He Is Crown Prince Chengqian

Historical records describe Chengqian as "intelligent and quick-witted," "exceptionally perceptive," and "dignified in appearance, benevolent and deeply filial."

After transmigrating into the body of Li Chengqian, the eldest legitimate son of Emperor Taizong of Tang, he initially watched the world around him as an outsider, examining the era with the objective, comprehensive perspective of an archaeologist.

But later, when his Grand Tutor's leg ailment made it difficult for him to walk, the old man spoke passionately and devotedly, imparting everything he knew to Chengqian and caring for him in every way. After his mentor passed away, Chengqian personally erected a monument in his honor.

When Chengqian fell ill, Taizong, who did not believe in Buddhism or Daoism, nevertheless summoned the Daoist priest Qin Ying to pray for him. Once Chengqian recovered, Taizong ordered three thousand people to become monks. At the time, he built the Xihua and Puguang temples and reduced or exempted people across the realm from criminal penalties and forced labor. When Chengqian fell ill again, Taizong issued an order summoning the Indian monk Prabhakara to pray for him.

When the emperor traveled on inspection tours, he still entrusted the crown prince with all the day-to-day affairs of state.

Looking back, Li Chengqian realized he could no longer stand apart.

He looked toward the officials at court, and toward the people of the realm. His brothers were eyeing one another hungrily, with great waves stirring beneath the surface.

Their factions colluded, and the two princes fought over the succession, locked in a bitter struggle. Li Chengqian could no longer remain an outsider, because now countless lives depended on him.

Later records state that Crown Prince Chengqian was deeply favored. Some people of the time slandered him as spoiled and tyrannical. When the prince fell from a horse and was left disabled, Taizong appointed Wei Zheng as his Grand Tutor to assist him, making clear that he had no intention of replacing the crown prince. After Chengqian recovered, Taizong reduced sentences and pardoned crimes, refuted the malicious rumors, and entrusted the prince with every matter of state, large and small, while he was away on a tour.

The young Crown Prince Chengqian was intelligent, benevolent, and compassionate, skilled at planning and decisive in action. He expanded the realm through military campaigns and brought other peoples under its rule; he governed the realm and won the people's hearts, becoming an enduring model for crown princes of later generations.

P.S. 1. Chengqian's legs are fine in this story, no different from anyone else's.

2. Chengqian remains the crown prince from beginning to end. This story does not involve him becoming emperor.

3. There will be domestic affairs, military conflicts, brothers turning against one another, and political scheming.

4. The author favors the crown prince.

Theme: Stay true to your original aspirations and work for the good of all.