Chapter 37 Reply 37: Jingde bluntly promotes big plans and often shows loyalty in a tactful way

"Last night, the four of us did that guy Shi Wanbao." Yuchi Jingde came to Tiance Mansion early in the morning, saw no one was around, and whispered to Li Shimin what he did last night. Li Shimin sighed, "Why didn't you tell me beforehand? Jingde, it's not a trivial matter that a high official was killed in the capital. Sigh, it's really reckless of you to do this." "It's okay. We arranged the room before we left. If Wu Zuo goes to do an autopsy, he will definitely say that the woman was passionate about adultery, so she killed her husband and left with money."

"Hmph, don't be self-satisfied! If I come to see this matter, there will be two great flaws. You think that Shi Wanbao is known as the 'Hero of Kyoto'. Did he kill him? Also, since it is said that this woman is passionate about adultery, she will definitely go the same way with the maid beside her, so why kill the maid?" Yuchi Jingde was speechless and couldn't answer, and after a long time he muttered: "Anyway—anyway—anyway, things have been done. To remove Shi Wanbao is to remove a huge evil." Li Shimin waved his hand and said: "Forget it, don't mention this matter again in the future. Jingde, the situation in front of us is so difficult, it's not an exaggeration to say that the situation is jittery, you don't want to cause me any more trouble."

Yuchi Jingde smacked his mouth, wanting to argue a few more words, but he didn't dare.He followed Li Shimin's words and said: "Yes, the former Tiance Mansion was so glorious, I don't want it to be in such a lonely place now. King Qin, the scenery in the mansion is still the same now, but the people are scattered, only Wuji and us are left Several people." Li Shimin looked outside the door without saying a word. After Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui were kicked out of the mansion, they talked to Yuchi Jingde, Changsun Wuji and Hou Junji one by one.The two said that now they could not freely serve the king of Qin, how to persuade the king of Qin to make a big plan and start early was up to the three of them to lobby.When the two talked about the emotional part, they couldn't help crying, and the other three also cried along with them.When Yuchi Jingde came today, he also wanted to persuade Li Shimin.At this time, only the sound of footsteps outside the door was heard, and Changsun Wuji and Hou Junji came in.Hou Junji entered the door and said, "King Qin, I never imagined that Shi Wanbao could be killed by someone, and now there are rumors about it."

Li Shimin nodded and motioned them to sit down. After sitting down, Changsun Wuji said worriedly: "It is said that Shi Wanbao's concubine was a flirtatious concubine, so she killed people to make money and escaped. But everyone knows that Shi Wanbao's relationship with the crown prince and King Qi is different, and it is now a troubled time. Sensitive, don't involve us in this anymore." Li Shimin glanced at Yuchi Jingde, with reproach in his eyes, and then sighed softly: "There is nothing that cannot be contacted in troubled times. Hey, let it go, it is not too much to add this one."

Yuchi Jingde said: "King Qin, don't be so depressed. We have been following you for many days, we have encountered many difficult things, and we have never seen you frowning. The subordinates know that the reason why you are hesitant is because of brotherhood. Respect De is a vulgar person who doesn't understand the principles of sages and sages. However, in battle, if you only care about the small things, you will lose the general situation. I also ask the king of Qin to make a big plan early." "Make a big plan early? I know, you must have listened to Xuanling and Ruhui's words and wanted to persuade me. But, there are my brothers over there, and let me plot against them like an enemy. Can you do it on your body?"

Among the three people in the seat, Changsun Wuji is Li Shimin's brother-in-law, so it is difficult to answer this question; As a general, he will carry out Li Shimin's words to the letter without compromise, never daring to have the slightest disobedience.As soon as Li Shimin said this, there was a sudden silence. Today's Yuchi Jingde is a bit special, I saw him ponder for a moment, and said proudly: "King Qin, Jingde has never dared to criticize you, but today he will go against it once. Yes, the crown prince and King Qi are your brothers , You have such a kind heart, but they may not. Look at their methods of dealing with me, they are extremely cruel. They can deal with me like this, who can guarantee that they will not use such methods to deal with you, King Qin? Isn’t it their fault to preserve reality and emptiness? Let me tell you, it is not the King of Qin’s doing such things to preserve the small affection of benevolence and forget the great plan of the country.”

After hearing these words, Changsun Wuji and Hou Junji were secretly happy, and felt that Yuchi's respect for virtue had not been in vain for Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui's professors.As a warrior, Yuchi Jingde usually has such profound insight? Li Shimin turned his face and smiled and said: "Haha, I didn't expect Jingde to be able to say such elegant words. Well, where did you learn it? It's rare that you can recite it word for word." "The principles of sages and sages are in your heart, how can you memorize them by rote? King Qin, you are unwise to hesitate in dealing with things now; you are not brave if you don't make decisions in the face of difficulties. What good will it do for your family and country if you do this? What will it do for yourself? What good? This is not your usual disposition! King Qin, you must make a plan to kill the prince and King Qi as soon as possible."

Li Shimin's attitude has changed this time, instead of just scolding him blindly, he said: "After all, isn't it still the same way?" "There is only this way, there is no other way! If King Qin doesn't do this, Heizi will have to think about his own life." "Well, what do you think?" "I have suffered so much, and I dare not do it again. If the King of Qin doesn't make a plan soon, Heizi will flee for his life, and he can't sit still." Yuchi Jingde glanced at Changsun Wuji, and continued, " If Heizi flees today, Wuji wants to go with him."

Li Shimin looked at his eldest grandson Wuji and said, "Wuji, is this the truth?" Changsun Wuji nodded slowly. "Then what about sister Min? Can't you take it away?" "That's right. She might be able to save her life by following me. She can't just throw her life here for nothing." Li Shimin looked at Hou Junji and said, "What about you? What do you say?" Hou Junji opened his mouth, hesitated to speak, and finally said resolutely: "I dare not hide it, if Jingde leaves, I also want to join Yaojin in Kangzhou." Li Shimin stood up, looked at them deeply, nodded and said: "Okay, you all go, this is the cleanest." Then he said to Zhangsun Wuji: "Wuji, you just go, but I will leave." Miss Min won't go with you." He turned around and walked slowly towards the back hall.

The three of them sat there in a daze for a moment, and suddenly Yuchi Jingde slapped his forehead and said, "Hey, why am I so courageous today? I actually said so much to the King of Qin." Hou Junji said: "Brother Jingde is full of courage, are you afraid now?" "Of course I'm afraid. If it was normal, I wouldn't dare to speak to the King of Qin in such a tone if I were killed. If it wasn't for Mr. Du Er's plan, I wouldn't dare to dare to give me a little more courage." Changsun Wuji smiled and said: "Okay, it should be like this, and there will be more plays like this in the future."

Li Xiaogong, Li Jing, Li Shi and others finally invaded Danyang and destroyed Fugong Zhe.After that, they wiped out several rebel forces in the south of the Yangtze River, connecting the land of Jiangnan and Shandong, and gradually stabilized the territory under their jurisdiction.Seeing that things in the south of the Yangtze River were peaceful, Li Yuan thought of the headaches that the Eastern Turks often violated the border, so he ordered Li Jing and Li Shi to return to Beijing. Li Yuan doesn't like Li Shimin now, and he doesn't want to send Li Shimin as the commander when the Eastern Turks invade, so he wants to send a few capable generals to the northern border to take precautions as soon as possible.Because there are precedents before, like Mayi and Yanmen with Li Daliang as the commander, Jieli Khan can no longer invade from now on.He called Li Jing and Li Shi back to Beijing just to arrange this matter.The two of them went to the Tai Chi Hall to meet Li Yuan. In front of all the ministers, Li Yuan praised the two of them vigorously, saying: "This time Li Jing followed Xiao Gong to sweep Jiangnan down, it is really the fate of Xiao Xian and Fu Gong Zhe. Han Xin, Bai Qi, Wei Qing, and Huo Qubing are hardly worthy of the credit of Li Jing. The world is comparable to Li Jing's credit, and he is loyal, filial to his family, and honest and prudent. He can be a model for ministers." Li Jing was awarded Lingzhou. The governor of the capital, Li Shi, was the general manager of the Shuofang Road.Let one of them be stationed in Lingzhou and one in Yinzhou, which can form a flanking attack on the capital of Liang Shidu, and prevent the Eastern Turks from coming to invade the country. Li Jing was praised by Li Yuan on the Golden Palace, and he had mixed feelings in his heart.He remembered the scene when he was tied up to see Li Yuan when he was still in this temple.At that time, Li Yuan and Pei Ji were full of anger and wanted to cut off the head on the neck. Thanks to the persuasion of Li Shimin, Yu Zhining, Yan Shigu and others, they have achieved today's glory.This made him even more grateful for Li Shimin's kindness. After he came down to court, he picked some gifts and went to Tiance Mansion to meet Li Shimin. Li Shimin saw that Li Jing sent a very generous gift, held his hand and blamed him: "Brother Yao, we have a peaceful relationship, how come you have learned this common etiquette now?" Li Jing said with a smile: "It's nothing, these things are all common things in Jiangnan, they are not worth a lot of money despite the size of the pile. I just want to impress the concubine and the others, it's really not a valuable gift." Li Shimin asked Li Jing to sit down, and asked him to come up and serve tea.The two have not seen each other for several years since they separated in the second year of Wude.They have made great achievements in both the north and the south of the river, and they couldn't help but feel sympathy for each other during the conversation.Li Shimin praised: "Father, at today's court meeting, praised senior brother Yao for surpassing the achievements of Han, Bai, Wei, and Huo in ancient times. It is true. I think my Li family is blessed, and senior brother Yao was born to bless the Tang Dynasty. Now Dong Turkic chaos in the northern border is the greatest concern of my father, brother Yao will be able to succeed in no time." Li Jing clasped his hands and said: "King Qin said such words, which made Li Jing extremely terrified. If it weren't for King Qin's vision and clumsiness that day, how could Li Jing be where he is today? I'm afraid it would have been a dream of hell. In fact, His Highness is the number one person in the world. Ah. Li Jing's small skill is incomparable to the light of the sun and the moon when compared with King Qin's." Li Shimin waved his hands and said: "Forget it, if we continue talking like this, it will become mutual flattery. I am not only a minister of the court, but also the second son of my father and emperor. I do these things according to my duty, let alone Family matters. Now that the world is gradually leveling off, I mostly work in the capital. From now on, it will be up to you and elder brother to consolidate the frontier and subdue the barbarians." Having said this, Li Shimin's face showed a look of loneliness, and then he stretched out a sigh of relief. Take a breath. Li Jing is really a very smart person, although he has been in the south of the Yangtze River these years, he knows the dynamics of the court like the palm of his hand.Things like the fight between their brothers can also be carefully noticed.Seeing Li Shimin's expression at this moment, he knew that he had touched something unspeakable in his heart, so he comforted him and said, "Although the world is gradually leveling off, the barbarians in all directions have not yet settled down, and the domestic population and wealth have not yet returned to the level of Sui Renshou. Your Highness , there are still many places where you need to display your talents in the future." Li Shimin smiled slightly and said, "Well, that's right. The emperor and the crown prince have worked so hard, and I will do my best." His eyes drifted, and he continued, "Brother Yao, you have a long-term vision and considerate plans. I have a It's a troublesome thing, and I want to ask you for advice." Li Jing got up and said, "Why did King Qin say such a thing? Li Jing really can't afford it." A light flashed in his heart, and he vaguely felt that what Li Shimin was about to say must be a huge and difficult matter. Sure enough, Li Shimin said slowly: "Brother Yao, don't be too humble, please sit down. Actually, you must have heard about this matter before. Sigh, I have worked hard for my father all these years, and I have made meager contributions. Can you imagine that it would cause the suspicion of the crown prince and Shiro? You see, all the people in my house are dismissed by them now; I wanted to leave Beijing to avoid it, but my father refused to allow it. Brother Yao, I am in such an embarrassing situation , how should we deal with it?" Li Jing's heart was shocked, and he felt that it was difficult to answer for a while, so he smiled and pondered his words in secret. Li Jing had the idea of ​​being loyal to the country since he was a child, and this idea became clearer as he got older.When he was the magistrate of Mayi County, he felt that Li Yuan had different ambitions. Although he had no personal grievances with Li Yuan, and Emperor Sui Yang was so cruel and unscrupulous, he resolutely went to Beijing to make the first complaint.Later when Li Yuancheng arrested him, his expression was calm, and he said: "Do you want to kill a strong man out of personal grievances?" Later, when he went to war, he either followed Li Shimin or Li Xiaogong, and he devoted all his energy to thinking about things. In fact, he is conceited of his civil and military talents, thinking that as long as he is loyal to the country and does not depend on any individual, he can make great achievements and fulfill his duty as a courtier.With the tyranny of Emperor Sui Yang and Li Yuan's suspicion, he never wavered in his ambition and always put loyalty to the country first. As for the fight between Li Jiancheng and Li Shimin, Li Jing thought it was a matter between their brothers and had nothing to do with him.From an emotional point of view, Li Shimin tried his best to save himself at the beginning, and then recommended himself as the deputy commander of the army, which can be described as a great kindness.In addition, Li Shimin is good at fighting and accepting characters, which he admires from the bottom of his heart.Ordinarily, since Li Shimin asked this question today, he should answer it immediately without hesitation to express his loyalty. However, after thinking for a long time, he slowly said something like this: "Li Jing always thought that as long as he is loyal to the country If you have the determination, you must use your talents for the country, and you must be recognized by the king if you have ability. As for the dispute between His Highness and the Crown Prince and the King of Qi, it may be the world's groundless rumors, and the second may be the reason that the Crown Prince is not broad-minded. Your Highness's heart I have always been able to accommodate all kinds of people, and I believe that it will move them over time. All in all, this is His Highness's family matter, Li Jing is an outsider, and he has just returned to Beijing, so he doesn't know the details, so he dare not make rash comments." "Brother Yao can say this, must he be sympathetic to Shimin's current situation?" Li Shimin asked again. Li Jing straightened his body and said solemnly: "Your Highness, please understand Li Jing's intentions at this time. I really dare not say more about this matter. If outsiders get involved in any family affairs, the situation will become more chaotic. Please rest assured, Your Highness. From now on, Li Jing still said the same thing, and dare not say anything more." Li Shimin was a little disappointed when Li Jing's words reached this level. Li Shimin has been thinking silently these days, thinking that if he and Dalang form a situation of resistance, the attitudes of the people in the court towards him can be roughly divided into three categories: one is resolutely opposed to him, such as Pei Ji He Donggong and Qi Wangfu belonged; the second category is to support oneself, such as Xiao Yu, Chen Shuda, Qu Tutong, Chai Shao, Wen Daya, Yu Zhining, Yan Shigu, etc. The third category is those who do not help each other, such as Feng Deyi, Dai Zhou and others.If you measure the popularity of both sides in this way, there are still more people who help you. This time Li Jing and Li Shi were entrusted with important tasks, and they held heavy troops. Li Shimin thought that if they could clearly support him, he could add two more strong supporters.Li Shimin originally thought that these two people had been with him for a long time and had a deep relationship, so it was a sure thing that they fell in love with him.Unexpectedly, he hadn't seen Li Shi yet, so Li Jing refused to answer here, letting himself hit a soft nail first. Li Shimin didn't show a trace of annoyance, he laughed and said: "Brother Yao is really righteous, and Shimin admires it very much. By the way, when you go to Lingzhou to garrison this time, you must understand the surrounding mountains and rivers. Du Ruhui has a ready-made map of mountains and rivers. He Now Guozixue is a teaching assistant, you can ask him to get it, it will be of little help to you." Li Jing bowed his hands in thanks, and the two talked for a while about Liang Shidu and East Turkic affairs.At this time, it was already noon, Li Shimin left Li Jing to eat in the mansion, Li Jingfang said goodbye and left. The next day, Li Shi also came to visit, and Li Shimin tried words again during the conversation, but Li Shi, like Li Jing, evaded and did not answer directly.Although Li Shimin was disappointed, he still talked to him happily, and asked him to go to Du Ruhui's to get the landscape map, and then leave a meal to send away. There are few cars and horses in front of Tiance Mansion's gate, so if someone comes to the gate, it will be very conspicuous.Counting, there are very few people who can come to the door frequently, and Gao Shilian can be regarded as a person who often visits the door.Because he is the eldest grandson Jiamin's uncle, and his official position is small, so he can enter and leave Tiance Mansion calmly, without being conspicuous.Li Shimin used to talk the most with Fang Xuanling and Du Ruhui, but now they dare not come to the door, so if Li Shimin had anything on his mind, he could only tell Gao Shilian and Changsun Wuji in detail.That night, when Gao Shilian visited the mansion again, Li Shimin told them about Li Jing and Li Shi's visit. Gao Shilian thought for a while, and then said: "The two of them are now favored by the emperor, and they have powerful soldiers in their hands. If they can be recruited as subordinates, it will be a great help. From this point of view, they have made up their minds, and they just want to work harder. It's no use either. It's a pity, a pity." Li Shimin said: "I am kind to them. It was a matter of course, but it will come to naught. Don't they see that Da Lang is powerful now, so their minds are active, and they want to watch from the sidelines?" "No. Erlang, you should see the dispositions of these two people: Li Jing is conceited in civil and military talents, and does not care about one person but the country; Li Shiying is brave and good at fighting, and pursues the name of loyalty and only serves the king. They have such dispositions, and they will definitely not fall into the trap. In the midst of disputes among the princes. They do this because they want to stay out of the matter instead of watching from the sidelines." Li Shimin nodded and said: "That's the truth. I also thought afterwards, I owe them a favor, but they don't follow. If Da Lang goes to recruit them, he will definitely be rejected. In fact, this conversation also has something to gain, just understand their real attitude." Gao Shilian nodded in agreement, then suddenly remembered something, and said: "Among the outer towns, Li Yuan is far away in Youzhou, after all, he is out of reach. But Li Yi in Jingzhou holds a heavy army there, and it is not far from the capital. Erlang, you have to Defend." Li Shimin sighed: "That's right, I thought that if I could talk about Li Jing and Li Shiwei's help, I could let them restrain Li Yi. Although there is Zhang Wansui in Longxi, but he has a little more horses, he can't form a manpower. It's hard to be Li Yi's blow. That's right, the so-called precautions, we still have to think of another way to prevent it." Li Shimin used words to test this time, and understood Li Jing and Li Shiliang's attitude of not helping each other.Although the doubts about his falling to the prince's side were released, they were grateful to themselves, but now they are staying out of the matter at the critical moment, and they can't help but feel sad.He didn't say anything, but he already had a conclusion in his heart: In this life, these two people can be used by himself, but they will never be his confidantes. Time soon entered May, the weather is getting warmer day by day, and the heat is coming.In the past few days, in order to argue about one matter between the two courts, everyone blushed and their necks were thick. It was because the Taishi ordered Fu Yi to go to Shu to ask for the destruction of Buddha. Since Buddhism was introduced into China, there are many people who worship Buddha.Like the people in the temple now, more than half of them believe in Buddhism.As soon as Fu Yi came out, Li Yuan ordered all the officials to discuss it, and the hall was in chaos.Except for Zhang Daoyuan, the eunuch who agreed with Fu Yi's words, most of the people in the palace opposed it, among which Xiao Yu was the most fierce.Xiao Yu is usually obsessed with Buddhism, and has achieved success in intensive research. She often visits famous temples in China, and sometimes gives lectures.Because of his official reputation, he has become a leader in the Buddhist world.When Fu Yi read out the proposal, he was so angry that his eyes crooked and his mouth slanted. As soon as Li Yuan's words fell to the ground, he played to Li Yuan: "Buddha is a saint, but Fu Yi is not. Your Majesty, anyone who is not a saint is a traitor. Please punish him." Fu Yi's crime." Not to be outdone, Fu Yi went back in front of the hall: "There is no better human being than a king. The Buddha betrayed his father with his son, and resisted the emperor with his husband. Your Majesty, Xiao Yu was not born in Kongsang, It is a serious crime to follow the teaching of fatherless, please punish him." The focus of the debate between the two was the most prominent contradiction at that time when Buddhism and Confucianism had not yet merged.Confucianism requires starting from the individual himself, to achieve self-cultivation, family harmony, governance of the country, and peace of the world. This is a positive thought of joining the world.Buddhism, on the other hand, believes that life is suffering, and the world is a sea of ​​suffering. It requires people to become monks to break away from reality in order to achieve the purpose of Buddha. This is a negative thought of transcending the world.At that time, Confucianism was in an orthodox position, and Fu Yi proposed to curb the spread of Buddhism and respect Confucianism in order to strengthen the imperial power.However, Buddhism has been widely popularized and is the belief in many people's hearts. Fu Yi brought out the big hat of Buddhism disrespecting his father, which made Xiao Yu unable to answer in front of the emperor.I saw him make a strange gesture, he closed his eyes slightly, clasped his hands together, and murmured: "Fu Yi is the setting of hell." It was like chanting a spell. Li Yuan agreed with Fu Yi's opinion. At that time, the world was rebuilding after the war and urgently needed to restore vitality. The need for Ding Nan was the most urgent. If they were released to monks and nuns, they could be matched into more than 100,000 households.In this way, they not only satisfied their own needs for food and silk, but also contributed corresponding rents and taxes to the country, which is a good thing that kills two birds with one stone.Therefore, Li Yuan issued an edict ordering all the monks, nuns, Taoist priests, and female crowns in the world to move to the big temples and temples for those who practice diligently, and to provide them with food and clothing without any shortage.For the rest, they were ordered to stop and returned to their hometowns.Li Yuan also stipulated the number of temples and temples. Only three temples and two temples will be left in the capital, and only one temple will be left in each state, and the rest will be cancelled. Li Yuan's move had its positive significance, but because Buddhism was deeply rooted in the hearts of the people, as soon as his edict came out, people all over the world were furious, thinking that the imperial court was going to destroy Buddha again.After that, the situation became unstable, and many monks and people besieged the local government. This was not Li Yuan's original intention. After going to court, Li Shimin had something on his mind, so he deliberately delayed his departure for a while.After all the officials dispersed, he took square steps and walked slowly along the corridor to the edge of the sea pool.After that, continue to move forward, bypassing the Linhu Temple, and you will arrive in front of the tall Xuanwumen tower. Li Shimin was not in a hurry to go out, but turned a corner to the stairs, and then climbed up the stairs.When the guards guarding the gate saw that King Qin was about to climb the tower suddenly, one of them rushed up to lead the way in a panic, and the other rushed to Linfeng Pavilion on the west side, so he went to inform Chang He who was there. The Xuanwu Gate is second only to the Chengtian Gate in terms of scale in the palace city. There are three doorways with a width of three feet, and the width of the partition walls between the doorways is one foot or two feet.There are pavilions on the gate for the emperor to visit.The entire gate tower is more than twenty feet high, and it looks lofty and majestic.The walls are all made of big blue bricks, and the joints in the middle are glued with glutinous rice juice and white ash, which is a solid door. When Li Shimin climbed to the top of the tower, he felt a gust of wind blowing, which immediately wiped away the fine sweat that broke out when he climbed the stage just now.Xuanwu Gate is indeed a tall building in the capital. Looking south, one can see Zhongnan Mountain in the distance clearly outlined under a sunny day;Li Shimin gazed into the distance, and also had the gentle breeze blowing on his face, he couldn't help but feel relaxed and happy. Hearing a sound of footsteps at this time, he saw Chang He rushing up, his face flushed and sweating, obviously surprised by Li Shimin's sudden arrival, so he came to see him in a panic.Seeing that Chang He arrived, Li Shimin was in a very good mood at this time, and first said: "Chang He, what crime should I have for trespassing on your forbidden area?" Chang He cupped his hands and said: "How dare a villain? The King of Qin is the prime minister, and he is also the general of Tiance. It is a matter of routine to come here for inspection. The arrival of the King of Qin is our supreme honor." Li Shimin smiled slightly and said: "I didn't expect you to learn to speak such decent words soon after you were imprisoned in the palace, haha. Don't feel like you are facing a big enemy. I have no other intention to come here. I just think the scenery here is very good. Come here to enjoy it once. After that, he moved to the north wall between the stacks, pointed to the distance and said, "That bright white belt is the Wei River. From the Wei River to the palace city, there is no barrier in between. Chang He, Xuanwu Gate The terrain is really important, you should bear in mind the responsibility on your shoulders." "Thank you King Qin for your admonition, why don't you dare to slack off a bit." "Well, that's good." After saying this, Li Shimin turned his gaze to Chang He's face.I saw Chang He looked submissive, his eyes full of admiration.He suddenly said softly: "Time flies so fast. Remembering how you were in the Valley of the Rats at that time, you were only sixteen years old, right? In just a few years, you have become a general guarding the palace." "Yes, others say that the villain's chances are good, and the villain thinks the same way. Thinking about the partners who joined the army together, now the villain has the highest official position. Tracing back to the source, it is nothing more than being appreciated by the king of Qin and the prince. Straight up from the bush." Li Shimin's eyes flickered, he pondered for a while, and then said: "Your words are not entirely correct. You have today's status, mainly because of your bravery and skill in fighting. It is a bit far-fetched to say that I know you, but it is mainly because the prince has the eyes to recognize talents. today." Chang He said calmly: "His Royal Highness's words really made Chang He ashamed. The reason why Chang He joined the army was because he heard that King Qin was a young hero at that time, and he admired him. Afterwards, the crown prince was kind to me, but to find out the source, it was King Qin who was here. Queshugu encouraged my mind, and I became the leader of the army. Changhe, in this life, I really dare not forget the kindness of King Qin." After hearing his words, Li Shimin felt relieved immediately.It seems that although Chang He was promoted by the prince to guard the palace, but after all, he is not a big official, and the prince did not list him as a confidant.The most important thing is that Chang He has a bold and upright temper, and he does not change his original intention, so there is a lot to do in it. Li Shimin changed the subject, and said softly: "Well, I'm really touched that you have such a heart. I said last time that you have the same temper as Cheng Yaojin and others in my mansion. Alas, it's a pity that they all go out to be officials. You have no chance of seeing each other." Chang He was also very regretful, and said guiltily: "In short, Chang He is not blessed." Li Shimin walked towards the stairs, and Chang He hurriedly followed.As Li Shimin walked, he said casually: "After watching the scenery here, I should go. Well, Chang He, we talked a few words. I think it's a good match. If you have nothing to do in the evening, you can go to my house to have an in-depth discussion." How about it?" Chang He didn't hesitate, and replied: "Okay, the villain will definitely go to see you now. It's just that the villain is humble and humble, and I feel a little worried." Li Shimin stopped walking and said, "Huh? I'm not a tiger, am I? Well, let's just say that. After you get off duty, I'll ask Wuji to pick you up." "The villain knows the roads in the mansion, and dare not work for the eldest grandson Langzhong." Li Shimin smiled slightly and said: "Wuji found a good place to drink, and he needs to lead the way. It's settled like this. After you get off duty, Wuji will wait for you at Jiayoumen." Chang He nodded in agreement. At this moment, he noticed something strange in Li Shimin's eyes. In the evening of this day, Chang He really walked to Jiayou Gate as promised.Jiayou Gate is one of the west gates of Taiji Palace. It is located in the north of the west palace wall, connected to Yeting Palace in the west, and is the palace city gate that is closer to Xuanwu Gate.Now the general guarding Jiayou Gate is An Yuanshou, when Chang He walked to the gate, he saw him standing and talking with Changsun Wuji by the gate, apparently waiting for him.Chang He knew the origin of An Yuanshou, since he returned to the Tang Dynasty five years ago, he was granted the title of Youfu Zhen of the Prince of Qin's Mansion. His eldest grandson Wuji and him were also the shogunate of the King of Qin, so of course they knew each other well.At this time, when the two saw that Chang He had arrived, An Yuanshou first greeted Chang He with a full smile, and then turned into the door.Changsun Wuji went out and got on his horse, he also greeted him, and then led the way, leading Chang He to the south of the city. The two of them walked south slowly along Zhuque Avenue, and gradually they came out of Mingde Gate. Changsun Wuji didn't stop, and headed east again, and it was completely dark at this time.Chang He saw that he was going further and further away, so he couldn't help asking in surprise: "Master Changsun, what good places can we go in this wilderness?" Changsun Wuji laughed but didn't answer, he just kept waving his whip and galloped.Although Chang He was full of doubts, he had no choice but to follow closely.After they went on like this for a while, they saw a house in front of them with light shining through it. At this moment, Changsun Wuji said, "Here we are." He also handed over the reins of the horse as instructed.With the weak light, Chang He vaguely felt that this person seemed to be Yuchi Jingde, because no one said anything, it was difficult to ask. Such a situation inevitably revealed some mystery, and Chang He felt anxious, but thinking that King Qin and Changsun Wuji invited him here, they would definitely not have any ill intentions for him, so he followed Changsun Wuji into the courtyard.They opened the door and entered the room, and a person stood up under the shadow of the lamp, and the person said, "It's so good, you really came as promised." Chang He heard the voice and knew that the speaker was Li Shimin. Chang He hastily bowed down and said: "The king of Qin has an order, how dare the villain refuse to obey? It's just that the eldest grandson Langzhong led me to such a secret and remote place, which makes it difficult for the villain to understand for a while." Li Shimin stepped forward to pull Chang He up, and said: "The city is noisy, I let them find this place. Since we want to talk, this is the best place. Come, sit down first." Li Shimin ordered Changsun Wuji to open the two boxes placed in the corner, pointed to the boxes and said: "Chang He, I heard that you have not done anything to plunder these years, and you have a good reputation. If you rely on your official salary, you must not have much savings. Now you You haven't married a wife yet. At this age, you should have a family. You use the money to buy a house first, and then see who has an outstanding lady in the official family in the city, and marry it. Well, if the family is not willing, I will But I can help you go to talk about it, so that you can take advantage of your wish." Chang He looked along his fingers, and saw that the box was full of gold, silver and jade articles. Under the light of the lamp, the yellow and white things in the box were shining brightly.He couldn't help being shocked, thinking that if he relied on his official salary, it would be difficult to accumulate these things in his lifetime.At this time, Chang He became more and more aware that Li Shimin had something to ask for himself, so he got up and said: "If there is any difficulty when the villain hires a wife, I will definitely ask His Highness for help. But with so many gold and silver objects, the villain is really worried. I'm sorry, since ancient times it has been said that no meritorious deeds will not be rewarded, I really can't accept it. I hope His Highness can understand the villain's mind." Li Shimin smiled and said: "You will have made great contributions to me. Compared with your contribution, this is nothing. Chang He, I am looking for you today to discuss a big matter." "The villain respectfully listens to His Highness's orders." "I think you must have heard about the matter with my eldest brother, but you may not know it. I will tell you the details today. After you judge the right and wrong, I hope you can help me." Now that Chang He has arrived, he realizes that he is facing a major decision: should he follow the prince?Or take refuge in King Qin?According to common sense, it is a great kindness for me to be favored by the crown prince, to push myself forward, and to be appointed as the official of the palace guards. I should follow the crown prince, at least not betray him.But tracing back to the source, it was the king of Qin who had taken a fancy to himself among the thousands of troops, so he had a bright future.This made Chang He hesitate for a while, so he cupped his hands and said: "The villain is light-hearted, and he only knows how to serve his duties faithfully. Moreover, the crown prince and the King of Qin both have kindness to the villain. If the villain is allowed to judge the right and wrong, all The one is disloyal, and the two dare not.” Li Shimin said softly: "Look at you, don't be so nervous. I said that I like your temper, but I didn't treat you as an outsider at all today. Just sit down and listen to me, even if you don't say a word, I won't It's your fault." Afterwards, Li Shimin gave a summary of the conflict between himself and Li Jiancheng in the past.Changsun Wuji couldn't help being very surprised, he couldn't figure out why Erlang was like this today?Facing such a small official, it is really unprecedented to narrate in such detail a secret that is not easily revealed to outsiders. Chang He listened quietly, feeling extremely shocked in his heart.Unexpectedly, the prince and the king of Qin have reached such a point of incompatibility.After listening to the words, he was grateful to Li Shimin for his unreserved treatment of him. Finally, Li Shimin said: "I have given up my mind and retired, and I will not compete with my elder brother for a day. But my elder brother and Shiro did not give up. A few days ago, Yu Bao and Pei Xuanyan, who participated in the military affairs of the Eastern Palace Records Office, told me that my elder brother He Shilang wants to call out all the people in my mansion, and then deal with me with all his strength. You see, Cheng Yaojin and others have been far away, and there is not much left in the mansion. The next step, alas, I may be in danger." The first time Changsun Wuji heard about Yu Bao and Pei Xuanyan's message from Li Shimin, he was shocked.I thought that Chang He in front of me had an unclear attitude, if he didn't want to go to Erlang, wouldn't it kill the lives of these two people? Chang He lowered his head and listened to this long narration, meditated silently for a long time, then raised his head and said: "The villain is straightforward, and he usually speaks without restraint. If you let me say that the King of Qin conquered most of the country for the Tang Dynasty, he won Ren Wang, the Crown Prince and the King of Qi did this because of their jealousy, and it really shouldn't be done. There is no need to judge this matter, it is indeed the Crown Prince and the King of Qi who did something wrong." Li Shimin looked directly into Chang He's eyes and saw that the expression inside was open and clear, not like a fake, so he asked: "Chang He, let me make an analogy here first. If I were to fight against the prince, which side would you choose? Remember, You can't ignore it." Chang He thought for a while, and said decisively: "King Qin, I have made up my mind, and I will follow King Qin in this life. Your Highness, as long as Chang He is useful in the future, even if he loses his head, Chang He will never frown. Please Just order." Then he added, "But if I have to face the prince in the future, I dare not touch him." Seeing Chang He being so straightforward, Changsun Wuji couldn't help but be amazed. You agreed to such a big thing without thinking about it. Don't tell me there is something deceitful in it?Li Shimin's face was calm, he had already thought about Chang He's temperament very thoroughly before, and he turned it over and over hundreds of times?Chang He's statement today is really expected.他遂起身走到常何面前，感激道：“常何，你能说出这般话，就是不替我办一丁点事儿，我亦甚慰。要你办的事儿，以后慢慢再说。眼前最关紧的你知道是什么吗？” “小人不知。” 李世民缓缓道：“我今日将你请到此处，就是要避人耳目。你回去后，依旧和平时无什么两样，在太子和齐王面前，也不可露出我与你相交的痕迹。你明白此节吗？” "clear." “好，此地不可久留，你可先行回城。今后我有什么话儿，自有安元寿传给你。这些东西你先带走。” 常何一听此语，脸色忽然变得很难看，说道：“殿下莫非信不过常何吗？要知我愿追随秦王，并非为了名利，无非信义罢了。殿下若坚持让我收下这点东西，即是不信我。”其颜色之间，颇有忿忿之意。 李世民劝慰道：“我若不懂你的这番性情，定不会召你。这两箱东西并非赠你，可你手下之人良莠不齐，也许会有用处。你先拿去，若真的用不上，今后再还我也行呀。” 常何颜色稍和，说道：“殿下既然这样说，小人就先将这些东西带回去。万一真的用不上，将来原物送还，请秦王莫怪。” 李世民点点头，让尉迟敬德牵来一匹马，将两口箱子架在马背上，然后交给常何。 李世民和长孙无忌站在门前，目送常何一人二马慢慢消逝在前方的黑暗之中，两人方才折头回屋。李世民吩咐尉迟敬德道：“时辰不早了，我们今晚不用回城，就在这里将就着过上一夜。你和他们在耳房内安歇，我和无忌住在一房。”尉迟敬德接令后即去安排。 长孙无忌目送尉迟敬德走出门外，轻声叹道：“二郎，常何这人靠得住吗？他今天答应得如此轻易，今后别有什么曲折才好。” 李世民道：“刚才常何说的两个字很好，就是信义。我这些日子一直在琢磨他，大郎对他有恩，我若上来就用名利说动他，以我现在的落魄处境，恐怕难以奏效。常何年轻气盛，对我万分崇敬，只有以信义打动他，方能收到一些效果。他说面对大郎时不会动大郎一指，即是他信义的体现。至于他是否有诈，且待我们观察一段时间后才能断定。无忌，我很有信心，这次应该不会走了眼。” “万一走了眼，岂不连带着将庾抱和裴宣俨两人都卖了出去？” 李世民微微一笑，说道：“我正要从这两人身上，瞧出常何是否可靠。裴宣俨现在已经和四郎闹翻，正准备脱离四郎来投奔我，他已经成为明棋；庾抱却与我没有一丝瓜葛，我这样说实在是冤枉了他。” 长孙无忌喜道：“原来如此。这样一虚一实，若常何向大郎告密，则他自己也会露出馅儿，对我们却没有任何损失。” 李世民神色忽然一暗，叹道：“唉，我这样做，也是为防万一。无忌，你别看常何官小人微，可他处于四两拨千钧的地位，不由得我不慎重。” “常何有什么重要的地方？玄武门守卫之兵不足五百，又受北军节制，实在起不到什么作用。” “玄武门是大郎、四郎的必经之路，又是宫城重门，岂不重要？我这些日子心里有番计较，等明日回城后，你将舅舅叫来，我们要好好议论一番。” 长孙无忌大喜，心想二郎终于开始有所动作了。他跟随李世民多年，知道他喜怒之时不形于颜色。现在他既然说有计策，定是经过深思熟虑而成。此后两人见夜色已深，遂宽衣就寝。临睡之时，长孙无忌忽然又想起一事，起身问道：“二郎，若行大计，东宫和齐府内须有我们的眼线。如今裴宣俨的行迹已露，实在可惜。”李世民已经展被躺下，口中答道：“不妨，那边还有人为我传话。我已给他捎信儿，让他这几日刻意留神大郎对庾抱的态度。若稍有异常，则常何就不可靠，此事就须终止。” 长孙无忌大为心折，说道：“二郎，想不到你在不动声色之间就布下了如此隐秘的棋子，我随侍你身边日久，怎么就没有发现一点痕迹呢？” “咳，也难得你不知道啊。说起来，这还是马三宝之功。唉，想起杨文干的那档子事儿，让我白白地损失了马三宝这位紧要人物，今天看来，实在是得不偿失啊！”李世民直到近日，方悔上次未能全盘谋划形势，使杨文干兵变之事成了虎头蛇尾，白白浪费了心力不说，还遭到了父皇的疑心。 此后数日，李世民、高士廉、长孙无忌三人关在房内，秘密商谈了数回。此时，李渊的禁佛诏令已经发往各地，官吏们先是驱赶僧侣回乡，继而毁掉寺观。当时的僧侣有数十万，百姓信仰者也很多，闻听朝廷禁止，天下人心惶惶，一时怨声载道，更有激烈者与官府发生了冲突。朝廷的注意力都被吸引到这方面来。李建成在那里忙个不已，无暇分心李世民的事儿。李世民以为时机来了，决心依大计行事。此前，他已经有一个大致方案，就向两人侃侃谈了出来。 “上次逼杨文干兵变的事情，虽未达到我们的目的，然也给我提了个醒。杜如晦说得对，不能专事于大郎和四郎本身，还要想法控制父皇手中的兵权。具体做法就是要以小搏大，因为我们的兵力有限。这样既要擒拿大郎和四郎，也要同时控制父皇，两者缺一不可。” 长孙无忌忧虑道：“宫城守卫这么多，东宫和齐府里的宿卫也不少，以我们府内的这点人马，实在难与他们相抗，又如何以小搏大呢？” “所以就要打玄武门的主意。我这几天留意大郎的动静，见他对庾抱并没有什么异常之举。如此看来，常何还是靠得住的。”高士廉已经知道了联络常何的事情，插言道：“大郎也许以为其已控制了朝中大局，像常何这样的小人物他压根就想不起来。嗯，选准一处不起眼的地方猛然发动，肯定会出乎他的意料之外，这就是二郎说的以小搏大！” 李世民道：“只要常何决意跟我，此事就成功了一半。玄武门是大郎和四郎上朝的必经之地，我们先埋伏在门内，就可一鼓擒拿，此后再挥兵深入宫内，以夺父皇之兵权，则大事成矣。” 高士廉沉吟道：“若事情顺利，则此法可行。不过事分两极，反过来说，若不能一击而中，此事也很凶险。我想，有几件事情要早做准备：一者，兵马相比悬殊太大，如今常何归附，另有一个嘉猷门由安元寿领之，宫城之中我们仅有二门，兵马太少；二者，东宫和齐府与玄武门相邻，后宫之中又有和他们通气之人，若东宫和齐府之卫闻讯来援，能否阻之？三者，皇上身边近卫环伺，如何出奇兵突降皇上身边？二郎，说到底，我们手中之兵毕竟有限，须巧做安排。届时若任何一个环节出了问题，就会一败涂地！” “嗯，是这样。我许多日以来，一直都在盘算这个难题。事情是明摆着的，我们事先须隐秘为之，不能大肆从京城以外调来兵马。舅舅说得对，我们要用好这个'巧'字。” 长孙无忌道：“二郎，你不是已经让敬德召来了一些壮士吗？若能召来五千人，就能多些胜算。” 李世民这些日子暗暗安排，让张亮将昔日秦王府中的王保放归京城，由尉迟敬德暗中统领，如今已集合了八百王保。 李世民摇头道：“五千人？太多了。须知人多嘴杂，若弄来五千人入京，定会传出风声。我已经向敬德说过，此次召人京城之人不能超过一千，这样才不至于招摇过分。我们现有人马确实不多，可也没有其他的法子。要知道，我们举事处于劣势，隐秘是最要紧的，若动静过大，就会打草惊蛇。嗯，舅舅说得对，此次举事必须环环相扣，不能出现任何差池。我这几日正为这件事情绞尽脑汁。对了，这房玄龄和杜如晦自从出府后再也没有回来过，莫非他们在外面躲清闲吗？” 长孙无忌轻声道：“二郎莫非忘记了？当初敕书上严令，不许他们再入府来见你，违之则问斩。” “这两人智计百出，我这府中四门皆通，又不是大郎派人来守把，难道真的进不来吗？无忌，你明日去把他们两人叫过来，还有敬德、侯君集和张公谨，明晚都到这里来议事。” 长孙无忌点头答应，即让尉迟敬德去叫房玄龄和杜如晦。孰料房玄龄和杜如晦不敢前来，让尉迟敬德白跑了一趟。