Legend of the Embroiderer

The proceedings of the court meeting were proceeding step by step, and everything seemed to be so well organized and smooth.

The solemn, elegant and generous etiquette, as well as the magnificent and unique charm of the Tang Dynasty, were like a colorful painting, displayed unreservedly to the envoys of various countries, making them amazed and dazzled.

Beneath this seemingly perfect appearance, Li Zhao and Su Mengyao's hearts were turbulent and it took them a long time to calm down.

The recent incident of the palace maid fainting was like a small stone thrown into a tranquil lake. Although on the surface, it only caused a few insignificant ripples, it soon returned to calm.

But in fact, the undercurrent hidden beneath the water has already begun to surge violently without anyone noticing.

Su Mengyao stood quietly behind the side door of the hall, her beautiful eyes fixed on the situation inside the hall without blinking, not missing any subtle movement or change.

She knew very well that every detail involved in this court meeting could become a key turning point in promoting the country's reform process.

Inside the spacious and bright hall, envoys from various countries were enthusiastically exchanging views with Tang officials on their respective countries' unique cultural traditions and brilliant achievements. The atmosphere was harmonious and lively.

"Miss Su, I wonder what you think of the current condition of the palace maid who fainted just now?" Just as Su Mengyao was concentrating on observing, a gentle voice suddenly came from the side.

It turned out to be a eunuch who was in charge of serving. He had a hint of worry on his face and asked cautiously.

Su Mengyao shook her head gently, and a hint of imperceptible worry flashed across her eyes that were originally as clear as water:

"From what I can tell, the maid simply fainted. However, this incident is so bizarre, and the timing is so fortuitous, that I'm worried this is just the beginning."

Hearing this, the eunuch couldn't help but look puzzled and asked, "The beginning? Does this mean there will be more unexpected things happening later?"

Su Mengyao lowered her voice and said softly, "The significance of today's court meeting is obvious and unquestionable!

Those who strongly oppose school reform will definitely not let go of such a rare opportunity. My sudden fainting may just be the first step in their attempts.

Hearing this, the eunuch's expression changed slightly in an instant. However, at this moment, Su Mengyao quickly regained her usual composure and composure.

She then methodically issued instructions, "You must immediately dispatch personnel and ensure close monitoring of the situation. If you discover even the slightest abnormality, you must report to me immediately without delay."

The eunuch responded respectfully, then hurriedly took the order and left. Su Mengyao's gaze once again turned to the solemn and majestic hall.

Li Zhao was chatting with the envoys from the neighboring country, with a smile as warm and gentle as the spring breeze on his face.

But if you look closely, you can easily find that his eyes have been scanning the surroundings intentionally or unintentionally, and he is highly alert to any possible changes.

Throughout the hall, the court meeting continued to proceed in an orderly manner.

The envoys from various countries could not help but marvel at the prosperity and solemnity of the Tang Dynasty and its elegant etiquette.

Taking advantage of this excellent opportunity, Li Zhao showed off the fruitful results achieved recently by many schools in the palace, and ordered a group of well-trained palace maids to perform a carefully prepared and wonderful song and dance, as well as a display of etiquette with various graces on stage.

After witnessing this scene, the envoys in the audience nodded frequently, expressing their sincere appreciation and admiration. In an instant, the atmosphere on the scene was pushed to an unprecedented climax.

Just when everyone was immersed in this harmonious and peaceful atmosphere, no one expected that an accident would happen again.

The envoy from the neighboring country suddenly stood up, his sharp hawk-like eyes shot straight at Li Zhao who was sitting on the high seat, and his words were full of provocation:

"Your Highness, the etiquette and manners advocated by your country are truly admirable. I cannot help but ask, Your Highness, how can you ensure that these palace maids do not develop impractical and unethical ideas due to their excessive learning?"

In an instant, the originally bustling hall became silent, as if time had stopped at this moment.

Everyone present focused their attention on Li Zhao. They held their breath and waited quietly for the noble prince to respond.

Faced with this sudden attack, Li Zhao simply smiled faintly. Although he was somewhat surprised, there was no trace of fear on his handsome face.

He said slowly, "Your Excellency, you may not know that knowledge can enlighten one's wisdom and make one understand the truth; while etiquette can cultivate a person's humility and make his behavior conform to the rules.

The palace maids strive to learn all kinds of knowledge, all for the sole purpose of assisting the monarch in handling affairs. It is absolutely impossible for them to have any inappropriate thoughts because of this. This is the governing strategy that the Tang Dynasty has always adhered to!

Hearing Li Zhao's righteous answer, the envoy raised the corner of his mouth slightly, revealing a barely perceptible smile. It was obvious that he did not intend to let the other party go so easily.

He then pressed on, "Your Highness, what you say is absolutely true. However, I still have a question in my mind: if the day ever comes when these palace maids, due to their knowledge, become dissatisfied with their current situation, what should be done then?"

Li Zhao's heart trembled, but he quickly regained his composure. "Your Excellency, the Tang Dynasty governs with benevolence. If the palace maids are dissatisfied, they must have been wronged. I will investigate the truth and handle it appropriately."

The messenger nodded slightly, seeming satisfied with Li Zhao's answer, but a barely perceptible cunning glint flashed in his eyes.

After the court meeting, the envoys from various countries left one after another, leaving only Li Zhao and Su Mengyao in the hall. They looked at each other, their hearts heavy.

"Yao'er, what do you think about what happened today?" Li Zhao asked softly.

Su Mengyao frowned slightly. "The messenger's question was clearly intentional. They wanted to use the court meeting as an opportunity to stir up doubts about the school's reforms."

Li Zhao nodded. "I think so too. It seems the opponents haven't given up, but have intensified their efforts."

Su Mengyao pondered for a moment, then raised her head, a firm look in her eyes. "Your Highness, we must speed up the pace of reform so that the palace maids can truly benefit from the academy. Only in this way can we shut those people up."

Li Zhao held her hand, his tone firm, "Alright, we can't give them another chance. From today on, I will personally oversee the progress of the school and ensure the smooth implementation of the reform."

Su Mengyao smiled slightly, her heart filled with warmth: "With your words, I feel relieved."

Just as the two were discussing countermeasures, hurried footsteps were heard outside the palace. A eunuch hurried in, looking panicked: "Your Highness, Miss Su, this is terrible! The textbooks from the palace school have been stolen!"

Li Zhao and Su Mengyao's expressions instantly turned serious. Su Mengyao's heart sank, she knew that this was no coincidence, but a conspiracy carefully planned by the opponents.

"Yao'er, go to the school first to appease the palace maids. I will go check it out immediately!" Li Zhao turned and left, and Su Mengyao followed closely behind.

Both of them knew that this reform had reached a critical moment, and those opponents were trying to use all means to make their efforts come to nothing.