eurekapd Chapter 222 Choosing the Crown Prince...
Chapter 222 Choosing the Crown Prince...
Just then, Pei Ancheng stepped forward, bowed respectfully to Pei Chuan, and then politely asked:
"Father, is there something important you need to tell us that you have summoned us here so suddenly tonight?"
As he spoke, he glanced casually at Pei Yunjing, who was standing not far away.
Looking at Pei Yunjing, he was also a handsome and talented man.
He wore a dark long robe with delicate gold patterns embroidered on the collar and cuffs, which looked understated yet luxurious.
A flawless white jade belt cinched tightly around his lean and powerful waist, perfectly outlining his robust physique.
His every move exudes an awe-inspiring air of nobility and a kingly demeanor that commands respect.
Although he is still young, not yet fourteen years old, his height is almost as tall as Pei Ancheng's.
Pei Chuan nodded slightly, his gaze as deep as the sea, and his voice echoed in the hall as he said in a deep voice:
“An Cheng, He Chuan, Yun Jing, Yun Qi, Chang An… I have summoned you here tonight because there is indeed something to discuss.”
The princes held their breath, not daring to utter a sound, and the atmosphere in the Zichen Palace immediately became tense.
Pei Chuan continued, "The position of Crown Prince has been vacant for a long time, and I have already made up my mind. But before that, I would like to hear your ideas for the future of the country."
Upon hearing this, Pei Ancheng felt a pang of anxiety; he knew this moment had finally arrived.
He composed himself and respectfully replied, "Father, I believe that the nation should prioritize the people's livelihood, develop agriculture, reduce taxes, and strengthen border defenses to ensure national security."
Before Pei Chuan could give a signal, Pei Yunjing immediately spoke:
"Father, I believe that, in addition to what my third brother said, we should also pay attention to talent cultivation, select virtuous and capable individuals, and implement the imperial examination system to attract talents from all over the country."
Upon hearing this, a hint of approval flashed in Pei Chuan's eyes. He knew that his two sons each had their own strengths: Pei Ancheng was steady and mature, while Pei Yunjing was intelligent and decisive.
Just then, the Seventh Prince, Pei Yunqi, slightly bowed, his posture quite different from the other princes.
Unlike other princes who wore gorgeous clothes and dazzling jewelry to show off their noble status, he dressed in a low-key and simple style, which was refreshing.
He spoke slowly:
"Your subject dares to suggest that the most urgent task at present is to popularize education."
The most urgent task is to build more schools so that more children can have the opportunity to receive an education. Only in this way can we cultivate a large number of talented people and accumulate strong strength for the long-term development of our dynasty.
Furthermore, I also believe that we should strengthen the legal system, carefully improve the legal system, and ensure that the law is fair, impartial, and unbiased.
Only by enabling ordinary people to live and thrive in an atmosphere of fairness and justice can the stability and order of the nation be maintained, ensuring long-term peace and security.
After speaking, Pei Yunqi quietly retreated back into the ranks of the princes, without saying another word.
It should be noted that Pei Yunqi and Pei Yunjing are the same age, but because he was the offspring of Pei Chuan after he was drunk and had sex with a palace maid, there has never been a saying in Guangling that a mother's status depends on her son.
On the contrary, in this case, the son's status is elevated by his mother's.
Because of his background, Pei Yunqi's status among the princes was truly the most humble and lowly.
At this moment, Pei Chang'an took a step forward at a leisurely pace.
He was the youngest of all the princes, and he was almost ten years old.
Pei Chang'an pondered for a moment before slowly and deliberately speaking:
"In my humble opinion, foreign relations are indeed one of the key links on the road to national prosperity."
Therefore, I humbly suggest that we should actively engage in diplomatic activities and strive to establish close and friendly relations with neighboring countries.
In this way, we can continuously enhance our country's overall strength through frequent and extensive trade exchanges;
Furthermore, it allows us to maintain a high level of vigilance at all times, further strengthening border defenses and ensuring the safety of our Guangling Kingdom, preventing any potential threats from taking advantage of the situation.
After saying these words, Pei Chang'an's emotions calmed down slightly...
The Fifth Prince, Pei Hechuan, dressed in glittering gold today, suppressed his impatience and said, "The well-being of the people is the foundation of a nation..."
His perfunctory attitude was practically written all over his face...
After a long while, Pei Chuan spoke again, solemnly saying, "The views expressed by all the princes are actually quite unique."
However, governing a country is by no means something that can be accomplished overnight or in a short period of time.
Therefore, I earnestly hope that you will work together, help each other, and join hands to strive tirelessly for the prosperity and strength of the Guangling Kingdom.
Pei Chuan's deep and sharp gaze fell on Pei Ancheng and Pei Yunjing once again.
He gazed at them silently, as if he were carefully considering and weighing something of utmost importance deep within his heart.
Time passed slowly, and the entire hall was silent. Everyone's attention was focused on Pei Chuan, Pei Ancheng, and Pei Yunjing.
Finally, after a long silence, Pei Chuan slowly opened his mouth and said, word by word:
"As for the important matter of choosing a crown prince... after careful consideration, I have decided to put it on hold for a while!"
All the princes: "Yes, Father..."
Then, Pei Chuan waved his hand expressionlessly, signaling everyone to leave.
Outside the Zichen Palace, those people turned and left one after another, their footsteps fading into the distance; Pei Yunjing walked unhurriedly, falling at the very back of the group.
Just then, out of the corner of his eye, he saw Pei Hechuan waving slightly at him from not far ahead, standing still as if patiently waiting for something.
Pei Yunjing felt a little puzzled, but he quickened his pace and stepped forward, clasping his hands in a respectful greeting:
"Fifth Imperial Brother, may I ask what business you have with me?"
Pei Hechuan treated him well, and Pei Yunjing knew he was different from Pei Ancheng...
Pei Hechuan casually fiddled with an exquisite red jade hairpin in his hand, a faint smile playing on his lips, and asked softly:
"I haven't seen Niannian for a long time. I wonder where she is now?"
Upon hearing the name "Niannian," Pei Yunjing was taken aback.
It should be noted that regarding Niannian's whereabouts, the Southern Imperial Uncle only claimed to the outside world that she was traveling and having fun in other countries, and did not tell anyone the truth.
In reality, only Pei Yunjing knew that Nian Nian was currently in the modern world more than a thousand years in the future.
However, when faced with Pei Hechuan's questioning, he naturally could not tell the truth.
Pei Yunjing pursed his lips tightly, hesitated for a moment, and then slowly spoke: