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

Chapter 175 He must plan ahead.

With Li Shimin's unparalleled prestige and absolute control over the army, Li Chengqian had no chance of rebelling and dared not even make the slightest move.

But once Li Shimin leaves Chang'an and goes deep into the Liaodong front, the war becomes stalemate and communication is poor. What will the Crown Prince, who is left in Chang'an, think after a long time?
Will those forces gathered around the Eastern Palace, those who have been suppressed or marginalized by Li Shimin, take the opportunity to incite others?

Even if Li Chengqian himself did not intend to rebel, as long as he showed a certain degree of autonomy, or even if it was just Li Shimin's suspicious nature, it would be enough to cause a huge political crisis.

Li Shimin, who came to power through the Xuanwu Gate Incident, had an extremely sensitive nerve regarding the transfer of power.

How could he possibly trust a crown prince who had already shown his sharp edges to be in charge of the rear for an extended period of time?
He may be in Liaodong, but his heart is always with Chang'an, and he can't even sleep soundly.

So, what would Li Shimin do?
Following history, let Li Chengqian go to Luoyang or Dingzhou.

Should we take him with us on the expedition?
Taking the crown prince on a military expedition would certainly allow him to be kept under close watch, but it also carries risks. Moreover, a country cannot be without a ruler for even a day, and leaving Chang'an completely empty is not a good strategy.

Going to Luoyang or Dingzhou might seem like a compromise, but Luoyang, as a secondary capital, also possessed considerable administrative functions and symbolic significance, and would similarly become a power center.

Li Yichen's brows furrowed more and more tightly.

He realized that the news of the coup in Goguryeo was an opportunity that could change the Tang Dynasty's foreign strategy.

It is also a huge variable that could completely change Li Chengqian's fate and even his own.

He knew that Goguryeo was mountainous and rugged, with strong fortifications, and that its soldiers and civilians were accustomed to the cold climate and were tenacious in battle.

The lesson of Emperor Yang of Sui's million-strong army being utterly defeated and sunk is still fresh in our minds.

Historically, Li Shimin's personal campaigns in the nineteenth year of the Zhenguan era yielded numerous tactical victories.

They captured more than ten cities, including Liaodong City, and killed or captured tens of thousands of Goguryeo soldiers.

However, they ultimately failed to conquer Goguryeo in one fell swoop. After being blocked at the gates of Ansi, they were forced to retreat due to the cold weather and lack of supplies.

This war has actually become a war of attrition.

If... if my appearance prompted Li Shimin to bring forward the time for the campaign against Goguryeo, then were the preparations sufficient?
Is the strategy appropriate?

Can the logistics support it?

If the war goes poorly or becomes deadlocked, it will drain the Tang Dynasty's national strength, damage Li Shimin's prestige, and cause internal political turmoil...

He must plan ahead.

We need to consider how to deal with Li Shimin's possible decision to personally lead the army and the resulting issue of the placement of the crown prince.

We must also consider how to steer this potential war in a direction that is more favorable to the Tang Dynasty and the Crown Prince.

Perhaps... we shouldn't passively wait for things to happen.

Perhaps, at the right time and in the right way, we can exert some influence.

Furthermore, once the war begins, the enormous consumption of resources and troop movements will inevitably impact the ongoing policies such as the development of Xizhou and the reform of the Ministry of Industry.

How can we plan ahead and ensure that these efforts are not interrupted or aborted due to war, but instead find a new foothold or even development opportunities in the wartime economy?
Could the Ministry of Works try to develop more effective siege weapons or transport vehicles?
Countless thoughts collided and intertwined in Li Yichen's mind.

He felt as if he were playing an extremely large and complex game of chess.

The opponents were not only political enemies in the court, nor only Quan Gaisuwen in the far northeast, but also the invisible yet ubiquitous historical inertia.

And the Zhenguan Emperor, who sat on the dragon throne in the Liangyi Hall, his thoughts unfathomable.

He needs time, more accurate intelligence, and more meticulous deductions.

"Sir?" Li Chengqian's voice rang out again, carrying a hint of barely perceptible concern and doubt.

"Is...is there something you need?"

"Your Highness," Li Yichen said solemnly to Li Chengqian.

"Recently, all eyes have been on the Crown Prince's Palace, so it's better to remain still than to make any moves."

"Your Highness should focus on handling daily affairs, studying the classics, cultivating your character, and observing the changes calmly. If there are storms in the outside world, as long as Your Highness remains upright and your foundation is solid, nothing can shake you."

Li Chengqian felt somewhat bewildered, as Li Yichen's words were clearly beyond the specific matters they had just discussed.

But he already had complete faith in Li Yichen, and nodded solemnly upon hearing this.

"The student has taken note. He will always reflect on himself and be careful in his words and deeds."

Seeing Li Chengqian's serious expression, Li Yichen felt somewhat relieved.

At least, things are stable on the Crown Prince's side before the storm arrives.

The following day, at the Liangyi Hall.

The incense burner was filled with wisps of smoke.

Li Shimin sat upright behind his desk, holding a loose sheet of paper printed with the new technique, examining it repeatedly.

His fingers traced the clear, even ink marks on the paper. His face was expressionless, but deep in his eyes, there was an undisguised surprise and admiration.

Li Chengqian stood with his hands at his sides, maintaining his usual respectful demeanor.

"This thing...is truly wonderful."

After a long while, Li Shimin finally put down the paper, looked up at Li Chengqian, and spoke with a hint of barely perceptible admiration.

"Brilliant! You have only been in charge of the Ministry of Science and Technology for a few months, yet you have achieved such groundbreaking results one after another. I am very pleased."

Li Chengqian felt a slight tightness in his heart, but dared not show it on his face.

"Your Majesty is too kind. This is the result of the hard work and dedication of the craftsmen in the Ministry of Works. I dare not take credit for it. Moreover, after returning to the Eastern Palace yesterday, I discussed it with my subordinates and found that there is still a major hurdle to overcome before this technique can be widely spread throughout the world."

"Oh? What kind of difficulty is it?"

Li Shimin's gaze sharpened slightly, gesturing for Li Chengqian to explain in detail.

"It's paper."

Li Chengqian raised his head, his gaze calm.

"Woodblock printing greatly increases efficiency, but if the supply of paper is insufficient or the price remains high, the price of the book will be difficult to drop significantly, and poor scholars may still be unable to afford it."

"In this way, the effectiveness of popularizing education will be greatly reduced."

"This is the source of water and the root of trees. If the source is not abundant and the roots are not firm, the flow will not be far and the trees will not grow tall."

He clearly articulated Li Yichen's analysis from the previous night in his own words, presenting it logically and directly to the core issue.

Li Shimin tapped his fingers lightly on the smooth surface of the imperial desk.

He did not immediately express his opinion, but pondered for a moment.

“Your concerns are quite reasonable. When I first saw the seal yesterday, I was delighted and had a similar feeling. However, I didn’t think of it as clearly as you have. It seems you have indeed put your heart into it.”

His tone carried a subtle hint of appreciation, but more so a sense of confirmation after careful consideration.

This son's perspective and depth of understanding have already surpassed his previous perceptions.

"Your Majesty is wise beyond measure; I have only gained some insights by chance."

Li Chengqian lowered his head slightly.

Li Shimin waved his hand.

"There is no need to be overly modest. Being able to see both the benefits and the drawbacks is the way to be prudent."

"In that case, this technique will remain a secret for the time being. With you, the Crown Prince, taking the lead and the Ministry of Works providing full support, the primary task is to overcome the difficulties in this papermaking technique."

"If you need any craftsmen, materials, or even money, you can submit a report directly or discuss it with Duan Lun and Yan Lide. I grant you permission to act as you see fit."

This is not only an acknowledgment of the Crown Prince's abilities, but also an intangible form of trust.

After all, in the past few months, from bonds to crossbows, and now to woodblock printing, all the changes and surprises have stemmed from the Eastern Palace, from the Crown Prince's "progress." "Your subject obeys the decree! I will certainly do my utmost to live up to Father's expectations!"

A surge of warmth welled up in Li Chengqian's heart, and he quickly stood up and bowed in response.

Inside the Liangyi Hall, the father and son reached a high degree of consensus on this technology that could potentially change the course of the world.

A rare atmosphere of harmony, based on shared political goals and mutual recognition, permeated the relationship between the ruler and his subjects, father and son.

Li Shimin even inquired about Li Chengqian's foot ailment recovery, a rare occurrence for him.

He was told not to overwork himself.

After Li Chengqian took his leave, Li Shimin sat alone in the hall.

Are you pleased?
Naturally there is.

This heir, who had once given him a major headache, is now showing talent and insight that far exceeds his expectations.

But beneath this relief, is there perhaps a hidden, unspeakable sense of unease?

He gently stroked the jade thumb ring on his thumb, suppressing all his thoughts deep in his heart.

In any case, the changes brought about by the Crown Prince are positive and beneficial to the country.

that's enough.

As for the rest... Li Shimin still controls everything.

Time flies, and it's already November.

As the north wind picked up, Chang'an City welcomed its first frost of early winter.

The atmosphere inside the Liangyi Hall was solemn.

Li Shimin's face was ashen, and the urgent report from Liaodong was spread out on his desk.

Crown Prince Li Chengqian, Grand Minister Changsun Wuji, Minister of War Li Ji, Left Vice Minister Fang Xuanling, Grand Master of the Palace Gao Shilian, Duke of Lu Cheng Zhijie and other key officials lined up on both sides.

A layer of frost covered everyone's face.

"All of you have seen it."

Li Shimin's voice broke the silence.

"Chuan Gaesomun, a powerful minister of Goguryeo, brazenly murdered his king, Go Geonmu, slaughtered more than a hundred ministers, installed a puppet king, Go Jang, and proclaimed himself 'Moliji,' seizing all power."

"Now the army is poised to strike Silla directly, cutting off its tribute route."

What are your thoughts?

Cheng Zhijie was the first to be unable to contain himself. He stepped forward, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and spoke in a booming voice.

"Your Majesty! This Quan Gaisuwen is a wolf in sheep's clothing. He murdered the emperor and usurped power, and dares to invade our vassal states, showing contempt for the Celestial Empire!"

"Such acts are outrageous and abhorrent to both gods and men! In my humble opinion, we should immediately send troops to crush Goguryeo, capture this traitor, and demonstrate the might of Heaven!"

"Let the barbarians see the consequences of betraying the Celestial Empire!"

It's no surprise that he's straightforward and hot-tempered, and advocates for a violent solution.

Li Ji followed closely behind, speaking calmly but with a clear stance.

"Your Majesty, what Duke Lu said is very true. Goguryeo is located in a strategically important area and its people are fierce and valiant. The Sui Dynasty launched three expeditions against it without success, which made them increasingly arrogant."

"Izumi Gaisumon has murdered the emperor to establish his authority. His ambition is not small. If we allow him to grow too powerful, he will surely become a major threat to our Great Tang."

"It would be better to strike while their internal strife is still fresh and their foundations are not yet secure, with overwhelming force. This would achieve twice the result with half the effort. I am willing to be the vanguard!"

As a military leader, he analyzed the necessity of sending troops from a strategic perspective.

Fang Xuanling pondered for a moment, then stepped forward and said, “Your Majesty, Quan Gaiswen’s perverse actions are indeed treasonous.”

"However, Goguryeo is characterized by its rugged mountains, fortified cities, and harsh climate, making long-distance expeditions difficult. We must heed the lessons of the Sui Dynasty."

"I believe that we should first send an envoy to rebuke them sternly and observe their reaction."

"If they are willing to admit their guilt and withdraw their troops, then we can subdue them without a fight. If they remain obstinate, it will not be too late to discuss a campaign against them later."

He was prudent and experienced, advocating for diplomacy before resorting to force to avoid rashly starting a war.

Gao Shilian nodded slightly and echoed, "What Prime Minister Fang said is a wise and experienced approach to governing the country."

"Your Majesty, the movement of the army consumes countless amounts of money and grain. Last year, there was a minor disaster in Guanzhong, and this year, the development of Xizhou and water conservancy projects in various places are still underway."

"Although the national treasury is slightly more abundant due to the bonds, it may still be insufficient to support a major war."

"Furthermore, the Xueyantuo in the north have recently shown signs of instability. If our main force is bogged down in Liaodong, they may take advantage of the situation and invade. We must be cautious."

Changsun Wuji spoke last, his tone slow.

"Your Majesty, I agree with the views of Lord Gao and Chancellor Fang. Although Yeon Gaesomun was wicked, Goguryeo's national strength still remains."

"Although our dynasty is strong, it is too risky to deal with both the northeast and the north at the same time. It would be better to temporarily halt our military advance, send envoys to rebuke them, and order them to return the Silla land and restore the tribute route."

"At the same time, we should strengthen defenses in the northern border, contact Silla and Baekje, and plan for the long term before launching a campaign when the time is right."

As a representative of the Guanlong Group, he was more concerned with overall stability and risk control, making him a typical conservative.

Opinions were clearly divided within the hall, with the pro-war faction and the conservative faction each holding their own views, while Fang Xuanling stood in the middle.

All eyes finally turned to Li Shimin on the throne, awaiting his decision.

Li Shimin's gaze slowly shifted to Li Chengqian, who had remained silent.

"Your Highness," his voice betrayed no emotion.

"You have heard what the ministers have said. What is your opinion on this matter?"

Instantly, all the important officials' eyes were focused on Li Chengqian.

Six months ago, these gazes might have contained scrutiny, disdain, or even contempt.

But now, after experiencing a series of events such as disaster relief in Shandong, bond turmoil, and reform of the Ministry of Industry, no one dares to underestimate this increasingly composed crown prince.

Even a veteran like Cheng Zhijie restrained his impatience and looked at him seriously.

Li Chengqian felt those heavy gazes, and his mind raced.

Cheng Yaojin and Li Ji led the charge, displaying fierce fighting spirit.

Fang Xuanling remained neutral and leaned towards a cautious approach.

My uncle and Gao Shilian objected, and for good reason.

As for his father... although he was expressionless, Li Chengqian keenly sensed that deep within his deep eyes, there was a barely perceptible flame that was being forcibly suppressed.

That was the burning ambition of an emperor on horseback, eager to expand his territory and establish unparalleled achievements.

The gentleman is right; Father Emperor does indeed want to hit him!
However, the gentleman had also solemnly analyzed the enormous costs that would result once war broke out...

Is the money raised by the court through the 500,000-string bond issued by bypassing the Crown Prince sufficient to support the operation?

If that's not enough, should we issue more?
Will such a massive debt eventually lead to the collapse of the bond system, triggering a chain reaction that could cause the fledgling "Crown Prince Project" and the government's credibility to crumble together?
This thought, like ice water, extinguished the slight restlessness that had arisen in his heart due to the fervor of the crowd.

He cannot only look at the military aspects, but also at the cold calculations of money and supplies behind these military operations and the potential storm of trust they may trigger.

He took a deep breath, and amidst the expectant gazes of the crowd, stepped forward, bowed respectfully to the throne, and spoke in a clear and steady voice.

"Father, Your Excellencies. Yeon Gaesomun of Goguryeo murdered his emperor and usurped the throne, invading our vassal states. His crimes are undeniable and cannot be tolerated by Heaven and Earth. The might of our Great Tang will not tolerate any provocation."

(End of this chapter)