Chapter 671

In the tenth year of Yuanchu. At this time, the Li Kingdom was prosperous and flourishing. Foreign states all submitted to its rule, and peace reigned throughout the realm. The government was enlightened, the people lived in contentment and pursued their vocations with joy, and society was at harmony. By this time, Zhao Yan had long passed his thirtieth year. Over the years, many had sought to become his disciples—some out of admiration for his talent, for there was no one in all the land who did not know of Grand Secretary Zhao's abilities. Simple and catchy nursery rhymes praising Zhao Yan's achievements could be heard in every street and alley. As the years passed, Emperor Deming came to value Zhao Yan all the more. At first, the Emperor had worried that Zhao Yan's achievements would overshadow his own and threaten his position, but as time revealed true character, he slowly became certain that Zhao Yan had no craving for power. He seemed to be an "out-of-place" man who simply wanted to do practical, meaningful work for the common people.