Mythical Qin: I, Gao Yao, will never be a eunuch!

Chapter 1086 Gao Yao's Method: If you want to learn, then learn it properly!

“These ten people are the talented individuals I have recently recruited. They each have their own expertise—some are proficient in law, some are skilled in agriculture, some know military strategy, and some are knowledgeable in water management... Each of you can learn from them.”

Several children gathered around to look at the names, all of which were unfamiliar.

"Whoever can gain the unanimous approval of these ten people first will prove that they have enough potential and ability," Gao Yao continued. "At that time, I will officially announce their status."

He paused, his tone becoming serious: "But gaining their approval is by no means easy. It may take several years, or even more than a decade. You must be prepared for a long-term effort, and be prepared to face countless setbacks and trials. This path will be more difficult than you imagine."

Gao Lin was the first to kneel down: "Your subject is willing!"

Gao Zhe and Gao Ning followed closely behind: "Your subjects are willing!"

Gao Qun hesitated for a moment, then knelt down as well: "Your subject... is willing to give it a try."

Gao Yao looked at them, a complex expression flashing in his eyes.

He didn't choose veteran officials like Cao Can, Han Xin, and Xiao He as examiners for a complex reason. Those officials had followed him for many years and their influence in the court was deeply entrenched. If they were to examine the prince, factional considerations and personal relationships would inevitably become involved. These ten newly recruited talents, on the other hand, had not yet integrated into the court, had no ties to any faction, and, more importantly—they were summoned by the system and possessed absolute loyalty to Gao Yao.

They will conduct assessments fairly, without holding anything back, and will not lower their standards due to any concerns.

This is the fairest test.

If there is indeed a child who can gain the unanimous approval of all ten experts, it means that he truly has exceptional abilities. At that time, Gao Yao might really consider passing the position to him and retiring behind the scenes to enjoy a few days of leisure.

Of course, he knew it was difficult. Almost impossible.

But it is precisely this impossibility that makes it the best filter. Those who can persevere through this test, regardless of their ultimate success, will grow into outstanding individuals.

"Take the list." Gao Yao handed the bamboo slips to Gao Lin. "Starting tomorrow, you can visit these gentlemen. How to impress them, how to learn from them, and how to prove yourselves are all up to your own abilities."

"Thank you, Father!" the four boys said in unison.

“Remember,” Gao Yao concluded, “competition is competition, but you are brothers. I don’t want to see you turn against each other and become enemies over that position. If I find out that anyone has used unfair means, don’t blame me for disregarding our father-son relationship.”

His tone was calm, but the weight of his words sent a chill down the spines of all four boys.

"My son understands."

"Alright, go ahead. Prepare well."

The four boys bowed and took their leave. As they walked out of the side hall, the sunlight streamed into the courtyard. The winter sun, though not warm, was bright, illuminating the boys' faces and reflecting their different expressions.

Gao Yao stood inside the hall, watching their departing figures through the window lattice.

These children are all young. Their future holds countless possibilities. All he can do is give them a relatively fair starting point and then see how they choose and how they grow.

As for the final result... that's no longer important.

Most importantly, through this test, whoever emerges victorious will gain a rigorously trained successor for the new dynasty. The other children will also find their own path in the process.

Three years later, in the fifth year of the Daye era (216 AD), in the second month of spring, Xianyang had regained its former glory, even surpassing the reign of Qin Shi Huang. After all, Gao Yao was a time traveler, and his policies were efficient and effective. Coupled with thriving commerce and self-sufficient citizens, Xianyang was naturally much more prosperous.

The newly completed altar for worshipping Heaven stands majestically on the southern slope of Cangshan Mountain, built against the mountainside. The altar's architecture incorporates elements of Central Plains ritual, reaching a height of nine zhang and nine chi (approximately 33 meters), symbolizing the supreme authority of the emperor. The plaza in front of the altar can accommodate ten thousand people, but today it was packed to capacity. Representatives from various tribes of the Baiyue, the three northern prefectures, and the Qiang tribes, along with court officials and military commanders, all stood solemnly in anticipation.

The ceremony officially begins only after the morning bell has rung nine times.

Gao Yao wore a black royal robe embroidered with the sun, moon, stars, mountains, dragons, and pheasants; the twelve symbols of imperial authority proclaimed the supreme power of the king. He wore a seven-tassel crown, each tassel adorned with twelve jade beads, which clinked lightly as he walked, producing a clear, melodious sound. Three years had passed, and this once bewildered transmigrator had shed his youthful naiveté, replaced by the dignified and profound air of someone long accustomed to a high position.

"The auspicious time has arrived—Your Majesty, ascend the altar—" the master of ceremonies announced loudly.

Gao Yao slowly ascended the nine jade steps, each step firm and powerful. This time, he officially declared himself emperor. After three years of recuperation, the court was well-prepared with troops and provisions. Before achieving complete unification, Gao Yao needed to establish himself as the legitimate ruler.

On the altar, the three sacrificial animals were prepared, and incense and candles swirled. Gao Yao followed the ritual established by Zhang Liang, first offering sacrifices to Heaven and Earth, then to the mountains and rivers, and finally to his ancestors—although his ancestors in this world were purely fictional, the ceremony had to be completed.

"I, Gao Yao, having received the mandate of Heaven and followed the will of the people, rise from the land of Baiyue. I offer sacrifices to Heaven, Earth, mountains, and rivers, and from this day forth, I formally ascend the throne as Emperor, establishing the nation of Huaxia, and adopting the reign title Tianyuan. I shall strive diligently to govern, quell the chaos of the world, and restore peace to the land!"

The sound was amplified throughout the venue through a specially designed amplification device—a simple amplification system made by Shen Kuo, the Minister of Works, based on Gao Yao's brief description, using copper pipes and a resonating cavity, which was an amazing innovation for that era.

"Long live! Long live! Long live!"

Amidst a deafening roar of worship, Gao Yao turned to face the assembled people. His gaze swept across the crowd: in the ranks of civil officials, Xiao He, Zhang Liang, Zhuge Liang, Huo Guang, Di Renjie, and others stood at the forefront; in the ranks of military generals, renowned figures such as Han Xin, Cao Can, Yue Fei, and Xue Rengui stood solemnly; further away, chieftains of various Baiyue tribes wore traditional attire, the Qiang leader donned fur coats, and representatives of the gentry from the three northern prefectures wore Central Plains clothing…

The grand ceremony lasted for a full three hours. The investiture of Queen Lü Zhi, the appointment of officials, the promulgation of the new era name, the announcement of a general amnesty... every ceremony was meticulously designed, adhering to ancient rites while also incorporating innovative elements.

After the ceremony, Gao Yao did not immediately return to the palace. Instead, he ascended the palace wall to receive the worship of the people. Below the palace wall, the streets were packed with the people of the capital. Many of them were migrants from the Central Plains who had followed Gao Yao south many years ago, or mountain people from the Baiyue region who had been attracted by the new policies. Now, Xianyang had a population of over 300,000, with shops lining the streets and workshops everywhere, making it the largest city.

"Fellow countrymen!" Gao Yao's voice rang out again, "Many years ago, I promised you a place to live and work in peace; and today, I promise the world a peaceful and prosperous era! From this day forward, let us unite as one and work together to create a great cause for China!"