The imperial court should reconsider. Once the war begins, the newly restored national strength of Great Song will suffer heavy blows, and the people will be drawn into the flames of war. Please think twice, Your Majesty!

In front of the city gate of Hangzhou, Qin Hui tightly held onto Cao Guang's horse reins, tearfully and earnestly advising the emperor, who was about to lead the troops.

Cao Guang glared at him fiercely and said, "Seeking peace is merely a temporary measure. The Jin people are the hidden threat to Great Song, and they will be eliminated sooner or later. Since they are to be eliminated, why not take the opportunity while I am young and strong to resolve it early on!"

If the imperial court is seeking peace with the Jin people, how can they rashly start a war? Wouldn't this be a breach of trust among nations?

In this world, the strong are respected. Have you ever seen wolves and sheep keeping their promises?

Step aside quickly, don't delay the military situation! It's your only option!

In the face of Cao Guang's furious expression, Qin Hui showed no sign of retreat. He desperately held onto the reins, but was kicked aside by Cao Guang and watched him ride away.

However, after the entire army had left Hangzhou, Qin Hui revealed a trace of unnoticed smile.

Cao Guang made up his mind to find an opportunity to have a decisive battle with the Jin people. Li Gang and Liu Guangshi were stationed in the western front to maintain a defensive position, while in the east, they would wait for the right moment to launch an attack.

He left Zhang Jun and Lv Yihao behind to handle the logistics and recruitment of troops, while he personally led 200,000 elite soldiers out of Hangzhou, advancing to Guiding Prefecture. At the same time, he ordered Han Shizhong and Yue Fei to lead 100,000 troops from Jiankang to join him.

Chen Cui was left in Jiankang to guard the Yangtze River defense line and prevent the Jin people from launching a surprise attack.

In April of the 6th year of Jianyan, over 350,000 Song troops gathered in Guiding Prefecture, while facing them was General Jin Wuzhu, commanding less than 100,000 trembling soldiers.