The Great Idle Person of the Zhenguan Era.

Summary

Li Shi Min is uneasy about the recent supernatural events, specifically the incident at the Gao Family's mansion, which has sparked rumors of retribution. He fears that his own past actions, including the Xuanwu Gate Incident and the fratricide, may come back to haunt him. The emperor and his officials are trying to maintain a sense of normalcy, but the question of retribution lingers. Li Shi Min confides in Longsun Wuji, who suggests that the events may be the result of someone's plotting, but also acknowledges that the supernatural elements are difficult to explain. Li Shi Min considers issuing a self-criticism decree, but Changsun Wuji advises against it, citing the potential consequences for the Tang dynasty. Instead, Li Shi Min decides to exempt the Hedong Dao from corvée labor and taxes, and to reconsider the alliance between the imperial family and the Gao Family through marriage.

Full content