My father, Li Shimin, please call me Crown Prince

Chapter 120 Li Shimin: I want both fish and bear's paw
On the third day of the first lunar month, auspicious snow indicates a good harvest.

During this period, the Tang Dynasty had a relatively warm and humid climate, and snow was rare in winter.

It is normal for it not to snow for several years.

According to historical records, during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang, citrus fruits were grown in large quantities in Chang'an City and a good harvest was obtained.

You should know that citrus is a tropical fruit that has certain temperature requirements and is generally suitable for growing in a relatively warm and humid climate.

Chang'an is located in the northern region. Under normal circumstances, the climate is relatively cold and dry, which is not suitable for citrus growth.

When citrus fruits had a good harvest in Chang'an City, it meant that the climate at that time was relatively warm and the temperature conditions were suitable for citrus fruits to grow and bear fruit.

In a warm climate, not only can subtropical crops such as citrus grow, but the growth cycle and yield of other crops are also positively affected, which is conducive to the development of agricultural production.

The Liaodong region occupied by Goryeo at this time obviously also had this climate.

It was not until the middle and late Tang Dynasty, marked by the first snow in the 29th year of Kaiyuan, that the Tang Dynasty gradually entered a cold and dry climate.

The prince's four-wheeled carriage rolled over the snow and passed by Taiji Palace.

Today he is going to pay New Year's greetings to Li Shimin, and he only needs to pay New Year's greetings to Li Shimin.

Yesterday was the second day of the Chinese New Year. According to custom, it was the day when the prince met his biological mother.

But Empress Changsun had already passed away, so Li Chengqian didn't need to pay a visit to anyone.

When the prince's carriage arrived at Liangyi Hall.

The other princes have been waiting for a long time.

But since the eldest brother, the crown prince, had not arrived, they could only wait in the wind and snow.

The palace maids or eunuchs held umbrellas next to the princes.

"Greetings, big brother. The new year has come. I wish you good health and success in everything."

"May my elder brother be blessed with great fortune, peace, happiness, and glory."

"I wish you good luck and success in the new year."

"In the new year, I wish you long-lasting blessings and everything goes well."

"May my brother be safe, healthy, prosperous, and always honored."

Seeing the crown prince coming, the King of Wei came first, and the rest of the queens went forward one by one to pay their respects.

Li Chengqian nodded slightly, smiling, and said in a clear voice: "My dear brothers, the new year brings new things, and I am very pleased."

"I already know what you mean."

"I hope that in the new year, we brothers will work together to make the Tang Dynasty stronger."

"I hope you will uphold benevolence, study diligently, and become pillars of the Tang Dynasty in the future."

"May you all be healthy, successful in everything, and blessed with great fortune. May you protect this beautiful land with me and enjoy the glory of this prosperous age together."

It was a very official speech, and there were historians recording it. It was probably intended to be included in Li Shimin's daily notes.

To a certain extent, there will also be records of the words and deeds of the crown prince and other princes.

The crown prince then led the other princes into the palace to pay their respects.

In the Liangyi Hall, Li Shimin was dressed in solemn court robes, sitting upright on the throne, looking majestic without even being angry.

The princes bowed their heads respectfully. Li Chengqian stepped forward, saluted and said, "Your Highness, Li Chengqian and the other brothers are here to pay their respects to your father. We wish you good health and a prosperous new year. May your virtue shine as bright as the sun and illuminate the vast land of the Tang Dynasty."

Li Shimin nodded slightly, and his eyes swept over the princes, revealing a gratified look, and said, "My son, please don't be polite. At the beginning of the new year, I hope that you can work hard, cultivate yourselves and establish virtues, and contribute to the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty."

Li Chengqian bowed again and said, "I will keep your teachings in mind. I and my brothers will live up to your expectations, work hard, and devote ourselves to the Tang Dynasty."

There was no title of "son minister" in the Tang Dynasty. In public, the prince also called himself a minister.

Seeing the crown prince paying homage, the King of Wei was not to be outdone and stepped forward: "Father, in the new year we will follow your example, respect your kindness, be eager to learn, share your worries, and serve the Tang Dynasty."

According to the rules, the King of Wei's actions were somewhat overstepping his authority.

The historian who was recording nearby was already frowning.

Li Shimin looked at Wei Wang Li Tai with loving eyes and said, "Qingque, I know that you are talented and thoughtful. In the new year, you should continue to work hard and don't let me down."

Expectations? What expectations?

When Li Tai heard this, it automatically transformed into: The prince has a leg disease, you should encourage him.

His face immediately lit up with joy, and he quickly cupped his hands and said, "I will definitely live up to my father's love, study hard, and contribute my humble efforts to the Tang Dynasty."

Li Chengqian on the side lowered his eyes slightly and sneered in his heart.

Perhaps Li Shimin had sensed the Crown Prince's abnormality and was afraid that the Crown Prince would make a fool of himself at this time, so he said to the other princes: "You should all respect the Crown Prince, and work together as brothers for the prosperity of the Tang Dynasty."

All the princes responded in unison: "We will follow our father's instructions."

At this time, the snowflakes were still falling outside the hall, but a subtle atmosphere filled the Liangyi Hall.

After the process was completed, Li Shimin asked the Crown Prince, Prince of Wei, and Prince of Jin to stay.

The other princes can leave.

"The eldest princess of Tong'an is not feeling well, so you three brothers should go together to pay New Year's greetings today."

"I have also prepared some gifts, you can take them with you."

Princess Tongan is the only surviving direct descendant of Li Shimin.

However, since Li Shimin was the emperor, it would naturally not make sense for him to go to pay a visit in person, so he asked the three princes and their brothers to go.

In terms of blood relationship, she is also my aunt.

The three of them are brothers.

"Yes, Father."

Outside the Liangyi Palace.

Three people’s muscles, muscles, and muscles.

"Qingque, my elder brother has a leg injury, don't you know how to help him?"

Li Chengqian said with a smile.

Li Tai was dissatisfied: "Didn't Zhinu help me either?"

Hearing this, Li Zhi hurriedly took a step closer to the prince and supported him with both hands.

Seeing this, Li Tai had no choice but to walk over.

Li Chengqian put his hands on Li Tai and Li Zhi's shoulders and said with some regret: "Come to think of it, it's been a long time since we three brothers got together."

"When I was young, I loved to run behind Qingque and me. Once, I couldn't keep up with you and burst into tears. I ran to my mother to complain, saying that I, your elder brother, didn't play with you."

"Chinu, do you still remember this?"

Li Zhi was very excited when he heard this, and said, "Of course I remember. Although I was young, I have never forgotten the days I spent with my elder brother and fourth brother."

Li Tai's face couldn't help but reveal a complicated expression.

The crown prince became regent early, and although the emperor favored him at that time, he had never thought about competing for the throne.

Therefore, the relationship between the three brothers has always been very good, and they are friendly and respectful to each other.

At this time, Li Chengqian patted Li Tai's shoulder heavily.

Although the clothes were blocking the way, the fat on Li Tai's body was still shaking.

"Qingque, you really need to lose weight."

"Look at you. You're already out of breath after just a few steps. How can you expect to fight in battle?"

Li Tai was unwilling to accept this and was about to make an excuse.

But then I heard the prince say, "Back then, when my mother was on her sickbed, she held my hand tightly and spoke to me."

"Your father is very busy with government affairs. If mother is gone, you, as the elder brother, will have to take good care of your two younger brothers."

"Although Zhinu is only eight years old, he has a calm temperament. Mother can be at ease with him. The one she is most worried about is Qingque."

"Qingque may seem gentle, but he is actually impatient and prone to getting into trouble. As the eldest brother, you must take good care of him."

I heard the prince suddenly talk about his mother, especially her last words.

Li Tai's eyes suddenly turned red.

Snow flakes fluttered down, and the three brothers' steps slowed down unconsciously. Li Chengqian's words were like a key, unlocking the three brothers' deep longing for their mother.

Empress Changsun's kindness was like a ray of warm sunshine, shining equally on each of her sons.

She had high hopes for Li Chengqian, and guided him with wise instruction to shoulder the heavy responsibility of the crown prince, and to hone and grow in national affairs.

As for Li Tai, she saw through his impatient temper, but never showed any disdain for him. Instead, she gave him gentle exhortations and endless care, hoping that he could restrain his edge and become a pillar of the Tang Dynasty.

Facing the young Li Zhi, she saw his calmness and restraint, and gave him encouragement and care, allowing him to thrive in the nourishment of love.

For the three brothers, their mother is the most important person in their lives.

The mother's equal treatment made them feel true maternal love, without partiality or favoritism.

When talking about his mother, Li Tai's expression became sad and complicated.

If he had not tried to seize the throne and had followed his mother's teachings, would the situation be like this today?

Perhaps he, his elder brother, and his young slave will still be as close as before.

Speaking of which, the desire to seize the throne has only emerged in recent years.

"Mother's spirit in heaven will bless us."

Li Zhi said with a choked voice.

These words had a different meaning to the ears of the Crown Prince and the King of Wei.

Who will she bless? Unknowingly, the three of them had walked from Liangyi Hall to Chengtian Gate.

There were three carriages parked at the foot of Chengtian Gate.

Li Chengqian laughed and said nothing more, and walked directly to the more luxurious carriage in front that represented the prince.

Li Tai took a deep breath and looked at the prince's lame back with a complicated look in his eyes.

He actually understood what the prince meant.

The prince brought up the past events to give him a final ultimatum.

Tell him through his mother's mouth.

If they are willing to stop and no longer fight for the throne, then they can still be brothers, the three close brothers as before.

But if he insists on having his own way and is determined to seize the throne, the relationship between the brothers will be completely severed today.

I think of my mother’s teachings and the brotherhood we have had for more than ten years.

It would be a lie to say that I didn't feel shaken at all.

But, at this point, does he still have a choice?

His father's expectations, Fang Xuanling's help, and his Wei Wang faction.

He no longer had any choice.

Thinking of this, he no longer hesitated and prepared to get on the second carriage.

As soon as he took a step, Li Tai felt his sleeve being pulled.

"Fourth brother."

Li Zhi called softly, with a pleading look in his eyes.

Li Zhi was most deeply moved by his eldest brother's words.

After all, he is only fifteen years old this year.

I miss the brotherhood we once had the most.

He is not stupid, but very smart. Naturally, he can hear the hidden meaning of his eldest brother's words, which is to make his fourth brother give up the idea of ​​​​seizing the throne.

As long as the fourth brother gives up his ambition to seize the throne, the three brothers will still be the three brothers they once were.

With a wry smile, Li Tai shook his head slightly and looked at Li Zhi deeply.

"Chinu, Fourth Brother has no choice any longer."

"Some things are not as simple as you think."

After saying that, Li Tai shook off Li Zhi's hand with force and got on the second carriage.

Li Zhi stayed where he was, staring blankly for a long while.

Finally, he got on the third carriage with his head down.

In front, the eunuch reported to the crown prince: "Your Highness, the King of Wei and the King of Jin have already boarded the carriage."

Li Chengqian looked calm about King Wei's choice, as he had expected it.

At this point, who has a choice?

"Inform the King of Wei and the King of Jin that I am not feeling well and will not be going to the Grand Princess Tong'an's residence. They will pay their respects on my behalf."

The eunuch dared not say anything more and could only turn around and pass on the message.

Li Chengqian ordered the driver: "Go back to the East Palace."

"Yes, Your Highness."

Hearing the eunuch's message and the movement of the carriage, Li Tai said, "Tell the King of Jin that I am not feeling well either, so let him go to see the Grand Princess of Tong'an."

"Go back to Yankangfang."

The eunuch had no choice but to go to the third carriage and report: "Prince Jin, the Crown Prince and Prince Wei are not feeling well, so Prince Jin will go to the Grand Princess's residence to pay their respects on their behalf."

Hearing this, Li Zhi looked disappointed.

Taiji Palace, in front of Liangyi Hall.

Li Shimin stood quietly, and when he saw the eunuch rushing back, he asked expectantly, "How are the Crown Prince, the King of Wei, and the King of Jin?"

Of course he knew that Princess Tong'an was only on good terms with Li Zhi, and that she wanted the three brothers to go and pay a visit to her because she wanted them to reconcile.

As soon as the three brothers walked out of Liangyi Hall, Li Shimin had already reached the door and was peeking in.

Seeing the prince arm in arm with the two brothers, Li Shimin felt deeply comforted.

However, the eunuch's answer shattered Li Shimin's hopes.

"Your Majesty, the Crown Prince has returned to the East Palace, and the Prince of Wei has returned to Yankangfang."

"The only one who went to the Grand Princess Tongan's residence was Prince Jin."

Hearing this, Li Shimin's face was filled with grief, and he murmured, "Chengqian and Qingque, don't you even have this little dignity left?"

"Why is this happening? Why is this happening!"

Beside him, Zhang Ananda lowered his head and remained silent.

What can he say? Isn't it your Majesty who has caused the conflict between the Crown Prince and the King of Wei to this point today?

The King of Wei had to suppress the Crown Prince, and the Crown Prince had to be magnanimous and forgive the King of Wei.

How can you have your cake and eat it too?

the other side.

The King of Wei returned to Yankangfang with a gloomy face.

Chai Lingwu had been waiting here early.

Chai Lingwu's father, Chai Shao, died in the 12th year of Zhenguan.

Her mother, Princess Ping'an, died of illness in the sixth year of Wude.

He is the second son in the family, so his eldest brother Chai Zhewei is naturally responsible for all interpersonal relationships. He also inherited the political resources of his father and mother.

Chai Lingwu married Princess Baling and became the son-in-law of the Tang Dynasty. However, Princess Baling's biological mother was only a concubine in the palace and was posthumously named the Ninth Concubine after her death.

Therefore, for Chai Lingwu, the greatest political resource is King Li Tai of Wei.

"Why is the King of Wei like this?"

Upon hearing that King Wei had returned, Chai Lingwu rushed over. Seeing Li Tai's expression, he couldn't help but ask.

Li Tai waved his hand: "It's just a small matter, not worth mentioning, why did you come so early?"

He didn't want to mention what happened in the palace before, and there was not much point in it.

Chai Lingwu guessed that the King of Wei might have been humiliated by the Crown Prince, so he didn't want to ask any more questions.

Then he said, "It's something related to Lord Fang. I roughly guessed what Lord Fang was planning."

Hearing this, Li Tai immediately became interested and said, "Let's talk inside."

In the inner hall, after sending away the people around him, Chai Lingwu began to talk freely.

"On the day of the New Year's Day, Mr. Fang went to the Dali Temple on purpose. He must have gone to see Yin Hongzhi."

"In order to prevent the Crown Prince from knowing, I went there secretly during the Zhengdan Court."

"Only if Lord Fang comes in person, Yin Hongzhi will be willing to change his confession and use it to reveal the Crown Prince's rebellion."

"Yin Hongzhi was originally in collusion with Hegan Chengji, so it was only natural that the crown prince would be involved."

"The Crown Prince suddenly summoned the Prince of Qi back to Chang'an. Maybe he was worried that his rebellion would be exposed, so he cut off his tail to save his life."

"Mr. Fang's idea is to pin the blame of treason on the crown prince."

"The King of Qi is far away in Qizhou, and Yin Hongzhi is only the Chief Censor. How could he have the intention to rebel? He is obviously being driven by the Crown Prince. Otherwise, why would the Crown Prince want to protect the King of Qi?"

After hearing this, Li Tai couldn't help but applaud: "Seconds! Mr. Fang's plan is really ingenious."

"What are the King of Qi and Yin Hongzhi? How can they rebel?"

"The real mastermind behind this is the Crown Prince. Because of Hegannuo, the Crown Prince sacrificed his chariot to save his own body. He had his trusted guards contact the King of Qi early on and prepared a story."

"Otherwise, why would the King of Qi obey the Crown Prince's orders and return to Chang'an without the Emperor's decree?"

"In this way, everything can be explained."

Chai Lingwu said at the right time: "Now the most difficult thing for Lord Fang is to convince the King of Qi, and meeting without the Crown Prince knowing is also a problem."

“Perhaps the Housing Authority will do something during the Lantern Festival.”

Li Tai said with a smile: "Mr. Fang has helped me so much, how can I let him work too hard?"

"I will go to King Qi's place in person."

"Don't tell Lord Fang yet. Wait until I convince the King of Qi, then I'll tell Lord Fang the good news and give him a surprise."

Empress Changsun knew her son best, so she was right to say that Li Tai had an impatient temper.

After listening to this, Chai Lingwu felt something was wrong and had a bad premonition.

But when I think about it carefully, I don’t know what went wrong.

"Don't tell Mr. Fang secretly." Li Tai saw Chai Lingwu thinking and warned him.

Chai Lingwu came back to his senses and said, "Don't worry, King Wei. I will definitely not tell Lord Fang secretly. I am just worried that Fang Yiai will speak without restraint."

Li Tai thought so too, and said, "Then don't tell Fang Yiai about this."

(End of this chapter)