The Tang Dynasty's First Wise King

That year, Li Er killed his brothers and imprisoned his father. Staring at the empty throne, he rubbed his hands together, eager to claim it. That year, Jieli heard of the coup, assembled his troops, and looked at the lax defenses with ambition in his heart. That year, Fu Yi’s memorial was approved, the independent cultivators were abolished, and he looked with satisfaction at the packed Buddhist temples. That same year, Li Tai’s soul traveled into the Zhenguan era. He got a cheat, then stared at his round belly in utter bewilderment. Who says becoming a prince means you have to fight for the throne? Li Tai doesn’t think so. He leaves the palace, finds some good land to farm, sets up a pill furnace and “refines” some herbs, then rounds up some artisans to work on infrastructure... Years later, people look back in amazement and realize that His Highness Prince Wei, who stayed away from the court, was the one praised for his virtue and wisdom. The hillsides turning green are planted with fine seeds bred by Prince Wei. The bustling clinics were founded with his investments. The roads stretching into the distance are cement roads built with investments from His Highness Prince Wei. The army is equipped with weapons he developed... Someone submits a memorial proposing that Prince Wei’s property be seized to fill the state treasury. Li Shimin: “Idiot! You’re just jealous of Qingque’s businesses. That’s my retirement fund! Rejected, rejected!” Someone advises that Prince Wei’s memorials should be scrutinized to give him a hard time. Li Chengqian: “Shut up! You’re just trying to drive a wedge between us. He’s my own younger brother. Get lost, now!” Someone sends a secret letter proposing that loyal officials and capable men be assembled to seize the throne when the opportunity arises. Li Tai: “Come here. Let’s see if I can beat you to death. What have I ever done to you that you want me to become emperor?”