The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 445 Liu Bei: I and Prime Minister Li have both completed the mission of this generation; the world belongs to you now (Bonus Chapter)

Meanwhile, the victory celebration banquet was still underway in a side hall of Weiyang Palace.

Amidst the clinking of glasses and the cacophony of laughter, the atmosphere was lively.

Jiang Wei, Xiahou Ba, and a group of other young generals were sitting around the old prime minister Li Yi and the crown prince Liu Shan.

Although he strictly adhered to the etiquette due to a subject, the excitement and anticipation for the future in his eyes were hard to conceal.

Li Yi held the wine cup but did not drink much.

Just listen quietly as Jiang Wei clearly and logically explains the decisions and gains and losses of several key battles during the campaign against Wei.

He would nod slightly at times, and occasionally ask one or two insightful questions.

Zhuge Liang sat beside Li Yi, gently waving his feather fan, looking at these rising stars with satisfaction.

It was as if I could see the future pillars of the Han Dynasty.

Just as the atmosphere was getting more and more heated, a series of hurried and disorderly footsteps came from afar, breaking the harmony in the hall.

A general dressed in imperial guard uniform, his face was deathly pale and his forehead was covered in sweat.

He rushed into the hall without regard for etiquette, his anxious gaze sweeping around before finally settling on Li Yi and Liu Shan.

Crown Prince Liu Shan was the first to notice something amiss. He put down his jade chopsticks, frowned, and asked:

"What's the commotion? How dare you disrupt this grand feast!"

The guard fell to his knees with a thud, his voice trembling uncontrollably:
"Your Highness the Crown Prince! Your Excellency the Prime Minister!"

"Your Majesty...His Majesty...is in the Xuan Shi Hall."

"I was so angry at the King of Wu... at His Highness Liu Yong that I vomited blood!"

"what?!"

These words were like a boulder thrown into a calm lake.

An uproar erupted inside the hall!

All the laughter and chatter came to an abrupt halt, replaced by the clatter of cups and plates hitting the ground and the gasps of the crowd.

Jiang Wei, Xiahou Ba, and the others suddenly stood up, their faces drained of color.

Zhuge Liang's feather fan froze in mid-air, a deep worry flashing in his eyes.

The guard, panting heavily, continued:

"Your Majesty...Your Majesty refused to summon the imperial physician, but...only issued a strict order to urgently summon Prime Minister Li to an audience immediately!"

Upon hearing this, Li Yi's previously calm face suddenly furrowed.

But he didn't immediately lose his composure; instead, he stood up abruptly and said in a deep voice:

"Everyone, follow me quickly to the Xuan Shi Hall!"

His voice wasn't loud, but it carried an undeniable decisiveness that instantly quelled the chaos in the hall.

Needless to say, the main figures included Li Yi and Liu Shan, as well as Zhuge Liang, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun, Pang Tong, Liu Ye, and other important civil and military officials.

Even the Third Prince Liu Li and Prince Yi Liu Feng, who rushed over upon hearing the news, hurriedly left their seats.

The group, though large and imposing, walked briskly through the palace corridors and headed straight for the Xuan Shi Hall, the most central and secluded hall deep within the palace.

At this moment, the atmosphere outside Xuan Shi Hall was solemn and oppressive.

The once empty square in front of the palace was now surrounded by more members of the royal family and meritorious veterans who had rushed to the scene after receiving the news.

People whispered among themselves, their faces showing alarm.

All eyes were focused on the tightly closed palace door, which seemed to separate life and death.

When Li Yi and his men arrived, they found a group of veteran generals, including General Zhang He and General Xu Chu.

They tried to break into the hall, but were firmly stopped by the resolute-faced guards on duty outside.

Zhang Fei, known for his fiery temper, glared at the sight.

He shoved the guard in front of him aside and roared:

"Get out of my way! I want to see my brother! Who dares to stop me!"

Although Guan Yu was relatively calm, his phoenix eyes were filled with anxiety, and his hand was already on his sword.

"Your Majesty's health is of paramount importance!"

"How dare you obstruct me?"

The leader of the secret guards knelt on one knee, but his tone was unusually resolute:

"Generals, please calm down! It is not that I am audacious."

"It is His Majesty's strict decree that only the Prime Minister is permitted to enter!"

"The rest of you are not allowed to enter the palace without an imperial edict."

"Anyone who disobeys... shall be executed!"

The final word "斩" (cut/slay) carried a chilling, iron-blooded quality, instantly silencing the restless crowd.

Seeing that the situation was about to get out of control, Zhuge Liang quickly stepped forward.

He first bowed to Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and others.

Then he turned to the crowd, his voice clear and strong:
"Everyone! Please calm down!"

"His Majesty is currently suffering from emotional distress and needs to rest."

"If we rush in all at once, our breaths will be disordered and our words will be noisy."

"Not only will it not alleviate His Majesty's worries, it will also disturb His Majesty's health."

"It's detrimental to the patient's condition!"

"The most urgent task is to obey His Majesty's will and wait patiently for news outside!"

Zhuge Liang gained considerable prestige in the army and in the court thanks to his achievement in destroying Wei.

These words were like pouring a ladle of cold water into a boiling pot of oil.

This temporarily suppressed the restless emotions of the crowd.

Li Yi gave Zhuge Liang an approving look, then gave the order:
"...Kongming is absolutely right."

"You shall take charge of this place and appease the people."

"We must maintain order and prevent any further incidents."

Zhuge Liang bowed and accepted the order:
"Rest assured, Lord Yi, I will do my utmost."

At this moment, Crown Prince Liu Shan and Third Prince Liu Li stepped forward simultaneously.

Liu Shan's face was full of worry and anxiety:

"Prime Minister, Father Emperor..."

"Let me go in with you! I'm really worried about you!"

Liu Li followed closely behind, his tone earnest:

"Yes, Uncle, Father has suddenly fallen seriously ill."

"How can we, as sons, stand idly outside the palace?"

How can I live with myself like this?

Li Yi's gaze swept over the two princes, especially lingering on Liu Li's face for a moment.

His eyes were as deep as an ancient pool, revealing no emotion.

He remained silent for a moment, as if weighing something.

Finally, he slowly shook his head, his tone leaving no room for doubt:

"...Your Highness the Crown Prince, Your Highness the Third Prince."

"Since Your Majesty has clearly decreed that you will only see this old minister, there must be a deeper meaning behind it."

"At this moment, obeying the will of the gods is the greatest act of filial piety."

"You two are the heir apparent and a vassal king, respectively. You must remain calm at all times and appease both the internal and external forces."

"How can we afford to lose our composure?"

He paused, then looked around at everyone, raising his voice slightly.

The voice carried a strange, soothing power.

"Rest assured, everyone. His Majesty is the Son of Heaven, blessed with boundless fortune."

"He is by no means a person of ill fortune and short lifespan, and would never have his life in danger because of this matter."

"Your Majesty is a great ruler who founded an empire, and his determination is beyond the reach of ordinary people."

"Everyone...has confidence in dealing with His Majesty."

These words both pointed out the advantages and disadvantages and offered hope.

This brought some peace of mind to the anxious people around them.

Then, Li Yi turned to Dong Yun, the Crown Prince's tutor, who was standing to the side, and instructed him:

"Xiu Zhao, go to the Imperial Medical Bureau immediately."

"Please invite Mr. Hua Tuo Yuanhua and Mr. Zhang Ji Zhongjing to come together. Tell them to wait quietly in the side room outside the hall."

"Be ready to be summoned at any time, and do not fail!"

"Yes, sir!"

Dong Yun dared not delay and immediately turned and ran away.

After making the arrangements, Li Yi no longer hesitated.

I straightened my clothes and took a deep breath.

Alone, he pushed open that heavy palace door, which seemed to bear the weight of the empire's fate and the emperor's joys and sorrows.

I stepped into that dark and silent place.

Inside the hall, the light grew increasingly dim.

A faint, almost imperceptible smell of blood filled the air.

The throne, which once symbolized supreme authority, now appears particularly lonely in the shadows.

Liu Bei did not sit on the throne, but instead slumped down on the steps in front of it.

The front of the dragon robe was still stained with some dark red bloodstains.

He had his head down, his white hair disheveled.

That once straight and upright back is now hunched over, as if it had been completely crushed by an invisible burden.

Hearing footsteps, he slowly raised his head.

Li Yi approached slowly, his steps steady.

He walked right up to Liu Bei and then bent down.

In an almost equal, friend-like manner, he said softly:
"Your Majesty, your old minister Li Yi... has arrived."

Liu Bei's cloudy gaze focused on Li Yi's face, his eyes slightly moist, revealing a rare vulnerability.

He did not inquire about the situation outside, nor did he mention his illness.

He murmured in a voice filled with endless sorrow and weariness:

"Yong'er... is gone..."

These four short words fully express the heartache and helplessness of being a father.

Liu Bei did not have many descendants.

Liu Shan, Liu Yong, and Liu Li, the three sons born before he became emperor, were the ones who followed him through the difficult period of starting his career, so their bond was naturally the strongest.

Although he had several more sons after becoming emperor, they were either too young or had been enfeoffed as princes and given their fiefdoms at a young age.

There was ultimately an emotional barrier between them.

Therefore, Liu Bei's emotional attachment to his offspring was mainly placed on his four sons, who were to be enshrined in the Fengshan and Yongli ceremonies.

The princes who followed were all born to Liu Bei late in life, and they were sent to distant vassal states at a young age, so their relationship with him was relatively weaker.

More importantly, the first few princes were obtained during the most difficult time of Liu Bei's rise to power.

It's as if Liu Bei received these children during the most stressful time of his life.

The birth of life always brings hope.

Liu Bei's love for them was not merely a father's affection.

It is also an emotional attachment to lost youth.

Liu Yong's crazy words and actions today, and his resolute departure, are like a poisonous thorn.

It deeply penetrated the softest part of Liu Bei's heart.

Li Yi sighed inwardly and offered words of comfort:

"Your Majesty must rouse your spirits and take care of your health."

"The vast land of the Han Dynasty and its hundreds of millions of people still need Your Majesty to steer and guide it."

Liu Bei shook his head, his voice hoarse:
"I... am already old."

"This world ultimately belongs to the young."

He paused for a moment, as if realizing something, and then added:

"The world was naturally conquered by us through hard work."

"But ultimately, it must be handed over to the young people."

He looked at Li Yi, his eyes filled with complex emotions.

There is dependence, there is emotion, and there is also a hint of melancholy in the twilight of a hero.

He reached out and gripped Li Yi's wrist tightly; the hand was cold and trembling slightly.

"We...are getting old..."

He seemed lost in distant memories, and murmured:

"Prime Minister Li...do you still remember back then..."

"When we first pacified Luoyang and began rebuilding this palace, you once said to me—"

"We, as people of this generation, can have a clear conscience if we can fulfill our mission in this era."

"...Prime Minister Li, in your opinion..."

"Have I... fulfilled my mission?"

Li Yi grasped Liu Bei's cold hand in return, his tone firm and sincere:
"Why did your Majesty say this?"

"Your Majesty's achievements are unprecedented and unparalleled; they are far more than just fulfilling a mission."

"Since the Yellow Turban Rebellion, the world has fallen apart."

"Your Majesty rose from humble beginnings, raising an army of righteous men with a three-foot sword."

"Conquer Xuzhou and defeat Huainan."

"Sweep away the Yuan family in Hebei and pacify the Gongsun family in Liaodong."

"Stabilize the Central Plains and Henan, and recover the lost territory of Jingzhou."

"Finally destroy the kingdoms of Wu and Wei, and unify the world!"

"With such martial arts skills, even if Emperor Gaozu slew the white snake to start a rebellion, and Emperor Guangwu restored the Han Dynasty, it would be impossible."

"Even they may not be able to match His Majesty's great achievements!!"

He paused and continued:

"In terms of politics, Your Majesty has opened the imperial examination system to promote people from humble backgrounds."

"Establish markets to facilitate trade and stabilize prices."

"Reform the currency system to benefit the people's livelihood, and change the military supervision system to consolidate military power."

"Vigorously crack down on corruption and establish the Embroidered Uniform Guard to investigate treacherous officials..."

"All of these measures are beneficial for generations to come."

"Your Majesty's great achievements will surely be recorded in history and remembered for all time!"

As Liu Bei listened, a bitter and complex smile appeared on his face, and he shook his head:

"Hearing what you say, Prime Minister Li, it seems as if all these achievements were orchestrated by you alone?"

Li Yi remained calm and answered without hesitation:
"Therefore, this old minister can also say that he has fulfilled the mission of his generation."

"Moreover, as the old saying goes, 'When a ruler and his ministers meet, they are as close as fish and water.'"

"Emperor Wu of Han was a man of great talent and strategy, yet he lacked the trust and confidence of his people."

"Even if Marquis Changping and Huo Piaoyao possess extraordinary abilities, how could they have achieved such unparalleled feats as sealing the wolf's lair and driving the barbarians out of the northern desert?"

"And these illustrious achievements will be recorded in history—"

"How could anyone attribute it solely to Wei Qing and Huo Qubing, while ignoring Emperor Wu's grand ambitions?"

"Your Majesty and I are the same."

"If Your Majesty had not been so open and trusting of me, and had not entrusted me with power..."

"Over the years, I have been unable to fully utilize my knowledge and accomplish all the things I have wanted to do."

"Your Majesty's trust is the foundation upon which I am able to fulfill my mission."

These words not only affirmed each other's achievements, but also highlighted the essence of the harmonious and mutually supportive relationship between ruler and subject.

The past events are still vivid in my mind: the hardships of starting a business and the joy of success.

And the excruciating pain brought on by Liu Yong at this moment, all sorts of emotions intertwined.

This further strained Liu Bei's already fragile mental defenses.

He remained steadfast throughout his life, and since becoming emperor, he never shed a tear in public again.

Because the emperor could not show weakness.

An emperor must never show his vulnerable side in front of his subjects.

That's why he only allowed Li Yi to enter.

Only Li Yi is the exception!

At this moment, he stood before Li Yi, his old brother who was both a minister and a friend, and who had been by his side for decades.

The taut string in Liu Bei's heart finally snapped completely.

Liu Bei could no longer hold back his tears.

He lunged forward and buried his head in Li Yi's shoulder.

Like a child who has suffered countless injustices, she has found someone to rely on and bursts into tears.

The cries were sorrowful and suppressed, filled with the helplessness and heartbreak of a father and an emperor.

Li Yi neither dodged nor offered any further words of comfort; he simply stood there quietly.

A hand gently patted Liu Bei's trembling back as he wept.

Just like many years ago when they fought side by side and supported each other.

At this moment, he was not the prime minister, and Liu Bei was not the emperor.

They were just two elderly people who had experienced many hardships and shared their pain.

I do not know how long it has been,

Liu Bei's crying gradually subsided, turning into low sobs.

He slowly raised his head and wiped the tears from his face with his sleeve.

Although her eyes were red and swollen, her emotions seemed much more stable.

He sat up straight again and remained silent for a moment.

Finally, the most crucial and difficult question was asked:
"Prime Minister Li... in your opinion..."

"Yong'er... how should this matter be handled?"

Li Yi hesitated for a long time before cautiously replying:
"Your Majesty, the crime committed by Liu Yong, the King of Wu, is treason."

"According to the law, he should be severely punished without leniency, however..."

"He is, after all, His Majesty's flesh and blood, and this involves the internal affairs of the imperial family."

"This is a family matter of Your Majesty, and I... am not in a position to make any unwarranted comments."

Liu Bei gripped Li Yi's hand tightly, his gaze intense:
"I regard you as my own brother, why should I distinguish between us?"

"There are no outsiders here, so please speak freely!"

"I want to hear your true feelings!"

Li Yi met Liu Bei's gaze and slowly said:
"Your Majesty has already made up your mind, so why ask this old minister again?"

His tone was calm, yet every word carried immense weight.

"If Your Majesty wishes to ensure the stability of the Han dynasty, a smooth transition of power between the two generations, and the absence of further internal strife and setbacks..."

"Then we must... set an example for all people."

"Under the law, there is no room for personal feelings."

"This was Your Majesty's original intention when you and your ministers jointly established laws and regulations."

Upon hearing this, Liu Bei's body trembled violently.

Then, as if all her strength had been drained, she slumped backward.

He looked up at the intricate and dark patterns on the ceiling of the palace.

a long time,

He let out a long, heavy sigh, filled with endless sorrow and helplessness.

finally,
He seemed to have used his last bit of strength to speak, his voice weak but clear:
"A draft edict was issued... stripping the rebellious son Liu Yong of his title of King of Wu... demoting him to a commoner..."

"Exiled to Lingnan... pardoned even if granted..."

"Depart immediately, without delay..."

After issuing this order, which nearly severed the bond between father and son, Liu Bei seemed to age ten years in an instant.

I don't even have the strength to sit up straight.

He waved wearily, his voice barely audible:
"I... am weary and wish to sit alone for a while..."

"Prime Minister Li, you may leave now..."

"This old minister... takes his leave."

Li Yi bowed deeply, said no more, and silently withdrew from the Xuan Shi Hall.

The palace doors opened again, and the crowd waiting outside immediately surrounded them.

Zhang Fei and Guan Yu, leading the charge, asked urgently:

"Prime Minister Li! How is my elder brother (His Majesty)?!"

Liu Shan and Liu Li also looked at him with anxious expressions.

Li Yi remained calm and first addressed the crowd:

"His Majesty is not seriously injured for the time being, but he is exhausted and needs to rest."

He then turned to Hua Tuo and Zhang Zhongjing, who had been waiting for a long time.

"Gentlemen, His Majesty has summoned you. Please come in immediately to examine His Majesty."

Hua Tuo and Zhang Zhongjing hurriedly carried their medicine boxes into the hall.

Upon seeing this, Liu Feng, Liu Shan, Liu Li, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and others wanted to follow them inside.

Li Yi glanced around, his voice not loud, but carrying an undeniable authority:
"His Majesty needs to rest. You shall all wait outside the palace. No one may enter without an imperial edict!"

Strangely enough, even Zhang Fei, the most impulsive of them all, calmed down after meeting Li Yi's calm yet profound gaze.

They actually stopped in their tracks.

Everyone seemed to be frozen in place, obediently remaining where they were.

At this moment, Li Yi took out a scroll of imperial edict that had just been drafted by the eunuch based on Liu Bei's oral instructions from his sleeve, and said loudly:
"His Majesty has a written edict here!"

Everyone immediately stood at attention and listened.

The imperial edict reads: "I have received the mandate of Heaven and rule over the four seas."

“He was vigilant day and night, with the ancestral temple and the state always on his mind.”

"Then Liu Yong, the King of Wu, was granted a fiefdom and entrusted with the responsibility of protecting the borders."

Instead of devoting himself to serving the country, he harbored the heart of a treacherous beast.

"He secretly amassed military forces in Shu County and privately formed cliques along the border."

"They even imprisoned their own brothers, coveted the imperial artifacts, and plotted to launch a military invasion, nearly endangering the very foundation of the empire."

"Such rebellious acts are intolerable to Heaven and Earth, and are abhorred by both gods and men."

“In the past, the Zhou dynasty punished Guan and Cai to rectify the social order.”

"The Han dynasty quelled the rebellion of the seven kingdoms and secured peace for the state."

"Now, in accordance with the laws and regulations of our ancestors and following the established court rules, the imperial edict is hereby issued:—"

"Liu Yong was stripped of his title of King of Wu, removed from the imperial clan register, and demoted to a commoner."

"All official documents and seals were confiscated and brought to the court."

"His private guards in his residence were all dismissed."

"The ringleader of the rebellion should be severely punished by the relevant authorities in accordance with the law."

"A special edict states that if he is pardoned but not granted one, he shall be exiled to Lingnan immediately and never be allowed to return."

"Local officials should be strictly supervised, and anyone who shows any unusual behavior should be killed without exception."

"Alas! The bond between father and son is a natural one."

"The bond between ruler and subject is of paramount importance to the state." "How could I bear to let personal feelings override public law, or let petty favors ruin grand plans?"

"Announce it to the whole world, and let everyone know."

"From now on, all princes should abide by the rules of their domains and not repeat the mistakes of the past."

“So ordered!!”

The contents of the imperial edict were like a cold wind blowing, though everyone had anticipated it.

But hearing the final verdict with my own ears still left me with a sigh of regret and a complex expression.

As Li Yi read the imperial edict, his gaze, seemingly intentionally or unintentionally, swept across the face of the Third Prince Liu Li once again.

That gaze held scrutiny, and even more so, a silent warning.

Liu Li felt that gaze and his body stiffened slightly.

He then lowered his head deeply, staring at the tips of his shoes, and fell into a long silence, not uttering a word.

This stern edict targeting his second brother was also a warning to him and to all those who might harbor disloyal intentions.
Li Yi put away the imperial edict, looked around at everyone, and his tone returned to its usual composure:

"His Majesty was frightened by today's events, and everyone here has also worked hard."

"Now all of you may disperse and return to your residences to rest well."

"I still need to attend court on time tomorrow to handle state affairs."

Upon hearing this, although everyone was still concerned about the emperor's condition, they also knew that staying here would be of no use.

With heavy hearts, they bowed and silently dispersed.

The clamor subsided, and the palace corridors returned to silence.

Li Yi's eldest son, Li Zhi, silently stepped forward and took his father's arm.

He had just returned to Luoyang because he needed to appease the Shu region.

In fact, after learning that the imperial court was going to appoint him as General of the Cavalry.

They immediately set off for Luoyang.

Li Yi nodded slightly, and with his son's support, he walked with a slightly unsteady gait.

They walked slowly toward the Prime Minister's residence outside the palace.

The setting sun cast long shadows upon the imperial palace, which had just weathered an internal storm.

It looked particularly desolate.

As dusk settled, the lights of thousands of homes in Luoyang gradually came on.

In contrast to the still somber and desolate atmosphere within the imperial palace, the Prime Minister's residence, located in the heart of the capital, was now brightly decorated.

There was an overwhelming sense of joy and celebration.

Supported by Li Zhi, Li Yi stepped into the mansion with slightly heavy steps.

The political turmoil and palace upheavals he experienced in a single day left him with a deep, unyielding weariness on his brow.

However, the sight before him upon entering the main hall surprised him slightly.

The hall was brightly lit, and a huge nanmu wood dining table was laden with delicacies.

The maids and servants standing around all had smiles on their faces, and the atmosphere was lively.

His wives included Yuan Ying, Mi Zhen, Zhen Mi, Lü Lingqi, and Tao Hong.

Along with his children, all dressed in their finest attire, they were already waiting there.

"This is……"

Li Yi looked around at the overly lavish banquet and then glanced at his wife, Yuan Ying, with a hint of doubt.

"Today is neither a New Year's Day nor my birthday, so why is the banquet so grand?"

Madam Yuan Ying was born into the Yuan clan of Runan.

Although she is nearly fifty years old, she still looks elegant and dignified.

She stepped forward and explained with a smile:
"Have you forgotten, my husband?"

"Today, the court bestows honors upon my son, Li Zhi, who is deeply grateful for His Majesty's grace."

He was promoted to General of the Cavalry, with a rank equivalent to the Three Dukes.

"This is a great honor for the Li family. How can we not hold a banquet to celebrate?"

All eyes immediately focused on Li Zhi.

Li Zhi was only twenty-seven or twenty-eight years old, with a handsome face, much like his father.

But his eyes held a maturity beyond his years, even an excessive caution.

Upon hearing his mother's words, he immediately bowed and said in a humble, even somewhat self-deprecating tone:

"...Mother is too kind."

"I have made some minor contributions during my time accompanying the army into Sichuan."

"However, the position of General of the Cavalry is extremely prestigious, and it is truly beyond my current ability and virtue to match."

"The imperial court's generous reward is probably... probably mostly due to Father's assistance in establishing the country and his high moral standing."

"Your son... truly benefits from your father's good fortune."

His words overflowed with admiration for his father, yet also revealed a habitual self-reflection and humility.

Li Yi looked at his eldest son, on whom he had placed great hopes, with a deep gaze.

He did not immediately refute, but remained silent for a moment before slowly speaking, his voice steady and powerful:
“In dealing with children, excessive modesty borders on hypocrisy.”

"As a father in the court, I certainly had some influence."

"However, Your Majesty and the court reward merits and punish demerits according to laws and regulations, and are by no means entirely based on personal feelings."

"On your way into Shu, you offered a plan to cut off the enemy's supply lines."

"He went alone to capture the King of Wu and win over the hearts of the people of Shu."

"He personally braved arrows and stones to stabilize the morale of the army; all of this was witnessed by the generals."

"The military reports are available, and the achievements are true."

"The title of General of the Cavalry may be due to the court's favor towards my father."

"However, the foundation still lies in your own efforts and abilities."

He paused, his gaze sweeping over all the family members present, before finally settling on Li Zhi's face.

He spoke clearly, in an unprecedented tone, filled with obvious approval and emotion:

"You have achieved this position, and I am deeply gratified."

"Zhi'er, I am so proud of you."

With this remark,
The entire hall fell silent instantly, as if even the air itself had frozen.

Li Zhi suddenly raised his head, looking at his father in disbelief, his eyes slightly reddening.

This brief affirmation felt like something he had been waiting for all his life.

The rest of the family members, including the wives and other children, all wore genuine smiles of joy.

The ladies, including Mi Zhen, Zhen Mi, and Lü Lingqi, exchanged smiles, their eyes filled with a mixture of relief and emotion.

They knew very well that Li Yi was a strict and taciturn person.

It is no easy feat to express such straightforward praise to one's children.

The eldest daughter, Li Yi, was twenty-nine years old.

Intelligent and bright, with a lively personality.

At this moment, she excitedly stepped forward, affectionately taking her brother Li Zhi's arm, her smile radiant:
"Brother, did you hear that? Father himself praised you!"

"It seems that the heavy responsibility of bringing glory to our Li family and supporting this vast family business will fall on your shoulders, brother!"

Li Zhi had calmed down somewhat from his excitement, and upon hearing this, he said seriously:
"...Sister Yi, please don't joke around."

"The prosperity of the family is the responsibility of everyone, and it truly rests on our shoulders."

"However, the road ahead is long and arduous, and the task will be difficult."

"Our mission has only just begun, and we must not slacken in the slightest."

His tone was sincere, and his gaze was firm.

Seeing this, the second son, Li Ping, the third son, Li An, and the fourth son, Li Tai, also stepped forward and said in unison:
“Brother is absolutely right! We will certainly study diligently and strive for a career in government.”

"I will follow my elder brother's lead and never fail my father's and family's expectations!"

Seeing his children so motivated and united, Li Yi stroked his beard and nodded, a rare smile of relief appearing on his face:

"If you all have this mindset, know how to make progress, and support each other, then I can rest assured."

He changed the subject and his tone became serious.

"Tomorrow at the morning court, His Majesty will bestow a second round of rewards, mainly targeting the middle and lower-ranking generals and civil officials who have made contributions to this Northern Expedition."

"At that time, I intend to..."

“Introduce Ping’er, An’er, and Tai’er together to the court to serve as officials.”

"what?"

Upon hearing this, not only were Li Ping, Li An, and Li Tai stunned on the spot, but their faces also showed astonishment.

Even the ladies Yuan Ying and Zhen Mi, as well as Li Zhi and Li Yi, were quite surprised.

Although the Li family wielded immense power and influence, making them arguably the most powerful family in the court, they were still a formidable force.

However, Li Yi was extremely strict in managing his household and always maintained a cautious, even harsh, attitude towards his sons entering officialdom.

He often said, "If one's virtue is not commensurate with one's position, disaster will surely follow."

They required their children to undergo rigorous training and become proficient in practical matters.

Only with his approval can one embark on an official career.

Even the most outstanding eldest son, Li Zhi, had spent many years gaining experience outside the capital.

After working his way up from the grassroots level in counties and prefectures, accumulating sufficient political reputation and experience, he finally achieved his goal.

Only with Li Yi's approval did he officially enter the court's field of vision, and he made a name for himself with this military achievement.

Now, Li Yi is behaving completely out of character.

He planned to send all three of his young and inexperienced sons into the imperial court at once.

This truly surprised everyone.

Li Yi took in the surprised looks on his family's faces and gently tapped the table.

The tone turned serious, carrying a warning connotation:
"Don't think that just because you've entered the court, you can easily rise to a high position like your brother."

"Entering the court is only the beginning."

"The three of you will still need to start from the lowest levels, such as Gentleman of the Palace, Attendant, or even Local Assistant."

"Be familiar with government affairs, understand the people's sentiments, accumulate experience, and temper your character."

"The path to officialdom is like walking on thin ice."

“One wrong step can ruin not only one’s own future, but also the reputation of one’s family.”

"Can you possibly do that?"

Upon hearing this, Li Ping, Li An, and Li Tai felt a chill run down their spines.

Immediately suppressing the slight restlessness that had arisen from their unexpected joy, they bowed in unison and solemnly replied:

"Your son will heed your teachings, Father! I will certainly be dutiful and conscientious in my duties."

"I would never dare to rely on my family background. I will start from humble beginnings and live up to my father's expectations!"

Li Yi then nodded slightly.

At this moment, seeing that her elder brothers had all made arrangements, Li Yi nestled close to her father, tugged at his sleeve, and said sweetly:

"Father, my elder brothers and younger brothers are all able to enter the court as officials and serve the country."

"My daughter is also willing to share the burdens of the court!"

"I have heard that there is a position of 'Female Doctor' in the palace, who is in charge of the classics and teaches the palace staff."

"He could even lecture to empresses and princesses."

“My daughter has been studying since she was a child. I wouldn’t say she is extremely learned, but she is well-versed in the classics and history.”

"When will Father make some plans for his daughter, so that she can also become a female PhD?"

Looking at his beloved daughter's charming yet earnest expression, Li Yi pondered for a long time before not directly answering her question.

Instead, she changed the subject, her tone gentle yet carrying a subtle, almost imperceptible, deeper meaning:

"Yi'er, you are getting older."

"Logically speaking, she should have been betrothed to someone and found a good match long ago."

"It's just that I've always respected your wishes and didn't want to force you, so I've delayed until now."

"Now... do you have someone in mind? Please speak freely."

Upon hearing this, Li Yi's pretty face flushed slightly, then she shook her head vigorously, her tone resolute:
"No! My daughter stays in the mansion all day, and all she sees are spoiled brats."

"Or they are all flatterers, none of them can catch my eye."

Sitting to the side, her mother, Zhen Mi, couldn't help but interject.

She remained beautiful, and spoke with a gentle air:
"Yi'er, there are so many talented young men in the capital!"

“The Guan family, the Zhang family, the Zhao family, and even the imperial family.”

"There are so many talented people out there, how can you look down on just one of them?"

"Men should marry when they are of age, and women should marry when they are of age."

"This is a matter of basic human decency; how can it be treated lightly?"

Li Yi pouted, a hint of girlish stubbornness and almost blind adoration for her father in her expression, and raised her head, saying:

"Unless...unless that person can be like Father."

"One can govern the country with civil skills and secure its stability with military force."

"Possessing strategic wisdom and having the world at heart."

"He also knows how to respect his wife and love his children..."

"If we cannot find such a person, my daughter would rather not marry!"

She paused, and seeing that her mother seemed about to refute her, she said something even more surprising.

“If Mother insists on forcing her daughter, then…then the daughter will go to the White Horse Temple in the west of the city.”

"Shave off these three thousand strands of hair that cause trouble, and spend the rest of my life with only a green lamp and an ancient Buddha!"

"You...you child!"

"How could you utter such treasonous words!"

Zhen Mi was so angry at her daughter's words that her eyebrows furrowed, but she was helpless.

Seeing this, Li Yi waved his hand, indicating that Zhen Mi did not need to be angry. He then addressed the people in the hall:

"The banquet is over for today. If you have eaten your fill, please go back to your rooms and rest."

Everyone had their own thoughts as they heard the patriarch speak.

However, they all tactfully rose, bowed, and left the main hall one by one.

After a while,

In the vast hall, only Li Yi and his four wives remained.

After the children left, the atmosphere in the hall eased a little.

Zhen Mi took a sip of tea, finally unable to contain herself, and looked at Li Yi, asking softly:

"My husband just brought up Yi'er's marriage. I observed your expression."

"But... you've already made up your mind?"

Li Yi did not answer immediately, but instead looked out at the deep night outside the window, as if he was organizing his thoughts.

a long time,

He spoke slowly, his voice carrying a profound sense of having a comprehensive understanding of the situation:
"Since I gradually relinquished power and turned my energy to planning the long-term system of the country, the primary focus has been on the imperial examination system for selecting officials."

He paused and continued:

"The imperial examination system was ostensibly established to select virtuous and capable individuals for the country."

"But its deeper meaning lies in opening up a path for talented people from poor families to advance in society."

"This move aims to break with centuries of tradition—"

"The monopoly of aristocratic families on official careers, knowledge, and public opinion."

"For a country, attracting talents from all over the world is the only way to maintain its vitality and ensure its long-term prosperity."

Next, Li Yi elaborated on the harm that the excessive expansion of the power of aristocratic families and clans had to the state apparatus:

They used their power to seize land, causing people to be displaced.

They concealed the population, evaded taxes and corvée labor, and weakened the power of the imperial court.

They intermarry to form a community of shared interests and control local and even central government power.

It could even undermine imperial power, creating a situation where the emperor becomes too powerful to control.

Sitting to the side, Lü Lingqi, who came from a military family and had a straightforward personality, listened with a mixture of understanding and confusion, and couldn't help but ask:

"My husband has said so much, could it be that you want to..."

"Should we completely eliminate those powerful clans?"

When she asked this question, Yuan Ying, Mi Zhen, Zhen Mi and the others were taken aback at first, and then they couldn't help but smile.

Mi Zhen smiled and shook her head, saying:
"...Sister, you are mistaken."

"Never forget, our Li family is now the most prominent family in the world."

"Although my husband has always advocated for curbing and suppressing the excessive expansion of aristocratic families, he has never mentioned eradicating them."

"It should be known that within all families..."

"If a person can be appointed to a high position, and the family can benefit from his protection and management, the family can prosper for three or four generations without decline."

"After three or four generations, they will become a new aristocratic family."

"This is due to human nature and the ways of the world; how can it be easily eradicated?"

Li Yi gave Mi Zhen an approving look and continued:
“…Zhen’er is absolutely right.”

“Eradicating aristocratic families is neither possible nor the best approach.”

"The only way is to seek a way to coexist and to try to form a pattern in which multiple entities stand side by side and check each other."

"I dare say, let alone my dynasty."

"Even looking at the past, present, and future, this problem will be difficult to solve completely within at least five thousand years."

"Human nature is driven by self-interest, and the protection of family is innate."

"What we can do is not to go against the will of Heaven, but to follow the trend."

"To weaken, as much as possible, the monopoly of aristocratic families over key means of production such as land, population, and official careers."

"Continuously strengthen central authority so that the imperial power and the court can be above all other powers."

"Only in this way can the forces of all parties be balanced."

Zhen Mi, being the most meticulous, was the first to react, a knowing glint flashing in her beautiful eyes:

"My husband just said that they can only 'coexist' or 'check each other'..."

"My concubine understands."

"You mean...?"

"Proactively support a few families with decent character and who know how to conduct themselves properly."

"So that it can prosper for a long time and form a tripartite balance with my family and several other families."

"Mutual restraint and interdependence?"

"Then, through the imperial examination system, talented people from humble backgrounds were continuously brought into the court."

"Gradually dilute and reduce the influence of the old aristocratic families?"

Li Yi's eyes showed appreciation, and he nodded, saying:

"...Indeed, that is exactly what I meant."

"If one or two powerful families become too dominant, they will inevitably become a major threat to the country."

"However, if several powerful families of similar strength coexist, they will compete with each other and supervise each other."

"The opposition can, to some extent, promote clean governance and national progress."

"Since neither side can completely overpower the other, they need to compete in terms of political achievements, talent, and moral character."

"In order to win the support of the imperial power and public opinion."

"Thus, a dynamic balance is formed."

Mi Zhen suddenly realized and chimed in:
"So... my husband hopes to arrange marriages between my Li family and other promising families."

"Actively forge several relatively stable alliances, thereby giving rise to several powerful aristocratic groups that can coexist for a long time and check and balance each other?"

Li Yi said frankly:
"……good."

"This is a strategy of fighting poison with poison, and using powerful families to control other powerful families."

"While not perfect, it is the most feasible strategy at present."

Zhen Mi returned to the initial question and pressed further:

"Then...where does my husband intend to marry Yi'er?"

"The Guan, Zhang, and Zhao families are all veterans and meritorious officials, and their family traditions are strict."

"Or perhaps...the Liu family?"

She paused slightly, then said, "Given the current power of my Li family, it is not impossible for us to form a marriage alliance with the royal family."

Li Yi slowly shook his head:

"...No conclusion has been reached yet."

"This matter concerns Yi'er's lifelong happiness and the long-term plans of the family, so we must be extremely careful."

"Although I have this intention, in the end, I will respect Yi'er's own wishes."

He abruptly changed the subject, his tone becoming unusually firm.

"However, the selection range must be limited to the aristocratic circle."

“I will never allow her to fall in love with a commoner.”

Upon hearing this, all the ladies fell silent.

They knew that Li Yi's thinking was already extremely enlightened and progressive in many ways.

He was almost stubbornly insistent on the idea of ​​"marrying someone of equal social standing".

This is not simply vanity or snobbery, but stems from his profound understanding of the power structure of this era.

And realistic considerations regarding the long-term safety and influence of the family.

In his view, marriages that transcend social classes are problematic.

In the current environment, it is difficult to form a stable alliance.

On the contrary, it may trigger unnecessary risks and turmoil.

The candlelight flickered in the hall, illuminating the various expressions on the faces of the people present.

a long time,

Li Yi seemed unwilling to continue this heavy topic, and he looked up at the wine that had not yet been removed from the table.

A rare hint of relief appeared on his face as he smiled at the ladies:

"Today, Zhi'er is promoted, which is an honor for our family. It is a good day."

“Normally, I have restrained you from drinking alcohol, but I will make an exception today.”

He gave instructions to the maidservant who was standing to the side.

"Go and fetch the few bushels of wine that were presented as tribute from the Western Regions last year, and share them with the ladies."

Soon, the crystal-clear glass was filled with amber-colored nectar.

Li Yi raised his glass first, followed by Yuan Ying, Mi Zhen, Zhen Mi, and Lü Lingqi.

The cups clinked lightly, producing a crisp sound.

This temporarily dispelled the somber atmosphere caused by the political situation and family matters.

As the wine flowed more and more freely, Li Yi was already somewhat tipsy.

Upon seeing this, the ladies exchanged smiles and stepped forward together.

She spoke softly and gently, helping him up.

Amidst the flickering candlelight and the faint aroma of wine, the group did not return to their respective courtyards as usual.

Instead, they tacitly walked towards Li Yi and Yuan Ying's main bedroom.

This night,
Within this family at the pinnacle of imperial power, the turbulent outside world was temporarily set aside.

All that remains is the warmth between family members and a rare moment of relaxation.

For Li Yi, this was perhaps a moment of respite and solace amidst his plans for the future of his family and country.

……

(Thank you so much, Brother Yu, for being my first Alliance Leader! I'm writing 11,000 words today to express my gratitude.)

(End of this chapter)