Now that he had decided to send out troops, the next step was to choose who would go.
He had to ensure his own safety on this outing, while also making sure no damned nonsense happened in Chaoge. After all, without him keeping the court in check, the ministers under him could easily start pulling all sorts of tricks to build their reputations.
Zi Shou called Shang Rong forward and asked, "Old Chancellor, I intend to lead the troops west myself to probe the situation. How should we select the civil and military officials who will accompany the army?"
Shang Rong froze. He had not expected King Zhou to want to lead the troops himself, but on second thought, this was a good thing.
After all, he would not be leading them into battle, so it was quite safe. With King Zhou there in person, morale would be higher, the training would be more effective, and the new army's cohesion would improve as well.
Shang Rong pondered for a moment, then said, "We know nothing of how the war between Xiqi and West Qiang is progressing. But one thing is certain: even if Your Majesty goes in person, Xiqi will not dare act rashly. More likely, Ji Fa will march straight home after winning.
"In that case, Your Majesty can first station the troops along Xiqi's border, forming a mutually supporting position with Commandery Governor Jiang Wenhuan of Li Commandery. Advancing would put pressure on Xiqi's army; falling back would allow you to gather intelligence or disrupt their provisions and supply trains."
"Since Your Majesty's main objective is not to kill the enemy, and the army's fighting strength is limited, there is no need to send a senior general along. General Lu can remain in Chaoge to guard against the