Chapter Ten: Resolute Determination

Observing the maturity in Pei Min that far exceeded his years, Guo Yuanzhen understood why Xue Ne held him in such high regard. Knowing when to advance and when to retreat was truly extraordinary.

Without mentioning the matters of Lu Zangyou or Chang Yuankai, Pei Min shifted the topic with a hint of deference: “Younger generation often hears my grandfather speak of Minister Guo. He says you are a man of exceptional strategy, reminiscent of Sima Rangju of the Spring and Autumn period—strict in law and military discipline, skilled in pacifying and governing the people. Especially your feats in quelling Qinling, governing Liangzhou for five years, and managing the Western Regions for four years. These deeds forced the Tang’s formidable foe, Tubo, into internal strife, severing their strength. The unruly people of Liangzhou were brought to order, with fields teeming with cattle and sheep, and roads so safe that no one dared steal. You even won the hearts of the Western Regions’ peoples. I have also heard that when Minister Guo was reassigned from the Western Regions, the tribal chiefs of Anxi wept bitterly, reluctant to see you go. The common folk of Liangzhou, hearing of your passage, gathered spontaneously at Yumen Pass, 800 li away, bearing wine and provisions to welcome you. Having spent a decade outside, you have truly won the hearts of Liangzhou and the Western Regions—a model for us all. Recently, I have taken a keen interest in Liangzhou and the Western Regions. I have read Master Xuanzang’s “Great Tang Records on the Western Regions” more than five times, along with various unofficial histories and anecdotes about Liang, Long, and the Western Regions. Yet I know these are mere superficial scraps compared to your vast wisdom. Should you find leisure, I humbly hope you might share your insights.” With these words, he performed a proper bow. Pei Min had now thoroughly integrated into this era’s society and was accustomed to the mutual courtesies exchanged among friends and elders. This habit, rather than being a burden, was warmly humanizing. A simple bow between people could deepen friendship and convey mutual respect.

Guo Yuanzhen was somewhat flattered by Pei Min’s praise, for the three greatest accomplishments of his life had been spoken of with such admiration. He was naturally proud, but when he heard Pei Min’s final request, he understood his true intent. Casting a glance at Pei Min, he muttered, “You might as well abandon the surname Pei and take Xue instead—just like your grandfather.”

This remark stemmed from the previous night, when he had been drinking with Xue Ne. They had initially discussed Pei Min, but soon Xue Ne began probing deeply into the affairs of Longyou, Liangzhou, and the Western Regions, not neglecting the three great threats to the Tang’s western borders: Tubo, the Turks, and Tujue. Guo Yuanzhen immediately saw through Xue Ne’s purpose. Though envious, he honestly shared all he knew to give Xue Ne a clearer understanding of the western situation, so that when war broke out, he would not be caught unprepared.

Having satisfied the elder Xue Ne’s curiosity, the younger one unexpectedly appeared as well.

Pei Min was initially puzzled but then recalled the previous night’s long talk between Xue Ne and Guo Yuanzhen. Realization dawned, and he laughed, “I suppose my grandfather and I think alike.”

Guo Yuanzhen replied, “Very well. When you have time, come to my residence. I will tell you about the western situation.”

Pei Min was delighted and bowed respectfully. “Thank you, Lord Guo, for your guidance.” To know oneself and the enemy ensures victory in every battle. He also adjusted the way he addressed Guo Yuanzhen accordingly.

Since it was office hours, Guo Yuanzhen did not engage Pei Min in further detail but sent him to greet several senior officials in the Ministry of War, urging him to work diligently. Pei Min readily agreed. Even if one came merely to enhance their reputation, it was better to be coated in platinum than brass.

Pei Min subsequently paid formal visits to the Deputy Minister and the Assistant Minister.

Notably, Dou Chen, the Assistant Minister of War, was a turncoat whom Guo Yuanzhen despised for betraying the military’s trust. After learning the facts early that morning, Guo Yuanzhen immediately sent Dou Chen home. Within fifteen minutes, the memorial impeaching Dou Chen had arrived at the Secretariat. After Emperor Li Longji’s review, Dou Chen was officially dismissed from his post.

Pei Min, having greeted his colleagues, did not hurry back but observed the elders in the Treasury Department as they handled affairs, learning procedures and preparing for the next day.

Once Guo Yuanzhen finished his military duties, he proceeded to Wude Hall to pay respects to Li Longji.

Wude Hall, located to the right of the Taiji Palace and adjacent to the Eastern Palace, was where Li Longji now held court. Although he had succeeded as emperor and was supposed to govern from the Taiji Palace, Li Dan refused to relinquish power. Thus, the Taiji Palace remained under Li Dan’s control, and Li Longji had to conduct affairs at Wude Hall.

Upon Guo Yuanzhen’s arrival, Li Longji was in discussion with Cui Riyong about the details of a military coup. Guo Yuanzhen’s plan was a desperate gamble, a perilous bid for victory. Without Li Longji’s boldness, no one else would dare accept such a stratagem. Hearing Guo Yuanzhen’s request to see him, Li Longji did not hesitate to summon him into the main hall.

“Congratulations, Your Majesty! My heartfelt felicitations!” Guo Yuanzhen exclaimed joyfully as he knelt, informing Li Longji that Pei Min had agreed to join his faction.

Li Longji, however, did not respond with the expected joy but instead cast a peculiar glance at Cui Riyong.

Cui Riyong anxiously inquired, “Minister Guo did not reveal our plan to Pei Min, did he?”

Guo Yuanzhen replied, “This matter is of utmost importance; I do not dare act unilaterally. Everything awaits Your Majesty’s arrangement.”

“That’s good, that’s good!” Cui Riyong sighed in relief, wiping the sweat from his temple. “Minister Guo is unaware that I personally saw Pei Min board Princess Taiping’s imperial carriage today. Their relationship is clearly unusual. We should select someone else. Using Pei Min is too risky and unreliable.”

Guo Yuanzhen spoke gravely, “Your Majesty, I have long been aware of this and harbored reservations. But after speaking with him today, I found Pei Min to be quick-witted, ambitious, and decisive. He understands the Tang’s situation as if it were his own palm, even surpassing me in some respects. He openly criticized Princess Taiping as narrow-minded and unfit for great responsibilities, while praising Your Majesty’s valor and wise leadership. I believe Pei Min sincerely wishes to help Your Majesty achieve great accomplishments.”

Li Longji looked at Cui Riyong and Guo Yuanzhen, uncertain how to judge. Princess Taiping’s pressure was becoming unbearable; one wrong thought could mean life or death. Even though he was resolute and determined to fight to the end, a moment of hesitation caught him. After a pause, he asked, “What did Lord Xue say?”

Guo Yuanzhen answered, “Lord Xue holds Pei Min’s abilities in high esteem, describing his character simply as ‘a fine young man.’ Your Majesty, using Pei Min indeed carries risk. But is there anyone without risk? Princess Taiping’s infiltration of the martial world far exceeds ours. Who can guarantee that any chosen ally is truly loyal to Your Majesty and not a spy planted by Princess Taiping? Both choices bear risk. I believe employing Pei Min carries less risk because of his great ambitions. If Your Majesty promises him glory, how could he dare not serve you faithfully?”

Li Longji’s coup was a desperate last stand against Princess Taiping’s relentless pressure. Hearing Guo Yuanzhen’s counsel, his wavering gaze steadied. “If Pei Min is willing to serve me, I shall not doubt his loyalty. We shall proceed according to Lord Guo’s plan. Use Pei Min as our blade to secure the Northern Army first!”

Just as Li Longji resolved, within Princess Taiping’s residence, plans were already underway in response to his frequent movements.