As Wang Sun Zichu, a member of the Zhao State under King Zhao of Qin, he did not leave much of an impression on the king. The information related to Wang Sun was only mentioned by Fan Ju, who had participated in the sensational Zhao State Selection. It was said that Wang Sun possessed extraordinary abilities and had a regal demeanor in his dealings with others.
Sometimes, the impact of words depends on who is speaking and who is listening. At that time, Fan Ju's kind words about Zichu seemed somewhat misplaced when addressed to King Zhao of Qin. Since Zichu was a descendant of the Qin Royal Family, it was expected that he would have a certain level of awareness.
Fan Ju likely meant well, thinking that such praise would adequately express Zichu's potential as a future heir. However, King Zhao of Qin did not share this view; he believed that merely being a potential successor to the Qin State was not enough. As for titles like "Zichu" or "the Extraordinary One," they were merely gimmicks.
What Fan Ju intended to convey inadvertently highlighted Zichu's lack of exceptional qualities, which was precisely what King Zhao of Qin wanted to hear. This so-called exceptional quality was simply the ability to navigate interpersonal relationships effectively. Governing a country is akin to managing a household; one must understand patience and restraint.
At this moment, Luzi's comments did not focus on Zichu's personal actions like Fan Ju's did, making his points noteworthy. However, these discussions could only be considered suggestions from subordinates; ultimately, it required the king's approval. Therefore, after expressing his thoughts clearly, Luzi fell silent again, awaiting the Holy Judgment.
If Luzi had made this suggestion in the past, it might have been accepted immediately by King Zhao of Qin. However, circumstances had changed; now that King Zhao was aging, he had to consider more complex matters.
King Zhao of Qin understood that the internal situation in the Qin State was quite precarious. The absence of chaos at present was largely due to his influence. As long as he was alive and breathing, no one dared to stir up trouble in the Qin State. His concerns began with the Crown Prince Disappearance Case, during which his confidant Luzi had nearly been ambushed.
Looking back now, it became clear how bold those individuals were to act so recklessly in front of the wise King Zhao of Qin, who had no equal among ancient rulers. If something had happened to him, it would have caused an uproar! Considering various factors, King Zhao of Qin began to formulate his own plans: while there was still time, he wanted Luzi to gather enough capital for advancement so that he could help steer the situation in the future.
In this world, a weak monarch would be replaced by external ministers. Just as Tian Qi replaced Lu Qi, even if it still bore the name Qi State, what difference did it make? The Qi State was no longer what Jiang Shang had left for posterity! Such occurrences would never be tolerated in my Qin State! With these considerations in mind, King Zhao of Qin regarded Luzi as a crucial force for safeguarding the Qin State. He had every reason to believe that Luzi would not allow Ying Qin to become Lü Qin!
King Zhao of Qin knew that Luzi was too kind-hearted and easily deceived. As for Fan Ju, the current chancellor of the Qin State, it was hard to say whether he had ulterior motives. It was evident that Fan Ju intended to marry off his sister to Wang Jian for clear reasons.
Fan Ju naturally worried about being replaced by others in a foundationless position within the Qin State. The underlying concern here was about the health condition of the aging Old King of Qin. The reasoning was straightforward: as long as Old King of Qin remained alive, no one could shake the chancellor's position. However, if something were to happen... well, the reality that "new emperor brings new ministers" is no trivial matter.
To keep secrets hidden requires one not to act improperly. Fan Ju's eagerness in this matter led him to believe he had crafted a flawless plan. Yet King Zhao of Qin, seasoned and astute, could easily discern his true intentions. In fact, it wasn't just Fan Ju who was busy with such schemes; civil and military officials within the Qin State were also engaged in similar actions.
King Zhao of Qin looked at Luzi, who was kneeling before him, with a complex expression, suddenly filled with concern for this young man who had joined him since childhood. Could his frail shoulders bear such a heavy burden alone? With that thought, he let out a light sigh.
“Lu Aiqing! Stand up and speak!”
“Yes! Thank you, Your Majesty!” Luzi replied, expressing his gratitude before rising and looking down at the ground without saying more. At this moment, he was unaware of King Zhao of Qin's true intentions and could only wait in silence.
Lu Zigang's suggestion was as follows: as the second son of the current King Qin, Prince An Guo's succession was indisputable. Whether from a traditional or logical standpoint, it was an undeniable fact. Faced with Zichu, who had lost his great support, he believed that he should be the next heir to the Qin State after Prince An Guo. This was also a tradition recognized by the people.
The dilemma for King Zhao of Qin lay precisely here; the indulgent Prince An Guo could not become an excellent successor. Coupled with his physical condition, he would undoubtedly attract the attention of those with ulterior motives. If someone were to do something similar to what Chunshen Jun did with Li Yan and Zhang Yan and send them into the palace, then things would certainly become chaotic afterward.
As for the issue of Wang Sun Zi Chu being the successor, it would not be difficult to resolve completely. Since these people dared to make the Crown Prince of Qin disappear right under the nose of such a powerful King Zhao of Qin while also assassinating important ministers of the Qin State, it would be easy for them to create a case of Zichu's disappearance as well.
It may sound harsh, but this is indeed a fact; one cannot afford to underestimate the worst-case scenario. What good is it to sing praises? When faced with danger, only those truths you find most annoying can save you!
What King Zhao of Qin wanted to hear most now was the truth, but sometimes the truth is hard to hear. Even if Luzi was bold enough, he still hesitated to speak freely out of concern that the king might hold it against him later.
King Zhao of Qin once again scrutinized the loyal Luzi and said with a smile, “Since I have promised you, I will not hold you accountable for your earlier offense. So you can rest assured! Now tell me your plan; let’s see if it aligns with what I have in mind!”
Luzi wanted to kneel again but was stopped by King Zhao of Qin shaking his head. Thus, steeling his heart, he revealed his plan for stabilizing the Qin State. Prince An Guo had a favored consort who could not be made the official wife due to her inability to bear children. To effectively control the situation, the best course of action now was to have Wang Sun Zi Chu recognize this consort as his adoptive mother.
This way, Prince An Guo would have ample excuse to establish an official wife and could take advantage of this opportunity to solidify Zichu's position as heir. Zichu's mother would then be recognized as the future Queen, making her son naturally the Crown Prince.
Upon hearing this, King Zhao of Qin couldn't help but nod. “At first glance, it seems quite complicated!”
Luzi did not dare to smile secretly. From his understanding of the Old King of Qin, saying this meant that the old man had already approved of the plan. He swallowed hard to push down the nervousness that had risen in his throat and replied, "Looking at the world and its multitude of beings at this moment, only Your Majesty can accomplish this plan. I am willing to wait and see, and may Great Qin enjoy lasting peace and prosperity from now on!"
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