My father, Li Shimin, please call me Crown Prince

Chapter 275: Prince Jin: The Crown Prince is really plotting a rebellion
After Li Shimin made the decision to order the crown prince to return to the capital within three months, the news was like a huge rock thrown into a calm lake, which quickly caused a thousand waves inside and outside the palace and reached the ears of Wei Wang Li Tai at the speed of a gust of wind.

At that time, Li Tai was leaning on the couch in his study, casually flipping through an ancient book in his hand, trying to find some ways of governing from the wisdom of the ancients, in case of emergency.

Upon hearing the news, the book in his hand slipped unconsciously. He was stunned at first, and then his eyes suddenly filled with irrepressible ecstasy.

Li Tai suddenly stood up and paced quickly back and forth in the study, with thoughts surging in his mind.

My father has finally issued an edict. Li Chengqian, Li Chengqian, your outrageous behavior in Liaodong is finally coming to an end.

As long as you make the slightest mistake, the position of crown prince will be mine.

By then, the whole Tang Dynasty will be under my control!
Never before had Li Tai felt that he was so close to the position of crown prince.

For the current prince, there are only two choices.

One is returning to the court, and the other is not returning to the court.

But no matter which option is chosen, it will be less friendly to the prince.

Now that the imperial edict has been issued, the matter has become public knowledge.

What's more, there is a deadline of three months.

Just at this moment, Chai Lingwu stepped into the study with steady steps.

Seeing the King of Wei so excited, with a perfect smile on his face, he clasped his hands and asked respectfully: "King of Wei, why are you so happy? Is there some great news?"

Li Tai grabbed Chai Lingwu's arm, his eyes full of excitement, and said impatiently: "Father has issued an edict, ordering the crown prince to return to the court within three months."

"This is a God-given opportunity. As long as the Crown Prince makes the slightest mistake, the position of Crown Prince will definitely belong to me!"

Chai Ling Wu Guang was calm and profound. After thinking for a moment, he said, "King Wei, although His Majesty has issued an edict, we must not take it lightly."

"The Crown Prince has made great contributions, and his power is complex and deep-rooted."

"If he obeys this edict and returns to the court on time, I'm afraid he will use his connections and influence in the court to deal with us."

Chai Lingwu was still relatively sober.

The Crown Prince's contributions were enormous, including the expansion of territory and especially the destruction of Goryeo. With such feats, even if Your Majesty wanted to depose the Crown Prince, he would have to consider the consequences.

Even though the prince was suspected of treason before, his current achievements are enough to offset it.

Ultimately, it all depends on what Your Majesty thinks.

Your Majesty has waited until today, after so many things have happened, to issue the edict, which shows that Your Majesty has no serious intention of deposing the Crown Prince.

Li Tai sneered, his expression was quite disdainful, and a hint of ruthlessness flashed in his eyes: "Why should we be afraid of him! If he returns to the court, without the support of Liaodong, he will be like a tiger leaving the mountain. In Chang'an, he will be a fish on the chopping board, and we can slaughter him at will."

"Then, we will unite with the ministers in the court and impeach him for all his inappropriate behavior in Liaodong. Father has always attached great importance to the imperial power and court discipline, and he will definitely punish him severely."

Li Tai was very confident that the Wei Wang Party of today was not the same as the Wei Wang Party of yesterday.

Because of the prince's strong rise, he has completely offended the Five Surnames and Seven Aristocrats, and even shook the fundamental interests of the aristocratic families in the Tang Dynasty.

This made the five surnames and seven noble families give him their full support.

In addition, Chu Suiliang and Fang Xuanling, two important ministers around his father, stood on his side.

Changsun Wuji, the only person who had a significant influence on his father, was now sent to Baekje as governor.

How could Wei Zheng and Yang Shidao stop it?

Chai Lingwu nodded in agreement, but still reminded with a worried look on his face: "That being said, the prince has many supporters in the court."

"Especially Wei Zheng, who is known for his integrity, outspokenness and courage to make criticisms. He is also very loyal to the prince and will definitely argue for him."

"We still need to plan ahead and come up with a comprehensive response strategy to ensure that nothing goes wrong."

Chai Lingwu saw clearly that although the Prince of Wei's party was powerful now, in reality, too many people did not support the Prince of Wei becoming the crown prince.

He just used the King of Wei to attack and suppress the Crown Prince.

They were just afraid that the prince's actions in Liaodong would be repeated in the Tang Dynasty.

If the prince is willing to give up implementing the new policy in the Tang Dynasty, the five surnames and seven families may not necessarily want to fight to the death with the prince.

Li Tai's eyes shone, and he nodded slightly, saying, "Of course I know this."

"Before the Crown Prince returns to the court, we must intensify our efforts and have the Five Surnames and Seven Families spread more rumors that are unfavorable to the Crown Prince among the people."

"We must make the people of Chang'an panic, spread rumors everywhere, and create strong public pressure on our father."

"At the same time, we should speed up contact with more ministers in the court, and promise them high positions, generous salaries, wealth and honor, so that they will stand firmly on our side in the court and jointly impeach the crown prince."

A hint of cunning flashed in Li Tai's eyes, and he began to plan how to manipulate public opinion and court officials.

Chai Lingwu hurriedly said, "King Wei, although there is a basis for cooperation with the Five Surnames and Seven Families, they have always been cunning and pay great attention to the balance of interests."

"We need to make it clear to them that after the crown prince is overthrown, their status and interests in the court will be greatly improved. For example, they can be given more say in the selection of officials and the land tax policy can be appropriately relaxed."

"As for contacting the ministers in the court, in addition to high positions and generous salaries, they can also be mentioned in the future when the King of Wei ascends the throne. They are all meritorious officials who have followed the emperor, and their names will go down in history."

Chai Lingwu was worried that his supporters would fail to deliver at this time. If he wanted to gain support, he naturally had to make more promises.

Li Tai thought for a moment and nodded, "Okay, as long as I can become the crown prince and ascend the throne smoothly, I will give them whatever they want."
-

Inside the palace.

Li Zhi met his father and the queen and took them into a courtyard with ease.

Wu Zhao had been waiting for a long time.

After a little tenderness, Li Zhi said, "Mei Niang, my father has ordered the crown prince to return to the court. The situation is now in chaos. I really don't know how to deal with it. Do you have any good advice for me?"

For the time being, Wu Meiniang is already equivalent to a military advisor in Li Zhi's heart.

Wu Zhao looked calm, raised her head and thought for a moment, then said, "Prince Jin, this is a matter of great importance to the country, and you must not act rashly. In my opinion, you should go and ask Li Ji."

"Li Ji had been to Liaodong in person and was familiar with the local customs and changing situation there."

"Because he captured Hou Junji, he is already at loggerheads with the Crown Prince. Li Ji has been in the imperial court for a long time and is well versed in political schemes. He will surely be able to provide the King of Jin with unique and beneficial strategies."

Wu Zhao actually didn't have a very good plan, but she knew who to ask for help.

Li Zhi nodded slightly, but he hesitated: "I have also thought about Li Ji, but I don't know if he is willing to help me sincerely. In the court, people's hearts are unpredictable. If he has reservations or other intentions, I will be in danger if I go there rashly, right?"

Li Ji used to be the chief secretary of Li Zhi's Jinwang Palace, but after all, Li Ji is now an important official in the court, not to mention a close confidant of his father.

As this matter concerned the fight for the throne, Li Zhi was not very reassured, wondering if the little affection they once had was enough.

It would be disastrous if Li Ji reported his thoughts to his father.

Wu Zhao shook her head slightly and looked at Li Zhi firmly: "Prince Jin, there is no need to worry."

"Li Ji is a man of great foresight. Now that he is in opposition to the Crown Prince, he will certainly seek help from outside forces to consolidate his own position." "Prince Jin is of noble status. If we can reach a tacit understanding with him, he will certainly do his best to help."

"In order to protect himself, he also hopes to have reliable support. The King of Jin is exactly his ideal choice."

"Besides, he knows that the King of Jin is kind and benevolent. Cooperating with the King of Jin can not only increase the chances of winning, but also relieve him of worries. For him, this is a safe move."

Wu Zhao's analysis was clear and logical, which made Li Zhi feel relieved.

After hearing this, Li Zhi felt relieved and said, "Mei Niang is right. I will go visit Li Ji now."

"But the strategy proposed by Li Ji is not what I want, so what should I do?"

"If the strategy puts me in a dilemma or goes against what I want, how should I choose?"

Li Zhi knew very well that in such a complex situation, a wrong decision could lead to disastrous consequences.

If you are not careful in your fight for the throne, you may be crushed to pieces.

The Xuanwu Gate Incident that happened to my father is still fresh in my mind.

Wu Zhao smiled gently, her eyes sparkling with wisdom, and said: "Prince Jin, no matter what strategy Li Ji offers, you must weigh the pros and cons based on your own situation. His experience and knowledge will surely point the way for you."

"King Jin just needs to act cautiously and adapt to circumstances. If his strategy is different from what King Jin wants, you can ask more questions and find out his true intentions."

"At that time, we will combine their strategy with the current situation and analyze the pros and cons. If it is really difficult to make a decision, we can discuss it together and find a solution."

Wu Zetian's words were like a reassurance, making Li Zhi gradually more resolute.

Li Zhi took a deep breath and said, "Okay, I'll go there right away. But the situation is changing rapidly, and the forces of all parties are intertwined. I'm really worried that if I make a wrong move, I'll lose everything. This is not only about my fate, but also about the country and people of the Tang Dynasty."

Wu Zhao gently held Li Zhi's hand and encouraged him, "Prince Jin, don't worry too much. As long as you stay calm and judge the situation, you will be able to find a foothold in this complicated situation. Mei Niang will also be there to give you advice and help you through this difficult time."

"Prince Jin is not alone. Together we can handle this."

Wu Zhao's eyes were full of trust and support, which made Li Zhi feel a powerful force.

At this time, Wu Zhao had become Li Zhi's confidante and military advisor.

Li Zhi looked at Wu Zhao's determined eyes, and a warm feeling welled up in his heart. He said, "With Mei Niang by my side, I feel more confident. I will go to Li Ji's mansion to see what he thinks."

Wu Zhao watched Li Zhi leave, her eyes gradually becoming firm.

She wanted to help Li Zhi succeed in his bid for the throne.

Only in this way can one break free from the cage.
-

Li Ji's residence.

Li Zhi bid farewell to Wu Zhao and hurried over with anxiety and expectation.

When Li Ji heard that Prince Jin was coming, he already understood something and hurriedly welcomed him into the study.

Now the news that His Majesty has issued an edict ordering the Crown Prince to return to the capital has spread throughout the court and the country. The situation is turbulent now.

Li Ji naturally knew in his heart what the purpose of the Prince of Jin coming here at this time was.

But just as Wu Zhao guessed, Li Ji had been waiting for the Prince of Jin.

He has no choice.

Back then in Liaodong, when I followed Your Majesty's secret decree and secretly arrested Hou Junji, it was already impossible to say that I had surrendered to the Crown Prince.

The King of Wei doesn't need him either.

King Jin was his only choice.

What's more, he had the relationship with the former Chief Secretary of Prince Jin's Mansion.

It was sunset now.

In the study, the candlelight flickered and the atmosphere was solemn.

After the host and the guest sat down, Li Zhi got straight to the point and said, "Lord Li, my father has ordered the crown prince to return to the capital within three months. The situation is complicated now, and various forces are ready to make a move. I wonder if Lord Li has any opinions. I hope Lord Li will be generous with his advice."

Li Zhi's eyes were full of anticipation.

Li Ji frowned slightly, stroking his beard unconsciously, and after thinking for a moment, he said, "Prince Jin, the Crown Prince has great influence in Liaodong, and he is definitely not an easy person to deal with. Now that Your Majesty has ordered him to return to the court, there are many variables. In my opinion, the King of Jin should temporarily stand on the side of the Crown Prince."

Li Ji's tone was calm and firm, but his words made Li Zhi very confused.

Li Zhi frowned and asked, "Mr. Li, why do you stand on the side of the crown prince?"

"The Crown Prince's power is so strong. If he really has evil intentions, it may endanger our Tang Dynasty."

"Supporting him at this time is like raising a tiger to cause trouble, isn't it?"

"Moreover, everyone in the court is afraid of the Crown Prince's power. If I stand by his side, will it cause resentment from other forces?"

Li Zhi was full of doubts and urgently needed a reasonable explanation.

Li Ji smiled slightly and said slowly: "Prince Jin doesn't know. Although your majesty is afraid of the prince's power in Liaodong, after all, the father and son have a deep affection, and blood is thicker than water. If the prince of Jin shows his support for the prince at this time, your majesty will feel that the prince of Jin is concerned about the overall situation and values ​​brotherhood, which will make it easier for him to win your majesty's trust."

"Your Majesty has always hoped that the princes would live in harmony and work together to support the Tang Dynasty. The move by Prince Jin is exactly what Your Majesty wants."

Just these words made Li Zhi feel as if the clouds had parted and the moon was visible.

Li Ji patiently explained the pros and cons: "After the crown prince returns to the court, he will inevitably have a fierce conflict with the King of Wei and others. At that time, the King of Jin can sit on the mountain and watch the fight, wait for the right time, and then make a move. If you rashly get involved in the fight, you will fall into an irretrievable situation if you are not careful. The court fight is like a chess game. If you make a mistake, all the steps will be wrong. I hope the King of Jin will think twice before acting."

Li Zhi's heart moved, as if he had realized something, and he nodded slightly and said, "What Lord Li said seems to make sense. Please continue to teach me. However, if the prince really fights with the King of Wei after returning to the court, how should I seize the opportunity?"

Li Ji continued, "Prince Jin, at the beginning of their fight, you only need to keep a low profile and observe the movements of all parties in secret. You must not express your position too early, so as not to become the target of public criticism."

"Then, when the Crown Prince and the King of Wei are fighting fiercely, you can come forward at the right time, which can not only show the benevolence of the King of Jin, but also win the praise of Your Majesty."

"At the same time, the King of Jin can take this opportunity to win over the ministers who have lost their way in the struggle and expand his own power. But in the process, the King of Jin must be cautious and not reveal any flaws, so as not to be caught by others."

Li Zhi nodded and said seriously, "Mr. Li is right. I have learned my lesson. But if the prince really intends to rebel and usurp the throne, how should I deal with it? If I support the prince, will your majesty regard me as an accomplice? But if I do not support the prince, how should I explain my previous actions to your majesty?"

After all, the prince was really plotting a rebellion, and this was no joke.

It would be terrible if I were regarded as an accomplice by my father.

In the fight for the throne, there are crises everywhere and any action may be exploited by others.

The King of Wei was eager to capture him and the prince in one fell swoop.

In this way, the position of crown prince will be secure, right?

The King of Wei only needs to fight with the Crown Prince, but the King of Jin has more aspects to consider.

Not only do you have to please everyone, you also have to avoid various traps.

(End of this chapter)