Rebirth: Phoenix Riding the Ninth Heaven

Time flies. Three full months have passed since Emperor Qian summoned his ministers to discuss the Crown Prince's position. During this time, the entire court has been engulfed in the fierce struggle for the crown prince's position, with various factions battling openly and covertly, each back and forth, creating a lively atmosphere. However, to this day, the ultimate winner of this prestigious position remains unknown.

In this fierce competition, two powerful factions, led by two princes, were locked in a fierce struggle. Each employed every possible means to win over important officials at court and cultivate their own trusted factions, while at the same time seeking to create trouble and obstacles for the other side. One, relying on its exceptional talent and wisdom, frequently presented unique insights and statecraft at court, winning the admiration and support of many ministers; while the other, relying on the vast influence of its family and its abundant financial resources, bought hearts and minds and secretly cultivated a network of relationships in an attempt to gain greater advantage.

At the same time, the struggle between the two factions gradually shifted from the open to the covert, with shady tactics becoming increasingly common. Assassinations, false accusations, sowing discord...these schemes were impossible to prevent. Even those ministers who had previously maintained a neutral stance were forced to choose sides, or risk becoming victims of the conflict. An atmosphere of tension and oppression permeated the court, and everyone feared being drawn into this brutal power struggle.

As night fell, the palace was hushed, the only exception being the brightly lit Imperial Study, which exuded an unusual atmosphere. The Emperor sat at his desk, a look of uncommon worry and heaviness between his brows. Beside him stood his mentor, a weathered yet still vigorous old tutor. They sat opposite each other, surrounded by vast tomes and treasures symbolizing the glory of the empire. Yet, amidst this solemn atmosphere, their central concern was the future of the dynasty—which prince should be crowned heir?

Emperor Qian sat atop the resplendent, solemn dragon throne, his eyes narrowed slightly as he gazed down with a solemn expression. After a long pause, he finally broke the oppressive, almost suffocating silence. He gently opened his lips, and the voice that emanated, though low, held immense majesty and power, seemed to shake the entire court.

"Teacher!" Emperor Qian said slowly, his tone revealing deep worry and helplessness, "I am now facing an extremely difficult decision. My eldest son and second son both possess the qualities of a king. My eldest son is steady and prudent, and acts cautiously and thoughtfully; while my second son is talented, quick-witted, and often makes surprising moves. Both of them are promising talents, making it difficult for me to decide who to appoint as the crown prince. You know, this matter of appointing a crown prince is related to the life and death of our country. How dare I have even the slightest slackness in my heart!"

The Grand Tutor stood calmly in the court, his gaze like the warm spring sun, radiating a gentle and wise light. He gently stroked his snow-white beard, pondered for a moment, and then replied calmly and leisurely, "Your Majesty, your concerns are perfectly natural. After all, the matter of selecting a successor is a matter of fundamental importance to our country and its people, and must not be taken lightly. I believe that when selecting a crown prince, we must not only consider the candidate's personal abilities but, more importantly, their moral character. History is full of examples of men of exceptional talent who, however, were tyrannical and devoid of virtue, ultimately becoming incompetent and unjust rulers. Such a situation inevitably plunges the country into instability, and the people into deep suffering and torment."

Emperor Qian nodded slightly, expressing his approval and agreement with the Grand Tutor's words. However, his furrowed brow and pensive expression revealed that while he intellectually agreed with the Grand Tutor's words, deep down he was still entangled in conflicting feelings, unable to make a decision. How could he choose a suitable crown prince, one who possessed both virtue and talent and was capable of shouldering the heavy responsibility of governing the country, from among the many princes? This question was a tangled mess, and it troubled Emperor Qian immensely.

Seeing that Emperor Qian still had doubts, the Grand Tutor continued, "I have read extensively in historical records and am well aware of the importance of selecting a successor. For example, Emperor Taizong of the Qi Dynasty also deliberated over the issue of choosing a successor. Ultimately, he chose the relatively mediocre but virtuous Li Zhi. After ascending the throne, Li Zhi, through his benevolence and diligence, ushered in the Zhenguan Reign, ushering in the golden age of the Qi Dynasty. In contrast, Emperor Huizong of Qi, Zhao Ji, although gifted, indulged in art and neglected government affairs, ultimately leading to the decline of Qi and its eventual destruction. This shows that a monarch's virtue is far more crucial than talent."

"Teacher, the Emperor Qian frowned slightly, a hint of anxiety in his expression. He spoke again, "I know that both virtue and talent are crucial for a ruler. However, these two princes have completely different personalities! One is calm and reserved, thinking things through; the other is lively and outgoing, full of innovation and adventurous spirit. Faced with such disparate characters, I truly struggle to determine who is more capable of shouldering the heavy responsibility of governing the country!"

The Grand Tutor pondered for a moment, then slowly spoke, "I believe that, in addition to moral character, many other factors should be considered. First, political wisdom: the crown prince must possess the ability to manage the government. Second, popular support: only a leader who can command the support of the people can stabilize the regime. Third, diplomatic skill: managing relations with other countries is equally crucial. Last, but not least, personal qualities, including integrity, perseverance, and humility, are essential to becoming an excellent leader."

Emperor Qian sat on the dragon throne, his eyes narrowed slightly as he carefully savored the Grand Tutor's profound words. His brows alternately furrowed, then relaxed, as if a storm of intense thought was brewing within him. As time passed, Emperor Qian's once solemn expression gradually brightened, like a clear sky revealed after dark clouds have dispersed.

He slowly opened his eyes, his gaze gleaming with energy. With a hint of excitement and resolve, he spoke, "Teacher, your insights are truly profound! They're like a revelation, deeply inspiring. Regarding the selection of a crown prince, I will thoroughly and thoroughly consider the two princes' daily performances. Furthermore, I will closely consider the needs of our country's long-term development and make the most appropriate and suitable decision. I absolutely do not wish to plunge the entire country into an irreparable crisis due to my momentary impulse or prejudice."

Upon hearing this, the Grand Tutor's face immediately lit up with a gratified smile. He bowed respectfully to the Emperor Qian and said, "Your Majesty is wise and powerful! I firmly believe that under your wise and far-sighted leadership, our dynasty will surely achieve peace and prosperity, and embark on a glorious path of prosperity!"

All was silent, the night had deepened to its deepest point. The cold moon, hanging high in the sky, cast a cool glow, like a layer of silver gauze gently covering the earth. At this moment, the two people in the room, after a long and in-depth conversation, finally slowly came to an end. This long and meaningful conversation had deeply touched the heart of the matter.

Emperor Qian slowly rose from his seat, his movements dignified and solemn. He then bowed deeply to the Grand Tutor, expressing his deepest gratitude. He raised his head, his gaze firm and respectful, and said, "Teacher, this conversation with you tonight has been a revelation to me. I have benefited greatly from it. Tomorrow, I will summon all the ministers to discuss this matter. We must race against time and devote all our efforts to identifying the right candidate for the crown prince as soon as possible."

Upon hearing this, the Grand Tutor also bowed hurriedly and responded with a humble and sincere attitude: "Your Majesty, you are too kind! It is the duty of a minister to help Your Majesty solve problems. I am willing to use all my wisdom and strength to spare no effort to assist Your Majesty in accomplishing this great mission that concerns the country and future generations." After that, the Grand Tutor bowed deeply to Emperor Qian again, and his loyalty was evident in his words.

As the last candlelight extinguished, Emperor Qian stood alone at the window, gazing at the night sky in the distance, his mind already clear. He knew that the road ahead was bound to be full of challenges, but with the right guidance, he could lead the country towards a bright future. All of this stemmed from the late-night conversation with the Grand Tutor tonight—a clash of wisdom concerning the fate of the country, a profound reflection at a turning point in history.

Qian Qiang, holding his shaky body steady, held a long conversation with the Grand Tutor all night long. His face was pale as paper, his eyes bloodshot, and every word he spoke seemed to require all his strength. The long conversation had severely drained his strength and vitality, leaving him looking incredibly frail.

Upon seeing this, the eunuch in charge of the palace hurried forward to support Emperor Qian, and advised with a worried look on his face: "Your Majesty, you have been so overworked all night, it is really harmful to your health! Your Majesty, please take care of your body and go to rest quickly." After saying that, he carefully supported Emperor Qian and slowly walked towards the bed.

Emperor Qian nodded slightly, allowing the eunuch to support him. His steps were weak and frail, and each step seemed difficult. Finally reaching the bed, the eunuch gently placed Emperor Qian on the bed and carefully covered him with a blanket.

Emperor Qian lay on his soft bed, his body aching and his head groggy. But his heart was filled with concern for national affairs, his thoughts swirling endlessly. Though physically exhausted, he knew that as the ruler of a nation, he shouldered the expectations and responsibilities of countless citizens...