into chaos, making the people destitute, would not benefit Your Majesty or Great Song either.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"After so many years of war, even the abandoned ponds and overgrown trees are weary of talk of arms. I am naturally willing to be merciful.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu finally nodded, but then looked at Lu Benzhong beside him. The latter understood and immediately took a pre-prepared piece of paper from his sleeve, stepping forward half a pace to await orders: \"But for some matters, this is the final word. You may offer suggestions, but if I do not permit them, you need not insist... Otherwise, even if I am reluctant, I will have to trouble Marshal Yue once more.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yue Fei quickly stood up and cupped his hands, but then sat down again at Zhao Jiu's wave... His return this time was indeed meant to be used for intimidation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>On the other side, before Jin Fushi, kneeling before the hall, could respond, Jin Ren hurriedly kowtowed and agreed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu glanced at the two Goryeo men, too lazy to bother, and only looked at Lu Benzhong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Lu Benzhong immediately stepped forward and read out the final disposition for Goryeo:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"First, Jin Fushi is to be granted the title of Duke, with a substantive fief of Goryeo's Western Capital (Pyongyang), serving as Marshal of Goryeo and Privy Councilor, to assist in governing Goryeo. He shall not be replaced without the decree of the Chinese Son of Heaven...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi and Jin Ren both looked up in shock.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Second, all lands and cities seized in this campaign shall be returned, and all plundered money, goods, and people shall be repatriated, not a single item to be taken back into the country.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Third, Goryeo must participate in the 'Chinese Political and Cultural Integration Imperial Edict,' the 'Great Song-Goryeo Friendly Trade and Navigation Imperial Edict,' and the 'Northern Frontier Joint Defense Imperial Edict.'\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After reading this, while everyone was still bewildered, Lu Benzhong fell silent and directly stepped back.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To be fair, everyone understood the first article. It was nothing more than using the support of Jin Fushi to severely punish Goryeo. Given Goryeo's small population and the long-standing opposition between the Western Capital and Kaijing, splitting them directly would likely create a state within a state, almost tantamount to outright division.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, Jin Fushi himself had already made up his mind to grit his teeth and accept it, planning to return it to Wang Kai after his death... After all, it was better than letting Yue Fei pick some random military man from Liaoyang to do the job, right?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>We are the fish on the chopping block; that's just how it is.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And the second article was only to be expected.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But what the hell was the third article? It sounded terrifying, didn't it?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Sure enough, Jin Fushi, sweating profusely, asked with difficulty: \"May I ask what are the three imperial edicts?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You need not worry.\" Zhao Jiu replied calmly: \"The first two articles are the disposition for Goryeo and you. The three imperial edicts are the fundamental matters of today's Chrysanthemum Island meeting, and everyone must participate. They are not targeted at Goryeo... The Jurchen have not yet been dealt with; when they arrive, I will announce them all together.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi was slightly relieved, but could not help but raise a key issue: \"Your Majesty, I can accept the other lands gained from the campaign, but Baozhou was originally Goryeo's old territory...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This matter falls under the 'Northern Frontier Joint Defense Imperial Edict.' One major article in this edict is precisely to demarcate borders to prevent further conflict.\" Zhao Jiu replied immediately: \"As for so-called Baozhou, when the edict is announced, you may speak of it then if you wish... Anything else?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty.\" Jin Fushi fell silent, while Jin Ren made a final effort: \"Regarding the matter of the Duke's title, there is no precedent in Goryeo...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"There will be from now on.\" Zhao Jiu remained calm: \"This matter falls under the 'Chinese Political and Cultural Integration Imperial Edict.' Not only Goryeo, but all states and tribes must unify titles and connect official ranks... Furthermore, no state is permitted to oppose the three imperial edicts. Those I point to who dare not accept are enemies, not friends. I would rather plant mulberries for ten years and raise fish for ten years than to eliminate the black sheep and bring peace to the world.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Ren breathed heavily several times but dared not say more.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Summon the Jurchen!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Seeing this, Zhao Jiu's gaze swept left and right, up and down, and he finally waved his hand to temporarily dismiss the Goryeo people, moving on to the main course of the day.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone dared not be negligent; they returned to their seats in solemn silence and then looked together towards the temple gate. Sure enough, after a moment, armored soldiers swarmed in, bringing a group of people with them. Among them, the most eye-catching were three young men who looked like Han Chinese.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for Liu Yu, Fu Liang, and the others, they had long been transferred and escorted overland to Yanjing.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Back to the present, the courtyard had been solemn, but as these three Jurchen noble youths, who appeared like 'Han Chinese,' entered the courtyard, they immediately caused everyone to whisper, murmur, and even sneer and look down upon them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Two of the young men had already turned red-faced.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the third person, not only did his expression not change, but upon arriving before the throne, he strode forward directly, knelt calmly at the very spot where Jin Fushi had knelt, kowtowed repeatedly, and after raising his head, spoke startling words:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son, Wanyan Liang, pays homage to the Imperial Father. Long live the Imperial Father, long live, long live, ten thousand years!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Even though the hall was filled with northern heroes who prided themselves on being well-traveled and knowledgeable, they were all stunned speechless, and then the entire venue fell silent. The two half-grown youths behind him were also at a loss.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After a long moment, it was actually the Yiyou Princess in Zhao Jiu's arms who broke the silence, her eyes wide: \"Father... when did I gain an older brother?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone suppressed their laughter, and the youth who called himself Wanyan Liang, though his eyelids twitched at the words, still held his head high and did not move.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>At this point, Zhao Jiu, being well-traveled and knowledgeable after all, finally burst out laughing. After finishing, he pointed at the two behind the youth:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"You two are truly discourteous... At this point, you won't even call me 'Father'?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The two behind finally could not hold out any longer. They stepped forward together and knelt, saying, \"Long live the Father.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu laughed again, then nodded and said, \"State your names.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son, Wanyan Yong!\" The youngest one replied with his head bowed, his face still flushed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son, Shi Lieliangbi!\" The other also reported.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>All three had, without prior agreement, used Han-style names. Zhao Jiu thought for a moment and then matched them with the information he had previously obtained about the three—the orphan of Crown Prince Wanyan Woben, the orphan of Third Prince Wanyan Eriduo, and the young master of the Shi Lie clan, a student of Wanyan Xiyin.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After making the connection, Zhao Jiu, holding his daughter, continued with emotion: \"To be honest, after I heard that Xiyin was dead, I once wanted to have General Yue march directly to Huining Prefecture. Since Xiyin was dead, I truly did not know if the Jurchens still had any possibility of Sinicization, so naturally I had thoughts of uprooting them... But seeing you three, I am relieved.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Let Father know, your son has studied books and literature since childhood and is quite versed in poetry. I dare not compare myself to Father's timeless masterful skill, but I am sufficient to bear the virtue of enlightenment.\" Wanyan Liang spoke eagerly again. Clearly, having lost his father and most of his family, he urgently needed this position as Jurchen ruler to protect himself and for future revenge. \"Father has swept the realm with awe-inspiring prestige. Your son has a poem to present to Father, to slightly display Father's ambition.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Oh?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu was genuinely interested.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your son begs Father's grace to allow him to rise and recite.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Alright.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After this exchange, Wanyan Liang was the first to stand up. He looked around, then paced past the two beside him, faced east, and recited a poem:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Ten thousand miles of cart and script are unified, how could the Yan and Yun have separate borders?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Leading a million troops on the Yellow River's banks, standing my horse atop the first peak of Mount Taihang!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu was stunned for a moment inside, finally realizing who this fellow was, but his face showed no hesitation as he nodded repeatedly:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Good poem, good poem!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"It is insufficient to express even a ten-thousandth of Father's martial achievements.\" Wanyan Liang turned back and replied earnestly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Give my son a seat.\" Zhao Jiu directly reached out and pointed at him.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The group immediately added a table and seat after Yue Fei and the various princes. Wanyan Liang, overjoyed, thanked him and sat down with great dignity.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then, Zhao Jiu looked back at the remaining two kneeling 'sons': \"And what of your literary skills?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The remaining two looked at each other. After a long while, Wanyan Yong carefully lowered his head and spoke: \"Let Father know, your son has the poorest literary skills among the three. Brother Liangbi is a child prodigy in the state, the most trusted direct disciple of Lord Xiyin during his lifetime, and even opened a Confucian school in Yanjing to teach others... Your son has only read through the Confucian classics.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu nodded and immediately looked at the other person.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Lieliangbi understood and quickly answered from the ground, trying to maintain a composed demeanor: \"Let Father know... your son is not skilled in poetry, but I can write some essays.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"No matter, each has their strengths.\" Zhao Jiu said dismissively. \"Then let's not talk about poetry and literature... Liangbi, if you were made the Jurchen ruler and governed the state, what would be the essential things you must do?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liangbi was slightly startled, then remembered the conversation Xiyin had by the Huangshui River. He answered seriously: \"To report to Father, if your son were to govern the state, the first priority would be to promote Song institutions, establish Confucian learning, and practice the Han language.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu seemed thoughtful, then looked at Wanyan Yong.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wanyan Yong also understood and answered nervously: \"Your son's first priority would be to let the people rest and recover, to avoid creating further incidents above and below. As for promoting Song institutions and establishing Confucian learning, that is a matter of course.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Father.\" Wanyan Liang, already seated, quickly spoke up. \"As my younger brother said, implementing Song institutions and establishing Confucian learning is a matter of course.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu nodded, then fell into silent contemplation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone in the hall, from Yue Fei on down, knew this ruler's frivolous temperament and feared he would make a decision on the spot. So they all held their breath, ready to witness the birth of the first ruler of the Jurchens after their defeat.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And once this ruler was chosen, it would mean the complete submission of the Jurchens, and also that this decade-long full-scale war would come to an end, even procedurally.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Zhao Jiu was truly hesitant.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wanyan Liang could compose a decent poem, but he was clearly a troublemaker. Coupled with the death of his parents and family by the Huangshui River, it was easy to see that behind his deliberate flattery and strenuous performance lay forbearance and restlessness. Once in power, he would likely stir up trouble both internally and externally.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu was certainly not afraid of this fellow causing trouble. In fact, given the current overall situation, no matter whether this fellow stirred trouble internally or externally, the Jurchens would ultimately have to pay the price.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>So if he wanted to further provoke internal strife among the Jurchens, choosing this man first would be fine.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Relatively speaking, Wanyan Yong's status and character seemed to be an important guarantee for the Jurchens' future stability and revival.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shi Lieliangbi was somewhere in between. His birth made it difficult for him to completely stabilize the interior, but his words and demeanor seemed to ensure he wouldn't cause trouble. Compared to the Wanyan brothers, he was indeed at a slight disadvantage.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, this surname itself was the greatest temptation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, the key point today was that these three had come to let him, Zhao Jiu, make the choice. Who was actually chosen was somewhat irrelevant... But precisely because it was irrelevant, Zhao Jiu hesitated for a moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The scene was not grand, like a rich family's son on a summer outing, but this was the Son of Heaven of China, this was the Zhao Song ruler who shot down the vulture and caught the deer! With a single word in an instant, he could decide the ruler of a nation!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In the midst of the silence, Wanyan Liang appeared calm and complacent on the surface, but inside he was already breathing heavily. On one hand, it was tension; on the other, it was that ridiculous thought he could not suppress no matter how hard he tried—I could take his place!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Besides revenge, I, Wanyan Liang, also want to become this kind of person, to establish an immortal achievement!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Just as everyone's thoughts were scattered, suddenly, a soft voice, daring the world's greatest offense, broke the silence and interrupted Zhao Jiu's contemplation.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Everyone looked up. Many did not recognize him, but many also knew who it was—the Prince of Liaoyang, the Commander of the Imperial Guard, the most trusted of Zhao Jiu's confidants, the former leader of the Red Heart Cavalry, Liu Yan.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, those who knew Liu Yan best found it somewhat unbelievable, because this man would never normally presume on his favor and forget his place. Speaking out at this moment was simply outrageous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Liu Yan truly did speak, and in front of everyone: \"Your Majesty... do you remember the oath made when 'the east wind blew open a thousand trees of blossoms'?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The east wind blew open a thousand trees of blossoms. And blew down stars like rain...\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Hebulai, a rough northern tribal chieftain, was of course completely bewildered, muddled and confused. But everyone else immediately understood what Liu Yan's quoted lyric referred to—Zong Ze, Zhongwu.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What oath did Zhao Jiu and Zong Zhongwu have? Liu Yan had likely returned specifically to remind him of this!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some had a slight realization and made the connection; many still did not understand.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But it didn't matter. Zhao Jiu clearly understood. Liu Yan's meaning was that if the Jurchen ruling line was changed, then the Great Jin state would be completely, truly, and without any loopholes, 'exterminated'.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Only then would Zhao Jiu have completely fulfilled the oath of that year.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Since choosing any one was fine, then he might as well choose the one that would leave his heart with no further burden.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>With this thought, the ruler nodded slightly, then casually pointed at Shi Lieliangbi:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This child has the aura of a king, so I grant him the surname Zhao and make him the ruler of the Jurchen state. The other two are also granted the surname Zhao; they shall go to the Eastern Capital to enter the Imperial Academy, and only return to Huining Prefecture after passing the metropolitan examinations.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Liangbi looked up in shock, unable to believe it for a moment, and only after a long while did he hastily thank His Majesty for the grace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Wanyan Yong, being somewhat younger, could only kowtow in confusion for a time. As for Wanyan Liang, his expression changed drastically on the spot. But soon, he quickly composed his face again and rose hastily.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Because at this moment, the entire courtyard was filled with northern heroes—the so-called princes, envoys, chieftains, civil and military officials—all stepped forward together, led by Prince Wei, Grand General Yue Fei, to offer congratulations publicly:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"We, your ministers, congratulate Your Majesty! The calamity of the Jurchens is thus pacified from now on! The shame of the Jingkang Incident is thus avenged from this day!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"That statement is only half right.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu, holding his daughter in one arm, raised the other to stop everyone. \"The shame of Jingkang can be somewhat avenged, but the calamity of the Jurchens may not be fully pacified, for this is merely a temporary display of military might, not a long-term strategy... However, I have here three imperial covenants. If they can be fully implemented, I do not expect to trade them for a thousand generations, but seeking a hundred years of peace is still possible! All of you, return to your seats and listen to these covenants!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd had already noted this matter earlier during the Goryeo affair, and now understanding, they bowed their heads again, then each returned to their places. Even the freshly minted Zhao Liangbi and Zhao Yong were given seats.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Then, as the Zhao Emperor waved his hand again, Lu Benzhong and Liu Yan placed the prepared covenant documents before some of the seated figures... Apart from one copy before Prince Wei Yue Fei, the rest were placed before the envoys of Western Liao, Dali, Vietnam, and Japan, as well as the various state rulers, grand marshals, chieftains, and envoys of the Khitan, Xi, Bohai, Mongol, and Goryeo.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, Zhao Liangbi, Zhao Yong, and Zhao Liang each had a copy before them as well.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Some of these people, literate and learned, immediately eagerly opened them to read. Others—specifically the Mongols apart from Hotuli—stared wide-eyed at each other, terrified and at a loss before the documents before them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And Zhao Jiu, disregarding his status, took the initiative to explain:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The first covenant is called the 'Covenant on the Unity of Chinese Politics and Culture.' Its content roughly concerns defining status, standardizing official positions, noble titles, and culture... For example, the first article states that I am the Son of Heaven of China and the Emperor of the Great Song, and all states are dependencies of China. Therefore, my rank is higher than that of the rulers of all states, and the national status of the Great Song is also higher than that of all dependent states. To give a detailed example: I am the Emperor, and I have enfeoffed my Grand Marshal as a Prince of the Blood, equal in princely rank to the rulers of your states. Song and Jin are a father-son relationship; Song and Goryeo, Eastern and Western Mongolia, Dali, and Vietnam are a ruler-minister relationship. The continuation of a king's line requires the enfeoffment of the Son of Heaven of China... Understand?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This is only natural and proper.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Except for the Western Liao envoy and the Japanese envoy, who remained silent for a time, the other state rulers and envoys showed a somewhat listless and bewildered demeanor. Kim In-chon took the initiative to chime in: \"Even if Your Majesty had not spoken, we dependent states would still strictly observe the ruler-minister distinction.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for Kim Bu-sik, being one of the few politicians, diplomats, and historians present, he fell into thoughtful contemplation for a moment.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Not speaking and speaking are different, let alone setting it down in writing as a covenant.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu snorted dismissively. \"It must be an imperial covenant... First, 'imperial decree' to rectify the legitimate lineage; second, 'covenant'—if anyone violates it, they are betraying their lord and breaking faith, and the world will jointly punish them!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd dared not be negligent and immediately responded in assent.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Western Liao envoy also dared not be negligent and took the initiative to speak: \"Your Majesty, what about our Great Liao? What are the regulations for the Khitan Autonomous Route?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The Great Liao has fallen, resulting in two divisions. Western Liao is its legitimate successor, and moreover, half of its territory lies outside the boundaries of the Nine Provinces of China. It is specially permitted to be a brotherly state with Song, to call its ruler Emperor, and its national status is higher than that of other dependent states... But although Western Liao has an Emperor, it only possesses the Western Regions of China, has no share in the title of Son of Heaven of China, and has no right to interfere in the various dependent states of China.\" Zhao Jiu was, of course, well-prepared. \"The Son of Heaven of China can only be the Emperor of the Great Song, and only the Son of Heaven of China can regulate the various dependent states of China.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Western Liao envoy nodded repeatedly, relieved that the Zhao Emperor did not intend to use this great victory to revise the Jinhe Alliance and force Western Liao to lower its national status.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"As for the Khitan Autonomous Route.\" Zhao Jiu then pointed to Yelu Yudu. \"It is a route under the Great Song. However, in consideration of the former friendship between Song and Liao, the surviving Khitan and Xi tribes of the former Great Liao are properly settled here. General Yelu is specially granted the rank of Commandery Prince, permitted within the enfeoffment of the covenant to manage internal affairs autonomously... but without autonomy in foreign relations or military affairs.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Western Liao envoy hesitated for a moment, but soon, as Yelu Yudu took the initiative to lead the various Khitan tribal chieftains and the five Xiao chieftains of the Xi tribe in rising to bow and thank the Zhao Emperor for his grace, this envoy, also surnamed Yelu, could only remain silent in the end.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu then looked toward Taira no Tadamori, who had been growing uneasy. The latter, through the translation of his son Taira no Kiyomori and his former colleague Minamoto no Tameyoshi, already understood what was happening.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>However, the Zhao Emperor remained calm and restrained: \"Minister Taira, rest assured. I know that Japan, living alone overseas, has its own special national circumstances, and I have no intention of forcing Japan to accept this... You three only need to look at these covenants to have a general idea. Only the second covenant on trade and navigation is worth some detailed consideration. After this matter is concluded, you can make a report when you return to Japan.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>While Taira no Tadamori was still bewildered, Taira no Kiyomori and Minamoto no Tameyoshi hastily kowtowed to thank His Majesty for his grace.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the Zhao Emperor had specifically explained these two special cases, Lu Benzhong immediately stepped forward and began to explain the text to Khabul and the others.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It turned out that this covenant not only clarified the national status of each state but also established a common system for noble titles and official ranks... For example, among princely ranks, a Prince of the Blood was equal to a King, a Commandery Prince was equal to a Crown Prince of a kingdom, and below Commandery Prince were the Zhou-dynasty divisions of Duke, Marquis, Earl, Viscount, and Baron.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It specified how identities were to be connected and treatment standardized within each signatory state, between them, and with the Great Song, and so forth.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And when it came to the standardization of noble titles, Lu Benzhong pulled out another supplementary text. At this point, the crowd finally thought they had grasped something more critical—it turned out that the Zhao Emperor, besides designating the kings of the various states, had also directly designated some Dukes and Earls.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Kim Bu-sik was designated a Duke; the six major Jurchen tribal chieftains were all granted hereditary Dukedoms; within the Khitan Autonomous Route, the major Khitan tribes and the five Xiao clans of the Xi people were all granted hereditary Earldoms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The situation with the Mongols was more complicated.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>For instance, Khabul Khan of Eastern Mongolia was naturally a King; his brother, Ambaghai, who controlled the Tayichiud tribe, and the chieftain of the Merkit tribe were granted hereditary Dukedoms, while the smaller tribes were granted hereditary Earldoms.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the Bohai people, they were given a choice. If they were willing to move north and establish an autonomous route between the northern Changbai Mountains and Lake Khanka, several major clans could receive hereditary Earldoms and could elect one Duke. But if they remained in the heartland of Liaodong, they would only receive Earldoms to designate their tribes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Frankly speaking, Zhao Jiu had hesitated for a time about whether to immediately introduce this sensitive supplementary text on title designations. But interestingly, he had still underestimated the loose governance model of the northern frontier region at the time and overestimated these people's understanding of political systems.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>There was not no controversy. For example, several Mongol tribes were trying hard to prove they deserved a 'Dukedom' rather than an Earldom. Even Khabul himself grew somewhat uneasy, because the Mongols had the concept of 'Ulus.' Relying on the primitive democratic thinking of traditional tribal alliances, he thought it was fine to grant a Dukedom to the enemy Merkit tribe, but the Jadaran tribe, though not currently strong, had a long history and should also be given a Dukedom.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To these concerns, Zhao Jiu naturally followed good advice.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>After the noisy discussion on the supplementary title text passed, and Lu Benzhong's explanation moved on to defining national capitals and establishing national embassies according to rank, Khabul again spoke up, somewhat awkwardly, pointing out that Eastern Mongolia, unlike Western Mongolia, did not have a large city built by the Liao state; they were still nomads, moving with water and grass.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To this, Zhao Jiu remained accommodating, stating that he would send prisoners of war to build a similar city for Eastern Mongolia at a central location.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>He was generous to an extreme degree.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In summary, the first covenant, about ten articles in total, was essentially meant to define a concept of 'China' that went beyond the scope of the Great Song, simultaneously encompassing the Western Regions under Western Liao, and including the Great Song, Goryeo, Vietnam, Dali, Mongolia, and the Jurchens, establishing a common basic political framework... And because China had long possessed a Celestial Empire tributary system, this framework did not provoke much opposition or confusion.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Many people, even up to this point, simply thought the Zhao Emperor was using this great victory to re-establish the tributary system that had existed since ancient times.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Interestingly, however, looking solely at the first covenant, it did not directly mention the most basic elements of the tributary system. Instead, it emphasized that everyone belonged to China, and that the Great Song Emperor was also the Son of Heaven of China.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The only thing worth noting was that supplementary text on designating titles, which seemed to have the intent of weakening certain states and creating a balance. But Goryeo and the Jurchens dared not resist, Yelu Yudu of the Khitan Autonomous Route had nothing to say, and to the Mongols, this thing seemed instead to strengthen centralization.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As for the vague provisions about making Chinese speech the common language, Chinese characters the common official script, unifying the calendar and weights and measures, promoting Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism, and using the original learning for the metropolitan examinations—to most people, these were like farting through silk, an unnecessary redundancy.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>In this day and age, could they make everyone learn English? Even the 'original learning' was just the Zhao Emperor's personal adaptation of Confucianism.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, there were still clever people. Kim Bu-sik was sensitive to the political concept that the Son of Heaven of China had the authority to govern all states... As a rare national historian of this era, he had been trying to clarify the continuity of Goryeo's state lineage, attempting to use the Three Kingdoms period (Goguryeo, Silla, Baekje) of the Sui and Tang dynasties to give Goryeo a national and ethnic conceptual definition... So now he was naturally somewhat uneasy and fearful.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But again, the Zhao Emperor's prestige was now overwhelming, and he played with the cosmos. He could do things like making the Jurchen ruler choose among three options, and Yue Fei's army was right there in Liaoyang, keeping a tight watch on Goryeo's main forces. Who could oppose him?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>If you wanted to oppose, first oppose your own Goryeo Western Capital Dukedom?!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And so, after some commotion, the first covenant was generally discussed and passed without major issue, and the second covenant formally appeared—this was the \"Covenant on Friendly Trade and Navigation\" between the Great Song and the various states.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It contained thirty articles, all filled with things that baffled those present: maintaining friendly relations between states, commercial freedom, protection and recognition for travelers and migrants doing business in each other's territories.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Each of the thirty articles even had three or four sub-articles. The text was ten times longer than the first covenant, detailed and even verbose to the point of minutely explaining what to do about property inheritance when a national of one country died in another country—trivial matters like that.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Not to mention people like Khabul, who had almost given up, even someone like Kim Bu-sik felt his scalp go numb again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And looking it over, whether it was an illusion or not, what shocked people like Kim Bu-sik was that this was truly an equal treaty... All clauses were mutual commitments, completely different from the previous covenant with its talk of father-son states, ruler-minister national status, and how the Song's Prince of Qin or Prince Wei were on the same level as their kings. Kim Bu-sik couldn't even find a single sentence with the Great Song as the sole subject.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>It was equal to an unbelievable degree.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Of course, Kim Bu-sik truly was the elite of his nation in this era. Throwing down the covenant, he recalled the earlier matter of the Great Song government dumping porcelain into Goryeo, and seemed to have a flash of realization.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your Majesty.\" Kim Bu-sik cautiously inquired of the Zhao Emperor, who was holding his daughter. \"This covenant only stipulates that mutual tariffs must be the lowest among all states, but it does not establish that tariffs between the two countries must be equal and reciprocal, does it?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Correct.\" Zhao Jiu immediately understood what the other was thinking and smiled in response. \"Grand Marshal Kim, rest assured. There is no forced buying or selling, no coercion for tax exemption... Everything is fair trade. If you think there is too much porcelain and don't want to buy it, then don't buy it.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Shut up right from the start, even Kim Bu-sik was somewhat dazed, feeling that the Zhao Emperor was far too generous.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"The essence of this treaty is that I do not want tribute or rewards, only fair trade among the people, with all states circulating freely as one.\" Zhao Jiu continued to explain. \"This is what is called the Great Unity, and it has long been my wish! It is also the reflection after the war! Think back then—if the Jurchens had been able to freely sell their eastern pearls and sea eagles without being oppressed by the Khitans, why would they have raised an army to rebel against Liao?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The Zhao sovereign, holding his daughter, spoke with conviction above, while those below, like Jin Fushi, only felt dazed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>To be fair, if he hadn't personally witnessed the Great Jin being reduced to its current state by the sovereign before him, Zhao Liang would almost have believed the other's nonsense.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>But Zhao Liang, who truly understood Chinese characters, lowered his head to look again, turning the text over and over, yet could only see the word 'fairness' between the lines!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Fairness! Fairness!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Still fairness!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>What a ghostly business!\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If there are no objections, aside from Japan, all states including Western Liao must sign this treaty with the Great Song!\" Zhao Jiu decisively struck the table. \"Like the previous treaty, the northern states and tribes will sign now; Dali and Vietnam will take it back to sign.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The assembled northern heroes looked at one another, truly unable to find a reason to refuse, yet still unable to suppress their full hearts of doubt and fear.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Finally, it was Jin Fushi who suddenly thought of a question: \"Your Majesty, if a servant from our country flees to Song, can he no longer be regarded as a servant?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu answered fluently. \"Look at the supplement to Article 26, Subsection 3—it already addresses this matter... When a criminal enters a country, both states shall follow the law, taking the other's national law as the standard... For example, Goryeo keeps slaves. Our country plans to explicitly abolish slavery within the next two years. When that time comes, if a runaway slave enters our territory, once they cross the border, they will be regarded as a free citizen, and we will certainly not arrest them! If you want to arrest them, you must work hard within your own borders!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having found one flaw, the assembled guests felt somewhat relieved, though no one knew who had spoiled them.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"What about rebellion...\" Jin Fushi asked cautiously again.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"If Goryeo considers someone a rebel, but I do not, then it is Goryeo that is rebelling.\" Zhao Jiu replied coldly.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi was momentarily speechless, having nothing to say in response.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And seeing that he had blocked the mouth of the cleverest man, the Zhao sovereign could not help but look around the room and lecture the crowd: \"Don't you know what the first treaty meant? Wasn't it to unify Chinese politics, culture, and institutions? Not to mention rebellion—things like keeping slaves, anyone who has read books should know it is a shameless practice... That treaty itself was meant to make you all lean toward the advanced systems of the Great Song! 'Ten thousand miles of chariots and writing unified as one'—my son Zhao Liang understood it when he was barely older than a child, and you don't?!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The crowd repeatedly voiced their agreement, but in their hearts, most were unconvinced—how could it be that easy?\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And just then, the new Jurchen ruler, Zhao Liangbi, felt a stir in his heart and took the opportunity to ask a question: \"Father Emperor... I presume to ask, since you speak of entering borders, there must be national boundaries. May I ask how Father Emperor has decided to demarcate the borders?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"This is precisely the matter of the third treaty.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu put down his daughter, then pointed at the corner of the table with his finger from his seat. \"I have labored for ten years to achieve this victory. Now that the Jurchens have submitted, to prevent future turmoil, all northern states and tribes must form a unified alliance, swear an oath, and agree never to wage war against each other. In the future, they shall only garrison for me, garrison for China! And to make this happen, we must naturally demarcate the borders of the states, designate the pasturing grounds of the tribes! We must even set troop quotas and garrison zones! On this matter, no one should negotiate terms with me! And whoever disobeys will be jointly attacked by the entire northern frontier!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>As he spoke, the Zhao sovereign's gaze swept over the crowd, and indeed, no one dared to meet his eyes.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"I dare not.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Liangbi, the first to bear the brunt, quickly rose and bowed. \"It is only that the Jurchens have committed heinous crimes, so I presumptuously ask only that Father Emperor first issue a clear decree... In the future, what will be the Jurchen state name? How many troops may be kept? Where will the territory lie? I dare not disobey!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Huanglong Prefecture will be taken back under direct control of the Great Song. Roughly, the Jurchens will be allowed to retain the original scope of the Supreme Capital Circuit. As for the specific borders, Marshal Yue will escort you back to your state and then demarcate them. As for how many troops to retain, Marshal Yue will also submit a memorial to me afterward.\" Zhao Jiu replied calmly. \"As for the state name, I suddenly have an idea... Change it to Qing! The Qing State! Be a clean and clear state!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Yue Fei immediately rose and bowed.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Liangbi also bowed again, but could not help asking further: \"Is the Prince of Wei to escort me back to my state?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Correct.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu answered frankly. \"Not only to set the borders and proclaim the treaty, but also to capture the escaped bandits like Wanyan Yinshu and Wanyan Talan together, to completely settle the old grievances of the Jingkang Incident between our two states... And Yelu Ma Wu, since he is unwilling to surrender, he should die. Does he truly think I have forgotten the matter of Nanyang?\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Liangbi's heart turned cold, but he could only move to the center of the open space, kneel, and kowtow in assent. Yelu Yudu also quickly responded. Zhao Liang, 'overjoyed,' hastily stepped out of the line to give thanks.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Earlier, the Jin Marshal mentioned something about Bozhou?\" Zhao Jiu, unconcerned with Zhao Liang's performance, looked back at Jin Fushi.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Yes.\" Jin Fushi quickly rose. \"Bozhou was originally the homeland of Goryeo...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Don't come to me about this matter.\" Zhao Jiu pointed at Yue Fei again. \"For specific demarcation, Marshal Yue and Ambassador Liu will take the lead. If there is any uncertainty, it can be submitted to Grand Councilor Lü Yihao for judgment... The matter of a single prefecture or city is not what should be discussed here today! You only need to say whether you are dissatisfied with the three treaties, whether you refuse to accept them, or whether there is anyone who is not prepared to sign! Marshal Jin? You start!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>The sea breeze blew in gusts. Jin Fushi stood still, took several deep breaths, and finally nodded: \"The foreign minister believes that Goryeo has no reason not to sign these three treaties. However, I am only a marshal, not the ruler of the state...\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>\"Your agreement is enough. Sign and affix your seal first, then take it back for Wang Kai to add his.\" Zhao Jiu waved dismissively. \"If Wang Kai is unwilling, I will follow the precedent of the Qing State and make a replacement!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Jin Fushi was stunned for a moment before realizing what 'Qing State' referred to. Meanwhile, Jin Rencun tremblingly stood up and replied cautiously: \"Your Majesty, rest assured, our ruler will certainly be willing to sign.\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu nodded slightly, then looked around at the others. Finally, he leaned back slightly, tapped the table with his fingers, and said with a sincere smile: \"Not signing is not an option! If even one state refuses to sign, then my ten years of effort will not be complete... So whichever state refuses to sign, that state will face destruction and extinction! I have gathered you all here today not to negotiate with anyone! That is all!\"\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Having said this, the sovereign finally rose, picked up his daughter from one side, and turned toward the rear courtyard of the temple.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>By the afternoon, Lü Benzhong found the Zhao sovereign in front of the famous octagonal well at the Dalonggong Temple, holding a plate of milk cake and eating. He then earnestly reported that all the northern states and tribes had signed. Western Liao, Dali, and Vietnam had requested to take the treaty back to their countries for submission. As for Japan, Taira no Tadamasa was also willing to carry the treaty back and explain it slightly to the Cloistered Emperor.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu nodded, but then stared blankly at the well mouth before him... Lü Benzhong and Liu Yan did not dare to make a sound either.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>And at that moment, the sea breeze grew stronger, waves soared into the sky, and suddenly there was the appearance of a summer downpour.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Zhao Jiu snapped back to reality, lost in thought.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>PS: Thanks to the new patrons, Li Yunlong is Zhong Laosi and Dunxing de Yaoshi, the 228th and 229th patrons of this book. Also thanks to classmates Mr. Alan and slyshen for another patron.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003Cp>Continue to offer up a book, \"My Secretary is a Fox Spirit\"—a story of a muscular brute and a domineering CEO exorcising demons, while flirting with his little secretary on the side.\u003C\u002Fp>",10688,"2026-06-06T07:46:32.508Z",1,"Novelzhen Translator","0392ce16dcddf94d7f826cf8bac1b8be66ff120458832ab14ab0771fea2822e2","shao-song-chapter-446","shao-song-chapter-444",489,"https:\u002F\u002Fnovelzhen.com\u002Fimages\u002Fcovers\u002Fshao-song-cover.jpg"]