He Jin's words stirred an immediate uproar in the court.
Granting the title of Marquis of Champion was no trivial matter.
Zhang Xin had indeed rendered great service—but was he worthy of such a title?
Since the founding of the Han, only a handful had ever borne that name.
The first, of course, was Huo Qubing—a legendary figure whose northern campaigns set the very standard for the title.
The second was Jia Fu, one of the famed Yuntai Twenty-Eight Generals.
The third was Dou Xian, who defeated the Northern Xiongnu and carved his achievements into Yanran Mountain.
As for the fourth—Wang Fu—his title was widely seen as dishonorable, gained through intrigue rather than merit.
How could Zhang Xin possibly be compared to the first three?
And surely he would not wish to be compared to the fourth.
Minister Xu Xiang stepped forward at once.
"General, your proposal is inappropriate."
"Though Zhang Xin has indeed brought glory to the Han, to place him alongside Huo Qubing and Dou Xian based on a single campaign—is that not excessive?"
He continued coldly:
"Huangfu Song, born into a military family, has long served on the frontier and suppressed the Yellow Turban Rebellion—yet he is only a township marquis."
"Dong Zhuo has fought for over twenty years, and even now holds but the rank of township marquis."
"Zhang Xin is but seventeen, of low origin, and newly risen. How can he surpass them?"
Many officials nodded in agreement.
It was difficult to accept that a former rebel, barely of age, could leap so high in rank.
He Jin, seeing the opposition, merely smiled.
"Oh? Then what does the Minister of Works propose?"
His earlier suggestion had never been serious—it was a gesture, made in Tian Kai's presence.
A favor offered… whether accepted or not.
Xu Xiang ignored him and addressed the throne directly.
"Your Majesty, I believe a township marquis is sufficient."
Before Liu Hong could respond, Liu Ai stepped forward.
"You are mistaken, Minister."
He bowed slightly, then continued:
"Huo Qubing himself was of humble birth and only eighteen when he was enfeoffed as Marquis of Champion."
"Zhang Xin's victory is the greatest triumph our Han has seen in a century. It has strengthened our prestige and lifted morale across the realm."
"If we diminish such merit due to age or origin, how will the worthy men of the world view this court?"
He turned to Liu Hong.
"While the title of Champion should not be granted lightly, Zhang Xin's achievements deserve more than a mere township marquis. I propose he be granted the title of Marquis of Xuanwei."
Liu Hong nodded slightly.
Xuanwei was a county in Liangzhou—currently overrun by rebels and yielding no tax revenue.
Granting it would cost the court nothing, yet appear generous.
A perfect solution.
Xu Xiang grew anxious and glanced toward the Grand Commandant.
Taking the cue, Zhang Yan stepped forward.
"Vice Minister Liu's words are flawed."
"Zhang Xin, as Protector of the Wuhuan, is indeed responsible for defense—but when did the court authorize him to lead an external campaign?"
"The court has already shown leniency by not pursuing this matter. How can he now be granted a county marquis title?"
At once, many officials brightened.
That was the key point.
Mobilizing troops without imperial command was a capital offense.
Even with merit, punishment should outweigh reward.
Tian Kai could remain silent no longer.
"May I ask this gentleman's name?" he said, bowing.
"Grand Commandant, Zhang Yan," came the cold reply.
Zhang Yan glanced at him with disdain. "A minor official dares speak in court? Withdraw at once!"
Tian Kai smiled faintly.
"Though of low rank, I can distinguish right from wrong. If one of high rank cannot, then I must speak."
The court stirred with interest.
This registrar had courage.
"What do you mean?" Zhang Yan frowned.
Tian Kai bowed again.
"May I ask—when the Xianbei invaded, did the Protector of the Wuhuan have authority to fight?"
"Yes."
"And during war, does he have authority to mobilize troops?"
"Of course."
"Then how can it be called unauthorized action?" Tian Kai said calmly. "Does the law state that battles must be fought only within Youzhou's borders?"
Zhang Yan fell silent.
"There is no such law," Tian Kai pressed on. "Once war begins, battlefield decisions rest with the commander. What crime has been committed?"
Zhang Yan had no answer.
If defending within the walls was acceptable, why not striking the enemy beyond them?
Was victory not the ultimate proof?
He Jin's eyes lit up with admiration.
This Tian Kai—sharp and fearless.
Following his lead, more officials began supporting the proposal of Marquis of Xuanwei.
Xu Xiang and Zhang Yan could only fall back on arguments of status and seniority.
The court descended into heated debate.
As voices clashed, Liu Hong quietly glanced outside.
It was already noon.
He felt a pang of hunger.
"We will discuss this later. Court is adjourned."
The officials bowed as he departed.
After a few steps, Liu Hong paused and turned back.
"Minister Tian."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
"This new paper you brought—I find it quite useful. Have some presented to me later."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Liu Hong smiled. "You've traveled far. Go and rest."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
As the court dispersed, an attendant led Tian Kai away.
"Clerk, wait."
A voice called from behind.
Tian Kai turned and bowed deeply.
"This humble official greets the General. May I ask your command?"
He Jin looked at him with a faint smile.
"I wish to appoint you as an aide in my service."
He paused.
"Are you willing?"