In Tingling Garden. 𝒻𝑟ℯℯ𝑤𝑒𝑏𝑛𝘰𝓋𝑒𝓁.𝒸𝑜𝘮

"Every river has different depths, curves, and rapids; the terrain’s highs and lows require firsthand understanding and investigation to create effective flood prevention measures. Simply blocking the water is not a long-term strategy; clearing riverways, dredging, diverting, and branching are the main focus."

Shen Chen’s rich voice resonated like music that lingers.

He was sitting on the window-side arhat bed, discussing the Min River flooding with Li Qian.

The flood involved many displaced people; it could not be delayed for a moment.

The Court had sent officials to fight the disaster, but they had no leads. The Emperor took the opportunity to test his eldest and second sons, wishing for them to display their talents and strategies.

This campaign was his father’s first comparison with himself, and Li Qian certainly did not want to lose: "Dredging, diverting, and branching... yes, I have thought of it as well, but I was uncertain. After hearing Xiao Chen’s insights today, I can validate my thoughts."

Shen Chen was indifferent to the Eldest Prince’s praise.

"The Eldest Prince is intelligent and resourceful. Whatever you want to do, go ahead with confidence. I am merely offering a small suggestion."

In the afternoon, the sun was not glaring.

His black long hair cascaded down as he sat by the window pick, with a gentle light highlighting his leisurely and elegant demeanor. Hidden within his phoenix eyes and brown pupils was a convincing strength.

Li Qian was slightly excited, feeling an indescribable emotion after Xiao Chen praised him. He confirmed again, his voice filled with joy: "Does Xiao Chen genuinely feel that I am intelligent, wise, and resourceful?"

Like a child asking for candy.

Shen Chen chuckled: "When did the Eldest Prince become so lacking in self-confidence?" Then he paused and said seriously: "If the Eldest Prince trusts me, this time you can seek help from the Gongsun Family for flood diversion."

"Oh, why do you say so?"

He explained in detail that the Gongsun Family was full of talented individuals; from the elderly to six-year-old children, all could make mechanical devices. In the path of flood diversion, many tools would be indispensable, and with help from the Gongsun Family, the task would yield twice the result with half the effort.

The two discussed until the sun set in the west.

In fact, it was mainly the other party speaking, with the Eldest Prince taking notes or agreeing with a line or two: "I agree." "This is good."...

After having dinner at Ye Mansion, Li Qian took Xiao Bai and rode back to the Imperial Palace by carriage.

The next day.

The Eldest Prince held a long map, marking the flooding locations and how to channel them effectively, using the help of the Gongsun Family. He explained thoroughly as if everything was within control.

Emperor Jingping nodded repeatedly, very pleased.

Li Changnian forced a smile and insincerely praised: "It seems Eldest Brother put in a lot of effort yesterday."

Taking the opportunity, Li Qian introduced his brilliant advisor with high praise before Emperor Jingping: "Actually, all this credit goes to my friend Shen Chen, Father. He is the apprentice of the State Preceptor, currently residing in Minister Ye Mansion, having already passed the child student and provincial exams, and he will take the advanced scholar exam next February. He has been plotting and calculating meticulously over the years with the State Preceptor. He is a great talent."

This was the first time he praised someone before his father.

When the Eldest Prince praised his friend, there was a hint of joy on his usually calm face, which Emperor Jingping noticed clearly. Both he and the State Preceptor shared a deep friendship despite their age difference, and the relationship between his eldest son and the State Preceptor’s Guanshan Disciple was good, which was quite nice.

He reached out his hand and patted the Eldest Prince on the shoulder: "Since he is a great talent, you must learn well from him and not be arrogant."

Li Qian agreed wholeheartedly.