Sheng Tang: What is Liu Jianjun going to do today?

Chapter 189 Poetry Recitation and Boxing at the Celebration
Li Xian's sudden cheer startled everyone present for a moment. Only when they saw the Hu woman in front of Li Xian spinning the Hu Xuan dance even more energetically did they let out a meaningful chuckle.

Then, pretend you didn't see it and turn your head away.

But it seems some people are unwilling to let this opportunity slip by.

Wu Chengsi, the newly appointed prince of the Wu Zhou Dynasty, who had just been enfeoffed as the King of Wei.

"Brother Prince Pei has a refined taste."

Wu Chengsi approached with a wine glass in hand, smiling, his smile appearing somewhat humble.

But Li Xian did not let his guard down.

This is the person Liu Jianjun specifically told him to be wary of.

Li Xian emphasized, "Cousin."

"What?" Wu Chengsi seemed not to have reacted.

“I say, King Wei should address me as his cousin,” Li Xian emphasized the word “cousin.”

The meaning is self-evident: I am your biological son, and you are just your nephew; we are only cousins.

Wu Chengsi's humble smile instantly froze, and a sinister glint flashed in his eyes, but it was quickly covered up by an even wider smile.

This time, however, there was a hint of confrontation in that smile.

"Hehe, it was Chengsi who was impolite." Wu Chengsi bowed and apologized, then said, "Cousin, today His Majesty ascends the throne, and everything is renewed. Such a grand occasion cannot be without poetry. Why don't we add to the festivities with poems and congratulate His Majesty?"

He spoke in a deliberately loud voice, making sure that many members of the royal family and officials around him could hear him.

In an instant, many people showed expressions of astonishment.

But soon, that initial surprise turned into amusement and anticipation.

Anyone with eyes can see that Wu Chengsi is looking for trouble.

To put it bluntly, Wu Chengsi's behavior was that of a petty person who had gained power. Having risen from a maternal relative to a prince overnight, he naturally wanted to show off in front of Li Xian, a prince from the "previous dynasty".

Who was Wu Chengsi?

If Li Xian in his youth was a somewhat talented and witty playboy, then Wu Chengsi, at the same time, was a pure and simple playboy.

As a relative of the emperor's family, Wu Chengsi's future is bright, but his potential is also already fixed.

Therefore, Wu Chengsi only needed to be a spoiled brat and live a life of leisure.

but,
Who could have known that one day, the former Wu Zetian would ascend to that supreme position?
Even Wu Chengsi suddenly felt a sense of urgency.

He was living a good life as a spoiled rich kid when suddenly one day someone told him that he should start thinking about self-cultivation and learning from the virtuous—because these are essential qualities for a crown prince.

If Wu Chengsi wishes to wear the crown, he must bear its weight.

even……

He might even become the future emperor!

Under this extreme temptation, even though Wu Chengsi was not used to these things, he was trying his best to work in this direction.

And now, standing before him is the former crown prince of the Tang Dynasty.

If he didn't come up and make a scene, he would be letting down his spoiled nature since childhood!

However, what surprised everyone was...

How dare Wu Chengsi?

Whether one dares or not has nothing to do with power or influence.

Wu Chengsi is now the Prince of Wei, and like Li Xian, he is a prince of the first rank. They are equally noble in status. In addition, his surname is "Wu". So even if he and Li Xian were to fight in the palace, it is hard to say who His Majesty would side with.

The question of whether or not to dare here refers only to the difference in their literary talent.

Although Li Xian was a playboy, he had at least received a classical Confucian education from a young age, was well-versed in the Four Books and Five Classics, and even had a reputation for talent.

What makes Wu Chengsi, a complete playboy, dare to do that?
Li Xian also looked at him with a strange expression.

Although Liu Jianjun, the man who could compose timeless masterpieces on a whim, was not by his side, he himself was still capable of "picking poems once, then again, then three or four times." Wu Chengsi wanted to join him in composing poetry.
Does he not know his own limitations?

However, Wu Chengsi showed no unusual expression despite the questioning or amused gazes from those around him, which made Li Xian secretly wary. He asked, "Oh? How does the Prince of Wei intend to compose a poem?"

“I have long heard of your talent, cousin, and I am ashamed to admit that I am not as good as you.” Wu Chengsi was quite the straightforward man, admitting his shortcomings right away.

Then, the tone shifted, "However, the most important thing in congratulating His Majesty is sincerity. How can we back down because of our lack of talent? Furthermore, today's grand banquet has gathered many wise men, which is a perfect opportunity to emulate the elegant practice of making friends through literature. I, Chengsi, am not very talented, but I have recruited a few scholars under my command who are somewhat literate. Let them do the work, to offer a starting point, so that those of us who are of military background can also benefit from some literary influence."

After listening, Li Xian understood what he was planning.

He claimed to be a military man and made his story of ghostwriting sound very respectable.

In this way, he could ask someone else to perform for him, or even have someone prepare a poem in advance and recite it in front of Li Xian.

Li Xian, however, was required to compose a poem on the spot, in person, that was in accordance with the theme of "congratulating His Majesty".

Not everyone in this world is Cao Zijian, capable of writing a poem that is both grammatically correct and meaningful within seven steps.

Wu Chengsi's plan was insidious; whether Li Xian accepted it or not, he would have the upper hand.

If Li Xian declines, it would be disrespectful to His Majesty and would also make him appear unworthy of his reputation. If Li Xian accepts the task but performs it poorly, even worse than the "brick-throwing" of his own retainers, it would be a great disgrace. Even if Li Xian performs well, it would be only right and proper.

Wu Chengsi suffered no loss; on the contrary, he appeared to be "promoting elegance" and actively adding to the splendor of the banquet.

Li Xian sneered inwardly, but remained outwardly calm, saying, "Since the Prince of Wei has such virtuous men under his wing, I am all ears."

At the same time, he thought to himself, "If only Liu Jianjun were here."

When it comes to composing poetry, Li Xian is confident that no matter who Wu Chengsi brings in, it will be to no avail.

That was Liu Jianjun, who had Wang Bo completely under his thumb with just one poem, "The Road to Shu is Hard".

Wu Chengsi seemed to have been waiting for these words. He immediately turned around and gestured to a scholar who was already prepared behind him: "Scholar Su, you shall go first and compose a poem to congratulate His Majesty. Please have His Highness Prince Pei appreciate it."

The official in the blue robe, Su, stepped forward in response, bowed respectfully towards the throne, and, clearly having prepared a speech beforehand, after a brief pause, recited aloud:

"The purple auspiciousness is revealed, and a divine bird descends from the cinnabar cave."

"Five colors form a pattern, nine buds shine with a crimson heart."

"I dare to refuse the homage of a hundred birds, and forever accompany the lady in her chanting."

"We meet again in Mingqi, and the whole world admires your virtuous reputation."

Upon the release of this poem, many officials, especially those from Wu Zetian's faction, immediately cheered.

"Excellent! 'Always Accompanying the Queen's Lament' is a fitting phrase!"

"'See you again at Mingqi' is a sign that our Great Zhou Emperor is about to ascend the throne!"

"That's absolutely amazing!"

Praises rose and fell, and even Empress Wu, who sat at the head of the table, cast her gaze here.

Li Xian nodded secretly as well.

Although Li Xian's own poetry skills are not very good, at least compared to Liu Jianjun, he admits that he can't even come close.

Li Xian has a good eye for poetry, after all, he has been exposed to such things since childhood.

The poem is ornate and uses allusions appropriately. The phrase "Mingqi" refers to the auspicious omen of the phoenix's cry at Qishan, which coincides with the special occasion of the female protagonist's ascension to the throne. It can be described as a standard and safe poem of praise to the emperor.

but……

After hearing the poem, Li Xian knew he was guaranteed to win.

Because the term "female ruler" in this poem makes no attempt to conceal the fact that the mother is a woman.

When Li Xian heard the words "female ruler," he almost instinctively thought of Liu Jianjun's instructions: you should try to downplay her female identity.

Indeed, the poem written by Su Sheren, whom Wu Chengsi invited, was truly excellent. If it were presented to the Empress Dowager on its own, she would certainly appreciate it.

But his mistake was that he wanted to "compete with himself in poetry."

As long as one doesn't mention the Empress Dowager's "woman" identity and downplays feminine characteristics, even if the poem one writes is not as ornate or apt as this one, it will still be a thousand times better in the Empress Dowager's heart if placed alongside this poem.

Li Xian felt much more at ease. At this moment, everyone present had already focused their attention on Li Xian.

Wu Chengsi, with undisguised pride, feigned humility and said, "Cousin, my humble writings are probably not worthy of your attention. I beg you to enlighten us so that we may also benefit from the literary style of the Prince of Pei's mansion."

He deliberately emphasized the three characters "Pei Wang Fu" (沛王府), subtly implying a hidden meaning.

Li Xian's mind raced, but he didn't pay attention to the provocation in his words and was about to speak.

Suddenly, a clear, bright, and somewhat powerful female voice rang out from behind: "Oh, what a lively scene! Is Cousin Prince Wei seeking advice on poetry from Second Brother?"

Li Xian turned his head in astonishment.

Peace.

Princess Taiping, dressed in a magnificent princess gown and surrounded by a group of maids, walked over with a smile.

No one present seemed surprised that Taiping was present at such a formal banquet.

Given how favored Princess Taiping was, no one would dare say anything even if she insisted on holding the banquet at her own princess residence.

Moreover, Princess Taiping had just lost her husband and was in a very bad mood; no one wanted to provoke her.

To everyone's surprise, was Taiping going to stand up for Li Xian?

But soon, everyone felt relieved.

Li Xian and Taiping are siblings born of the same mother. If Taiping doesn't stand up for Li Xian, is she going to help Wu Chengsi instead?
……

The moment Wu Chengsi saw Taiping appear, his expression turned extremely ugly.

He dared to provoke Li Xian, but he would never dare to provoke Taiping.

Especially Taiping, who had just lost her husband.

Because Empress Wu would stand on Princess Taiping's side without hesitation.

At this moment, Taiping walked straight to Li Xian's side and stood there, seemingly unintentionally forming a subtle alliance with Li Xian.

She first winked at Li Xian, then looked at Wu Chengsi, her sarcasm undisguised: "Cousin King Wei, the poem your disciple wrote is truly excellent, with ornate language, especially the words 'female ruler,' which sound so intimate and resounding."

"only……"

Taiping paused, then continued, "This Su Sheren keeps talking about a female ruler. Could it be that my mother, the emperor of the Great Zhou Dynasty, is different from other emperors throughout history? Otherwise, why does this Su Sheren insist on emphasizing 'female'?"

Li Xian was stunned.

Did you not tell Taiping about your discussion with Liu Jianjun?

How did Taiping know to start from this point?
But soon, Li Xian noticed Taiping's slightly raised chin and suddenly realized something.

This wasn't because Taiping knew about her and Liu Jianjun's plan, but rather...

That's exactly what Taiping thought!

That's why she was particularly sensitive to the "female ruler" in Su Shi's poem.

As for the reason for this phenomenon...

Without even thinking, it's clear that Shangguan Wan'er's "boxing" admonition method worked.

For a moment, Li Xian looked at his completely different younger sister and didn't know what to do.

Similarly, Wu Chengsi's smile suddenly froze.

Before he could respond, Taiping had already turned towards the throne, curtsied, and said in a clear voice, "Mother, your son greets you!"

When the Emperor of Great Zhou, seated on his throne, looked at Taiping, his gaze softened noticeably.

She nodded slightly, a gentle smile on her lips, her voice softer than when she addressed the courtiers: "Rise, Taiping, come to my side."

This natural intimacy was an honor that other princes and princesses, and even Wu Chengsi and other nephews of the Wu family, could hardly attain.

Princess Taiping's appearance instantly changed the atmosphere of the room.

Taiping responded with a "Yes, Mother!" and walked briskly to the seat below the imperial steps, close to the Empress's private seat. However, she did not sit down immediately, but turned around and looked at Wu Chengsi and Li Xian again, and continued, "What I just heard is that the poems of my cousin Wei Wang are certainly good, but the words 'female ruler' sound noble, but they always make people feel that... the scope is a bit small."

"It was as if my mother, the dignified emperor of the Great Zhou Dynasty, was ultimately different from all the men of previous dynasties, and had to be distinguished by the word 'woman'."

These words, like an icicle, instantly pierced through the lingering atmosphere of flattery.

The man who had been feeling slightly smug because of the cheers from the crowd, Su Sheren, suddenly lost all color in his face.

Taiping's words were light and airy, yet they carried a weight heavier than a thousand pounds!
This is no longer a judgment on the quality of poetry and prose, but a direct accusation that the poet's intention to praise the emperor was impure, and even implies that he "limited the emperor's vision"!

"Your Highness...Your Highness! I...I dare not!" Su Sheren's voice trembled, his legs went weak, and he could no longer stand. With a "thud," he knelt heavily towards the throne, his forehead pressed tightly against the cold floor, his body trembling with extreme fear.

"Your Majesty! Your Majesty, please understand!" he cried, almost sobbing. "Your humble servant... Your humble servant is only grateful for Your Majesty's kindness and only wants to do everything in his power to praise Your Majesty... There is absolutely no disrespect intended! The title of 'female ruler' has existed since ancient times. Your humble servant... Your humble servant is foolish and only feels that this title can highlight Your Majesty's unprecedented achievements. There is absolutely no intention to imply that Your Majesty is different from other emperors!"
"Your Majesty, I am ignorant and my words were inappropriate. I beg Your Highness's forgiveness! I beg Your Highness's forgiveness!"

He kowtowed repeatedly, while Wu Chengsi watched from the side with a livid face.

Su Sheren's disgraceful behavior also brought shame upon himself, but he dared not speak up to defend him for fear of getting burned.

The Great Zhou Emperor on his throne glanced indifferently at Su Sheren, but did not speak immediately.

This brief silence was nothing short of the cruelest torment for Su Sheren, who was kneeling on the ground.

Li Xian secretly gave Taiping a thumbs up in his heart.

This is a relentless pursuit to kill Wu Chengsi.

Of course, only Princess Taiping dared to say this in front of her mother. No one else, not even Li Xian himself, would have dared to say it outright.

But suddenly.

A sudden thought flashed through Li Xian's mind!
Taiping's words were a godsend!

By taking this step, she paved the perfect path for the poems she would write next! By continuing to write poems following the ideas provided by Taiping and ignoring her mother's female identity, it would not seem so abrupt or deliberate, and it could even achieve the effect of concealing one's shortcomings, as Liu Jianjun had mentioned!
Don't miss out!

Li Xian immediately stepped forward and spoke in a steady and respectful voice: "Mother, what Taiping said resonates deeply with your son. Mother, you have been ordained by Heaven to establish the Great Zhou Dynasty, a feat that surpasses all others in history. Your virtue and benevolence are far-reaching, and cannot be limited by ordinary gender. Your son is unworthy, but I would like to compose a poem to congratulate you, Mother, and also to congratulate our Great Zhou Dynasty!"

Having said that, he paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the pale-faced Wu Chengsi and the ashen-faced Su Sheren, before reciting aloud the poem he had already prepared, its clear verses echoing throughout the surroundings:

"The divine palace overlooks the purple sky, and the spirit bird rises from the highest heaven."

"Its wings cover the mountains and rivers, its sound resonates far and wide, reaching the sun and moon."

"Not dwelling in the shadow of ordinary trees, but setting its own standard in the highest heavens."

"His virtue and power benefit all regions; how could they be limited to just one dynasty?"

As soon as the poem was recited, the entire room fell into an eerie silence once again.

Compared to Su Sheren's poem, which is ornate but confined to the concept of "female ruler," Li Xian's poem is grand in scale and lofty in its imagery. It opens with "divine palace," "purple extreme," and "high heavens," directly placing the scene in the supreme celestial realm.

"Its wings cover the mountains and rivers, its voice shakes the sun and moon." The spirit bird in the poem is no longer a beautiful bird that relies on auspicious omens, but a supreme being with the great power to cover mountains and rivers and shake the sun and moon.

"Not resting in the shadow of ordinary trees, but standing tall in the heavens," further demonstrates its unparalleled status and self-confidence, transcending the mundane and standing out from the crowd.

The final line, “Virtue and might benefit all, how can it be limited to a single dynasty?” is like a grand bell, connecting the phoenix’s grace and might with the Mandate of Heaven. It implies that the new dynasty is not an ordinary change of dynasty, but rather one that is in accordance with the will of Heaven and possesses eternal legitimacy that transcends a single dynasty and benefits all.
The entire poem contains no words that refer to gender, nor does it specifically describe the appearance of the phoenix. Instead, it focuses on creating a supreme symbol that represents absolute power and destiny.

This perfectly matches the image of the Great Zhou emperor in his imperial robes, striving to project a gender-transcending imperial persona.

The entire hall fell silent for a moment.

Immediately, some veteran officials couldn't help but whisper their approval: "Excellent! What a spirit!" "'Virtue and power benefit all directions,' this is truly a wonderful saying!"

Even some officials from Wu Chengsi's faction nodded in agreement.

The difference in quality is obvious and self-evident.

Li Xian was secretly quite pleased with himself.

Although such poems of praise only require beautiful language, under the help of Taiping and the pressure of Wu Chengsi, he actually performed exceptionally well and produced a poem that can be considered a top-notch work among this type of poem.

Li Xian even noticed that his mother, sitting upright on the throne, had her lips twitch almost imperceptibly.

“What a fine line, ‘Virtue and might extend to all, not just to Yi’s reign.’” She spoke slowly, her voice calm and even, yet it set the tone for this contest. “Prince Pei’s poem is grand in spirit and deeply resonates with me. It deserves to be rewarded.”

……

(End of this chapter)