Core of the Sage.

Summary

Du Yu had captured Cao Pi and Jiang Xiao Bai, along with four hundred thousand prisoners of war. However, he chose not to exchange them immediately, observing the attitudes of various nations. He believed that if the Great Tang showed generosity and returned the prisoners unconditionally, they would hold the moral high ground. But the court, filled with shortsighted individuals, forced both countries to cede land and pay reparations, offending them and leading to immense pressure on the borders. Du Yu decided to leave the Northern Expedition Army, but the soldiers were emotional, worrying about their future without him. He reassured them that his departure would make the court regard them as their own, and that he would return if they needed him. Du Yu handed over a poem to Pei Shi Er, predicting that he would be appointed as the deputy commander, and gave him an object as a protective charm. Du Yu then departed, singing with his wives, and believed that the court wouldn't plot against him as long as there were strong external enemies surrounding the Great Tang.

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