After my inner voice was eavesdropped, I became the favorite of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 8

"No wonder the emperor dotes on Lord Cheng so much. Such a contribution is truly unprecedented and hard to match!" exclaimed a minister, his eyes full of admiration and envy.

"This sweet potato tastes really good, but to say it is unprecedented may be a bit of an exaggeration. We have to wait until it is planted on a large scale and we can yield a thousand kilograms per acre. That would be considered a real achievement." Another minister seemed more cautious, with a hint of reservation in his words.

"Lord Cheng is so sure, it must not be groundless. It is understandable that the emperor is so excited." A young minister interrupted, his face full of admiration for Lord Cheng.

"Yes, yes, Lord Cheng is indeed the genius that the emperor said. I misjudged him before. I am so ashamed!" A minister who had misunderstood Lord Cheng before sighed, his tone full of self-blame and regret.

In the court, everyone was talking about it. At first, there were some small discussions, but soon they all turned to look at Cheng with new eyes. They felt that the emperor favored and valued her because she was really capable.

"I will leave this sweet potato to you two, Cheng Qing and Yu Qing, to promote it vigorously. I believe that in the near future, the entire Chang'an City and the entire Tang Dynasty will be completely renewed because of it!" Li Shimin said, his eyes flashing with excitement. He seemed to have seen the beautiful scene of sweet potatoes being widely planted in the Tang Dynasty and the people living and working in peace and contentment. Seeing that the ministers had no objections, he announced his withdrawal from the court.

Cheng Shangren Li Qingge, a tall and pretty woman, looked heroic in her official uniform. She looked helplessly at Yu Shinan beside her, and 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 they would distribute good things to fill their stomachs at the city gate in three days.

As soon as the news came out, the people of Chang'an were in an uproar. They came out of their homes and gathered together to discuss the matter.

"I wonder what good stuff it could be?" a woman in coarse clothes asked curiously.

"Is it food?" a thin man said expectantly, "If it is food, that would be great! I feel sad when I think of my mother who died of hunger."

"Your Majesty is merciful. Since the notice has been posted, it must be good news." An old man comforted everyone.

After seeing the notice, the common people in Chang'an talked about it and hoped to receive food. They speculated what good things the emperor would give them, and their faces showed expectations and excitement.

In the palace, Li Shimin's confidant came to report: "Your Majesty, Li Yi is indeed plotting a rebellion and is gathering troops. I'm afraid he's about to take action."

"Okay, I got it. When the evidence is solid, have his people send Li Yi's head to me! How can I allow others to covet my kingdom!" Li Shimin said, with a resolute expression on his face. His eyes revealed firm determination and unquestionable majesty.

"Yes!" The secret guards took the order and began to quietly make plans. They knew that this was a contest related to the safety of the country and they dared not slack off.

Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair and said to himself, "You really can't underestimate Cheng Qing." Although he was surprised that he could hear Cheng Qing's thoughts, he also thought it was interesting to have her around to help. Now that Cheng Qing's words have come true one by one, he is surprised and a little worried. He thought about what Cheng Qing said in the court, and his heart was filled with waves. The prince has a preference for Long Yang? And he was injured recently? These two things were like two big stones pressing on Li Shimin's chest, making him very unhappy. He was worried that the prince's behavior would affect the future of the country, and he was also worried that Cheng Qing's prediction would come true.

Just as Li Shimin was immersed in worry, a young eunuch ran in in a panic and reported: "Your Majesty, urgent news! The prince fell off his horse while hunting and was seriously injured!"

"What's the matter?" Li Shimin asked in confusion. He had an ominous premonition in his heart. Could it be that Cheng Qing's prediction really came true?
"The horse the prince was riding was frightened, and the prince fell off the horse and became unconscious. He has been sent back to the palace for treatment." The young eunuch replied in a trembling voice.

Li Shimin stood up suddenly and walked quickly towards the prince's residence. His heart was filled with worry and uneasiness, not knowing how badly the prince was injured.

When he arrived at the prince's residence, he saw that the prince was unconscious and the palace was surrounded by imperial doctors. Li Shimin's heart sank as heavy as lead. Could it be that Cheng Qing had predicted that the prince would be 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 physician in a deep voice. There was a hint of trembling and uneasiness in his voice. He was afraid of hearing bad news.

The imperial doctors looked at each other, and finally an elderly one stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, we have done our best to treat the prince, and his life is not in danger. But..." He stopped here, unable to say the rest, and didn't know how to say it.

"But what?" Li Shimin asked sharply. He had a bad feeling in his heart, but still hoped to hear good news.

"The prince's right leg is broken and his ankle is also seriously injured. Although it can be cured, whether he can move freely like before depends on God's will." After saying this, the imperial physician bowed and withdrew.

Li Shimin waved his hand to let the imperial doctors leave, and faced the unconscious prince alone, sighing for a long time. He looked at the prince's pale face and closed eyes, and his heart was filled with pain and helplessness. He didn't know what he could do to help the prince get through this difficult time, nor did he know what the prince's future would be like. He could only pray silently, hoping that the prince would recover soon and stand up again.

On the other hand, the promotion of sweet potatoes went very smoothly. On the third day, the people gathered at the city gate. Cheng Qing and his team distributed sweet potatoes according to the number of households, and they were all distributed quickly. Then, they also taught everyone how to grow sweet potatoes.

Hearing that sweet potatoes have a high yield and were recommended by the emperor, the common people were a little skeptical, but thinking of the emperor's kindness, they were willing to give it a try. They took the sweet potato seeds, listened to Cheng Qing and Yu Shinan's explanations, and carefully learned the planting techniques. They believed in the emperor and the Tang Dynasty, and believed that the sweet potatoes could bring them a good harvest and hope.

"I was worried that it would take a lot of effort, but it went so smoothly." Cheng Qing was secretly happy. He turned to look at Yu Shinan and saw that he was still excited, so he reminded him: "Mr. Yu, the matter has been explained. We can go back now."

After saying that, she stood up and prepared to leave. Her figure was particularly eye-catching as she moved among the crowd. Her eyes revealed determination and confidence, as if she had seen the beautiful scene of sweet potatoes being widely planted in the Tang Dynasty.

"Xiao Mu." Yu Shinan suddenly grabbed her sleeve and asked nervously, "Can they really grow it well?" He was worried that the people would eat all the sweet potatoes out of greed and delay the important planting event.

"Don't worry, they believe in us, and they believe in the Tang Dynasty even more." Cheng Qing answered casually, and then left the Prince's Mansion and returned to her home. After a busy day, she was exhausted. 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 fatigue and relaxation, as if she had forgotten the disputes in the court and the prince's affairs. She just wanted to have a good rest and enjoy her own time.

Two days later, the city of Chang'an was in an uproar. Li Yi had actually started a rebellion! The news spread like wildfire throughout the streets and alleys, and people were panicking and talking about it. However, before Li Yi led his troops to the city, he was killed by his own confidants, and his head was sent to the gate of the palace by a fast horse.

"Report——"

The urgent report was like the sound of a drum, shaking the gate of the palace. A guard rushed in, sweating profusely, his face pale, his eyes revealing tension and anxiety.

"What's so urgent?"

Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair, looking at the guard panting like a dog, holding a wooden box in his hand, and asked casually. He had a bad feeling in his heart, but he still kept calm on his face.

"Your Majesty, Li Yi raised an army outside the city, but was chopped off by his left and right guards. Here is his head. Please take a look, Your Majesty."

After the guard finished speaking, there was an uproar in the court. The ministers were talking to each other.

"Oh my, this is really happening!"

"Li Yi is usually not honest, I didn't expect him to be so ambitious!"

"Human greed is like a snake swallowing an elephant. How sad and lamentable!"

Li Shimin waved his hand and asked everyone to be quiet. He frowned, and then asked the guards to present the head. The guards stepped forward and carefully opened the wooden box. Li Shimin looked inside and saw that it was indeed Li Yi's dead face, without any sound. He frowned, closed his eyes, and a complex emotion surged in his heart. Seeing this, the guards quickly retreated.

[I thought this matter would take 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 this minor illness earlier, she wouldn't have ended up like this! ]

[Even during the heyday of the Tang Dynasty, bloodshed and sacrifice were inevitable. It was really helpless. 】

[If you pursue fame and fortune all your life, you will end up with nothing but dirt. It is better to cherish the present and enjoy life! ]

Li Qingge stood in a corner of the court, muttering to herself. She was wearing a light blue official uniform, tall, pretty, and her eyes revealed wisdom and calmness. Somehow these words reached Li Shimin's ears, shocking him again. He turned to look at Li Qingge, with a complex emotion in his heart. He admired Li Qingge's wisdom and felt sorry for Empress Changsun's misfortune.

"My most beloved Empress Changsun is not going to live long." Li Shimin sighed in his heart, "She has worked too much over the years, it's all my fault. If I had known this would happen, I would have let her have a good rest." Thinking of this, he decided to take good care of Empress Changsun in the future and fulfill his responsibilities as a husband.

Li Shimin's heart was in turmoil. He turned to his ministers and asked, "What should we do with Li Yi's family?" There was a hint of fatigue and helplessness in his voice.

"Your Majesty, Li Yi is plotting a rebellion, and his entire clan should be exterminated to prevent retaliation and stabilize the government!" A minister stood up and said righteously. Other ministers also echoed and expressed their agreement.

[Punish the entire clan? This is too cruel! There are dozens of people in the family, and what about the innocent women and children? Just exile them, confiscate their weapons, and never allow them to return to Beijing. This way, they won't be able to cause any trouble!] Li Qingge muttered to herself. Although she was a woman, she had 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 rule, he still couldn't bear to kill people. He was silent for a while, then slowly said: "Issue the decree: Li Yi's subordinates will be incorporated into Li Qingge's command; family members and women will be exiled to the frontier and will never return to Luoyang." There was a hint of majesty and unquestionable in his voice.

The ministers in the court nodded in agreement, and admired Li Shimin's generosity. They knew that the current situation did not allow for any more killings. Li Shimin's choice was wise and merciful.

[Li Shimin is a very broad-minded guy.] Li Qingge complained in her heart, [He knows what I am thinking? This guy looks silly at ordinary times, but he is quite clear-headed 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 broad-minded emperor.

Not long after the court was dismissed, news came that the prince had regained consciousness. Li Shimin dragged Li Qingge to the prince's residence without saying a word. He looked anxious and worried, and was obviously very concerned about the prince's injury.

[Why are you dragging me along? Your son's illness has nothing to do with me!] Li Qingge kept complaining along the way, [I just praised him for not being stupid, but now he's being stupid again! Li Chengqian and I have nothing to do with each other, why are you dragging me along? Are you out of your mind!] Although she complained, she understood Li Shimin's intention in her heart. She knew that Li Shimin hoped that she could help check the prince's injuries and give some advice.

Arriving at the Prince's Mansion, Li Qingge saw Li Chengqian lying on the bed with a blank look in his eyes, completely different from the way he was in the morning meeting. Seeing Li Shimin coming, he tried to get up and salute. But Li Shimin held him down and told him to lie down.

"I have no feeling in my legs. I am afraid I am disabled." Li Chengqian asked cautiously, looking at Li Shimin's face. There was a trace of trembling and uneasiness in his voice. He knew that his position was noble but also dangerous. What would he do if he was really disabled?

"The imperial physician has checked and it's fine. You just need to take good care of your injuries." Li Shimin comforted him. There was a hint of tenderness and concern in his voice. He knew Li Chengqian was worried and uneasy, but he also believed in the imperial physician's medical skills and judgment.

[What are you worried about? There are so many actors in the mansion to entertain you. Even if your leg is lame, it won't affect the overall situation.] Li Qingge was secretly happy in her heart. She didn't have any feelings for Li Chengqian, but she was quite curious about Li Shimin's expression. She wanted to know how he would react after knowing the truth. Because she knew that Crown Prince Li Chengqian was not a simple character. There were complex political forces and conspiracies behind him. And all of this will gradually surface in the days to come.

Li Shimin's Heart Knot
Li Shimin never thought that his beloved son would be on the verge of rebellion! Although this had not really happened yet, he was still shocked when he heard Li Qingge say this. He looked at Li Chengqian again, with anger and confusion in his eyes. How could this son, who had always been docile, have such thoughts?
"Grandpa." Li Chengqian was confused, thinking 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, and why Grandpa looked at him like that.

"Prince, have a good rest. I will come to see you another day." Li Shimin turned around and left, his mind was in a mess, not knowing what to do. He walked out of the Prince's Mansion with heavy steps and mixed feelings. He could never have imagined that his beloved son would have the idea of ​​​​rebellion. This made him feel sad and made him begin to doubt his own way of education.

Li Qingge followed behind, muttering in her heart: "What on earth is Li Shimin thinking? Isn't he here to meet his stupid son Li Chengqian? But he doesn't say a word after meeting him!" She shook her head, puzzled by Li Shimin's behavior. But she also knew that this was a family affair of the royal family, and it was not appropriate for her, 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 and turned to leave. Although she was a female official, she was also a person who knew how to enjoy life. She knew that she couldn't control these royal affairs, nor did she want to control them.

Li Shimin became even more annoyed when he heard Li Qingge's complaints. Li Qingge was still only thinking about herself at this time and didn't take the emperor seriously at all. But he couldn't do anything about 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 flies, Li Chengqian's injury slowly recovered, but his tendons and bones were injured, and his right leg became lame. His temperament became more and more dull, no longer as lively and cheerful as before. He stayed in the prince's mansion all day, rarely went out, and rarely communicated with others.

Li Shimin began to worry about the issue of the crown prince. He knew that Li Chengqian's leg injury might affect his position and even the future of the Tang Dynasty. He began to consider whether to abolish Li Chengqian's position as crown prince and choose someone else.

[Li Shimin is so 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 her heart, [The prince's fate is mediocre. It can't be changed by having two healthy legs.] She shook her head, puzzled by Li Shimin's worries. She knew that the history books said that the prince was a hopeless person. Even if his legs were not injured, he would not be able to take on important responsibilities.

[He should think more about national affairs. The drought and the Turkic issue are urgent, so he doesn't have time to care about these things.] Li Qingge continued to complain in his heart, [The prince's character is simply not enough to support the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty. If he is allowed to take power, it will be a disaster. Decades of hard work will go down the drain, and the Tang Dynasty will inevitably decline.]

In the court, Li Qingge saw Li Shimin worrying about the prince, and knew that he was thinking about this again. She didn't have any feelings for Li Chengqian, and she knew that the history books said that the prince was a hopeless person. She shook her head, feeling helpless about Li Shimin's worries.

Li Shimin heard Li Qingge's words, and he withdrew his thoughts and was shocked. "Yes, although Chengqian did not make any big mistakes, his ability is indeed average. Can we hand over the Tang Dynasty to him?" He began to doubt his decision, whether he really wanted to abolish Li Chengqian's position as the crown prince.

He knew in his heart that Cheng Qian was not fit to be an emperor, but considering that he was the eldest son born to Empress Changsun, he could not help but favor him. He thought of Empress Changsun's gentleness and virtue, and felt a pang of sadness in his heart. 'I hope Cheng Qian can do better in the future and not disappoint 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 troubles recently, and he himself was a little shaken. In addition, although his eldest brother Li Jiancheng had been dead for more than a year, his remnants were still there, making him feel uneasy. He began to consider whether to take some measures to consolidate his position and lay a solid foundation for the future of the Tang Dynasty.

"If there is nothing else, let's go!" Li Shimin waved his hand and prepared to leave. He didn't want to discuss the prince's affairs anymore, because every discussion would make him upset.

"Your Majesty, something bad has happened!" A young eunuch ran in hurriedly, breaking the silence in the court.

Li Shimin suppressed his anger and asked, "What's the urgent matter? Tell me quickly!" He looked at the young eunuch, a hint of displeasure flashing in his eyes.

"The Queen has fainted, and the maid found blood on her handkerchief." said the young eunuch in a trembling voice.

[She is coughing up blood. I am afraid that Empress Changsun may not live long.] Li Qingge sighed inwardly, [People at that time had poor living conditions and underdeveloped medical technology, so their life spans were short.] She began to worry about Empress Changsun's condition.

[Li Shimin himself died in the 23rd year of Zhenguan, but he lived a few years longer than Empress Changsun.] Li Qingge continued to think in her heart, [Fortunately, he didn't take care of things in his later years and witnessed the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty with his own eyes. If he had lived a few more decades, he might have ruined his foundation!] She began to worry about Li Shimin's future.

When Li Qingge heard that Empress Changsun was coughing up blood, she felt mixed emotions. Although she had little contact with Empress Changsun, she knew that she was a gentle and virtuous woman, and a virtuous empress of the Tang Dynasty. She began to feel anxious about Empress Changsun's condition.

"Let's go!" Li Shimin pulled Li Qingge towards the Queen's bedroom. He was extremely anxious and just wanted to see Empress Changsun as soon as possible to confirm her safety.

On the way, Li Shimin was confused: "The queen is still young, how could it be like Qingge said, she is going to die?" He began to doubt his judgment, whether it was really as Li Qingge said, that Empress Changsun's time was running out.

"The queen used to be in good health, but she became sick because she worked too hard after I ascended the throne. How could this happen?" He began to blame himself, thinking that it was because he made the queen work too hard that she fell ill.

"Qingge said that I would die in the 23rd year of Zhenguan, and would be incompetent and unjust in my later years. How is that possible?" He began to doubt Li Qingge's words, thinking that he was still young and strong and it was impossible for him to die so early.

"I only hope to live to the age of 22 and see the prosperity 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 collected his thoughts. The most important thing now was the safety of the queen. He quickened his pace, just wanting to see the queen as soon as possible.

"My queen, you are the person I care about most since I ascended the throne. Please don't let anything happen to you!" He prayed silently in his heart, hoping that Empress Changsun would be safe.

Li Qingge followed behind, looking at Li Shimin's anxious back, and she was filled with emotion. She knew the position of Empress Changsun in Li Shimin's heart, and also knew his anxiety and worry at the moment. She began to feel more worried about Empress Changsun's condition, and also a little worried about Li Shimin's future.

"Empress Changsun is seriously ill and she's dragging me along! Cheng Qian did the same thing last time! What do I have to do with them? Why are you bringing me along? It would be better to call the crown prince. The mother and son can meet, and the queen will be in a better mood." Li Qingge complained in her heart, but she still quickened her pace and followed Li Shimin to the queen's bedroom. She knew that Li Shimin needed her company and support at this moment.

"Call Li Chengqian here. My mother is so seriously ill, how can a son not take care of her by her bedside?" Li Shimin's tone was unquestionable determination. His eyes revealed his deep concern for the empress and a slight reproach for the prince for not being filial.

When he reached the door of the palace, Li Shimin suddenly stopped, turned around and said to the attendant: "Go." The attendant responded, bowed hastily, and ran to invite Li Chengqian. The sun shone through the clouds and sprinkled on the magnificent palace, but it seemed unable to dispel the worries in Li Shimin's heart.

[It's really strange. I just thought about it, and Li Shimin actually did it.] Qingge thought, [This guy seems to be able to read minds. But, if an emperor can't even guess this kind of thoughts, then he is really mediocre.] She tilted her head slightly, with a hint of amusement in her eyes, as if she had a faint curiosity and alienation towards everything in the world. [Who cares? Li Shimin can do whatever he wants. I will leave after I finish my job.]

Qingge didn't think much about it and followed Li Shimin into the bedroom. Inside the bedroom, light gauze danced gracefully, fragrance lingered, and there was a sense of tranquility and peace, completely different from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Li Shimin was actually a little embarrassed, thinking secretly: "As a monarch, I can't even do such a small thing, then I am really a mediocre person." He secretly glanced at Qingge, wondering whether Qingge's words were a compliment or an insult to him. Qingge's face was calm, but there seemed to be thousands of words hidden in her eyes, which made him unpredictable. [Forget it, the queen is more important, I am not the kind of person who cares about every little thing. ]

As they were thinking this, they had already walked to the main hall. Inside the hall, the candlelight flickered, illuminating the ancient murals, which seemed to tell the vicissitudes of a thousand years.

"Your Majesty! Your Majesty!" When the palace maids saw the emperor coming, they shouted in unison, their voices filled with awe and joy. They saluted one after another, their movements in unison, like a flowing painting.

Li Shimin nodded slightly in response, and his eyes swept over the palace maids, and an inexplicable feeling welled up in his heart. Time flies, and these palace maids have accompanied him for many years. Now that the queen is seriously ill, he feels even more ruthless about time.

At this time, the queen had woken up. She sat on the bed, her face pale, but her eyes revealed a kind of tenacity and tenderness. Seeing the emperor suddenly appear in front of her, a hint of surprise flashed in her eyes. "Your Majesty." Her voice was weak and feeble 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, please have a good rest and don't bother with these empty formalities." He gently pressed the queen's shoulders to make her lean more comfortably.

The queen lay down as she was told and sighed softly: "I have fainted twice in the past half month. I'm afraid my body can't hold on for much longer." There was a hint of helplessness and sadness in her tone, but more of it was her deep attachment to her husband and son.

Li Shimin held the queen's hand tightly and said firmly: "Queen, please don't say such unlucky words. You will stay with me as long as I live. We will live together to be a hundred years old." There was unquestionable determination in his voice, as if he wanted to keep all illness and misfortune out of the door.

The Queen knew that she did not have much time left, and said worriedly, "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 fit to be an emperor. If he makes any mistakes in the future, I hope Your Majesty will remember me and forgive him." Tears flashed in her eyes, which showed her deep worry and reluctance for the future.

Li Shimin felt a pang of pain in his heart when he heard this. He gently stroked the queen's hand, as if he wanted to pass all his comfort and strength to her. "Queen..." he called softly, but was choked with sobs and could not speak.

"Cheng Qian is also my son, and I will definitely treat him well. It doesn't matter if he is mediocre in talent. As long as he is willing to make progress, work hard, and doesn't have unrealistic ideas, the position of crown prince will still be his." Li Shimin solemnly promised, with an unquestionable majesty and kindness in his voice.

"Thank you, Your Majesty." The Queen felt a little relieved after hearing this. She closed her eyes, as if to deeply imprint this promise in her heart.

As a mother, the Queen's love for her son is deep and long-lasting. She is worried about Cheng Qian's future and hopes that he can live well even if she is gone. This love transcends life and death and power, and she only wishes her son peace and success.

[What a pity, Cheng Qian's parents are not ordinary people, why is their son so useless! ] Qingge sighed secretly in her heart. She looked at the Queen and Li Shimin with deep eyes, as if she could penetrate the mist of time. [Although you are worried about him, he may not appreciate it. Moreover, this guy has a homosexual habit and will soon do something as big as rebellion! ] Her heart was filled with helplessness and emotion about fate.

[Empress Changsun's illness was probably caused by her worrying too much about her son. Although she coughs badly, if she has good medicine and takes good care of herself, she might be able to live a few more years.] Qingge thought as she noticed Li Chengqian who had just come in. He walked hurriedly, with a hint of panic and anxiety in his eyes.

"Mother, Grandfather." Li Chengqian bowed respectfully, but when he saw Qingge, a hint of hostility flashed in his eyes. His eyes were full of vigilance and dissatisfaction with this woman who suddenly appeared in his life.

Qingge ignored Li Chengqian's hostility and just stared at him quietly. Her eyes were calm and deep, as if she could see through people's hearts. [Why is this stupid prince staring at me? I haven't offended him! ] Qingge felt a little helpless, [I didn't come here voluntarily. I am the eldest son of the Cheng family, not the emperor's son. How can I compete with him for the throne? Even if he wants to give me the throne, I don't want it. No wonder he was abolished in the end. He has no tolerance at all. ]

The queen called Cheng Qian gently. Although her voice was weak, it was full of the warmth of motherly love. "Cheng Qian, you have lost weight recently. Don't play around all the time. You must study hard to live up to your grandfather's expectations." She said earnestly, and every word was full of earnest expectations for her son.

Although Cheng Qian was impatient to listen, he still respected and loved the queen and responded respectfully. He felt an inexplicable sense of guilt and self-blame in his heart, as if he realized that he had not fulfilled his due filial piety.

[True filial piety should be to accompany the mother at all times, rather than waiting to be summoned.] Qingge secretly evaluated Chengqian's filial piety in her heart, [But then again, it would be a good thing if his illness could be alleviated. I remember that my roommate had a severe cough in college, and his mother asked an old Chinese doctor to prescribe a prescription...]

A prescription suddenly flashed through Qingge's mind: [6 qian of dried tangerine peel, 10 qian of codonopsis, 10 qian of dendrobium, 9 qian of ophiopogon, 6 qian of licorice, 10 qian of honeysuckle, 2 qian of knotweed, simmer for two hours, take once in the morning and evening, and you should see the effect within two weeks.] She had an inexplicable urge to tell the queen about this prescription, but she hesitated whether she should intervene in the course of history.

[If Empress Changsun could drink this medicine, she might really live a few more years. But why should I do this? History has already determined that she will die sooner or later, and it has nothing to do with me.] Although Qingge thought so in her heart, her eyes revealed a hint of complicated emotions. She looked at the pale face of the empress, and an inexplicable pity and helplessness surged in her heart.

Li Qingge was afraid of trouble, worried that once she opened her mouth, the emperor would keep asking questions, especially since he had no interest in Li Chengqian's affairs. 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, as if Li Shimin, who could see through people's hearts, saw her thoughts, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief, thinking that since Empress Changsun's illness could still be cured, even if she could live a few more years, it would be great. He silently memorized the prescription and planned to try it carefully, with an inexplicable gratitude and expectation in his heart.

In the countryside, everyone worked hard for more than half a month, and finally the sweet potato seedlings sprouted tender green shoots. When the news reached the palace, the whole court was filled with joy, as if the entire palace was infected by this joyful atmosphere.

"That's great! As long as we keep the water sufficient, we will definitely have a bumper harvest this year!" said a minister 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 replied, with a gleam of hope in his eyes.

"We're just waiting for the autumn harvest!" More people echoed, and the court was as lively as the New Year. Although the results have not yet been seen, the joy of innovation has made everyone excited, as if it indicates that the Tang Dynasty is about to usher in an unprecedented year of harvest.

Li Shimin sat on the dragon chair, and the corners of his mouth could not help but rise. He looked around at the ministers in the court, and an inexplicable sense of relief and pride surged in his heart. However, in this joy, he also noticed the indifference and detachment in Li Qingge's heart.

[What's so special about this little achievement of a countryman? I know a lot of crops, and all of them produce thousands of kilograms.] Li Qingge muttered to herself, her eyes revealing 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 their leaves are also delicious. Stir-fry them and add some salt, and they taste amazing!] She continued to complain in her heart, with a playful smile on her lips, as if she found the ignorance and shallowness of these ministers funny.

[I am too lazy to tell you all this. There are so many things in the world. I have been tormented for several days just because of this potato. If I knew something else, how would I have time to have fun!] She complained secretly in her heart, and her eyes revealed a kind of helplessness and irritability, as if she was bored and tired of these trivial matters of government.

When Li Shimin heard these complaints, he laughed in his heart: "This kid really has something in his head, he is not an ordinary person." He looked at Li Qingge with admiration, with an inexplicable light flashing in his eyes, as if he had special expectations and regard for her.

"I heard that wheat can produce 1,000 kilograms. That's amazing! And sweet potato leaves are edible. I was so ignorant of this. We must encourage people to speak freely and learn from other countries' strengths 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, his eyes flashing with expectation and respect: "Don't hide what's in your head." There was an unquestionable majesty and kindness in his words, as if he had special expectations and trust in Li Qingge.

Li Shimin was in a good mood, with all his worries forgotten. After leaving the court, he deliberately kept Li Qingge to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the imperial garden with her.

[Why does Li Shimin keep looking for me? Does he have any special thoughts about me?] Li Qingge muttered to herself, her eyes revealing a kind of vigilance and alertness, as if she was puzzled and puzzled by Li Shimin's actions.

[I don’t like men. There are so many beautiful maids in the Cheng Mansion, who are better than him!] She continued to complain in her heart, with a playful smile on her lips, as if she found Li Shimin’s sexual orientation funny and disdainful.

[Terrible!] She secretly exclaimed in her heart, her eyes revealing a kind of helplessness and irritability, as if she was fed up and annoyed with Li Shimin's entanglement.

However, Li Shimin heard Li Qingge's thoughts and almost laughed out loud. This kid always doubts his sexual orientation, which is really ridiculous. He is a tall and handsome man with many children and grandchildren, how could he have such a ridiculous idea. He shook his head and invited with a smile: "Qingge, accompany me to the Imperial Garden for a walk." There was an unquestionable majesty and kindness in his voice, as if he valued and expected Li Qingge in a different way.

"As ordered." Although Li Qingge wanted to go home and enjoy her leisure time, she did not dare to disobey the order. She sighed helplessly and followed Li Shimin into the Imperial Garden. The Imperial Garden was filled with the fragrance of flowers and shaded by green trees, like a paradise on earth. However, Li Qingge had no intention of appreciating these beautiful views. Her heart was filled with a desire for freedom and a weariness of government affairs.

As they walked and talked, Li Shimin casually asked, "How old are you this year?" There was concern and kindness in his voice, as if he was full of expectations for Li Qingge's growth and future.

"Sixteen." Li Qingge thought for a moment and answered. Her voice was indifferent and detached, 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 so promising at a young age, you are really a genius! It's time to think about marriage, do you have a girl you like?" Li Shimin asked meaningfully, silently responding to Li Qingge's previous misunderstanding. His eyes flashed with expectation and care, as if he had a special concern and expectation for Li Qingge's marriage.

"Thank you for your concern, Your Majesty. I am still young and should focus on state affairs and put personal feelings aside for the time being." Li Qingge's answer was exactly what Li Shimin wanted. He stroked his beard and laughed. His laughter was full of relief and pride, as if he was satisfied and appreciative of Li Qingge's understanding and maturity.

"Well done! A man should have great ambitions. 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 were full of firmness and determination, as if he was full of expectations and expectations for Li Qingge's future.

"Thank you, Your Majesty!" Li Qingge replied respectfully. However, her heart was filled with ripples: [Why did Li Shimin suddenly ask about marriage today? He hasn't arranged his own children yet, how can he care about me? 】【The person I like will pursue her on her own, why should he worry about it? 】【You should think more about national affairs when you have time, and don't forget that there are so many crises around. 】Her heart was filled with a desire for freedom and a weariness of government affairs, as if she wanted to escape from the vortex of the palace and power struggle that bound her.

However, on the surface, Li Qingge still looked respectful. Li Shimin saw this and thought to himself: This kid is quite courageous. He has repeatedly despised my kindness. This is really rare in the world. He looked at Li Qingge with appreciation, with an inexplicable light flashing in his eyes, as if he had different expectations and values ​​for her. He knew that Li Qingge was not an ordinary person. 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 the Tang Dynasty 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 is not far from the prince's mansion, but Li Qingge didn't care about it. Her heart is full of longing and expectation for the future, and also full of desire and pursuit for freedom. She knows that only by truly mastering her own destiny can she live out her true self and style. In this vortex of the palace and power struggle, she must stay sober and firm to find her own way.

(End of this chapter)