Chapter 8
"No wonder the emperor loves Mr. Cheng so much. Such achievements are truly unprecedented and difficult to catch up with in the future!" A minister praised, his eyes full of admiration and envy.
“This sweet potato does taste good, but to say it is unprecedented may be a bit exaggerated. You have to wait until it is planted in a large area and can harvest a thousand pounds per acre, then it will be considered its real ability.” Another One minister seemed more cautious, with a hint of reservation in his words.
"Master Cheng said so definitely, it should not be groundless. It is reasonable for the emperor to be so excited." A young minister interjected, his face full of admiration for Master Cheng .
"Yes, yes, yes, Master Cheng is really the wizard the emperor said. I misjudged him before. I'm so ashamed!" A minister who had misunderstood Master Cheng before sighed with emotion. Full of self-blame and regret.
In the court, everyone was talking a lot. There were some small comments at first, but soon everyone turned to look at Mr. Cheng with admiration. They felt that the emperor's love and attention to her were all because she was really capable.
"I will leave it to you two, Cheng Qing and Yu Qing, to vigorously promote this sweet potato. I believe that in the near future, the entire city of Chang'an and the entire Tang Dynasty will be completely renewed because of it!" Li Shimin finished speaking, His eyes sparkled with excitement. He seemed to have seen the beautiful scene where sweet potatoes were widely planted in the Tang Dynasty and the people lived and worked in peace and contentment. Seeing that none of the ministers had any objections, he announced his resignation.
Master Cheng Li Qingge is a tall woman with a delicate face. She is wearing official uniform and looks heroic. She looked helplessly at Yu Shinan beside her. The two smiled at each other and started their sweet potato business. They first tried planting in Chang'an City, and then posted a notice saying that good things to satisfy their hunger would be distributed at the gate of the city in three days.
As soon as the news came out, the people in Chang'an were excited. They all walked out of their homes and gathered together to talk.
“I wonder what good stuff it could be?” a woman wearing coarse clothes asked curiously.
"It won't be a gift of food, right?" A thin man said expectantly, "It would be great if it was food! I feel sad when I think of my mother who died of hunger."
"The Emperor is kind , since the notice has been posted, it must be good news," an old man comforted everyone.
The people in Chang'an were talking a lot after seeing the notice, and they were all looking forward to receiving food. They all speculated about what good things the emperor would give them, with expressions of anticipation and excitement on their faces.
While in the palace, Li Shimin's confidant came to report: "Your Majesty, Li Yi does have the intention to rebel. He is gathering troops and he is about to take action."
"Okay, I Got it. When the evidence is solid, let his people bring Li Yi's head to me! How can I allow others to covet my country?" After Li Shimin finished speaking, a determined expression appeared on his face. His eyes revealed firm determination and unquestionable majesty.
"Yes!" The secret guard took the order and left, quietly starting to make arrangements. They knew that this was a contest related to national security and did not dare to slack off in the slightest.
Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair and said to himself: "Cheng Qing, this kid, you really can't underestimate him." Although he was surprised that he could hear Cheng Qing's heart, he also felt that there was something wrong with him. She's fun to have around to help. Now that everything Cheng Qing said came true, he was surprised and a little more worried. He thought about what Cheng Qing said in the court, and he couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion in his heart. Is the prince as good as Long Yang? And you got injured recently? These two things were like two big rocks pressing on Li Shimin's chest, making him very unhappy. He was worried that the prince's conduct would affect the country's future, and that Cheng Qing's prediction would come true.
While Li Shimin was immersed in worry, a young eunuch ran in in a panic and reported: "Your Majesty, urgent report! The prince fell off his horse and was seriously injured while hunting!"
"What? Is this so panicky?" Li Shimin asked seriously, puzzled. An ominous premonition surged in his heart. Could it be that Cheng Qing's prediction really came true?
"The horse the prince was riding was frightened. The prince fell off the horse and fell unconscious. He has been sent back to the mansion for treatment." The young eunuch replied with a trembling voice.
Li Shimin stood up suddenly and walked quickly to the Prince's Mansion. His heart was filled with worry and uneasiness, and he didn't know how injured the prince was.
When I arrived at the Prince's Mansion, I saw that the Prince was unconscious and the palace was surrounded by imperial doctors. Li Shimin's heart was as heavy as lead. Was it really Cheng Qing's fault that the prince was injured at this time? He couldn't believe this fact, but he had to face this cruel reality.
"How is the prince?" Li Shimin asked the imperial doctor in a deep voice. There was a tremor and uneasiness in his voice, and he was afraid of hearing bad news.
The imperial doctors looked at each other, and finally an older imperial doctor stood up and said: "Your Majesty, the prince has been treated with all his strength, and his life is fine. But..." He stopped here and stopped talking. I don’t even know how to say it even if I have the heart to say it.
“But what?” Li Shimin asked sharply. He already had a premonition in his heart, but still hoped to hear good news.
"The prince's right leg is fractured and his ankle is also seriously injured. Although it can be cured, it depends on God's will whether he can move as freely as before." After saying this, the imperial doctor bowed and left.
Li Shimin waved the imperial doctors to leave, faced the unconscious prince alone, and sighed for a long time. He looked at the prince's pale face and closed eyes, his heart filled with pain and helplessness. He didn't know what he should do to help the prince overcome this difficulty, and he didn't know what the prince's future would be like. He could only pray silently, hoping that the prince would recover soon and get back on his feet.
On the other hand, the promotion of sweet potatoes is going very smoothly. On the third day, the common people gathered at the city gate. Cheng Qing and others distributed sweet potatoes according to the number of households, and they ran out quickly. Then, they also taught everyone how to grow sweet potatoes.
I heard that the yield of sweet potatoes was high and it was recommended by the emperor. Although the common people were a little bit embarrassed, but thinking of the emperor's kindness, they were all willing to give it a try. They held sweet potato seeds, listened to Cheng Qing and Yu Shinan's explanations, and studied planting techniques seriously. They believed in the emperor, and even more in Datang. They believed that this sweet potato could bring them a good harvest and hope.
"I was worried that I would have to waste a lot of words, but I didn't expect it to go so smoothly." Cheng Qing was secretly happy, and turned to look at Yu Shinan. Seeing that he still looked excited, she reminded him: " Mr. Yu, the matter has been settled, we can go back.”
After saying that, she stood up and prepared to leave. Her figure shuttled among the crowd, looking particularly eye-catching. Her eyes showed determination and confidence, as if she had seen the wonderful sight of sweet potatoes being widely grown in Datang.
"Xiao Mu." Yu Shinan suddenly pulled her sleeve and asked nervously, "Can they really plant it?" He was worried that the people would eat all the sweet potatoes because of their gluttony, delaying the planting process. event.
"Don't worry, they believe in us, and they believe in Datang even more." Cheng Qing replied casually, left the Prince's Mansion and returned to his home. After a busy day, she was extremely tired. As soon as she entered the door, she shouted: "The first thing I do when I get home is to take a hot bath!" Her voice revealed exhaustion and relaxation, as if she had forgotten the disputes and disputes in the court. The matter of the prince. She just wanted to take a good rest and enjoy some time to herself.
Two days later, the city of Chang'an suddenly exploded. Li Yi actually started a rebellion! The news quickly spread through the streets like wildfire, and people were panicking and talking. However, before Li Yi led his troops to the city, he was killed by his cronies, and his head was quickly delivered to the entrance of the palace.
"Report——"
There was an urgent call, like the beating of a drum, which made the palace gate seem to tremble. A guard rushed in sweating profusely, his face was pale, and his eyes showed nervousness and anxiety.
“What’s so urgent?”
Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair and asked casually when he saw the guard panting like a dog and holding a wooden box in his hand. One sentence. He already had a premonition of something ominous, but his face remained calm.
"Your Majesty, Li Yi raised troops outside the city, but was beheaded by his left and right guardians. This is his head. Please take a look at it."
After the guard finished speaking, the court suddenly became stunned. There was an uproar. The ministers were whispering to each other and discussing.
"Oh, this really happened!"
"Li Yi is usually not honest, but he didn't expect his ambition to be so big!"
"It's so sad that people are so incompetent!"
Li Shimin waved his hand to ask everyone to quiet down. He frowned, and then asked the guard to bring the head up. The guard stepped forward and carefully opened the wooden box. Li Shimin looked inside and saw that it was indeed Li Yi's dead face, with no sound at all. He frowned and closed his eyes, a wave of complicated emotions welling up in his heart. When the guards saw this, they quickly retreated.
【I thought this matter would have to drag on for a while, but I didn’t expect it to be resolved so quickly! 】
[Empress Changsun is dying soon. If she had taken good care of her minor illness earlier, she wouldn’t be like this! 】
【The Tang Dynasty was prosperous, but bloodshed and sacrifice were inevitable. It was really helpless. 】
【Chasing fame and wealth all your life will end up being nothing more than a handful of dirt. It’s better to cherish the present and enjoy life! 】
Li Qingge stood in a corner of the court, muttering in his heart. Wearing a light blue official uniform, she is tall, has a delicate face, and her eyes reveal wisdom and calmness. These words somehow reached Li Shimin's ears, which shocked him again. He turned to look at Li Qingge, feeling a burst of complicated emotions in his heart. He not only admired Li Qingge's resourcefulness, but also felt sorry for Empress Changsun's misfortune.
"My most beloved Empress Changsun, her days are numbered." Li Shimin sighed secretly in his heart, "She has worked too hard these years, and it is all my fault. If I had known that this would happen, I would definitely Let her have a good rest." Thinking of this, he decided to take good care of Queen Changsun and fulfill his responsibilities as a husband.
Li Shimin was overwhelmed with emotion, and turned to ask the ministers: "What should we do with Li Yi's family?" There was a hint of exhaustion and helplessness in his voice.
"Your Majesty, Li Yi has rebelled, and the nine tribes should be killed to prevent revenge and stabilize the government!" A minister stood up and said righteously. Other ministers also echoed and expressed their agreement.
【Kill the Nine Tribes? This is too cruel! What should we do with the dozens of people in the family and the innocent women and children? Forget about being exiled, confiscate their weapons, and never allow them to return to Beijing. This won't cause any trouble! ] Li Qingge muttered secretly in his heart. Although she is a woman, she has a strong character and a delicate mind. She couldn't bear to see innocent people being implicated.
Li Shimin glared at everyone, the rebellion really made him angry. But thinking of his benevolent government, he still couldn't bear to kill. He was silent for a while, and then said slowly: "Declaration: Li Yi's subordinates are incorporated into Li Qingge's command; his family members and women are exiled to the frontier and are never allowed to return to Luoyang." There was a hint of majesty and intolerance in his voice. doubt.
The ministers in the court nodded in agreement, admiring Li Shimin's generosity in their hearts. They knew that the current situation no longer allowed killing people. Li Shimin's choice was wise and kind.
[Li Shimin, this guy, has a pretty broad mind. 】Li Qingge complained in his heart, 【Does he know everything I'm thinking? This guy usually looks naive, but he is quite sober at critical moments. 】Although she said this, she was still full of respect and admiration for Li Shimin in her heart. She knew that Li Shimin was a wise and thoughtful emperor.
Not long after the dynasty ended, news came that the prince had awakened. Without saying a word, Li Shimin dragged Li Qingge to the Prince's Mansion. He looked anxious and worried, obviously very concerned about the prince's injury.
【Why did you drag me there? What does your son's illness have to do with me? 】Li Qingge kept slandering him all the way, 【I just praised him for not being stupid, and now he is stupid again! Li Chengqian and I can't get along with each other. Why are you pulling me? Is there water in your head? 】Although she complained on her lips, she still understood Li Shimin's intentions in her heart. She knew that Li Shimin hoped that she could help check the prince's injury and give some suggestions.
Arrived at the Prince's Mansion, Li Qingge saw Li Chengqian lying on the bed, his eyes empty and lifeless, completely different from the morning meeting. Seeing Li Shimin coming, he reluctantly wanted to get up and salute. But Li Shimin held him down and asked him to lie down.
“I can’t feel my legs and I’m afraid they will become useless.” Li Chengqian asked cautiously, looking at Li Shimin’s face. There was a hint of trembling and uneasiness in his voice. He knew that although his position was noble, it was also dangerous. What would happen if he was really disabled?
"The imperial doctor has checked that everything is fine, just take good care of yourself." Li Shimin comforted him. There was a hint of tenderness and care in his voice. He knew Li Chengqian's worries and uneasiness, but he also believed in the medical skills and judgment of the imperial physician.
【What are you worried about? There are so many actors in the house to accompany you to relieve your boredom. A lame leg doesn't affect the overall situation. 】Li Qingge was secretly happy in his heart. She had no feelings for Li Chengqian, but she was quite curious when she saw Li Shimin's expression. She wanted to know how he would react when he found out the truth. Because she knew that Prince Li Chengqian was not a simple character. There are complex political forces and conspiracies behind him. And all this will gradually surface in the days to come.
Li Shimin's heart knot
Li Shimin never expected that his beloved son would be on the verge of rebellion! Although this thing hadn't really happened yet, he was still shocked when he heard what Li Qingge said. He looked at Li Chengqian again, with anger and confusion in his eyes. How could this son, who has always been docile, have such thoughts?
"Grandpa." Li Chengqian was confused, thinking that he had done something wrong again, and his voice was as low as a mosquito. He looked at Li Shimin, his eyes full of fear and confusion. He didn't know what he had done wrong, why his grandpa looked at him like this.
"Prince, please have a good rest. I will come see you another day." After Li Shimin said that, he turned around and left. He was feeling confused and didn't know what to do. He walked out of the Prince's Mansion, his steps heavy and his mood complicated. He never imagined that his beloved son would have thoughts of rebellion. This made him feel sad and made him question his own education methods.
Li Qingge followed behind, murmuring in her heart: "What is Li Shimin thinking about? Aren't he coming to see his stupid son Li Chengqian? He didn't say a word after meeting him!" She shook her head, I was puzzled by Li Shimin's actions. But she also knew that this was a royal family matter and it was not easy for an outsider to interfere.
"Oh, forget it, it has nothing to do with me, I'd better go back and enjoy my massage time!" Li Qingge sighed, turned around and prepared to leave. Although she is a female official, she is also a person who knows how to enjoy life. She knew that she couldn't control these royal matters, and she didn't want to.
Li Shimin felt even more irritated when he heard Li Qingge's slander. This Li Qingge, up to this point, still only thinks about himself and doesn't take the emperor seriously at all. But there was nothing he could do against her. After all, Li Qingge was his right-hand man and someone he trusted. He could only shake his head and continue walking forward.
Time flew by, and Li Chengqian's injuries gradually recovered, but his muscles and bones were injured, and his right leg became lame. His temperament also became more and more dull, and he was no longer as lively and cheerful as before. He stayed in the Prince's Mansion all day, rarely going out and rarely communicating with others.
Li Shimin began to worry about the crown prince's position. He knew that Li Chengqian's leg injury might affect his status and even the future of Datang. He began to consider whether to abolish Li Chengqian's position as prince and choose someone else.
[Li Shimin is also stupid. He thinks about the prince's legs every day. Sooner or later, they will be broken. What's there to worry about. ] Li Qingge muttered in his heart, [The prince's fate is mediocre by nature, and it cannot be changed by having two sound legs. ] She shook her head, puzzled by Li Shimin's worries. She knew that it was written in the history books that the prince was a man who could not be supported. Even if his legs were not injured, he would not be able to take on major responsibilities.
[He should think more about national affairs. Things like drought and Turks are urgent, so how can he have time to take care of them. ] Li Qingge continued to curse in his heart, [The prince's virtues cannot sustain the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty. If he is allowed to take power, it will be a disaster. Decades of hard work will be in vain, and the Tang Dynasty will inevitably decline. 】
In the court, Li Qingge saw that Li Shimin was worried about the prince, and knew that he was thinking about it again. She had no feelings for Li Chengqian to begin with, and she knew that the history books said that the prince was a man who could not be supported. She shook her head, feeling helpless at Li Shimin's worries.
When Li Shimin heard Li Qingge's words, he retracted his thoughts and was shocked. ‘Yes, although Cheng Qian didn’t make any big mistakes, his abilities are indeed average. Is it okay to leave Datang to him? ’ He began to doubt whether his decision was really to abolish Li Chengqian’s position as prince.
He knew in his heart that Cheng Qian was not the emperor's material, but considering that he was the eldest son of Empress Changsun, he still couldn't help but prefer him. He thought of Queen Changsun's gentleness and virtuousness, and felt sad in his heart. ‘I hope Cheng Qian can be more upbeat in the future and don’t let down the expectations of me and the queen. ’ He prayed silently in his heart. Li Shimin still wanted to give Cheng Qian a chance. After all, he was his son and the hope of Empress Changsun. There were too many things to worry about recently, and he himself was a little shaken. In addition, although his eldest brother Li Jiancheng has been dead for more than a year, the remaining members of the party are still there, making him feel like a light on his back. He began to consider whether to take some measures to consolidate his position and lay a solid foundation for Datang's future.
"If there's nothing else, let's all disperse!" Li Shimin waved his hand and prepared to leave. He didn't want to discuss the prince's affairs anymore because every discussion made him feel upset.
"Your Majesty, it's not good!" A young eunuch hurried in, breaking the tranquility of the court.
Li Shimin suppressed his anger and asked: "Why is it so urgent? Say it quickly!" He looked at the little eunuch, a trace of displeasure flashed in his eyes.
"The Queen fainted, and the maid found blood on her handkerchief." The young eunuch said with a trembling voice.
【Coughing up blood, Queen Changsun is afraid that her time is running out. ] Li Qingge sighed secretly in his heart, [People at that time had poor living conditions and underdeveloped medical skills, so their life spans were short. 】 She began to worry about the condition of Queen Changsun.
[Li Shimin himself also died in the 23rd year of Zhenguan, but he still lived a few years longer than Empress Changsun. ] Li Qingge continued to think in his heart, [Fortunately, he did not take care of much in his later years and saw the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty with his own eyes. If he had lived for a few more decades, he might have lost his foundation! ] She began to worry about Li Shimin's future.
Li Qingge felt mixed emotions when he heard that Queen Changsun was coughing up blood. Although she didn't have much contact with Empress Changsun, she also knew that she was a gentle and virtuous woman and a virtuous empress of the Tang Dynasty. She began to feel anxious about the condition of Queen Changsun.
“Let’s go!” Li Shimin pulled Li Qingge and rushed to the queen’s palace. He was so anxious that he just wanted to see Queen Changsun as soon as possible to confirm her safety.
On the way, Li Shimin was confused: 'The queen is still young, why is it like Qing Ge said, what else will happen? ’ He began to doubt his judgment, as Li Qingge said, Queen Changsun’s time was running out.
‘The queen used to be in good health, but it was because she worked too hard after I ascended the throne that she collapsed. How could this happen! ’ He began to blame himself, thinking that he had made Empress Changsun sick because she worked too hard.
‘Qing Ge said that I would die in the 23rd year of Zhenguan, and that I would be foolish and ignorant in my later years. How is this possible? ’ He began to doubt Li Qingge’s words, thinking that he was still young and strong and could not die so early.
‘I only hope to live to be twenty-two years old and see the prosperous age of the Tang Dynasty with my own eyes. That would be worth dying for. ’ He prayed silently in his heart, hoping that he could witness the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty with his own eyes.
Li Shimin gathered his thoughts, the most important thing now was the queen's safety. He quickened his pace, just wanting to see Queen Changsun as soon as possible.
‘My queen, you are the most caring person since I came to the throne. You must not let anything happen to you! ’ He prayed silently in his heart, hoping that Queen Changsun would be safe and sound.
Li Qingge followed behind, looking at Li Shimin's anxious back, he felt a sense of emotion in his heart. She knew the status of Empress Changsun in Li Shimin's heart, and she also knew his anxiety and worry at the moment. She began to feel more worried about Queen Changsun's condition, and at the same time she also felt a little worried about Li Shimin's future.
‘Empress Changsun is seriously ill and takes me with her! Chengqian was like this last time! What do I have to do with them? What are you taking me for? It's better to call the prince to come and meet the mother and son, and the queen will feel better. ’ Li Qingge cursed in his heart, but he still quickened his pace and followed Li Shimin to the queen’s palace. She knew that Li Shimin needed her company and support at this moment.
"Call Li Chengqian here, the queen mother is so seriously ill, how can the son not take care of her at the bedside?" Li Shimin said with unquestionable determination in his tone, and his eyes revealed his concern for the queen. deep concern, and slight reproach for the prince's failure to fulfill his filial piety.
When he reached the door of the palace, Li Shimin suddenly stopped, turned around and said to the attendant: "Go." The attendant responded, saluted hurriedly, and hurried to invite Li Chengqian. The sun shines through the clouds and shines on the magnificent palace, but it seems unable to dispel the worries in Li Shimin's heart.
[It’s strange, I just thought about it, and Li Shimin actually did it. 】Qingge thought, 【This guy seems to be able to read minds, but well, if the emperor can't even guess this little bit of thoughts, then he's really mediocre. ] She tilted her head slightly, with a hint of playfulness in her eyes, as if she had a touch of curiosity and alienation towards everything in the world. [Whatever, Li Shimin can do whatever he likes, I will leave as soon as I finish the work. 】
Qingge didn't think much and followed Li Shimin into the palace. In the palace, the gauze is dancing and the fragrance is lingering. It is peaceful and peaceful, completely different from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
Li Shimin was actually a little embarrassed and thought to himself: "As a monarch, if I can't do such a small thing, then I am really a mediocre person." He glanced at Qing Ge secretly and couldn't figure it out in his mind. Did Ge's words praise him or hurt him? Qingge's face was calm, but there seemed to be a thousand words hidden in his eyes, making him unpredictable. [Forget it, Queen, it’s important, I’m not the kind of person who cares about everything. 】
Thinking like this, they had already reached the main hall. In the hall, candlelight flickers, reflecting ancient murals, which seem to tell the vicissitudes of thousands of years.
"Your Majesty! Your Majesty!" When the maids saw the emperor coming, they shouted in unison, with awe and joy in their voices. They all saluted, their movements uniform, like a moving picture.
Li Shimin nodded slightly in response. His eyes swept over the maids, and an inexplicable emotion surged in his heart. Time flies by, and these palace ladies have accompanied him for many years. Now that the queen is seriously ill, he feels the ruthlessness of time even more.
At this time, the queen had woken up. She was sitting on the bed, her face was pale, but her eyes revealed a kind of tenacity and tenderness. Seeing the emperor suddenly appear in front of her eyes, a flash of surprise flashed in her eyes. "Your Majesty." Her voice was weak due to her physical weakness, but every word was full of affection.
The queen wanted to struggle to get up and salute, but Li Shimin quickly stopped her: "Queen, have a good rest and don't pay attention to these false etiquette." He gently pressed the queen's shoulders to make her lean more comfortably.
The queen lay down as instructed and sighed softly: "I have fainted twice in the past half month. I am afraid that my body will not last long." There was a hint in her tone. There is a hint of helplessness and sadness, but more of a deep attachment to her husband and son.
Li Shimin held the queen's hand tightly and said firmly: "Queen, don't say such unlucky words. You will stay with me as long as I want to live. We will live to be a hundred years old together." There was unquestionable determination in his voice, as if he wanted to block out all illness and misfortune.
The queen knew that her time was running out, and said anxiously: "I know my own body best. I am not afraid of death, but I am worried about Your Majesty and Cheng Qian. This child is not the material to be the emperor. If he makes any mistakes in the future, I hope Your Majesty can think of my concubine and forgive him." Tears flashed in her eyes, showing deep worry and reluctance about the future.
After hearing this, Li Shimin felt sad in his heart. He gently touched the queen's hand, as if to convey all the comfort and strength to her. "Queen..." He called softly, but was so choked that he couldn't speak.
"Chengqian is also my son, and I will definitely treat him well. It doesn't matter even if his qualifications are mediocre. As long as he is motivated, hard-working, and doesn't think too much, the position of prince will still be his." Li Shimin solemnly promised , there was an unquestionable majesty and kindness in his voice.
"Thank you, Your Majesty." After hearing this, the queen felt a little more at ease. She closed her eyes, as if to imprint this promise deeply into her heart.
As a mother, the queen's love for her son is deep and long-lasting. She is worried about Chengqian's future and hopes that he can live well even if she is gone. This love transcends life, death and power, and I only hope that my son will be safe and successful.
[What a pity, Cheng Qian’s parents are not ordinary people, so why is his son so useless! 】 Qing Ge sighed secretly in his heart. She looked at the Queen and Li Shimin with a penetrating gaze, as if she could penetrate the mists of time. [Although you are worried about him, he may not appreciate it. Moreover, this guy also has a habit of cutting off his sleeves, and he will soon do something as big as treason! ] Her heart was filled with helplessness and emotion about her fate.
【Empress Changsun's illness may have been caused by being too worried about her son. Although the cough is severe, with good medicine and careful care, I might be able to live a few more years. 】Qingge was thinking while noticing Li Chengqian who had just come in. His steps were hurried, and there was a trace of panic and uneasiness in his eyes.
"Mother, Grandpa." Li Chengqian saluted respectfully, but when he saw Qing Ge, a trace of hostility flashed in his eyes. His eyes were full of wariness and dissatisfaction with this woman who suddenly appeared in his life.
Qingge ignored Li Chengqian's hostility and just looked at him quietly. Her eyes were calm and deep, as if she could see into people's hearts. [Why is this stupid prince staring at me? I didn't offend him! 】 Qingge felt a little helpless, "I didn't come here voluntarily. I am the eldest son of the Cheng family and not the son of the emperor. How can I compete with him for the throne?" Even if he wants to give me the throne, I still don't care about it. No wonder he was scrapped in the end, he had no tolerance at all. 】
The queen called Cheng Qian gently. Although her voice was thin, it was full of the warmth of maternal love. "Chengqian, you have lost weight recently, don't be playful all the time, and study diligently to live up to your grandpa's expectations." She said earnestly, and every word was full of ardent expectations for her son.
Although Cheng Qian listened impatiently, he still respected and loved the queen and responded respectfully. An inexplicable guilt and self-blame surged in his heart, as if he realized that he had failed to fulfill his due filial piety.
[True filial piety should be to stay with your mother at all times, instead of waiting until she is called. ] Qingge secretly commented on Cheng Qian's filial piety, [But having said that, it would be a good thing if his illness could be alleviated. I remember that my roommate in college had a bad cough, and his mother asked an old Chinese medicine doctor to prescribe a prescription...]
A prescription suddenly flashed in Qingge's mind: [Tangerine peel for six qian, Codonopsis pilosula for ten qian, and dendrobium for 10 qian. , 9 qian of Ophiopogon japonicus, 6 qian of licorice, 10 qian of silver flower, and 2 qian of Polygonum cuspidatum, simmer over slow fire for two hours, take it once in the morning and evening, you should see the effect within two weeks. ] There was an inexplicable impulse in her heart, and she wanted to tell the queen this prescription, but she hesitated whether she should interfere with this historical process.
[If Empress Changsun could drink this medicine, she might really be able to live a few more years. But why should I bother? History has already determined that she will leave sooner or later, so what does it have to do with me. 】Although Qing Ge thought so in his heart, there was a trace of complicated emotions in his eyes. She looked at the queen's pale face, and felt an inexplicable feeling of pity and helplessness in her heart.
Li Qingge was worried about trouble. He was worried that once he opened his mouth, the emperor would keep asking questions, especially since he had no interest in Li Chengqian's matter. She didn't like to get involved in the muddy waters of government affairs. She just wanted to be quiet and enjoy her own peace and freedom. She frowned slightly, with a hint of helplessness in her eyes. It was as if Li Shimin, who could see into people's hearts, could see her thoughts, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that since Empress Changsun's illness could be cured, it would be great to live a few more years. He silently wrote down the prescription and planned to give it a try, feeling an inexplicable feeling of gratitude and expectation in his heart.
On the folk side, everyone has been busy for more than half a month, and the sweet potato seedlings finally sprouted small green buds. The news reached the palace, and the whole court was filled with joy, as if the entire palace was infected by this joyful atmosphere.
"Great! As long as you keep enough water, it will definitely be a bumper harvest this year!" A minister said excitedly, his face filled with anticipation and excitement.
“The sweet potatoes in my field have also sprouted. I’m excited just thinking about it!” Another minister answered, his eyes shining with hope.
“Just waiting for the autumn harvest day!” More people agreed, and the court was as lively as the Chinese New Year. Although the results have not yet been seen, the joy of this innovation has excited everyone, as if it indicates that Datang is about to usher in an unprecedented harvest year.
Li Shimin sat on the dragon throne and couldn't help but raise the corners of his mouth. He looked around at the ministers in the court, feeling an inexplicable sense of relief and pride in his heart. However, in this joy, he also noticed the indifference and detachment in Li Qingge's heart.
[What’s so surprising about this small achievement of a countryman! I know a lot of crops, but none of them can produce a thousand catties of crops. 】Li Qingge muttered secretly in her heart, her eyes revealed a kind of disdain and contempt, as if she didn't care about the excitement and excitement of these ministers.
【You only know that sweet potatoes are edible, but you don’t know that its leaves are also delicacies. Stir-fry it and add some salt, it tastes amazing! ] She continued to curse in her heart, with a playful smile on her lips, as if she was amused by the ignorance and shallowness of these ministers.
【I'm too lazy to tell you this. There are so many people in the world, so I've been tormented by this for several days. If I know anything else, how can I have time to have fun! 】 She complained secretly in her heart, and her eyes showed a kind of helplessness and irritability, as if she was bored and tired of these trivial matters of government affairs.
When Li Shimin heard these slanders, he secretly laughed in his heart: "This kid really has something in his belly, he is not an ordinary person." He looked at Li Qingge with admiration, with an inexplicable light shining in his eyes, as if he had something special for her. expectations and concerns.
"I heard that wheat can also produce a thousand catties, which is really amazing! There are also sweet potato leaves that can be eaten, but I am so ignorant. I need to spread my voice and learn more about the strengths of other countries to make the Tang Dynasty more prosperous." Li Shimin said loudly, his voice full of firmness and determination, as if he had already seen the future prosperity of the Tang Dynasty.
He turned to look at Li Qingge, with a kind of expectation and respect in his eyes: "Don't hide the things in your head." There was an undoubted majesty and kindness in his words, as if he was caring for you. Li Qingge has a different kind of expectation and trust.
Li Shimin was drawing a blueprint for a prosperous age in his heart. He was in a good mood and his worries were forgotten. After retiring from the court, he deliberately stayed with Li Qingge, hoping to enjoy the beauty of the Imperial Garden with her.
【Why does Li Shimin keep looking for me? Don't you have any special thoughts about me? 】Li Qingge muttered to himself, her eyes revealed a kind of vigilance and vigilance, as if she was puzzled and confused by Li Shimin's actions.
[I don’t like men. There are so many beautiful maids in Cheng’s house, and no one is better than him! ] She continued to curse in her heart, with a playful smile on her lips, as if she was amused and disdainful of Li Shimin's gender orientation.
【Terrible! ] She marveled secretly in her heart, and her eyes showed a kind of helplessness and irritability, as if she was tired of Li Shimin's entanglement.
However, Li Shimin heard Li Qingge's thoughts from the side and almost laughed out loud. This kid always doubts his own sexual orientation, which is really dumbfounding. I am a tall, seven-foot-old man with numerous children and grandchildren, so how could I have such ridiculous thoughts? He shook his head and invited with a smile: "Qingge, come with me to the Royal Garden for a walk." There was an unquestionable majesty and love in his voice, as if he had special regard and expectations for Li Qingge.
“According to the order.” Although Li Qingge wanted to go home and enjoy his leisure time, he did not dare to resist the order. She sighed helplessly and followed Li Shimin into the Imperial Garden. In the Imperial Garden, the fragrance of flowers is overflowing and the trees are shady, making it seem like a fairyland on earth. However, Li Qingge had no intention of admiring these beautiful scenery. Her heart was filled with desire for freedom and boredom with government affairs.
The two were walking and chatting, and Li Shimin asked casually: "How old are you this year?" There was a kind of concern and love in his voice, as if he was full of expectations for Li Qingge's growth and future.
"Sixteen." Li Qingge thought for a while and replied. There was a kind of indifference and detachment in her voice, as if she didn't care about age and growth. However, her eyes revealed a kind of determination and persistence, as if she had her own pursuits and ideals.
"Haha, you are young and promising. What a genius! It's time to think about marriage. Do you have a girl you like?" Li Shimin asked meaningfully, which was a silent response to Li Qingge's previous misunderstanding. There was a kind of expectation and concern in his eyes, as if he had a different kind of concern and expectation for Li Qingge's marriage.
"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am still young, so I should focus on state affairs and put my children's personal affairs aside for the time being." Li Qingge's answer was exactly what Li Shimin wanted, and he stroked his beard and laughed. His laughter was full of relief and pride, as if he was satisfied and admired for Li Qingge's sensibility and maturity.
"Well done! The man is ambitious in all directions, I won't force you. If you find someone you like in the future, just tell me and I will make the decision for you." Li Shimin's words contained a kind of firmness and determination, as if I am full of expectations and values for Li Qingge’s future.
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Li Qingge replied respectfully. There were ripples in her heart: [Why did Li Shimin suddenly ask about marriage today? He hasn't made arrangements for his own children yet, so how can he care about me? 】【I will pursue the person I like, so why do I need him to worry about it? 】【You should think more about national affairs when you have time. Don't forget that there are so many crises around you. ] Her heart was filled with the desire for freedom and the boredom of government affairs, as if she wanted to escape from the vortex of the court and power struggle that bound her.
However, on the surface, Li Qingge still looked respectful. Li Shimin saw this and thought to himself: This guy is very courageous and has repeatedly despised my kindness. It is really rare in the world. He looked at Li Qingge with admiration, an inexplicable light shining in his eyes, as if he had special expectations and regard for her. He knew that Li Qingge was not a creature in the pool. She had her own pursuits and ideals, as well as wisdom and talent beyond ordinary people. He looked forward to Li Qingge making greater contributions to Datang in the future and writing a more glorious chapter for her own destiny.
The two walked to the goldfish pond, and the fish jumped out of the water to grab food. This place was not far from the Prince's Mansion, but Li Qingge didn't care about this. Her heart is full of longing and expectation for the future, as well as the desire and pursuit of freedom. She knows that only by truly taking control of her own destiny can she live her true self and style. In this vortex of the struggle between the court and power, she must remain clear-headed and determined in order to find her own path.
(End of this chapter)