At the end of the leap month, when the Han Empire was about to usher in the second year of Kaibao, Cao Yuangong, the envoy of the Returned Army, finally arrived in Tokyo after a twists and turns on his eastward journey.
Fortunately, after passing through Liangzhou, with the care of the local government, the journey went very smoothly, and there was no more panic like before entering the country. As for the hard work of traveling in winter, after experiencing the hardships and having perfect protection, it was nothing.
Already.
Today's domestic security situation in the Han Dynasty is still worthy of recognition. When the spirit of Kaibao's policy program was publicized through the Department of Propaganda and Welfare and officials at all levels, and after this year's initial experience of substantial benefits, the public sentiment was overjoyed.
Sweet rain, and the northern states that have been cultivated for many years can also be described as people's attachment.
For the arrival of Cao Yuangong, the imperial court gave extremely high courtesy from top to bottom and treated him as an honored guest. Not only were all the reception matters thorough and proper, but Prince Liu Yang was also asked to receive him in person. At the same time, Emperor Liu also personally
A banquet was held in the Long Live Hall, accompanied by all the ministers.
The courtesy was astonishing. Even Cao Yuangong himself was extremely flattered and even couldn't believe it. Over the years, the Guiyi Army sent envoys to the court not once or twice, but through the narration of the envoys' return, it was clear that although the court was polite
From the moment you enter the country, from the center to the local area, from top to bottom, the attitude of the court is as comfortable as the spring breeze.
Of course, this will not be for no reason. Cao Yuangong is not a fool. After thinking about it, it probably has something to do with his purpose of coming here. In fact, it is exactly the same. This time, because he understands his intention of surrendering his land,
, the courtly treatment given by the imperial court was far more than before, almost equivalent to the treatment given to Qian Hongchu, the king of Wuyue, when he went north several times.
As for the importance Chen Hongjin came to offer Zhangzhou and springs, the importance he received cannot be compared with this. In terms of household registration and wealth, five or six melons are difficult to compare with Tongzhangquan, but they cannot offset the importance of its geographical location.
In addition, Emperor Liu had always been thinking about the general strategy of advancing westward, and he recognized the achievements of the Guiyi Army in guarding Hexi for a long time. Due to various factors and the will of the emperor, he had such a reaction. This is also of political significance.
, greater than other performances.
After figuring this out, Cao Yuangong couldn't help but feel relieved. This situation proved that the imperial court really valued the Guiyi Army. This was a good signal for both the Guiyi Army and the Cao family.
After all, even if you want to sell your body, you have to sell it for a good price. The attitude of the buyer often determines the final transaction price.
In the Long Live Hall, there is a harmonious atmosphere. The cold outside cannot affect the atmosphere inside the hall at all. The emperor and his ministers are all wearing crown attire, enjoying the palace delicacies with Cao Yuangong. Emperor Liu also specially pulled out the ritual and music team.
Performance.
An Ran was sitting there, looking at Cao Yuangong, who had a gentle and humble attitude. Emperor Liu also had a smile on his face and personally persuaded him to drink: "Cao Qing, this is a fine Fenjiu that has been treasured in the palace for many years. I would not part with it on ordinary occasions."
Take it out, you will have to drink a few more glasses when you come to court for the first time!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Cao Yuangong did not dare to neglect, and stood up quickly, leaning on his body, and drank the wine in one gulp with Emperor Han.
Carefully sizing up the Emperor of the Han Dynasty, his eyes turned from the prince to the ministers. Cao Yuangong seemed to have a lot of emotion on his face, and his heart was filled with emotion. He said to Emperor Liu: "What merits do I have? What can I do?" Your Majesty shows you such kindness and courtesy, I, I, I am so grateful..."
The excitement seemed difficult to express in words. As he spoke, Cao Yuangong actually squeezed out a few tears, but it created a somewhat touching atmosphere.
"Eh..." Upon seeing this, Liu Chengyou still had a relaxed expression. He waved his hand to him and comforted him: "You are a minister of the Han Dynasty, and you are also an honored guest from afar. I should take care of you and make your guests feel like home. Otherwise, wouldn’t it be rude?”
"Your Majesty is the true saint and benevolent king. No wonder all the people from all over the world are vying to be loyal and loyal to you!" Cao Yuangong said immediately.
Emperor Liu was basically immune to this kind of flattery, but when he heard what he said, he couldn't help but laugh. How could he have boasted like this...
Looking at Cao Yuangong, Emperor Liu expressed emotion and said: "I have heard about the Helong incident many times since I came to the throne. For this purpose, I specifically checked the records and sent envoys westward, just to understand the hometown of Hexi. The public sentiment and situation. I also know a lot about the deeds of the Guiyi Army. I feel that they are both respectable and worthy, but also a pity.
Recovering the northwest, holding on for a hundred years, giving the Hexi survivors a place to live, and maintaining the etiquette and customs of our Han family. These are all great contributions to our great country, China!
In the early years, when the kingdoms were divided and the world was divided, I and the imperial court focused mainly on unification. Now that the great cause is accomplished, I can free up my hands to focus on the northwest. This can be regarded as compensation for the neglect of the old ministers in Hexi for many years, and makes up for the regrets caused for many years. ....."
"Your Majesty's mind is as wide as the quicksand, and it cannot reach it. If the entire Guiyi Army and the people of Guasha hear your Majesty's words, they will definitely feel deeply!" After hearing this, Cao Yuangong said.
With that said, Cao Yuangong stood up again and walked to the palace. Under the gaze of everyone, he took out a very cherished memorial from his arms, bowed down and held it on his head, saying: "Your Majesty cares about the survivors in Hexi. It is really a great blessing for Guasha. I have come here this time, specifically by the order of Duke Xiping, to present the form enclosed and return it to the imperial court. I hope that your majesty will show you mercy, as requested by the army and people of Naguasha!"
Everyone present knew the purpose of Cao Yuangong's visit, so there was not much surprise in his actions. With just a wink, the eunuch Yantuo stepped forward, took it solemnly, and then presented it to Emperor Liu respectfully.
Opening Cao Yuanzhong's memorial, Emperor Liu read it carefully to show his attention. He recalled the past with more than a thousand words, commented on the rise and fall of the rebel army, and also talked about Cao's governance in the past fifty years. Explain the current situation faced by the Guiyi Army, as well as the situation of the military and civilians, and finally express the intention to surrender.
There are not many gorgeous words, but it has a beginning and an end, a clear theme, and clear expression. From it, Emperor Liu can even feel Cao Yuanzhong's complicated mood when he wrote this memorial.
Putting down the document, Emperor Liu's majestic face showed a gentle smile again, stretched out his hand towards Cao Yuangong, and said: "Cao Qing, please be safe!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
After thinking for a while, Liu Chengyou said calmly: "Cao's move is a great act of justice. I am very relieved to see the people of the city come back. It's just a matter of Gua Sha, not a matter of one army and two cities. It involves the entire situation in Hexi. , the court should also consider the overall situation..."
Hearing what Emperor Liu said, Cao Yuangong's heart skipped a beat, and he immediately bowed again, looking a little excited and saying: "Does it mean that Your Majesty doesn't want to accept the soldiers and people of Hexi?"
"The people of Hexi are also my people, how can we abandon them?" Emperor Liu said with certainty.
"Then why did Your Majesty hesitate?" Cao Yuangong seemed a little puzzled.
On the side, Prime Minister Wei Renpu spoke: "Don't be suspicious, Lord Cao. Your Majesty and the court will naturally welcome the return of the Yiyi Army to the court. It's just a matter of Hexi. The court has its own policies and needs to obey the overall situation.
The disasters that envoys suffered when they came east this time have proven that the situation in Hexi is not stable. Therefore, how to implement the timing of return requires a safe and comprehensive method. Please be patient for the time being..."
Hearing Wei Renpu's explanation, Cao Yuangong suddenly understood, and then he apologized: "I am anxious, your majesty, please forgive me!"
"It's not easy for you to come from afar. It's understandable that you feel like this!" Emperor Liu looked smiling.
Then, he looked at Wei Renpu and ordered: "Wei Qing, the Cao family has been guarding Guasha for fifty years. They have guarded the land and protected the people. They have worked hard and achieved great results. Now that they are back, I am both happy and grateful. The court must not neglect it. After surrendering, the Cao family will After the banquet, the political hall can discuss the terms of the reward and placement..."
"yes!"
These words were obviously meant for Cao Yuangong. When Cao Yuangong heard this, a smile finally appeared on his face. After talking so much, this is the most important thing.