Lan Tian knew at once that the order was wrong. How had he been placed at the head of the civil officials? After court was dismissed, he sought out Liu Bei alone and stated that he was willing to take the last seat.
Liu Bei smiled leisurely. "Whose merits are greatest—how could I not know? If I placed Ziyu in the last seat, how would the court officials view me?"
"But this servant's talents—"
Lan Tian tried to argue, but Liu Bei cut him off. "I know Ziyu has always been modest, but before, that was for enemy states to see. Now that the great order under Heaven has been settled, why must you wrong yourself?"
"Your Majesty, if you insist, then at the very least place the Chancellor ahead of me. Otherwise, this servant can only resign in shame at his own inadequacy." Seeing Liu Bei's determination, Lan Tian could only make some concessions.
"Kongming's talent is indeed rare in this world, but I believe your merits are greater. Why does Ziyu hold Kongming in such high esteem?" Liu Bei could not puzzle it out no matter how hard he thought.
Lan Tian wore a bitter expression. If you came from two thousand years in the future, you'd know why I insist on this so strongly. After considering it, he answered solemnly, "Guarding an empire is harder than winning one. Your Majesty understands Yi Province's complicated situation better than anyone. The Chancellor has managed it in perfect order, and he also organized the troops to flawlessly quell the Southern Barbarians' rebellion. Kongming is a great talent equally accomplished in letters and arms. Only he can lead the Great Han toward the light."
Liu Bei furrowed his brow and sighed. "Sometimes, I truly cannot understand you. Your learning and talent