Chapter 267: Appointed Prime Minister, Minister of Personnel, Compiled National History, and Honored as Grand Master of Purple Gold
After completing the imperial examination, Li Longji set off for the Lishan Palace in late October.

After more than two years, a new round of construction of the palace has been completed.

Due to the eternal hot springs, the Zhou, Qin and Han dynasties all built palaces and villas on Mount Li as a place for the emperor to take warm baths and escape the cold.

King You of Zhou built the "Li Palace" here, Qin Shihuang built the "Lishan Tang", Emperor Wu of Han built the "Han Li Palace", Emperor Taizong built the "Tangquan Palace", and Emperor Gaozong built the "Wenquan Palace".

Starting from the fourth year of Tianbao, Li Longji, in order to please Yang Yuhuan, built a large number of buildings according to the terrain of Mount Li. He built palaces around the mountain, built a city wall around the palace, and constructed a mountain trail and a double road leading to Chang'an.

In August of the sixth year of Tianbao this year, Li Longji named the new palace "Huaqing Palace" after the line "Hot springs gush out and waves surge, Huaqing clears away evil and lasts long" from Zuo Si's "Fu on the Capital of Wei".

In other words, this year's Wen Tang was the first time that Li Longji came to Huaqing Palace and bathed in Huaqing Pool.

Li Longji also built a new pond, Haitang, specifically for Yang Yuhuan.

The hot spring pool is named after its flat surface which resembles a crabapple flower.

Li Longji also believed that only the crabapple blossoms could highlight Yang Yuhuan's charm.

In addition, the construction of the Hall of Eternal Youth was completed in May this year.

Since the Hall of Eternal Youth is the place where the spirits of seven Tang emperors are enshrined, including Emperor Gaozu Li Yuan, Emperor Taizong Li Shimin, Emperor Gaozong Li Zhi, Empress Wu Zetian, Emperor Zhongzong Li Xian, Emperor Ruizong Li Dan and the posthumously named Emperor Taishang Xuanyuan Laozi Li Er, the Hall of Eternal Youth is also known as the Hall of the Seven Saints.

The sky and earth were clear and cold, and they carried Yang Yuhuan and the Yang sisters to the Lishan Palace in a grand procession.

Thousands of chariots and flags cover the plains, and the clouds, grass and trees shine brightly.

Accompanying them were civil and military officials, attendants and palace maids, imperial guards, as well as some of the families of civil and military officials, stretching over a dozen miles.

Because in the next few months, Li Longji would preside over state affairs in Huaqing Palace.

Li Longji was in a good mood. He sat on the dragon chariot, following the pace of the palace maids and their families, and enjoyed the scenery along the way with Yang Yuhuan.

He never thought that Chang'an was in an uproar over the incident of "no talented people left in the wild".

Even the children of the aristocratic families were dissatisfied with this.

They believed that Li Linfu had manipulated the scholars of the world for the so-called "no talented people left in the country, and all nations at peace".

And the sage actually obeyed, which had a huge impact on the literati.

It took Li Longji a whole day to reach Huaqing Palace.

It is built against Mount Li in the south and faces the Wei River in the north.

On the other side of the mountain is an orchard.

In the northern part of Mount Li, from the top of the mountain to the bottom, there are palaces and pavilions everywhere.

There are also government offices and mansions of ministers around it.

From now on, a large amount of supplies will be transported from Chang'an every day, and the cost will be unlimited.

The saint's daily expenses in Huaqing Palace were not enough to cover the total assets of hundreds of middle-class families.

Li Longji officially entered the Huaqing Palace from the west gate Wangjing Gate.

He needed three days to rest and allow all officials to settle their families before he could begin to handle government affairs.

Spring cold showers in Huaqing Pool, hot spring water slides and gels.

Yang Yuhuan didn't seem as happy as before, which made Li Longji try every means to please Yang Yuhuan.

Opening up the Ziwu Road, creating an official road from Fuling to Chang'an, setting up post stations, and preparing good horses were just one of them.

Little did people know that on top of Mount Li, King You of Zhou, Ji Gongyin, lit beacons to trick the princes in order to win a smile from Bao Si.

……

In mid-November, a light snow suddenly fell in Chang'an, and the snow fell on Li Xuan's hat.

After three months of inspection in Hedong, Li Xuan returned to Chang'an.

During this inspection, Li Xuan dealt with the local tyrant who presented Xuanyu to him and the local tyrant who tried to assassinate him, and punished the corrupt officials who colluded with the local tyrants.

Dozens of carts of gold, silver, and jewelry were obtained, and hundreds of carts of silk and money.

The land of the powerful was distributed among tenants and common people.

Officials such as Kong Xing, the prefect of Pingyang County, had been taken back to Chang'an and sentenced to severe punishment.

The unfilial county magistrate Zheng Yanzuo was dismissed from his post and was never allowed to serve as an official again in his lifetime.

For the powerful people in the world, Li Xuan's inspection was neither light nor heavy.

Although some powerful families were destroyed, most of the big families are still there.

But they knew that Li Xuan would not give up and would attack them as soon as he got the chance.

The powerful people could only try their best to prevent Li Xuan from getting hold of the evidence.

At the same time, a sense of resentment accumulated in my heart.

They thought Li Xuan broke the rules. They were a privileged class, so how could they be treated like untouchables?

"King Tianshui, the Saint ordered you to wait in Chongming Pavilion."

When Li Xuan arrived at Xishui Posthouse, the closest to Huaqing Palace, a eunuch came on horseback to inform Li Xuan.

"According to the order!"

Li Xuan bowed.

After he came back, he went directly to Huaqing Palace. The Duke of Song's Mansion, including Li Shizhi, had already moved to the Huaqing Palace.

He wanted to see what Li Longji would say when he returned this time.

After bathing and changing clothes, Li Xuan rode to Huaqing Palace.

Li Qian also came to Xishui Posthouse to pick him up. After Li Xuan chatted with Li Qian, he asked Luo Xing, Xue Cuo and other personal guards to go back with Li Qian to the mansion that the emperor had allocated for Li Shizhi.

After Li Xuan arrived at Huaqing Palace, he crossed the Wangxian Bridge, entered the Beiliao Gate, and arrived at Chongming Pavilion.

Li Longji's carriage had not arrived yet, so Li Xuan was waiting in Chongming Pavilion.

He was standing outside the second-floor window, looking at the beautiful scenery of Huaqing Palace.

The palaces and towers were covered with silver flowers, and the cold snow fell lightly.

Gazing into the inner palace from afar, the snow was like fine salt, gently falling, outlining a simple and elegant picture for the carved beams and painted buildings.

About quarter of an hour later, Li Longji came out of Huaqing Palace through Kaiyang Gate and his carriage stopped at Chongming Tower.

The inner palace of Huaqing Palace has four gates: Kaiyang Gate in the east, Zhaoyang Gate in the south, Jinyang Gate in the north, and Wangjing Gate in the west.

There are many hot spring pools in the inner palace, as well as the Feishuang Hall where Li Longji and Yang Yuhuan lived, and the Changsheng Hall.

In addition, even the court was outside the inner palace.

"Meet the saint!"

Li Xuan went downstairs and paid his respects to Li Longji who was sitting on the dragon chariot.

"Qilang, stand up!"

Li Longji got off the dragon chariot and said to Li Xuan.

"Thank you saint!"

Li Xuan bowed again.

"Qi Lang has been in Hedong for three months. He has eradicated treacherous and treacherous people, intimidated the scoundrels, and impeached those who are undisciplined and unfilial. It can be said that his merits are complete."

Li Longji took Li Xuan's hand and walked into the second floor of Chongming Pavilion together.

The eunuchs and palace maids were tidying up the pavilion in the front and setting out tea and snacks.

Charcoal fire for heating was also placed in the Chongming Tower.

"It is only thanks to the saint's divine power that things can go so smoothly."

After taking his seat, Li Xuan complimented Li Longji.

"During this trip to Hedong, what did Qilang see? I want to hear his true thoughts."

Li Longji asked Li Xuan again.

"Forgive me for speaking frankly. After a hundred years of peace, land annexation has become increasingly prevalent. Although the prosperous times are still here, the future is unpredictable. The new Changping Law needs to be implemented quickly. Since ancient times, an emperor who can govern the world in peace is a wise ruler. If a saint can govern the world and benefit hundreds of generations, he will be a saintly ruler through the ages."

After Li Xuan calmed down for a while, he said to Li Longji.

They sat by the window on the second floor and could see the snowflakes falling outside.

The fireplace next to them provides them with warmth.

Li Xuan emphasized that there would be no problem with peace during Li Longji's time, but the country would be in danger a hundred years after Li Longji passed away.

It is impossible that Li Longji didn't know the story of dynasty changes.

Emperor Wen of Han's strategy of keeping a low profile allowed the country to remain strong for generations.

Li Xuan hinted that if Li Longji implemented the new Changping Law and a series of subsequent new laws, the country would be able to prosper for hundreds of generations.

Who would not praise this in the future?
"In that case, I'll leave it to you."

After taking a sip of tea, Li Longji said to Li Xuan: "I will announce it in the court tomorrow, so be prepared!"

"I will not let down the Saint's trust!"

Li Xuan stood up and bowed to Li Longji.

The appointment as prime minister is a foregone conclusion and cannot be changed!
Li Xuan did not listen to Li Qian's report about Pei Kuan becoming prime minister, which meant that a situation of three prime ministers might be formed.

Otherwise, Pei Kuan would be dismissed as prime minister tomorrow and Li Xuan would be appointed as prime minister on the same day. This has never happened before.

Generally, a new prime minister will be appointed after a period of time has passed since the prime minister was dismissed.

"Qi Lang has unparalleled military achievements and talent. He handles government affairs with integrity and is dedicated to reporting illegalities. He has a thousand thoughts in his mind and has issued numerous decrees that benefit the country and the people. If I were to find someone in the court to be the prime minister, it would definitely be you."

Li Longji helped Li Xuan up and said.

"The Saint has entrusted me with an important task, and I shall serve the Saint wholeheartedly. Please dismiss me from my post as the governor of Hedong, Shuofang, Hexi, and Longyou, as well as my other posts as an envoy."

Li Xuan took the initiative to ask Li Longji for orders.

"That's it! First, remove Qilang Hedong, Shuofang Jiedu, Zhidu, Yingtian, Yafan, Jiedu and other envoys."

"Qi Lang will no longer hold the military power of Longyou and Hexi, but he will be the governor of Longyou and Hexi as the prime minister. In this way, the Bailang Qiang, Tuyuhun, Subi, Dangxiang, Tongjia and other tribes that have surrendered will not dare to act rashly; Huihe and Tubo will not dare to covet the Tang Dynasty. Qi Lang's prestige as a famous general is the stone of the country. When Huihe, Tubo and others are completely terrified, he will be promoted to the post of governor of Hexi and Longyou."

"Qi Lang is relieved of his duties as ambassador to Hexi, Longyou, Yingtian, Zhidu, Fangfang, Yantie, and Taoji. He is also relieved of his duties as ambassador to Chishui Army and ambassador to the silk and horse trade of Sanshoujiang City."

"Qilang still holds the positions of Hexi Changxing Transport Envoy, Longyou Herdsmen Ambassador, and Yellow River Transport Envoy."

Li Longji seemed to have had a plan in place and had arranged Li Xuan's position clearly.

Yang Yuhuan proposed to let Li Xuan remotely lead Hexi and Longyou without giving him military power in order to intimidate Tubo, Huihe, and the five affiliated tribes. This was exactly what Li Longji wanted.

The other duties are indeed not suitable to be held concurrently.

However, Li Longji felt that Li Xuan did a great job as the ambassador of the Longyou herdsmen.

There have been wars for three years, but even so, the number of horses in the Tang Dynasty's pastoral supervision has reached more than 900,000, not including the increasing number of war horses in the Helong army.

In addition, Li Longji also heard that Li Xuan was breeding Qinghai Cong horses in a place called Yinglong Island in Qinghai.

He also spent a large sum of money to purchase stallions from the Western Regions and bred excellent Hequ horses.

Li Longji believed that Li Xuan had the talent to raise horses, so he continued to hold the position concurrently.

Even if Li Xuan resigned as the ambassador of Longyou herdsmen, Li Longji would not let other governors hold this position concurrently.

There is also the Hexi Changxing Transport Ambassador, a position previously held concurrently by the prime minister.

Li Xuan used Changxing Transport to transport a lot of treasures for him, so he asked Li Xuan to continue.

Li Longji also planned to appoint Li Xuan as the Yellow River Transport Ambassador.

In this way, although Li Xuan removed many diplomatic posts at once, except for the Jiedushi of Hexi and Longyou which were already "in name only", Li Xuan still retained the three most powerful ambassadorial posts.

"I...obey the order!"

Li Xuan was not pretentious and felt relieved when he bowed to Li Longji.

He had always been worried that Li Longji would directly deprive him of his positions in the four towns.

Now it seems that Yang Yuhuan's pillow talk was still quite effective.

As long as the nominal commander of the Helong Army remains, his influence will always be in the army.

With the cooperation of his old subordinates, he was able to control the Helong army at the critical moment.

In fact, the retention of the Longyou Herdsmen Ambassador and the Hexi Changxing Transport Ambassador was within Li Xuan's expectations.

This position was originally held by Li Longji's most trusted minister.

It was impossible for an ordinary Jiedushi to obtain the right to raise horses.

In history, An Lushan got it in the 13th year of Tianbao.

But he could only manage a limited number of pastoral supervisors in the northern part of Fan Yang.

Most of the pastoral supervisors in the Tang Dynasty were in Longyou and Hexi areas, otherwise they would not be called the "Longyou" pastoral group.

An Lushan was unable to reach Longyou as his influence was out of reach.

"Qilang has left the army. But no one can take over all of Qilang's troops. I plan to appoint four commanders in the four towns. Qilang has many brave generals and talented people under his command. You can recommend some."

Li Longji said to Li Xuan.

When the commander-in-chief leaves the army and makes great achievements, he will definitely be promoted from within the four towns.

Li Longji was well aware that the chief commander would not be parachuted in from outside.

The Helong Army first attacked the Uighurs, and then successively annihilated the 500,000-strong Tibetan army.

If a head coach is parachuted in, who would be convinced?
Apart from Li Xuan, what kind of commander could intimidate such an army?
"This kind of important matter can be decided by the saint. I have already left the army, so I will not say more."

Li Xuan spoke vaguely, indicating that he would no longer interfere in military affairs and just wanted to preside over the new law peacefully.

"How could I be as familiar with the talents of my subordinates as Qilang? I know Qilang is loyal, but can't he share my worries?" Li Longji said unhappily.

"I am terrified. Please ask the saint to ask the famous generals, and I will introduce them to you in detail."

Li Xuan quickly replied to Li Longji.

"How about An Sishun? I have heard of his name since the early Kaiyuan period."

Li Longji nodded secretly and asked Li Xuan about An Sishun.

"When General An participated in the Battle of Wujie, I was not yet born. He is the descendant of a loyal minister and is devoted to the country. His father, General An Bozhu, was still on horseback at the age of seventy, and General An was also in his fifties and still fought in armor. From the Battle of Lishui to the Battle of Jiuqu, and then to the Battle of Dafeichuan, General An has made great contributions. I think he is capable of leading an army."

Li Xuan introduced An Sishun to Li Longji.

To be honest, An Sishun was loyal to the Tang Dynasty, not Li Xuan's cronies. But Li Xuan still did not hesitate to speak well of An Sishun.

"A loyal minister! Where is the good of letting him be in charge?"

Li Longji thought about An Sishun's life and deeds, and wondered where it would be more appropriate to place the four towns.

"I think he can go to Shuofang. His qualifications can intimidate the Shuofang army."

Li Xuan reminded Li Longji.

"Makes sense!"

Li Longji nodded, Shuofang really needed a strong general like An Sishun to guard it.

"Where's Gao Xiuyan?"

Li Longji asked another deputy envoy.

Li Xuan's answer was the same, elaborating on Gao Xiuyan's hard work and great contributions, and that he was a key role in the Battle of Lishui.

"Let a brave general like Gao Xiuyan take charge of Taiyuan!"

Li Longji took the initiative to propose that Gao Xiuyan serve as the governor of Hedong.

He deliberately ignored Cheng Gui and Li Guangbi.

Cheng Gui of Shuofang and Li Guangbi of Hedong, even though they had made meritorious contributions this time, could not become Jiedushi.

Because they were all Wang Zhongsi's trusted subordinates who were promoted by him.

The Wang Zhongsi case had just passed, and Li Longji's doubts had not yet been eliminated.

Li Xuan would not be so ungrateful as to recommend the two of them.

Therefore, Li Longji wanted to dispatch the powerful generals under Li Xuan to Hedong.

"The saint is wise!"

This was exactly what Li Xuan wanted.

"Who are the two generals under Qilang with the highest achievements and abilities?"

Only then did Li Longji turn his attention to Helong.

"Wang Nande, the ambassador of the Lintao Army who once killed the son of the Tibetan king, followed me to participate in the battles of Lishui, Baitinghai, Jiuqu, Kubahai, and Dafeichuan. He is a general with superb abilities and rich experience."

"There is also Geshu Han, who came later. He is the son of Geshu Daoyuan. He joined the army at the age of 40. He participated in the Battle of Yuhai before and made great contributions. During the Battle of Jiuqu, he captured several cities in a row and fought in the wilderness. He killed generals and captured flags as easily as taking something out of a bag. During the battle of the Dafeichuan cavalry, he was so powerful that even when the spear in his hand broke, he still used the half spear to kill the enemy."

Li Xuan recommended these two powerful generals to Li Longji.

"It's these two who need it. Let them know about the military affairs. With Qilang's remaining power, Hexi and Longyou will be safe."

Li Longji clapped his hands and praised.

These were all brave generals whom he personally awarded medals of heroism, and he believed that these people would be extremely loyal.

One person, one position. Li Longji then asked if there were anyone else who could be promoted.

Li Zhushi was appointed as the military commander of Hexi, and Li Guangchen was appointed as the ambassador of Chishui Army.

Che Shensai was appointed as the ambassador of Lintao Army.

An Zhongzhang was appointed ambassador of Jishi Army.

Xin Yunjing was appointed Military Commander of Longyou.

Li Feiyuanli was appointed as the military envoy of Wuning...

They were all smooth and logical promotions.

The Grand Army Envoy was appointed as the Military Envoy of Chengdu, and the Central Army Envoy became the Grand Army Envoy.

Li Guangchen and Che Shensai were both promoted, and Zhang Xing was appointed as the deputy envoy of Lintao Army and concurrently the Modao general, with one left and one right Modao general under him.

The other several vacant military envoy positions were promoted by those who had made military contributions.

Li Xuan also invited Che Shensai to be the chess envoy in Guanxi.

The post of punitive envoy is no longer appointed.

Li Xuan and Li Longji talked in front of the fire for more than an hour. In the afternoon, Li Xuan returned to the Duke of Song's Mansion in Mount Li.

Li Longji also gave Li Xuan a mansion under Huaqing Palace, which was the Tianshui Palace.

Li Xuan also had a large mansion near the Lishan orchard, but it was some distance away from the Huaqing Palace, making it inconvenient for attending court.

After returning to the Duke of Song's Mansion, Li Xuan was very calm and he did not tell Li Shizhi.

After chatting for a while, he returned to the room prepared for him by Li Shizhi to rest.

Li Shizhi thought that Li Xuan was too tired after three months of inspection.

It’s really tiring.

But Li Xuan goes to bed early because he wants to get his energy and spirit to the peak.

There was no conversation that night, only the wind blowing and the snow falling could be heard.

The next day, the sky was still dark, but snowflakes fell all night, making the entire inner wall of Huaqing Palace covered in silver.

The civil and military officials came out of their residences at the foot of the mountain and drove to Huaqing Palace.

Everyone was shivering in the car.

Li Xuan and Li Qian were in the same car.

"Huaqing Palace is definitely not as comfortable as Chang'an!"

Li Qian rubbed his hands and sighed to Li Xuan.

“It’s a bit troublesome.”

Li Xuan smiled and replied. The emperor was comfortable. There was hot spring water surrounding the Feishuang Palace. When it snowed, the hot air would rise and hold the snowflakes from falling, just like a layer of white frost floating on the roof of the palace.

With a beauty like Yang Yuhuan by your side, you can imagine how comfortable the winter must be!
In the inner palace, there is a bathing area specially prepared for ministers, but they have to get permission from Li Longji.

"This robe is still a little thin..."

Li Qian could feel that this winter was unusually cold.

It hasn't been this cold in ten years.

"When the cotton from Longyou is shipped back, I will make winter clothes for my father and brother."

Li Xuan touched Li Qian's court dress.

Thinking that the cotton in Longyou had already been harvested, Professor Gongshu Qingzi's soldiers had already mastered the art of fluffing cotton.

Li Xuan had already notified that if the cotton harvest from the local military farms was good, a batch of it would be transported to Chang'an via Hexi.

"Is cotton so magical?" Li Qian was quite curious.

"Yes, kapok is nothing compared to cotton. Even fur is not as comfortable as cotton in keeping out the cold."

Li Xuan replied to Li Qian.

"I'll wait and see." The winter in Chang'an is still long, and Li Qian is looking forward to it. He added, "The court meeting will end soon so that we can gather in front of the fire."

"Today's court meeting will surely be long."

Li Xuan said to Li Qian, hinting at something.

In Huaqing Palace, Li Longji hated to attend court meetings and usually completed them as quickly as possible.

It was also convenient for the ministers as they did not need to perform court ceremonies in Huaqing Palace.

Li Qian still didn't understand that Li Xuan was going to achieve something today that the Chinese people had dreamed of since ancient times.

After arriving at the foot of the mountain of Huaqing Palace, the civil and military officials got off the cars and walked up the mountain.

The snow on the mountain road had already been cleared away by the palace servants.

At daybreak, the ministers climbed the stairs.

Some ministers did not know that Li Xuan had returned from Hedong, and were very surprised to see Li Xuan in a purple robe.

On the way to the court, Li Xuan did not talk to anyone, contrary to his usual behavior.

Just together with Li Qian, Li Jiqing and Li Lang, they silently reached the halfway point of the mountain.

Li Xuan's third brother Li Qi was still in Chang'an. He had to assist Jingzhao Yin in handling Chang'an affairs and did not have to attend the morning court during this period.

There are two places for court sessions in Huaqing Palace.

On the left and right sides of Jinyang Gate are the Left Chaotang and the Right Chaotang.

There is a Hongwenguan on each side of the left and right court hall.

The venue for today's court meeting is the Right Court Hall.

Civil and military officials waited in the snow for the chief ceremonial officer to announce the entry into court.

"Dang Dang Dang..."

The bell rang, and accompanied by the chanting of the official in charge of ceremonies, the civil and military officials entered the right court.

At this time, it was just daybreak.

The ministers found their seats and waited for Li Longji to arrive.

Those idle officials wanted to go home quickly after the morning court session, as it would be warmer in their houses.

Even officials who still had to go to various government offices to work were thinking about their own offices, where the fire was burning brightly.

The right court was empty and very cold.

The courtiers had no shoes and their feet were numb from the cold.

"This Hedong Xingtianshui King has restrained himself..."

"King Tianshui just doesn't have much evidence. He won't arrest people for no reason."

"The 'Shui Tiao Ge Tou' in the Mid-Autumn Night Banquet was so amazing that no one has imitated it in the past three months. I hope Tianshui Wang can write similar lyrics again."

"Yes... He is as talented as Wang Wei and Li Bai. Moreover, the King of Tianshui is a general like Han Xin and Bai Qi, and he is as brave as Xiang Yu and Ran Min."

"King Tianshui should know about the fact that Ye Wuyixian has no one left. What would he think of it?"

"What can we do? The matter is already settled!"

"I wonder when the Prince of Tianshui will be appointed Prime Minister?"

"I should go back to Chang'an next year!"

Before the saint's arrival, the ministers discussed the matter privately.

From the Mid-Autumn Festival banquet to the appointment of prime minister, people were always whispering and discussing.

Li Linfu looked solemn.

He knew that Li Xuan's appointment as prime minister was a fait accompli, but he wanted to know what the new law was?
Even though he flattered Li Longji to please him, Li Longji did not tell Li Linfu the content of the new law.

This is the failure of the Chief Prime Minister!
Although Ye Wu Yi Xian made Li Longji trust him more, some officials who were preparing to approach Li Linfu to deal with Li Xuan stopped.

They knew that Li Linfu was still playing power games, and they wanted to see what the new law was before considering whether to unite with Li Linfu.

"Your Majesty has arrived..."

The master of ceremonies shouted.

Li Longji, wearing a towering crown, came to the dragon couch and took a seat, escorted by palace maids holding fans.

Gao Lishi and other eunuchs followed.

"Greetings to Your Majesty!"

All the civil and military officials stood up and bowed.

"Everyone is safe!"

Li Longji raised his hand.

If the ministers looked carefully, they would find that Li Longji's condition today was unusual.

He is full of energy and his eyes are bright.

During this cold winter, Li Longji usually demanded a quick victory when he went to court.

What's more, it's snowing outside now.

"Thank you, Your Majesty!"

Civil and military officials took their seats.

The left and right prime ministers continued to report the daily affairs of the Secretariat to Li Longji.

The civil and military officials had nothing to report, and in less than half an hour, it seemed that they could leave the court and return home.

Just when the ministers thought Gao Lishi was going to shout "dismiss the court", Li Longji stood up and said to the ministers: "Right Prime Minister, Left Prime Minister, and Minister Huangfu, from today on, the Prince of Tianshui Shuofang, Hedong Jiedu, Zhidu, Yingtian, Fangchao, and Yafan Ambassador are dismissed. The Prince of Tianshui Hexi and Longyou Yingtian, Zhidu, Fangchao, Yafan, Yantie, and Taoji Ambassador are dismissed. The Prince of Tianshui Sanshoujiangcheng Silk and Horse Trade Ambassador and Chishui Army Ambassador are dismissed. The Prince of Tianshui is dismissed as the Imperial Censor, the Right Yulin General, the Judge of Wuwei County, and the Governor of Xiping County."

"From now on, the Prince of Tianshui will be in charge of the post of Jiedushi of Hexi and Longyou, but will not be involved in military power."

When these words were spoken, all the ministers were shocked.

Li Xuan was dismissed from so many positions at once, as if he was dealing with Li Xuan himself.

But the ministers all knew that this was definitely not a punishment, but an award of a greater mission.

Li Xuan is going to be appointed prime minister!
They knew this day would come sooner or later, but they didn't expect it to come so soon.

And he was appointed prime minister!

Civil and military officials witness an era!
Li Xuan, who was both civil and military, became the brightest star in the court.

Li Linfu clenched his fists. He was mentally prepared, but his heart was still pounding.

Little thief!
They finally entered the Zhongshu Gate together.

"An Sishun, the deputy envoy of the Hexi Jiedushi, is loyal and brave, and has made many meritorious services. He is specially promoted to the ambassador of Shuofang Jiedushi, Yingtian, Zhidu, and Yafan. He is also the ambassador of the silk and horse trade in Jiangcheng for the third time, and is granted the title of governor of Lingwu. The other noble positions remain unchanged..."

"… Promote Gao Xiuyan to the positions of Jiedushi of Hedong, Yingtian, Zhidushi, and Yafan Ambassador, and grant him the title of Governor of Yanmen…"

"Promote Wang Nan to be the deputy ambassador of Longyou Jiedushi, in charge of Jiedushi affairs, and concurrently the ambassador of Yingtian, Zhidu, and Yafan, and the governor of Xiping County..."

"Promote Geshu Han to be the deputy ambassador of the Hexi Jiedushi, in charge of Jiedushi affairs, and concurrently the ambassador of Yingtian, Zhidu, and Yafan, and the governor of Wuwei County..."

While the court officials were having different thoughts, Li Longji promoted four border generals in one go.

Li Xuan currently remotely governs two towns, which is a great honor.

The commanders of the four towns were all under Li Xuan's command, and they also represented Li Xuan's prestige.

The civil and military ministers were unable to even refute.

Because apart from An Sishun, Wang Nande, Geshu Han and Gao Xiuyan, there is no more suitable position.

They followed Li Xuan and made great contributions to the court, so they cannot be deprived of their rights.

Besides, the appointment of Jiedushi was decided by the emperor.

The prime minister had no right to refute unless the emperor asked him to recommend a virtuous person.

"Clap clap clap..."

After Li Longji completed the appointment, the court was silent for a moment, and Li Xuan was the first to clap his hands with his tablet.

Li Xuan's brother and ministers who were loyal to Li Xuan, such as Yang Shenjin and Yang Yan, also high-fived.

Huangfu Weiming, the Minister of War, agreed because Gao Xiuyan, An Sishun and Wang Nandi, all of whom were promoted by the sage, were all his former subordinates.

Pei Kuan immediately agreed.

As Li Linfu clapped his hands, the whole audience burst into applause.

If you object, you have to explain your reasons clearly. Making unreasonable arguments without any reason will anger Li Longji.

When the sounds of the banhu fell, all the civil and military officials held their breath.

The cold palace seemed to no longer be cold. Their hearts were either depressed, or passionate, or confused...

The sage removed Li Xuan from his posts as frontier commander and also removed him from his post as imperial censor, obviously intending to give Li Xuan a new position.

The Grand Censor was a third-rank official.

Now that both the left and right prime ministers are in place, the emperor obviously has no intention of dismissing them, otherwise he would have dismissed them before Li Xuan was removed from office.

Among the six ministers, only the Minister of Personnel was absent.

However, the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the Shangshu Zuo Pushe can still be appointed.

Because Li Xuan must be given a higher title.

"Li Xuan, the Prince of Tianshui. He joined the army in the second year of Tianbao and saved the lives of border residents. He successively experienced the battle of Feng'an City, the battle of Helan Mountain, the capture of the Turkic Khan and Basimi Khan, the capture of the pirate Wu Lingguang, the battle of Jishi Army, the battle of Lishui River, the battle of Kubahai, the battle of Qinghai Thousand Miles Raid, the battle of Baitinghai, the battle of Jiuqu, the battle of Dafeichuan, the capture of the Tibetan Zamp, etc. He fought more than a hundred battles, all of which were won with little loss and without wasting national strength. He was an ancient famous general, incomparable..."

"The Prince of Tianshui has solved a series of major cases in Chang'an, offered financial advice, punished local lawless tyrants, toured the local area, and promoted benevolence and filial piety. This is the talent of a prime minister!"

"Although the Prince of Tianshui is only twenty years old, he is extremely talented and has mastered many poems. He will be a leader in the literary world in the future!"

"Self-denial and dedication to public service, strong and resolute, like a beautiful woman with fragrant grass, the fragrance will last forever..."

"Appoint Li Xuan as the Minister of Personnel, co-minister of the Secretariat, acting Minister of the Left, editor of the national history, Grand Scholar of the Jixian Hall, and confer the title of Purple Gold Guanglu Dafu, and Ambassador of the Changping New Law. The rest of his honors, titles, and dispatched positions remain unchanged."

After a lengthy speech, Li Longji officially announced that Li Xuan would be appointed prime minister.

Become the prime minister who is crowned as a king.

Everyone is like that.

There had been speculation that Li Xuan would be appointed as the Minister of Personnel, but some people did not believe it.

After all, no one has taken up the position of Minister of Personnel since Li Linfu stepped down.

The Ministry of Personnel is the head of the Six Ministries and concurrently holds the duties of a commissioner, which gives it real power and allows it to examine officials throughout the country.

The prime minister holds concurrent positions and has greater power and responsibilities.

The status of Shangshu Zuo Pushe was also strengthened.

He was given the title of Tongzhongshumenxia Pingzhangshi, and nominally was the "third prime minister". However, the ministers knew how powerful Li Xuan was, and this third prime minister could compete with the chief prime minister.

Just like when Li Linfu was appointed Prime Minister as the Minister of Rites, he was able to go against Zhang Jiuling.

Now history’s boomerang has struck back at us.

Moreover, this time Li Xuan studied both national history and served as the Grand Secretary of the Jixian Hall.

These were all official positions of Li Linfu, but now they have been inherited by Li Xuan.

In particular, the chief prime minister is often able to concurrently study national history.

The Grand Secretary of the Jixian Hall was in charge of compiling books, and now he is also in charge of compiling history.

This influence will grow day by day.

The Zijin Guanglu Dafu was a third-rank civil official who held no power but was just a symbol of his status.

and many more?

It seems that the saint has appointed Li Xuan as the ambassador of Changping New Law. What kind of official position is this?
They know about Changping Granary, Changping Department Store, and Changping Salt Warehouse.

Is the new law centered around these?
All the ministers turned their eyes to Li Xuan.

It is extremely precious! There is no one like it in ancient and modern times!
The Duke of Song has a good son!
From then on, the court and the public could no longer call Li Xuan the King of Tianshui, but instead respectfully addressed him as "Li Xiang" or "Xiang Gong".

Because the prime minister is more noble than the prince, there is no doubt about it.

The ministers who were unhappy with Li Xuan and opposed Li Xuan felt extremely uncomfortable.

As long as he is strong enough, there will be great scholars debating with him, and Li Xuan is bound to have no shortage of followers.

They were also excited about Li Xuan's appointment as prime minister.

Especially Li Xuan's brother, he almost jumped up in the court.

Li Qian no longer felt the coldness he had felt in the carriage; his blood was boiling.

Li Linfu watched Li Xuan stand up from his seat and prepare to go before the court to receive the order, and he breathed a sigh of relief.

All the positions held by Li Xuan were once his official posts. In the game of gambling, he suffered a complete defeat.

He successively resigned from thirty official positions.

Whenever he tried to regain the position of Minister of Personnel, Li Xuan would always interfere, and not only did he fail to gain his position, but he lost even more.

Now that Li Xuan has been appointed as the Minister of Personnel, it is a humiliation to Li Linfu.

Li Xuan, who was coming with great momentum, was bound to compete with him.

Li Linfu suffered a series of blows and had no confidence in defeating Li Xuan. He only hoped that Li Xuan's new methods would attract civil and military officials to him.

"I thank your Majesty. I am now the Minister of Personnel and co-director of the Secretariat. I feel that the responsibility is heavy and I will spare no effort to live up to your Majesty and the people. I will do my best and will not stop until my death..."

Li Xuan bowed to Li Longji in the center of the hall.

This bow meant that Li Xuan officially became the prime minister!

Li Xuan's current official position is:
The Minister of Personnel, co-minister of the Secretariat, acting Shangshu Zuo Pushe, editor of national history, academician of Jixian Hall, ambassador of Hexi and Longyou, ambassador of Changping Xinfa, ambassador of the world's migration, ambassador of marriage coordination, ambassador of Ciyutang, ambassador of Longyou herdsmen, ambassador of Hexi Changxing Transportation, ambassador of Yellow River Transportation, granted Zijin Guanglu Dafu, Shangzhuguo, and titled Prince of Tianshui County, with a real fief of 1,500 households.

In the future, Li Longji will definitely appoint Li Xuan to other official positions.

"Li Xiangping, you will enter the lower hall of the Zhongshumen and participate in military affairs. I hope you can contribute more good strategies to the country."

Li Longji stroked his beard and said to the ministers, "Prime Minister Li will officially take office today. The Prime Minister banquet will be held after the snow stops and the sky clears."

According to custom, after being appointed as prime minister, a banquet would be held to celebrate and announce it to the world.

After all, appointing a prime minister is a national event. In the past, appointing a prime minister required the monarch to pay homage to the prime minister.

Now the emperor used a banquet to express his respect for the prime minister.

"Congratulations, Li Xiang!"

No matter what the ministers thought in their hearts, they had to stand up and congratulate under the leadership of Li Linfu and Pei Kuan in response to the sage's extremely wise choice.

Li Xuan bowed to Li Longji again, and then bowed to all the civil and military officials in front, behind, and around him.

Finally, Li Xuan returned to his seat and all the officials took their seats again.

"Your Majesty, I have a question. I wonder what the official position of the Ambassador of Changping New Law is?"

The Minister of Rites, Da Xixun, stepped out and asked Li Longji.

The court meeting is not over yet!
"Prime Minister Li, take this opportunity to tell the ministers what the new Changping Law is."

Li Longji instructed Li Xuan.

It is obvious that the Changping New Law Ambassador is the official in charge of the Changping New Law.

"According to the order!"

Li Xuan stepped forward again and explained the new Changping system to all civil and military officials.

Civil and military officials listened with serious expressions.

Li Xuan first explained to the civil and military officials the harm done to the common people by the annexation of the land by the powerful families. Countless people sold their children and became serfs because they did not have emergency food. Finally, Li Xiang said to the civil and military officials: "Based on the grain supply, we will convert the cost and give it to the people at a 10% interest rate to help those poor farmers and prevent them from becoming serfs."

"The grain of the counties kept in the granaries will only breed rats and mice. It is better to lend the grain to the people. In this way, the country can get rich with the interest, and the people can get through the difficulties."

Li Xuan uses mice and rats as metaphors.

The rat refers to ordinary rat, and the big rat is the greedy official who levies heavy taxes.

Although the granary is an important place, there are definitely many officials who commit embezzlement.

When Li Xuan's "New Changping Law" was announced, the court, which had been silent for a long time, was filled with surprised cries.

This news came like a bolt from the blue.

The powerful families had marriage relations with many officials. Once the new Changping Law was introduced, it blocked the way for the powerful families to annex land.

Even though ministers keep shouting slogans of "restraining mergers" all day long, who will actually implement it?
Will Li Xuan become enemies of the whole world just because he is appointed as prime minister?

Many ministers looked extremely ugly.

The New Changping Law is a good strategy for the country and the people, but it is hard to like it.

"The new Changping Law can help the people get money and grain from the government when they are in a difficult period, and avoid being exploited by the powerful. It will be convenient for the people and beneficial for the country. You should cooperate with Prime Minister Li to promote it to all corners of the country and solve the urgent problems of the world..."

Li Longji cooperated with Li Xuan and regarded the new Changping Law as a long-term plan for the country.

He must work hard to promote it. If it develops according to the ideal situation, within a few years, the national strength of Tianbao will far surpass that of Kaiyuan.

"Clap clap clap..."

As soon as Li Longji finished speaking, Li Xuan immediately clapped his hands with his tablet to express his appreciation for the wisdom of the sage's words.

This time, there were fewer people applauding with Li Xuan. This matter was of great importance, and only his brothers would unconditionally support Li Xuan.

There are also Li Xuan's minions such as Yang Shenjin and Yang Yan, as well as Li Xuan's die-hard supporters.

"Clap clap clap..."

The great poet Wang Wei high-fived, he had decided to support Li Xuan.

Because the new Changping method is absolutely a top-notch strategy according to idealism.

The poet was not short of ideals, and soon, poets such as Wei Shu and Cui Hao nodded in support.

Li Xian held a hu tablet in his hand. He carefully considered the pros and cons of the new Changping law, and finally struck the hu tablet to welcome Li Xuan.

Pei Kuan frowned, thinking about the feasibility of this new method.

He always felt that there would be problems with this new Changping law.

Because law enforcers are human beings, and the powerful families have such great influence in the local area, coupled with the officials who are blinded by greed.

It is very likely to ruin a good thing.

Pei Kuan and Li Xuan had no grudge against each other, but he was a seasoned political strategist and simply believed that this new Changping system was difficult to implement and that its implementation would do more harm than good.

Not even a quarter of the people clapped their hands with their tablets, which made Li Longji's face freeze.

It would be very difficult for the emperor to deal with a decree that had no support from the majority of prime ministers and was opposed by most officials.

(End of this chapter)