The Fierce Teacher of Zhenguan: Starting with Teaching the Crown Prince to Make a Comeback

Chapter 152 The Crown Prince's Chamberlain

Not only did it fully explain the rationale behind the list, but it also subtly positioned itself as a talent pool for the country, leaving those who attempted to attack it with accusations of "exceeding procedures" and "appointing private individuals" speechless.

Li Shimin sat upright on his throne, his face calm and composed, his eyes deep and unreadable.

As he listened to his eldest son quoting classical texts and speaking eloquently, a slight ripple stirred within him.

Gao Ming's remarks were not merely a simple rebuttal, but rather demonstrated a visionary approach to evaluating talent, even that of a crown prince or emperor.

The expressions of the officials in the hall varied.

Changsun Wuji stroked his beard without speaking, his eyes filled with complex emotions.

Fang Xuanling nodded slightly, seemingly in approval.

Meanwhile, Cui Renshi and the others looked increasingly grim.

At this moment, Cui Renshi, the Imperial Censor who had been silent all along, finally couldn't help but step forward and bow.

“Your Majesty, what His Highness the Crown Prince said is indeed reasonable. However, the evaluation and promotion of local officials is governed by the laws of the court and the duties of the Ministry of Personnel.”

"Although Your Highness has the authority to assist in administration, is such a large-scale recommendation of acting officials... does it still seem a little too hasty? I fear it might open the door to favoritism and undermine the court's system for selecting officials!"

He dared not directly deny the Crown Prince's vision, so he could only raise the banner of "laws and regulations" once again.

Before Li Chengqian could speak, Li Shimin on the throne suddenly moved.

He raised his hand and waved it gently, interrupting Cui Renshi's attempt to continue.

The voice was not loud, but it carried an undeniable decisiveness, instantly spreading throughout the Liangyi Hall.

"The list of meritorious personnel submitted by the Crown Prince shall be handled in accordance with the Crown Prince's report, and there is no need for further discussion."

A single word can decide the fate of a nation!

The hall fell into complete silence; you could hear a pin drop.

Cui Renshi opened his mouth, but in the end it turned into a helpless sigh.

He reluctantly returned to his seat.

Li Shimin's gaze swept across the entire room, finally landing on Li Chengqian, and he said calmly, "You did a good job on the trip to Shandong. Since you saw and heard about these people with your own eyes and ears, and they have contributed to the country and benefited the people, then use them."

"Extraordinary things require extraordinary measures."

"Your Majesty, I thank you for your trust!" Li Chengqian bowed deeply, a huge weight lifted from his heart.

He knew that this was not just the approval of a list, but also his father's final affirmation of his trip to Shandong.

"alright,"

A faint smile appeared on Li Shimin's face, breaking the heavy atmosphere.

"That's all done. Let's not spoil the fun. Now, let the music play and the dancing begin!"

The atmosphere at the banquet became subtle and somber after Crown Prince Li Chengqian's eloquent and forceful speech, which was full of classical allusions.

Although the music continued and the dancers' colorful sleeves fluttered, the people at the banquet were no longer interested in the lively music and dance before them.

All eyes, some open and some hidden, were focused on the Crown Prince beneath the throne and the inscrutable Emperor on the dragon throne.

Li Shimin gazed at his son below, a complex emotion flashing across his deep eyes.

There is scrutiny, there is exploration, and perhaps even a hint of subtle satisfaction.

King Li Tai of Wei sat at the table, maintaining a proper demeanor and even wearing a somewhat naive smile, as if he were also happy for his brother's achievements.

However, beneath the wide sleeves of his robe, his pampered hands were clenched tightly.

The raging fire within him almost burned through the mask of pretense.

Just as undercurrents were swirling, an official dressed in a light scarlet robe stood up hesitantly.

This person is Xu Xiaode, the Secretary Assistant, who holds the rank of Senior Fifth Grade. Although not a prominent position, it is still an important one.

His ability to attend such a grand banquet was not due to his illustrious family background, but rather to his own diligence and a degree of literary fame.

His stepping forward immediately drew everyone's attention.

Xu Xiaode walked to the open space in front of the emperor, bowed and paid his respects, his posture was respectful yet dignified, and his voice was clear and gentle.

"Your Majesty, I, Xu Xiaode, the Secretary of the Imperial Library, dare to submit this petition and humbly request Your Majesty's consideration."

Li Shimin turned his gaze, a hint of inquiry in his eyes.

"What business does Minister Xu have to report?"

Xu Xiaode bowed again, his expression earnest and solemn.

"I am not here to report on matters, but rather to express my deep admiration. Recently, I read His Highness the Crown Prince's 'Edict on Encouraging Learning' issued in Shandong, and heard His Highness's poems encouraging scholars. I was deeply moved, as if I had heard the resounding toll of a great bell, which awakened me from my deafness!"

He raised his head slightly, his gaze sweeping over Li Chengqian below the throne with undisguised admiration, before turning respectfully back to the emperor.

"Your Majesty! In the past, King Wen visited wise men by the Wei River, and Emperor Guangwu laid down his sword to discuss arts and literature—these are all beautiful tales that have been passed down through the ages. However, I have observed that His Highness the Crown Prince's trip to Shandong was not only about providing disaster relief and pacifying the people, but also about promoting education and inspiring talented individuals from humble backgrounds. His contributions will have a far greater impact on the long-term well-being of the nation!"

He spoke at a steady pace, quoting classical texts without ever being obscure.

"The Book of Rites says: 'In establishing a state and governing the people, education is the first priority.' Your Highness the Crown Prince has deeply understood the heart of the ancient sages! At a time when disasters have just subsided and everything needs to be rebuilt, you have not forgotten to revive schools and encourage learning. This is not just a good policy for the moment, but truly lays the foundation for the Tang Dynasty for ten thousand generations!"

"I have heard that Your Highness's decree has greatly boosted the academic atmosphere in Shandong's prefectures and counties, and scholars from humble backgrounds are spreading the news as if a long drought has been relieved by timely rain."

"This scene reminds me of Emperor Gaozu Taiwu, who founded the dynasty and valued Confucianism. Your Majesty has also inherited the throne with wisdom and promoted the civil service examination system, helping people from humble backgrounds to rise to prominence."

"What Your Highness has done today is to carry on the great aspirations of our ancestors and His Majesty, and to go a step further, to spread the teachings of the sage directly to the countryside!"

This speech, full of classical allusions and progressively building upon previous statements, elevated the Crown Prince's actions to the level of inheriting the ancestral will, benefiting the country and its people, and concerning the fate of the nation—a flawless display of flattery.

This not only demonstrated his own erudition, but also integrated his praise for the crown prince with a profound understanding of the court's policies and a eulogy to the emperor's wisdom.

Many officials from humble or middle-class backgrounds at the table nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of resonance.

Li Shimin listened quietly, his face expressionless, until Xu Xiaode finished speaking, then he slowly opened his mouth, his voice carrying a hint of gentleness that was barely perceptible.

"I know what Xu Qing is thinking."

His gaze turned to Li Chengqian.

"Your Highness, this poem is simple in language, yet profound in meaning, and its inspirational spirit leaps off the page. I wonder where Your Highness obtained this poem?"

In an instant, everyone's attention was once again focused on Li Chengqian.

The style of this poem is quite different from the ornate poetry that is popular in this world, and its origin is intriguing.

Was it written by the Crown Prince himself?
Li Chengqian rose and responded calmly.

"Your Majesty, this poem was obtained by chance. I was moved by its sincerity in encouraging learning, so I recorded it to inspire the scholars of Shandong. I never expected it to be so widely circulated. I am unworthy of such praise from Xu."

His answer was watertight, glossing over the phrase "by chance," neither admitting to it nor revealing any information that might point to Li Yichen.

Li Shimin gave him a deep look but did not press the matter. He knew that his son was hiding a secret, but this was not the time to delve into it.

What he cares more about is the policy direction represented by "encouraging learning".

As an emperor, he understood the importance of cultural discourse power better than anyone else.

Since ascending the throne, he has vigorously promoted the imperial examination system and revised the "Clan Records," all in an effort to break the monopoly of powerful families on knowledge and official careers and to strengthen imperial power.

The Crown Prince's actions in Shandong inadvertently coincided with his long-term strategy, and were even more direct and persuasive.

"Hmm." Li Shimin nodded slightly, steer the conversation back on track. "Regardless of the poem's origin, its meaning is excellent. The Crown Prince's promotion of learning in Shandong is a policy... that greatly pleases me."

His tone was firm, carrying the decisiveness of an emperor. "When the world is at peace, education is the foundation of the nation. Only when all scholars in the world are guided and their talents are fully utilized can we truly witness the grandeur of a prosperous era."

Li Chengqian immediately responded, his tone calm and pragmatic.

“Your Majesty is wise. However, I have also deeply felt in Shandong that studying is still a difficult thing for those from poor families.”

“The cost of tuition, the expense of books, and the rarity of a good teacher are all things that ordinary families cannot easily afford.”

"The imperial court desires to greatly promote education and culture, but this is not something that can be accomplished overnight. Nor can it disregard reality and force quick results."

"Your subject believes that we should act according to our capabilities and proceed step by step, and focus more on creating an environment where scholars can study with peace of mind."

"This matter concerns the long-term fate of the nation and should be addressed slowly and deliberately."

His words did not contain any empty moral appeals, but went straight to the heart of the problem—resources.

Reading requires resources, and these resources are precisely what allowed powerful families to monopolize knowledge.

The fact that the Crown Prince could see this level and offer such specific and prudent advice far exceeded his expectations.

This is a crown prince who has begun to think about the deep-seated problems of the empire and understands the importance of weighing options and strategies.

"I wholeheartedly agree with what the Crown Prince has said."

Li Shimin's voice echoed in the hall, carrying an unquestionable tone.

"This matter concerns the future fortune of the Tang Dynasty; it cannot be rushed, nor can it be delayed."

"We must be firm in our resolve, but as the Crown Prince said, we must also act within our means and create the right environment."

He looked intently at Li Chengqian, his gaze carrying a sense of entrustment.

"Yes, this matter is of great importance. Your Highness should pay more attention to it and do your best in the future."

"Your subject obeys the decree and will do his utmost to assist Father Emperor in promoting culture and education, so as not to fail Father Emperor's expectations!" Li Chengqian bowed and accepted the order, his voice firm.

This conversation between father and son struck the ears of the courtiers in the hall like a thunderclap.

The emperor and the crown prince reached a high degree of consensus on education and culture policies that would determine the future power of the empire!
This means that imperial power will launch a more systematic and strategic attack on the knowledge domain that aristocratic families have controlled for hundreds of years.

Changsun Wuji paused slightly as he twirled the jade ring in his hand, but his gentle smile remained as he exchanged a knowing glance with Fang Xuanling beside him.

How could these top officials not see the hidden dangers behind this "encouragement to study"?
This father and son, one a man of great talent and ambition, the other just beginning to show their abilities, joined forces to promote this matter, which was naturally beneficial to the imperial power in every way.

This allows for a more effective selection of talented individuals loyal to the royal family, weakens the influence of powerful clans, and consolidates centralized power.

But for these high-ranking officials who were themselves representatives of aristocratic families or had intricate connections with them, this was by no means a good omen.

The fact that the Crown Prince directly promoted people from poor families in Shandong has already caused them great pain. If this trend is allowed to spread throughout the country under the guise of "encouraging education," in the long run, the very foundation upon which they depend for survival will be shaken.

However, despite the alarm bells ringing in their hearts, Changsun Wuji, Fang Xuanling, and others did not show much worry on their faces.

Fang Xuanling even nodded slightly, as if he deeply agreed with the emperor and the crown prince's decision.

They weren't without worries; rather, they had deeper considerations.

The monopoly of knowledge cannot be easily broken by a single "Exhortation to Learning" or a few inspirational poems.

Centuries of accumulation have created an unbreakable barrier.

True scholarship, especially the core annotations of classics, histories, philosophical works, and literary collections, and the subtle influence of officialdom rules, is mostly held by aristocratic families and passed down from generation to generation, beyond the reach of outsiders.

They possessed the best family traditions of learning, the richest collection of classical texts, and employed the most renowned scholars as their tutors.

Their children, from the very beginning of their education, stand at a starting point that is difficult for ordinary people to reach.

Even if children from poor families received some financial assistance from the imperial court and were able to enter the official schools in prefectures and counties, they could only access basic classics and common annotations.

To gain entry into the inner circle and truly enter the core of power remains an incredibly difficult task.

The number of candidates selected through the imperial examinations was limited, and there were many hurdles involved, so powerful and influential families still held an absolute advantage.

Looking at Li Chengqian, who was conversing fluently with his father in front of the emperor, Li Tai felt a surge of jealousy and murderous intent that threatened to burst from his chest.

The forced smile on his face could barely stay on, so he could only use raising his glass to drink to hide the gloom in his eyes.

He stared intently at Li Chengqian, screaming wildly in his heart.

Why?
What right does this cripple have?!
His trip to Shandong should have resulted in his disgrace and ruin, but instead, it brought him a reputation for virtue.
That so-called "Edict to Encourage Learning," those poems that won people's hearts, and the undisguised admiration in the Emperor's eyes at this moment... all of this should have belonged to Li Tai!

With so many literary figures gathered around him to compile the "Kuodi Zhi" (Records of the Land), why did he never think of such a brilliant strategy that directly addresses people's hearts and can shake the foundations of the poor scholars of the world?

This cripple... since you cherish your reputation so much and want to win people's hearts so much, then don't blame me for finding you some real "people's hearts" to taste!
Several wicked thoughts flashed through his mind in an instant: perhaps he could start with the powerful Shandong families whose interests had been threatened by the Crown Prince.

Perhaps we could spread some rumors to distort the Crown Prince's encouragement of learning into a charitable act of seeking fame and winning people's hearts.

Even... they could arrange for some poor students to cause trouble, turning this benevolent policy into a death knell for the crown prince!

Li Ke remained silent throughout, observing coldly from the sidelines.

He keenly sensed that after this banquet, the political climate in the court would likely change.

The Crown Prince's trip to Shandong not only proved his abilities in practical matters, but also placed him in a favorable position in terms of "morality" and "long-term planning".

His struggle with the King of Wei may be entering a completely new phase.

The banquet continued in an atmosphere that appeared harmonious on the surface but was actually tense underneath.

The music and dance continued as usual, but everyone knew that a secret battle concerning the fate of the nation for decades or even centuries to come had quietly begun amidst the clinking of glasses.

The emperor and the crown prince, under the banner of "encouraging learning," put their open conspiracy to the forefront.

After a brief moment of shock, the powerful clans quickly erected their seemingly invisible yet incredibly strong defensive line.

Li Chengqian sat back down at his seat, picked up his wine cup, and calmly swept his gaze over the familiar and unfamiliar faces in the hall.

He took a small sip of the wine, the liquid going down his throat with a hint of spiciness and a touch of sweetness.

The next day.

The people recommended by the Crown Prince passed through the three provinces quickly without any obstacles.

Li Yichen, the Imperial Secretary of the Eastern Palace, has officially taken office.

(End of this chapter)