A resounding victory in the western campaign to crush the rebellion!
In Bianjing, people raced about spreading the news, and every household was full of smiles.
At the Imperial Court, the military officers were positively beaming!
Di Qing had also distinguished himself greatly in the campaign and formally entered the Imperial Court. Cao Qi kept him close, clearly intending to groom him as his successor.
A new faction built on military merit was taking shape.
Great Song entered the Qingli era.
The third year of Qingli.
Hangzhou.
"Have you heard? The Chancellors in Bianjing have issued new laws. They say they're going to put the local bigwigs properly in their place!"
"Bah!"
"I heard ages ago. If you ask me, it won't work!"
"It won't?"
"It won't!"
Several people were discussing the new policies in a restaurant.
None of them looked like ordinary commoners; they had some learning under their belts.
"Brother Qian, why won't it work? Tell us your reasoning."
The others at his table asked curiously.
Young Master Qian sighed and said, "Throughout all the dynasties, when has changing laws and revising policies ever been anything but life-threatening work? Do the Chancellors at the Imperial Court have that kind of courage? I don't think so. Those local bigwigs have roots sunk deep into the ground!"
"And besides..."
"His Majesty is benevolent, but does he have the resolve?"
He lowered his voice for that last sentence, lest anyone else overhear.
Hearing this, the others nodded too.
"That makes sense!"
"Brother Qian, your insight is truly penetrating."
The scholars chatted, each chiming in.
At the next table, a woman sat quietly, sipping tea and gazing out the window at West Lake's winter scenery.
There was no denying it: history really did repeat itself.
The Qingli New Policies had appeared