The First National Preceptor of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 331

Zhang Zhen shouted, then drew his sword and asked while wiping it, "What is military quality? I've never heard of it. If military quality alone is enough to win a war, then what is the Tang Dynasty's purpose in keeping us?"

Xu Tian was drinking tea and talking to someone on the side.

"You're really of no use now that the Tang Dynasty is strong."

Surrounded by powerful enemies, why don't they directly attack the Tang Dynasty?

That's because the Tang Dynasty is currently economically prosperous, and both the Turkic Khaganate's leader, Jili Khan, and the people of Goryeo in the north are eager to submit to the Tang. Is it because the Tang has generals of unparalleled bravery that the various Turkic tribes have no choice but to submit?

Zhang Zhen was surprised by Xu Tian's eloquence and immediately sheathed his sword.

"Naturally, it is because His Majesty is wise and powerful, possessing the talent to rule the world today. Only with such a sage ruler can the four directions submit."

Zhang Zhen was somewhat displeased. He hadn't expected that the Grand Tutor would accuse him of treason on their first meeting. If he had agreed to it, it would have shown that he harbored disloyal intentions.

Xu Tian suddenly burst into laughter.

"This Grand Tutor went to the west to develop education so that the country could have more talented people, so that the legacy could be passed down for generations. When the youth are strong, the country is strong."

General Zhang Zhen burst into laughter and stood up.

"I have long heard of the Hongwen Academy founded by the Grand Tutor. Moreover, the Grand Tutor now holds the lifeline of all the scholars in the world. Do you think you can use this to blackmail me?"

A fierce glint flashed in Xu Tian's eyes. This person was simply a tough nut to crack and impossible to communicate with, so he could only give him a wink.

Two ghostly figures pinned Zhang Zhen to the ground, and a long knife was placed against his neck.

"Kneel down! As a first-rank official, you not only fail to pay your respects to me but also show no respect for me. Even without the honorary title of Grand Tutor, I can still cut you down with my sword. The Northern Protectorate does not need you, Zhang Zhen, to function."

The blade in Qin Xian's hand gleamed coldly.

Zhang Zhen's expression immediately changed, and he clasped his hands in a fist and said, "Please give your orders, Grand Tutor, and I will obey without question."

Xu Tian didn't even look at him, but just sipped his tea. Zhang Zhen's face changed color instantly, and his head was about to hit the ground in an instant.

"This humble general is not like those officials in the capital. Having been exposed to the wind and sun here all year round, I have long lost the false etiquette of officialdom. Your Excellency's trip to the west must be fraught with difficulties, and I am willing to do my utmost to help you."

Xu Tian finally calmed down and said, "Let him go."

Then a young woman walked in. She was slender, but she wore a bright yellow robe typical of nomadic people. Her skin was fair, and her large eyes were like clear autumn water, piercing into one's heart at first glance.

Zhang Zhen stood there dumbfounded, staring intently.

Unexpectedly, this young girl walked over and, without caring that he was a fourth-rank border general, immediately kicked him in the shoulder.

"How dare you stare at this princess like that."

Dongfang Tingyun and the other soldiers remained silent. Zhang Zhen had really messed up; they hadn't expected him to be so blind.

Everyone frowned for a moment.

Then I saw Zhang Zhen kneeling on the ground.

"This humble general did not know you were a princess. Please forgive me, Your Highness."