Chapter 6, The Emperor's Perspective
Fang Jun and Liu Nanguang hurriedly approached Li Longji to pay their respects
Li Longji said: "It is still far from the time for him, and it is imperative to confer the title of Crown Prince upon Li Chongjun."
Li Longji said: "Does Lord Eagle understand the situation at Shanhaiguan?"
The dragon eagle observed the ships moored at the dock and the Turkic women and children disembarking in an orderly fashion, each displaying expressions of joy and happiness. Comforted in his heart, he said: "This is what is called 'the heart of compassion, which everyone possesses.' Such sentiment transcends national and ethnic boundaries; otherwise, one would not deserve to be called a human. Well then! A story is about to unfold!"
Long Ying lowered his voice and said: "He has now become the 'Ugly Divine Doctor' Wang Tingjing, but if you are ill, do not seek him out, for I fear he might kill you with his treatment"
Long Ying said with some disbelief: "Your elder brother has exceptional learning abilities!"
It only works in special circumstances
The dragon eagle gazed at the bustling scene of unloading passengers and cargo at the dock, expressing with great interest: "I never thought it could be so complicated. Isn't gift-giving a form of transaction? In the past, selling official positions was done at a clear and fixed price."
Will Xin Cunzhang now regret ignoring his warnings?
Li Longji said: "Originally, it was completely incomprehensible, but fortunately, when I received the news of 'the southern people migrating north', I had already started to think ahead and set a favorable date for military exercises six months ago. As long as you propose to the Turks that you have a way to bribe the officials in charge of the exercises, they have no reason to doubt you"
Li Longji said: "Because what you and I are concerned about is the same matter, which is the power of the great commander. This applies to any military officials who have close ties with Lord Eagle"
Li Longji said: "The difference between Lord Ying and me is that Longji has visited Shanhaiguan three times for on-site observation. Longji has a proposal; we will take the lead and go to Shanhaiguan to assess the environment, while Lord Ying can conveniently make contact with the Turks there"
He paused briefly and continued: "In fact, I have been working on this aspect for a long time, and it was you, Master Eagle, who triggered it. When a large number of treasures from the 'Great Khan's Tomb' were presented before Longji, and I was dazzled by the sight, the phrase 'Wealth can connect with the divine' echoed in my mind. Master Eagle's mind is much more agile than Longji's; prior to that, I had never considered using gold, silver, and jewels in this way."
Long Yingdao: "You have heard Fang Jun speak of him."
The dragon eagle regarded him as if he were the most precious thing, sighing: "Neither Wanrenyu nor the dragon eagle has misjudged the person."
Long Ying was overjoyed as he held the hands extended by the other person, smiling and saying: "The demeanor of King Linzi surpasses that of the past, which brings great comfort to the common people."
The fleet docked at Huairou, over fifty li northeast of Youzhou City, completing a long journey, marking the successful conclusion of the first phase of the "Southern Migration to the North" initiative. The next challenge is how to transport the people beyond the pass. Traveling from Huairou to Shanhaiguan requires crossing Tanshou, Jizhou, and Pingzhou, a journey that exceeds twenty days, highlighting the daunting nature of this task. Without military assistance, it would be nearly impossible. Fortunately, the harsh winter has passed, and the days of spring are upon us, coupled with the military's ample preparations, including the availability of donkey carts and horse-drawn carriages, significantly alleviating the hardships of the journey.
Long Ying inquired: "Is it possible for Zhang Jian to kill all the warriors?"
Li Longji said: "Among the princesses, the ones most favored are Changning and Anle, who are particularly spoiled by their favor. They are also the main targets of Longji's efforts to win over, aside from removing Empress Wei. Currently, my relationship with them is exceptionally good, as Longji can provide them with what they need most when they require it"
Li Longji lamented, "Had I not been eager to part with it, I could have commanded a higher price. Now that Dao and his brothers have come to Youzhou, I have sufficient financial resources to ensure their family thrives and lives in comfort, but I cannot afford to lose even a single child."
Long Ying sighed, "I am completely disconnected from the current situation of the court; fortunately, you are here to support me. When you mention timing, what timing are you referring to?"
Li Longji then released his hand, leaned against the railing, and said leisurely: "In order to accomplish the great feat of 'Southern People Moving North' initiated by Lord Eagle, I have been busy for half a year. The twenty docks that Lord Eagle sees now were completed one after another during this period. A significant amount of effort was also spent on the reclamation area across the Yushui River, prioritizing safety above all; otherwise, it would be a wasted effort, leaving people particularly dissatisfied."
Li Longji met his blazing gaze and said: "Only upon reaching this point do I understand how vast the territory of our Tang Dynasty is, and how difficult it is to govern, thus realizing the great achievements of Lord Eagle. However, it is only upon hearing the grand plan of 'the southern people migrating north' that I truly comprehend Lord Eagle's character and vision. Lord Eagle asked me why I have grown a beard, and the reason is that I hope to see this endeavor through to the end, personally escorting this group of over ten thousand elderly, weak, women, and children out of the pass"
The two individuals arrived at the ship's railing, overlooking the situation of numerous vessels docking at the shore. Although hundreds of horse-drawn carts and donkey carts were gathered at the dock, with hundreds of people busily engaged in their tasks, everything was orderly, showing no signs of chaos.
Others greeted and paid their respects, all of them being masters of the Eighteen Iron Guards, including their leader, Wei Kang
The term "ling" refers to the tombs of the emperor and empress, as well as those of the retired emperor or empress. Even the tomb of the crown prince cannot be referred to as a "ling"; thus, Empress Wei's claim is undoubtedly an overreach.
It is indeed Li Longji
Long Ying Song exhaled and said: "I didn't expect you, my brother, to come to pick up the ship, which startled me."
Li Longji said: "Eagle Master has forgotten the timeless saying 'Wealth can communicate with the divine.'"
Fang Jun received the order to disembark, and Liu Nanguang followed closely behind him. All those responsible for the manned three-masted ship were brothers of Jiang Zhoulong, and Liu Nanguang's arrangements were indispensable.
Long Ying exclaimed: "Selling half, and yet I can exchange it for so much gold?"
Li Longji nodded in agreement
Li Longji took a deep breath of the river breeze and said: "The Emperor has four sons and eight daughters. Among them, the children born to Empress Wei include one son and four daughters. The son is Li Chongrun, who was tragically murdered, and is a cousin of Longji; the four daughters are Changning, Yongshou, Yongtai, and the youngest, Anle. This includes the late Yongshou and the murdered Yongtai, who are now all conferred the title of princess."
Long Eagle Path: "How should Zhang Jian and others respond?"
Li Longji said with a bitter smile: "In this regard, the Emperor is merely a yes-man to Empress Wei. Lord Ying indeed possesses foresight, knowing that such a day would eventually come, leaving me, Li Longji, with no other choice"
They can now summon the wind when they desire it and call for rain when they wish; what more do they need
Li Longji said: "Anyone can do this, but Li Longji cannot, and it is unwise. I sold half of my treasures and obtained a large amount of bright gold, exceeding 10,000 taels. I spent nearly 3,000 taels to buy off the servants of the Eastern Palace, smoothing all connections and clarifying their master's preferences before taking action"
Li Longji stated: "Li Chongfu is the second son, least favored by Empress Wei, and his relationship with her is even worse than that with Li Chongjun. He was falsely accused by Empress Wei and is rumored to have been imprisoned; however, I suspect he has already been killed by her"
Li Longji's face showed a serious expression as he said in a deep voice: "Just as Lord Ying has informed Longji and the General, our true opponent is the demon Tai Le Xu Yun behind Yang Qingren and Wu Sansi. Longji certainly does not dare to be careless; the 'East Palace Tragedy' has made me aware of his methods, but it still does not compare to the extent of Tai Le Xu Yun's grand strategy that can be fully displayed this time"
Long Ying smiled and said: "It seems you have reversed our identities."
Long Yingxi said: "You thought of it!"
Did it not clearly inform the Turks who I am
Li Longji responded with a smile, his gaze never leaving the dragon eagle. He gripped it tighter, his eyes shining brightly, and sincerely said: "Thank you for your hard work, Eagle Master!"
Li Longji said in a deep voice: "Zhang Jianzhong and others are not foolish; they have seen through the fact that Wu Sansi is stirring up trouble behind the scenes, concentrating their efforts to deal with the Wu family members, and strongly advising the Emperor to execute the Wu clan. The Emperor, however, remains deaf to their pleas. Zhang Jianzhong and others then sought a compromise, requesting the reduction of the Wu princes' titles, but the Emperor naturally refused. This matter remains at a standstill, and Zhang Jianzhong and others are absolutely unwilling to give up."
Long Ying pondered for a moment and said, "Is it not the intention of Zhang Jian and the others?"
Long Yi asked the Eagle: "What Longi said, is it useful for you, Master Eagle?"
Li wwwhetushu . comcom Longji smiled and said: "This Longji understands. It shouldn't take much time; I have drafted a plan and am confident that the action can be completed within a month"
Li Longji released his left hand and, holding onto Long Ying with his right hand, walked towards the side of the shore. Shang Yu and Wei Kang, aware that the two had something to discuss, dispersed to various directions, remaining vigilant.
Li Longji chuckled and said: "Does Lord Eagle still consider Longji to be that little boy locked away in the Eastern Palace, unaware of the world outside? It has been five years! I have learned many things, and thus I can guess that what Lord Eagle needs now is someone who can influence the court. That person is Longji, isn't it!"
As Fang Jun stated, sending women and children to the Yushui Tuntian area on the eastern bank of the Yushui River, north of Pingzhou and within the Great Wall, is the responsibility of the military. However, their involvement in the subsequent transportation is inadvisable; otherwise, if the matter were to be leaked, it would lead to unnecessary troubles. Although it could be attributed to the Empress, it would be extremely unwise.
Long Ying sighed, "What if I do not give up?"
Long Ying, in a state of confusion, asked: "In what aspect is the arrangement?"
The warship departs from the dock, vacating the berth
Li Longji gladly said: "Heroes see alike."
Li Longji lowered his voice and said: "Currently, Zhang Jianzhi's side still holds a significant advantage. Wu Sansi and his followers, as well as the sycophants of the Eastern Palace, are still constrained and obstructed by the old forces due to their recent emergence. More importantly, military power is still tightly controlled by Zhang Jianzhi and others, which could force another coup if pressed too hard; it is not impossible. Therefore, when I say the situation is not urgent at this moment, that is what I mean. What Lord Ying is worried about will not happen in the short term. Any personnel arrangements can simply be announced by the General, and Zhang Jianzhi and others will definitely support the General." So when I say the situation is not urgent at this moment, that is what I mean. What Lord Ying is worried about will not happen in the short term. Any personnel arrangements can simply be announced by the General, and Zhang Jianzhi and others will definitely support the General.
Li Longji lamented: "Is it really so easy to relocate? Moving from the capital to the western capital seems justified and legitimate, with no one daring to voice opposition, as it superficially appears to be a rectification of chaos. Longji does not believe that shrewd individuals like Zhang Jian and others cannot see the pros and cons, yet they are left with no choice. This proposal surely originates from Wu Wei; how could they possess such insight? It is evident that Tai Le Xuyun is manipulating things behind the scenes, making it difficult to reverse. Alas! One day, a situation will arise where external matters are prioritized over internal ones"
Long Ying sighed, "You have spent so much effort in persuasion, merely to convince me to let you go to Shanhaiguan. Very well! I concede in this matter. Tell me, what clever plan do you have for leaving the pass?"
Long Ying frowned and said: "What difference does it make if your elder brother makes his appearance in the future and relocates the capital back to the Divine Capital?"
Li Longji said with delight: "Only with the appreciation of Lord Ying can Longji truly feel joy in his heart. It turns out that bribery is also a form of knowledge. Who is the recipient of the gift? How should the gift be presented? Under what circumstances should it be given? The methods of gifting must be meticulously planned. The greatest taboo is to neglect one aspect while focusing on another, or to make the recipient believe that you have ulterior motives, which could lead to a counterproductive outcome."
Li Longji stated emphatically: "Under the current circumstances, it is nearly impossible, unless I have my father's support, which will not happen. The opportunity is fleeting, and Zhang Jianzhong and others are poised to miss this great chance, which is truly lamentable"
Li Longji was taken aback and said, "He actually went to Chang'an?"
Li Longji did not respond immediately; he turned to Fang Jun and said: "Immediately unload the personnel and cargo, and ensure arrival at Qingping Valley west of Yuyang before dark"
Li Longji casually remarked: "How about a large-scale military exercise?"
Li Longji said: "Regardless of Wei Kang and his brothers, or Xiao Yu, they are all blessings from heaven for me, Li Longji. I am truly very grateful, and it has greatly increased my confidence, allowing me to dare to undertake anything. Why have I not seen Brother Fu?"
Li Longji said: "Your problem is my problem. Without Lord Ying, there would be no present-day Li Longji. The world of the Li family would surely fall into the hands of Yang Qingren."
Long Yingdao: "Hearing you say this, it seems that obtaining a minor official position in the new dynasty should not be a difficult task"
The term "Da Shuai" refers to Guo Yuanzhen
Long Ying gazed at Li Longji with a divine scrutiny, exclaiming in astonishment: "My goodness! It seems our positions have reversed; how could you possibly have guessed my innermost thoughts?"
Li Longji stared in astonishment
The dragon eagle stared in disbelief, its eyes wide open. Although it was not of its own kind, the way Empress Wei treated it was beyond mere cruelty; it was hard to describe. No wonder Li Chongjun grew weary of life in the palace
Li Longji said: "To understand what is needed, one must first inform Lord Ying of the new circumstances both inside and outside the court"
Li Longji stated: "To be precise, it should be that the Emperor conferred the title of Empress upon Consort Wei, and posthumously granted her deceased father, Wei Xuanzhen, the title of Prince of Shangluo, and her mother, Lady Cui, the title of Princess of the Prince. Under the instigation of Wu Sansi, Empress Wei first 'listened to state affairs behind a curtain' and then employed various means to expand the influence of the Wei family, even changing her father's title from Prince of Shangluo to King, and establishing a temple named 'Baode Ling'.
Li Longji sincerely expressed: "I have genuine admiration and respect for Lord Ying, especially regarding the recent matter of 'the Southern people migrating north.' The great commander stated that only Lord Ying would be willing and capable of doing this. If these Turkic people, who are familiar with the Central Plains, were to become like lost dogs and turn into bandits, the consequences would be unimaginable, and that is precisely what the scoundrel Yang Qingren hopes to see happen"
Long Yingdao: "Let us proceed according to your elder brother's plan. I never expected that King Linzi would resolve many of the issues that have been troubling me."
Long Ying sighed, "Li Chongjun is in grave danger!"
Long Yingdao: "Fang Jun has generally explained it clearly; it is quite tricky. The difficulty lies in how to discreetly and unnoticed allow so many people and books to slip away to the outside of the pass. I fear it will require some concoction.
Does it make sense
Li Longji stated: "It is easy to say it is easy, and difficult to say it is difficult; one must observe the timing, for haste will not lead to success. Another advantage of winning over the Emperor and those around Empress Wei is the ability to grasp the latest developments, thus avoiding the indiscriminate use of remedies."
Li Longji said: "Longji must first report in detail to Lord Ying about what he knows, only then will Lord Ying understand"
Li Longji stated: "Absolutely not, it is merely a suggestion to accept the relocation of the capital. The Emperor has already become a sinner of the Li family. The Holy Divine Emperor's move from Chang'an to Luoyang, while intended to consolidate power, is indeed based on practical necessity. The Divine Capital serves as a hub for trade and grain distribution across the realm, being the nexus of both land and water transportation. Crucially, to ensure that a place as accessible as the Divine Capital remains stable as Mount Tai, it is essential to station a significant military presence to oversee the realm; however, Chang'an, located in the Guanzhong region, is advantageous for defense but disadvantageous for offense. Moreover, due to excessive cultivation and development of arable land, it cannot support a large stationed army. Should there be any disruption in the grain transport, a great famine disaster would ensue.
Li Longji continued: "Li Chongmao is the fourth son, who has been frail and sickly since childhood. Due to his unsuitability for the rigors of travel, he was left in Fangzhou."
Dragon Eagle said: "Brothers, let us not indulge in pleasantries. How is Xiao Yu? Can we be of assistance?"
Again, he said: "Why do you have a face full of beard? Are you trying to play the role of a little brother? Ha!"
Long Ying asked: "Did the struggle begin on the first day?"
Li Longji said: "The time for me to enter official service has also arrived"
The Dragon Eagle did not understand and asked: "Opportunity?"
Long Ying exclaimed: "There are actually as many as four sons. I only know Li Chongrun and Li Chongjun, and I have heard of another son, who seems to be named Li Chongfu."
Another person lagged two steps behind Li Longji, with a smile as radiant as a flower, and respectfully said in a delicate voice: "Shang Yu sends greetings to Master Fan."
Dragon Eagle Path: "Is it really that simple?"
Long Eagle Path: "When you go to Chang'an, you may meet him."
The ship where the Dragon Eagle is located first docked, and eight individuals immediately leaped onto the vessel. Each person wore a wide-brimmed bamboo sun hat, pulled down to their eyebrows. The leader strode forward with a commanding presence, exuding vitality and confidence
Li Longji said in a deep voice, "Return to Chang'an!"
Long Ying stared at him for a long while, and finally could not help but ask: "Do you really understand?"
Long Ying frowned and said: "I have more important matters that require you, my elder brother, to take action personally"
Long Ying said with delight: "Fortunately, I have you, brother; otherwise, in such a complicated situation, who could make sense of it"
Li Longji is no longer the Li Longji of yesteryear, filled with immense confidence, exuding a certain charisma marked by a strong personal style, captivating in every gesture and movement
Long Ying nodded and said: "Returning from Luoyang to Chang'an signifies a reshuffling of the landscape, and moreover, Chang'an is the stronghold of the aristocracy, which will inevitably lead to a fundamental change in the political situation"