The Bad Guys: Everyone, let’s revive the Tang Dynasty together!

Chapter 452 Li Shi, whose given name was Zuo (Part 1)
Yangzhou, the Palace of the King of Wu.

The chill of early spring was dispelled by the heavy palace gates and the burning animal-shaped charcoal inside the hall. Large candles stood on their stands, their flames leaping and casting long shadows of everyone in the hall onto the blue brick floor.

The hall was not an ordinary council hall, but the main hall where the King of Wu held important court assemblies or received foreign envoys.

At this moment, King Yang Wo of Wu, dressed in the robes of a prince, sat upright in the main seat of the hall, though his gaze was slightly unfocused, revealing a hint of barely concealed restraint. The one who truly controlled the atmosphere in the hall was Xu Wen, the powerful prime minister and right commander of the Wu Kingdom, seated to the left of King Yang Wo. Over forty years old, his expression was calm, his gaze sharp as he surveyed everyone in the hall.

On both sides of the hall, dozens of figures sat in order. The one at the head of the left group was Zhang Hao, the deputy military governor of Huainan and commander of the left guard; followed by Zhang Hao's trusted advisor and vice minister Yan Keqiu, as well as Zhong Taizhang, the general of the left gate guard, Luo Zhixiang, the deputy privy councilor and chief secretary, and others.

The right rank was not held by any Wu state official. Among them, Ma Xisheng, dressed in brocade robes, sat at the head of the Chu envoys, with several Chu officials standing behind him. Seated alongside him were Du Jianhui, the prime minister of Wuyue, and Pan Chengyou, the minister of war of Min, along with their respective officials.

At this moment, everyone's attention was focused on a spot slightly below the main seat in the hall, almost level with the King of Wu. Li Xingyun sat there, with the Longquan sword lying quietly on a low table in front of him, the candlelight flowing over the blade, occasionally flashing a deep, cold light.

For many days, representatives from Wu, Wuyue, and Min took turns paying homage to him, their words earnest and their eyes burning with desire. Each audience felt like another huge stone was being piled on his shoulders. It wasn't until today, when the meeting was held in the main hall, that he was finally allowed to step forward in public.

At this moment, the council meeting was nearing its end, and a solemn atmosphere filled the hall, a sense of anticipation before the dust settled.

Xu Wen slowly turned his head and gave Luo Zhixiang a look. The latter understood immediately, straightened his robes, walked steadily out from the Wu Kingdom's officials, stood in the center of the hall, bowed to Li Xingyun, the King of Wu, and the envoys from various countries, and then spoke to break the silence.

"Gentlemen have been discussing this for days, and today, as we convene before Your Highness, we find ourselves in complete agreement. The Liang traitor Xiao Yan, with his hawk-like gaze and wolfish ambition, clearly harbors a desire to annex Jiangnan. If this villain is not eliminated, the various vassal states of Jiangnan will find it difficult to maintain peace at any moment."

His gaze swept over Ma Xisheng, Du Jianhui, and Pan Chengyou, finally landing on Li Xingyun, his tone becoming increasingly impassioned: "However, Heaven has not forsaken the Tang Dynasty. Fortunately, Your Highness possesses the direct bloodline of Emperor Taizong and wields the Longquan Sword, a vital instrument of the state, appearing in the world of Jiangnan. This is the mandate of Heaven and the will of the people."

He bowed deeply to Li Xingyun, who was seated in the main seat, once again: "Your subject, Luo Zhixiang, Deputy Privy Councilor of Wu, on behalf of our King, Prime Minister Du of Wu and Yue, Minister Pan of Min, the two princes of Chu, and the thousands of righteous men of Jiangnan, respectfully request Your Highness. We humbly beseech Your Highness to receive the mandate of Heaven and save the people from dire straits. The four kingdoms of Wu, Chu, Yue, and Min wish to appoint Your Highness as the leader of the Alliance to Protect Tang and jointly elect Your Highness as Regent, to oversee all military and political affairs of the campaign to overthrow Liang and restore Tang. We hope Your Highness will not refuse!"

"Your Majesty agrees!"

"The Kingdom of Wu and Yue agrees!"

"The Min Kingdom seconded this!"

Regardless of their own thoughts, Du Jianhui, Pan Chengyou, and all the ministers of Wu Kingdom immediately stood up solemnly and echoed in unison.

Ma Xisheng immediately stood up. Unlike the others who bowed immediately, he bowed deeply to Li Xingyun: "The State of Chu seconds this! Before my father's deathbed, I swore that the entire State of Chu would follow Your Highness's lead and be willing to be Your Highness's vanguard to restore the Li Tang dynasty! Heaven and earth bear witness to this will!"

Even though he already knew this beforehand, the words "Regent" still felt like two massive stones crashing down on Li Xingyun's heart.

He held a position equivalent to the crown prince, overseeing both military and political affairs, and was only one step away from the imperial throne. Before the dizziness brought by power could even rise, a chilling coldness had already spread down his spine.

Regent? Once he sat on that throne, it would be a declaration to the world that he had stepped into the limelight, becoming a complete adversary of Xiao Yan, with no room for maneuver. The thought immediately brought to mind his junior sister's panicked and helpless eyes.

What would Xiao Yan do? In his fury, would he immediately...? He dared not think further, his fingers clenched tightly in his sleeve.

A hush fell over the hall. All eyes were fixed on Li Xingyun, a mixture of anticipation, eagerness, scrutiny, and pressure forming an invisible net that tightened ever more. For some reason, despite having already convinced himself, Li Xingyun still felt a fine layer of cold sweat trickling down his forehead.

He tried to keep his expression calm, as if he were considering his options, and glanced at Zhang Zifan to his left.

Zhang Zifan immediately stood up, his movements fluid and natural. He first bowed to Luo Zhixiang and the other envoys, his face displaying just the right amount of respect and composure.

"Your Highness is deeply grateful for the kindness shown to you all. Such sincerity demonstrates the determination of the righteous men of Jiangnan to restore the Tang Dynasty, which greatly inspires both Your Highness and us. However," he changed his tone, becoming more solemn, "the position of Regent is no small matter. It is the pillar of the nation, concerning the well-being of all people, and is the foundation of the great cause of restoring the Tang. Your Highness is benevolent and filial, and should therefore be extremely cautious. Such a grand ceremony of enthronement must be carefully considered in accordance with the established rituals to comfort the spirits of our ancestors in heaven, so as to show its solemnity."

Then, Zhang Zifan looked at Li Xingyun, their eyes conveying reassurance and suggestion: "As for the auspicious intention of the marriage alliance, Your Highness is deeply grateful for the kindness of the King of Wu and the other gentlemen. This is a fine example of solidifying the alliance and forging a lasting bond—"

At this point, he nodded slightly, returning the decision-making power to Li Xingyun.

Li Xingyun understood Zhang Zifan's intention and forcibly suppressed the pounding in his heart. He took a deep breath, the damp air from the Jianghuai region filling his lungs, but it brought little relief.

He met the expectant gazes of Xu Wen, Zhang Hao, and even Ma Xisheng, his voice somewhat hoarse, but he finally uttered clearly: "The matter of the marriage alliance... I hereby grant it. Thank you for your kind intentions, King Wu, and I also trouble you gentlemen to report back to the King of Yue and the King of Min."

These words immediately eased the tense atmosphere in the hall.

A barely perceptible glint of joy flashed in Xu Wen's eyes, tinged with disappointment that Li Xingyun hadn't immediately assumed the throne, but his face remained composed. He knew that the prince had his own concerns, and forcing the issue now would be counterproductive. Once the marriage alliance was finalized, the bond between Wu and this leader of the Tang Protectorate would be unbreakable, and the title of regent would be secured sooner or later.

He made some polite remarks, exchanged a glance with Zhang Hao, and then, along with the other officials, congratulated Li Xingyun on the marriage alliance. A moment later, they all escorted Li Xingyun and his entourage out of the palace to their carriages, and then bowed respectfully outside the carriages.

As the carriage began to move, Li Xingyun seemed to have all his strength drained away. He leaned back against the soft backrest and let out a long sigh. Ma Xisheng leaned over, wanting to say something, but Zhang Zifan gently patted Ma Xisheng's shoulder, signaling him to be quiet. He then looked at Li Xingyun and said, "Brother Li, the arrow is on the string, and we have no choice but to release it."

Li Xingyun waved his hand wearily, without answering.

He felt utterly confused, overwhelmed by an inexplicable pressure and the safety of his junior sister, leaving him speechless. He picked up the Longquan sword beside him, its cold touch heavy in his palm.

The three returned silently to their lodging in the secluded courtyard. Deep within the courtyard, a few slender bamboos swayed in the night breeze, rustling softly, adding to the serene and tranquil atmosphere. However, as soon as they stepped into the front hall, they saw a figure standing quietly in the lamplight, seemingly blending into the gloom.

Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng were both taken aback for a moment, then clasped their hands in greeting: "Tianyouxing, it's been a long time."

Shi Yao changed into a simpler, darker dress, her hair neatly styled, and her ordinary face appeared unusually serene in the flickering candlelight. She nodded to Zhang Zifan and the other man, then slightly curtsied and gave Li Xingyun a proper bow: "This concubine greets Your Highness."

Li Xingyun paused, his brow furrowing almost imperceptibly. It was her again. He waved for Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng to sit down, then walked to the head seat and gently placed the Longquan sword on the small table beside him. "Tianyouxing's sudden visit—is there any progress in matters concerning the Central Plains?"

Shi Yao straightened up, her gaze calmly falling on Li Xingyun's face. She didn't answer immediately, but instead asked, "Your Highness, holding the Taizong Longquan sword, has been supported by the lords of Jiangnan for the past two months. This is the will of Heaven and the will of the people. From my observation, Jiangnan has undergone a complete transformation. However, for the great cause of protecting the Tang Dynasty to succeed, a legitimate title is essential for legitimacy, and legitimacy is essential for effective command. I wonder if Your Highness has made a decision regarding the matter of assuming the throne?"

Li Xingyun remained calm, avoiding Shi Yao's gaze, and said in a low voice, "This matter is of great importance; please allow me to consider it."

Shi Yao did not back down because of his avoidance. Instead, she stepped forward and said in a steady voice, "Your Highness is kind and considerate of old friends. This situation is pitiful. However, the sooner the title is established, the sooner the hearts of the people will be united. With the people's hearts aligned and everyone working together, the hope of saving people will also increase."

She paused, observing Li Xingyun's reaction. Seeing that although he did not look up, his furrowed brows revealed his inner struggle, she continued, "The Grand Marshal is well aware of Your Highness's concerns. To help Your Highness dispel doubts, establish your legitimacy, and comply with Heaven's will, he has personally drafted a proclamation against Liang. This document is written with blood and tears, enumerating the crimes of the false Liang leader Xiao Yan, and clarifying Your Highness's righteous cause of receiving the Mandate of Heaven and restoring the Tang Dynasty."

She took out a scroll carefully wrapped in bright yellow brocade from her wide sleeves, held it up with both hands, and said respectfully: "However, if this document is to be sent to the world and shake the universe, it must be issued in the name of the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty to show its weight. If Your Highness agrees to ascend the throne, this document can be sent to the whole country immediately."

"The Emperor?" Li Xingyun looked up abruptly, his eyes filled with astonishment. Being regent was already a heavy burden; the Emperor? That meant there was no turning back, that he would be completely bound to this chariot called the Restoration of Tang, locked in a life-or-death struggle with Xiao Yan.

What should Lin Xuan do? He could almost picture Xiao Yan's furious face after seeing the manifesto.

On either side, Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng exchanged a glance, their expressions also solemn and serious.

Shi Yao met Li Xingyun's gaze directly into the turbulent emotions within him. Instead of immediately presenting the proclamation, she slightly withdrew the scroll, her tone shifting abruptly to a deep, somber voice: "Your Highness, before presenting the General's proclamation, there is a shocking secret concerning Your Highness's bloodline and, more importantly, the person of Xiao Yan. The General has ordered me to inform Your Highness of this secret first. This secret is also the key to resolving Your Highness's many doubts and understanding Xiao Yan's true nature."

The candlelight in the hall seemed to dim slightly at the weight of her words. Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng, who had been hesitant to speak, also held their breath, sensing that Shi Yao's next words would be earth-shattering.

Li Xingyun felt a sudden tightness in his chest, and a chill rose from the soles of his feet. He stared intently at Shi Yao: "...You speak."

Shi Yao nodded slightly and said calmly, "As everyone knows, when Zhu Wen usurped the Tang Dynasty, the deposed Emperor Li Zuo died in the earth-shattering upheaval in Luoyang four years ago. Xiao Yan, the Prince of Qin of Liang, because of his resemblance to the deposed emperor, entered the Liang Dynasty under the guise of the 'Dark Star,' a member of the 'Bad People' of the Tang Dynasty. Therefore, everyone in the world thought that he was just a 'Bad People' who betrayed the Tang Dynasty and joined the Liang Dynasty, and was merely a substitute for the deposed emperor."

She paused briefly, allowing the universally acknowledged fact to settle in the hall for a moment, before suddenly raising her voice: "Indeed, this is a shocking deception! A colossal lie!"

Li Xingyun's pupils suddenly contracted, Zhang Zifan's folding fan fell to the ground with a thud, and Ma Xisheng opened his mouth wide, looking completely bewildered.

Shi Yao's gaze was fixed on Li Xingyun's shocked face, and she spoke clearly, word by word: "The real Li Zuo is not that puppet emperor who died in Luoyang. He—is Xiao Yan himself."

"What?!" Li Xingyun was struck dumb, leaping from his chair. His face turned deathly pale, and he staggered backward, his knee slamming heavily against the corner of the rosewood chair behind him with a dull thud. The pain was excruciating, but it paled in comparison to the sheer horror in his heart. He stared intently at Shi Yao, his fingers trembling uncontrollably, his voice suddenly hoarse and broken: "Impossible! You... what did you say?! He... he is... my brother?!"

Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng were also completely stunned by the news. All their thoughts vanished in an instant, and the hall fell into a deathly silence, with only the candlelight flickering uneasily, casting their shadows on the wall.

Shi Yao was not surprised by Li Xingyun's reaction. She took a step closer and continued to recount the unknown details: "Back then, Emperor Zhaozong foresaw the impending disaster and, to ensure the continuation of the Li Tang bloodline, secretly ordered his trusted confidant, Tian Anxing, to carry out the 'Prince Replacement' scheme. Tian Anxing replaced the real Prince Li Zuo with his own son and sent him to the palace as a hostage. The real Prince was secretly taken out of the palace and raised under the name 'Xiao Yan.' The one whom Zhu Wen deposed and imprisoned during his usurpation was actually the son of the former Tian Anxing. As for the so-called deposed emperor, he did not die in Luoyang. In fact, he had already been rescued by Xiao Yan, whose appearance was altered, and placed elsewhere."

Her gaze swept over the stunned Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng, finally settling on Li Xingyun's distraught face: "And Xiao Yan... the blood flowing through his veins is that of the genuine Emperor Zhaozong. His name is Li Zuo, and he is Your Highness's half-brother."

“Brother… Li Zuo… Xiao Yan…”

Li Xingyun muttered to himself. He knew each name, but when put together, they made it difficult for him to form coherent sentences. The massive torrent of information had overwhelmed all his cognitive barriers. The shock of blood ties and the subversion of his identity left him dizzy and almost unable to stand.

"Brother Li." Zhang Zifan reacted and hurriedly went to help him up, but Li Xingyun just waved his hand abruptly, then slumped down in the chair, his knuckles turning white from the force, his chest heaving violently, but he couldn't breathe in much air.

However, just as Li Xingyun was shaken to his core and teetering on the brink of collapse by the truth of their bloodline, Shi Yao continued speaking without pause:
"Your Highness, the facts are undeniable. Back then, Yang Shuzi descended the mountain and set off for the Central Plains on the behalf of an old friend. As for Xiao Yan and Li Zuo, they already knew their own identities and knew that Your Highness was their younger brother." Shi Yao looked at Li Xingyun and slowly said, "But what is their true nature? When Li Keyong supported Your Highness as the King of Wei in Taiyuan and proclaimed it to the world, did he ever think of the slightest bit of kinship? Your Highness traveled from Taiyuan to Chu, enduring hardships and dangers along the way, did he ever show the slightest bit of brotherly affection? Not only did he not, but he regarded Your Highness as an enemy and was determined to get rid of him."

She gave Li Xingyun no chance to catch her breath, "and what's even more outrageous—"

Shi Yao spoke faster: "He knew perfectly well that Miss Lu was the person His Highness cared about, His Highness's junior sister, the love of his life, and nominally his... sister-in-law. Yet he brazenly imprisoned her in Bianliang to use as bait to lure His Highness. Such behavior is outrageous and despicable. Does he have even a shred of human kinship? How is his behavior any different from the old Xuanwu Gate incident? Perhaps it is even worse."

This was clearly the last thing Li Xingyun wanted to think about. Shi Yao had only mentioned it briefly when he suddenly looked up and stared intently at her.

Shi Yao, however, seemed oblivious, her gaze fixed on the Longquan sword beside Li Xingyun: "Your Highness, though he bears the name of the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty, he has betrayed not only the Tang Dynasty but also human ethics and the laws of heaven. Such a disloyal, unfilial, unjust, and immoral person, who disregards the principles of heaven and imprisons his brother's wife, is a heinous traitor to the nation, even if he has the blood of Emperor Zhaozong. If Your Highness hesitates and softens your stance because of this cold-blooded bond, wouldn't you be falling into his trap? Wouldn't you be placing Miss Lu in an abyss of no return? Wouldn't you be abandoning the people of the world to their suffering?"

"Unjust and immoral...disregarding all moral principles...imprisoning his sister-in-law..."

These words pierced Li Xingyun's chaotic mind once again. Shi Yao's accusations completely shattered the first instinctive tenderness brought about by blood ties, replacing it with an indescribable and extreme fear.

The handwritten medical book at the Sword Pavilion, the disappearance of his master after descending the mountain, the silence that followed perhaps revealing the truth… that brief eye contact with Xiao Yan on the streets of Bianliang that day. Those unfathomable eyes, so imposing that one dared not look directly at them, yet carrying something… something indescribable, something that inexplicably felt familiar and unsettling…

That's it...that's it!
The previously fragmented clues finally came together. Li Xingyun gripped the armrest, his knuckles cracking slightly from the force, the veins on the back of his hand bulging. Yet, strangely, all color had drained from his face, along with the previous panic and pain, leaving only an almost deathly calm.

"Brother Li!" Zhang Zifan was also shocked by the sudden revelation of the truth, but he reacted quickly and immediately caught the moment when Li Xingyun suddenly erupted and then returned to deathly silence. Alarm bells rang in his mind, and he stepped forward, almost using his body to block Shi Yao and Li Xingyun. His right hand was raised subconsciously, making a powerful gesture and pointing directly at Shi Yao. The latter was slightly taken aback, and then stopped speaking at the right time.

Zhang Zifan stopped looking at Shi Yao. He turned around and pressed his hands firmly on Li Xingyun's arms, which were gripping the armrest tightly. "Brother Li! Look at me! Anger is useless, and hatred will only blind you. At this moment, you must be clear-headed, clear-headed more than ever before!"

He spoke rapidly, each word clear: "Blood ties? This bloodline is not a bond now, it's a weapon. It's the weapon Xiao Yan uses to crush your mind and throw you into chaos. He imprisoned Miss Lu to disrupt your mind. He let you wander aimlessly to make you lose your judgment in despair. What Shi Yao is saying now, whether true or false, has the same purpose—to make you controlled by anger, to turn you into a brute who only knows revenge, rather than a leader who can lead us to fight against our powerful enemy!"

Zhang Zifan's gaze was fixed on Li Xingyun, as if he were forcibly injecting his own rationality into him: "Brother Li, raise your head! Look at this Yangzhou city, look at the officials from Jiangnan waiting outside the palace, look at the Longquan sword in your hand. What you carry on your shoulders is not a personal grudge between brothers, but the restoration of the vast land of the Tang Dynasty! It is also the only hope for Miss Lu to leave Bianliang alive!"

His voice suddenly lowered as he looked directly into Li Xingyun's eyes: "Anger solves nothing; it only leads to wrong judgments. Miss Lu's life depends on your composure. The survival of Jiangnan depends on your wisdom. The future of the Li Tang dynasty depends on your rationality. At this moment, you must use the calmest mind to judge and choose. Only by controlling the power and the overall situation can you be angry, seek revenge, and save those you want to save! Otherwise, it's all empty talk, like moths drawn to a flame!"

Zhang Zifan's words struck Li Xingyun's heart like heavy hammer blows. A flicker of life finally appeared on his previously lifeless face. A fierce struggle raged within Li Xingyun's empty eyes; anger and the rationality Zhang Zifan had forcibly instilled seemed to be tearing at each other in a frenzied battle.

“Brother Li.” Ma Xisheng also understood the seriousness of the situation. He stepped forward and stood beside Zhang Zifan, looking firmly at Li Xingyun.
“Zifan is right. Xiao Yan, regardless of whether he is your brother or not, he kidnapped your sister-in-law and wants to head south to the Yangtze River, making him our mortal enemy. I, Ma Xisheng, have also been unruly for over a decade, but my father said that in times of great strife, the strong become strong, and the weak perish. Now, the feudal lords have united in a rare instance. If you want to save Lin Xuan's sister-in-law, what you need is this strength, this mind, not just anger. Brother Li, pull yourself together, we're still here!”

Shi Yao watched quietly from the side, listening to Zhang Zifan's meticulous analysis and Ma Xisheng's resounding support. Instead of being angry that Zhang Zifan had exposed her intentions, a barely perceptible look of relief appeared on her face.

She said no more, but while Li Xingyun was shaken by Zhang Zifan's words and his mind was in turmoil, she calmly took out the scroll of the manifesto wrapped in bright yellow brocade from her wide sleeve and quietly waited for Li Xingyun's final decision.

The hall fell into a suffocating silence once again, with only the flickering candlelight reflecting the ever-changing expression on Li Xingyun's face.

After a long while, Li Xingyun raised his head, his gaze passing over Zhang Zifan's shoulder and landing on Shi Yao again. His eyes were no longer filled with confusion, pain, or panic; only an almost calm scrutiny remained, as if he were assessing the value of a weapon. Finally, his gaze settled on the bright yellow scroll in Shi Yao's hand.

"bring here."

Shi Yao held the scroll in both hands and handed it to Li Xingyun.

Li Xingyun took a deep breath, his hands trembling, and almost instinctively took the scroll. It was heavy in his hand, feeling even heavier than the Longquan sword.

He untied the brocade ribbon and suddenly unfurled a section of the scroll.

A glance revealed the shocking opening lines: "The treacherous villain Xiao, a descendant of the false Liang dynasty, is surnamed Li, whose given name is Zuo. He is actually the former crown prince of the late Emperor Zhaozong of the Great Tang Dynasty..."

Li Xingyun, with a cold face, read the entire scroll word by word. But this only made his face paler. Finally, he slammed the scroll shut, cold sweat pouring down his forehead.

He raised his head and looked at Shi Yao, his voice dry and hoarse: "...If this article is sent to the world, Xiao Yan...in his rage, Lin Xuan, she..." His voice choked. Lu Lin Xuan's safety was clearly the only straw he could still grasp at the moment, and also his greatest weakness.

Shi Yao's expression remained calm and composed, as if she had anticipated Li Xingyun's question. She bowed slightly and said, "Your Highness's consideration for old friends is well known to the Commander-in-Chief, who is also deeply impressed. However, the Commander-in-Chief has said: 'When one's position is established early, righteousness will be manifested early; when righteousness is manifested, heroes will be won over; when heroes are won over, bandits will tremble; when bandits tremble, Miss Lu's life will be further protected.'"

She looked directly into Li Xingyun's eyes, her tone carrying an undeniable confidence: "If Xiao Yan dares to harm Miss Lu when the proclamation is being issued to the world and His Highness is enthroned, he will be cutting himself off from the world, confirming his inhuman reputation. This action will not only fail to intimidate people, but will also inspire loyal and righteous men from all directions to unite against the enemy, which will be of great help to our great cause. This is the first point."

Shi Yao paused slightly: "Secondly, to help Your Highness quickly establish order and clear away obstacles, the Commander-in-Chief has dispatched capable men to Jiangnan to serve. For example, Zhang Yantao, the Heavenly Courage Star, is skilled in naval warfare and river defense, and has secretly arrived in Shouzhou, currently reviewing the key points of the river defense; Cui Chengying, the Heavenly Hero Star, specializes in intelligence infiltration, and should have already infiltrated Qiantang; Li Sixiao, the Heavenly Fierce Star, is the bravest in the army, skilled in attacking and breaking through enemy lines, and providing thorough protection, and will soon be at Your Highness's service. There are countless such elites among the Bad People, all willing to be Your Highness's sharp blades, eliminating treacherous officials and providing thorough protection. Once Your Highness ascends the throne, they will be able to use the Emperor's prestige as easily as an extension of their own limbs."

Zhang Zifan immediately seized this crucial push, stepping forward with an urgent and earnest tone: "What Tianyouxing said may be shocking, but judging from Xiao Yan's actions, it's either him or me. Brother Li, the struggle for imperial power has always been a bloody and ruthless affair, never one of tenderness. Even Emperor Taizong had to kill his own brothers to ascend the throne. Xiao Yan already considers you his mortal enemy, and his imprisonment of Miss Lu is clear proof. At this moment, blood ties are not a bond, but a death warrant. Hesitation will only lead to chaos. The Central Plains have only just been pacified, and Shu is not yet stable. Once Xiao Yan recovers, Jiangnan will be in danger, and Miss Lu will be in danger."

Ma Xisheng nodded vigorously: "Brother Li, Brother Zhang is right. Xiao Yan clearly knows his own identity, yet he has never cared about you, not even sparing your sister-in-law. He even tried to use my brother to instigate internal strife in Chu. He is not worthy to be your brother. Become emperor, send troops, and save your sister-in-law!"

Seeing the intense struggle in Li Xingyun's eyes, Shi Yao knew the time was right and spoke again: "Your Highness, there is no need to consider the so-called title anymore. Xiao Ze, the traitor Li Zuo, was the crown prince appointed by Emperor Zhaozong before his death. His title and righteousness are well-established. This is his greatest reliance in replacing the false Liang and bewitching people's hearts in the future."

"Although Your Highness is of the direct bloodline of Emperor Zhaozong and of unparalleled nobility, the foolish people of the world are misled by Xiao Yan's status as the 'Crown Prince of the Late Emperor,' believing him to be the legitimate heir. If Your Highness merely holds the position of regent, your legitimacy is illegitimate, and your words will lack authority. How can you unite the people's forces? How can you, in the name of righteousness, crush this usurper's aura of legitimacy? How can you inspire heroes from all directions to follow and resist this scoundrel who has usurped the title of righteousness?!"

Meeting the gazes of the three, she continued, "Furthermore, I have received a secret report that war has broken out in the northern deserts, and Liang, Jin, and the grasslands will soon be plunged into chaos. Xiao Yan's energy and resources are currently tied up in the northern war, which is a golden opportunity that will come once in a lifetime."

Seeing Zhang Zifan's thoughtful expression, Shi Yao's voice suddenly rose: "Hesitation only leads to more trouble. Your Highness, only by obeying Heaven and the people, immediately assuming the throne and becoming Emperor, and in the name of the Emperor of the Great Tang, issuing this proclamation against the rebellion, can we utterly crush the Crown Prince's falsehood in the name of righteousness. Only then can we ensure that all loyal and righteous men in the world know where to serve. Only in this way can we maximally deter Xiao Yan, making him hesitant to act rashly, and even if he has a thousand evil intentions, he will not dare to harm Miss Lu immediately."

Her gaze swept over Zhang Zifan and Ma Xisheng, finally settling on Li Xingyun: "The captains Tianyong, Tianxiong, and Tianmeng dispatched by the Commander-in-Chief can only fully display their abilities and pave the way for Your Highness under the command of the Emperor of the Great Tang. Your Highness, the imperial cause rests on this moment, and Miss Lu's safety also depends on this decision. Time waits for no one; the fate of the world rests on your decision."

"Crown Prince...legitimate...Emperor...awe...saving people..."

Shi Yao's words were like a wake-up call, or a final judgment, instantly shattering all the fog and wishful thinking in Li Xingyun's heart.

He had to admit that, despite Shi Yao's seductive words, it was the truth. Facing Xiao Yan, who held the title of "Crown Prince appointed by the late Emperor," he, as merely a "Regent," would forever be inferior in terms of legitimacy and would never be able to truly muster enough power to counter him. Only by becoming emperor, only by becoming the "Son of Heaven," could he gain absolute authority and a banner of righteousness surpassing Xiao Yan, only then could he legitimately use Yuan Tiangang's power for his own purposes, and only then could he truly... have a chance to rescue Lin Xuan!

Extreme anxiety about Lu Linxuan's safety, overwhelming anger and hatred over the "brother's" imprisonment of the "sister-in-law," desperate acceptance of Shi Yao's description of the "only way out," and the sense of urgency brought by the so-called Mobei fighter jets... all these emotions, like a flood breaking through a dam, instantly overwhelmed the last dam in Li Xingyun's heart called "hesitation."

The last trace of confusion and pain in Li Xingyun's eyes was replaced by a sense of grief and determination, and there was no more hesitation.

He turned abruptly and rushed to the desk. He grabbed the fine brush on the desk, bent down, and fiercely wrote his name in the blank space at the end of the proclamation scroll.

Zhang Zifan stared at the three vividly written characters, his heart trembling. He knew that from this moment on, everything would be different. He subconsciously looked at Shi Yao, a hint of inquiry in his eyes: "If Brother Li ascends the throne, what about the warlords of Jiangnan... a thousand and one things to deal with, all in such a rush..."

"Young Master Zhang, please rest assured." Shi Yao's lips curved upwards almost imperceptibly, before she regained her absolute respect and composure. She stepped forward and steadily accepted the proclamation personally written by Yuan Tiangang, her movements gentle: "Everything will be handled by the Bad People. The enthronement ceremony, the proclamation to the world, the liaison with the feudal lords, the preparation of military supplies... the Bad People will pave the way for His Highness in all these matters. What Young Master Zhang needs is to work together with the captains sent by the Bad People to assist the new emperor and make this a great undertaking."

Shi Yao spoke with remarkable composure, as if recounting a routine matter that had already been arranged. She said no more, carefully putting the scroll away into a specially made copper tube coated with waterproof sealing wax.

Finally, she bowed deeply to Li Xingyun, her posture extremely respectful: "Your Highness is wise. I will immediately order someone to send this proclamation to all the prefectures and counties of the world by express courier. The whole country will surely be shaken by this proclamation. The treacherous Xiao of the false Liang dynasty will not last much longer."

After speaking, Shi Yao's figure, like ink merging into water, swiftly and silently retreated from the front hall, disappearing into the deep darkness of the courtyard, as if she had never existed, amidst Li Xingyun's silent retreat.

As soon as Shi Yao's figure disappeared outside the door, Ma Xisheng sprang to life like a taut bowstring. The playful expression on his face completely vanished, and he walked a few steps to Li Xingyun and Zhang Zifan, speaking rapidly and in a very low voice.

"There's no time to lose. Now that Brother Li has made his decision, the State of Chu will surely follow him with all its might. I will immediately contact our channels in Yangzhou and report to Father King as quickly as possible that Brother Li has been enthroned and the proclamation has been issued. At the same time, I will mobilize all available Chu spies to fully cooperate with the Bad People's operation and ensure that all military garrisons within Chu respond to Brother Li's decree at the first opportunity. Brother Zhang, please take care of Brother Li's situation!"

After he finished speaking, without waiting for Li Xingyun and Zhang Zifan's response, he nodded heavily to Li Xingyun, turned around, and strode out of the front hall, his figure quickly disappearing into the night.
For a moment, only Li Xingyun and Zhang Zifan remained in the hall, along with the Longquan sword that silently gleamed in the candlelight.

Zhang Zifan looked in the direction Ma Xisheng had disappeared, then turned to look at Li Xingyun, who was still in the signing position with his back to him, a deep worry etched on his brow. He walked to Li Xingyun's side and said in a low voice, "Brother Li..."

He considered the matter carefully and said in a low voice, "Shi Yao's statement about 'paving the way' likely refers to the forceful suppression by the Bad People. Xu Wen, Zhang Hao, Qian Liu, Wang Shenzhi, and others are all shrewd and calculating individuals. How could they willingly allow themselves to be manipulated by the Bad People? A hasty ascension to the throne, if the foundation is unstable, could backfire. Moreover..." He paused, his voice even lower, "That Bad People's commander's troop deployment seems like a strong support, but his intentions are unfathomable. Are Tian Yong, Tian Xiong, Tian Meng, and the other Bad People truly allies, or... their eyes and ears? Brother Li, the road ahead is fraught with peril, fraught with danger at every turn. We must be fully prepared."

Li Xingyun slowly straightened up and put down his pen. He didn't turn around, but stared blankly at the Longquan sword on the table, which gleamed in the candlelight, and then looked down at the empty table where he had just signed his name.

His shadow stretched long in the candlelight, making him appear exceptionally lonely. After a long while, he turned around, looked at the dark sky outside the hall, and softly answered Zhang Zifan, as if speaking to himself.

"Fully prepared... intelligence, troops, trusted confidants... the Bad Guys... do we even have a choice?"

"At the beginning of the alliance, under the oppressive power of the strong, the feudal lords may be sincere, and as long as Xi Sheng successfully ascends to the throne, Chu will fall. On the Wu side, Xu Wen and Zhang Hao are at odds... The Bad People will fight for power whenever they can..."

The flickering candlelight in the hall cast their shadows, which stretched outwards across the floor tiles, sometimes long, sometimes short.

Outside the hall, the sky gradually darkened, the night became as black as ink, unfathomable, and the cold moonlight spilled into the courtyard, where all was silent. Only the distant echo of a carrier pigeon's wings seemed to reverberate in the night sky.

(End of this chapter)