Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

The next morning, the sky was just turning pale, and the forest was still filled with morning mist. Lin Xiaofeng followed Bai Yongyuan and went up the winding mountain path. The grass and trees on both sides of the path were covered with crystal dewdrops, like gems inlaid on green leaves, flashing the morning light. The brook beside the road was gurgling, and the sound of water accompanied by the occasional bird calls formed a peaceful and harmonious natural symphony.

Lin Xiaofeng was full of doubts. He didn't understand why Bai Yongyuan brought him to this wilderness so early in the morning. Although the interrogation yesterday went smoothly, there was still a lot of follow-up work to be done. He should have been busy in the palace instead of strolling on this mountain path. He wanted to ask several times, but when he saw Bai Yongyuan's calm back and serious face, he swallowed his words back.

Finally, when they reached the middle of the mountain, Bai Yongyuan stopped and turned to look at Lin Xiaofeng. There was a trace of fatigue on his face, but his eyes were shining with determination. Seeing this, Lin Xiaofeng became even more confused, and he waited for Bai Yongyuan's next words.

Bai Yongyuan took a deep breath and slowly said, "Xiaofeng, what was the result of yesterday's interrogation?"

Lin Xiaofeng reported yesterday's interrogation in detail, and Bai Yongyuan nodded in approval. Then, he changed the subject and asked, "What do you think of the current situation in the court?"

Lin Xiaofeng was slightly stunned. He didn't expect Bai Yongyuan to ask such a question. He thought for a moment and then expressed his opinion frankly: "Although the court seems calm on the surface, there are undercurrents. All the major forces are secretly competing for power."

After hearing this, Bai Yongyuan showed a smile with unfathomable meaning on his face: "Xiaofeng, you are indeed a smart person. That's right, this is exactly what the court is like now. And I came to you because I want to discuss an important matter with you."

As he spoke, he pointed to a dilapidated temple not far ahead and said, "Let's go there and take a rest first."

The two of them walked through the shabby gate of the temple and came to a quiet courtyard. In the middle of the courtyard there was a towering old tree, under which stood a stone table and several stone benches. When the two young monks saw Bai Yongyuan, they immediately bowed respectfully and greeted him. Bai Yongyuan nodded slightly and led Lin Xiaofeng to sit down at the stone table.

The tea was quickly served, and the lingering tea fragrance drifted in the morning breeze. Bai Yongyuan took a sip of the teacup and said slowly: "Xiaofeng, although this temple is dilapidated, it is a place for me to cultivate myself. Whenever the government is busy and my thoughts are confused, I will come here to meditate for a few days."

After hearing this, Lin Xiaofeng was filled with admiration: "Mr. Bai has devoted himself to the country and the people. This is truly admirable."

Bai Yongyuan smiled bitterly and shook his head: "I am too old and useless. The cabinet is now run by old people. Sooner or later, our generation will have to retire."

Lin Xiaofeng's heart moved: "What Elder Bai meant was..."

"That's right." Bai Yongyuan put down the teacup and looked at Lin Xiaofeng with burning eyes, "I hope you can take over the position of Prime Minister of the Cabinet."

Lin Xiaofeng was shocked when he heard this. He never expected Bai Yongyuan to make such a request: "Master Bai, this... this is probably inappropriate. I am still young and inexperienced. How can I take on such an important task?"

Bai Yongyuan smiled, "So what if you are young and inexperienced? You are talented and capable, and you are exactly what the court needs. What's more,..." He paused, "The position of the cabinet's prime minister is not just about experience and age, but more importantly, ability and wisdom."

Lin Xiaofeng was silent for a long time after hearing this, and an indescribable feeling of emotion welled up in his heart. He knew that Bai Yongyuan had high expectations of him, but he also knew the importance and difficulty of this position. However, facing Bai Yongyuan's trust and expectations, how could he easily refuse?

Finally, he took a deep breath and said firmly: "Since Lord Bai trusts me so much, I will do my best!"

"Isn't this nonsense, Lord Bai?" Lin Xiaofeng frowned, and felt a headache in his heart. In front of him was Bai Yongyuan's unhappy face. The veteran of two dynasties seemed puzzled by his refusal. "They don't want to do it, and you are not forcing them to do it. As a veteran of two dynasties, is there any law for you to do things this way? Is there any law?"

Lin Xiaofeng glanced out the window. The afterglow of the setting sun was shining on the lake in the Imperial Garden. The golden light illuminated the lake, and the ripples sparkled. The scenery was picturesque. However, he had no intention of appreciating it, and just felt a little irritated. When he came here, he had never expected to face such a "big gift".

Bai Yongyuan looked unhappy, as if he couldn't understand Lin Xiaofeng's refusal. In his opinion, this was an opportunity that all the talented people in the world dreamed of, but Lin Xiaofeng avoided it like a snake or scorpion.

"Is it so difficult to let you join the cabinet? This is an opportunity that many people dream of. You must seize it!" Bai Yongyuan advised again, his tone revealing confusion and expectation.

Lin Xiaofeng shook his head helplessly, "What can I be sure of? You forgot that I am the son-in-law of the emperor, which is an exceptional appointment. Now that I am in the cabinet, what will people think of me? What will the court officials say?"

He paused and continued, "Now that I am the commander of the Jinyiwei, I have enough power. It is not an exaggeration to say that I am the most noble official in the world. If I rise further, I am afraid that someone will see my power and make unwarranted assumptions, suspecting that I have ulterior motives. They will say that I, Lin Xiaofeng, am a relative of the emperor interfering in government affairs. What should I do then?"

Bai Yongyuan looked thoughtful when he heard this. He had to admit that Lin Xiaofeng's worries were not unreasonable. However, he still insisted on his point of view: "This will never happen! His Majesty treats you as his own son. For so many years, you have been in charge of the supervision power, and you have neither formed a clique for personal gain nor used revenge for personal gain. All officials know it."

He glanced at Lin Xiaofeng and continued, "The power in your hands is no more than that of His Majesty. I know you are rich, but what is there to be afraid of? Who would be suspicious just because you are rich? As for how the people discuss it, they still believe what the newspapers say."

When Lin Xiaofeng heard this, he couldn't help but wail and stroked his forehead. He felt a headache. This Bai Gelao seemed determined to push him to a higher position. However, he knew that once he got promoted, he would inevitably be suspected by others, and it might even damage his relationship with Emperor Jingjiang and the Crown Prince.

Even if his official position has not been promoted, he is already in a very tight spot. Bai Yongyuan has no idea how strong his background is. As the head of the first military spy agency in Jingjiang, the second largest shareholder of Jingxing Bank, the man behind the Kyoto Stock Exchange, the largest shareholder of the largest shipbuilding family in Jingjiang, the founder of the most influential newspaper in Jingjiang... With so many titles, he is already a person standing at the forefront of the storm.

The sun had completely set and the sky gradually darkened. Lin Xiaofeng looked out the window at the night, feeling mixed emotions. He knew that his industry had already affected the lives of all the people in Jingjiang, and all this was the result of his years of hard work. However, now, these had become his burden and bondage.

"Lord Bai, I don't think you understand me at all." Lin Xiaofeng turned around, looked at Bai Yongyuan and said, "You said that His Majesty treats me as his own child. Because of this, I can't take another step forward. This precious relationship needs to be maintained at all times. For this reason, even if my power is taken away and I have to spend all my wealth, I will never let it be affected in the slightest."

Hearing this, Bai Yongyuan couldn't help but cover his eyes, revealing an expression that he couldn't bear to look directly at it, "My Lord, that's enough. Even if you are His Majesty's biological son, you don't have to do this, right?" He sighed in his heart, the word "licking God" is the most appropriate to describe Lin Xiaofeng's performance at the moment. However, he didn't know how to respond to Lin Xiaofeng's sincere words.

Lin Xiaofeng was silent, not knowing how to respond to Bai Yongyuan's ridicule. He said all the truth, but others did not believe him. This unconditional trust was related to the future and there could not be any mistakes. Therefore, he could only respond to Bai Yongyuan's doubts and ridicule with silence.

"In short, I can't do this job, and you don't have to persuade me anymore." Lin Xiaofeng said in a decisive tone, as if he had made up his mind.

Bai Yongyuan frowned and looked at Lin Xiaofeng, "What if His Majesty wants you to do it?" He tried to pressure Lin Xiaofeng in the name of His Majesty, but the latter did not buy it.

"Then I will resign! I will not do this job anymore." Lin Xiaofeng answered without hesitation, as if he had prepared for the worst. He knew where his bottom line was, and he also knew that he could not lose more precious things because of power. Therefore, he would rather give up power and stick to his principles and bottom line.

Bai Yongyuan looked at Lin Xiaofeng in astonishment, as if he couldn't understand his decision. "You...what are you trying to do? I really can't figure it out." He shook his head and said, "When I came here today, I thought this was an extremely normal and friendly communication, but now..."

He seemed unable to follow Lin Xiaofeng's thoughts and could only look at him helplessly. Lin Xiaofeng remained silent and did not respond to his words, as if he was thinking about his future and choices.

"It makes me feel comfortable! I'm so rich now, I just want to live happily." Lin Xiaofeng finally spoke, with a calm smile on his face, "Lord Bai, I appreciate your kindness. But I really can't accept this position."

Upon hearing this, Bai Yongyuan could not help but slap the stone table, "I'll tell you the truth! His Majesty has decided to lead the army in person, crush the church, and subdue the rebels! As soon as his wounds are healed, he will prepare to march out. Before he leaves, he will pass the throne to the crown prince, and I have already drafted the edict of succession."

He paused and continued, "I have asked for your resignation, but your Majesty has asked me to stay, so I cannot refuse. I will wait until the crown prince ascends the throne, and then I will retire. This is not because I am noble and upright, but because I am too old to shoulder the heavy responsibility. You see, the world is changing every year, and it was you who started it all, so you should continue to support it."

"What? His Majesty has decided to pass on the throne?" Lin Xiaofeng suddenly widened his eyes and looked at Bai Yongyuan, "He also decided to go on a western expedition?" This was too sudden! It was too shocking! He had never thought that His Majesty would make such a decision!

Bai Yongyuan nodded bitterly, "Yes! It happened suddenly, and I didn't expect it. I guess he made up his mind because he knew that the King of Hanjiang had too much power overseas. No one else knows about this yet. I guess he will make a formal announcement after your majesty has recovered from his injuries."

Lin Xiaofeng couldn't help shaking his head when he heard this. "No! He absolutely cannot go west! Lord Bai, why don't you stop him?" He questioned, looking at Bai Yongyuan with a serious expression. He knew that His Majesty's injuries had not fully recovered, and going west at this time would undoubtedly be a risky move!

"Can I stop him? His Majesty has made up his mind... No one can persuade him." Bai Yongyuan sighed helplessly, as if he had given up the idea of ​​persuading His Majesty.

However, Lin Xiaofeng did not give up. "No, no, no! We should go together to stop him!" He said firmly, "Although Jingjiang is currently powerful, I think the gap in weapons and equipment is far from being irreparable. We can wait until we are absolutely sure before taking action!"

He paused and continued, "Besides, we have only built one ironclad ship, which is not enough! We need at least three or five! It's too hasty to send troops now!" He knew that the risk of carrying out a westward expedition at this time was too great, and he had to make all preparations before setting off!
Bai Yongyuan couldn't help but nodded when he heard this, "Is it hasty? Now that King Hanjiang's spy has been captured by my Jingjiang, I'm afraid he will take the initiative when he reacts." He said with some concern, as if he had foreseen the future crisis.

However, Lin Xiaofeng shook his head, "I don't think so. He is too cautious...his spies have been captured by us, so he dare not act rashly." He analyzed, "Let's not mention the matter of Elder Bai asking me to join the cabinet now. The most important thing is to find a way to convince His Majesty not to act rashly. Moreover, even if there is a fight, it should definitely not be him who does it."

He glanced at Bai Yongyuan and continued, "Of course the prince will go." His words revealed firmness and decisiveness, as if he had made all the preparations and plans. He knew that only the prince could take on this important task and lead Jingjiang to a more glorious future! And he would do his best to support and assist the prince in completing this great mission!
"That's absolutely impossible!" Bai Yongyuan's voice suddenly rose. He stood up abruptly and stared at Lin Xiaofeng with eyes full of astonishment and dissatisfaction. "I warn you, don't even think about stirring up trouble with the Crown Prince and causing unnecessary trouble!"

Bai Yongyuan's reaction was within Lin Xiaofeng's expectations. This experienced old minister knew the prince's character very well - passionate, impulsive, but also very capable of leadership. He knew that once the prince learned that His Majesty intended to go overseas to fight, he would definitely take the initiative to ask to go with him.

Bai Yongyuan was both pleased and deeply worried about the prince's innate adventurous spirit and desire for the unknown. He clearly remembered that when the prince was a child, he sneaked into the forbidden area of ​​the palace alone just to explore the legendary secret. Now, he is the crown prince of the country, but his adventurous spirit does not seem to be restrained by the change of identity.

Bai Yongyuan looked at Lin Xiaofeng, his doubts surging in his heart. What was the intention of this kid's proposal? His Majesty has not yet abdicated, so has he already begun to plan how to please the future emperor? Such a move is too risky and even a little inappropriate.

Lin Xiaofeng looked at Bai Yongyuan's complicated expression and felt helpless. He knew that his proposal was indeed difficult for this conservative and steady old minister to accept. But he still wanted to try his best to persuade Bai Yongyuan, because he knew that the prince needed this opportunity and the country also needed the prince's adventure.

"Mr. Bai," Lin Xiaofeng said slowly, "what do you think of the prince's abilities and character?"

Bai Yongyuan was stunned for a moment. He didn't expect Lin Xiaofeng to ask such a question. But he answered truthfully: "The prince is very capable. Although he is a little impulsive, he also has rare decisiveness and leadership. He may not be the most rule-abiding person, but his style of doing things often brings unexpected success."

"So," Lin Xiaofeng continued to ask, "Do you think it is possible for the Crown Prince to surpass your Majesty's achievements?"

Bai Yongyuan was silent. He knew that His Majesty's achievements were great - population growth, increased grain production, suppression of foreign invasions, development of the West Sea... all of these were unprecedented feats. How easy would it be to surpass such achievements?
However, the prince is the kind of person who is willing to accept challenges and move forward courageously. In his heart, he has a dream wider than the sea and an ambition higher than the sky. Bai Yongyuan knows that the prince will never be satisfied with just being a king who maintains the status quo.

Lin Xiaofeng saw Bai Yongyuan's hesitation and struggle. He sighed and said, "Mr. Bai, the situation is changing. In the next few decades, Jingjiang will face more challenges and opportunities. A king who can maintain the status quo may be able to maintain the status quo, but if we want to lead this country to a more glorious future, we need a leader like the prince."

He paused and continued, "The prince carries not only the future of Jingjiang, but also the future of the world. He must be pioneering, enterprising, brave and confident. This is his destiny and his responsibility."

Bai Yongyuan couldn't help but feel a surge of pride when he heard Lin Xiaofeng's words. He seemed to see the day when the prince led the army of Jingjiang to pacify the West Sea and conquer the church. However, after the pride, he still couldn't let go of his worry about the prince's safety.

"You may have a point," Bai Yongyuan sighed, "but the prince's safety is more important than Mount Tai. There are many risks on the road. If something goes wrong, it will be a major event that will shake the foundation of the country. Can you bear this responsibility?"

Lin Xiaofeng met Bai Yongyuan's gaze without flinching: "Everyone should be responsible for himself, especially as an emperor. If the prince wants to be a true leader, he must take greater risks than ordinary people. This is his mission and his honor." He took a deep breath and continued: "Lord Bai, I hope you can come with me to the palace to meet His Majesty and explain everything. I believe His Majesty will understand our painstaking efforts."

However, Bai Yongyuan shook his head: "Nonsense! You are really nonsense! I originally thought you were a steady person, but I didn't expect that you are so adventurous in your bones. If you are allowed to join the cabinet and participate in politics, I am afraid that the prince will be instigated by you to be lawless!"

After that, he stamped his foot heavily and turned away, leaving behind a sentence that echoed in the air: "Go and talk to His Majesty yourself! I will pretend that I have never looked for you today!"

Lin Xiaofeng felt a little heavy as he watched Bai Yongyuan leave. He knew that his proposal was too radical for this old minister, but he also firmly believed that it was a necessary risk. He took a deep breath, straightened his robe, and walked straight to the palace.

In the warm room, Emperor Jingjiang was lying quietly on the bed recovering from his injuries, while Li Dexian was sitting beside him reading memorials to him. Hearing Lin Xiaofeng's footsteps, Emperor Jingjiang opened his eyes.

"Xiao Feng is here," he said in a slightly weak voice, "what's the matter?"

Lin Xiaofeng bowed and asked, "How is your majesty's injury?"

"The medicine has been changed," Emperor Jingjiang smiled slightly, "It should be healed in ten days or half a month."

Lin Xiaofeng nodded to show his satisfaction, then he leaned close to Li Dexian and whispered, "Your Highness, can you please allow me to talk to His Majesty alone?"

Li Dexian was stunned for a moment, then stood up and said, "Then you guys chat, I'll go out for a walk."

After Li Dexian left, Lin Xiaofeng stated his purpose directly: "Your Majesty, Lord Bai has already contacted me, but I think this is not feasible."

"Oh?" Emperor Jingjiang raised his eyebrows, "Why?"

"It is neither in accordance with the ancestral system nor the rules," Lin Xiaofeng said solemnly, "The court must follow the rules, otherwise we will not be able to govern the people of the world."

Emperor Jingjiang sneered at the words and said, "It's really new to hear you talk about ancestral rules and regulations. If you don't want to, just say it directly. Why bother to find these high-sounding excuses?"

Lin Xiaofeng did not respond but changed the subject: "I came here for another matter. Has Your Majesty made up your mind to pass the throne to the Crown Prince?"

"It's only a matter of time," Emperor Jingjiang sighed, "I plan to tell him later."

"Since Your Majesty has made up his mind, I dare not say anything more," Lin Xiaofeng said in a deep voice, "But if Your Majesty wants to go overseas to fight, I will never agree to it."

Emperor Jingjiang frowned: "Why?"

"Your Majesty has worked hard all his life, and it is time for you to enjoy your old age," Lin Xiaofeng said earnestly, "It is not wise to risk going overseas to fight at this time. I think it is better to leave some things to the Crown Prince."

"It's easy for you to say that," Emperor Jingjiang snorted coldly, "Don't you understand the Crown Prince's character? If I leave it to him to handle, the first thing he will think of is to lead the army himself! By then, I won't be able to stop him even if I want to!"

"Then let your Highness go," Lin Xiaofeng said firmly, "I will do my best to take good care of your Highness and ensure that he succeeds in the battle. In this way, your Highness will be famous all over the world, and no one will dare to disobey you."

Emperor Jingjiang's eyes flashed with surprise: "What nonsense are you talking about? You should be the one who should stop him! War is unpredictable, who can guarantee victory in every battle?"

"I know I can't stop Your Highness," Lin Xiaofeng pursed his lips, "but please give me a chance and let me lead Your Highness to the battle. After two days of recuperation, I would like to ask Your Highness to go to Yangqu to see it in person. There are some things that may change your mind after seeing them."

Emperor Jingjiang looked at Lin Xiaofeng deeply, was silent for a moment, and then slowly said: "Okay, then I will see what you can come up with to make me change my mind."

"I am old now and have decided to abdicate and pass the throne to the crown prince. I have asked the Ministry of Rites to select an auspicious day for the coronation ceremony." The voice of Emperor Jingjiang echoed in the hall, with a deep and resolute meaning. He sat upright on the dragon throne, and his bright yellow dragon robe made him look majestic and solemn. His eyes were like torches, silently observing the different expressions of the officials below.

Li Dexian was the head of all officials. At this moment, he seemed to be in a dream, and fell into an indescribable state of confusion. When he went to court today, this sudden news was like a heavy bomb, which made him unable to react in a short time.

A moment later, the voice of Emperor Jingjiang sounded again: "I have one last order before I retire, Prince, please listen to it." Although his voice was calm, it carried an unquestionable majesty.

Li Dexian seemed to have just woken up from a dream. He hurriedly stepped forward and bowed respectfully in front of Emperor Jingjiang: "Your son is here."

"After I abdicate, you must not initiate a war with the church within two years. Jingjiang still needs time to prepare. After the preparations are complete, you will lead the troops yourself to crush the church and enhance the national prestige of Jingjiang." The voice of Emperor Jingjiang was sonorous and powerful, and every word seemed to hit Li Dexian's heart.

"Son...son, I obey your order." Li Dexian's voice trembled slightly, and he was obviously shocked to the extreme by the news.

"Your Majesty, please think twice! For small Western countries, we can just send troops to conquer them. Why take such a dangerous risk?" A minister finally couldn't help but stood up, his voice full of worry.

As soon as these words came out, all the ministers echoed them, and there was an uproar in the hall. Bai Yongyuan, who had been calm at first, also changed his expression at this moment, and looked at Emperor Jingjiang with an extremely shocked expression.

He was not surprised by the news of the succession, but he was caught off guard by the fact that Emperor Jingjiang suddenly changed his mind and asked the crown prince to lead the army in person. He could not help but look at Lin Xiaofeng standing beside him, with doubts in his heart.

Lin Xiaofeng seemed to have anticipated all this, standing there calmly. He had just come back from visiting Yangqu County yesterday, and had already agreed on this plan with Emperor Jingjiang. Even before his wounds had healed, Emperor Jingjiang couldn't wait to announce his abdication.

Looking at the ministers discussing what was going on, Emperor Jingjiang waved his hand helplessly and said, "Stop talking, everyone go out, Lin Xiaofeng stay." Although his voice was not loud, it had an irresistible power.

The officials could only retreat helplessly. Before leaving, Li Dexian quietly patted Lin Xiaofeng on the shoulder and whispered, "I'll wait for you outside."

Lin Xiaofeng nodded slightly to show that he understood. Soon, only Emperor Jingjiang and Lin Xiaofeng were left in the hall. Emperor Jingjiang looked at Lin Xiaofeng absentmindedly and said, "I have never been afraid of anything in my life, but yesterday... you really scared me." He paused and continued, "How many secrets do you have that I don't know?" He stared at Lin Xiaofeng with a sharp gaze as if he wanted to see through his heart.

Lin Xiaofeng hesitated for a moment and clasped his fists and said, "I do have some personal secrets, but I have always been clear in my conscience for the country and my family. I am even more unreserved towards my father and my family. I have not done some things because the time is not right yet." He spoke sincerely and firmly, looking calmly at Emperor Jingjiang. Hearing Lin Xiaofeng's words, Emperor Jingjiang couldn't help but fall into deep thought. He silently looked at the young man in front of him with a lot of emotion in his heart. After a long time, he slowly said, "Then you should have informed me when you were secretly researching weapons! If such a killing weapon falls into the hands of an illegal person, it will be a disaster!" There was a hint of blame and worry in his voice.

Lin Xiaofeng was silent for a moment, then said: "I have committed the crime of deceiving the emperor and deserve to be punished by death." His voice was low and firm, as if he was ready to bear all the consequences.

"Yes, it is indeed deceiving the emperor! And this is not the first time." Emperor Jingjiang said with a stern face, "If it were someone else, I don't know how many times he would have to die. Ling Chi, which I have tortured him to death, is considered a light punishment." Although his tone was stern, a complex emotion flashed in his eyes.

"If you want to sentence me to death, I will gladly accept it." Lin Xiaofeng said calmly, without a trace of fear on his face. This calmness and frankness moved Emperor Jingjiang.

"Oh, there's nothing I can do about you." Emperor Jingjiang looked at him helplessly and shook his head, his tone also softened a lot, "Xiaofeng, I want to build a palace in Yangqu County, it doesn't have to be too big, but it needs to be exquisite and comfortable." He paused and continued, "I'm not worried about you, I just like Yangqu County. When I first met you, Yangqu County left a deep impression on me, and I was still amazed when I went there again yesterday." At this point, a trace of reminiscence and emotion flashed in his eyes. Lin Xiaofeng nodded silently, but couldn't help muttering in his heart: "You are worried about me and want to go to Yangqu County to see me in person?" But he also knew that Emperor Jingjiang's worries were not groundless, after all, he did have too many secrets. So he nodded in agreement on the surface, but he was secretly alert in his heart, and at the same time he couldn't help but admire the insight and decisiveness of the old emperor. Then the two talked about some other things. Emperor Jingjiang also asked Lin Xiaofeng in detail about the development of Yangqu County, and gave some suggestions and guidance, which benefited Lin Xiaofeng a lot. Finally, Emperor Jingjiang waved his hand and said, "Xiaofeng, you go back first. My wound needs a few days to heal." There was a hint of fatigue and weakness in his voice, but his eyes were still firm and deep, as if he could see through everything. Lin Xiaofeng bowed and turned to leave. The moment he stepped out of the door, he was pulled aside by a hand, "Old Lin! What's the situation with the emperor? I'm not prepared at all. Why didn't anyone tell me?" Li Dexian asked hurriedly, his face full of anxiety and confusion, obviously disrupted by this sudden news. Lin Xiaofeng looked at him meaningfully and said, "Your Highness, fate never gives people time to prepare. It's your turn to carry the banner." His voice was calm and firm, as if he had expected everything. Li Dexian frowned and said, "I know! But I can't understand what the emperor said. This is not his style at all! It's fine to let me succeed to the throne, but why do you have to wait two years to attack the church and why do you let me go to the battle in person?" He was obviously confused and puzzled by Emperor Jingjiang's decision, and at the same time he was full of worries and expectations for his future. Lin Xiaofeng answered honestly, "It's been two years since we knew that the King of Hanjiang controlled the church and could attack at any time, but he delayed for two years, and let me lead the army to fight. I am very happy. But when did the emperor trust me so much?" He paused here and continued, "Old Lin, the emperor trusts you more than me. Do you know something? Don't hide it from me!" He stared at Lin Xiaofeng closely, as if he wanted to read something from his eyes. Lin Xiaofeng took a deep breath and said slowly, "I did talk to your majesty about this matter, and we talked about it yesterday. As for the church... the King of Hanjiang dare not act rashly. And we can use the Razor Society to release false information to delay him. We also need more ironclad ships and weapons and equipment, which can be prepared in two years." He explained the decision of Emperor Jingjiang in detail and gave his own analysis and opinions. Hearing this, Li Dexian nodded thoughtfully and said, "As for why he decided to let you go in person, you actually don't know. His Majesty is very proud of you. He drank too much yesterday and said that you are a master of military tactics and can behead Bater alone. This bravery is far beyond his youth. It's just that he is unwilling to say it out loud because of his old father's dignity." When he said this, a look of pride and admiration appeared on his face. Lin Xiaofeng glanced at him with extreme contempt, thinking to himself, "I think you are ready for it!" But he also knew that now was not the time to sabotage, so he continued, "As long as we are well prepared, and with the military talent of His Highness, we can fight a war. Wouldn't it be easy for a mere foreigner to cut melons and vegetables?" He tried to use his words to inspire Li Dexian and make him more determined to move towards the future. Li Dexian's confidence increased immediately after hearing this. He patted Lin Xiaofeng on the shoulder and said, "Old Lin, you are right! As long as we work together, we will definitely be able to enhance the prestige of Jingjiang!" The two smiled at each other, and the barriers and doubts in their hearts seemed to disappear at this moment. At this moment, a cough suddenly came from behind, "Cough!" Wang Jingwen's cough sounded, and the two looked up at the same time. The blue and red face of the Emperor of Jingjiang suddenly appeared in his eyes, and the blue veins had spread from his neck to his forehead. It was obvious that he was extremely angry, "I am not dead yet! Are you two beasts ready to rebel? Get in here! Close the door!!!" His voice echoed in the hall like thunder, making the two people tremble in their hearts.

After the auspicious date was chosen, the day of the coronation ceremony was approaching. The new emperor was about to ascend the throne, and the atmosphere of universal celebration enveloped the entire palace and even the streets and alleys of the capital. Although this was a ceremony full of red tape, everyone was full of expectations.

At this special moment, even the usually erratic prince had to put away his cynicism and began to patiently learn the etiquette that must be followed at the coronation ceremony. The officials were also preparing nervously, they had a unique and obedient set of etiquette to learn, and everyone hoped to leave a good impression in front of the new emperor.

However, in this busy scene, there was one person who seemed particularly relaxed, and that was Lin Xiaofeng. He knew that he was just a supporting role on this big stage of history, so he didn't pay much attention to those cumbersome etiquette. When people from the Ministry of Rites came to him to learn etiquette, he always found an excuse to slip away.

Lin Xiaofeng was not very interested in the power struggle in the court, and his mind was more focused on the affairs of Yangqu County. Although he was not good at scientific research, the memory fragments from the future in his mind were enough to promote the research progress of this era.

Emperor Jingjiang just smiled indifferently at Lin Xiaofeng's attitude. He did not force Lin Xiaofeng to learn those etiquettes. In his opinion, this son-in-law has always been like this and there is no hope for him. Moreover, his state of mind has changed now. He values ​​the harmony between father and son more than those formalities.

Time passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye it was the day of the coronation ceremony.

On this day, the entire palace was shrouded in a solemn and sacred atmosphere. Li Dexian, dressed in his best clothes, led the officials to worship the heaven and earth, the ancestral temple, and the country. When they arrived at the Zi Luo Palace, the surrounding drums sounded loudly, shocking everyone.

After the three drum beats, all officials entered one after another. The scene was solemn and spectacular. Li Dexian walked forward according to the etiquette, and the sound of bells and chimes and music were heard all around him. At this moment, he was about to officially take over the throne and become the new ruler of this country.

In the Purple Palace, Emperor Jingjiang was already sitting there, waiting for this important moment to come. Beside him, Wang Jingwen looked a little listless. As the head of the Western Factory, all his power came from Emperor Jingjiang, and today, with the abdication of Emperor Jingjiang, his power would also come to an end. However, he was secretly glad that he should be able to live a carefree life in his later years.

Finally, Li Dexian led all the officials into the Ziluo Palace. Emperor Jingjiang immediately looked at him, and at the same time he was paying attention to the reactions of all the officials. Many old officials were already in tears, and they felt extremely emotional and excited for the arrival of this moment.

After the officials from the Ministry of Rites came forward to report, Emperor Jingjiang responded one by one according to the routine. Then, he glanced at Wang Jingwen beside him, and Wang Jingwen understood and read out the imperial edict that had been prepared long ago. Li Dexian took a deep breath and expressed his gratitude with a firm look.

Following Wang Jingwen's chanting, Li Dexian slowly stood up and stepped onto the throne room. Emperor Jingjiang also stood up, his eyes flashing with complex light. This moment was simply thrilling for His Highness and his ministers, and their hearts were already in their throats.

For Lin Xiaofeng, this moment was filled with emotion. He looked up and saw Li Dexian sitting on the dragon throne, his heart filled with emotion and excitement. He witnessed the end of this great emperor and would also witness the new emperor opening a new chapter in history.

Li Dexian sat on the dragon throne and looked around, feeling uncomfortable and nervous. He wanted to say something, but when he saw Emperor Jingjiang beside him, he felt like something stuck in his throat. Finally, he locked his eyes on Lin Xiaofeng, and only when he saw Lin Xiaofeng did he feel a little more confident.

Officials from the Ministry of Rites began to read out a series of names of people who had been conferred titles. This was a necessary procedure after the new emperor ascended the throne. Lin Xiaofeng also nominated a group of powerful and trusted candidates to join the new court team. After the conferment was finished, all officials saluted and shouted "Long live the emperor" three times, pushing the whole ceremony to a climax.

Li Dexian's tension was slightly relieved, and he smiled and asked the ministers to stand up. However, when he was about to say something to Emperor Jingjiang, he found that Emperor Jingjiang was glaring at him fiercely, as if blaming him for his guilty conscience and shifty eyes.

The ministers were still looking at Li Dexian with expectation, waiting for his next instruction. However, Li Dexian coughed lightly and said that he wanted to be alone for a while and asked everyone to leave. This unexpected move stunned everyone present. They didn't expect that the first words of the new emperor after ascending the throne would be this. (End of this chapter)