Chapter 550 - 364: Dark Tides Surge
Li Tai cracked a slight smile, "Since the gentleman is so aware of current affairs, this prince is very pleased."
"May I have my clothes back?" Sang Chen looked up and said.
"Of course, you may, but this prince is quite curious, what evidence does the gentleman have for claiming that this prince will never attain that position?" Li Tai had every reason to worry; Sang Chen’s emphatic oath was surely not a rash declaration made without confidence.
Sang Chen turned his face away. "I do not wish to speak of it now."
Sang Chen’s stubborn nature was well known in Chang’an. Li Tai knew that he had pushed him to the brink today, and he could not continue to use forceful methods, lest he lose more than he gained. Thus, he smiled and said, "If the gentleman does not wish to speak, then do not. This prince also has to attend the court tomorrow. Why doesn’t the gentleman stay here for the night and leave with me tomorrow morning? What do you think?"
Sang Chen, seemingly reluctant to speak further, was actually preoccupied with other thoughts.
State Sima Su Xu advised Li Tai to learn from the ancient benevolent kings and invite guests to compile books, so Li Tai submitted a memorial to that effect.
The Emperor was very pleased to hear this and gave his full support. This "Comprehensive Gazetteer" was to be compiled according to the current arrangements of the Governor’s jurisdictions and the establishment of states and counties. Drawing broadly on historical records and geographical treatises, and seeking information on previous such works and ancient accounts, it would include detailed records of the evolution of political divisions, mountains, rivers, produce, historical sites, customs, notable people, and other such matters. It could be regarded as a major work combining geography and literature. Once completed, it would undoubtedly be another significant achievement.
Luring guests to compile the "Comprehensive Gazetteer" was actually just a pretext. In reality, it facilitated Li Tai’s establishment of his own power base. Different from Li Ke, who excelled in both literary and martial pursuits, having participated in military campaigns in his youth and performed exceptionally well—thus commanding great respect within the military—Li Tai knew that if Li Ke genuinely decided to raise an army in rebellion, many would answer his call.
Facing such a situation, Li Tai had to establish his own prestige and power base. Mere scholarly reputation would not suffice. The "Comprehensive Gazetteer" had significant implications for the entire layout and planning of the Great Tang, enough to showcase his talent for governance. It would also attract a group allied to his cause, indeed killing two birds with one stone.