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

Chapter 489 May Your Life Be Long and Prosperous (The End)

It was July, and although it was late summer, the sun was still scorching. The grass and trees on both sides of the official road drooped their leaves, and a layer of heat rose up.

Several carriages rolled across the dry road, raising fine dust as they steadily made their way towards Bianliang in the silence. The curtains were drawn low, blocking out the outside heat, while the interior of the carriages was pleasantly cool thanks to the two ice chests placed inside.

Xiao Yan sat in the first carriage, wearing only a worn-out indigo-blue narrow-sleeved casual robe, leaning against a soft cushion, and was reading through several reports sent by Li Ting from Taiyuan, as well as documents from Feng Dao who was stationed in Youzhou to oversee trade and the establishment of schools for foreign tribes.

After carefully examining it, he didn't make any comments. He simply put it aside, raised his hand to lift a corner of the bamboo curtain of the carriage window, and the familiar and imposing outline of Bianliang City came into view, instantly dispelling the weariness from his long journey.

Opposite him, the surrendered official had unusually changed out of her usual attire, now wearing a newly tailored lotus-colored, high-waisted ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese dress), over which was a moon-white half-sleeved garment. The hem of the skirt was embroidered with sparse, intertwined lotus patterns, exuding an elegance with a subtle, almost imperceptible, charm. Her long pink hair had also been dyed black, loosely tied up, and adorned with a kingfisher feather hairpin, making her skin appear even whiter than snow.

However, this domineering and arrogant older sister seemed somewhat... restless at this moment.

Before her stood a small, polished brass mirror, reflecting her still radiant beauty. She would occasionally brush her hair behind her ear, adjust the angle of her hair ornament, or smooth out non-existent wrinkles on her robes. The surrendered official's gaze seemed fixed on his own reflection, but his peripheral vision kept drifting towards the man opposite him, engrossed in official documents.

"Hey," she suddenly turned her head, her gaze not completely leaving the mirror, and asked casually, "Hey, Mr. Xiao, how's my hairstyle? What styles are fashionable among the noble ladies of Bianliang these days? What do you think of my outfit? Do you think it's... weird?"

Xiao Yan raised his gaze and it fell on her. Her attire, that of a lady from the Central Plains, was indeed quite different from her usual demeanor. She was less alluring and flamboyant, and more gentle and graceful, befitting the Central Plains.

He admired her rare display of 'dressing up for the one she loves,' and finally smiled and said, "Beautiful. Your previous outfits were too too江湖 (jianghu, a term referring to the world of martial arts and chivalry). This outfit is more like a Jiangnan misty rain dress tailor-made for you."

The surrendered official seemed fairly satisfied with his assessment, but refused to admit defeat verbally: "Hmph, it's just a matter of adapting to local customs."

She paused, then turned to the side, letting the light streaming in from the window accentuate the curves of her waist. "This color... isn't it a bit too plain? Doesn't it have enough presence? And this hairstyle... doesn't it seem too deliberate? Hmm?" She tilted her head slightly, glancing at him again.

Xiao Yan examined it carefully for a moment, then shook his head: "Simplicity is the best way to show one's true colors. Too much ostentation will only make it lose its charm. The hair is also neatly styled, just right. How can you say it was deliberate? It's just that the strand of hair on the left side of your temple doesn't seem to be completely tucked away."

The surrendered woman subconsciously reached out to touch it, her fingertips brushing against the unruly strand of hair, her brows furrowing slightly. Before she could react, Xiao Yan had already leaned forward naturally, gently brushing past her temple, skillfully pressing the stray hair firmly into her hair bun.

The surrendered minister stiffened slightly, then relaxed, letting him do as he pleased. The bronze mirror reflected Xiao Yan's profile, and the fleeting, quickly concealed emotion in her own eyes—a gentle tenderness.

After taking another look at the surrendered official, Xiao Yan couldn't help but chuckle.

"What, even the renowned surrendered official, Corpse Ancestor, has moments of trepidation? Afraid to see old friends from Bianliang?"

"Who's nervous!"

The tenderness in the surrendered minister's eyes vanished instantly, replaced by an immediate, instinctive rebuttal. He then quickly tucked the bronze mirror into his sleeve, turned to look at the rapidly receding fields outside the window, and chuckled, "Hmph, he's just afraid of embarrassing you, the King of Qin."

Xiao Yan simply chuckled and said no more. The carriage fell silent for a moment, with only the monotonous sound of wheels rolling over the road and the soft dripping of melting ice.

Regardless of who the surrendered official was doing this for, Xiao Yan picked up the official documents again, pondering how to give the Empress and Ji Ruxue a surprise, and quietly returned to his residence.

As the carriage moved forward, a commotion arose on the official road ahead, faintly mixed with the sounds of children playing. Before long, Zhong Xiaokui rode up to the carriage window, her voice coming through the curtain: "Your Highness, Ying Gou, the Corpse Ancestor, and the two Corpse Ancestors, Hou Qing and Han Ba, said that it was stuffy inside the carriage. They heard that Anle Pavilion has excellent plum juice, so they have already entered the city ahead of us."

Xiao Yan chuckled upon hearing this, as he was used to it: "I know, let them be."

As the carriage continued its journey and drew closer to the north gate of Bianliang, an unusual commotion began to emanate from the carriage walls, causing Xiao Yan to frown slightly. Immediately, a night watchman rushed in to report that a large, dark crowd had gathered on both sides of Yanguan Road, as if some people knew that the Prince of Qin was about to return to the city.

Xiao Yan lifted the carriage curtain to look, and saw that although there were no ceremonial guards at the city gate, the soldiers guarding the city all stood ramrod straight, their eyes eagerly looking north. What was even stranger was that a lot of people had spontaneously gathered inside and outside the city gate, peeking and looking around. Although they did not make a fuss, their eager anticipation could be felt from a distance.

Meanwhile, a scout who had scouted ahead rushed back to report that since Hedong had fallen, the people of Bianjing knew that the Prince of Qin was about to return to the capital, and people were waiting at the city gates every day; today was considered a day with fewer people.

Zhong Xiao Kui then rode closer and, through the carriage window, lowered her voice, saying, "Your Highness, there are too many people, a motley crew of all sorts. While this reflects the will of the people, it's difficult to distinguish the genuine from the fake. Just in case... should we speed up the passage? Or should I have my men clear a path for you?"

Inside the carriage, Jiang Chen looked at Xiao Yan. She and Xiao Yan didn't need to worry about the so-called assassins, but if there was any chaos, Zhong Xiao Kui's concerns would not be unfounded.

Xiao Yan refused without hesitation: "No need. The people's hearts are like water; they can carry a boat or capsize it, all depending on the current. How can we let the boat capsize because we are afraid of the undercurrents? Let's go straight into the city."

Although Zhong Xiaokui obeyed orders, she still dared not be careless. On the one hand, she instructed the garrison at the North Gate to maintain order, and on the other hand, she personally led the night guards to be on guard against any unexpected situations.

Sure enough, when Xiao Yan's entourage arrived at Xinghe Gate, someone excitedly shouted from the crowd, "Prince Qin! His Highness Prince Qin has returned!"

After a brief silence following this shout, the crowd erupted in cheers.

"Long live His Highness the King of Qin!"

"Thank God, His Highness the Prince of Qin has swept away the northern barbarians and returned in triumph!"

"Please, Your Highness, ascend the throne and become the Son of Heaven!!"

"The King of Qin will become emperor! Peace will reign throughout the land!"

The roar outside nearly lifted the roof off the car; countless voices shouted and cheered, making the city walls seem to tremble slightly. Shouts of "Long live the King of Qin!" and "The King of Qin shall be the Emperor!" rose higher and higher, soaring into the sky.

Through the gap in the curtain, the dense crowd stretched as far as the eye could see, like a surging tide, filling both sides of the official road, the moat, and even the city walls. Men and women, young and old, scholars, farmers, artisans and merchants, some dressed in simple clothes and others in fine silks and satins, the crowd seemed endless.

The excited crowd, like wheat fields swaying in the wind, knelt down in unison towards the carriage, their foreheads touching the ground. An elderly man with white hair wept, shouting, "Finally, we've seen a peaceful emperor!" A woman holding a child pointed at the carriage, instructing her young child, "My child, remember, that's the King of Qin who will give you and your grandfather a full stomach..."

The garrison at the North Gate, mixed in with the crowd, disregarded their image and did their best to maintain order in order to clear a path through the throng. Yet, their faces were also filled with pride as they fiercely guarded the carriage.

This overwhelming public sentiment, this heartfelt support, is more stirring than any imperial procession or triumphant song. It is as heavy as a mountain, yet as warm as the spring sun, pouring down without reservation.

Inside the carriage, the surrendered woman peered through the crack in the window at the magnificent scene outside—a scene of fervent fervor and kneeling worship—a deep sense of awe washing over her. She had witnessed his imposing presence commanding thousands of troops, and his effortless annihilation of powerful enemies with a mere flick of his wrist, but she had never seen such pure and overwhelming devotion of the people. This sight stirred her heart, and she instinctively glanced at the man beside her.

Xiao Yan took a deep breath and said in a deep voice to Zhong Xiao Kui outside the car, "Stop the car."

The carriage slowly came to a stop amidst the watchful eyes of the crowd.

Xiao Yan pushed open the car door and stepped onto the carriage. The scorching sun beat down on him, and the heatwave, accompanied by a deafening roar, almost made him lose his balance.

The surging roar reached its peak the moment he appeared, and the call for the King of Qin to become the Son of Heaven was met with unanimous agreement from all sides.

Xiao Yan stood on the carriage shaft, scanning the endless crowd of kneeling worshippers before him.

The clamor reached its peak the moment he appeared, then miraculously subsided quickly under the watchful eyes of countless expectant gazes, leaving only heavy breathing and suppressed sobs. Countless eyes were focused on him, as if gazing up at the blazing sun.

Xiao Yan raised his hand and slowly pressed it down. Only after the sound subsided completely did he speak. His voice was not particularly loud, but because it contained internal energy, most people could hear it as clearly as possible.

"Fellow countrymen, thanks to the bravery of the soldiers in my northern expedition, I have successfully fulfilled my mission. The northern border is now pacified, and the people of Hedong have submitted to me."

The crowd was about to erupt in cheers and applause, but he raised his hand to signal them to stop.

"But when war breaks out, lives are lost. Behind this great victory are countless families who have suffered the pain of separation and the pain of being separated from their loved ones. Although I have issued an edict to exempt taxes and bring peace to the people, it is ultimately you who provided the food and provisions for my army in this war; it is also you who have endured the torment of war; this victory is not the achievement of me alone, but the result of countless soldiers who shed their blood on the battlefield, and even more so the result of the silent suffering and unwavering support of people like you, the fathers and elders of the world."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over the trembling, wrinkled or youthful faces, their rough hands and faded clothes, and sighed, "Li Zuo... has caused you all to suffer."

After saying this, he actually clasped his hands together and bowed deeply to the thousands of people kneeling on the ground.

This bow caused a moment of silence among the crowd, and then, as if a monstrous wave had been stirred up, an even more turbulent and powerful roar erupted.

"Serving the King of Qin is not hard!"

"I am willing to follow the King of Qin and build a peaceful world together!"

"Let the King of Qin be our emperor!"

"I am willing to die for the King of Qin!"

Cries, shouts, and vows mingled together, shaking the entire city of Bianjing. Many people wept, banging their heads on the ground. An elderly man with white hair and beard trembled with emotion, and was supported by a young man beside him to keep from collapsing. Several teenagers followed the adults, imitating them, and kowtowed forcefully.

Xiao Yan straightened up, looking at the scene before him, a glint of light flashing in his eyes. He said nothing more, simply cupping his hands again to signal to the surrounding area. Under the heightened protection of Zhong Xiao Kui and the night watchmen, the carriage slowly started moving, entering the "people's alley" in the city. The crowd spontaneously moved aside, making way, countless eyes following the figure until the carriage disappeared at the end of the long street.

The gates of the Qin King's mansion were wide open, and figures were seen moving about in the front courtyard.

The Empress, her phoenix eyes calm, stood before the crowd. Supported by Guangmu Tian and Yang Yantian, she and Ji Ruxue waited quietly, their excitement barely contained. Yelü Zhiwu stood quietly beside Qianwu, dressed in Central Plains attire, resembling a well-behaved young lady yet to be married, intently watching the approaching carriage.

The car door opened, and Xiao Yan got out first. He immediately saw the Empress and Xue'er, and his heart tightened. He quickly stepped forward and, before the Empress could bow, firmly supported her arm. He also naturally took Ji Ruxue's hand with his other hand.

"Yunji, Xue'er, you are both unwell, why come out to greet me? You can wait for me inside the manor."

The Empress smiled through her phoenix eyes, allowing Xiao Yan to support her, and said gently, "My husband has swept across the northern frontier and pacified Hedong, his achievements are outstanding, and he is a blessing to our country. I am overjoyed to see my husband return safely, how could we not welcome him?"

Ji Ruxue's beautiful face held a gentle smile, her eyes like water, as she lightly looked at Xiao Yan: "Congratulations on your triumphant return, my husband."

Qianwu stepped forward and bowed gracefully: "Your Highness must be tired from your journey. Everything is well in the manor. Hot water and food have been prepared." She then turned to the servants and arranged in an orderly manner to receive the rest of the people and settle their luggage.

Bago, Miaochengtian, and the other holy maidens simply bowed in unison, saying, "Welcome back to Your Highness."

Yelü Zhiwu followed suit, bowed, and looked earnestly at Xiao Yan, saying, "Welcome, Your Highness."

Xiao Yan chuckled for a moment, but since he was holding the Empress and Xue'er's hands on either side, the surrendered minister also stepped out of the carriage with an elegant demeanor, lifting his skirt.

Her gaze swept over Xiao Yan, first quickly glancing at him with a hint of reproach, clearly blaming him for not waiting for her. Then it landed on the Empress, and she was about to bow in greeting when the Empress preemptively spoke up with a gentle smile.

"Your humble servant, Corpse Ancestor, has had a long and arduous journey. In your letter to Your Highness, you mentioned that many matters in Yunzhou were handled with the help of Corpse Ancestor. Your Highness and Xue'er have also mentioned many times the life-saving grace of Corpse Ancestor. Now that you have returned, please settle down in the manor with peace of mind."

The surrendered official was slightly taken aback, never expecting the Empress to give her such face. He then replied quite formally, "Your Highness is too kind. Those old matters are long gone, there's no need to bring them up again. As for now... it's all for this fellow's sake, just my duty."

Ji Ruxue stepped forward at the opportune moment and took the surrendered official's hand: "This time you stay, don't leave..."

The surrendered official glanced sideways at Xiao Yan, who was smiling but remaining silent, and then, without answering directly, leaned down with a smile: "Xue'er looks good. It seems this little one is very well-behaved?"

Ji Ruxue also gave Xiao Yan a sideways glance, then smiled lightly, "It's been relatively peaceful." The surrendered official's gaze lingered briefly on the Empress and Ji Ruxue's swollen bellies, a complex emotion flashing across the depths of her eyes, too fleeting to be easily detected.

Xiao Yan looked at the women in front of him and felt a little relieved. He said cheerfully, "Qianwu, give the order to prepare a family banquet." He looked at the surrendered official and added, "Jiangchen, arrange for him to stay at... that waterside pavilion in the back. It's cooler there by the water."

Upon hearing this, the surrendered official shook her head repeatedly: "As for accommodations, there's no need to bother arranging anything else. My old room was fine; it was quiet and close to the pharmacy, saving me the trouble of moving around..." She deliberately dragged out her words, with a hint of probing, "You wouldn't... not have kept that room, would you?"

Qianwu immediately stepped forward with a smile and said knowingly, "Now that the Corpse Ancestor has mentioned it, I know which room it is. That room has always been kept, and Your Highness often..." Before she could finish speaking, Xiao Yan interrupted her.

Xiao Yan frowned slightly, holding the Empress's hand in one hand and Xue'er's hand in the other, and said to everyone, "Alright, it's too hot outside, let's all come inside and talk."

The surrendered official watched his retreating figure, let out a soft hum, but the corners of his mouth unconsciously curled up slightly, and a hint of smugness flashed in his eyes.

The group moved to an open hall in the inner garden, lush with flowers and trees. The hall was elegantly furnished, with fruits chilled in ice chests, the cool air dispelling the summer heat. Maids served tea and snacks and then quietly withdrew. Xiao Yan took off his outer robe, which Miao Chengtian naturally stepped forward to take and draped over his arm.

He first inquired carefully about the Empress and Ji Ruxue's physical condition, whether the fetal movements were stable, and how their diet and daily life were. He also offered a few words of encouragement to Qianwu for his hard work in managing the vast royal palace.

The family banquet was held on a platform overlooking the water, surrounded by fine bamboo curtains that allowed for ventilation while keeping out insects. Several palace lanterns cast a soft glow, illuminating the waterside pavilion in a warm and tranquil atmosphere. A large round table was placed in the center, laden with seasonal dishes; though not extravagantly luxurious, the food was still delicious and visually appealing.

Xiao Yan sat in the main seat and began to recount some interesting anecdotes from the north. They had already communicated about matters in the north through correspondence, so he would not elaborate on them in this setting and spoil the atmosphere.

Ji Ruxue then recounted an amusing anecdote: "Chi Meng sent a letter mentioning that the Gu King's promotion of new rice varieties and waterwheels in Raojiang has been quite successful. As for her..." Xue'er recalled Chi Meng's hesitant words in her letter, where she made countless excuses to come to the Central Plains, and her lips curled slightly. "Her heart has already flown to Bianliang, but right now, she can't leave Raojiang because of her father and brothers' affairs."

Before Xiao Yan could speak, the Empress mentioned that the Gu King's family had made great contributions in Raojiang and that Chi Meng should have been brought to Bianjing sooner. This surprised the surrendered official, who realized that Xiao Yan still had a maid in Raojiang. He hurriedly asked her about it.

The atmosphere at the banquet was lively for a while, and the topic somehow turned to how Xiao Yan "seduced" all the beauties in the world. It wasn't until the conversation turned to the legendary Rouge Appraisal that the surrendered minister, for some reason, awkwardly changed the subject.

After a short rest and some light tea and snacks, Ji Ruxue, experiencing severe pregnancy symptoms, was helped back to her room by Miao Chengtian. The surrendered officials were led by Qianwu to a side room near Xiao Yan's main courtyard. After everyone dispersed, Xiao Yan took the Empress's hand and slowly strolled back to his bedroom.

Back in her room, the Empress leaned against the cushioned chaise lounge, watching Xiao Yan sitting on a low stool beside it. She recounted the grand spectacle of the people upon her entry into the city, and concluded with a sigh: "My husband entered the city today, and the people followed him with overwhelming joy, shouting 'Long live the Emperor!' Even though I am here in the palace, I can only imagine how awe-inspiring it was. The will of the people is overwhelming, like a river rushing to the sea, unstoppable."

Xiao Yan gently placed his palm on her abdomen, feeling the rhythm of life, without immediately responding.

The Empress paused, her gaze falling on an inconspicuous hidden compartment beside her pillow. She reached in and rummaged around for a moment, then took out a finely crafted, bright yellow silk scroll and handed it to Xiao Yan.

"There is another matter. Just a few days before your return, Zhu Youzhen secretly summoned Li Mang, the garrison commander in charge of the palace's defenses."

Xiao Yan's gaze fell on the silk book.

"He gave this to Li Mang." The Empress unfolded a corner of the silk scroll, revealing the writing inside. "Li Mang dared not act on his own and delivered it to the Prince's residence overnight."

"This is the abdication edict written by Zhu Youzhen himself and stamped with the imperial seal. He said that he knew that the Zhu family had lost its virtue and that the Mandate of Heaven was in the Tang Dynasty. He was in a state of fear and anxiety, and could not sleep day and night. He wished to follow the example of the ancient Yao and Shun and abdicate the throne to his husband in accordance with the Mandate of Heaven and to appease the people."

She watched as Xiao Yan accepted the imperial edict, then continued, “This matter was extremely confidential; Li Mang only informed me. I did not publicize it, nor did I consult the officials of the Tiance Mansion. Now that my husband has returned, this matter should be reviewed and decided upon by him personally. Although Zhu Youzhen's actions were due to circumstances, seeking to preserve her life and wealth, they also… silenced the gossip and confirmed my husband's claim to the mandate of heaven and the rightful ruler. Husband…” She paused, her gaze gently falling on Xiao Yan's face, “Now, do you still have any concerns?”

Xiao Yan unfolded the edict. Zhu Youzhen's wording was clearly panicked and obsequious, nothing more than admitting his own lack of virtue, praising the achievements of the Prince of Qin, and expressing his willingness to abdicate. He did not read the contents carefully, but glanced at the seal before gently closing the edict and placing it on a low table to the side.

He gently grasped the Empress's hand resting on her abdomen; the warmth from her palm and the pulse of life beneath it brought him a sense of peace.

“Yunji, I had many concerns before, fearing that the throne would become a compromise, and that we would repeat the mistakes of Zhu Wen, making it difficult to implement the new policies. But on that night in Datong, Shuliduo’s words were like a wake-up call. She said that if the name is not correct, the words will not be proper, and if the words are not proper, things will not be accomplished. This title of ‘Son of Heaven’ may be a cage, but it is indeed the basis for uniting people’s hearts, commanding the world, implementing new policies, and deterring disobedient people from all directions.”

His gaze fell on the Empress's belly, and he said frankly, "Whether it's for our child or for the long-cherished wish to end this three-hundred-year period of chaos, this throne... is rightfully yours."

The Empress met his gaze, took Xiao Yan's hand in return, and simply nodded.

No further words are needed; our hearts are already in sync.

------

Xiao Yan's days after returning to the capital were not as peaceful as he had imagined. Outside the Prince's mansion, the ripples spread rapidly throughout Bianliang City and even further afield, eventually surging into a torrent.

First, an urgent report from Henan Province stated that the Yellow River at Mengjin section had become clear for three days, with fish and shrimp clearly visible at the bottom. In his memorial, Prince Wei, Zhang Quanyi, cited classical texts, calling this an auspicious omen of "the Yellow River clearing when a sage appears," a sign of great order and prosperity for the world.

Immediately afterwards, a report came from Hebei Province that auspicious grains had appeared in the millet fields planted by farmers outside Zhenzhou City. Each stalk bore nine full ears of grain. The county magistrate was greatly astonished and urgently sent the grains, along with the report, to Bianliang by fast horse. The report described this as a sign of "heaven-sent auspicious grains, a sign of a bountiful harvest."

A report from Sichuan followed closely behind, stating that hundreds of people had witnessed a white tiger appear at the foot of Qingcheng Mountain in the western suburbs of Chengdu. The white tiger had snow-white fur and a powerful physique. It was not frightened by the people, but instead let out three low growls before disappearing into the mountains and forests without a trace. The memorial stated that the white tiger was the god of war in the west, yet it manifested its divine power without harming anyone, and its low growls served as a warning, thus demonstrating the benevolence of the king and ending the war.

Fengxiang also submitted a memorial, stating that several days prior, at dawn, clouds and mist rose above Qishan Mountain, and the clear, melodious cry of a phoenix echoed through the sky for a long time. Auspicious clouds gathered, forming a canopy that enveloped the main peak of Qishan Mountain for half a day.

Even a memorial from as far away as the northern desert arrived, stating that a divine miracle had occurred at Muye Mountain, with a red meteor falling to the ground and transforming into a huge, pure white, warm and smooth stone. Strange patterns naturally formed on the stone, which, according to the accompanying military documents, closely resembled the ancient seal script characters "Heaven's Mandate is in Qin"!
For the next two weeks, Bianliang was immersed in an unusual clamor and anticipation. Stories of auspicious omens spread like wildfire, quickly reaching every street and alley. A white deer appeared on Mount Song, auspicious grains grew in the suburbs of Bianliang, the Yellow River ran clear for three days... all sorts of true and false omens were circulated with incredible awe.

These auspicious omens, as if preordained, arrived in Bianliang from all directions, via land and water routes, like snowflakes, within a mere ten days, piling up on the desks of the Tian Ce Mansion. Local officials, military commanders, and even some astute former officials of the Zhu Liang dynasty and wavering regional governors all rushed to write extensively about them in their memorials, going to great lengths to embellish them, closely linking these extraordinary phenomena to the achievements and virtues of the King of Qin, as irrefutable proof that "the Mandate of Heaven is with Qin."

The calls for him to ascend the throne from all over the country, including Henan, Hebei, Guanzhong, Shu, Longxi, Hedong, and Mobei, were even stronger and more resounding than before.

At the end of July, led by Han Yanhui and Jing Xiang, along with generals such as Li Si'an and Wang Jingren who had just returned to the capital after the war in Jin, as well as many important officials from the Tian Ce Mansion and the Privy Council such as Zhang Wenwei and Yang She, all went to the Prince of Qin's residence to request an audience.

Inside the main hall of the Prince's residence, the air was filled with the fragrance of sandalwood. Xiao Yan sat calmly in the main seat. After the officials finished their greetings, calls for his ascension to the throne surged forth like a tide.

Han Yanhui stepped forward without hesitation, saying, “Your Highness, the northern border is secure, the barbarian dust has receded; the people of Hedong have submitted, the rebellious forces have been swept away; the four seas are all subdued, and the people look up with anticipation. This is not due to human effort, but truly the mandate of Heaven. Recently, auspicious omens have appeared one after another, with ripe grains and calm seas. These are all signs from Heaven, indicating a change of the imperial throne! Your Highness is the direct descendant of Emperor Zhaozong, the legitimate successor of the Tang Dynasty. You have swept away the chaos and brought peace to the land, saving the drowning and rescuing the burning, your achievements surpassing those of past sages, your virtue reaching the world! Now, the Zhu Liang dynasty has lost its way, and the false emperor has usurped the throne in Jiangnan, usurping the imperial throne. It is precisely the time for Your Highness to follow the will of Heaven and the people, to ascend the throne! With the ambition to unify the world and to reassure the hearts of the people, this is the time! I earnestly hope that Your Highness will not hesitate any longer, ascend the throne as soon as possible, and establish order in the world!”

After speaking, Han Yanhui bowed deeply once again. Behind him, civil officials such as Zhang Wenwei and Zheng Yu also bowed deeply in unison.

As soon as Han Yanhui finished speaking, Li Si'an could no longer contain himself and strode out.

"Your Majesty, our soldiers risked their lives to fight for you, hoping to follow the Son of Heaven, secure a title and a place in history. Now the Northern Barbarians are pacified, Hedong has surrendered, and our army is strong and powerful. Who in the world can rival us? The brothers in the camp are all asking when they can kowtow to Your Majesty and shout 'Long live the Emperor!' The Zhu family emperor is immoral; he trembles at the sight of the night watchman's badge. What is he still clinging to on the throne for? We beg Your Majesty to ascend the throne! The entire army will follow Your Majesty's lead! Even a frown in the face of fire or water is unacceptable!"

Behind him, a dozen or so military officers clasped their fists and roared in unison, "Please, Your Majesty, ascend the throne!"

Han Yanhui then said again, “It is the will of Heaven, and so is the will of the people. On the day Your Highness entered the city, the streets of Bianliang were deserted, and people prostrated themselves on the side of the road, shouting ‘Long live the Emperor!’ and begging to ascend the throne. This scene was truly moving. This is not Your Highness’s personal desire, but rather the mandate of Heaven and the will of the people. The whole world is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the true ruler!”

At this moment, Yang She, the Left Minister, stepped forward. Although his temples were already gray, his voice was clear and resonant, and he was even more excited.

"What Lord Han says is absolutely right. Moreover, Your Highness has the mandate of heaven and the support of the people, and even more so, the right to rule the law!" Yang She stared intently at Xiao Yan. "Your Highness's lineage is known throughout the land. He is Li Zuo, the ninth son of Emperor Zhaozong and the Crown Prince of the Tang Dynasty! He carries the blood of Emperor Gaozu and Emperor Taizong, and inherits the legitimate lineage of the glorious Tang Dynasty! This is a divinely ordained throne, beyond dispute!"

He abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming somber and impassioned: "The traitor Zhu Wen usurped the Tang throne, established himself as emperor, and committed heinous crimes! Your Highness has endured humiliation and hardship, temporarily residing in the court of the false Liang dynasty, accepting the title of 'King of Qin.' This is not kneeling before a traitor, but rather the strategy of Goujian enduring hardship and biding his time. By borrowing this title, you are like a dragon lying in the abyss, accumulating thunderous power, waiting for the opportunity to restore order! In the past, Emperor Gaozu of Han also accepted a title from Xiang Yu, and Emperor Guangwu also submitted himself to Gengshi. These were all strategies of powerful rulers who concealed their ambitions in order to restore the Han dynasty. Your Highness's actions are exactly the same as those of the ancient sage kings!"

Yang She looked around and said in a long voice, "Your Highness, in the name of 'Prince of Qin,' you have carried out the restoration of the Tang Dynasty! You led a lone army, swept across the land, executed traitors, and brought peace to the people! The title 'Prince of Qin' is an empty title to the false Liang Dynasty, but in the hearts of all the people, it has long been a symbol of a holy ruler who will restore the world and support the nation! His prestige far surpasses the titles bestowed by the Zhu family! Your Highness's ascension to the throne is to restore the legitimate Tang Dynasty and inherit the great achievements of our ancestors! It is to restore order and to act in accordance with Heaven and the people!"

"Your Highness's achievements are unparalleled throughout history! Your Highness's virtue benefits all living beings! Your Highness is ordained by Heaven! Your Highness's name is righteous and just! The Mandate of Heaven, the hearts of the people, the rule of law, and righteousness all reside in Your Highness! The false emperor of Jiangnan has usurped the throne and bewitched the people. The world urgently needs a wise ruler to take the throne, rule the eight wastelands, sweep away the evil influence, and establish a foundation for lasting peace!"

Yang She took a step back, standing shoulder to shoulder with Han Yanhui and Jing Xiang. All the civil and military officials in the hall, regardless of their inner thoughts, knelt down in unison, their movements perfectly synchronized, the clanging of their armor and the rustling of their robes blending together into a cacophony.

They touched their foreheads to the ground and said in unison, "Your Highness, the Prince of Qin! You have received the Mandate of Heaven and the will of the people! Ascend the throne to secure the nation and stabilize the world! We, your humble servants, risk our lives to plead for Your Highness's acceptance!"

Xiao Yan listened quietly, his face showing little emotion, his gaze calm as it swept over each face, whether excited, earnest, or awe-inspiring. After the ministers had finished speaking, he slowly rose, not immediately responding to the overwhelming urging to ascend the throne, but calmly saying, "I know the intentions of you gentlemen. Follow me."

Having said that, he walked straight out. The assembled officials looked at each other, puzzled, but dared not disobey. They suppressed their doubts and excitement and followed closely behind.

The carriages and horses left Bianliang City and headed towards the outskirts. The sweltering heat of midsummer rose from the fields, accompanied by the incessant chirping of cicadas. Xiao Yan did not ride in the carriage but instead mounted a magnificent, jet-black horse, with Wen Tao, Shangguan Yunque, and others following behind on horseback. Han Yanhui, Jing Xiang, and the others had no choice but to mount their horses and follow as well.

The group then arrived at a vast field on the eastern outskirts of Bianliang City.

As summer transitions into autumn, the early-ripening wheat, millet, and sorghum are already in full harvest.

In the fields, farmers are busy working, sweating profusely. Sickles fly, cutting down swathes of crops; on the threshing floor, flails rise and fall, and the threshed grain raises golden dust in the sunlight; on the drying ground, newly harvested grain covers the ground, golden and gleaming, exuding a fresh fragrance.

The farmers' bronzed faces, etched with the marks of time, now radiated contentment. Children chased and frolicked along the field ridges, while women brought water in earthenware jars. The air was thick with the mingled scents of earth, sweat, and new grain—a vibrant life rarely seen in this chaotic world. And this was all within a single year of the new policies being implemented.

Xiao Yan reined in his horse and stopped it on a high point on the edge of the field, quietly watching the scene before him.

He didn't speak, he just watched.

A farmer scoops up a handful of plump wheat grains, squinting, every wrinkle on his face smoothing out; a man, shirtless, his muscles bulging, sweats profusely as he winnows the wheat; a farmer's wife wipes the sweat from her neck with a headscarf, turning back to smile at her husband in the field; children run carefree, their laughter ringing out…

Han Yanhui, Jing Xiang, Li Si'an and others also dismounted and stood behind Xiao Yan, looking at the bustling scene of harvest and the warmth of human life, and then at Xiao Yan's tall and silent figure, as if he had become one with the field.

They seemed to have realized something. Han Yanhui's eyes showed deep thought, Jing Xiang's hand stroking his beard stopped, and Yang She's face showed a hint of emotion and understanding.

But this scene of abundant harvest seems to be separated from their thoughts of being destined for greatness and being bestowed with the imperial robes by a hazy veil.

The sunlight gradually lengthened the shadows, and Xiao Yan gazed at them for a long, long time, as if trying to etch the scene into his heart.

Finally, he slowly turned around, his gaze sweeping over the group of high-ranking officials behind him who represented the core of power. His face no longer displayed the sternness that kept his emotions hidden, nor the arrogance of someone who was smug and self-satisfied, but rather a long, almost peaceful laugh.

He raised his hand, pointed to the field in front of him, and laughed loudly.

"What you gentlemen just said about destiny, auspicious omens, and the rule of law... all have their reasons, some say it is the will of Heaven, and some say it is the greater good."

He paused slightly, his gaze returning to the shimmering wheat fields under the blazing sun, to the old farmers whose smiles were warmer than the sun, to the robust figures sweating on the threshing floor, and to the children chasing and playing. Yet, he stood tall, his hands on his belt.

"However, since seeing this place, none of the things you gentlemen have described have occurred—"

"I think I have already gained the world."

As soon as he finished speaking, all was silent. Only the sounds of the wind in the fields, the clanging of farm tools, and the laughter of children echoed together, lingering endlessly.

The assembled officials, witnessing this scene and hearing these words, were deeply moved.

The saying "sudden enlightenment" or "seeing the sun after the clouds have parted" perfectly describes this situation.

(End of this chapter)