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

Chapter 504 Reigning Supreme (Part 2)

As the twelfth lunar month ends, the year-end approaches.

The outline of Bianliang City gradually became clear in the morning light, covered with a thin layer of pure white, with melting snow dripping from the eaves and tapping on the bluestone slabs.

The chill was still strong, but it couldn't suppress the burgeoning, almost boiling heat of the entire city. The streets and alleys were swept clean, and new peachwood charms were hung in front of every household. Because the imperial court advocated frugality and prohibited extravagance, the whole city did not appear too ostentatious around the Spring Festival. However, the brand-new atmosphere still conveyed the people's hopes more than any colorful decorations.

The Imperial Street began to be cleaned and swept half a month in advance, with yellow earth used to pave the road. Even today, the gates of the wards open half an hour earlier than usual, and the people, breathing out white breath and wrapped in thick coats, spontaneously gather on both sides of the Imperial Road, where they are allowed to pay their respects, craning their necks in anticipation.

Rows of imperial guards in bright armor, halberds in hand, marched out and stood solemnly on both sides of the eight-mile-long Imperial Street stretching from Nanxun Gate to Xuande Tower, separating the surging crowds.

Today is the first day of the first lunar month.

It was the day the King of Qin ascended the throne.

Qin Wangfu.

Xiao Yan had gotten up early, dressed in a plain white undergarment, and stood in front of the window, gazing at the old plum tree in the courtyard covered with remnants of snow. His gaze was calm, revealing little emotion.

The faint sounds of the bustling city outside the window seemed both very close and yet extremely far away, as if separated by an invisible barrier.

Soft footsteps sounded from behind him, and a warm cloak was draped over his shoulders. The Empress stepped forward and carefully adjusted his collar and tied his ribbons, her movements gentle and focused.

"It's windy, don't catch a cold." Her voice was calm, with a hint of relief or perhaps a sigh. "After today, such peaceful times will probably be rare."

Xiao Yan smiled and took her hand.

Today, the Empress wore the ceremonial robes of the empress rank. The deep blue brocade was adorned with dignified pheasant patterns. She wore a crown with nine dragons and four phoenixes, surrounded by pearls and jade. Her dignified and noble appearance made her face even more radiant. Her phoenix eyes, as they turned, exuded the majesty of an empress. At this moment, she looked up at the person in front of her, her eyes slightly watery.

"Tranquility resides in the heart, not in the external world. Over the years, through storms and hardships, both internal and external, you and Xue'er have been by my side, and I have never had a moment of peace. In the future, I may still be destined for a life of toil."

The Empress looked up at him, a faint smile playing in her eyes: "Toiling alongside you is no toil." She carefully straightened the collar of his inner robe. "Everything is ready; we only await the auspicious hour, my husband..."

Xiao Yan held her hand, feeling its coolness, and then cupped his palms together to warm it. "Are Xue'er and the children settled in?"

"Xue'er is resting in the back hall with Aji and Dai'er. With Miao Chengtian and the others watching over them, my husband can rest assured," the Empress said softly. "These clothes are made of Shu fabric with a silk lining. It's cold today, are you warm enough, my husband?"

Such casual conversation took on a special tenderness at this moment. Xiao Yan knew that she was inevitably feeling a bit emotional, so he replied, "Yes, it's very warm. You're so thoughtful."

The sound of a night watchman's drum came from outside the palace; it was the hour of Yin (3-5 AM).

Several maids entered the room carrying a twelve-symbol robe, a twelve-tassel crown, as well as a jade belt, a knee covering, red shoes, and other items, and stood silently to one side.

The Empress personally took the items and dressed Xiao Yan one by one with great care.

The black upper garment symbolizes the dawn, while the crimson lower garment signifies the twilight. The sun, moon, stars, mountains, dragons, and pheasants are painted on the upper garment, while ancestral vessels, waterweeds, fire, rice grains, axe, and embroidered patterns are embroidered on the lower garment. The so-called twelve imperial symbols are arranged in a well-ordered manner, with inner splendor and extreme majesty.

Finally, she held up the crown adorned with white jade beads with both hands and gently placed it on his head.

The tassels swayed gently, casting a thin beaded curtain before his eyes, half-concealing his eyes.

The Empress stepped back two paces, scrutinizing him closely. The man before her stood tall and imposing, his usually restrained aura radiating outwards under the weight of his majestic imperial robes, as if he were born to stand above all others and receive the homage of all.

She stared at it for a moment, lost in thought, before whispering, "It fits perfectly."

Outside the hall, Du Xunhe, the Minister of Rites, and several vice ministers and senior officials were quietly checking the lengthy and complicated ceremony procedures one last time. Every step, every movement, and even the pitch of each greeting had to be perfect.

After the verification was completed, the group bowed and stepped aside to wait quietly. They were also dressed in solemn court attire, but sweat was visible on their foreheads. Today's matter concerned the foundation of the nation and the stability of the people's hearts; no mistake could be tolerated.

"The time is approaching..." the Empress said softly.

Xiao Yan nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the old plum tree covered in snow in the courtyard, without saying a word. He raised his hand to straighten the jade tablet, which didn't need adjusting, without the slightest impatience. Yu Youshu, who was standing outside the screen, stepped forward breathlessly to check every detail of the ceremonial robes one last time, ensuring they were perfect.

At the exact hour of Mao (5-7 AM), the giant bell on the Bell and Drum Tower of the Imperial City was struck with great force. The grand and clear sound of the bell suddenly broke the last silence of the morning, one sound after another, continuous and unending, the sound waves sweeping across the entire city.

All those inside and outside Bianliang who heard this sound understood its meaning.

Du Xunhe took a deep breath, stood outside the palace gate holding his imperial staff, gathered his strength, and loudly proclaimed, "The auspicious hour has arrived—Your Highness, please depart—"

Xiao Yan took one last look at the figure in the mirror and saw a pair of dark, angry eyes looking at him through a swaying tassel. This one glance seemed to carry a thousand years of time.

He gave his reflection in the mirror a barely perceptible nod, then resolutely turned and walked away.

The main gate of the Prince's Palace was wide open, and the Emperor's jade carriage slowly drove out. Xiao Yan sat upright in the carriage, his imperial robes and crown imposing, like the sun and the moon.

The emperor's entourage stretched for miles, with dragon banners, ceremonial flags, ceremonial swords, ceremonial staffs, feathered canopies, and other ceremonial items. The night watchmen, carrying golden maces and axes, moved in unison, their faces grim.

The elite cavalry of the Palace Guard held the reins, their warhorses snorting thick white smoke. Adorned in magnificent horse armor, their horseshoes struck the spotless stone slabs of the Imperial Street with a crisp, yet powerful, clattering sound that resonated deep within the heart.

The procession did not head directly to the imperial city, but instead followed ancient custom by first touring the main imperial road around the city to announce the decree to the people.

The people of Bianjing had already heard the news and almost the entire city turned out, crowding the reserved areas on both sides of the imperial road. The streets were deserted. Despite the biting cold wind, people still stood on tiptoe and craned their necks, countless eyes fixed intently on the slowly approaching jade carriage.

When the imperial carriage and ceremonial procession came into view, the long-suppressed whispers and anticipation from both sides of the imperial road suddenly rose to a crescendo, transforming into a thunderous roar of cheers.

"Long live!"

"Long live your Majesty!"

"A sage has descended from the heavens!"

"Let this old man step forward and pay my respects... Having lived for seventy-eight years and served four dynasties, I have finally met the true Son of Heaven..."

Many elderly people, their hair white with emotion, were moved to tears. They knelt tremblingly in the snow, repeatedly kowtowing. They had lived through the Huang Chao Rebellion, the warlord era, and Zhu Wen's usurpation of the Tang Dynasty…

The tragedy of exchanging children to eat seemed like yesterday, yet now, witnessing the new emperor's procession, the shouts of "Long live the emperor!" came from the bottom of their hearts. More and more people followed suit, kneeling in worship, a dark mass stretching as far as the eye could see.

Xiao Yan sat in the jade carriage, glancing through the slightly swaying jade tassels at the excited people by the roadside. Their weathered faces now shone with an almost pious light.

His expression was calm, neither happy nor angry; he simply gently clenched his hands, which were resting on his knees.

From this moment on, the weight of this magnificent land and the lives of countless people began to press down on his shoulders with immense and undeniable significance.

The imperial carriage toured the city once, and finally entered the imperial city through the Nanxun Gate.

Inside Xuande Tower, a procession of officials stood solemnly awaiting their arrival. According to rank, civil officials were positioned to the east and military officials to the west, their robes clearly distinguished by color. Their eyes were lowered, some silently reciting congratulatory messages, others concentrating intently; a silent tension and solemnity permeated the air.

Further away, there were processions of envoys from various countries: envoys from Chili, Xiancan, Yelü Yaoguang, Bohai, and the three peninsulas, as well as representatives from Dingnan and Shuofang towns... Their attire varied, and their expressions were complex, some gratified, some awe-inspiring, and some cautious, all silently awaiting the arrival of that moment.

A few days ago, Chi Li, who had been personally brought to Bianjing by Xiao Yan, kept adjusting his robes, looking somewhat nervous. Xian Can gently pressed his hand and shook his head.

Occasionally, there would be very quiet exchanges of words among the crowd.

"It's true... I never thought I'd see such a sight in my lifetime..." Zhang Wenwei murmured to himself as he looked at Xuande Gate, his voice muffled and his eyes seemingly wet.

Yang She, standing to the side, gently nudged him to silence him, his eyes revealing the same deep emotion and excitement.

Among the military officers, Wang Yanzhang, returning to the capital from Taiyuan, stood ramrod straight, clad in armor and court robes, his gaze fixed on the palace gate ahead, his expression resolute. Li Si'an and the other generals all wore solemn expressions, their chests unconsciously puffing out slightly, as if anticipating something.

Suddenly, the bell of the Imperial City Bell and Drum Tower was struck, its loud and melodious sound accompanied by the distinct rhythm of the drums, echoing throughout the entire city of Bianjing.

"The auspicious time has arrived—!" The eunuch Ding Zhaopu's sharp, drawn-out voice pierced through the bells and drums, reaching everyone's ears.

The massive vermilion palace gate of Xuande Gate creaked open as it was slowly pushed open by two rows of night watchmen, revealing the deep doorway behind it and the majestic palace in the distance.

The imperial procession led the way, with a dazzling array of banners, canopies, fans, flags, pennants, and ceremonial axes, all gleaming brilliantly in the winter sun.

All eyes were instantly drawn to the crowd, and a slight commotion arose, but it was quickly suppressed by an invisible discipline and expectation, turning into a deeper silence.

Following them were thirty-six court musicians dressed in crimson robes, who played the solemn and elegant music of "Taihe" to guide the procession.

Then came the most majestic and dazzling jade carriage, which slowly drove out and came to a stop under the watchful eyes of thousands.

The music paused at just the right moment.

In the utter silence, Xiao Yan stepped down from the jade carriage amidst the announcements of the master of ceremonies. He raised his hand, calmly waving away the master of ceremonies and eunuchs who tried to help him up, and stood alone in front of the carriage, his slender fingers gently pressing the jade belt hook on his waist.

Then, he slowly raised his head, his gaze passing over the dark mass of civil and military officials, envoys from all directions, palace servants and eunuchs standing respectfully with their heads bowed, and landing on the majestic palace towering above the steps.

At this moment, simply by standing here, he has become the sole center of heaven and earth.

Then, he stepped onto the laid-out vermilion imperial carpet and slowly walked towards the long, white marble steps. The sounds of chime bells and drums rang out again, rhythmically echoing through the palace, becoming the sole backdrop in this silent world. Among thousands of people, he alone walked steadily forward on this road leading to the highest position of power.

The civil and military officials below the imperial steps all held jade tablets. Following Xiao Yan's forward and upward figure, they slowly bowed and turned their bodies, their eyes always lowered in humility, expressing absolute awe and obedience.

The Empress, Ji Ruxue, the surrendered officials, Chi Meng, Shuliduo, Qianwu, Bago, Li Cunren, and other wives and concubines had already taken their seats in the viewing pavilion beside the hall. Chi Meng, seeing such a scene for the first time, couldn't help but tighten her grip on Ji Ruxue's hand, her small mouth slightly open, but daring not to utter a sound. Ji Ruxue sensed her nervousness and excitement, and gently squeezed her hand in return. Her beautiful face was focused, her gaze fixed solely on Xiao Yan as he walked step by step up the steps to the highest throne.

The Empress sat upright at the very front, her phoenix eyes fixed on the only figure in the world. Her hands were elegantly folded on her knees, but her knuckles tightened slightly due to the turmoil in her heart, revealing the turbulent emotions beneath her calm exterior.

The surrendered official fiddled with a strand of hair, gazing at the solemn scene below, his eyes somewhat unfocused, as if recalling something, occasionally letting out a smile.

Xiao Yan ascended to the highest point of the steps and arrived at the altar that had been prepared before the hall. Offerings were neatly arranged on the altar's table, and wisps of smoke rose from it. A master of ceremonies stepped forward, bowing and presenting a thick bundle of incense that had already been lit. Xiao Yan accepted it, facing the northern sky, solemnly bowed three times, and then steadily inserted the incense into the large bronze incense burner.

Han Yanhui stepped forward, unfolded the eulogy in his hand, and read it aloud:
"In the ninth year of Tianyou, the year of Renshen, on the first day of the first month, Guiyou, your successor, I, Zuo, dare to use a black ox to proclaim to the Supreme God of Heaven and the Gods of the Earth: I, Zuo, have received the Mandate of Heaven and inherited this great undertaking, but my virtue is meager, and I fear I am unworthy. Since the previous dynasty failed in its rule, the world has been in turmoil, heroes have risen up, and the people have suffered greatly. I, Zuo, despite my ignorance, have risen from humble beginnings, wielding my sword to sweep away the chaos and vow to cleanse the world..."

The eulogy was essentially a recounting of the Li Tang dynasty's past achievements, a lament for Emperor Zhaozong's tragic fate and the disintegration of the empire, and a recounting how, rising from hardship, the author carried on his father's legacy, eliminating rebellious forces, pacifying the Central Plains, subduing the northern barbarians, and ultimately securing the abdication of Emperor Liang. It then spoke of the people's suffering and the devastation of the land; of restoring order and achieving peace. Finally, it prayed to Heaven for the continuation of the Tang dynasty, for favorable weather, and for national prosperity and peace.

"...With this offering of silk and sacrificial offerings, along with various kinds of food, we prepare this sacrificial offering with utmost sincerity. We solemnly announce this to the Supreme God of Heaven. May you accept our offering!"

After the sacrificial text was recited, the firewood was lit, and the sacrificial offerings and jade were placed on the fire. The wisps of smoke rose straight into the azure sky, symbolizing that the message had reached the ears of the heavens.

Xiao Yan led the crowd of ten thousand people in the square to perform the three kneelings and nine kowtows.

After the ceremony, the bells and drums sounded again. Xiao Yan turned around and slowly walked towards the dragon throne in the center of the steps.

Jingxiang, holding a sandalwood box, bowed and stepped forward to present it.

"Please accept the imperial seal, Your Majesty—" Jing Xiang's voice trembled slightly, a rare occurrence, clearly showing his excitement.

Xiao Yan reached out and steadily lifted the imperial seal. Then, facing the officials below, he raised the seal high above his head to show it to all the officials and people. He then solemnly placed it on the imperial desk. Finally, he spread his sleeves and calmly sat down on the dragon throne.

"Kneel—" the official immediately drew out the word with all his might.

Beneath the imperial steps, the dense crowd, like wheat fields bent by the wind, knelt down in unison, foreheads touching the ground. The imperial guards also pounded their halberds on the ground, their armor clanging, kneeling in unison like a mountain.

Under the heavens, millions bow their heads.

"A roar of cheers—"

"Long live!"

"A roar of cheers—"

"Long live!"

"Come on!"

"Long live the Emperor!"

The sound waves were like thunder, rolling in and impacting the beams and pillars of the palace, as if the entire Jiao Lan Palace was trembling slightly before this supreme reverence.

Xiao Yan sat upright on his throne, receiving the overwhelming homage. His crown tassels swayed slightly, and his face, obscured by pearls and jade and the interplay of light and shadow from the sky, appeared blurred and distant, making it impossible for anyone to see him clearly.

The throne, high above, overlooked all the officials and people before it. Xiao Yan's gaze swept over Han Yanhui and Jing Xiang, over Wang Yanzhang and Li Si'an, over Chi Li and Yelü Yaoguang, and finally looked towards the streets and alleys of Bianjing, which were faintly visible outside the imperial city in the distance.

Du Xunhe bowed again, presented the edict of accession, and read it aloud:

"By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: I have heard that when Heaven and Earth change, the four seasons are formed; the revolutions of Tang and Wu were in accordance with Heaven and responded to the people. Since the fall of the Tang Dynasty, the world has been in turmoil; the Zhu Liang usurped the throne, and calamities followed one after another, plunging the people into misery, and ancestral temples nearly to ruins. I, the ninth son of Emperor Zhaozong, have endured hardship among the people for twenty-one years, inheriting the legacy of my ancestors and bearing the great grace of Heaven and Earth. Grieving for the collapse of the nation and the suffering of the people, I have risen up amidst the crisis, taking up my sword in the land of Yan and Cao."

With the loyalty of civil and military officials and the bravery of soldiers, we pacified the Liang dynasty internally and swept away the treacherous forces externally. We pacified Hebei and recovered Youyan, drove out the northern deserts and subdued the grasslands; we subdued Qi and Shu and brought peace to Ba and Shu, and subdued Raojiang and pacified the southern border. For several years, we braved wind and rain, how could we fear hardship and danger? We only wished to wipe away the shame of the nation and save the people from suffering.

Now, the usurpers have been eliminated, and the realm is at peace. Emperor Liang, knowing the mandate of heaven, reverently accepts the imperial seal and ribbon. The people, both Han and non-Han, support and uphold my throne. The mandate of heaven is clear, and the hearts of the people are irresistible. Therefore, on an auspicious day, I respectfully inform Heaven, Earth, and the ancestral temples, and ascend the throne, declaring the name of the empire as 'Tang,' and establishing the reign title Hongwu!

Having inherited the great mandate, I shall be mindful and fearful day and night, forever striving to govern with diligence and vigor; I shall practice frugality and dedicate myself to ensuring the well-being of the people. I shall promulgate a new policy and eradicate the abuses of leniency. A general amnesty shall be granted to the entire realm, allowing the people to begin anew. All criminals throughout the realm prior to the first day of the first month of the first year of Hongwu (1363), except for those guilty of the ten unpardonable crimes, shall be pardoned. This proclamation shall be made known far and wide—”

After the imperial edict was read, all the officials bowed again and shouted "Long live the Emperor!"

Then, Xiao Yan ordered all officials to rise. Du Xunhe then presented the second imperial edict.

Inside the viewing pavilion, apart from Chi Meng, who was not yet fully aware of the significance of the event, and Ji Ruxue, who remained indifferent, all the women's gazes sharpened slightly, their expressions varied, and they quietly held their breath.

After Du Xunhe unfolded the scroll, he began to recite it aloud:
"I have heard that governing both the internal and external affairs is the constant principle of the kingly way; establishing the heir apparent and the concubines is the great foundation of the state. Therefore, I hereby appoint you, Li Yunji, born into a noble family, to the royal court. Your virtue matches the heavens, and your merits are comparable to those of the founding emperor. Therefore, I appoint you Empress, with the title of Shengyi. Your concubine, Ruxue, is gentle and virtuous, and her conduct is in accordance with the law. Therefore, I appoint you Noble Consort. Your humble servants, Shushen and Chimeng, are dignified and composed, and Shuliduo, known for their respect and courtesy, are each appointed as Consort Shu, Consort De, and Consort Xian, respectively. Qianwu, Bago, and Li Cunren are appointed as Zhaoyi, Zhaorong, and Xiuyi..."

Subsequently, Yu Youshu, Miao Chengtian, Zhong Xiaokui, Guangmu Tian, ​​Yang Yantian, and others were all granted corresponding palace official positions, such as Shanggong, Shangyi, Gongzheng, and Shangfu.

A sage is one who understands and conforms to the Way of Heaven; a sage is one who thoroughly investigates the principles of things and fully realizes their nature; a sage is one whose voice resonates with the heart.

Gentle and virtuous is called Yi; gentle yet radiant is called Yi; harmonious and centered is called Yi.

Upon hearing her title, the Empress was slightly taken aback. She involuntarily clenched her robes above her knees, her eyes flashing intensely. She suddenly looked at the figure on the throne, her chest heaving slightly. Clearly, she had not expected Xiao Yan to bestow upon her such a supreme title, the meaning of which weighed heavily.

As for the Imperial Concubine, she held the same rank as the Empress. The Virtuous Concubine, the Virtuous Concubine, and the Noble Concubine were all ranked among the Four Concubines of the First Rank, holding extremely prestigious positions. Apart from Chi Meng, who was relatively simple-minded, the women's emotions were fluctuating and their expressions were subtle, which goes without saying.

Du Xunhe's voice did not stop; he continued to proclaim the imperial edict:

"The prince is wise and intelligent, and his talent is outstanding. He is naturally gifted and refined. According to historical records and in accordance with public opinion, he is granted the imperial seal and is established as the crown prince. He occupies the Eastern Palace to ensure the continuation of the dynasty for ten thousand years; he cares for the people and is the hope of the whole world."

"It is said that when a ruler ascends the throne, he must establish powerful vassal states to solidify the foundation of the nation; when a wise empress governs the country and its people, she must always cultivate close kinship ties to assist in achieving a peaceful and prosperous reign. Prince Li Dai, endowed with the virtuous qualities of heaven and earth and the brilliance of the sun and moon, is hereby granted the imperial seal and enfeoffed as the Prince of Chu. This is hereby decreed—"

The courtiers, once again following protocol, bowed deeply and offered their congratulations on the establishment of the nation's foundation.

Immediately afterwards, Du Xunhe brought out a third imperial edict, began to read it aloud, his voice already slightly hoarse, yet he still tried his best to keep it clear:

"The imperial edict reads: The merits of the founding of the nation must be recorded in the annals; the wise advisors should be honored here. Therefore, the 'Sun and Moon Tower' is hereby erected to depict the portraits of meritorious officials and commemorate their great deeds. Having erected this monument, further rewards and honors are bestowed. Based on their achievements, the titles and honors are now determined, to be proclaimed to the world and to serve as a model for future generations."

Wang Yanzhang was a pillar of the army who defeated Yan and attacked Jin. He was awarded the title of Duke of Lu, appointed as Privy Councilor, and concurrently served as Commander of the Palace Cavalry.
Han Yanhui was a strategist who devised plans to secure the country and made no mistakes. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Zhao and appointed as Grand Secretary.

Feng Dao was appointed to govern Hebei and manage grain supplies. He was credited with the same merits as Xiao He and was enfeoffed as Duke of Yan. He was also appointed as Right Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel.

Li Maozhen was the first to advocate righteousness and led the Qi people to submit to the Chinese. His contributions to the country were great. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Wei and appointed as Minister of Works.

Jingxiang assisted in military affairs, stabilized the old Liang dynasty, and wisely planned for the country. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Zheng and appointed as a Chancellor.
Li Ting was determined to implement new policies, rectify official corruption, and was upright and incorruptible. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Wei and appointed as Grand Censor.

Yuan Xingqin was stationed in the northern frontier, his power shook the grasslands, and he was enfeoffed as Duke of Ruyang and appointed as Right Guard General.

Yu Zhong was a skilled commander who repeatedly achieved military merits. He was enfeoffed as the Duke of Qiao and appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Palace Guard and the Right General of the Imperial Guard.
Tian Daocheng was commendable for his meritorious service in saving the emperor and for his loyalty and bravery. He was enfeoffed as the Duke of Julu and appointed as the General of the Left Guard.
Zhu Youwen, in charge of the Imperial Guard, investigated and apprehended suspects in all directions, and performed his duties diligently. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Chenliu County and appointed Commander of the Palace Guard and Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.
Li Si'an quelled the rebellion and destroyed Shu, achieving remarkable military exploits. He was enfeoffed as Duke of Xing County and appointed as General of the Left Guard.

Shi Hongzhao commanded the navy, managed the affairs of Sichuan and Chongqing, was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Runan County, and appointed as the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy;

Zhang Quanyi surrendered Luoyang, governed Henan, and set an example of submission. He was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Ji County and appointed Minister of Agriculture.

Yang She, a veteran official of three reigns, was highly respected and virtuous. He was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Hongnong County and appointed Minister of Works.
Duan Chengtian, a member of the Emperor's personal guard, made outstanding contributions and was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Qinghe County and appointed as the Deputy Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard.
Fu An, who was in charge of intelligence gathering in the northern deserts, made great contributions to the frontier and was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Boling County. He was also appointed as the Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard and head of the Northern Garrison.

"I believe that rewarding virtue and merit is the great way of emperors; bestowing titles and generous rewards is the constant practice of the state. Now that I have swept away all the evil influences and assumed the mandate of heaven, all my officials should be honored and bestowed with favor—"

One by one, names were read aloud, each accompanied by a brief description of their corresponding achievements. Wang Yanzhang, Li Maozhen, Yuan Xingqin, Yu Zhong, Tian Daocheng, and sixteen others were among the first to be enshrined in the Sun and Moon Tower, enjoying this special honor.

After the imperial edict was read aloud one by one, all the meritorious officials who were present at the ceremony and whose names were called stepped forward to kowtow and express their gratitude for the Emperor's grace. Each person's expression was different, some were excited, some were calm, and some were grateful, but they could not hide their glory.

As the first general of the Yuan Dynasty, Wang Yanzhang, who followed Xiao Yan in pacifying Hebei with eight hundred cavalry, was also worthy of being ranked first. Although his temperament had been tempered by the years and his status over the years and he had become much more composed, at this moment his tiger eyes were also gleaming with a sharp light, and he was quite proud. Fortunately, after taking a deep breath, he quickly suppressed his surging emotions.

The other civil and military officials, such as Xie Yanzhang, Zhao Siwen, Li Jichong, Wang Jingren, Gongyang Zuo, and He Gui, were all rewarded according to their merits. Wen Tao and Shangguan Yunque were also enfeoffed as marquises of their respective townships.

In addition, Xiao's father was posthumously honored as the Loyal and Valiant King, and Physician Lin was posthumously honored as the Loyal and Brave Duke.

Former generals from Liang, Shu, Qi, and Jin who surrendered, such as Zhang Wenwei, Du Xunhe, Kou Yanqing, Wang Tan, Wang Zongkan, Zhou Xiang, Zhang Ge, Guo Chongtao, Zhou Dewei, Fu Cunshen, Li Cunli, and Li Cunxiao, were also rewarded and resettled.

Among the leaders of the outer vassal states, Yelü Yaoguang was stripped of his title "King of the Northern Desert" and instead granted the title "Duke of Guiyi"; Chili was stripped of his title "King of the Southern Garrison" and instead granted the title "Duke of Qian," and was appointed to govern Yunnan hereditarily, but with a system of "combined local and imperial rule."

The final, crucial edict was personally read aloud by the newly appointed Chancellor, Han Yanhui:

"I, the Emperor, recognize the paramount importance of state affairs and the vital role of the eyes and ears of the state, and therefore deem it imperative to reform and innovate. The 'Night Scouts' are hereby renamed the 'Imperial Bodyguards,' responsible for guarding the Emperor, patrolling and apprehending criminals, gathering intelligence, and overseeing the Imperial Prisons. Zhu Youwen is appointed Commander of the Imperial Bodyguards, Duan Chengtian as Deputy Commander, and Fu An and Gongyang as Assistant Commanders. Li Mang and Wen Tao are appointed Garrison Commanders. Hou Qing, Ying Gou, and Han Ba ​​are granted the title of 'General Protector of the Nation,' with the rank of the third grade."

The edict then outlined the new dynasty's court structure, abolishing the Tiance Mansion and consolidating power in the hands of the Three Departments, Six Ministries, and the Privy Council. It clearly defined the new power structure centered on the Secretariat-Chancellery headed by Han Yanhui, Jing Xiang, and Feng Dao, the Privy Council headed by Wang Yanzhang, and the Censorate under Li Ting.

This series of ceremonies and edicts took a long time. As the sun rose higher, although there was a chill in the air, many elderly or emotionally charged ministers had beads of sweat on their foreheads, yet not one dared to slacken or lose their composure in the slightest.

In the afternoon, the imperial carriage set off again, moving to the Circular Mound Altar in the southern suburbs for a more solemn and formal ceremony to worship Heaven. The smoke from the burning firewood was more intense, the music and dance were more grand, and the procedures were more complex and solemn.

On the Circular Mound Altar, Xiao Yan prayed to Heaven and Earth once more, formally announcing to the Supreme God of Heaven the establishment of a new dynasty, named the Great Tang, with the reign title Hongwu.

When all the ceremonies were finally completed and the imperial carriage returned to the capital, the sun was already setting in the west, and the sky was filled with the glow of the sunset, which painted the palaces and buildings with a magnificent color.

An unprecedented new dynasty, amidst the afterglow of the setting sun and the rising dawn of tomorrow, burst through the torrent of history, rising slowly and unstoppably.

(End of this chapter)