Datang: Just been appointed as the crown prince, the counterattack system is here

"Have you completed the main quest of the Counterattack System?"

Upon hearing the system notification, Li Chengqian was slightly taken aback, then seemed to realize what was happening and jokingly thought to himself:

"Li Chengqian, are you helping me cheat? I haven't even made Li Er the retired emperor yet! I haven't even sat on the highest position!"

"Ah!"

The system's mechanical voice let out an unusually soft laugh.

[Host, you are far more capable than I imagined! You have fulfilled my wish. It's just a pity that I have to leave and won't be able to see the day you sit on the dragon throne!]

"Go? Go where? Aren't you my system?"

Li Chengqian pressed for an answer, puzzled.

I don't know where I'm going, but my consciousness is starting to fade. Perhaps I'll become a real system.

"What about my reward? Isn't it said that completing the system's main quest gives the richest rewards?"

Yes, of all the tasks, the main quests offer the most generous rewards!

"Hurry up and give it to me... Wait, I remember I have another side quest, I think I've completed it too? Give it to me as well!"

The rewards for the side quests have been distributed. Whether you use this new system yourself or give it to someone else is entirely up to you.

As for the rewards from the main quest—

The system's mechanical voice paused for a moment, then continued, "You can return to your original world!"

"That's it?"

Li Chengqian looked utterly astonished: "Don't tell me this is my reward?!"

"Ah……"

The system's mechanical voice laughed again, but this time it was softer and weaker than before.

"No way! What are you laughing at! Give me the best reward right now! What am I supposed to do when I get back?! Give it to me now!"

Li Chengqian roared in exasperation, but the system's voice did not sound again.

He threatened the system again, saying he would complain about it, but the system still did not respond.

Half an hour later, Li Chengqian, under the watchful eyes of the crowd, seemed to be dazed and detached from the world.

"Your Highness, are you okay?"

Just then, Pei Xingjian's voice suddenly rang out, tinged with a cautious probing.

Li Chengqian was stunned for a moment before he came to his senses.

He grasped the seal of the 'General of Heavenly Strategy' in his hand, turned around, and faced his soldiers and the land he was about to rule.

His dark cloak fluttered in the wind along the Wei River, and his young face was gilded by the setting sun, calm and dignified, without a trace of the complex emotions he had when facing his father.

Pei Xingjian.

"Chen is here!"

Pei Xingjian's spirits lifted, and he immediately knelt on one knee, his voice filled with barely suppressed excitement.

"Issue my decree!"

Li Chengqian's voice was clear and steady, carrying throughout the south side of the bridge:
"You shall immediately take over the defense of Chang'an with the Musketeers. Xue Rengui's troops shall move into the main camp outside the city, while Li Jing and Li Ji's troops shall remain stationed in place and await orders. All troops shall strictly abide by discipline and shall not disturb the civilians; those who disobey orders shall be executed."

"The minister obeys the order!"

Orders were issued methodically, efficiently and ruthlessly, quickly seizing military power in Chang'an and even the entire Guanzhong region.

This was not a triumphant celebration born of impulsive actions, but a meticulously planned political and military takeover.

"Changsun Wuji and Fang Xuanling."

Li Chengqian looked towards the north side of the bridge.

The two men, looking utterly defeated, were both shaken upon hearing this, and looked at the new master they had once tried to control but could no longer shake with complicated emotions.

"Release my teacher Wei Zheng. The order in Chang'an still needs the efforts of you three ministers. Return to the Ministry of Personnel immediately to appease the officials and prepare for... the transition between the old and new administrations."

He used the phrase 'transition between the old and the new,' which was both a polite way of putting things and a clear statement of reality.

Changsun Wuji and Fang Xuanling exchanged a glance, both seeing helplessness and resignation in each other's eyes. They bowed and said, "Your subjects obey."

"Cheng Zhijie, Yuchi Jingde, Chai Shao."

Li Chengqian's gaze swept over the several wounded and indignant veterans.

Cheng Yaojin covered his wound, snorted coldly, and turned his head away.

Yuchi Gong glared angrily, while Chai Shao remained silent and dejected.

"The three dukes have rendered great service, and today they have been frightened and injured. They should return to their residences to recuperate and temporarily cease hostilities."

Li Chengqian's tone was calm, yet carried an undeniable air of authority:
"I have promised my father that I will not pursue the past. I hope the three of you will act accordingly and not betray the trust that my father and I have placed in protecting you."

This is both house arrest and observation.

They can forget about touching military power again. Whether they can keep their wealth and even their lives depends on their next actions.

After dealing with the most crucial military power and former officials, Li Chengqian finally looked at Li Shimin, who was being supported by his personal guards and whose back looked desolate.

"Escort the Emperor Emeritus back to Taiji Palace."

He paused and added:

"The best imperial physicians from the Imperial Medical Bureau shall accompany and serve you, and all your needs shall be met without shortage."

The title of "Retired Emperor" was finally officially bestowed upon Li Shimin.

Li Shimin swayed almost imperceptibly, but without turning around, he silently walked towards the palace he once ruled, which would now become his final residence, surrounded by his personal guards.

With the situation largely settled, night fell.

Li Chengqian did not immediately enter the city, but returned to the central command tent outside the city.

The tent was brightly lit by candlelight, and only a few trusted confidants remained.

"Your Highness, now that the situation is largely settled, perhaps..."

Pei Xingjian's eyes gleamed with excitement. Who wouldn't be thrilled by the change of dynasties and the merit of supporting the new emperor?
Li Chengqian raised his hand to stop him, his face showing little joy, but rather deep thought:
"Xingjian, do you think this is the end of it?"

Pei Xingjian was taken aback.

"Taking Chang'an and gaining official recognition is only the first step."

Li Chengqian walked up to the huge map of the territory:

"What will the governors and prefects of all the provinces think? What will they do?"

“With Your Highness’s divine might extending, and with Generals Li Jing and Li Ji setting an example, who would dare to disobey?” Pei Xingjian said.

"Of course I wouldn't dare to do it openly."

Li Chengqian traced his finger across the map:
"But what about behind the scenes? They outwardly comply but inwardly defy, delay and observe, and even secretly collude... These people are more troublesome to deal with than enemies on the battlefield."

He turned around, his gaze sharp:

"Pass down the order: In the name of the 'General of Heavenly Strategy's' office, issue the first imperial edict. It contains three parts."

"First, let the world know that His Majesty, due to years of war and poor health, is feeling exhausted and has decided to recuperate. Therefore, His Majesty hereby promotes Crown Prince Li Chengqian to the rank of 'General of Heavenly Strategy' and grants him the title of 'Regent,' granting him overall control of the government and command of all the military forces in the land."

This step gave Li Shimin dignity and also established his absolute legal authority.

"Second, all regional governors, prefects, and military commanders are hereby ordered to immediately send copies of their troops, provisions, and household registers to the General's Office in Chang'an for record-keeping upon receiving this order. Without a new order from the General's Office, no troops in any region may be mobilized beyond the size of one prefecture."

This is both a move to consolidate power and a test.

Those who are obedient, do not move for now.

Those who are dishonest will be listed.

"Third, announce the abolition of the 'Zhenguan' reign title. Starting from the first day of the first month of next year, the reign title will be changed to 'Hongwu'."

The change of era name is the clearest signal of a new era.

Hongwu, besides being a modern person's quirky hobby, also set the tone for the empire's subsequent military conquest of the world.

Pei Xingjian quickly memorized it, feeling a chill in his heart.

Your Highness's thoughtfulness and decisiveness far surpass those of ordinary people.

"in addition!"

Li Chengqian's lips suddenly curled into a cold smile: "Summon Dai Zhou to see me."

.........

That night, deep within the Ministry of Justice prison.

Dai Zhou rushed over and, upon seeing Li Chengqian, who was dressed in ordinary clothes but exuded an even greater aura than before, immediately bowed deeply in respect.

"Your subject Dai Zhou pays his respects...pays his respects to the General!"

He was momentarily at a loss for words.

"Minister Dai, please rise. You may still address Your Highness as Your Highness."

Li Chengqian offered a gesture of support: "'The epidemic case,' how's the investigation going?"

Dai Zhou's spirits lifted, knowing that this was the new master's first test of him, and also the key to his establishment.

He took a deep breath and gave a clear and organized report:

"Your Highness, the case has been basically solved. Prince Shu, Li Ke, and Prince Liang, Li Yin, colluded with the guards to commit acts of chaos under the guise of epidemic prevention. The evidence is conclusive."

"The power of the Shouzhulang in Chang'an has been completely eradicated. Its leader, Shouzhu Shi Yuan Tiangang, is on the run, but according to the confessions of the captured key members, he seems to have a secret connection with some ministers in the court."

He paused, carefully observing Li Chengqian's expression, and continued:

"As for the poisoning cases at the Crown Prince's residence and the poisoning case at the Prince of Jin's residence, I have thoroughly investigated all the clues and found no direct connection between the Crown Prince and Your Highness in these two poisoning cases."

"Many of the previous unfounded rumors were deliberately leaked and distorted by Su Xu, the chief secretary of the Prince of Wei's residence, and others through Liu Ji, in an attempt to frame him."

He presented several key testimonies and copies of physical evidence. Li Chengqian quickly flipped through them, his gaze lingering on a few names, especially 'Liu Ji', 'Su Xu', and the record that vaguely mentioned the Prince of Wei attempting to contact a 'mysterious force' through an intermediary.

"Minister Dai, you've worked hard. This case has been handled thoroughly."

Li Chengqian closed the file, his tone revealing neither joy nor anger.
"Now that it has been determined that the King of Shu and the King of Liang are dead, the main body of the guard has been destroyed, and the main culprit has been executed, this case can be closed."

Dai Zhou was taken aback: "Then... what about the Prince of Wei's residence..."

"Liu Ji framed the crown prince, colluded with wicked people, and wreaked havoc on the court. His crimes are unforgivable."

Li Chengqian said calmly:

"Tomorrow, you will have conclusive evidence. As for the sentence, Minister Dai is the head of the Ministry of Justice and should know that the law is strict."

Dai Zhou understood instantly.

This was intended to target Liu Ji as a starting point for purging the Wei King's faction, while also serving as a warning to those old officials who were still observing.

And 'conclusive evidence' will naturally appear 'at the right time'.

"As for the King of Wei!"

Li Chengqian's tone softened slightly:
"I have promised the Emperor Emeritus that I will ensure his wealth and well-being. However, the treacherous individuals around him are inciting princes and sowing discord within the imperial family. They must be eliminated. Su Xun and the others shall be dealt with according to the law."

"As for the King of Wei... he should shut himself in and study, and reflect on his own faults."

To strip him of his power and confine him to his residence was the final punishment for Li Tai.

This fulfilled the promise and eliminated any future problems.

"My lord, I understand!"

Dai Zhou was completely convinced.

The new master is shrewd and cunning, and his sense of proportion is extremely accurate.

"After this case is closed, Minister Dai will continue to head the Ministry of Justice."

Li Chengqian made a promise: "I hope you can uphold integrity and honesty, and become a pillar of the new dynasty."

"Your Majesty, I will do my utmost to repay your kindness!"

Dai Zhou bowed again in excitement.

He knew that his position was secure.

.........

The next day, at Taiji Palace, Liangyi Hall.

The atmosphere was solemn, even oppressive.

All the officials gathered, but the dragon throne remained empty.

Below the imperial steps was a slightly lower gilded chair, upon which Li Chengqian sat, dressed in a black regent's robe, his crown tassels drooping over his face.

This shows that the emperor is still alive, but the power has shifted.

The first thing announced was the result of the 'pandemic case'.

Dai Zhou stepped forward and loudly read out the verdict:
[Liu Ji's crimes were irrefutable; his entire family was exterminated.]

[Su Xu and other officials under the Prince of Wei's court were severely punished according to the law. The main culprit in the case was executed by being cut in half at the waist; the male members of his family were exiled to Lingnan, and the female members were imprisoned in the Jiaosifang (a government-run educational institution).]

Clean and efficient, cutting through the mess quickly.

The officials fell silent, especially those who had dealings with the Prince of Wei's residence or who harbored doubts about the Crown Prince; a chill ran down their spines.

The first fire of the new Lord burned so fiercely.

Immediately afterwards, the emperor announced the change of reign title to 'Hongwu' and new personnel appointments.

Wei Zheng was promoted to Minister of Works, while still holding the position of Right Vice Minister, overseeing all government affairs and enjoying an extremely prestigious status.

Li Jing was appointed Grand Commandant and put in charge of the newly established Privy Council, overseeing the overall military affairs and deployment across the country. He was truly the foremost figure in the military.

Li Ji was appointed Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince and promoted to Minister of Works, and co-managed the Privy Council with Li Jing.

Fang Xuanling retained his position as Left Minister of Works and was appointed Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince, assisting Wei Zheng in handling government affairs.

Changsun Wuji retained his title of Grand Minister of Works but was reassigned as Minister of the Court of Imperial Clan Affairs, in charge of imperial family affairs. This was a promotion in name only, effectively a demotion, placing him far from the core of power.

Cheng Yaojin, Yuchi Gong, and Chai Shao were all granted fiefs and generous rewards, but the imperial edict stated that "considering their advanced age and hard work, they are specially permitted to retire at home and enjoy their old age, and are not allowed to come to court without an imperial decree." Their military power was completely handed over, and they were allowed to retire in comfort.

Pei Xingjian was promoted to Minister of War, effectively in charge of the capital and its directly administered troops.

Xue Rengui was enfeoffed as Duke of Pingyang and appointed as General of the Left Guard, garrisoning Chang'an.

Su Dingfang, Xi Junmai, Wang Haibin, and other former subordinates of the Crown Prince and meritorious generals from Liaodong were all promoted and filled key positions.

The Academy of Sciences and the Medical School were established as independent institutions, with their ranks promoted, and they were directly responsible to the Regent.

Naval Commander Hilde was granted the title of County Duke and appointed Governor-General of the Tang Navy, in preparation for a new voyage.

A brand-new power network, centered on Li Chengqian, incorporating both old and new elements, and balancing civil and military power, was quickly established.

The system of rewards and punishments was clear, encompassing both appeasement and discipline of former officials, as well as promotion of one's own loyalists, especially the unprecedented elevation of the status of the military and science and technology departments.

No one dared to object.

The saying "political power grows out of the barrel of a gun" is vividly demonstrated at this moment.

.........

Da'an Palace.

As Li Yuan listened to Du Caigan's detailed report on everything that happened at the court assembly that day, the wrinkles on his face seemed to smooth out, and he remained silent for a long time.

After a long while, he chuckled softly, a laugh that was both hearty and desolate: "Good, good lad! More ruthless than his father, and faster too! This empire... he might actually be able to pull off something quite different."

He dismissed Du Caigan, walked alone into the courtyard, looked at the old tree, and murmured:

“Shimin, Shimin, do you understand now? Some paths, once taken, cannot be turned back. The path you chose, your son… has taken an even further one.”

One month later, on the first day of the first month of the first year of Hongwu.

The grand enthronement ceremony was held in the newly renovated and even more magnificent Daming Palace.

Li Yuan, as the retired emperor, and Li Shimin, as the retired emperor, both attended the ceremony.

Wearing a twelve-symbol imperial robe, Li Chengqian, amidst the attention of the crowd and shouts of "Long live the Emperor!", stepped onto the supreme imperial steps and sat on the cold dragon throne that symbolized supreme power over the world.

"I, by the mandate of Heaven, rule over all lands..."

His young yet authoritative voice echoed above the palace complex, announcing the official start of the 'Hongwu Era'.

After the ceremony, the new emperor's first imperial edict was neither a general amnesty nor a reward for his officials, but rather sent to the Academy of Sciences and the Ministry of Works:

"I have heard that the study of things can lead to knowledge, and extraordinary skills can lead to divine intervention. Therefore, I hereby expand the scale of the Academy of Sciences, adding disciplines such as physics, chemistry, mechanics, navigation, astronomy, and geography. I will recruit skilled craftsmen and extraordinary talents from all over the country, regardless of their background, and only select those with talent. All expenses shall be directly allocated by the Imperial Treasury, and the Ministry of Revenue shall not interfere."

"Furthermore, I order the Ministry of Works and the Academy of Sciences to work together to develop the 'steam locomotive,' the 'improved version of the ironclad warship,' and... something that can carry people into the air, as Your Majesty has mentioned."

This imperial decree left many traditional civil officials speechless, but it stirred the blood of military generals like Li Jing and Li Ji, as well as members of the Academy of Sciences.

They knew that the new emperor's ambitions went far beyond simply maintaining the status quo; they aimed to create something new.

As night deepened, the new emperor stood alone atop his palace, overlooking the myriad lights of Chang'an and the vast, dark expanse beyond.

With internal troubles initially quelled, he now held power.

But governing the country has only just begun.

Regional military governors, aristocratic families, people's livelihood, science and technology, frontier, ocean...

And then there's the broader world that's vaguely mentioned in the system of knowledge.

The road ahead is still long.

He slowly clenched his fist, his eyes reflecting the stars and lights, his whisper dissipating on the wind:

"I want this world to live a different life."

As soon as he finished speaking, he snapped his fingers, and a brand new system panel appeared before his eyes:
[Host: Li Shimin!]

At thirty-six, the prime of your life, you've lost power to your son. You're unwilling to accept it, and you want to reclaim everything that's rightfully yours!

[The Counterattack System is activated. Host, please sneak overseas and establish an empire even more powerful than the Tang Dynasty. Reward: The Art of Immortality. This can be used by your family for cultivation.]

hum-

at the same time.

Li Shimin, who was drinking listlessly in his thatched hut by the Wei River, suddenly felt a jolt of disbelief on his face.

Empress Zhangsun, who was trying to comfort him, looked at him with concern: "Your Majesty, what's wrong? Don't frighten me..."

[Ding! Host's emotions have been significantly fluctuating. You can choose a side quest to accelerate your comeback. Side quest one: Return to the palace and abduct a son, taking him overseas. Reward: A perfect smuggling map that can avoid all dangers! The more sons you abduct, the richer the reward!]

Li Shimin suddenly stood up from the bed and embraced Empress Zhangsun:
"Guanyinbi! Let's go overseas! I want to build an empire even more powerful than the Tang Dynasty!"

"what?"

Empress Zhangsun was completely stunned, not knowing what had gotten into His Majesty!
Going overseas?

[To build an empire even stronger than the Tang Dynasty?]

What on earth are you two doing?!

the other side.

Li Chengqian, perched high in the palace, smiled slightly, then tapped the system panel and vanished from the palace.

He didn't know how much time had passed when he suddenly heard a series of 'beep beep' car horns.

"I am back again!"

Looking at the bustling traffic, Li Chengqian couldn't help but burst into laughter.

.........

[End of main text] (End of this chapter)