activa-t Chapter 236
Chapter 236
Chapter 236
As the most cherished son of Li Er, Li Tai undoubtedly nurtured ambitions for the throne. In recent years, Li Er’s excessive favoritism towards him reached astounding levels. Among the numerous imperial princes, Li Tai was the sole one who, even upon reaching adulthood, was permitted to abstain from official duties.
A couple of years ago, Li Er cited Li Tai’s exceptional education and literary talents as justifications when he issued a special decree to establish a literary academy within Li Tai’s residence as the Prince of Wei. This academy enabled Li Tai to assemble talented individuals independently, and it was this decree that ignited ambitious aspirations within Li Tai.
In reality, the establishment of the literary academy served as a facade. It was a means for Li Er to promise him the authority to recruit aides. While other princes were dispatched to their fiefs with court-appointed officials, and even if they managed to hire advisors with a substantial sum, these advisors lacked official positions, often raising doubts about their qualifications. Conversely, serving as an aide in Li Tai’s residence carried a different weight, as those who joined were legitimate scholars from the literary academy, enjoying a distinct status. Thanks to this decree, Li Tai swiftly gathered many talented individuals.
In the following years, Li Tai further built upon this foundation. He exploited the frequent territorial changes within the Tang Empire as a pretext to request permission from Li Er to compile the “Comprehensive Gazetteer.” Li Er readily consented, providing financial resources and personnel support, strengthening his favor towards Li Tai without bounds. As time passed, even officers holding ranks of the third grade or higher would dismount and bow when encountering Li Tai. This left the Minister of Rites, Wang Gui, thoroughly bewildered. Throughout history, which prince in any dynasty could boast such incredible favor?
Additionally, during the establishment of the Great Tang, how many individuals now holding positions in the court were not originally founding heroes who stood by Li Er through thick and thin? Witness uncles and elder brothers dismount and bow when encountering Li Tai made Wang Gui ponder whether Li Tai truly deserved this treatment. However, Li Er continued to berate Wang Gui, even suggesting that if anything were to happen to Li Chengqian in the future, Wang Gui couldn’t be certain that Li Tai wouldn’t ascend to the throne.
Li Tai was a man of action, wasting no time. The following morning, I arrived early. Just after Su Li’s family finished breakfast, a servant arrived with news that Prince Wei Li Tai had come to visit. Both Su Li and Changle were somewhat surprised. Su Li wasn’t one for socializing, and since Changle’s marriage, her relationship with her siblings gradually became common.
In truth, among the various imperial princes, Su Li had a relatively positive impression of Li Tai. Since he had tried to visit as a relative, there was no reason to turn him away. Soon, Su Li arrived in the main hall. When he saw the exceedingly lavish gifts presented by a palace maid, he couldn’t help but furrow his brow.
“What’s the meaning of this, Prince Wei?” Su Li asked calmly. Li Tai smiled and explained, “Changle’s birthday is approaching, and these items are gifts to celebrate her birthday.”
Su Li sensed that something was amiss. While there had been occasional exchanges between the Princess’s Residence and Prince Wei’s Residence, they were usually modest gifts for various occasions. The items Li Tai sent this time were conspicuously valuable, far beyond what was necessary for a simple birthday celebration.
As expected, Li Tai continued, “You’ve been deeply involved in battles these past years, and your temperament is reserved. You’re not one for social engagements. However, now that I have more leisure as a prince and you’ve relinquished your positions, you know I’ve always been inclined to literature. Lately, I’ve delved into poetry and would appreciate your guidance. Given our relationship, we should grow closer.”
Now, Su Li understood Li Tai’s intentions. It was no secret that Li Tai aspired to become the heir, a fact that might be hidden from others but was clear to Su Li.
“I’ve put down my pen for quite some time. I’m afraid I might disappoint Prince Wei,” Su Li responded calmly. Feeling Su Li’s indifference, Li Tai wasn’t surprised. He had heard how Li Er had tirelessly visited the Princess’s Residence to persuade Su Li to join the battles. Even Li Er had nearly exhausted all his efforts to achieve that goal, so Li Tai couldn’t expect to be more persuasive.