The Crown Prince grew anxious. "Doesn't the royal palace have its own funds? If you urgently need money, I can lend you some," he said. "After all, we can't set our sights on the National Treasury; that's simply unacceptable."
He then launched into a lecture about the principles of governance, emphasizing that resources should be derived from the people and used for their benefit, and that the Emperor would never allow it, nor would the Court Officials agree to such nonsense.
Xu Lie listened with one ear and let it out the other, finally waiting for the Old Eunuch to announce the Emperor's arrival.
Only then did the Crown Prince cease his admonishment. All the court officials stood respectfully, waiting for the Emperor to settle into his dragon throne before they collectively bowed and greeted him.
Several sharp-eyed officials quickly noticed that the Emperor appeared unusually vibrant. Although his appearance hadn't changed, his complexion was rosy, and his eyes sparkled with energy, making him seem as if he had suddenly regained ten years of youth.
The Emperor himself was in high spirits; since entering the hall, a smile had not left his face. At his age, burdened by the frailties of old age, experiencing a sudden rejuvenation was truly delightful—everything seemed beautiful, and every meal tasted exquisite.
Even after a late-night session of work, he felt no fatigue and had even eaten two extra bowls of breakfast.
Once one has tasted such a miraculous extension of life, the Emperor would never wish to return to the struggles of old age. His desire for longevity had now become ingrained in his very being.
Without waiting for the eunuchs to inquire whether any Court Officials wished to speak, the Emperor took the initiative to open the court session. "My beloved ministers," he proclaimed, "Heaven has blessed our Da Qian!"
"Yesterday, I encountered a Qilin Child who led me through treacherous seas to find Xian Island and brought back an elixir! Their contributions are invaluable!"
"With so many opportunities for immortality on Xian Island and numerous Barbarians there as well, I have decided to build ships and set sail. This will not only allow us to seek out these opportunities but also protect Da Qian and spread our influence while educating the Barbarians."
The Emperor's words sent shockwaves through the court, igniting fervent discussions.
"No! Your Majesty! The tales of immortals are merely fanciful stories; how can we take them seriously?"
"Your Majesty, setting sail will burden the people and waste resources. I implore you to reconsider!"
In Xu Lie's eyes, the current court resembled a pigpen filled with firecrackers during his childhood—chaotic and noisy.
Some officials were concerned that the Emperor might be deceived by Fang Shi or Alchemy, while others directly opposed Kaihai by invoking the welfare of the common people. The opposition was more vocal than those who remained silent.
Those worried about the Emperor being misled spoke softly but sincerely; however, those who opposed most vehemently were not necessarily concerned about the people's well-being—Kaihai would undoubtedly have a significant impact on their interests.
At the front, the Crown Prince and his companions realized something, and the Crown Prince hurriedly looked at Xu Lie. "Is it you?"
"Silence!" The Emperor rose and roared, prompting the eunuchs from the front of the hall to the back to shout for silence as well. This immediately suppressed the chatter among the officials.
As the Emperor at the pinnacle of the Feudal Dynasty's power, he had firmly controlled the court for decades and did not need to compromise with the officials. While the civil officials held significant influence, they were not a united front, and the Emperor was no fool. Over the years, he had mastered the art of divide and conquer, skillfully balancing power among them.
Moreover, the most crucial force, the Da Qian Army, remained firmly in his hands.
"I have made my decision!" The Emperor's eyes suddenly opened like those of a sick tiger, exerting pressure over everyone present. The officials finally realized that the young Emperor seemed to have returned.
This matter allows for no discussion or evasion!
"Rijian Kaikai Si, Fu Tong Xiaowei, you are fully responsible for this. You will temporarily hold the position of Commander with a rank of Third Grade. The entire court will support you!"
Additionally, "Second Prince," for retrieving the elixir, your contributions cannot go unrewarded! I grant you the Imperial Sword and authority to act first and report later!"
Xu Lie felt a surge of joy within him. Why bother with power struggles? What was there to gain from wasting time in a game of thrones with the Crown Prince's faction? He had directly taken control of the Emperor at the pinnacle of power in the Feudal Dynasty—what could possibly stop him now?
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