Because there was no complete concept of a nation in ancient times, those places could only be considered as areas influenced by Champa and Zhenla.

Today, with the large army dispatched by Zhang Jun escorting them, the members of the imperial clan feel much safer.

It was in Jiaozhou that the members of the imperial clan officially separated.

The King of Wei went to Zhenla, and the King of Yue went to Champa.

On this day, Zhao Zisong and his son Zhao Zhong summoned the people of the clan to discuss matters concerning the fiefdom.

The imperial court not only arranged for 20,000 troops to escort them, but also relocated 20,000 people from Jiaozhou to go south with them to establish a new country.

Zhao Zisong believed that with his 20,000 troops, he could easily attack Champa, take over its capital, and then he wouldn't have to rebuild it himself. Moreover, the southern plains were much more prosperous.

Zhao Zhongze believed that the campaign was launched without a legitimate reason and that it should not be undertaken lightly.

He suggested sending an envoy to the capital of Champa to greet the King of Champa, since they would be neighbors in the future.

Other members of the imperial clan also agreed with Zhao Zhong's idea.

“Uncles, elders, we are now establishing a kingdom in someone else’s territory, yet we are sending envoys to inquire after them. This is unreasonable. Our envoys will be killed, and soon the King of Champa will send troops to attack us. We should prepare as soon as possible.”

A childish voice rang out; it belonged to an eight-year-old child.

The child was handsome with clear features and bright, spirited eyes.

Although he was only eight years old, he spoke with an air of maturity beyond his years.

Someone said, "Zhao Shen, children shouldn't interrupt adults."

Zhao Zhong knew that although Zhao Shen was young, he was no ordinary person.

Zhao Zhong listened to his advice and persuaded his father to choose Champa.

Zhao Zhong did not know that Zhao Shen was a child prodigy, but Zhao Shen's reasons were very convincing.

Champa was smaller in territory and population, making it more suitable for establishing a state. It also had a long coastline, making it closer to the Song Dynasty by sea. Most importantly, Champa rice was famous in the Song Dynasty.

Zhenla is a vast country, but it borders Siam to the west. Siam is one of the most powerful countries in the south and is a formidable enemy.

Therefore, choosing Champa, which has a smaller territory, is the best option.

Ironically, Uncle Zhao thought he had gotten a bargain by choosing Zhenla.

Zhao Zhong looked at Zhao Shen, unsure whether he was telling the truth or not. After all, his statement differed from his previous choice of territory and lacked persuasiveness.

No one would care about what a child said.

Everyone agreed to send an envoy.

Having neither military nor political experience, Zhao Zisong agreed to the proposal and sent an envoy ahead to the capital of Champa to meet the King of Champa.