The Cold Door Hero

Summary

After the battle in He Dong, Li Yan Qing focused on reassuring the local populace and managing the officials who surrendered to the Jin army, ensuring accountability based on public opinion. He executed 13 officials and dismissed 34 others for their roles during the conflict, replacing them with military and civil officials. In mid-April, he transferred command to newly appointed officials and returned to Jingzhao with his troops, receiving a heartfelt farewell from the citizens of Taiyuan. Li Yan Qing offered advice to the new Governor, emphasizing caution with the Jin, the importance of defending Jingxing Pass, and relying on the local populace for resistance. In August of the second year of Jianyan, a five-year ceasefire was reached between the Song and Jin states, with both sides maintaining territorial claims and agreeing to specific terms regarding captured individuals. The Song Dynasty began recuperating while the Jin focused on tribal control in Mo Bei. In September, the retired Emperor Zhao Ji and the Deceased Emperor Zhao Huan returned to Jiangning, where they were warmly welcomed by officials. Zhao Ji expressed grievances about the absence of trusted officials, his son’s lack of a personal welcome, and Li Yan Qing's new title. Despite these grievances, he resolved to take charge of the situation.

Full content