Chapter 2, the Prime Minister is imprisoned

However, at present, you are ultimately the Prime Minister of the current dynasty, and you have been personally praised by the King as possessing the ability to "manage the heavens and the earth, and embody the talents of both ancient and modern times." Therefore, to put it bluntly, you must also consider the face of the monarch.

Soon, Lü Bi placed the official hat, official robe, jade tablet, official seal, thick-soled boots, and waist badge all on a lacquer tray. With his hands shackled, he walked step by step towards the palace. The distance from the Prime Minister's residence to the palace was as much as 2 li. By the time the Prime Minister had not yet reached the palace gate, the king had already received the information

The first layer of meaning: If you are a loyal minister, after leaving, do not continue to chatter about your reputation and honor; let us part on good terms. Moreover, I am giving you face, so do not sulk unnecessarily. Of course, you are ultimately a loyal and capable minister, and I will not let you be left in the dark—whether it is clear or not, you know it yourself.

Indeed, it must be acknowledged that the eclectic school of thought is open-minded, and it has truly produced a considerable number of talents. Among the various schools of thought in the world, the eclectic school ranks among the top.

However, on the other hand, the current Great Li Court truly cannot do without the Chancellor

The power of the Grand Inspector of the royal court is indeed considerable, overseeing all officials, including the Chancellor. However, since he is of the same rank as the Chancellor, he cannot directly confront him, but he can initiate impeachment proceedings

At this point, even the most astute individuals would begin to harbor suspicions! Just as Xiao Hao surmised, for an emperor, the suffering of the common people is certainly important, but what is even more crucial is the seat beneath oneself—if that seat is lost, I would no longer be able to do anything for the common people!

Indeed, if this matter were to be placed upon someone else, it would be just the same; however, when it comes to Prime Minister Lü Bi, I am afraid your suspicion is simply too great

However, Lü Bi only felt a chill in his heart. No matter what, he had made considerable contributions to the Da Li royal court, yet now he was imprisoned merely because of a rumor. Well, it seems that Lü Bi has "accidentally" forgotten that he too had his own schemes.

The Great Li Dynasty, although it can only be considered a small to medium-sized nation in the present-day Eastern Victory Divine Land, has far-reaching ambitions. In the context of the Eight Trigrams, "Li" signifies brightness; thus, the founding monarch chose "Li" as the national title, hoping that the royal family would become prosperous and that the future Great Li Dynasty would grow strong. However, the current Great Li Dynasty truly struggles to embody brightness.

However, despite his extraordinary anger, Lü Bi still adjusted his mood to appear as calm as possible. After a long while, he finally became tranquil; "Come here!"

At this point, the article does not continue; as the saying goes, everything is implied without words! Even superfluous statements like "the Goddess Peak and the mouth of the Young Long River are both in Haizhou" were not written.

However, there was one thing that exceeded Xiao Hao's expectations, which was that the Minister of Justice, being an old fox who had been in office for decades, did not immediately submit this petition to the king upon seeing it, but instead chose to suppress it

The king ... ... '' An elderly eunuch was carefully accompanying him nearby, appearing to be around sixty years old.

Do not go out, then where to go? There is no other option, just stay in the imperial prison.

Kong Xiang, having served in official capacities for several decades, possesses thoughts that are not easily fathomed by ordinary individuals. When this petition was received, although some of its contents were shocking, it warranted a thorough investigation, even to the extent of consulting maps for a detailed examination. Naturally, it was also necessary to dispatch personnel to gather information from outside.

The entire "gaps" of the Great Li Royal Court, when combined, precisely form several distinctive strokes on the map, vividly depicting the side profile of a turtle; of course, this may seem insignificant. However, in Haizhou, there is the highest peak of the Great Li Royal Court—Shennu Peak; and to the north of Shennu Peak flows a great river—Youlong River, one of the major rivers in Dongsheng Shenzhou, known as the "little dragon on land".

Two days had passed since the matter was delayed, and the minor officials of the Prime Minister's residence finally became aware of the exaggerated rumors circulating among the people. They then informed the chief steward of the Prime Minister's residence. Upon hearing these rumors, the steward was instantly frightened, turning pale, and he hurriedly informed Prime Minister Lu Bi that very night

However, do not forget that Xiao Hao had also allowed the Li family to spread rumors in the martial world at that time. This rumor quickly spread to the Central Plains of the Great Li Royal Court, and naturally reached the ears of the current king; it subsequently also reached the ears of Prime Minister Lü Bi

In the Eastern Victory Divine Continent, the nine schools of thought in the world are: Confucianism, Miscellaneous School, Mohism, Legalism, Logicians, Agricultural School, Military School, Medical School, and Diplomacy School

The third layer of meaning: Overall, I am very disappointed and dissatisfied with you; you may as well stay in the prison!

However, once the overseer left, Lü Bi, who had just shown signs of suffering, suddenly opened his eyes, stood up abruptly, and a mad gleam flickered in his eyes. "Who! Who is it! How dare they disrupt the plans of the miscellaneous family! It was so close; if the layout had succeeded, we could have seized the fortune of the three thousand miles of mountains and rivers of the Great Li royal court, enough to bring forth a great sage from the Legalists whose talents could shine as brightly as the sun and moon!"

Escape? Lü Bi self-mockingly said, "Some people are alive, yet they are pointed at by thousands! I do not wish for that! I would rather be dead, with someone carving my achievements on a monument. At least, I would leave behind a legacy of fame, and perhaps there will be a day of return! There is always hope, isn't there?

It is explained that some readers have questions about how a single rumor could lead to a minister facing death. In the feudal era of ancient times, this was indeed the case. Many have been killed or even exterminated due to rumors. Particularly, if a minister is too clever, their intelligence may be seen as almost demonic, which can arouse the suspicion of the emperor. Furthermore, this book also utilizes the interests of nobles and ruling classes harmed by the chancellor; sometimes, these individuals only need an excuse to stir up trouble.

This matter is difficult to decide at the moment. The Grand Inspector, who first received the "petition form," is also revising the petition but has yet to submit it. Meanwhile, the monarch, upon receiving the information, is hesitating, contemplating how the Chancellor will ultimately respond.

Sigh... The King of Shenglong suddenly let out a sigh, and for a moment, his figure appeared somewhat hunched. Since ascending to power over a decade ago, he changed the national title to "Guiping," which signifies a peaceful heart, valuing harmony, and collectively seeking prosperity. The reason for this was that the court of Dali had reached a peak of various social conflicts over the past five hundred years; the stability of the royal court had begun to waver, with factions vying for power and profit within the court. In order to ease class struggles, it became necessary to adopt the so-called governance philosophy of "inclusive and eclectic"—which, in reality, was merely a way to muddle through!

However, this matter is truly significant. Xiao Hao only believed that he had come up with a good idea, yet he could not comprehend the immense impact this idea would have on the Da Li royal court. Regardless, the contributions of Prime Minister Lü Bi were also recognized by everyone.

The old eunuch beside him waved his hand, and someone immediately removed the tray from Lü Bi's hands

The following describes a local "Daoist" who made an accidental discovery. This discovery is simply "shocking"! Even the astute Grand Secretary Kong Xiang nearly jumped up when he saw this "speculation"!

However, the unwritten parts leave endless room for imagination. Look, you are preparing to set up a "Xuanwu Great Formation" within the territory of the Great Li Royal Court. Now, tell me, what are you planning to do!

This glance flashed by in an instant, but the old eunuch beside him was no ordinary person. Skilled individuals are indeed present within the palace, and this statement holds some truth in any world. However, the old eunuch is quite a character; having become a eunuch, he has no descendants and only a few years left to live, so why bother with so much? It is better to simply turn a blind eye to it all

Having entered the imperial prison, Lü Bi, despite his status, was locked in a relatively decent cell

Indeed, the current King of the Great Li Dynasty, Shenglong, is in deep anguish. The nation is in decline, and as a ruler in his forties, how could he not understand this! Yet it is precisely because he understands that he feels so powerless! However, the newly appointed Chancellor, Lü Bi, a representative of the eclectic school, has given King Shenglong a glimmer of hope! But now, this hope has been ruthlessly shattered!

"My lord, please be careful." The old steward, for a moment, appeared somewhat aged. Although the chancellor held the highest position among officials and usually did not bow to lower-ranking officials—after all, he was a seventh-rank official in front of the chancellor!—if the chancellor were to fall, there would be no good outcome for people like himself. To put it bluntly, they were merely sycophants relying on their master's power; without a master, a servant remains a servant.

Lu Bi looked at the desolate figure of the steward Xiao Tiao and sighed. When one fails, one must pay the price, and at this moment, he believed that his whereabouts had long been under surveillance from all sides, making escape impossible.

This petition has undergone various refinements, truly embodying a style that is concise yet heartfelt, profoundly expressing the concerns and worries of an ordinary commoner regarding the court of the Great Li. However, in the middle section, this petition takes a turn to express apprehensions about the 'treacherous individuals'.

At this moment, the king Shenglong, who has already passed the age of 40, is looking at the map with a gloomy expression, his finger continuously tracing the lines. With each stroke, his expression grows increasingly somber. Finally, with a determined heart, he picks up a brush and begins to draw on the precious map.

However, the current Shenglong monarch only has the map before him; it must be said that connecting the gaps from all over the country, along with Shen Nü Peak and You Long River, truly forms the image of a Xuanwu!

To speak frankly, even if it is ultimately proven that you are innocent, having already been imprisoned for six months, what do you think you can do once you are released

Lu Bi, exhausted and in pain, closed his eyes and said, "Is it really so difficult to accomplish anything?"

The palace, with its red walls resembling a coiled dragon, reveals numerous glazed golden domes amidst the lush greenery. Two rivers flow like dragons playing in the water, passing through several ponds adorned with lotus leaves. Each palace room is exquisitely luxurious, with jade railings, walls made of Nüwa stones, coral-carved window frames, and window screens crafted from silk and jade. In the Hall of Nurturing the Heart, the beams are made of sandalwood, the columns of crystal, and pearls hang high like a full moon. The floor is laid with white jade, the railings are carved from emerald, and the curtains are woven with golden threads and adorned with dragon pearls. Although it is nighttime, this place resembles broad daylight. In the Hall of Nurturing the Heart, the beams are made of sandalwood, the columns of crystal, and pearls hang high like a full moon. The floor is laid with white jade, the railings are carved from emerald, and the curtains are woven with golden threads and adorned with dragon pearls. Although it is nighttime, this place resembles broad daylight.

"Master Lü, please." Where to go, no need to say, the imperial prison.

However, Kong Xiang, the Grand Historian of the Dali Wang Court, is a representative of Confucianism and naturally harbors some resentment towards Lü Bi, who comes from a heterodox background. Just look at what the heterodox school proposes: a combination of Confucianism and Mohism, and a fusion of names and laws! Isn't this a slap in the face of Confucianism?

A petition was handed to a minor official, then entered the office of a seventh-rank official, where it underwent continuous revisions before being submitted in succession. Within just three to five days, it had already reached the capital.

"My lord, you must not! My lord, you should flee under the cover of night; I will hold the fort here! Moreover, it is the perfect time, being the dead of night." This steward is indeed loyal

The most glorious are always the founding monarchs; whereas the monarchs of fallen states are forever the representatives of tragedy. The destruction of the nation and family, the separation from spouses and children, and the endless humiliation cannot be adequately described by words.

Now, the question arises: the area originally organized by Prime Minister Lü Bi has formed an image somewhat resembling a turtle, and now with the addition of Goddess Peak and the Youlong River, it increasingly resembles a Xuanwu formation! The more one looks, the more it resembles, and the more it resembles, the more one looks! Goddess Peak is located in the western part of Haizhou, while the estuary of the Youlong River is to the north of Haizhou. So, Prime Minister, what exactly are you thinking?

This does not imply that the Grand Historian has any ulterior motives, but rather that he must be cautious and prudent. This matter pertains to the responsibilities of a chancellor; if handled well, it could be a significant achievement; if mishandled, it could lead to considerable trouble. If the situation escalates, there is even the possibility of being falsely accused by Chancellor Lü Bi of the crime of "colluding with foreign powers, unable to bear witness to the resurgence of the Great Li royal court," which would undoubtedly result in being held accountable.

Alas, a loyal minister leaves his country, tarnishing his name. Your loyalty and integrity, I shall certainly scrutinize. " After the king finished speaking, he turned and departed

Not entering the Hall of Supreme Harmony, merely reaching the Gate of Supreme Harmony, the Prime Minister, and the former Prime Minister Lü Bi immediately understood that the King had made a decision. The palace gates were opened wide, indicating: I understand you, and the matter will not be pursued too rigorously, at least a door has been opened; however, not entering the Hall of Supreme Harmony signifies that you should not return to court for official duties. Of course, once you enter this palace gate, you should not expect to leave again—the great door behind slowly closes

Prepare a plain outfit and an iron chain. I will bind my own hands and go to the palace to plead for forgiveness! Lü Bi is ultimately not a simple character. There are rules in the world; since one has entered the court to serve as an official, one must adhere to the royal principles. If one has committed a crime, even if it is merely a rumor, one must follow the established regulations.

Go ahead, hurry up and prepare

Rumors are certainly exaggerated, with all sorts of claims circulating, leading to misinformation! The most severe accusation is that the Prime Minister intends to seize the fortune of the Great Li royal court and prepare to establish himself as king! Such words are too harsh, they are simply heart-wrenching

Now, this petition has been continuously revised and submitted, and within just seven or eight days, it has surprisingly reached the hands of the current Grand Inspector, Kong Xiang. Like the Prime Minister, the Grand Inspector is also a first-rank official; the Prime Minister is responsible for the great powers of the realm, while the Grand Inspector oversees the appointment and promotion of officials. As long as any emperor is not a fool, he would not allow the Prime Minister and the Grand Inspector to advance and retreat together, as they are generally in an adversarial relationship.

In reality, this is nothing short of a declaration of severance! The word "clean" carries profound significance

The second layer of meaning: a bit deeper. I think you can barely be considered a loyal minister, as there have always been quite a few people speaking ill of you and reporting on you behind your back, and I believe you are aware of this; however, there is no need for you to argue about these matters, is there? Moreover, I am fully aware of those little tricks you have been up to!

Initially, this petition was quite crude, lacking any subtlety, akin to outright cursing; however, the Xiao family ultimately belonged to the lower class and possessed limited knowledge, making it commendable that they could articulate the matter at all. Nevertheless, this was of little consequence, as Prime Minister Lü Bi's reforms had indeed harmed the interests of too many people. Moreover, as previously mentioned, Lü Bi himself was a representative of the eclectic scholars at the court of the Great Li Dynasty, and his actions were inevitably tainted by personal interests. However, this was of little consequence, as Prime Minister Lü Bi's reforms had indeed harmed the interests of too many people. Moreover, as previously mentioned, Lü Bi himself was a representative of the eclectic scholars at the court of the Great Li Dynasty, and his actions were inevitably tainted by personal interests

It is only Kong Xiang's pressure that has caused Xiao Hao to suffer. It has been almost a month, and there is still no news. The Prime Minister is about to organize the army to "reclaim" Haizhou. I ask you, can you handle things more efficiently

Looking up at the brilliant sky, a shooting star streaked across; if my guess is correct, it must be a powerful being passing by.

The monarch is already resplendently attired, flanked by the yellow-robed attendants and guards, exuding an air of grandeur. The expressions of all present, illuminated by the butter oil torches, reveal a play of light and shadow, further enhancing the imposing and majestic atmosphere.

The old eunuch stood by silently, yet he could understand the king's current dilemma. Are rumors worth believing? But then again, who is the chancellor? He is a person well-versed in Confucianism and Mohism, proficient in names and laws, knowledgeable in the classics and the intricacies of the universe, and skilled in mathematics! Such a talented individual possesses immense capability! Your abilities have already made the monarch feel envious and unable to grasp you! Sometimes, having too much ability can also be a sin—another form of bearing the burden of one's own talents.

However, everything pales in comparison to this crude painting! It is a depiction of the "Xuanwu" that can barely be recognized or is forced to fit! As a monarch in an era of rising fortunes and competition, how could one be unaware of such things? Even if one is not well-versed, a basic understanding should still be present

The sound of the iron chains is chilling, the clattering noise echoes far into the night

Lu Bi suddenly raised his head, and in his eyes, there seemed to be a faint whirlpool. In his gaze, the fortune above the royal palace had already begun to thin; there was even a hint of ominousness taking shape. The Great Li royal court is already in decline! Moreover, disaster is brewing!

Detestable! Detestable!! To sever a person's means of livelihood is a grievance that lasts a lifetime; to obstruct the path of others is a matter of life and death!

In today's world, everyone is aware that the end of the Dharma age is approaching, an old era is fading away, while a new era is emerging! At this juncture of transition between the old and the new, it is the time when heroes are most likely to arise! However, the old world, unwilling to fade away, may very well experience a resurgence—indeed, some have already discovered that the spiritual energy between heaven and earth is slowly recovering

As for the term "qing," it is not used arbitrarily; it refers to the social classes of kings, nobles, scholars, and commoners, etc. However, Lü Bi is ultimately the foremost figure of the miscellaneous schools, and even if he resigns from his official position, he remains a noble; at the very least, he is still of the scholar class.

In fact, the saying "A loyal minister leaves his country, and does not tarnish his name" is not a compliment at all. The entire sentence carries profound meaning

The darkness of the officialdom can be summed up in one sentence: the utmost of framing is baseless, and the utmost of slander is taken for granted. This means that if someone truly wants to harm you, there is no need to find any real evidence; it is sufficient to fabricate a "reasonable" explanation! As for whether it is true or false, is it really that important?

Indeed, do not be deceived by the imposing presence of the household servants of the prime minister; they are all individuals who have sold themselves into servitude. Once a prime minister falls, they will have to return to a life of begging on the streets.

Master! The steward has emerged once again.

Haizhou! Lü Bi truly deserves to be called a chancellor, as he immediately identified the target. However, even with the target locked in, what can be done? The current situation only leaves one trembling with anger

Moreover, Sheng is also the royal surname of the Great Li Dynasty. The current monarch of the Great Li Dynasty bears the surname Sheng and is known as the esteemed Ping. However, it seems that this "Sheng" and "Long," along with "Li," still cannot make the Great Li Dynasty prosperous. I wonder if it is a case of excess being as detrimental as deficiency.

In such circumstances, the emergence of Lü Bi was striking, both in terms of administrative ability and talent. Consequently, he was continuously promoted within three years and ultimately became the Prime Minister, standing above all others. Lü Bi was also a capable individual; through the rectification of vacant lands and other measures, he brought substantial revenue to the state without significantly impacting the interests of the powerful, allowing the struggling court of the Great Li to show signs of revival.

When the Prime Minister arrived at the palace gate a quarter of an hour later, the palace gate was already wide open, the butter torches crackling, and the guards standing in formation. The dark, moonless night made everything appear even more solemn and imposing. The long path of torches extended all the way to the Taihe Gate, where it came to a halt.