The first rebel of the Tang Dynasty

"Is this so?" Li Shimin murmured to himself, seeming to be thinking about the deeper meaning behind this sentence. He frowned slightly, with a trace of confusion and helplessness in his eyes.

Upon seeing this, Li Yun immediately responded: "Yes, Father, that is indeed the case." There was a hint of respect in his words, and he obviously had his own understanding of Li Shimin's doubts and confusion.

Li Shimin sighed softly, seeming to feel a little powerless about this unchangeable fact. He said slowly: "In this case, there is nothing we can do about it." His words revealed a helplessness in accepting the reality, and at the same time revealed a kind of worry about the future.

Li Yun felt relieved when he heard what Li Shimin said. He knew that although Li Shimin felt helpless about this matter, there was no other way. He then said respectfully: "Father, in that case, I will take my leave first."

However, just when Li Yun was about to leave, Li Shimin suddenly said: "Wait." There was a hint of urgency in his voice, obviously thinking of something important.

Li Yun stopped, turned to look at Li Shimin, and asked doubtfully: "What's wrong? Father?"

Li Shimin took a deep breath and seemed to be making up his mind. He said slowly: "As for how they obtained the information about Cheng Zhijie and the two, please tell me!" There was a kind of urgency and desire in his eyes, and he was obviously very concerned about this matter.

When Li Yun heard what Li Shimin said, he was a little surprised. He knew that Li Shimin always attached great importance to obtaining intelligence, but he did not expect that Li Shimin would care so much about this matter. So he respectfully told him everything he knew.

"Father, the thing is like this. The reason why the Shengtang Group was able to obtain the information of Cheng Zhijie and his two men mainly relied on their technology called the positioning system. This system can accurately locate the location of anyone, as long as they have Specific equipment. It was through this system that the Shengtang Group learned the specific location of Cheng Zhijie in Nanzhou."

After listening to Li Yun's narration, Li Shimin's eyes flashed with light. He became very interested in this positioning system. He thought for a moment, and then said slowly: "If we have this thing, then we can determine everyone's location, right? Especially when the military is traveling on a long voyage, we can locate their location and know their location at any time. Also, we can locate the ships traveling far away, as long as they are ships of the Tang Dynasty. In this way, the court can better control these people and ensure the security of the country. "

Li Shimin's words revealed a vision and plan for the future. He knew that if Datang could possess such technology, it would play a huge role in the control and stability of the country.

When Li Yun heard what Li Shimin said, he couldn't help but feel excited. He knew that Li Shimin's idea was very far-sighted. If it could be realized, Datang would be stronger and more stable.

However, Li Yun knew that such technology was not easily available. The reason why Shengtang Group is able to possess such cutting-edge technology is that it must have huge resource support and deep research and development capabilities hidden behind it. Although the Tang Empire was powerful, there was still a big gap between it and the Shengtang Group in terms of technology. If it wanted to acquire such technology, Datang would have to pay immeasurable efforts and costs.

Facing Li Shimin's expectations, Li Yun remained calm and respectful despite feeling pressured. He took a deep breath and responded slowly: "What my father said is absolutely true. Such technology is indeed as precious as a pearl to the Tang Dynasty. However, it is very difficult to obtain this technology from the Shengtang Group. Easy."

After hearing this, Li Shimin frowned slightly and said in a deep voice: "I know this is not easy, but the development of the Tang Dynasty cannot be separated from the progress of science and technology. No matter what the cost, you must try to obtain this technology from the Shengtang Group. You Understand?"

Li Yun's heart trembled. He knew that Li Shimin's decision would not be changed easily. However, he also knew the status of this technology in Shengtang Group. Shengtang Group kept this technology extremely secret, and trying to obtain it would be like pulling a tooth out of a tiger's mouth.

He took a deep breath and tried to keep his tone calm: "Father, I understand what you mean. But please allow me to speak frankly. This technology has a very high status in the Shengtang Group, not to mention that they are not aware of it. The confidentiality is extremely tight, and even if we can manage to gain access to this technology, it will be extremely difficult to fully obtain it and bring it back to Datang."

After hearing this, Li Shimin fell into deep thought. He knew what Li Yun said was true, but he was still unwilling to give up like this. The prosperity and strength of the Tang Dynasty were inseparable from the support of science and technology. If this technology from the Shengtang Group can be obtained, Datang's national power will surely reach a higher level.

However, he also understands that all this comes at a cost. He looked up at Li Yun, with a trace of determination flashing in his eyes: "I know this is not easy, but I believe you have the ability to complete this task. You can consider starting from within the Shengtang Group to find the right time and method."

Li Yun's heart trembled, he knew that Li Shimin was giving him advice. However, he also knew that such an approach was extremely risky. Once discovered, not only would he be in danger, but he might also bring unnecessary trouble to Datang.

He hesitated for a moment, and finally decided to tell the truth frankly: "Father, I understand what you mean. But please allow me to speak frankly again. Shengtang Group has strict internal management, and it is extremely difficult to start from within. Moreover, Now that Li Min knows that you asked Erchen to find Cheng Yaojin, he will definitely strengthen his defense. This will make our actions more difficult."

Li Shimin frowned after hearing this. He knew what Li Yun said was true, but he was still unwilling to give up like this. He pondered for a moment and suddenly said: "Maybe we can buy it with money, what do you think? In this case, Shengtang Group will definitely not give up, because I know that they are in difficulty now, so they will definitely succeed this time , right? In this way, we can gain access to technology while avoiding unnecessary conflicts.”

After hearing this, Li Yun's eyes flashed with surprise. He did not expect that Li Shimin would propose such an idea. But he also understood that this was indeed a plan worth considering. By cooperating with Shengtang Group, we can not only obtain technology, but also take this opportunity to strengthen the connections and exchanges between the two countries.

However, he also knows that such cooperation is not easy to achieve. Shengtang Group protects its technology very strictly, and they may not be willing to share this technology with Datang. Moreover, even if they are willing to cooperate, Datang will need to pay corresponding prices and bear certain risks.

Li Yun took a deep breath, with a solemn look on his face, and said slowly: "My father's idea is very original, and I think it is worth a try. However, the key question we face is how much we have to pay to buy this What kind of technology? Please tell me a certain number, so that I can make a more detailed plan."

After hearing this, Li Shimin pondered for a moment, and then slowly said: "One hundred thousand taels, do you think this amount can impress the Shengtang Group and make them willing to sell this technology?"

When Li Yun heard this number, his heart sank. He knew that the value of this technology was far more than one hundred thousand taels, which was a huge contempt for the tens of millions of taels invested by Shengtang Group. He immediately replied: "Father, the investment of Shengtang Group in this technology is by no means a small amount. One hundred thousand taels may not be able to impress them. As far as I know, Shengtang Group has invested at least tens of millions of taels. To develop this technology, if we really want to acquire it, the price we have to pay must be a huge number.”

After hearing this, Li Shimin frowned slightly, obviously a little surprised by this number. He asked: "Then what price do you think we need to pay?"

Li Yun took a deep breath, stretched out a finger, and said firmly: "It takes at least 100 million to negotiate. Otherwise, we may not even be qualified to negotiate."

After hearing this, Li Shimin showed a surprised expression on his face. He knew that this figure was also a huge sum of money for Datang, but thinking about the huge benefits that this technology might bring, he couldn't help but start to weigh it in his mind. He was silent for a moment, and that moment of silence seemed to freeze the air, making people feel Li Shimin's inner struggle and weighing. Finally, he spoke slowly: "One hundred million is indeed a large amount. However, if this technology can really bring unprecedented changes and progress to Datang, then the price will be worth it. I will consider you. We will make a decision after discussing with the courtiers.”

Li Yun knew very well that although Li Shimin said on the surface that he wanted to discuss with the ministers, in fact he already had an idea in mind. Which major court affairs were not made by Li Shimin with the final say? The discussions among the ministers were just a formality to add some rationality to Li Shimin's decision-making.

Therefore, Li Yun did not have high expectations and just responded respectfully: "I understand this, but everything depends on the decision of the father and the ministers after discussion."

However, Li Shimin didn't seem to be satisfied with this answer. He frowned slightly and asked, "Huh? It was the result of the ministers' discussion, how did it become my decision?"

Li Yun was shocked and immediately realized that his answer might have misunderstood Li Shimin. He quickly explained: "Father, my son made a mistake. I should have waited for the ministers to discuss it before making a wise decision."

Li Shimin nodded with satisfaction: "That's right. As a prince, you should understand the rules and procedures of the court."

Then, Li Shimin changed the topic and said, "You can stay in the palace tonight."

Li Yun was a little hesitant. He didn't want to stay here any longer. The complicated rules in the palace made him feel restricted. However, Li Shimin didn't seem to intend to let him leave, and continued: "You and your mother haven't seen each other for a long time. Please stay in the palace today."

Speaking of Wang Guifei, Li Yun couldn't help but feel a sense of longing for her. Indeed, since he concentrated on architectural studies, he had little time to spend with his mother. Thinking of this, the resistance in his heart weakened slightly.

However, he was still a little puzzled as to why Li Shimin wanted to keep him and use such methods. So, he asked tentatively: "Father, sons, ministers, wives and children..."

Li Shimin seemed to have anticipated Li Yun's concerns. He smiled and said, "I will let them enter the palace to reunite with you, so that your family can enjoy the happiness of family."

Li Yun was slightly stunned, secretly wondering how to respond. He actually didn't really want to stay in the palace. He still had many things to deal with, and the rules in the palace were cumbersome, which made him feel a little uncomfortable. However, Li Shimin's words had already been spoken, and he could not refuse them directly.

"But..." Li Yun wanted to say something more, and he tried to find a suitable reason to shirk. However, Li Shimin seemed not to give him this opportunity.

"That's it." Li Shimin interrupted Li Yun's words, his tone revealing an unquestionable decision, "I haven't talked to you for a long time. Let's catch up on the past tonight."

Li Yun's heart trembled, and he realized that Li Shimin seemed to have something to talk to him about. Is it a technical issue with Shengtang Group? He couldn't help but feel a little uneasy.

He secretly observed Li Shimin's face and tried to read some clues from it. However, Li Shimin's expression was as calm as water, without any clues. Li Yun had no choice but to put away his doubts and responded respectfully: "Yes, I obey the order."

Li Shimin nodded, seemingly satisfied with Li Yun's response.

"Okay, you go back and get ready. Come into the palace later and have a good chat with me."

He waved his hand and signaled Li Yun to step back. Although Li Yun felt a little uneasy, he had no choice but to resign and leave.

"Yes, Father!" What else could Li Yun say?

He could only agree to Li Shimin's words.

On the way back home, Li Yun kept thinking about the reason why Li Shimin kept him. He understood that Li Shimin would not easily let go of any possible opportunity to learn about the situation of Shengtang Group. He must deal with it carefully and not reveal any flaws.

At the same time, he also began to think about how to respond to Li Shimin's inquiries about technical issues. He knew that no matter what questions Li Shimin raised, he must remain calm and cautious and not easily reveal the secrets of the Shengtang Group.

In this way, Li Yun returned to the mansion with heavy steps in the night with complicated emotions. He knew that tonight's trip to the palace would be a battle without gunpowder and a huge test that he would have to face. The conspiracy and power struggle deep in the palace seemed like an invisible net that could tightly bind him at any time. He must be fully prepared to deal with various situations that may arise in order to remain invincible in a place full of variables.

He sat in his study, meditating alone, frowning. He thought of Li Min, the person with whom he was inextricably linked. Perhaps Li Min can give him some advice and help him find the answer to this test. However, he hesitated. Going to Li Min now doesn't seem to be a wise choice. After all, Wei Zheng must have told Li Min what he had done. If he went to find Li Min now, wouldn't he be throwing himself into a trap and getting himself into deeper trouble?

However, he couldn't help but think that Li Min was the helmsman of the Shengtang Group and he had enough wisdom and strength. Moreover, Li Yun also wanted to use Li Min's power to leave Chang'an, a city full of disputes. If he could get help from Li Min, maybe he could successfully survive this test and realize his wish.

But what on earth is he going to do? Go to Li Min, or face it alone? He was full of contradictions and hesitation. He knew that no matter what choice he made, there might be risks. However, he also understands that only by facing it bravely can he find a way out. So, he took a deep breath and decided to calm down and think carefully before making a decision. (End of chapter)