Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

Zhao Shu was about to depart when the Intelligence Bureau delivered a message that infuriated Zhao Zhen. The message revealed Yu Canghua's plan to surrender Lingzhou to the court, prompting imperial envoys Tan Xian and Gao Zun Yu to mobilize troops without proper authorization. They aimed to seize military credit for themselves, believing that capturing Lingzhou would secure a significant victory in the Song-Xia War. Zhao Zhen was furious at the audacity of Tan Xian and Gao Zun Yu for acting behind his back. He realized his mistake in granting envoys decision-making power without consulting Wang Ning An, the Supreme Commander. Meanwhile, Wang Ning An sent a report confirming that the envoys had acted deceitfully and that Yu Canghua's surrender might be a ruse. He emphasized the risks of rash troop movements and outlined his plans to recall the troops and investigate the situation. Zhao Zhen, filled with shame for his oversight, expressed his regret to his son Zhao Shu, who reminded him that everyone makes mistakes and the importance of learning from them. The next day, Zhao Shu and Prince Zhao Yun Bi departed for the Northwest, signaling a potential alliance between Zhao Zhen and Wang Ning An. In the capital, various officials speculated on the implications of the Crown Prince's journey, with some believing it indicated Zhao Zhen's submission to Wang Ning An. Fo Yin, sensing the precarious situation, worried about the consequences of offending both the Emperor and Wang Ning An, while Zhao Shi Mai expressed his frustrations about the perceived loss of imperial authority. Ultimately, Fo Yin regretted his past associations and foresaw potential chaos arising from the situation.

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