Chapter 44: A Torch Shall Endure through the Disciple
Word Number：357
Author：闲穿径竹
Translator：
Release Time：2025-06-26
Geshu Han had long harboured disdain for Li Linfu’s honeyed words and ruthless politicking, resenting his stranglehold over court affairs. Sensing an opportunity, he deliberately added fuel to the fire. “Abu Si has always held Minister Li in the highest regard. It is common among the northern tribes to adopt high-ranking Chinese officials as their fathers. Did not the Prince of Dongping once take General Zhang, the Duke of Nanyang and Military Commissioner of Youzhou, as his sworn father? If Abu Si has done the same with Minister Li, it would hardly be surprising.” Emperor Xuanzong fell silent, lost in thought. From that day forth, his trust in Li Linfu began to wane. Since Nanzhao’s victory over the Tang army, the kingdom had persistently troubled the borders in its expansion efforts. Yang Guozhong, appointed to command the Jinnan military region, received a request from the people of Shu to assume the post and put an end to Nanzhao’s incursions. Li Linfu also supported this request, urging Yang to take up the position immediately. As Yang prepared for the journey, he came to the palace to seek an audience with Emperor Xuanzong, tearfully lamenting, “I know that my assignment to Shu will surely lead to my downfall at the hands of Li Youxiang!” Even the graceful Consort Yang interceded on his behalf. Emperor Xuanzong, ever calm, reassured him, “Go, and manage the military affairs of Shu. I shall await your return, and you will once again serve in the court.” At the time, Li Linfu, though over seventy, was gravely ill, his ability to manage the state affairs waning. As soon as Yang Guozhong arrived in Shu, Xuanzong dispatched an imperial envoy to summon him back. Yang Guozhong paid his respects to Li Linfu, who wept and said, “I am done for! You will certainly rise to the position of prime minister, but thereafter, the burdens of state will weigh heavily upon you!” A few days later, Li Linfu passed away. Emperor Xuanzong appointed Yang Guozhong as the Right Chancellor and concurrently made him the Minister of the Civil Department (which had formerly been the
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