Tang Dynasty: A Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls for Li Er at the Start

Chapter 362 If I say it's suitable, then it's suitable.

"came back?"

Inside the Li Zheng Hall.

The wafting sandalwood incense could not dispel the heavy atmosphere in the air.

Li Shimin sat on the dragon throne, his gaze fixed on Wen He at the palace gate. His tone was unreadable, but his furrowed brows and taut jawline betrayed his anger.

Before Wen He could speak, Li Shimin suddenly raised his hand and slammed it heavily on the imperial desk in front of him, causing the writing brush, ink, paper, and inkstone on the desk to bounce.

He pointed at Wen He, his voice filled with suppressed anger: "So you finally know to come back! Where have you been these past few days? You haven't even sent a single letter back to Chang'an. You've been away from the capital for so long without permission. Do you even respect me as your emperor? Do you even know the proper etiquette between ruler and subject?"

As soon as the words were spoken, the atmosphere inside the Lizheng Hall instantly became extremely oppressive, and even breathing seemed to become heavy.

Seeing this, Gao Yue, who was standing to the side, quickly gave a signal, which made all the eunuchs and palace maids in the hall withdraw, and then quietly closed the hall door.

He had followed Li Shimin for many years and knew that although His Majesty was angry at this moment, he did not want outsiders to see Wen He's predicament.

Wen He was taken aback by the scene, then chuckled, "Your Majesty, please calm down! I didn't go out for sightseeing; I went to take care of important business and find someone. How could I have time to write letters?"

He muttered to himself.

It's just a few days away from Chang'an, isn't it?
He went to Huizhou before, and it took more than a month, but His Majesty wasn't this angry then. What's wrong with him today?
"Snapped!"

With another loud thud, Li Shimin's hand landed on the imperial desk again, this time with even more force, so much so that the dragon throne seemed to shake.

He glared at Wen He, his chest heaving violently, too angry to speak.

He didn't actually leave Beijing without permission; he was clearly afraid!
He knew in his heart that Wen He was definitely dissatisfied with the decision to exile Lu Ziye and others.

So he stood by and watched as Wen He ordered his hundred riders to intercept and kill him, silently acknowledging that this was the work of bandits and robbers.

But he was still worried that Wen He might develop a rift with him because of this.

These days, Wen He has been nowhere to be found. Huang Chun led a hundred cavalrymen to search all over Huazhou but couldn't find her, so he couldn't help but feel panicked.

Could it be that this brat harbors resentment because of this incident, and is actually trying to escape with the Xuanjia Guards?

Although Wenrou is still in Chang'an, Wenhe has always been willful and capricious. What if she really hardens up her heart and abandons her sister to go far away?

If Wen He hadn't been found in two more days, he would have already issued a warrant for his arrest.

"Your Majesty, please don't get angry!"

Seeing that Li Shimin was truly angry, Wen He quickly stepped forward, her tone becoming less casual and somewhat embarrassed.

"I went to Huazhou this time to find Master Sun Simiao. Moreover, Master Sun came back to Chang'an with me this time and is waiting outside the palace right now. I haven't had time to announce his arrival yet!"

He spoke frankly, but there was also a sense of helplessness in his heart.

Although he had not reported his departure from the capital in advance, the Xuanjia Guards who were with him were ostensibly "protectors," but weren't they actually sent by His Majesty to keep an eye on him?
These people must have already reported their whereabouts back to Chang'an.

Besides, Xiaorou is still in Chang'an. He can't just abandon his sister and run away like that.

If he really had to run away, he would have to take his family property and his sister with him.

"Sun Simiao?"

Upon hearing this name, Li Shimin's tense body stiffened abruptly, and the anger on his face vanished instantly, replaced by utter astonishment.

He stared at Wen He, his tone tinged with disbelief: "Are you talking about that reclusive Taoist priest, Master Sun, whose medical skills are unparalleled? You really brought him back?"

Li Shimin couldn't help but feel a little excited.

Ever since Wen He said that Empress Zhangsun only had ten years to live.

He was constantly worried about her health.

And Qin Qiong.

Li Shimin truly did not want to see history repeat itself.

He also did not want future generations to think of him as a mean and ungrateful person.

However, Li Shimin was anxious because he had not been able to find him before.

I never expected that Wen He's trip would bring me such a big surprise.

only……

Li Shimin couldn't help but hesitate.

Sun Simiao was of a detached nature and could not be persuaded even when Li Yuan was in power. Yet Wen He managed to invite him back to Chang'an after only a few days.
Seeing that his anger had subsided considerably, Wen He quickly nodded: "It is indeed him! Master Sun is a kind-hearted physician. I told him that I wanted to open a medical school in Chang'an to teach the poor to medicine, and he agreed. He is right outside the hall now. If Your Majesty wishes to see him, I will go and invite him in."

Li Shimin stared at Wen He for a moment, and seeing that he looked calm and not fake, he slowly breathed a sigh of relief, and his tense shoulders relaxed a bit.

He raised his hand to rub his temples, the anger in his voice dissipating, replaced by a hint of amusement: "You brat... next time you leave the capital, at least send someone to deliver a message, so I don't worry for nothing!"

As soon as Li Shimin finished speaking, he seemed to remember something, and his tone became even more urgent: "And another thing! Go and invite Master Sun in quickly! You have never known manners, how can you let such a master as Master Sun wait outside the hall for so long? If word gets out, won't people say that I have neglected a worthy man?"

Your uncle's!

Wen He secretly rolled her eyes.

Just moments ago he was slamming his fist on the table in anger, but now he's showing such respect to Sun Simiao—it's truly a case of "crossing the river and then burning the bridge."

He suppressed his emotions, put on a smile, and replied, "Yes! Your Majesty, I will go and invite them right away!"

Having said that, he quickly left the hall.

Outside the hall, under the veranda, the spring sunlight shines on the bluestone slabs, casting dappled shadows.

Sun Simiao stood quietly, carrying his old medicine chest.

Gao Yue stood not far away, occasionally glancing at the poor-looking old Taoist priest.

I don't know where Wenxianzi found this Taoist priest.

I've never heard of county-level salaries being paid to families before.

Could it be that it was found for His Majesty?

As he was wondering what was going on, he saw Wen He come out. After the two met, he stepped aside.

Seeing Wen He emerge, Sun Simiao glanced at the young man's expression. Seeing no sign of panic, he nodded slightly: "Young master, you came out quickly. His Majesty did not make things difficult for you because you left the capital without permission, did he?"

Wen He stepped forward and helped him straighten the straps of his medicine box.

"His Majesty was worried that I would disappear without a trace. Now that I have explained myself and gone to Huazhou, his anger has long since subsided."

He deliberately ignored Li Shimin's angry expression to avoid arousing Sun Simiao's suspicion. Sun Simiao's fingertips traced the wood grain of the medicine box, and he smiled, "That's good. Now that the misunderstanding has been cleared up, let's go to the palace to report as soon as possible, so we can prepare for the follow-up matters quickly."

He initially thought Wen He's entry into the palace was just a routine reporting process, and didn't think much of it, his mind preoccupied with the subsequent medical arrangements.

Wen He stopped him, saying, "Master Sun, don't be in a hurry. His Majesty specifically asked me to invite you in so that he can see you in person. He will not make things difficult for you."

"His Majesty wishes to see me?"

Sun Simiao was slightly taken aback, then chuckled: "It was my oversight. Your Majesty must be curious about why you went to Huazhou to invite me back to Chang'an. I suppose that's not surprising."

After saying that, he took a step into the hall, and Wen He quickly followed.

Sun Simiao followed Wen He into the Lizheng Hall, where the scents of sandalwood and ink mingled. Li Shimin had already risen and descended the steps, a smile on his face: "Master Sun, you must be tired from your journey! I have long admired your superb medical skills and kind heart; it is truly an honor to meet you today!"

Sun Simiao was slightly surprised by such enthusiasm. He bowed and cupped his hands, saying, "I am Sun Simiao, a Daoist, and I greet Your Majesty. Your Majesty is busy with many affairs of state, yet you still remember the folk healers. I am humbled."

"The Taoist priest is too modest."

Li Shimin personally helped him up.

"I have long heard that you have treated the people in Huazhou and Tongzhou without charging a penny and even paid for the medicine out of your own pocket. This benevolence far surpasses that of many officials!"

As she spoke, she led Sun Simiao to sit down on the camphor wood couch, and Gao Yue quickly served him tea.

As soon as he sat down, Li Shimin's expression became more solemn, and his tone was calm but concerned: "Master Sun, I have invited you here today because I have a request. It concerns the Empress's health. The Empress is no different from ordinary people in daily life, except that she occasionally suffers from a short illness. When she has an attack, she coughs a few times. Although it does not affect her daily life, it still makes me worry. I have heard that you are good at treating various diseases, so I would like to ask you to take her pulse and see if you can cure her completely. I hope you can help me."

There were some things that Li Shimin couldn't say.

Especially the matter of Empress Zhangsun's lifespan.

Otherwise, it would be easier to explain.

Sun Simiao was taken aback, then said seriously, "Your Majesty, please speak. If I can do it, I will certainly not refuse. A doctor should relieve the worries of patients, even if it is a minor ailment, he should do his best."

Li Shimin breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing his agreement, and his tone became lighter: "The Empress is strong-willed and always says she is fine and doesn't want to trouble the imperial physicians. But I still worry when I see her coughing occasionally. If you can help her recover, it will relieve me of a great burden. Then, whatever the Daoist priest wants, I will give it to him."

Sun Simiao nodded: "Your Majesty is considerate of the Empress, I understand. May I ask where the Empress is? I am ready to go and treat her at any time."

"The Empress is in Wanchun Palace, not far from here. I will accompany you there!"

Li Shimin stood up.

"Wen He, you come too."

"Here!"

Wen He agreed, and the three of them left the Lizheng Hall together.

The willows along the palace road sprouted new green leaves, and the tender willow buds swayed in the spring breeze. Li Shimin walked with a leisurely pace, but he could not hide his concern for the empress.

Sun Simiao followed behind, pondering to himself.

Even minor, occasional gas-related ailments still require careful examination to avoid potential complications.

He knew it was impossible to completely eliminate the root cause of the illness; he could only try to treat it gradually.

Before long, they arrived at Wanchun Palace. A palace maid stepped forward and bowed, saying, "This servant greets Your Majesty. The Empress is reading in the inner palace and just asked Your Majesty if you are busy with state affairs today."

"No gift."

Li Shimin waved his hand and said softly, "Don't disturb the Empress, let's go straight in."

The inner hall was brightly lit, with the window curtains half-drawn, and a gentle breeze carrying the scent of books.

Sun Simiao and Wen He followed Li Shimin inside and saw a woman in plain clothes sitting on a soft couch, holding a scroll in her hands. Her hair was simply secured with a jade hairpin, and her face was rosy and her expression was serene. It was none other than Empress Zhangsun.

When Empress Zhangsun saw Li Shimin enter, she put down her book and smiled, "Your Majesty, what brings you here? You've returned early today."

Looking up and seeing Sun Simiao, a hint of doubt flashed in his eyes, but he still nodded gently.

"I've brought you a guest."

Li Shimin walked to the bedside, speaking gently.

"This is Master Sun Simiao, a highly skilled physician. Knowing that you occasionally cough, I invited him to examine your pulse and give you proper treatment so that I won't have to worry about you all the time."

Upon hearing this, Empress Zhangsun smiled helplessly: "I already said it's nothing, just an occasional cough, no need to make such a fuss."

"Your humble servant greets the Empress." Wen He poked her head out, smiling as she thought of Empress Zhangsun.

"Jiaying is here too. You've been out of Chang'an for the past few days without sending a single letter, which has made His Majesty quite anxious," Empress Zhangsun said with a hint of reproach in her voice.

Wen He said sheepishly, "Your Majesty, I know I was wrong."

"Don't do this again in the future, lest His Majesty and I worry." Empress Zhangsun smiled gently when she saw that he admitted his mistake so quickly.

Wen He immediately responded and stepped aside to let Sun Simiao step forward.

"This must be Master Sun," Changsun Wugou said, sizing him up.

Sun Simiao stepped forward and bowed, saying, "This humble one greets the Empress."

"Master Sun came here today specifically to diagnose you. Jia Ying has been traveling from Chang'an these past few days to find him."

Li Shimin truly believed this, which is why he calmed down so quickly.

Upon hearing this, Empress Zhangsun glanced at Wen He.

The latter smiled, and Changsun Wugou was touched: "Thank you very much, Jiaying."

She then said to Sun Simiao, "Thank you for your trouble, Daoist Sun."

"Someone, bring over a soft couch."

Soon after, a palace maid brought in a soft couch, and Empress Zhangsun sat down there.

Sun Simiao sat down on the couch beside the couch and first observed her complexion.

Her complexion was rosy, and there was no sign of fatigue in her eyes. Her tongue coating was pale red and thin white, with no abnormalities.

He gently placed his hand on Empress Zhangsun's wrist, closed his eyes, and focused his mind to carefully feel her pulse.

The hall was quiet for a moment. Li Shimin stood to the side, his gaze fixed on the two of them, with a hint of anticipation.

A moment later, Sun Simiao opened his eyes and withdrew his hand, speaking calmly: "Your Highness's pulse is steady, and your qi and blood are quite abundant. However, your lung meridian is slightly weak, which is likely the root cause of your occasional cough. Do you usually spend a lot of time in poorly ventilated places? Or are you prone to catching a cold during seasonal changes?"

Changsun Wugou's eyes showed surprise, and she nodded, saying, "What the Daoist said is right. There are indeed some halls in the palace with poor ventilation. They were also rained on last month when the seasons changed, and I coughed occasionally afterward. It's not serious, and I'll be fine in a few days."

"This is it."

Sun Simiao smiled.

"The Empress's constitution is naturally mild, but her lung meridian is slightly weak. When she encounters a stuffy, damp, or slightly cool environment, she is prone to a mild cough. It is not a serious illness, but it still needs to be treated to prevent the symptoms from worsening when she encounters cold in the future."

Li Shimin hurriedly asked, "Master Sun, how should we treat this? Is medication necessary?"

“There’s no need for strong medicine,” Sun Simiao said.

"I will prescribe a mild remedy for the Empress, using lily bulb and Solomon's seal to nourish the lungs, and poria and atractylodes macrocephala to strengthen the spleen. The spleen and lungs are mutually supportive, and a strong spleen leads to strong lungs. One dose per day, boiled in water and drunk as tea, will be effective after half a month. However, she should be careful not to overwork herself or experience extreme joy or sorrow in the future."

Upon hearing this, Li Shimin looked at Empress Zhangsun with worry in his eyes.

The latter smiled and softly replied, "I understand."

Sun Simiao continued, "In addition, open the windows for ventilation more often, and take a short walk outside the palace in the morning to breathe fresh air; eat less sweet and greasy food, and eat more foods that soothe the throat, such as pears and white fungus, and there will be no problem."

As he spoke, he took out paper and pen from his medicine box and wrote a prescription. Although his handwriting was not neat, his strokes were vigorous: "This prescription is mild. It is fine to drink it for several days. If the Empress forgets to drink it, it is okay to miss a few days. The important thing is to maintain daily health."

Li Shimin took the prescription, looked at it carefully, and handed it to the palace maid: "Get the medicine according to this prescription, decoct it every day and send it to the palace. Remember to tell the imperial kitchen to prepare more pear soup and white fungus soup for the Empress."

The palace maid acknowledged the order and withdrew. Empress Zhangsun said to Sun Simiao, "Thank you for your trouble, Daoist Sun."

"Your Majesty is too kind. As a physician, treating the sick is my duty," Sun Simiao said, bowing.

"If the Empress coughs again in the future, there is no need to worry. Just drink the tea prescribed for a few days and get plenty of rest."

After giving some more instructions, seeing that the sun was beginning to set, Li Shimin led the two men out of Wanchun Palace.

Outside the palace, Li Shimin looked at Sun Simiao earnestly: "Master Sun, your medical skills are superb, and the Empress's recovery is largely thanks to you. I intend to appoint you as the Director of the Imperial Medical Academy, to oversee the Imperial Medical Academy. This would not only facilitate future follow-up examinations for the Empress, but also train more physicians for the Tang Dynasty. What do you think?"

Upon hearing this, Sun Simiao quickly bowed and declined, saying, "I appreciate Your Majesty's kindness, but I am used to a leisurely life and have been practicing medicine among the common people for many years. I am not accustomed to the rules of the court. The position of Director of the Imperial Medical Academy is a great responsibility, and I am afraid I am not up to the task. I hope Your Majesty will rescind your order."

Li Shimin was taken aback by his refusal and then advised, "Master Sun, the head of the Imperial Medical Academy holds a high position and wields great power. He can mobilize medicinal materials from all over the country, which would be more conducive to your medical practice and saving lives. Why don't you reconsider?"

"Your Majesty, my mind is made up."

Sun Simiao's attitude was resolute.

"My lifelong wish is to treat the poor and needy in the countryside. I do not wish to be bound by official positions. I hope Your Majesty will understand."

Li Shimin was immediately displeased when he saw that Li Shimin insisted on refusing.

Most importantly, he was worried that Sun Simiao would leave Chang'an.

If the Empress falls ill in the future, where will I go to find her?

Wen He, who was standing to the side, suddenly noticed that the atmosphere was a bit strange. He took the opportunity to step forward and bowed: "Your Majesty, I have something to report."

"You said."

Li Shimin looked at him. Wen He said loudly, "This time, I went to Huazhou to invite Master Sun back to Chang'an. In addition to asking him to treat the people, I also wanted to establish a medical school with him. Most of the doctors trained by the Imperial Medical Academy will serve the royal officials."

“But poor people have difficulty even finding someone to see a doctor. I want to set up a school that will only accept poor children and teach them medicine for free. After they graduate, they can go back to their hometowns to treat patients. Master Sun has excellent medical skills and cares about the people. I would like to invite him to be the headmaster and preside over the teaching.”

"Medical school?"

Li Shimin was somewhat puzzled upon hearing this.

That's a novel idea.

After a moment of contemplation, his eyes suddenly lit up.

"This is a great thing that benefits the country and its people! Wen He, how could you have such an idea!"

Sun Simiao quickly added, "Your Majesty, I wholeheartedly agree with Young Master Wen's idea. I have practiced medicine for many years and have seen too many people lose their loved ones because they cannot afford medical treatment. Training poor children to practice medicine can solve their immediate problems. Moreover, Young Master Wen has promised to raise the school's expenses himself and not cause any trouble for the court."

"Is this true?"

Li Shimin looked at Wen He.

"Are you really capable of raising the school's expenses on your own?"

“Your Majesty, my family has business dealings with the Ministry of Civil Affairs, and our monthly income is sufficient to support the initial expenses of the school.”

As Wen He spoke, a sly smile suddenly appeared on his lips, a glint of cunning flashing in his eyes, like a little fox that had already calculated its prey. Li Shimin, seeing this, knew that this rascal was up to no good and couldn't help but sigh inwardly.

Every time Wen He showed this expression, he would always get something "pulled" out of him.

He didn't rush to ask further, but instead crossed his arms and looked at Wen He with a half-smile, waiting for him to continue.

Sure enough, before Li Shimin could speak, Wen He took the initiative to explain: "But Your Majesty, think about it, the news of Master Sun's arrival in Chang'an will soon spread throughout the capital. At that time, which of those powerful and wealthy families doesn't have a headache or fever? They will definitely rush to ask Master Sun to treat them."

"They are very wealthy. With a divine doctor like Master Sun taking action, they will naturally be willing to donate some money to support our school. This is a considerable income, enough for the school to operate for a long time."

He paused, then changed the subject, looking directly at Li Shimin, and said with a somewhat matter-of-fact tone, "For example, Your Majesty, Master Sun has just cured the Empress's health and relieved your worries. You will surely reward Master Sun, right? In my opinion, one million coins would be appropriate, which would not only show Your Majesty's goodwill but also set an example for other powerful and noble people."

Li Shimin's smiling face froze instantly, his eyes filled with astonishment.

That brat actually dared to ask me for money!

Looking at Wen He's "you can't be stingy" expression, and remembering that Sun Simiao had indeed helped a lot, he felt a lump in his throat, but he couldn't vent his anger.

Wen He observed the situation and chuckled inwardly, but continued speaking: "Your Majesty, please don't think it's too much. This is Master Sun! A million coins is really not much to ask him to treat patients. Besides, this money won't end up in my pocket; it will be used to build schools that benefit the people. You can't be stingy with it, can you?"

He deliberately drew out his words, with a hint of teasing.

No, no, no.

You are His Majesty the Emperor, who rules the entire world.

You wouldn't be so stingy as to not spend this little bit of money, would you?

"Of course! Of course I wouldn't be reluctant!"

Li Shimin glared at Wen He fiercely, then laughed in annoyance and pointed at Wen He with his finger.

"You little rascal, you've got me figured out perfectly! It's just a million coins, right? I'll reward you!"

Wen He's eyes lit up, and she quickly pressed her advantage, raising an eyebrow slightly: "What about His Highness the Crown Prince..."

Li Shimin immediately interrupted him: "He's your student, go and talk to him yourself!"

“But the Empress is his mother,” Wen He said innocently.

"Master Sun is treating his mother's health; as her son, he can't just leave without showing any appreciation, can he?"

Li Shimin felt an itch to retaliate at Wen He's "taking an inch and wanting a mile" attitude, but he couldn't find a way to say no.

That makes perfect sense.

He took a deep breath and gritted his teeth, saying, "Add another million coins! From the imperial treasury!"

After saying that, she rubbed her chest tenderly.

He could freely dispose of the money in the imperial treasury, and he wanted to save it for future palace repairs.

I never expected that Wen He would take away two million of my money like this. How could I not feel the pain?
He now fully understands that Wen He wasn't discussing things with him at all; she had clearly planned it all along, making him bleed step by step!

"And Your Majesty..."

Wen He wanted to say something more.

"I have no money!" Li Shimin shouted angrily before he could finish speaking.

"Two million is the limit, not a penny more!"

Sun Simiao, who was standing to the side, was stunned and almost dropped the medicine box in his hand.

Is this still the dignified and composed Tang emperor he remembered?
How could someone possibly cheat their subject over money?

He stood there awkwardly, not daring to offer any advice or say anything more. He could only secretly turn his head away, pretending to look at the willow trees beside the palace road, as if he hadn't heard anything.

Wen He was almost amused by Li Shimin's sudden angry shout, but she secretly thought to herself: Stingy!

With so much silver sent by Japan and the assets of corrupt officials like the Zheng and Lu families confiscated, how could they possibly be short of money?

Clearly stingy!
He suppressed a laugh, cleared his throat, and softened his tone: "Ahem, Your Majesty, please don't get excited. This time, I won't ask for money."

Li Shimin looked at him suspiciously: "Then what do you want?"

He didn't believe Wen He would let him off so easily.

"I would like you to write a plaque for the school, with the words 'Benefiting the People Medical Hall' inscribed on it, so that the people will know how much Your Majesty values ​​the school."

As Wen He spoke, she changed the subject again.

"Furthermore, I would like to humbly request that His Highness the Crown Prince serve as the headmaster of the academy. What do you think?"

The Medical Academy will surely become an important place that controls the health of the powerful and wealthy in the capital and even influences the medical profession throughout the country. If Wen He were to take control of it alone, even if he trusts Wen He now, he would inevitably have trouble sleeping and eating in the future.

Wen He's initiative to appoint Li Chengqian as the chief priest seemed like a way of delegating power, but in reality, it was a way for her to secure her future and avoid being suspected in the future.

But as soon as he said that, Li Shimin's eyes darkened instantly.

He could easily see through Wen He's thoughts.

Li Shimin's face gradually showed displeasure, and he cursed inwardly, "This brat, he's certainly paved his escape route very clearly!"

He was silent for a moment, then suddenly spoke, his tone leaving no room for doubt: "Gao Ming is still young and not mature enough to be the chief priest. I will take the position myself!"

Wen He was completely stunned, her eyes wide open.

An emperor as the headmaster of a school?
This is so revolutionary!
It's simply the opposite of Tiangang!
"This...this isn't quite appropriate, is it?"

Wen He asked tentatively.

"His Majesty is so busy with state affairs, how could he have time to manage the school?"

"If I say it's suitable, then it's suitable!"

Li Shimin said decisively, his eyes carrying a deep meaning.

"From now on, all expenses of the school will be borne by the imperial court, so you don't need to worry about raising funds anymore. You can just focus on assisting Master Sun in teaching and stop thinking about these 'crooked ideas'."

Wen He then realized what was happening.

Li Shimin saw through his little scheme and simply brought the school under the control of the imperial court.

To put it simply...

Wen He, aren't you afraid that I'll be wary of you? Then I'll prevent you from touching the core power of the academy, so you can rest assured.

He looked at Li Shimin's somewhat smug expression and smiled helplessly.

However, this is similar to his goal.

It wouldn't matter whether it was Li Chengqian or Li Shimin who served as the chief priest.

It would be better if Li Shimin were to be the chief officiant; he would even save money now.

Wen He and Sun Simiao then took their leave.

Wen He and Sun Simiao walked out of Xuanwu Gate together. Qi San had already prepared a carriage outside the palace and was waiting there.

After the two boarded the carriage, the driver lightly cracked the whip, and the wheels slowly rolled, heading towards Gaoyang Prefecture.

The carriage was covered with soft brocade cushions, and the noise outside the window was shut out, leaving only the soft sound of the wheels rolling over the bluestone slabs.

Sun Simiao sat upright on the brocade cushion, looking at Wen He opposite him, and finally couldn't help but laugh. The wrinkles at the corners of his eyes smoothed out, and his tone was somewhat teasing: "Young master, can your actions today be considered a breach of the agreement you made with me before?"

He stared intently at Wen He, clearly remembering the promise Wen He had made when she invited him to Chang'an.

At that time, Wen He said that he would open a school and make him the headmaster.

But now, the school is led by His Majesty, which means that the school belongs to the court and private schools are abolished.

Wen He naturally understood his meaning, and upon hearing this, she did not argue, but simply smiled and said, "Master Sun, although that is true, you see, no matter what the process is, the result is the same. We are going to set up a medical school to teach poor children medicine and treat the people. Moreover, with His Majesty's endorsement, our school can avoid a lot of unnecessary trouble in the future."

Sun Simiao slowly shook his head, a hint of caution in his eyes: "I don't think so. His Majesty's emphasis on schools may certainly ward off some trouble, but it also adds a layer of courtly influence to the schools."

Having practiced medicine for many years, he had witnessed the complexities of officialdom.

"At that time, many people may use this school as a channel for advancement and try every means to send their children in. Even if they are not serious about learning medicine, they may want to use the name of the school that His Majesty values ​​to seek a future. If that happens, it will go against our original idea of ​​teaching people to learn medicine and treating the people."

Wen He felt a chill run down her spine.

He certainly hadn't considered that aspect.

He naturally didn't want the school to become a place of fame and fortune.

At the very least, this place should not be allowed to become a pathway for advancement for certain Celestial Dragons.

Sun Simiao's worries were not unfounded. In the imperial court, there are always people who link everything to "interests" and "future prospects." If the school really becomes a "gilding place" for the children of the powerful and wealthy, then all his previous efforts will be in vain.

He looked at Sun Simiao, nodded solemnly, and said sincerely, "Master Sun, rest assured, I understand your concerns. I assure you that apart from medical matters such as treating patients, saving lives, and teaching, all other miscellaneous matters, such as officials recommending their children or being involved in court politics, will never affect you, nor will they change the school's original intention of treating the people."

He paused, then added, "If anyone tries to squeeze their children in or uses the school as a tool for profit, I will stand in their way and never let such things interfere with teaching."

"I will also make it clear to His Majesty that the school's enrollment and teaching must be decided by him, and no one can interfere."

Sun Simiao looked at the determination in Wen He's eyes and remained silent for a moment.

He knew that Wen He was not speaking carelessly. Judging from Wen He's willingness to waive the rent and interest for the tenants and to use his own money to prepare for the school, this young man truly wanted to do things for the people.

However, the affairs of the imperial court were complicated, and he was still somewhat worried.

However, he also understood that no amount of worrying would help at this moment, and he could only choose to trust Wen He.

Finally, he nodded silently, his tone softening: "I hope so. In this life, I just want to treat patients and teach medicine in peace. I don't want to get involved in any trouble. As long as people can learn real skills and do more for the people, I will be content."

Seeing that he had agreed, Wen He breathed a sigh of relief and said with a smile, "Don't worry, our school will definitely become the purest place for medicine. Once the school is up and running, you will teach the students medical skills, and I will handle the miscellaneous matters. With our division of labor and cooperation, we will surely make the school better and better and cultivate more good doctors who can treat the people."

Upon hearing this, Sun Simiao smiled sincerely and nodded, "Alright, then I will trust you this once."

Two days later, just as dawn was breaking, the Taiji Hall was already filled with civil and military officials.

The gilded palace lanterns cast a warm glow beside the palace pillars.

The court officials, dressed in their court robes, lined up on both sides according to their rank, their hushed conversations fading away instantly as the eunuch announced, "His Majesty has arrived."

Everyone stood with their heads bowed, waiting for Li Shimin to hold court.

With a soft rustling of the beaded curtain, Li Shimin, dressed in a bright yellow court robe, slowly walked onto the dragon throne. His gaze swept over the assembled officials in the hall, and he said in a deep voice, "Today, as I preside over court, I have something to discuss with you all. I intend to establish a medical academy in Chang'an, specifically to enroll commoners and children from impoverished families, teach them medical skills, and after they have completed their studies, send them to various places to treat the people."

As soon as the words were spoken, the Taiji Hall fell into a deathly silence; even breathing seemed to freeze.

The ministers were all stunned, and then their faces showed disbelief.

Lu Kuan, the Minister of Rites who was standing at the front, was the first to react. He stepped forward, bowed, and said, "Your Majesty, the establishment of schools is a matter of education and should be supported. However, the affairs of doctors have always been managed by the Imperial Medical Academy. Now that schools are being set up, will it conflict with the authority of the Imperial Medical Academy? I urge Your Majesty to think it over."

His tone was respectful, but he couldn't hide his doubts.

The establishment of schools was related to etiquette and moral education, so as the Minister of Rites, he had to get involved.

He was worried that those from the five surnames and seven clans would object, which is why he took the lead in going out to class.

Before Li Shimin could speak, Dou Jing, the Minister of Revenue, stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, setting up schools requires a considerable amount of money to purchase school buildings and medicines. Although the national treasury has a surplus, some needs to be reserved for military supplies and disaster relief. If we were to cover all the expenses for schools, it might affect other expenditures..."

Before he could finish speaking, Li Shimin raised his hand to interrupt him: "I have decided that the expenses of the school will be paid from the imperial treasury and the confiscated corrupt assets, without having to use the regular funds of the national treasury. As for the powers of the Imperial Medical Academy, the medical school is only responsible for teaching, while the Imperial Medical Academy is still in charge of medical treatment for the palace and officials. There is no conflict between the two."

Li Shimin's tone was calm, yet carried an undeniable authority. Upon hearing this, Dou Jing immediately lowered her head and withdrew, saying no more.

Lu Kuan then withdrew as well.

Looking at the crowd in court, Li Shimin continued, taking advantage of the silence, "I wonder if any minister has any objections?"

His gaze swept around the main hall.

Especially those officials who are closely associated with the Five Surnames and Seven Clans.

But nowadays, how dare they step forward?

Your Majesty has been on the throne for less than a year, first the Zheng family, and now the Lu family.

Even the powerful Cui and Wang families were forced to hand over some of their land to make up for the deficit in the national treasury a few days ago.

Such swift and decisive methods had already made the powerful clans wary.

If we offend His Majesty now, who knows if we'll be the next ones to suffer?
Moreover, this medical academy only teaches medicine to the poor, and it does not directly conflict with the interests of aristocratic families. It is not worth risking the safety of the family for such a trivial matter.

Just as the ministers remained silent, Wei Zheng, standing in the ranks of civil officials, suddenly stepped forward, bowed, and said loudly, "Your Majesty, this matter benefits the country and the people. It can not only relieve the people's suffering from lack of medical care, but also educate the children to learn skills to make a living. I believe it is feasible!"

Wei Zheng was known for his outspokenness and willingness to offer advice, and even Li Shimin was wary of him. Now that he had taken the lead in expressing his support, the atmosphere in the hall immediately eased.

Immediately afterward, Changsun Wuji stepped forward and echoed, "Your Majesty cares deeply about the people's livelihood. This move is a blessing for the people of the Tang Dynasty, and I also agree!"

Subsequently, several high-ranking officials from the Ministry of Personnel, the Ministry of Rites, and the Ministry of Works also stepped forward to express their support.

In an instant, all dissenting voices within the palace vanished, leaving only praise for the emperor's decision.

Looking at the scene before him, Li Shimin slowly nodded: "Since that's the case, then this matter is settled! This medical academy will be named 'Jishi Academy,' with me personally serving as its headmaster, and Daoist Sun Simiao as its headmaster. All other matters will be handled by Wen He, the magistrate of Gaoyang County."

These words were the final word.

But the hall fell silent again for a brief moment.

Gaoyang County?

Changsun Wuji suddenly looked up, his eyes filled with astonishment.

He never expected that Wen He would be involved in this important matter personally spearheaded by His Majesty.

What surprised him even more was that Sun Simiao was able to serve as the headmaster of the school.

No wonder Wen He suddenly disappeared for a while; it turns out he went to find Sun Simiao.

He couldn't help but feel annoyed that he had forgotten about his younger sister's health.

This was something he should have done.

Unexpectedly, Wen He gained the upper hand.

'However, this medical academy is something worth vying for.'

Changsun Wuji thought to himself.

Not only Changsun Wuji, but other court officials also showed surprise and exchanged glances in private.

When Cheng Zhijie heard the name "Sun Simiao" in the ranks of military officers, his eyes lit up and he was overjoyed: "Brother Qin is saved!"

Li Shimin took in the reactions of his ministers but did not offer any further explanation. He simply continued, "From this day forward, the Ministry of Rites will take the lead in selecting a site, the Ministry of Revenue will assist in procuring supplies, and the Ministry of Works will be responsible for repairing the school buildings. Preparations must be completed within one month, and enrollment will officially begin after the spring imperial examinations. Wen He will assist Master Sun in formulating the teaching regulations to ensure the orderly progress of the school's teaching."

"I will obey your orders!"

The ministers responded in unison, their voices perfectly synchronized, without the slightest hesitation.

Li Shimin then announced the end of the court session.

The officials walked together in small groups, discussing amongst themselves.

Just then, everyone saw a gust of wind blow past them.

Upon closer inspection, it turned out to be that scoundrel Cheng Zhijie.

"Cheng Yaojin, you can't hold it in any longer, can you? You've been running so fast today, be careful you don't poop."

The only person who would dare to mock Cheng Zhijie like that is Yuchi Gong.

"Old Blackie, I'm not in the mood to argue with you today. I'm going to take Brother Qin to find Master Sun."

After he finished speaking, he went out on his own.

But at this moment, everyone inside the Taiji Hall was stunned.

After a while, Li Daozong suddenly exclaimed with a sudden realization: "That's right, Master Sun is at the little boy's house. I must go and see him."

After saying that, he rushed out in a flurry.

Inside the main hall, the Yan brothers exchanged glances, while Liu Dewei stroked his beard, seemingly lost in thought.

Li Jing walked calmly outside with his hands behind his back.

At this moment, those who had previously been on good terms with Wen He felt inexplicably happy.

Shortly after.

Inside the Gaoyang County government building.

Wen He was lying in the garden, taking a nap with her eyes half-closed.

Suddenly, a series of hurried footsteps were heard.

Then they heard A-Dong's shouts.

"Young master, something terrible has happened! Someone has come to our door!"

(End of this chapter)