Chapter 114: The Struggle for the Minister of Personnel (Part One)

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The Crown Prince was troubled beyond measure; that old vixen was truly formidable! Watching the Crown Prince there, utterly embarrassed, Li Xian couldn’t help but feel a pang of sympathy. Even though it was not the first time he had witnessed the Empress Dowager’s ruthless tactics, Li Xian still had to marvel at her unparalleled ability to manipulate court affairs. From the moment she laid her plans, everyone had been led by the nose, unaware of the waves she stirred beneath the surface. Even with Li Xian’s extraordinary intellect, it was only when his trump card was nearly revealed that he finally awoke to the truth. Alas, awakening was one thing, but disrupting the Empress Dowager’s scheme was far more difficult. The real problem was that Li Xian could not simply stand by and watch the Crown Prince’s reputation be completely tarnished. If that happened, the Empress Dowager’s arrogance would only grow unchecked in future political affairs, and by then, no one would be able to rein her in. In other words, Li Xian had no choice but to protect the Crown Prince at all costs. Yet how to do so was a torment that weighed heavily on him.

Logically, the best candidate to come to the Crown Prince’s aid now was Li Xian’s younger brother, Li Xian. From both a standpoint of reputation and pragmatism, he was the ideal choice. Unfortunately, despite several subtle hints from Li Xian, Li Xian remained nonchalant, pretending not to notice the signals. This infuriated Li Xian to no end, yet he was powerless and could only curse Li Xian silently. Seeing the Crown Prince near collapse, Li Xian could no longer hold back and had to step forward from the ranks.

“Mother, please calm your anger. I have matters of great importance to report—may I humbly seek your attention?” At such a sensitive moment, though Li Xian wished to defend the Crown Prince, he dared not speak recklessly. Instead, he bowed deeply, presenting himself with utmost reverence and caution.

“Hmm?” Just as the Empress Dowager was about to finish crushing the Crown Prince, Li Xian’s sudden interjection shattered the relentless pressure. Though her expression remained calm, a shadow flickered swiftly in her eyes. Yet she could not take it out on Li Xian. She responded with a noncommittal hum, coldly fixing her gaze on him for a long moment. Seeing no sign of retreat in Li Xian, the shadow in her eyes deepened, but then she suddenly smiled and said, “Speak then, Xian’er. I am curious to hear what profound insights you have this time.”

“Thank you, Mother, for your grace. Though I may be foolish, I still uphold decorum and diligence, daring not to slacken even slightly. Now, being wrongly accused, my heart is unsettled—I long to debate Minister Liu to clear the air. If he could be duly punished, it would be my greatest wish. But this cannot be done, for our ancestor once said: ‘Do not punish a man for his words.’ Chancellor Wei often offended the Emperor’s feelings, yet the Emperor never punished him; instead, he valued him highly. This is the virtue of welcoming criticism. I dare not compare myself to the Emperor, but I also dare not defy his decree. I believe Minister Liu’s actions are indeed improper, yet as for me, I ought to correct my faults and strive harder. Thinking this, my resentment has vanished, leaving only cautious vigilance. I hope Mother will understand my sincere intentions.”

Facing the dark eyes of the Empress Dowager, even the calm Li Xian felt a flutter of unease. But having been cornered, he had no room to retreat and thus spoke candidly, even invoking the Emperor Taizong’s words as a banner.

“Mother, what my seventh brother says is true. As grandchildren of Emperor Taizong, we must not violate our forefather’s decrees. I humbly ask for your wise judgment.” Though the Crown Prince was not eloquent, he was quick to respond. Prompted by Li Xian, he regained composure and hastened to support the statement before the Empress Dowager could reply.

“I respectfully report, Your Majesty, that I believe Prince Zhou’s words are noble and just, and he understands the great principles well—a truly commendable speech.”

“Your Majesty, Prince Zhou’s words are indeed right. Not punishing a man for his words is a great virtue. Emperor Taizong’s magnanimity is a shining example we dare not violate.”

“We respectfully concur, Your Majesty!”

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Once Li Hong took the lead, Yan Liben and other officials close to the Crown Prince quickly rose as well. Soon many neutral ministers joined in, voices of counsel rising one after another. The scene grew lively, yet the Empress Dowager remained unmoved, listening silently without any sign of concession.

“Ahem.” Amid the clamor, the white-haired Xu Jingzong leisurely stepped into the hall and coughed twice, as if clearing his throat. Immediately, the ministers—who regarded him with a mix of fear and respect—quieted down. Xu Jingzong paid no mind to their glances and bowed deeply to the Empress Dowager before speaking calmly:

“Your Majesty, I believe Prince Zhou is modest, understands great principles, and comprehends the bigger picture—a true model for us all. I admire him greatly. However, I find the analogy Prince Zhou used somewhat improper. Chancellor Wei’s admonishments always pointed directly to flaws—harsh but loyal words. Yet Minister Liu’s accusations slander innocence, which is not comparable. While Prince Zhou is magnanimous enough to overlook this, the dignity of the court must still be maintained. This is but my humble opinion; I ask Your Majesty’s wise judgment.”

“Indeed, Minister Xu’s words embody seasoned governance. I agree wholeheartedly.” As soon as Xu Jingzong finished, the Empress Dowager’s face broke into a pleased smile in approval. Then her expression suddenly stiffened; her eyes sharpened like blades as she stared coldly at Liu Xiangdao kneeling before her and asked harshly, “Liu Xiangdao, do you know your crime?”

It was over—completely over this time. When Li Xian had spoken earlier, Liu Xiangdao’s previously lifeless spirit had brightened somewhat. But after Xu Jingzong’s words, all hope shattered utterly. Knowing he could not clear this hurdle, Liu Xiangdao dared not argue and could only kowtow repeatedly, begging for mercy:

“Your Majesty, please calm your anger. I admit my guilt. I should not have spoken recklessly after drinking. I know my fault.”

Liu Xiangdao could not be saved! Li Xian made up his mind at once. Though prepared for this outcome mentally, seeing Liu’s aged and weary figure stirred an inexplicable pang of sorrow and pity within him. Glancing at the Crown Prince’s anguished face, seemingly ready to step forward in defense, Li Xian grew anxious. If the Crown Prince acted impulsively now, the Empress Dowager might seize the opportunity to strike fiercely, utterly ruining the Crown Prince’s reputation both outwardly and inwardly. This was a result Li Xian could never tolerate.

“Your Majesty, I still have something to report.” Before the Crown Prince could step forward, Li Xian quickly took the initiative, bowing deeply and speaking loudly to the Empress Dowager.

“Oh? Xian’er still has something to say? Then speak.” Having been repeatedly disrupted by Li Xian, the Empress Dowager’s patience was thinning. Though unwilling, she could not forcibly silence him during court deliberations. She raised a hand coldly and replied with faint but unmistakable chill in her voice.

“Your Majesty, this matter concerns me personally. If Minister Liu is severely punished, how will the world view me? For the sake of my own reputation, I beg Your Majesty to be lenient with him.” Though the Empress Dowager’s gaze unsettled him, Li Xian steadied himself and spoke with neither arrogance nor submission.

“Leniency? And what form of leniency do you propose, Xian’er?” Finding he could not intimidate Li Xian with force, the Empress Dowager relaxed her bearing, smiled faintly, and asked lightly.

“Your Majesty, I believe Minister Liu is advanced in years and should no longer serve the court. Though he erred, he is a veteran of three reigns and has contributed greatly to the state. His merits may not erase his fault, but they must be considered. I propose allowing him to retire honorably. This would demonstrate the court’s magnanimity and preserve my own reputation. I hope Mother will decide wisely.” Having spoken out, Li Xian, who had deeply offended the Empress Dowager regardless, threw caution to the wind and answered without hesitation.

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“Your Majesty, I believe my seventh brother’s words are wise. The court’s dignity is indeed important, but so is forgiveness. I hope Your Majesty will see this clearly.” As soon as Li Xian finished, Li Xian—who had not yet expressed any opinion—stepped forward from the ranks, clearly supporting his brother.

“We humbly ask Your Majesty for wise judgment.”

“We believe Prince Zhou’s words are most excellent.”

“We concur and hope the Empress Dowager will make a just decision!”

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Following Li Xian’s speech, a chorus of ministers quickly rallied behind the two brothers, nearly unanimous in their support. The Empress Dowager’s brow furrowed involuntarily.

“Very well. Since the ministers agree that he should be allowed to retire, I shall not oppose the will of my loyal subjects. Considering his old age and muddled mind, this matter shall end here. Liu Xiangdao, you shall leave the palace at once.” After some contemplation and finding it difficult to suppress the ministers, the Empress Dowager gave a dismissive wave and immediately expelled Liu Xiangdao from the palace.

“I am deeply grateful, Your Majesty. I take my leave.” Liu Xiangdao, having escaped a great peril, felt his heart settle. Without lingering a moment, he bowed repeatedly in thanks and shuffled toward the palace exit. His faltering steps and stooped figure moved the ministers deeply, yet none dared voice any sympathy. They silently watched the veteran of three reigns depart the court. Silence fell over the hall, pierced only by the lingering ache in the air.

“Your Majesty, now that Liu Xiangdao is dismissed, the Ministry of Personnel stands vacant—a vital post that cannot go unfilled even for a day. I humbly propose that Deputy Minister Yang Wu, a seasoned and prudent man who understands the will of Heaven, is the perfect candidate. I request Your Majesty’s wise decision.” Just as the ministers were still recovering from the sorrow of Liu’s dismissal, the palace attendant Liu Yi suddenly stepped forward and reported loudly. His words plunged the hall into a stunned silence before erupting into a chaotic uproar...