Chapter 10
Later, Wu Zetian actually passed the throne to her son. As a woman, in an era like the Tang Dynasty where men were superior to women, she was really the winner in life. Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair, listening to Li Qingge talk about the future, and couldn't help but feel filled with emotion. Although this was something in the future and had not happened yet, he had an inexplicable trust in Li Qingge and felt that her words would most likely come true.
"I never expected that this Wu Meiniang would later become the female emperor who held all the power. The name Wu Zetian sounds so domineering!" Li Shimin sighed, with a complicated look flashing in his eyes. He thought of Wu Meiniang's enchanting figure and cunning eyes, and he couldn't help but feel an inexplicable emotion in his heart.
“Hmph, although I admit that it is not easy for a woman to reach this point, the Tang Dynasty is our Li family’s world. How can we tolerate people with foreign surnames, especially women with such chaotic political affairs, to steal the throne? ?" There was a hint of anger and unwillingness in Li Shimin's words. He couldn't accept that a woman could usurp the Li family. This was a great shame to him.
"Look at this kid Li Zhi. We can't rush to make him the prince now. I have to keep an eye on him." Li Shimin said thoughtfully. He stared at His Highness's ministers with deep eyes, as if looking for some answer. Although there is no crown prince for the time being, the foundation of the country may be a little shaken, but hasty decisions are not responsible for the Tang Dynasty. He must carefully consider and choose a prince who can take on the important responsibilities.
"Wu Meiniang, I have to find her and get rid of her. This woman will be a disaster if she stays in the world!" Li Shimin thought of this, his eyes were as sharp as knives, as if he could penetrate all obstacles and look directly at Wu Meiniang's hiding place. He was determined to get rid of this scourge to prevent her from posing a greater threat to the Tang Dynasty in the future.
Li Shimin suddenly announced: "Li Zhi is too young to be crown prince, and no one else is suitable. Let the crown prince's position be vacant for now." He had a stern look on his face, obviously very unhappy. This decision surprised and disturbed the ministers. They started talking one after another, speculating on Li Shimin's true intentions.
"Your Majesty, the position of crown prince cannot remain vacant for a long time. This is not good for the government!" Changsun Wuji saw Li Shimin's change of attitude and felt confused and unwilling. He was afraid that the position of crown prince would fall into the hands of others, which would be detrimental to the eldest grandson's family. So he hurriedly came forward to express his concerns.
“Do you want to resist the decree?” Li Shimin glared at Changsun Wuji, anger already written on his face. He couldn't accept anyone questioning his decision, especially at this critical moment.
"I don't dare." Changsun Wuji's voice became weaker when he saw Li Shimin getting angry. He quickly retreated, not daring to say another word. He knew Li Shimin's temper and majesty and did not dare to touch his bottom line easily.
"Don't say any more." Li Shimin said coldly, and Changsun Wuji had no choice but to retreat. He was filled with reluctance and doubts, but he did not dare to say anything more. He knew that Li Shimin's decision could not be changed easily.
【Why did Li Shimin suddenly become so thoughtful? I wanted to establish Li Zhi before, but now I have changed my mind. 】The ministers were full of doubts and confusion. They all speculated on Li Shimin's true intentions and the reasons behind it.
[Historical records may not always be true, but this may be the general trend. Li Zhi later became the third emperor of the Tang Dynasty. 】Some people secretly muttered in their hearts. They know that the direction of history cannot be easily changed, but they cannot predict the specific details of the future.
【It is normal for Li Shimin to be angry. How do children know anything about national affairs? It is also reasonable to postpone the establishment of savings. 】Some people are defending Li Shimin's behavior. They believed that Li Shimin was thinking about the overall interests of the country and was unwilling to make decisions easily.
[The situation in the DPRK is stable, so Li Shimin naturally has his plans. If you still want to make Li Zhi the crown prince, you must consider it carefully. 】Some people analyze it this way. They knew that Li Shimin was a wise emperor who would not make decisions easily and would carefully consider various factors.
Li Shimin glanced at Li Qingge and sighed in his heart: "What a pity! If this child was my son, I would definitely make him the crown prince. Although he has ambitions in Xianyun Yehe, I can rest assured if I leave the country to him." His heart was filled with admiration and regret for Li Qingge. He knew that Li Qingge was a talented and intelligent man, and if he could become his son, he would definitely be an outstanding prince.
"It's a pity that he is not my son." Li Shimin sighed in his heart again, and his eyes dimmed slightly. He knew that reality could not be changed. Li Qingge was not his son, and he could not leave the country to her.
"Let's put this matter aside for now. I'll think about it carefully when I go back. It's getting late and I'm tired. Let's retreat from the court." Li Shimin announced. He stood up and prepared to leave the hall. He knew that this decision required careful consideration and could not be taken lightly.
"Retreat from the court!" the chamberlain announced loudly. Although the officials were puzzled by Li Shimin's anger, the position of the crown prince was not their concern, so they dispersed one after another. They knew that Li Shimin was a wise emperor and would make the right decision.
Only Changsun Wuji left the hall with a gloomy expression. He was filled with unwillingness and anger, and felt that his position was threatened. He decided to go to Queen Changsun to discuss countermeasures.
"What happened today was really unexpected." Empress Changsun was also surprised by Li Shimin's actions. She knew that her son Cheng Qian was not effective, and her other sons were mediocre and incompetent. Although Li Zhi was somewhat talented, he was still young and not old enough to take on major responsibilities. Therefore, she was very confused by Li Shimin's decision.
"Your Majesty's thoughts are unpredictable. Although the position of crown prince is important, the rise and fall of our eldest grandson family also depends on it. I have to fight for it." After eldest grandson Wuji finished speaking, he sighed. He knew that he had to fight for the position of crown prince, otherwise the status of the eldest son's family would be threatened.
"If we don't rush to do this first, Cheng Qian will not be effective, and the other sons will be mediocre and incompetent. Li Zhi may eventually become the crown prince. Since His Majesty is angry, let's wait for the opportunity before taking action." Queen Changsun also sighed. She knew that her body was getting weaker and her chances of inheriting Qian as heir apparent were slim. Although Li Zhi has some talents, he is still young and not enough to take on big responsibilities. Therefore, she decided to wait for the opportunity before taking action. She believes that as long as there is a chance, the Changsun family will rise again.
“Hey, now it seems that this is the only way we can go.” Changsun Wuji sighed, helplessness and struggle showing on his brows. He knew the importance of the position of crown prince and the stakes involved, but the reluctance in his heart made it difficult for him to let go easily. He looked up and looked out the window. The sky was gray, as if indicating an uncertain future.
If this matter were normal, it would be like an inconspicuous overture, passing by easily. However, because of Taizong's hesitation and hesitation, the crown prince's position was temporarily shelved, hanging like a huge stone in everyone's heart. Above the court, all the officials had their own thoughts, but they all remained silent in a tacit agreement, not daring to touch this sensitive topic easily.
The next day, Li Qingge entered the palace in a sedan as usual. According to the rules, officials of the fourth rank are not qualified to ride in sedan chairs, but this is a special grace given by Taizong. Outside the sedan, the sun was shining brightly and there was a gentle breeze. However, Li Qingge inside the sedan was lying lazily, as if he was not interested in anything. She was wearing an elegant dress, her hair was casually draped over her shoulders, and her eyes were somewhat lazy and casual.
Suddenly, she saw that Wei Zheng's face was not good-looking and glanced at her. There seemed to be a bit of disdain and indifference in his eyes, which made Li Qingge feel a little puzzled. However, she had a lazy personality and didn't want to do anything, so she didn't take it seriously. She just glanced at him lazily and continued to close her eyes and meditate.
“Let’s go.” Li Qingge said to the sedan bearer, and the sedan moved in response and continued moving forward. The bearers walked steadily and the sedan swayed gently, as if they were taking Li Qingge through the tunnel of time.
Wei Zheng looked at this scene and felt even more dissatisfied. He has an upright personality and is a typical conservative, and he can't stand Li Qingge's lazy and informal attitude. He felt that Li Qingge was not worthy of Taizong's grace, let alone sitting in the imperial sedan.
“Stop!” Wei Zheng suddenly shouted loudly, with a bit of anger and dissatisfaction in his voice.
Li Qingge raised his hand to signal the sedan to stop, and the sedan turned around to face Wei Zheng. "Doctor Wei, what do you mean?" Li Qingge asked lazily, with a hint of impatience in his tone. She didn't want to get into any more trouble with Wei Zheng, she just wanted to get into the palace quickly.
"General Cheng is majestic, but unfortunately the sweet potato planting method recommended did not bring a bumper harvest. I am afraid that your majesty and the people of Luoyang will be disappointed." Wei Zheng said coldly, his eyes full of disdain and disdain. ridicule. He glanced at Li Qingge again, "Your Majesty gave you the sedan, Prime Minister, are you comfortable sitting on it?"
When Taizong gave Li Qingge the sedan, Wei Zheng strongly opposed it, saying that Li Qingge's virtues were not worthy of it. This treatment. However, in the end he failed to stop Taizong's decision, which made him hate Li Qingge even more. He felt that Li Qingge was a person who only flattered and had no real talent or learning.
Li Qingge looked at Wei Zheng doubtfully, feeling a little depressed. She didn't know why Wei Zheng was so angry so early in the morning, let alone why he was so dissatisfied with the sweet potato harvest. She racked her brains for a moment and suddenly remembered something. At this time of year, famine has begun, and the Tang Dynasty seems to have encountered new troubles...
Li Qingge felt nervous, but on the surface he still maintained his indifference and casualness. She thought that since she was here, she could just be at ease. It's not too late to discuss countermeasures when we get to the court.
"It's very good. If Doctor Wei likes it, you can ask your Majesty to give you one." Li Qingge looked sideways at Wei Zheng and said leisurely. There was a bit of teasing and ridicule in her words, as if she didn't take Wei Zheng's ridicule to heart.
"Wei is not good at flattery, so naturally he is not so lucky. But God is watching what you do. I just hope that General Cheng can sit safely in this sedan chair." Wei Zheng continued, his expression still ugly. . There was a bit of coldness and determination in his words, as if he was full of hostility towards Li Qingge.
Li Qingge looked at Wei Zheng speechlessly, lamenting his straightforward and stubborn character. She didn't want to dwell on these trivial matters anymore, so she ordered the bearers to continue moving towards the main hall. The bearers moved in response, and the sedan moved forward steadily on the palace road again.
Wei Zheng followed behind with a stern face, his eyes full of dissatisfaction and hostility towards Li Qingge. He felt that Li Qingge was a person who only enjoyed himself and did not think about the country. However, he didn't know that although Li Qingge was lazy and casual on the outside, he was full of wisdom and strategy in his heart.
The atmosphere above the court hall was solemn. Taizong sat high above him. Although there was no emotion on the surface, there was a trace of worry between his brows. All the officials lowered their heads and remained silent, as if they were waiting for a storm to come.
"Your Majesty, now the famine has spread to all parts of the country. People have been displaced. Many people have flocked to Luoyang. There are countless casualties on the road." A minister stood up, with a bit of heaviness and sorrow in his voice. His words were like a knife, piercing the silence in the court.
"Moreover, the locust plague has occurred again, and most of the crops that the people have worked hard to cultivate have been destroyed. If this continues, people will starve to death everywhere." Another minister also stood up, with a hint of laughter in his voice. With a bit of anxiety and helplessness. His words were like a cold wind, blowing away the warmth in the court.
"Your Majesty, please make a decision quickly, otherwise Luoyang will become a gathering place for refugees, and the people outside the city will also face the same fate." Another minister stood up, with a hint of emotion in his voice. Pleas and expectations. His words were like lightning, piercing the darkness in the court room.
The ministers all came forward one after another, but they couldn't come up with any good ideas. They all knew the severity of the famine, but they didn't know how to solve it. They looked at Taizong, their eyes full of expectation and helplessness.
Taizong sat on the dragon chair, calm on the surface but boiling inside like boiling water. How could he not know what the officials said? But the sweet potatoes have just been harvested, which can only temporarily alleviate Luoyang's predicament. Refugees are coming like a flood, how much can be saved with this little food? His heart was filled with helplessness and anxiety.
Although there is still some surplus food in the national treasury, which can meet urgent needs, it is not a long-term solution after all. He had to come up with a better way to solve this famine.
"According to the decree, porridge sheds will be set up immediately, warehouses will be opened to store grain, and five million taels of silver will be allocated from the treasury for disaster relief." Taizong gave the order after some thought. There was some firmness and determination in his voice, as if he had already made a decision.
He knew in his heart that this was just a temporary measure, but there was really no better way at the moment. He must solve this famine as soon as possible, otherwise the consequences will be disastrous.
[Taizong was so generous. He allocated five million taels of silver for disaster relief during a famine. Perhaps no one could match it since the founding of the country. 】A minister silently praised Taizong's generosity and generosity in his heart.
【However, I am afraid that this effect is only temporary. It is easy to fill the stomach, but how to solve the problem of long-term livelihood? ] Another minister was thinking about this problem silently in his heart, his eyes full of worry and helplessness.
[The money for the national treasury comes from people’s taxes. Now we are constantly spending money but not receiving any money. This is not a long-term solution. In the end, it will lead to people's deprivation and national treasury being empty. 】Another minister was silently worried about this problem in his heart, and his words were a bit heavy and sad.
[Although Taizong was generous, the harem probably had to live frugally too! 】A female officer silently guessed the situation in the harem, her eyes full of curiosity and concern.
[Actually, it’s not difficult to solve the famine. Just keep planting sweet potatoes. 】A minister silently made this suggestion in his heart, with a bit of ease and casualness in his words. However, he did not know that growing sweet potatoes is not that easy.
[Those refugees who have been favored by the country should also be allowed to work to repay the country's kindness. 】Another minister silently made this suggestion in his heart, with a bit of seriousness and seriousness in his words. However, he didn't know that these refugees were exhausted. What they needed was rest and help, not more labor.
Li Qingge silently considered these thoughts in her heart, her eyes shining with wisdom and strategy. She knew the seriousness of the famine and also knew Taizong's helplessness and anxiety. She had to come up with a better way to solve this problem.
After Taizong heard Li Qingge's thoughts, he gradually came to understand. He looked at Li Qingge, his eyes full of admiration and expectation. He knew that Li Qingge was a wise and strategic person, and he believed that she would be able to come up with a better way to solve the famine.
Li Qingge’s idea was quite practical. She said slowly: “We have to open warehouses quickly to provide food for emergencies. At the same time, we encourage the people to do it themselves, have enough food and clothing, and use labor to stabilize the country. In this way, we can not only solve the immediate problems Difficulties, but also long-term planning for the country.”
“That’s right. Ah, it is better to teach others how to fish than to teach them how to fish. Emperor Taizong must have understood this in his heart. These refugees were displaced due to famine, but they were not useless people. They all had hands and feet. As long as they were given a chance, they would do it. Can stand up again." A minister nodded in agreement, his eyes shining with wisdom.
“Especially those young and strong refugees, all of them are good at work. The state will first set up porridge shacks to relieve them to give them a buffer, and then organize them to open up wasteland and farm to repay the society. Planting sweet potatoes can be harvested in two months, which is fast and stable." Li Qingge's words were filled with confidence and determination, as if he had already seen the harvest.
"In two months, Emperor Taizong will definitely be able to find a way to collect food. If he can't do this, then the emperor's position is too empty." Another minister smiled. He joked, but his words revealed his trust and expectations for Taizong.
"The country and the people are interdependent, just like water can carry a ship or capsize it. Emperor Taizong is good to the people, and the people will naturally repay him with great achievements." Li Qingge's words were full of affection. and sighed, as if they had seen a bright future where the country and the people coexist harmoniously.
At this time, Emperor Taizong was sitting on the dragon throne. Listening to Li Qingge's words, he couldn't help but feel a warm current in his heart. He was surprised by Li Qingge's knowledge and wisdom, and was even more moved by her deep friendship for the country and the people. He nodded repeatedly: "Yes, yes, water can both carry and capsize a boat. It is much better to teach people to fish than to feed them directly. This is really to the point."
Thinking back to those days. , Emperor Taizong was also thinking about how to govern the country and family, but he never said this. Now it seems that what Li Qingge said is the truth, and the country and the people must complement each other in this way. His admiration for Li Qingge was beyond words, and his eyes looking at Li Qingge were a little more tender and expectant.
"Li Qingge, even though she is usually lazy, her brains are no worse than those of the counselors in the court." Emperor Taizong was so happy in his heart. He felt as if he had found a treasure, a person who could help him. The country brings treasures of infinite possibilities.
"With Li Qingge here, I feel like I have an all-powerful military advisor. With just a few words from her, she helped me solve most of my troubles." Emperor Taizong muttered silently in his heart, his trust in Li Qingge and his Dependence has become deeper and deeper.
However, at this moment, Emperor Taizong frowned again. He began to worry about the locust plague: "This locust plague is really a headache." This year's crops will be completely destroyed. This is a certainty. Even if we plant again, we have to wait until next year. But if the locusts continue to cause trouble like this, no matter how much fertile land there is, the people will go hungry.
Emperor Taizong frowned and thought about it, but he could never come up with a proper solution. He looked at the ministers, hoping that they could give a reasonable suggestion. However, the ministers all looked at each other and were at a loss to do anything.
At this moment, Emperor Taizong looked at Li Qingge again. He was even more convinced that this guy was definitely a rare talent. He believed that as long as Li Qingge was willing, she would be able to come up with a solution to the locust plague.
Li Qingge felt Emperor Taizong's gaze and couldn't help feeling a little uneasy. She secretly muttered: "Why is Taizong always staring at me? Doesn't he want me to give him advice again? Oh, the sweet potato thing is enough to give me a headache, and I don't want to get involved in this locust plague anymore. Water.”
However, despite some reluctance, Li Qingge could not ignore Emperor Taizong’s expectations and trust. She began to think seriously about the locust plague. She recalled some of the knowledge she had heard about locusts, and suddenly an idea flashed: "By the way, locusts are actually edible!"
Li Qingge himself was a little surprised when this idea came up. She quickly organized her thoughts, and then said to Emperor Taizong: "Your Majesty, I have an idea that may be able to solve the problem of locust plague."
When Emperor Taizong heard this, his eyes almost popped out: "What? Can locusts be eaten?" This was a new thing in the Tang Dynasty. He had never heard of anyone eating locusts.
"Yes, locusts are not only edible, they are also healthy and delicious. I am not lying." Li Qingge said seriously, her eyes flashed with confidence and determination, as if she had seen people rejoicing. Scene of eating locusts on the ground.
Emperor Taizong looked at Li Qingge's serious look and couldn't help but feel curiosity and expectation in his heart. He thought about what Li Qingge said before, and it all came true, so he believed her.
"Haha, interesting, so interesting..." Emperor Taizong laughed, with a bit of surprise and joy in his laughter. He turned to look at Yuchi Jingde: "General Yuchi, let's put aside the locust extermination for now. Our focus now is to guard against the Turks. As for the locust plague, let's leave it to Li Qingge to handle it. ”
Emperor Taizong's words were somewhat relaxed and confident, as if he had seen the locust plague being resolved. After hearing what Emperor Taizong said, the ministers all nodded in agreement. They believe that as long as Li Qingge is here, there is no problem that cannot be solved. For Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty, resisting the Turkic invasion was undoubtedly one of the top priorities. He often stood on the city wall, staring at the vast and mysterious land in the distance, his heart full of worry and determination. He knew that the Turkic threat was like a sharp sword hanging above his head and could fall at any time.
"Emperor Taizong is really far-sighted. He does not plan to use military force to deal with the locust plague." A minister next to him commented, his eyes full of admiration for Taizong.
"However, Taizong's thoughts are sometimes bright and sometimes dark. Now the Tang Dynasty is facing the dual difficulties of internal and external troubles. I don't know if he can handle it properly." Another minister said worriedly, his brows furrowed Lock, obviously very anxious about the current situation.
Speaking of roasting locusts, Taizong may not have thought of it. In fact, not only locusts can be roasted, but also the crops in the fields, the vegetables in the gardens, and the game in the mountains cannot be skewered and roasted. Li Qingge, a woman with a slender figure and a light of wisdom always shining in her eyes, was thinking silently in her heart, with endless aftertaste. She seemed to have smelled the aroma of barbecue and saw the joyful scene of people sitting around making skewers and enjoying the night under the starry sky.
Taizong couldn't help but swallowed after hearing this, and his thoughts drifted back to the past. At that time, he often hunted and skinned and roasted meat with his own hands. The taste was much better than the food he usually ate. He thought to himself that locusts might be as delicious as wild game.
So, Taizong said to the ministers: "My dear friends, I have an idea. The game we usually hunt is roasted and eaten. Add a little salt and it will be delicious. The fun of roasting, Much more than an everyday meal. Insects are also a kind of game. I want to try the taste of roasted locusts. If I can eat them, then roasted locusts will be promoted nationwide, which can not only solve the famine but also control the locust plague. "
As soon as these words came out, North Korea The hall immediately exploded. The ministers were whispering to each other and discussing.
"Your Majesty, you must not do this!" An old minister stood up tremblingly, his face full of worry.
“I have never heard that locusts can be eaten since ancient times. If there is a problem with eating them, it will be a disaster!” Another minister also followed suit to dissuade him.
"Your Majesty, please think twice!" The voices of the ministers became louder and louder. They were obviously shocked and puzzled by Taizong's idea.
Li Qingge muttered in his heart: "These people are really unfounded. How can roasted locusts be poisonous? Wouldn't you know if you try it on a mouse first? They have never tasted this delicacy, so naturally they don't know the beauty of it. ." She shook her head slightly, feeling a little contemptuous of the officials' incompetence.
"Emperor Zhenguan was a wise king who was good at accepting advice and revitalizing the Tang Dynasty. Why are there so many mediocre people in the court today? It really makes people laugh." Li Qingge continued to slander, with a twinkle in her eyes. Disdain and helplessness.
However, she was secretly happy: "Taizong's ideas coincided with mine, and his wisdom far surpassed that of his ministers." She looked at Taizong's firm eyes, filled with admiration and expectation.
Taizong seemed to have heard what Li Qingge was thinking, and couldn't help but laugh out loud: "This boy, he praises me and himself, what do you mean?" But he knew in his heart that although he was conceited, in this matter In fact, he is indeed more far-sighted than his ministers.
"It doesn't matter, we can try the roast goose in the palace first to see if it is safe and harmless, and then promote it nationwide." Taizong decided, his voice full of confidence and determination.
"Your Majesty, there is no conclusion yet on whether locusts can be eaten, so it is better to be cautious!" A courtier tried to dissuade him again, with a bit of anxiety and worry in his voice.
The voice of opposition sounded again in the court, and Taizong's face gradually darkened. He glanced at the ministers, and an unknown anger surged in his heart.
"You incompetent people will only hinder me! The locust plague is so serious. If we can't deal with it in time, how can we appease the people?" Taizong yelled angrily. His voice was like thunder, shocking the ministers. Terrified.
"Do you have a better way?" Taizong's eyes were blazing, and the ministers were suddenly silent. They looked at me and I looked at you, but no one dared to stand up and speak.
"Since there is no good strategy and the locust invasion is urgent, then do as I say!" Taizong said firmly. His voice was filled with undeniable firmness and determination.
The ministers looked at each other with worry evident in their expressions. They knew that once Taizong made a decision, he would never change it easily.
"Retreat!" Taizong gave the order, and the ministers retreated one after another. Only Li Qingge was left. She looked at Taizong in surprise, full of doubts and uneasiness.
"Keep me here again? What does this emperor mean? Could it be..." Li Qingge muttered in his heart. But soon she shook her head: "There must be no ill intentions, otherwise why would a woman like me be left behind? There are so many beauties in the palace, but he didn't look for them, so he kept me. It really hindered my freedom and ease!" Li Qingge thought although I am dissatisfied, but I can only say a few words of dissatisfaction. She looked into Taizong's deep eyes and felt an inexplicable emotion in her heart. She knew that the emperor must have a greater plan and vision in his heart. And she is also willing to become his think tank and assistant, and jointly contribute to the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty.
"Cheng Aiqing, do you think the idea of roasting locusts that I came up with is feasible?" Emperor Taizong asked about Li Qingge impatiently as soon as he stepped into the inner hall, his eyes twinkling. Looking forward to the light, like a child eager to show himself.
When Li Qingge heard this, he was slightly startled. Then he looked at Taizong and thought to himself: "Isn't this what I was thinking before?" Not only is it feasible, it’s simply brilliant, and it can make everyone fall in love with eating locusts! This Emperor Taizong really has my thoughts in mind. ] The corners of her mouth raised unconsciously, and a cunning light flashed in her eyes.
【Taizong and I are really becoming more and more in tune with each other. Many things he does are what I think. This throne is really not for nothing. 】Li Qingge secretly admired him and admired Taizong even more.
【I haven't said a word in the court, but Taizong has already thought of me together. It's really strange! ] She murmured secretly in her heart, surprised by Taizong's insight.
【It seems that His Majesty's governance is becoming more and more sophisticated. It is really worth celebrating! 】 Li Qingge was secretly glad that he was truly lucky to meet such a wise king.
Li Qingge's heart was racing, but what he said was to compliment the emperor: "Your Majesty is wise and powerful. Your decision is naturally in line with God's will and won the hearts of the people. We are convinced that this locust infestation will soon be over. It will be solved by you." Her voice was gentle and firm, full of trust and admiration for Taizong.
Taizong smiled and nodded, looked at Li Qingge and said, "What you said makes sense, turning harm into benefit is indeed a clever plan..." His eyes shone with admiration, and he was full of praise for Li Qingge's intelligence.
Li Qingge muttered in his heart again: [Can what I just said really make Taizong so happy? 】She looked at Taizong with some doubts, and her heart was full of confusion.
【Does Your Majesty... like men? Then I have to be careful in the future, I prefer women to men! ] She secretly murmured in her heart and had inexplicable speculation about Taizong's sexual orientation.
[Or should I say that everyone likes to hear good things, even the emperor? 】She secretly pondered in her heart and gained a deeper understanding of human nature.
Taizong saw the change in Li Qingge's expression, and a trace of displeasure flashed across his face. He didn't understand why he suspected that he was as good as Long Yang. Li Chengqian's matter has already troubled him enough, and he doesn't want this kind of misunderstanding to happen again. However, Taizong was a generous man after all and did not care about this with Li Qingge. He sighed secretly in his heart, feeling helpless at Li Qingge's misunderstanding.
Taizong changed the topic and got down to business: "Cheng Aiqing, I know that this locust plague is much more serious than expected. Yesterday, several locusts were found in the imperial garden. This is also the case in the palace. You can imagine the situation among the people. . But what officials from all over the country reported was food. There are enough, but there are a lot of refugees in Luoyang. This is obviously a case of reporting good things but not bad things. These officials know how to exaggerate their achievements and cover up their mistakes. The atmosphere is getting worse and worse." His voice was full of worry and helplessness towards the officials. Feeling angry and disappointed about the deceptive behavior.
Speaking of this, Taizong sighed, his face full of worry. His eyes revealed his deep concern for the country and his deep concern for the people.
Li Qingge listened and murmured in his heart: [These officials are so far away from Luoyang, how can they know the real situation? Naturally, when they reported it, they said it in a nice way. Telling the truth is afraid of making the emperor unhappy, exaggerating is the way to save your life! ] She was dissatisfied and despised for the hypocritical behavior of officials.
Taizong seemed to be able to hear Li Qingge's thoughts and secretly admired him. Although he did not directly participate in government affairs, he saw the issues sharply. He was really an extraordinary character. He admired secretly in his heart, feeling surprised and appreciative of Li Qingge's insight.
【What's going on with Taizong's look? Why is it so ambiguous! ] Li Qingge muttered secretly, feeling confused and uneasy about Taizong's eyes. She smiled awkwardly, trying to hide her discomfort.
[It’s scary, it’s better to stay away from him in the future! ] She secretly decided to keep a certain distance from Taizong to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
......
Taizong also knew that this misunderstanding was not easy to resolve, so he could only shake his head helplessly. He sighed secretly in his heart, feeling helpless and regretful about Li Qingge's misunderstanding.
"Cheng Aiqing, do you have any good solution to this kind of behavior of officials deceiving superiors and concealing subordinates?" Taizong asked Li Qingge, his eyes revealed expectation and trust.
Li Qingge was stunned for a moment, then thought about it and said, "Your Majesty is wise and powerful, so he can naturally come up with good ideas. I am a humble minister who is not very talented and has little knowledge, so I dare not say anything casually." Her voice was gentle and humble, Full of respect and admiration for Taizong. However, she continued to complain in her heart.
[This problem cannot be solved overnight! ] She muttered secretly in her heart, feeling helpless at the complexity of the problem.
[Two days ago, that guy Meng Lingsheng also falsely reported grain output, saying it was five million denier, but in fact it was only more than 2 million dan, which was more than double the false report! ] She was secretly angry in her heart, feeling dissatisfied and contemptuous of Meng Lingsheng's hypocritical behavior.
【If the people above are not upright, the people below will also follow suit. The severity of this famine is probably far beyond your Majesty's imagination! 】 She was secretly worried, worried and uneasy about the future of the country.
When Taizong heard about Meng Lingsheng, he was shocked and became furious. Meng Lingsheng has always been known for his integrity, but he didn't expect that he would do such things as deceiving the emperor. It's really unbelievable. His eyes revealed anger and disappointment, and he felt heartbroken by Meng Lingsheng's betrayal.
【This trend must not be allowed to spread! We must severely punish and serve as a warning to others! 】Taizong secretly vowed in his heart that he must rectify the rules of the court and restore a clear and bright world to the world. His eyes revealed firmness and determination, full of confidence and expectations for the country's future.
Taizong knew in his heart that this matter was not easy to handle, but he still followed the topic and tried to slowly express his doubts. His eyes were deep, as if he could see everything, but they hid unspeakable worries. After he finished speaking, he turned to look at Li Qingge, his eyes seeming to be seeking a resonance, or waiting for her to say something to solve the mystery in his heart.
Li Qingge, a gentle and intelligent female minister, is dressed in elegant official uniform and has a heroic spirit between her brows. She was well aware of Taizong's doubts, but deliberately pretended not to know, and asked softly: "Your Majesty, I heard that Meng Lingda has always been known for his integrity and has no selfish thoughts. Is there any special reason why Your Majesty suddenly mentioned him? ?" Her voice was soft, but with a hint of subtlety.
She secretly thought: [I originally thought I could hide this from Taizong, but I didn’t expect that he is not that easy to fool! It seems that I have to be more careful. ] Her eyes flickered, and her heart was full of mixed feelings.
【Looking at Taizong's expression again, something seems wrong, and his mood swings are quite big. Accompanying a king is like accompanying a tiger. The emperor's thoughts are truly unfathomable. ] She sighed secretly in her heart, feeling a little helpless at Taizong's complicated mood.
When Taizong heard the sentence "Accompanying a king is like accompanying a tiger", although he felt it was a bit exaggerated, he did not show it on his face. He continued the topic just now, with a hint of heaviness in his tone: "Meng Lingda The report said that the state treasury had five million denier of food, but in fact it only had 2 million denier, a deficit of 3 million denier. This is more than half of the amount!”
Speaking of this, Taizong's face darkened and he was obviously very angry. There was a betrayal of anger in his eyes, as if the loss of three million denier of food was a provocation to his imperial majesty.
“He actually lied to me and got three million more grains out of thin air. If I hadn’t checked it out myself, I would have thought that there was so much grain to formulate national policies, and the consequences would have been serious. I must punish him severely!" There was unquestionable determination in Taizong's voice.
Li Qingge was listening, comforting Taizong with his mouth, but he kept complaining in his heart. There was a hint of helplessness and worry in her eyes.
[Taizong was too impulsive to do this. Meng Lingda had a good reputation among the people. Killing him suddenly would probably cause turmoil in the court. What's more, killing is not a good way to solve the problem! ] She sighed secretly in her heart, feeling a little dissatisfied with Taizong's decision.
[He is so angry now, probably because the amount of food is incorrect and he is anxious. But killing someone is not a good idea! Taizong, this kid, was quite smart before, but now he is confused again. ] Her heart was filled with worries and confusion about Taizong.
...
Taizong looked at Li Qingge and said nothing. He is the emperor, but he is secretly ridiculed by a minister. This kind of situation is really rare. He calmed down and thought about it, and realized that his decision just now was indeed a bit impulsive. Although Meng Lingda was at fault, he was not punishable by death.
He sighed softly, with a look of exhaustion and helplessness in his eyes. He looked at Li Qingge, as if seeking some kind of comfort or understanding.
“Maybe he had good intentions, but it was just because the amount of food was so shocking that I was caught off guard. I originally thought that the food in the treasury was enough to feed the victims for a year, but I didn’t expect that it would only last half a year. If we encounter it again Drought and floods, what can we do?" Taizong's voice was filled with worry and confusion.
Li Qingge became serious when he saw Taizong like this. She was well aware of Taizong's worries and understood that the country's future rested on his shoulders. She replied softly: "Your Majesty, I am stupid and don't have any good strategies. But now we can only do it step by step. Your Majesty, don't worry, famine is not formed in a day, and the trend of exaggeration cannot be eliminated at once. Your Majesty, you are destined to be blessed by God. Good luck and good fortune will definitely come to you.”
Her voice was soft but firm, as if she was injecting strength into Taizong. There was a kind of trust and admiration in her eyes, which made Taizong feel a little warm and comforted.
After Li Qingge finished speaking, he was still thinking: [The trend of exaggeration has been around for a long time. The Supreme Emperor had it at that time. It was a good thing that Taizong discovered this problem only two years after he took the throne. But I don’t know what the effect of his treatment will be. 】Her heart is full of expectations and worries about the future.
【Looking at Taizong's current attitude, it seems that he no longer wants to kill Meng Lingda. Although Meng Lingda deceived the emperor, it would be useless to kill him. Instead, it would make everyone more afraid of telling the truth. 】She felt a little relieved about Taizong's change in her heart.
"I am impatient. This matter must be dealt with slowly. How can I be afraid of those locusts and drought!" Taizong's eyes became firm, as if he was swearing to himself. There was an undeniable determination and courage in his tone.
Then he looked at Li Qingge and said, "Cheng Qing, do you have any good suggestions about Meng Lingda?" There was a kind of expectation and trust in his eyes, as if he was seeking Li Qingge’s wisdom and help.
Li Qingge looked at Taizong's expectant eyes and secretly sighed: "Why do you ask me everything?" Is Taizong so dependent on me now? What I said was nothing substantial. ] Her heart was filled with helplessness and self-deprecation towards Taizong.
[Could it be that Taizong liked this kind of ambiguous answer? His interests are really special. ] She felt a little curious and puzzled about Taizong's preferences.
Although he kept complaining in his heart, since Taizong asked, Li Qingge still had to answer. She smiled slightly, with a kind of gentleness and wisdom in her smile: "Your Majesty, how to deal with this matter depends entirely on His Majesty's decree. I firmly believe that Your Majesty is wise and will be able to make the most appropriate decision." Her voice sounded. Soft yet firm, it seemed to be instilling confidence in Taizong.
(End of this chapter)