My father, Li Shimin, requests Your Majesty to become the Retired Emperor.

at this time,

Hegan Chengji took out a red flag and a white flag from his pocket and waved them in his hands.

The assassins immediately changed formation, removing their shields and replacing them with blue bamboo tubes.

However, those bamboo tubes were as thick as a bowl, and water could be sprayed out as soon as they were pushed forward.

In this weather, with heavy snow falling and freezing temperatures, water poured on people quickly freezes into ice.

Songtsen Gampo, Medicine Master Huri, and Qin Ying were all drenched in water.

Only Li Chenggan, riding on his fiery wheels, dodged quickly and escaped being drenched.

In just a short while, Qin Ying had been frozen solid.

My teeth were chattering from the cold, and I looked like an ice sculpture.

Li Chengan thought to himself that these people were too despicable. Not only did they have shields, crossbows, and iron siege engines, but now they had resorted to such underhanded tactics.

At that moment, the water guns made of bamboo tubes aimed at Li Chenggan and sprayed water together.

This time, Li Chenggan could no longer escape.

at this time,

A loud cry of a crane echoed from the sky.

Then,

A large umbrella fell from the sky and sheltered Li Chengqian, so that not a single drop of water splashed on him.

Behind that large umbrella stood a woman who looked like a fairy.

Li Chengan glanced at the newcomer and saw that it was none other than Su Wan.

The giant divine bird in the sky is none other than the "Invincible General".

Behind Su Wan were several other people, including Su Gui, Cheng Xin, Wei Lingfu, Mu Jishe, and Shui Jishe.

Muji said, "I didn't expect this place to be so lively."

"That's right, we almost missed it," Mizukichi echoed.

Li Chengan never expected to see Su Wan here, and he was filled with mixed feelings of joy and sorrow.

"Your Highness, are you alright?" Su Wan stepped forward and tugged at Li Chengqian's sleeve, looking at him with concern.

"I'm fine."

"It's good that you're alright!"

"Why are you here?" Li Chenggan asked.

Su Gui gripped her spear: "This is not the place to speak; the written exam is about to begin."

"You all hurry and ride your invincible generals into the city; leave this to us."

Li Chenggan thought about it and agreed.

He said to Xin and Wei Lingfu, "You've worked hard."

"Your Highness, it's good that you're safe and sound. There's no need for such formalities between us," Chengxin said.

"Then be careful."

"understood."

So, Li Chengan and Su Wan rode on the invincible general's horse.

Then, Su Gui, Cheng Xin, Wei Lingfu and others stuffed Qin Ying, Songtsen Gampo and Bhaisajyaguru into the net hanging below the Invincible General.

The invincible general spread his wings and flew into Chang'an City.

All of this was accomplished in an instant.

The three assassins were dumbfounded, for they had never seen such a huge divine bird before.

Su Gui led his Imperial Guards and the men of Lijing Gate to fight side by side.

In the end, seeing that the number of Imperial Guards under Su Gui's command was increasing, the three assassins quickly retreated.

Su Gui regained control of Xuanwu Gate.

Su Gui said to Xin and Wei Lingfu, "You two should leave quickly. It won't be good if others find out. I'll take care of things here."

Chengxin patted Su Gui on the shoulder: "After three days apart, you've changed a lot. Su Gui, you've done a great job."

Su Gui straightened her chest: "This time, we owe a lot to your help."

"No problem, as long as Your Highness is safe and sound."

After Chengxin finished speaking, he and Wei Lingfu led the people of Lijingmen away.

Su Gui captured three assassins posing as imperial guards and planned to hand them over to the Dali Temple for interrogation.

It was already daylight.

Jiucheng Palace.

The palace maids and eunuchs responsible for the completion of Jiucheng Palace and the civil service examinations were constantly moving back and forth.

Today, Jiucheng Palace is adorned with red and green decorations and lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere.

Li Tai was full of confidence and beaming with joy.

He was so obese that his forehead shone and his nose gleamed.

As soon as he arrived outside the south gate of Jiucheng Palace, he saw a woman standing in the wind.

That woman had large breasts, a slim waist, fair skin, and a beautiful face; she was quite attractive.

Upon closer inspection, he realized it was Xue'er, Su Wan's maid.

Seeing that no one was around except Xue'er, Li Tai took two steps forward and asked with an awkward smile, "Miss Xue'er, who are you waiting for here all by yourself?"

Xue'er blushed deeply: "Your Majesty, I've been waiting for you."

Li Tai was overjoyed to hear this, because this woman was someone he had always wanted but never had.

"Oh, you've been waiting for me. What is it?"

Xue'er held a cup of hot tea in her hands: "It's so cold, Your Majesty, please have a cup of tea to warm yourself up so you can stretch your arms and legs properly during the exam."

Li Tai straightened his clothes: "Oh, Miss Xue'er, you are such a thoughtful person."

"When I treated you like that before, weren't you angry with me?"

Xue'er chuckled and said, "What's that? I've long forgotten about it."

As the saying goes, "No fight, no friendship."

"Yes, that makes sense. Thanks in advance."

Li Tai reached out, took the teacup, and took the opportunity to touch Xue'er's hand.

Xue'er wasn't angry at all; instead, she smiled.

Li Tai was overjoyed and tilted his head back, drinking the entire cup of tea in one gulp.

"Your Majesty, how does it taste?"

"not bad!"

Xue'er lowered her head, her face full of satisfaction: "I hope Your Majesty will achieve the highest score in this exam!"

"Thank you for your kind words. If that's the case, I will certainly reward you handsomely."

"Then I'll wait for your good news." Xue'er said, then turned and ran away, lifting her skirt.

Li Tai stared at her departing figure, stunned.

He brought the hand that had just touched Xue'er to his nose and smelled it; it still had a lingering fragrance.

He was somewhat dazed, feeling as if he had just had a dream.

He believed that Cao Cao built the Bronze Sparrow Terrace with the intention of bringing Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao there to entertain him in his later years.

If I could take Xue'er as my concubine in this Jiucheng Palace in the future, that would be nice.

Just as he was lost in thought, Fang Yi'ai arrived.

Fang Yi'ai, noticing Li Tai's self-absorbed expression, asked, "Your Majesty, what are you looking at so intently?"

Fang Yi'ai called out three times before Li Tai heard him:

"Oh, it's nothing."

"That's not right, is it? I feel like you've been bewitched."

"Stop talking nonsense, that's not true," Li Tai paused, "How's things going?"

"Reporting to the King of Yue, everything is going smoothly."

Upon hearing this, Li Tai's eyes lit up: "I ask you, has Li Chengqian returned from Xuanwu Gate?"

"The Crown Prince did indeed return from Xuanwu Gate."

Upon hearing this, Li Tai clapped his hands together: "I've discovered that your father is truly remarkable, incredibly insightful!"

How did he know Li Chengan would return through Xuanwu Gate and not enter the city through Zhuque Gate?

"The reason is simple: because the Vermilion Bird Gate is unlucky for you?"

"What do you mean?" Li Tai didn't understand what he meant.

"Your Majesty, don't forget that your nickname is Qingque (Azure Sparrow). Zhuque (Vermilion Bird) means 'Zhuque' (Slaying Sparrow), which is extremely unfavorable to you."

Li Chenggan was kind and benevolent.

He doesn't want anything to happen to himself, but he also doesn't want anything to happen to you.

"Really? In that case, he's a complete fool."

So, is Li Chenggan dead or not?

"I suspect that even if he doesn't die, he'll be left with only half a life."

With three assassins joining forces, how could he possibly survive?

Upon hearing this, Li Tai shook his head: "That won't do. I want to see him alive or dead. Send someone to investigate immediately and find out what happened to him."

at this time,

Ashina Jieshe rushed to Li Tai and Fang Yi'ai in a panic: "Your Majesty, General, Prince Consort, something terrible has happened!"

"What's wrong?" Li Tai asked.

"Li Chengqian has already entered Chang'an City."

"What?"

Upon hearing this, Li Tai panicked.

He felt his legs go weak and he almost couldn't stand up.

Fang Yi'ai quickly supported him: "Your Majesty, how are you feeling?"

Li Tai touched his forehead and asked Fang Yi'ai, "What exactly happened? Didn't you just tell me that Li Chengqian was doomed?"

Why did he end up in Chang'an again?

Ashina Jieshe then recounted the whole story to Li Tai.

Upon hearing this, Li Tai roared, "Useless idiots! I've wasted my time supporting you all!"

Ashina Jieshe heard this and secretly groaned, thinking to himself, "No wonder Hegan Chengji and Zhang Shizheng were unwilling to come and report the situation. It seems that the two of them are still slippery."

"Your Majesty, something even worse has happened. Su Gui has arrived with the Imperial Guards and captured our three brothers."

It seems they intend to send him to the Dali Temple for interrogation.

Upon hearing this, Li Tai slapped his thigh so hard it was swollen: "Are they going to betray me?"

If that's the case,

"Won't Father Emperor blame me?"

Ashina Jieshe patted his chest and said, "Your Majesty, please rest assured, all of us are loyal to you. We would rather die than reveal a single word. You can be sure of this."

Hearing this, Li Tai felt somewhat relieved.

Fang Yi'ai's heart was pounding, because he had already met Li Chengan.

Li Chengan had already recognized him.

Then, won't Li Chenggan come after me in the future?

It's truly hard to imagine that the three assassins working together couldn't defeat Li Chenggan; it's really amazing.

Hegan Chengji had never had a rival in the Tang Dynasty, and his Yitian Sword was no less powerful than the Qinggang Sword.

Zhang Shizheng's guzheng playing was superb, and his throwing knives hit the mark every time. How did Li Chenggan manage to dodge them?

Fang Yi'ai really couldn't understand it.

"Your Majesty, I am quite familiar with the Dali Temple prison. If necessary, I will go in again and kill those three assassins to prevent future troubles."

Upon hearing this, Ashina Jieshe quickly advised, "Your Majesty, you mustn't! Those are all our brothers!"

Li Tai thought for a moment and said, "As long as they don't betray me, I won't harm them."

"Please rest assured, Your Majesty. Our brothers are well-trained and extremely loyal to you. They will not reveal a single word."

Still unwilling to give up, Li Tai asked, "Is Li Chengqian injured?"

"No, not a hair on the head," Ashina Jieshe replied.

Li Tai couldn't help but ask, "You three assassins working together, yet you failed to kill Li Chenggan?"

"Yes, Li Chengqian's kung fu is no longer what it used to be."

"He went to the Wa (Japanese) Kingdom and seems to have become much braver," Ashina Jieshe said, bowing deeply.

"In my opinion, it's not that Li Chenggan is too brave, but that you people are too useless!" Li Tai said, snorting angrily.

Seeing Li Tai's anger, Ashina Jieshe dared not argue back and lowered his head, saying, "Your Majesty, please give us another chance. We are sure we can kill Li Chenggan."

"No need, you only get one chance," Li Tai waved his hand. "Li Chenggan has already entered Chang'an City. He has his own group of people protecting him. You should leave now."

"promise!"

Ashina Jieshe agreed and turned to leave.

at this time,

The civil and military officials have arrived at Jiucheng Palace.

The snow continued to fall, and the snow on the ground grew thicker and thicker.

The entire city of Chang'an was covered in a blanket of white snow.

The northwest wind continued to howl, biting and piercing.

The Jiucheng Palace is magnificent and imposing, with its green tiles, glazed roofs, carved beams and painted rafters, showcasing the grandeur and luxury of the imperial court.

Some of the older officials were shivering from the cold, but even so, they dared not complain and continued to persevere.

Wei Zheng, Fang Xuanling, and Changsun Wuji stood at the very front.

The completion of Jiucheng Palace and the civil service examination were both major events.

Changsun Wuji was the examiner for the civil service examination, so Li Shimin specially invited him to attend this grand ceremony.

Looking at the lavishly decorated Jiucheng Palace, Wei Zheng couldn't help but shake his head: "It seems the Emperor has changed, becoming fond of extravagance. Was it really necessary to build Jiucheng Palace so extravagantly?"

Fang Xuanling disagreed: "Lord Wei, I'm afraid that's a bit inappropriate."

If our Tang Dynasty palaces weren't magnificent and grand enough, how could we have intimidated the surrounding countries?

Upon hearing this, Wei Zheng retorted, "Your Excellency, what you said is even more wrong."

then,

When Marquis Wen of Wei and Wu Qi were boating together on the river,

Marquis Wen of Wei then asked, "What is the key to making a country prosperous, strong, and stable for a long time?"

Some say that by relying on natural barriers like the Yellow River and the Yangtze River, they can defend their territory and be safe from harm.

Wu Qi, however, said that governing the world depends on virtue, not on strategic location.

If you lack virtue, even those in the same boat will push you overboard.

"Lord Wei, I think you are wrong," Fang Xuanling said.

"Oh, something's not right?"

Back then, when Xiao He built Weiyang Palace, it was very magnificent. Liu Bang was somewhat displeased and asked Xiao He why he built it so magnificently, wasn't that too wasteful?

Xiao He replied that if the palaces of the Han Dynasty were all low, dilapidated, and not magnificent enough, they would not be able to intimidate the surrounding countries and the Xiongnu.

Upon hearing this, Liu Bang's worry turned to joy.

"This was precisely one of the fundamental reasons for the downfall of the Han Dynasty. Xiao He set a very bad precedent, and the descendants of the Liu family followed suit, becoming arrogant, extravagant, and dissolute."

To subdue neighboring countries and barbarian tribes, one must rely on virtuous governance and a strong national power.

How can you suppress people with the grandeur of a palace?

This is utter nonsense.

Fang Xuanling was still unconvinced when he heard this, and said: "According to you, why did Cao Cao build the Bronze Sparrow Terrace back then?"

Why couldn't he be more frugal?

Upon hearing this, Wei Zheng's face darkened: "Cao Cao is a traitorous minister, nominally the Chancellor of Han, but in reality a traitor to Han. It is precisely for this reason that Emperor Xian of Han wrote the Jade Belt Edict."

Let Liu Bei, Ma Teng, and others join forces to eliminate Cao Cao.

Cao Cao was a womanizer.

In his later years, he desired to possess the sisters Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao, to house them in the Bronze Sparrow Terrace for his enjoyment in his old age.

"Is there anything about Cao Cao that's worth learning from?"

Fang Xuanling raised an objection: "Lord Wei, I think your understanding of Cao Cao is biased."

Cao Cao himself once said that without him, Cao Cao,

How many people in the world have claimed the title of emperor, and how many have claimed the title of king?

From this perspective, Cao Cao was a loyal subject of the Han Dynasty.

Moreover, Cao Cao never declared himself emperor throughout his life. Does that mean he lacked the conditions and strength to do so?

He only said, "If Heaven's mandate is with me, I will be King Wen of Zhou."

He was extremely respectful to Emperor Xian of Han and did not overstep his bounds in any way.

"Your Excellency, you are mistaken again. Cao Cao was granted the Nine Bestowments, the title of Duke of Wei, and the authority to establish his own government."

How is this any different from saying that Cao Cao was going to rebel?

These are the harbingers of rebellion.

Moreover, after Cao Cao died, Cao Pi succeeded him and soon overthrew the Han Dynasty, becoming the emperor of the Wei Dynasty.

Cao Pi was Cao Cao's eldest son.

What's the difference between him being emperor and Cao Cao being emperor?

Changsun Wuji listened silently the whole time.

At this moment, he took a step forward and advised, "My lords, please stop arguing. What's the point of arguing until you're red in the face?"

Those are all in the past; we need to look forward.

Wei Zheng then asked, "Lord Changsun, do you have any brilliant ideas?"

"I dare not presume to offer such profound insights, but I think your view that Cao Cao built the Bronze Sparrow Terrace merely to recruit Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao to entertain him in his later years is too one-sided."

In fact, Cao Cao had many intentions.

Many of them were meant to demonstrate their strength to the world.

You should know that Cao Cao's father was Cao Song.

Cao Song, however, was the adopted son of a eunuch.

That means Cao Cao was the grandson of a eunuch.

At the time, this was considered very disrespectful.

but,

Cao Cao proved through his actions that he was no ordinary man.

He was different from the descendants of ordinary eunuchs.

With Cao Cao's achievements today, he is worthy of the Bronze Sparrow Terrace.

Simultaneously,

He also wanted to take advantage of the completion of the Bronze Sparrow Terrace to test his sons and choose one of them as his heir.

I think these are probably his true intentions.

Wei Zheng turned around, looked at Changsun Wuji, and smiled slightly: "Lord Changsun,"

So, in your opinion, who was Cao Cao's favorite son?

Changsun Wuji continued, "Cao Cao is already dead, and no one knows what he was really thinking."

We can only discuss the matter at hand and make appropriate speculations.

If I'm not mistaken, Cao Cao's preferred heir apparent was Cao Chong.

Cao Chong was handsome and a natural prodigy, giving rise to the famous story of Cao Chong weighing an elephant.

Cao Cao had long harbored the idea of ​​making Cao Chong his heir, which was one of the reasons why he hesitated to do so.

If Cao Cao were truly satisfied with Cao Pi, he would have made him his heir long ago; why wait so long?

"You mean, Cao Cao was most satisfied with Cao Chong?"

"That's exactly right."

I suspect Cao Cao intended to emulate Emperor Wu of Han by passing the throne to Cao Chong before his death.

"You say Cao Cao wants to pass the position of heir apparent to Cao Chong, is there any basis for that?" Wei Zheng pressed.

"Of course there are."

First, Cao Cao was very fond of Cao Chong and took him with him wherever he went.

To use an imperfect analogy, it's like how Qin Shi Huang liked to take Hu Hai with him wherever he went.

Even during Qin Shi Huang's last tour, he brought Hu Hai with him.

If Cao Cao didn't like Cao Chong, would he have kept him by his side every day?

On one occasion,

Cao Cao returned from his campaign.

Everyone assumed Cao Cao would return from the south gate, and they were all waiting for him there.

but,

They waited for several days, but Cao Cao did not appear.

later,

Cao Cao secretly entered the city through the west gate, only to find Cao Chong waiting for him there.

Cao Chong accurately predicted that Cao Cao would enter the city through the west gate, which greatly pleased Cao Cao.

Cao Cao frequently praised Cao Chong in front of his ministers, and the ministers all knew that Cao Cao intended to pass the throne to Cao Chong.

However, Cao Chong was young, being Cao Cao's 25th son and born to Lady Huan.

Therefore,

Cao Cao had not made up his mind for a long time, and after much discussion,

Cao Chong was kind-hearted and didn't have much scheming.

Cao Pi, being extremely cunning, released a poisonous snake that killed Cao Chong.

This is why Cao Cao was deeply grieved when Cao Chong died.

Cao Cao said to Cao Pi and others, "Cao Chong's death is my misfortune, but your great fortune!"

From this statement, we can infer that Cao Cao intended to pass the position of heir apparent to Cao Chong.

Fang Xuanling nodded and said, "Alright, Lord Changsun, even if what you say makes sense, what's the point of saying all this?"

Changsun Wuji sighed: "Since ancient times, many things have been arranged by God, and cannot be changed by human power."

Younger sons are often smarter.

For example, Emperor Zhao of Han.

In terms of recognizing talent, Emperor Zhao of Han was even better than Emperor Wen of Han.

When a petty person spoke ill of Jia Yi in front of Emperor Wen of Han,

Emperor Wen of Han, unable to distinguish between truth and falsehood, distanced himself from Jia Yi.

Jia Yi was a man of great talent, yet he died young and in despair.

Even Liu Bang couldn't compare to Emperor Zhao of Han; Liu Bang doubted Xiao He's loyalty.

They imprisoned Xiao He, but found no evidence against him, so they released him.

When someone falsely accused Huo Guang, Emperor Zhao of Han quickly discerned the truth.

Because he knew that Huo Guang was a loyal minister, he did not listen to the words of those villains and harm Huo Guang.

People like us should focus our energy on compiling the "Zhenguan Code".

Have you been in contact with Li Tai lately?

"This—," Fang Xuanling's expression changed slightly upon hearing this, "So, you mean to say that among the Emperor's sons, Li Zhi is the most intelligent?"

"I wouldn't dare say that Li Zhi is the greatest child prodigy in the world, but he is handsome, quick-witted, and has a promising future."

Anyone could tell that Changsun Wuji's praise of Li Zhi had ulterior motives.

Wei Zheng thought to himself that Changsun Wuji and Fang Xuanling actually had a very good relationship.

They were brothers-in-arms, sharing the same trenches and facing life and death together.

The plan for the Xuanwu Gate Incident was also proposed by Fang Xuanling.

but,

He didn't dare to tell Li Shimin about this directly.

Because the relationship is different.

After being persuaded by Changsun Wuji and Gao Shilian, Li Shimin finally made up his mind to launch the Xuanwu Gate Incident.

Because of this,

After Li Shimin became emperor, when rewarding meritorious officials, Changsun Wuji was listed as the first meritorious official in the Lingyan Pavilion.

Appoint Fang Xuanling as Grand Secretary.

It should be said that Li Shimin was also an emperor who knew how to be grateful.

Wei Zheng could naturally see that Fang Xuanling supported Li Tai as crown prince, while Changsun Wuji supported Li Zhi.

Fang Xuanling and Changsun Wuji had unknowingly split into two camps; the former close comrades-in-arms had now become rivals.

Wei Zheng coughed and said, "My lords, since ancient times, there has been an order of seniority, and the titles and ranks have been established and cannot be changed."

The position of Crown Prince of Qin originally belonged to Fusu.

Zhao Gao and Li Si conspired to alter Qin Shi Huang's will.

Fusu was ordered to commit suicide.

The emperor installed Huhai as the Second Emperor of Qin, which resulted in the Qin Dynasty's demise after only two generations.

People say that Yuan Shao's crushing defeat was not due to Cao Cao, but rather to his own actions.

Yuan Shao's eldest son was Yuan Tan, but Yuan Shao favored his younger son, Yuan Shang.

Later, the three brothers Yuan Tan, Yuan Xi, and Yuan Shang turned on each other and killed one another.

This severely weakened Yuan Shao's army, ultimately leading to its destruction by Cao Cao.

Liu Biao of Jingzhou had two sons: Liu Qi, the eldest, and Liu Cong, the second.

Liu Biao favored his youngest son, Liu Cong.

He dismissed Liu Qi and, on his deathbed, passed the title of heir apparent to Liu Cong.

As soon as Cao Cao's army arrived, Liu Cong surrendered.

Emperor Wen of Sui's original crown prince was Yang Yong.

However, Emperor Wen of Sui listened to the advice of Yang Su, Yang Yue, and Zhang Heng, and ultimately deposed Yang Yong and made Yang Guang the crown prince instead.

This resulted in the Sui Dynasty lasting only 38 years.

These are all the results of abolishing the eldest son's position and establishing the youngest son in favor of the eldest.

These are lessons we are learning right now.

The current Crown Prince is wise and capable, benevolent and filial, and of dignified appearance. He can be considered the greatest Crown Prince in history. The Crown Prince is the foundation of the nation and should not be moved lightly.

Upon hearing Wei Zheng's words, Fang Xuanling sneered: "Lord Wei, your words are a bit extreme."

Emperor Wen of Han is historically recognized as a wise ruler who ushered in the prosperous reign of Emperors Wen and Jing.

Emperor Wen of Han was not the eldest son; he was the fourth of Liu Bang's eight sons.

As for Emperor Wu of Han, Liu Che was the tenth prince.

If Emperor Jing of Han hadn't deposed Liu Rong and instead made Liu Che the crown prince, allowing him to inherit the throne in the future...

Could the Han Dynasty have reached such a peak?

Sun Quan of Jiangdong was no less capable in both civil and military affairs than Cao Cao. He was not the eldest son; that title belonged to Sun Ce.

Furthermore, Sima Zhao was not the eldest son; the eldest son was Sima Shi.

Without Sima Zhao, would there have been the Jin Dynasty?

Let's put aside the distant issues and talk about the more recent ones.

What's going on with our Great Tang Dynasty?

Wasn't the crown prince Li Jiancheng, the eldest son?

Wasn't Lord Wei originally assisting Li Jiancheng?

Now that you've changed sides, have you forgotten about this?

"His Majesty is not the eldest son either. Does that mean the Zhenguan Era, which His Majesty established, was ineffective?"

Wei Zheng understood that Fang Xuanling's words were veiled and indirect, a dig at one thing while criticizing another.

Fang Xuanling's meaning was clear: one can become emperor even if one is not the eldest son of the emperor.

Wei Zheng cleared his throat: "In my opinion, the current emperor is a wise and benevolent ruler."

His Majesty is skilled in both literature and martial arts; he can conquer the world on horseback and govern it on foot.

Even if Qin Shi Huang and Emperor Wu of Han were resurrected, they might not be able to compare to him.

Therefore, not everyone can be compared to His Majesty.

"If what you say is true, then the eldest son cannot be the crown prince. Would our Tang Dynasty be where it is today?"

"If Li Jiancheng had become emperor, could he have managed the Tang Dynasty so well?" Fang Xuanling's tone was aggressive.

Upon hearing this, Wei Zheng thought to himself that Fang Xuanling was openly supporting Li Tai, but he just didn't say it out loud.

Wei Zheng squinted and smiled slightly: "Grand Secretary, in my opinion, what you said is a bit too absolute."

The current emperor is a once-in-a-century, even once-in-a-millennium, ruler.

Who can compare to him? That's one point;

Secondly, Li Jiancheng made this up himself.

He doesn't listen to me and is constantly plotting against the Emperor.

If he listened to the old minister, would he lose his head?

Therefore, our Emperor's launching of the Xuanwu Gate Incident, killing Li Jiancheng and Li Yuanji, and seizing the position of Crown Prince was truly a last resort.

The current Crown Prince Li Chengqian is young and promising; how can he be compared to Li Jiancheng?

Li Jiancheng was an uneducated and utterly dissolute man.

Narrow-minded and unable to listen to others' advice.

His demise was inevitable, while the current Crown Prince Li Chengqian is both scholarly and martial, and his virtue is renowned throughout the land.

"It is a blessing for the Tang Dynasty to have such a crown prince."

Fang Xuanling then asked:

"So, today, with the completion of Jiucheng Palace, a civil service examination will also be held."

Will Li Chenggan participate in this exam?

at this time.

Wei Zheng was also confused, because he didn't know where Li Chengan was: "Your Highness, this time you have been ordered by the Emperor to go to the Wa (Japanese) Kingdom..."

There is an important mission.

Whether he participates in this written exam is not important.

"May I ask, when Li Chengan crossed the ocean to the Japanese kingdom, there was heavy snow and pirates along the way. Is the Crown Prince still safe?" Fang Xuanling asked deliberately.

"Good people are always blessed by heaven, so you don't need to worry about that, Master Fang."

"I hope the Crown Prince will return alive."

"What do you mean by that? Does it mean the Crown Prince has encountered some misfortune?"

"How would I know?"

at this time,

The chief eunuch, Wang De, shouted loudly, "His Majesty has arrived!"

Li Shimin strode to the center of the hall.

All the civil and military officials knelt at the foot of the steps, shouting, "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!"

"You may rise, no need for formalities."

Today, Li Shimin is in high spirits and full of energy, seemingly getting younger with age.

Of course, this may be largely due to Xu Hui's return to the palace and Empress Zhangsun's recovery.

With the meticulous care of the two women, Li Shimin seemed to have become ten years younger, radiating vitality.

Li Shimin looked intently at the civil and military officials below the stage, his face beaming with smiles: "My dear ministers, today our Great Tang Dynasty is doubly blessed."

Firstly, after several years of construction by craftsmen, Jiucheng Palace was finally completed, which was a major event for our Tang Dynasty.

Secondly, at Su Wan's suggestion, we held our first civil service examination. This was of great significance and can be seen as a supplement to the imperial examination system. Through this examination, we selected talented individuals to serve the court in the future.

The civil and military officials once again shouted "Long live the Emperor!"

at this time,

Li Tailang announced: "Please invite Grand Secretary Fang Xuanling to deliver a congratulatory message for Jiucheng Palace."

Fang Xuanling listened,

He straightened his clothes, straightened his back, took two steps forward with measured strides, and coughed once: "Today, we finally celebrate the completion of Jiucheng Palace."

I am incredibly excited to celebrate this joyous day with everyone.

His Majesty trusts me and has entrusted me with the important task of building Jiucheng Palace.

Since accepting the appointment, I have worked tirelessly day and night, fearing that I might fall short in my duties.

Over the years,

Through our joint efforts, we finally completed the construction of Jiucheng Palace.

This is not the result of my efforts alone, but the result of everyone's joint efforts.

During this period, we did not lose a single person, which is a record high.

The money we spent was only equivalent to the cost of building a side hall, which is already the least we could do.

The construction of the magnificent Jiucheng Palace with such a small budget is unprecedented in history. I've done some calculations, and it's roughly equivalent to 1/10 of the cost of building the Bronze Sparrow Terrace, 1/50 of the cost of building the Jiangdu Palace, and 1% of the cost of building the Xianren Palace.

At this moment, applause rang out in the hall.

Because the figures Fang Xuanling mentioned were quite astonishing, the amount of money spent was indeed not much.

"Now that Jiucheng Palace is completed, it is used not only for hosting large-scale events and receiving envoys from various countries, but also..."

It can also be used by the emperor to handle state affairs.

Some palaces were available for the imperial concubines to reside in.

Furthermore, princes who demonstrate outstanding performance may be considered for permission to reside here.

Fang Xuanling's implication was clear: if a prince wanted to live in Jiucheng Palace, he must have outstanding performance and virtue.

Upon hearing this, Li Tai thought to himself that he had wanted to stay at Wude Inn but hadn't been able to. If he could stay at Jiucheng Palace, that wouldn't be bad either.

Li Tai's mind was racing with random thoughts when he suddenly felt a terrible stomachache and needed to use the restroom.

He clutched his stomach and went to find a latrine.

Fang Xuanling then continued:

"Today, Jiucheng Palace is finally completed. This old minister congratulates Your Majesty and the Great Tang Dynasty!"

From now on, when envoys from the Western Regions and Eastern countries come to the Tang Dynasty, we can receive them here and let them see the palaces of our Great Tang.

Jiucheng Palace embodies thousands of years of our culture and wisdom.

Its architectural technology is first-class, embodying the wisdom of tens of thousands of people of the Tang Dynasty.

Next, a written examination will be held, followed by a grand banquet.

There were approximately 100 candidates participating in this written examination, all of whom were top students selected from across the country through multiple rounds of screening.

Including Chu Suiliang, Xu Hui, Li Tai, Lu Zhaolin, Li Ke, Li Lizhi, and others.

Each candidate has their own table, with a distance of more than 1 meter between them.

Li Shimin looked around.

He asked Wei Zheng, "Why haven't I seen Li Chengqian?"

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince is likely on his way back to Chang'an after his mission to the Wa (Japanese) Kingdom."

Upon hearing this, Li Shimin frowned: "Isn't this just talking nonsense? How can he not participate in such an important matter?"

It wasn't just the completion of Jiucheng Palace that mattered; the civil service examination was also very important.

"Your Majesty, although I have not seen the Crown Prince, I have a premonition that he is in or around Chang'an. May I ask Your Majesty to postpone the examination by half an hour?"

"You examiners can discuss this matter yourselves; there's no need to report it to me."

I'm a little tired, so I'm going to rest in my private quarters.

Li Shimin made an excuse to leave, and the chief eunuch Wang De followed behind him.

Li Shimin gazed at Xu Hui: "I will wait here to see your masterpiece."

Xu Hui smiled and said, "Your Majesty, please don't put too much pressure on me. I can only say that I will do my best in the exam."

"It is poorly written; please offer your criticism and corrections, Your Majesty."

"You don't need to be so modest; I have confidence in you."

"OK."

then,

Wei Zheng, Changsun Wuji, Fang Xuanling, Su Dan, and others gathered to discuss delaying the examination by half an hour.

Fang Xuanling shook his head: "How can the agreed time be changed?"

No matter who it is, anyone who arrives late will be disqualified from the exam, and the Crown Prince is no exception!

Wei Zheng said, "It's still snowing. The exam is too early; we can't stretch our arms and legs properly."

"It's so cold today, the test takers are unlikely to perform at their best. Let's postpone the exam."

"Why wait? Why not just have the palace maids and eunuchs light a few more stoves?"

Changsun Wuji neither agreed nor disagreed.

Su Dan replied, "It's like this, someone just told me that King Li Tai of Yue had diarrhea and went to the outhouse and hasn't returned yet. How can the exam begin without the King of Yue present?"

It turned out that Xue'er had poured a cup of tea for Li Tai.

(He/Someone) put laxatives in the tea.

Li Tai was so captivated by Xue'er's beauty that he had no idea there was a laxative in the tea.

He probably didn't even know what the tea tasted like before he drank it all in one gulp. The laxative had already caused a chemical reaction in Li Tai's stomach.

Therefore, Li Tai was so focused on going to the outhouse that he was already too weak to get up.

Upon hearing Su Dan's words, Fang Xuanling looked around and indeed could not see Li Tai's figure.

He quickly agreed: "Alright then, let's delay it by half an hour. If the King of Yue's diarrhea hasn't gotten better by then, we'll delay it by a full hour."

Upon hearing this, Wei Zheng chuckled inwardly, thinking to himself that Miss Xue'er was indeed very clever; although this trick was simple and crude, it was very effective.

On the other hand, Li Tai also brought this upon himself.

He noticed that Su Wan's maid, Xue'er, was beautiful and kept thinking about her.

On one occasion,

He harbored evil intentions towards Xue'er in Beili Pingkangfang, and was so bewitched by her that he became dizzy.

Xue'er drugged his wine, then threw Li Tai into the woodshed.

Li Tai both loved and hated Xue'er.

He hadn't seen Xue'er during this time.

Today, he noticed that Xue'er had become more voluptuous, and her high breasts looked as if they were about to burst through her clothes.

Xue'er offered him tea; how could he refuse to drink it?

Little did they know they had fallen into someone else's trap.