In the Imperial Study, Li Chen was discussing northern military affairs with Chancellor Zhao Wenyuan and Grand General Guo Poyun.
Guo Poyun spoke first, the battle-hardened veteran's voice ringing like a bell. "Your Majesty, the Great Luo Dynasty's border troops have repeatedly provoked us of late. What began as fistfights between soldiers has now escalated into armed clashes between officers. I recommend launching the Northern Expedition at once. It would be the perfect opportunity for the Northern Tribes that have pledged allegiance to us to win merit!"
Before he had finished, Zhao Wenyuan stepped forward with a frown. "I believe that would be ill-advised."
The old chancellor, his hair and beard graying, stroked his long beard. "Luo Hou, the emperor of Daluo, has always been cautious. His armies lose every advantage once they leave the northern snowfields. There must be something suspicious behind this. Someone may be deliberately stirring up trouble."
Guo Poyun's thick brows shot up. "You are mistaken, Chancellor Zhao! How can we stand idly by while our border troops suffer humiliation? Those Northern Tribes are brave and skilled in battle, and they are all clamoring to fight. This is the ideal moment to deploy our forces!"
Uncharacteristically, Zhao Wenyuan stood firm. "You are mistaken, General Guo! Mobilizing troops burdens the people and drains the treasury. To unleash the weapons of war over a few minor incidents is hardly the conduct of a wise ruler!"
Li Chen quietly listened to his two senior ministers argue, a glimmer of contemplation passing through his deep eyes.
The Great Luo Dynasty and Heavenly Strategy had never had any dealings with each other. After all, the Snow Eagle Court lay between them.
Their sudden troublemaking at the border was indeed suspicious.
Charging rashly into war might play straight into someone's hands, but