Chapter 52 Wu Zetian Enters the Eastern Palace

Chapter 52 Wu Zetian Enters the Eastern Palace

In the spring of the tenth year of the Zhenguan era, Chang'an was brimming with vitality. Having withstood the test of floods and the subsequent reconstruction, the Tang Dynasty had not only recovered its strength but also undergone a complete transformation in many aspects.

The most obvious changes were seen in water conservancy projects. Last winter and this spring, the Ministry of Works organized craftsmen from all over the country to learn cement application techniques. After the start of spring, dozens of water conservancy projects started simultaneously from Guanzhong to Jiangnan. Cement-cast dikes, sluices, and canals sprang up like mushrooms after rain, and the gray-white buildings stood out conspicuously in the fields.

"Your Majesty, please look, this is the newly built water conservancy hub in Yangzhou." Wang Yi pointed to the sand table model in the imperial study. "All three sluice gates are made of cement and, with the newly designed hoist, can precisely control the water level, storing water during droughts and releasing floodwaters during floods."

Li Shimin examined it carefully and nodded repeatedly: "Good, good. With this, the flood problem in Yangzhou can be largely solved."

“It’s not just Yangzhou.” Wang Yi pointed to other locations on the sand table, “Jingzhou, Yuezhou, and Ezhou, the main dangerous sections of the dikes are all under renovation. It is expected that the key dikes in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River will be reinforced within three years.”

She paused, then continued, "Moreover, the application of cement is not limited to water conservancy. I have discussed with the Directorate of Works that we can try using cement to build roads."

"Build roads?" Li Shimin raised an eyebrow.

“Yes.” Wang Yi unfolded the blueprints. “Traditional dirt roads are muddy in the rain and dusty in the sun, making transportation inefficient. If we pave the road with cement, it will be flat and sturdy, unaffected by the weather, which can greatly improve the transportation speed.”

She marked several lines on the blueprint: "We can start with the official road from Chang'an to Luoyang as a pilot project. This is the most important transportation artery of the Tang Dynasty, and the benefits will be most obvious if the renovation is successful."

Li Shimin pondered. He knew the importance of transportation to the empire—the transmission of government orders, troop movements, and the transport of supplies all depended on roads. If there truly were a road surface that was unaffected by weather and could be traveled in all weather conditions, it would greatly improve administrative efficiency and military mobility.

"What about the cost?" he asked the crucial question.

“It’s higher than traditional rammed earth roads, but much lower than stone slab roads.” Wang Yi was prepared for this. “Moreover, cement roads have low maintenance costs and a long service life. All things considered, it’s actually more economical.”

She added, "More importantly, once the roads are open, commerce will flourish. Goods will turn around faster, merchants will profit more, and the imperial court's commercial taxes will also increase."

These words moved Li Shimin. Since ascending the throne, he had been encouraging commerce because commercial prosperity meant a full treasury and a wealthy populace.

"We can try it out first," Li Shimin finally said. "Let's start with the section from Chang'an to Baqiao. If it works well, then we can expand it further."

"Your concubine obeys the decree."

The pilot project for cement road construction was quickly launched. Wang Yi selected the most elite craftsmen from the Imperial Workshop and invited officials knowledgeable in road engineering from the Ministry of Works to form a special construction team.

The construction site was chosen on the official road east of Chang'an. This section of road connects Chang'an and Luoyang, with frequent traffic, and is in dire need of improvement.

On the day construction began, many people gathered to watch. They watched with curiosity as the craftsmen cleared the roadbed, laid a layer of sand and gravel, and then mixed a grayish-white slurry and poured it onto the road surface.

"What's this new gadget?" an old farmer asked.

"They say it's called 'cement,' used for building dams, and it's really strong," someone nearby answered.

"Use this for road construction? Will that even work?"

"Who knows? We'll see."

Three days later, the road surface had solidified and was passable. The craftsmen removed the barriers, revealing a smooth, gray-white road surface to the public.

As the first carriage passed by, the driver was surprised to find that the wheels barely bumped and the speed was much faster than on the dirt road. He couldn't help but whip the horse to speed up, and the carriage drove smoothly, raising very little dust.

"It's really different!" the onlookers exclaimed.

The news spread quickly, and merchants from Chang'an flocked to the city. They astutely recognized the value of this new road surface—reduced transportation time and cargo damage meant increased profits.

A few days later, more than a dozen businesses jointly petitioned the imperial court, requesting that it expedite the promotion of cement roads, and they were willing to donate part of the cost.

When Li Shimin saw the memorial, he smiled and said to Wang Yi, "You see, merchants are the most shrewd. They calculate things the most clearly."

Wang Yi also smiled: "This is a good thing. If the people are willing to participate, the pressure on the court will be much less."

“Then let’s speed up the promotion,” Li Shimin decided. “First, we’ll build the official road from Chang’an to Luoyang, and then we’ll build the trunk lines to all the major prefectures.”

The widespread adoption of cement roads spurred the development of another industry—horse-drawn carriage manufacturing.

Traditional horse-drawn carriages were designed to be heavy and sturdy to adapt to bumpy dirt roads, but they were slow and had limited load capacity. Now that there are flat cement roads, it is possible to design lighter and faster horse-drawn carriages.

Wang Yi "accidentally" drew a few sketches of improved carriages: a more aerodynamic body, a more flexible steering mechanism, a more comfortable suspension system...

The craftsmen in the Imperial Workshop were overjoyed and quickly produced a prototype. The new carriage traveled on cement roads at nearly twice the speed of the traditional carriage, and its comfort was greatly improved.

Nobles and wealthy merchants in Chang'an rushed to place orders, and for a time, the new-style carriage became a symbol of status and taste.

“Master, what do you think of this modification?” An old craftsman came to Wang Yi with a new design drawing. “We added the kind of ‘ball bearings’ you mentioned to the axle, and the steering is indeed much easier.”

Wang Yi examined it carefully and nodded approvingly: "Very good. However, the material of the ball bearings must be carefully selected to be wear-resistant. In addition, the fit between the axle and the wheel hub must be precise to reduce friction."

“I understand,” the old craftsman said respectfully. “We have tested several materials and found the most suitable one.”

Looking at these focused craftsmen, Wang Yi was filled with admiration. The people of this era possess astonishing creativity and execution; given the right guidance, they can create amazing results.

---

While Wang Yi was busy improving roads and transportation, good news also came from agricultural reforms.

After more than two years of promotion, improved agricultural tools and farming techniques have been widely adopted in the Guanzhong region, resulting in a stable increase in grain yield of 20% to 30%. The Sinong Temple then began to promote these techniques to areas east of the Yellow River, Hebei, and Henan provinces.

Even more encouraging is the initial success of the seed selection and breeding program. After several rounds of selection, several disease-resistant and high-yielding wheat and rice varieties have been developed. Although they have not yet been widely promoted, the results from the experimental fields are encouraging.

During this period, Li Chengqian was in charge of promoting agricultural reforms. He frequently went to the countryside, communicated with farmers, understood their practical difficulties, and solved problems. In this process, he not only learned agricultural knowledge but also gained a deeper understanding of the meaning of "the people are the foundation of the state."

Once, after returning from an inspection tour of Hedong, he reported to Li Shimin: "Father, the local farmers have reported that the improved farming tools are indeed useful, but some poor farmers cannot afford them. I suggest that the government provide loans or allow them to exchange old tools for new ones to alleviate their burden."

Li Shimin looked at his son with satisfaction: "The fact that you thought of these things shows that you really put your heart into it. Approved, then do as you say."

"Thank you, Father Emperor." Li Chengqian bowed, hesitated for a moment, and then said, "Your subject has another matter... concerning Master Wang."

"oh?"

“During my recent trip to the countryside, I heard many people praising Wang Zhenren,” Li Chengqian said, carefully choosing his words. “They said that her improvements to farming tools, flood control, and promotion of new roads are all real merits. I feel that… my previous view of Zhenren was somewhat biased.”

Li Shimin smiled: "It's good that you recognize this. Wang Zhenren is indeed different from ordinary women; she has the people and the world in her heart. Such a person deserves respect."

"Your subject understands," Li Chengqian said solemnly.

When the conversation between father and son reached Wang Yi's ears, she merely smiled faintly. The Crown Prince's change of heart was within her expectations. When a person truly immerses themselves in the lives of ordinary people and understands their hardships, they will naturally understand what is truly important.

And she continued to carry out her plans.

After the successful application of cement, she began to think about the next technological breakthrough—steel.

Iron smelting technology in the Tang Dynasty was already quite advanced, but there was still room for improvement. Wang Yi recalled the basics of modern steel industry: blast furnace design, blast furnace technology, fuel improvement, alloy addition...

She dared not achieve perfection in one step, but she could guide the craftsmen to make gradual improvements.

She started by improving the blower equipment. Traditional bellows were inefficient, so she designed a more efficient wooden bellows, which, when used with a waterwheel, could continuously provide strong air and increase the furnace temperature.

Then there was the issue of fuel. During the Tang Dynasty, charcoal was commonly used for iron smelting, so she tried introducing coal. However, coal had a high sulfur content, resulting in brittle and easily broken iron. Through experimentation, she discovered that first refining the coal into coke could effectively reduce the sulfur content.

There are also furnace design modifications, refractory material improvements, molten iron treatment... Each of these is a long-term task that requires extensive experimentation.

Wang Yi was not in a hurry for quick results; she simply provided a direction and let the craftsmen explore it. She knew that technological innovation required time, accumulation, and the efforts of generations.

All she could do was sow the seeds and patiently wait for them to sprout.

---

In the autumn of the tenth year of the Zhenguan era, the cement road from Chang'an to Luoyang was fully completed. The news spread, and the whole country rejoiced.

After all, it was a key project personally designated by Emperor Taizong of Tang (Li Shimin). With donations of money and materials from private merchants, the imperial court only needed to provide manpower and cement to build a cement road quickly.

This 800-li-long road completely transformed transportation between the two capitals. Previously, it would take five or six days for a fast horse to travel from Chang'an to Luoyang, and half a month for an ordinary caravan. Now, horse-drawn carriages can travel day and night on the smooth cement road, arriving in just three days.

Merchants cheered, as this meant their goods could be turned over several times faster, greatly increasing their profits.

The imperial court also benefited greatly. Government orders were transmitted more quickly, troop movements were more convenient, and the transportation of supplies was more efficient. Li Shimin even considered that if there were future wars on the borders, troops and provisions could be mobilized even faster.

To celebrate the completion of this "Number One Road Under Heaven," Li Shimin decided to personally inspect it. He set off from Chang'an with Wang Yi, Crown Prince Li Chengqian, and some court officials, traveling eastward.

The convoy traveled on the smooth cement road, barely feeling any bumps. Li Shimin sat in the new-style carriage, watching the fields and villages rushing past the window, filled with emotion.

“Wang Yi, do you see that?” He pointed out the window. “This road will change the Tang Dynasty.”

Wang Yi nodded: "Yes, Your Majesty. But this is only the beginning."

"start?"

"With roads open, the flow of people, goods, and information will accelerate," Wang Yi said slowly. "Commerce will flourish, there will be more exchanges between different regions, and new technologies will spread faster. In just a few years, the Tang Dynasty will have a completely new look."

She paused, then continued, "Moreover, with roads open, the imperial court's control over local areas will be strengthened. With smooth government orders and effective oversight, corruption will find it harder to hide."

These words struck a chord with Li Shimin. As an emperor, his greatest concern was the central government's control over the local areas. If the roads were clear, the court's reach could extend to every corner of the empire.

“You’re right.” Li Shimin squeezed her hand. “This road is not only a vital transportation route, but also a path to governing the country.”

When the imperial procession arrived in Luoyang, it was warmly welcomed by the people. They flocked to see the emperor's carriage and marveled at the magical road.

During his stay in Luoyang, Wang Yi visited the local government-built shipyard. A new generation of ocean-going vessels is under construction there, with larger hulls and more robust structures, in preparation for another voyage next spring.

"Our targets this time are the Lion Kingdom and India," the shipyard manager reported to Wang Yi. "If all goes well, we plan to establish a permanent trading post in India to purchase local spices, gems, and ivory on a long-term basis."

"Very good." Wang Yi nodded, "But we must be careful. Long-distance ocean voyages are risky, so we must be fully prepared."

"Rest assured, we have made detailed plans according to your navigation guide. Moreover, this fleet is equipped with the latest improved compasses and navigation instruments, which greatly enhances safety."

Looking at the massive ship under construction in the dock, Wang Yi felt a surge of pride. Land routes were extending, sea routes were expanding, and although the Tang Dynasty's borders remained unchanged on the map, its actual influence was spreading far and wide.

This is what she wanted to see—an open, progressive, and prosperous Tang Dynasty.

After the inspection tour, the convoy returned to Chang'an. On the way, Li Shimin suddenly asked, "Wang Yi, you have done so much for the Tang Dynasty, do you have any wishes?"

Wang Yi thought for a moment, then said softly, "My wish is very simple—may the Tang Dynasty prosper forever, and may the people live in peace and happiness. May Your Majesty enjoy good health and long life. May...I be able to accompany Your Majesty and witness this great era."

These words were half true and half false, but they were touching enough. Li Shimin embraced her and remained silent for a long time.

Wang Yi leaned on his shoulder, gazing at the fleeting scenery outside the window, but her mind was thinking about things further ahead.

The roads are built, the ships are constructed, agriculture has been improved, and technology has been innovated... What's the next step?

Perhaps it's time to consider deeper reforms—in education, healthcare, law, administration...

Furthermore, she has already spent quite a while in the Tang Dynasty. It's time to consider whether to bring her modern daughters over to visit.

These questions swirled in her mind, but she wasn't in a hurry. She knew there was still plenty of time, and the game was far from over.

She possesses enough patience and wisdom to play this grand game that transcends time and space step by step.

As the sun set, the shadows of the convoy stretched long on the concrete road. Ahead, the outline of Chang'an City was already faintly visible.

A new day is coming to an end, but a new journey is yet to come.

As the convoy entered Chang'an, it was already dusk. The palace gates were unusually lively, with a group of girls dressed in various palace costumes queuing to enter the palace. Most of them were thirteen or fourteen years old, with innocent faces and eyes that showed both anticipation and trepidation.

Wang Yi saw this scene through the carriage window and his heart stirred. Calculating the time, it was the tenth year of Zhenguan... Historically, Wu Zetian entered the palace in this year, at the age of fourteen.

"Those are..." Wang Yi asked the palace attendants, feigning ignorance.

"Reporting to Your Excellency, these are newly selected ladies-in-waiting who entered the palace today." The palace attendant replied respectfully. "According to custom, after entering the palace, the ladies-in-waiting first learn the palace rules in the Inner Court, and then Her Majesty the Empress arranges their placement."

Wang Yi nodded and asked no further questions. But he was already making quick calculations in his mind.

Wu Zetian—or rather, the current Wu Meiniang—is about to enter this deep palace. Historically, she was first a concubine, then a nun, then entered the palace as a concubine, and finally became empress and empress, changing the Tang Dynasty to the Zhou Dynasty. Wang Yi was all too familiar with this legend.

But history has changed. Empress Zhangsun is still alive, and although she is frail, with her care, she can live for many more years. Li Zhi is still a 10-year-old child, and it is impossible for him to develop feelings for Wu Zetian as he did in history.

So, what kind of life trajectory will Wu Zetian take?

Upon returning to Qixia Garden, Wang Yi's first act was to review the register of imperial concubines. Now, as the "Protector of the Nation" and deeply trusted by the Emperor and Empress, accessing these records was not difficult for her.

The roster arrived quickly. Wang Yi flipped through it rapidly and found the name on the third page: Wu Chongniang, a native of Wenshui, Bingzhou; her father, Wu Shihuo, was the Governor of Jingzhou and Duke of Ying. She was fourteen years old.

It really was Wu Zetian. But right now, she was just Wu Mei, an ordinary young lady from an official family.

Wang Yi closed the register and fell into deep thought. A woman like Wu Zetian, with exceptional intelligence and ambition, was like a restless seed planted deep within the palace. If she were allowed to follow the historical trajectory, even without Li Zhi, she might have distinguished herself through other means.

However, from another perspective, if such talent can be used in the right places, it will be a powerful asset.

Li Chengqian… A thought flashed through Wang Yi’s mind. Historically, Li Chengqian was ultimately deposed, partly due to his own character flaws, but also because he lacked truly capable advisors. Most of the officials in the Eastern Palace were rule-abiding, either sycophantic or rigidly dogmatic; none could truly help him see the situation clearly or plan for the long term.

What if there were a woman like Wu Zetian to assist me?

Wang Yi understood Wu Zetian's methods—she was adept at political maneuvering, skilled at recognizing and employing talent, and possessed exceptional political acumen. If her talents could be channeled into the right path, helping the Crown Prince consolidate his position and learn the ways of governing, perhaps Li Chengqian's fate could be changed.

More importantly, if Wu Zetian became an important figure by the Crown Prince's side, her future ambitions would have a legitimate outlet—not to become empress herself, but to realize her political aspirations by assisting the Crown Prince and, in the future, the Emperor.

This is far better than letting her struggle for survival in the deep palace and ultimately embark on that bloody path.

Of course, this plan was extremely risky. Wu Zetian was not an easy person to control, and if her ambition got out of control, the consequences would be unimaginable. But Wang Yi believed that as long as the arrangements were made properly and there were strong checks and balances, the risks could be controlled.

"Someone come here." Wang Yi summoned his trusted palace maid. "Go and find out where this group of young ladies is staying. There is a particularly beautiful woman among them. Her surname seems to be Wu. She comes from Bingzhou. How is she being placed and how is she doing?"

"yes."

Three days later, Wang Yi received detailed intelligence.

Wu Mei was placed in the North Courtyard of the Imperial Palace, where she lived with more than a dozen other young ladies-in-waiting. She was exceptionally beautiful and stood out among them, but she was not ostentatious; instead, she was humble and polite. The female official who taught her palace etiquette spoke highly of her, saying that she was "intelligent, studious, and well-mannered."

Having obtained the answer she wanted, Wang Yi did not immediately intervene in the Crown Prince's selection of a consort. She knew this matter was sensitive and required caution. More importantly, she needed to understand the current situation first.

Through the palace servants and newly established information network in Qixia Garden, Wang Yi quickly grasped the situation:

Li Chengqian married last year. His Crown Princess, Lady Su, comes from a prestigious family and is dignified and virtuous. Her relationship with the Crown Prince is relatively good. However, according to royal custom, in addition to his principal wife, the Crown Prince will also have concubines such as Liangdi, Liangyuan, and Chenghui. These positions are not only related to the Crown Prince's life, but also to the future balance of power in the court.

After Empress Zhangsun's health improved, she did begin to consider enriching the Eastern Palace for the Crown Prince. However, her standards were relatively traditional—she valued family background and virtuous character, while intelligence and strategy were not her primary considerations.

The selection of imperial concubines for this year has begun, with daughters of officials from various regions arriving in the capital to learn palace etiquette in preparation for selection. Wu Meiniang (Empress Wu Zetian) should be among these candidates. According to historical records, she will officially enter the palace next year and be granted the title of "Talented Lady".

Wang Yi pondered for a long time. She needed to influence the selection criteria without arousing suspicion.

A few days later, while chatting with Li Shimin, she casually mentioned, "Your Majesty, I heard that the selection of imperial concubines for this year has already begun. I wonder if the Empress has made any arrangements at the Eastern Palace?"

Li Shimin was reviewing memorials, not even looking up: "Guanyinbi mentioned wanting to select a few concubines for Chengqian. What's wrong?"

"I just suddenly realized that His Highness the Crown Prince is becoming increasingly mature in participating in court affairs and handling practical matters," Wang Yi said, carefully choosing his words. "When he inherits the throne, those around him must not only be virtuous, but also knowledgeable and wise, able to assist His Highness in handling complex matters."

Li Shimin put down his pen, looked up at her, and asked, "You mean...?"

“I am reminded of a story in the history books,” Wang Yi said slowly. “If an emperor has a wise and sensible woman by his side, it is a blessing for both the country and the family.”

She paused, then continued, "His Highness the Crown Prince will be governing an increasingly prosperous and complex Tang Dynasty. If the women of the Eastern Palace only know how to embroider and compose poetry, I'm afraid... they will find it difficult to truly become His Highness's assistant."

Li Shimin seemed to be deep in thought. These words struck a chord with him. He knew all too well the difficulty of governing a country, and also the importance of a virtuous and capable wife. Empress Zhangsun had played an irreplaceable role in his seizure of the throne, his ascension to the throne, and his governance of the country.

"You mean, this time when selecting people for Chengqian, we should focus on talent and intelligence?"

"Talent and character are equally important," Wang Yi said. "After all, Chengqian will become the emperor in the future. The women in the harem are ignorant and only know how to indulge in poetry and romance. How can they assist him?"

Li Shimin nodded: "That makes sense. I will discuss it with Guanyinbi."

Wang Yi knew that this was enough. With Li Shimin's political acumen, he would naturally think deeper—choosing a consort for the crown prince was not only a family matter, but also a matter of state. Choosing the right person could stabilize the Eastern Palace and balance the court; choosing the wrong person could sow the seeds of future trouble.

Sure enough, a few days later, Li Shimin had a long talk with Empress Zhangsun. The specific content is unknown, but afterwards, the selection criteria quietly changed.

The original assessment, which only focused on family background, appearance, and needlework, now included questions on "classical and historical knowledge" and "current affairs and policy discussions." The young women were required to express their opinions on simple political issues, such as "how to appease the people in the event of a disaster" and "how to view the relationship between agriculture and commerce."

Although the questions were very basic, they were enough to filter out those women who were intelligent and insightful.

Wang Yi did not directly participate in the selection, but she collected information about the candidates' performance through the palace servants of Qixia Garden. She was looking not only for Wu Zetian, but also for other women with potential.

Soon, several names stood out:

Zheng, a daughter of the Zheng family of Xingyang, was seventeen years old. She was well-versed in the classics and history and had unique insights into agricultural improvement. She believed that "agriculture is the foundation of the country and should be assisted by science and technology"—a very insightful statement.

The daughter of the Lu family of Fanyang, at the age of sixteen, was skilled in arithmetic and had a thorough understanding of the maritime trade policies of the Maritime Trade Office. She proposed that "porcelain and silk should be exchanged for spices and gems, which would benefit the country and the people."

The daughter of the Xiao family of Lanling, at the age of eighteen, was skilled in calligraphy and painting. But what was even more remarkable was her knowledge of law, believing that "law is the instrument for governing the country, and it should be simple and fair."

And then there's... Lady Wu, daughter of Wu Shihuo, the governor of Jingzhou. She's fourteen years old, the youngest, but her performance is the most outstanding.

According to reports from palace servants, Wu Zetian answered questions on classics and history fluently, especially demonstrating profound insights into governance principles found in the *Records of the Grand Historian* and the *Book of Han*. In her policy discussions, she proposed the idea of ​​"encouraging agriculture and sericulture, reducing taxes, and increasing reserves to fill granaries and prepare for floods and droughts," and she also specifically mentioned the benefits of modern agricultural tools and cement-based water conservancy projects.

What caught Wang Yi's attention even more was the confidence and sharpness that Wu Meiniang displayed during the assessment—although she tried to conceal it, her unique sharpness, unlike that of an ordinary young lady, was still faintly visible.

"It really was her." Wang Yi looked at the record and realized.

Historically, Wu Zetian entered the palace at the age of fourteen, initially as a concubine and not favored. However, her intelligence and ambition gradually emerged in the deep palace, eventually leading her to become an empress.

Now, history has changed. Empress Zhangsun is alive, Emperor Gaozong is still young, and Wu Zetian entered the palace earlier. More importantly—Wang Yi decided to guide her onto a different path.

A few days later, Wang Yi "accidentally" encountered the young women who were learning palace etiquette in the Imperial Garden. She spoke briefly with them as the Protector of the Nation.

When it was Wu Meiniang's turn, Wang Yi asked her a few more questions: "I heard you have some insights into agricultural improvement?"

Wu Meiniang bowed respectfully: "Reporting to the Immortal, my father is serving in Jingzhou, and I have witnessed the hardships of the people's labor. I have heard that the court is promoting new agricultural tools and improving water conservancy, and I deeply feel that this is a move that benefits the country and the people."

"So, besides farm tools and irrigation systems, what else do you think can be improved?"

After a moment's thought, Wu Meiniang said, "I believe that storage is also very important. In years of good harvest, if the grain is not properly stored, it is easy for it to mold and spoil. In years of famine, if there are no sufficient reserves, the people are likely to suffer from hunger."

A look of admiration flashed in Wang Yi's eyes. This question wasn't within the scope of the assessment, but the fact that Wu Meiniang could think of it immediately showed that she was indeed intelligent.

"Well said." Wang Yi nodded. "What's your name?"

"My name is Wu, and my given name is Chongniang."

“Insect Girl…” Wang Yi smiled, “Your name is a bit too weak. I think you’re quite beautiful. Would you mind changing your name to Meiniang?”

Upon hearing this, Wu Meiniang quickly bowed and expressed her gratitude. Everyone in the palace knew how favored Wang Yi was; now that she had received a name from him, no one in the palace would dare bully her because of it. "Meiniang thanks the Immortal for bestowing this name!"

In just a few words, Wang Yi had already made an impression on Wu Zetian. And for Wang Yi, that was enough—she had confirmed her target and given the other party a signal: I've noticed you.

The next question is how to arrange it.

Wang Yi did not directly recommend anyone to Li Shimin or Empress Zhangsun. She knew that, given Wu Zetian's performance, she would naturally be on the shortlist. What she needed to do was exert some influence at crucial moments.

The opportunity came soon.

After a palace banquet, Li Shimin chatted with Wang Yi and mentioned the selection of a consort for the crown prince: "Guanyinbi has prepared a list for me to look at. I think there are a few good ones, especially that Wu woman. Although she is young, she is very insightful."

Wang Yi's heart skipped a beat, but his face remained impassive: "Does Your Majesty think Lady Wu is suitable for the Eastern Palace?"

“She is suitable, and she is not suitable,” Li Shimin pondered. “She is intelligent and insightful, which are advantages. But judging from her words and actions, she is quite sharp and may not be someone who is content to stay at home. What the Eastern Palace needs is a woman who can assist the Crown Prince and also be obedient and docile.”

This was exactly the reaction Wang Yi had anticipated. Li Shimin could see Wu Meiniang's talent, but he also saw her restlessness. Historically, although Li Shimin admired Wu Zetian's intelligence, he was also wary of her and never gave her a prominent position.

“Your Majesty’s concerns are reasonable,” Wang Yi followed his words. “However, I believe that while sharpness can be honed, wisdom is difficult to cultivate. The country that His Highness the Crown Prince will govern in the future will require all kinds of talents. If the Eastern Palace could have a woman of extraordinary insight to assist him, it would not be a bad thing.”

She paused, then continued, "Moreover, Lady Wu is young and has great potential. If she receives proper guidance, she may very well become a virtuous and capable wife to the Crown Prince."

"A good teacher?" Li Shimin raised an eyebrow. "You mean...?"

“Her Majesty the Empress is the best teacher.” Wang Yi smiled. “If Wu’s daughter enters the Eastern Palace, Her Majesty the Empress can personally teach her, so that she understands what is right and wrong and what is proper conduct.”

This was a clever way of putting it. It recommended Wu Zetian while simultaneously shifting the responsibility of her upbringing to Empress Zhangsun. And Empress Zhangsun, for the sake of her son's future, would naturally do her best to educate him—if she agreed to let Wu Zetian enter the Eastern Palace.

Li Shimin pondered for a long time: "This matter... I will think about it again."

Wang Yi knew she couldn't push too hard. She changed the subject at the right moment, talking about other things.

But the seed had already been sown. Based on her understanding of Li Shimin, she knew that this emperor would weigh the pros and cons and ultimately make the decision most beneficial to the Tang Dynasty.

Sure enough, a few days later, Empress Zhangsun summoned Wang Yi.

"How is Your Excellency doing these days?" Empress Zhangsun asked gently.

"Thanks to Your Majesty's blessings, I am well," Wang Yi replied respectfully.

After exchanging a few pleasantries, Empress Zhangsun got to the point: "His Majesty and I discussed the selection of a consort for the Crown Prince, and he mentioned that the Master had spoken with some of the candidates. I wonder what the Master's opinion was of a few of them?"

This was a test, and also a request for advice. Wang Yi knew perfectly well what was going on.

"I only exchanged a few words with you and dare not make any comments," Wang Yi said humbly. "However, a few of the ladies-in-waiting have indeed left an impression on me."

She commented on them one by one: "The Zheng family's daughter is composed and knowledgeable about agriculture; the Lu family's daughter is shrewd and skilled in calculation; the Xiao family's daughter is dignified and knowledgeable in law..."

Finally, regarding Wu Zetian: "The youngest of the Wu family is the most intelligent. In conversation with her, I discovered that she is not only well-versed in the classics and history, but also has insights into current affairs. However... she is a bit too sharp and needs to be tempered."

This statement is objective and fair, acknowledging Wu Zetian's talent while also pointing out the problems.

Empress Zhangsun listened quietly, then suddenly asked, "In your opinion, which of these women is most suitable for the position of Crown Prince?"

This is a sensitive issue. Wang Yi pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "In my opinion, the women of the Eastern Palace should be like a hundred flowers in bloom, each with their own strengths. The composed can assist in domestic affairs, the shrewd can manage the family business, the dignified can raise children, and the intelligent can advise on government affairs."

She paused for a moment: "If we only choose one person, there will inevitably be some shortcomings. Only if several people complement each other can we achieve a more comprehensive result."

Empress Zhangsun's eyes flashed with admiration: "What you say is absolutely right. That's what I thought too."

The two chatted for a while longer before Wang Yi took her leave. As she walked out of the Lizheng Hall, she felt seven or eight parts confident.

Since Empress Zhangsun agreed with the idea of ​​"letting a hundred flowers bloom," Wu Zetian's chances of being selected increased significantly. After all, she was indeed the most "intelligent" of the candidates.

Things proceeded smoothly thereafter. After several rounds of selection, four new concubines were chosen for the Eastern Palace: Zheng, Lu, Xiao, and Wu.

Wu Zetian was the youngest and held the lowest rank, only a Chenghui. But that was enough—she entered the Eastern Palace and had the opportunity to get close to the Crown Prince.

Before the formal investiture, Empress Zhangsun summoned the four women and personally instructed them on palace etiquette and the proper conduct of imperial concubines. She was especially strict with Wu Meiniang.

"You are smart, which is a good thing," Empress Zhangsun said to Wu Meiniang. "But you must use your intelligence in the right place. The Eastern Palace is not the imperial court. You need to learn not only the classics and history, but also how to assist the Crown Prince, manage the internal affairs, and maintain harmony among the sisters."

Wu Meiniang respectfully replied, "This concubine will remember Your Majesty's teachings."

Upon learning the news, Wang Yi smiled slightly. History had changed; Wu Meiniang had embarked on a different path.

Now, it remains to be seen how this future empress will develop within the Eastern Palace. Wang Yi will continue to monitor the situation and, when necessary, provide appropriate guidance.

After all, a Wu Zetian who was both intelligent and knew how to conduct herself was beneficial to Li Chengqian and the future of the Tang Dynasty.

The future of the Tang Dynasty quietly began a new chapter amidst the calls of these young women entering the palace.

Wang Yi stood by the window of Qixia Garden, gazing in the direction of the East Palace, his heart calm yet expectant.

Another piece was placed on the board, and this game that transcends time and space is becoming more and more exciting.