Generals of the Great Song Dynasty.

Summary

The chapter describes a meeting led by Zhao Shu, attended by high-ranking officials and imperial relatives to finalize preparations for the emperor's birthday ceremony. The atmosphere is tense yet excited as they discuss the ceremony's structure, emphasizing the need for brevity due to the emperor's declining health. Jia Chang Chao outlines the order of attendees, while Zhao Shu suggests simplifying the ceremony to avoid overexertion for the emperor. The officials agree to limit the time for speeches and consolidate them. However, tension arises over the Western Xia envoys' demands to take the lead in paying respects, which some officials oppose due to their previous defeat. A debate ensues, with differing opinions on whether to negotiate or assert dominance over Western Xia. Wang Ning An proposes a strategy to leverage the situation, suggesting that the Western Xia's eagerness indicates their insecurity. As the ceremony day arrives, the atmosphere is festive, and the emperor appears in high spirits. During the ceremony, the envoys from various countries are called to pay their respects. Unexpectedly, the command to kneel is issued, catching the Western Xia envoy off guard, leading to a moment of humiliation.

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