Chapter 63 King Wei's Attraction
Inside the study of the Prince of Wei's residence, candlelight shone brightly. Heavy curtains hung down, isolating the sounds from both inside and outside; only the occasional beat of the night watchman's drum reminded everyone of the passage of time.
Li Tai sat in the main seat, his expression calm, his fingers unconsciously tapping on the rosewood desk. Below him sat several trusted advisors—Liu Ji, a scholar of the Literary Academy; Du Chuke, the Prince's Sima; and two court officials closely associated with the Prince of Wei's household.
“You have all witnessed what happened today,” Li Tai said slowly. “The Crown Prince’s eldest son has reached his one-month milestone. The Emperor personally bestowed a name upon him, the Empress personally organized the banquet, and the Protector of the Nation presented him with a jade as a blessing… This scene is even more grand than the Crown Prince’s wedding back then.”
Liu Ji spoke first: "Your Highness, it is understandable that His Majesty attaches great importance to the birth of the Crown Prince's eldest son. However, at today's banquet, the Prince's instigation actually made the Crown Prince appear more composed, and His Majesty also clearly expressed his support for the Eastern Palace. This is not in our favor."
Du Chuke nodded: "Indeed. However, I noticed that the behavior of the Protector of the Nation at the banquet was quite intriguing—she not only presented jade to show goodwill, but also praised His Highness and the Crown Prince on equal footing when His Majesty inquired about the 'Kuodi Zhi', and finally reminded His Majesty that 'brothers should be of one mind.' This attitude does not seem to be entirely biased towards the Crown Prince."
A middle-aged courtier pondered and said, "Du Sima is right. Although the Protector of the Nation Realm works closely with the Crown Prince, she has always acted with great discretion. She has involved the Crown Prince in agricultural improvements, road construction, and the development of maritime trade, thus giving him political achievements while ensuring the success of the projects themselves. This shows that she values the projects themselves rather than simply supporting a particular person."
“Exactly,” another courtier chimed in. “Moreover, although she has a good relationship with the Changsun family, she is not dependent on them. She has an independent status and influence, which is the most valuable thing about her.”
A glint of light flashed in Li Tai's eyes: "Do you mean... that the Protector of the Nation is not a die-hard loyalist of the Crown Prince, but someone who can be won over?"
"I believe it is worth a try," Liu Ji said. "Although the Protector of the Nation is a woman, her insight and ability are no less than any court official. What is even more valuable is that she is deeply trusted by His Majesty and her reputation in the court and among the people is growing day by day. If we can gain her support, Your Highness's standing in His Majesty's heart will increase greatly."
Du Chuke added, "Moreover, the projects that the Protector of the Nation Realm has collaborated on with the Crown Prince—agriculture, water conservancy, roads, and maritime trade—are all tangible achievements. If Your Highness can also collaborate with her and achieve some results, you will not only be able to demonstrate your talent but also be able to rival the Crown Prince in practical matters."
Li Tai paused for a moment: "But how do we win her over? She has worked with the Crown Prince for many years and they have a close relationship. Moreover, she is aloof and seems uninterested in power struggles."
“That is the key,” Liu Ji said. “The Protector of the Nation may seem uninterested in power, but she is extremely dedicated to practical matters, scholarship, and things that benefit the people. Your Highness can start from these aspects and cater to her interests.”
"How exactly do you do it?"
Liu Ji was prepared: "First, continue to deepen the compilation of the 'Kuodi Zhi'. This is a major cultural and educational event overseen by Your Highness, and the Protector of the Nation has already participated in it. Your Highness can use the pretext of seeking her advice to increase contact with her and demonstrate Your Highness's academic achievements and sincerity."
"Secondly, proactively propose new projects in cooperation with the Protector of the Nation. For example... the compilation and editing of medical classics. Your Highness knows that the Protector of the Nation attaches great importance to medicine, and the compilation of the medical classics of the Imperial Medical Bureau was promoted by her. If Your Highness can proactively offer assistance, she should not refuse."
"Third, appropriately demonstrate concern for the hardships of the people. The Protector of the Nation values practical matters most and cares most about the people. Your Highness can pay more attention to issues such as agriculture, water conservancy, and medical care during court meetings and offer insightful suggestions. This will not only demonstrate Your Highness's governing abilities but also resonate with her."
Du Chuke added, "There's one more thing: Your Highness needs to be mindful of your words. The Protector of the Nation dislikes conflict, so when you interact with her, you should purely discuss academic and practical matters, avoiding any mention of the succession struggle. Let her see that Your Highness is genuinely concerned for the Tang Dynasty, rather than simply vying for power."
Li Tai listened carefully, and a plan gradually formed in his mind.
"Scholar Liu is right," he concluded. "Starting tomorrow, I will devote myself more to the compilation of the 'Kuodi Zhi' (Records of the Land). In addition, we can begin preparing plans regarding medical classics. As for court discussions... I will pay more attention to issues concerning people's livelihoods."
The staff members nodded in agreement.
“However,” Li Tai changed the subject, “the actions of that prince at today’s banquet, although perhaps intended to help me, were too hasty and rash. You should all remind the royal family members and court officials who are on good terms with us to act discreetly in the near future and not give others cause for criticism.”
"Your Highness is wise," Liu Ji said. "The most important thing now is to make steady progress and accumulate strength, rather than being impatient for quick results."
The private conversation continued late into the night. After his advisors left, Li Tai stood alone by the study window, gazing at the bright moon in the night sky, his mind churning with thoughts.
He was indeed ambitious. As Li Shimin's favored son, he was exceptionally talented and highly praised. To say that he had no ambition for the throne would be self-deception.
But he also knew that this path would be difficult. Li Chengqian was the eldest son of the legitimate wife, the rightful crown prince, with the support of Empress Zhangsun and the Zhangsun family, and now with the help of the Protector of the Nation, his position was secure.
To shake this situation, one must possess sufficient influence. And the Protector of the Nation might be the one who can increase his influence.
"Master Wang..." Li Tai murmured to himself, "How would you view me?"
---
The next day, Li Tai indeed began his operation.
He first went to Qixia Garden, requesting an audience with Wang Yi on the grounds that he had encountered difficulties in compiling the "Kuodi Zhi". Although Wang Yi was still in seclusion, Li Tai had prepared a good reason this time - he brought specific problems encountered in the compilation, all of which were academic problems that really needed expert guidance.
After the head palace maid announced the meeting, Wang Yi pondered for a moment before finally agreeing to meet.
"It is truly inappropriate to disturb the Master's peaceful cultivation," Li Tai said respectfully. "However, the compilation of the 'Kuodi Zhi' has reached a crucial point, and there are a few issues regarding geographical verification that truly require the Master's guidance."
Wang Yi took the list of questions handed to him and looked at it carefully. The questions were indeed professional, involving the verification of mountain and river orientations, the history of river course changes, and the inference of climate change, etc., and could not be easily brushed off.
"Your Highness, please have a seat," Wang Yi said. "We can discuss these issues one by one."
For the next hour, the two engaged in an in-depth discussion of geographical issues. Wang Yi discovered that Li Tai was indeed erudite, possessing a thorough understanding of classical texts and history, and that the questions he raised were quite insightful. Furthermore, with the help of modern geographical knowledge and a systematic database, she was always able to provide convincing answers.
"Your knowledge is truly admirable." After the discussion, Li Tai sincerely said, "With your guidance, the 'Kuodi Zhi' will surely become a masterpiece that will be passed down through generations."
"Your Highness flatters me," Wang Yi said calmly. "Your Highness's own profound knowledge is the key."
Li Tai didn't linger, and took his leave after asking his questions. But before leaving, he casually mentioned, "By the way, I recently browsed through ancient books and discovered that medical classics from previous dynasties have been severely lost, which is a real pity. I was thinking that you, sir, were in charge of compiling the medical classics of the Imperial Medical Bureau. I wonder if you would be interested in organizing medical classics from past dynasties? If so, I am willing to do my best."
This was said so naturally, as if it were merely an academic interest.
Wang Yi's heart stirred, but his face remained calm: "Your Highness is very kind. The compilation of medical classics is indeed a huge project. The Imperial Medical Bureau is currently working on it, but manpower is limited. If Your Highness is interested, you can take a look at the Imperial Medical Bureau's compilation plan and offer some suggestions."
"That's wonderful." A look of joy flashed in Li Tai's eyes. "I will study it carefully, and if I gain any insights, I will come to ask the Master for guidance."
After seeing Li Tai off, Wang Yi returned to his study and pondered for a long time.
Li Tai's intention was clear—to get closer to her through academic collaboration and showcase his talent and sincerity. This was a clever approach, as academic collaboration was the least likely to arouse suspicion.
Moreover, Li Tai is indeed talented. If he were to genuinely dedicate himself to compiling medical classics, it would be beneficial to this endeavor.
But Wang Yi also knew that there were political calculations behind this. She had to be careful, neither completely rejecting the relationship and causing confrontation, nor getting too close and arousing suspicion.
A few days later, Li Tai indeed sent his suggestions on the Imperial Medical Academy's medical classic compilation plan. The suggestions were very detailed, not only pointing out the difficulties that might be encountered in the compilation process, but also proposing specific solutions, and even recommending several scholars who were well-versed in medical classics.
After reading the suggestions, Wang Yi had to admit that Li Tai had indeed put in a lot of effort. These suggestions were very valuable, and if implemented, they could greatly improve the efficiency and quality of the compilation.
She forwarded the suggestion to the Imperial Medical Bureau and sent someone to convey her gratitude to Prince Wei. At the same time, she also had the matter reported to Li Shimin—not as a complaint, but as a routine report, to show that everything was being conducted openly.
Upon learning this, Li Shimin was indeed very pleased: "Qingque is very thoughtful. Compiling medical classics is a meritorious deed, and it is a good thing that he can participate."
This reassured Wang Yi somewhat. As long as Li Shimin didn't suspect anything, she could continue to maintain appropriate academic exchanges with Li Tai.
After receiving gratitude from the Imperial Medical Bureau, Li Tai became even more actively involved in the compilation of medical classics. He not only recommended scholars but also personally consulted ancient texts to help verify some difficult issues.
Gradually, some of the physicians in the Imperial Medical Bureau began to develop a favorable impression of Prince Wei—this prince was not only approachable but also genuinely knowledgeable and could be of assistance.
When the news reached the Eastern Palace, Li Chengqian felt uneasy.
"My lord, Prince Wei has been spending a lot of time with the Imperial Medical Bureau lately." During a meeting, Li Chengqian couldn't help but bring it up. "What's wrong with him...?"
“Your Highness need not worry,” Wang Yi said calmly. “His Highness Prince Wei is assisting in the compilation of medical classics, which is an academic matter and has nothing to do with court politics. Moreover, this matter is beneficial to the Imperial Medical Academy and the development of medicine in the Tang Dynasty.”
"But his purpose..."
“His purpose is not important.” Wang Yi looked at Li Chengqian. “What is important is how Your Highness responds. What Your Highness needs to do now is not to worry about what the Prince of Wei is doing, but to do what you should do.”
She paused, then continued, "Agricultural improvements must continue, cement roads must be built at an accelerated pace, and maritime trade must be expanded... These are all tangible achievements and Your Highness's most solid foundation. As long as these things are done well, nothing else matters."
These words calmed Li Chengqian down: "The Master is right. I was too hasty."
“In addition,” Wang Yi added, “Your Highness could pay appropriate attention to education and culture. The Prince of Wei oversaw the compilation of the ‘Kuodi Zhi’ (Records of the Land), and Your Highness could also oversee some educational and cultural projects. For example… the compilation of legal texts, or the improvement of the official training system.”
Li Chengqian's eyes lit up: "That's a good idea. I'll have someone make plans right away."
Seeing Li Chengqian regain his composure, Wang Yi felt somewhat relieved. But she knew this was just the beginning.
Li Tai's offensive was ingenious, using academic pursuits as a cover and cooperation as a pretext, proceeding step by step. While Li Chengqian was capable, he was indeed inferior to his younger brother in terms of cunning and strategy.
She must be more careful in balancing the relationship between the two brothers, while also protecting herself from being completely bound to either side.
It's like walking a tightrope; one wrong step and you'll fall.
But Wang Yi did not back down. She was already used to this complicated situation and believed she had the ability to handle it.
But in the quiet of the night, she would occasionally think of her three daughters in the modern world. What would they think if they knew their mother was facing such a situation in the Tang Dynasty?
"Mom is doing something very important," Wang Yi murmured to herself. "You'll understand when you grow up."
Outside the window, the moonlight was like water. The nights in the Tang Dynasty were tranquil and profound, but Wang Yi knew that beneath this tranquility, the undercurrents were growing increasingly turbulent.
Li Tai's ambition, Li Chengqian's pressure, her balancing act... this game of the succession struggle has entered its most crucial stage.
And she must take each step carefully.
It wasn't for power, it wasn't for status, it was simply to help this era, to which she had poured her heart and soul, move towards a better future.
It was also so that her children in both worlds could have a more stable world.
Taking a deep breath, Wang Yi spread out paper and pen and began to plan the next course of action.
The game of chess continued, and she was ready.
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