The First National Preceptor of the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 33

Zheng Zhuangyuan had only been in officialdom for a few years, so his official position was unlikely to be very high, and he had only been in Dingxiang City for a few months.

His idea was incredibly audacious. In officialdom, there are no secrets that stay hidden forever. If he did this, it would be exposed very quickly. He was crazy, and Xu Tian didn't want to be dragged down with him.

And it's quite possible that Zheng Zhuangyuan will end up unscathed, making all the excuses, while he, a mere commoner, will be in trouble, possibly even dying without a burial place.

“You’re overthinking it. Why would I ruin my future for such a trivial matter?” Zheng Zhuangyuan was amused by his idea.

He continued, "There is a reason why I say this."

“My official rank is indeed not high, only the seventh rank, but I am under the command of Li Jiedushi, and I see him every day. I feel that he cared about you quite a bit before, and I think he still remembers you now.”

Li Jiedu is not an obstinate person; he is always willing to listen to the ideas and suggestions of his subordinates. I can find an opportunity to present your ideas to him.

If printed books can be widely distributed in the future, it will be a good thing for the people and a political achievement that the governor can talk about.

This was merely a matter of a word for him, something he could do with a snap of his fingers; if he agreed, no one else would object.

"Let Li Jiedu speak? Although it's a small matter for him, I have a feeling that it's unlikely."

He's a big shot, busy with countless affairs every day. Why would he bother with such trivial matters? What if he gets upset? Wouldn't that implicate you?" Xu Tian was somewhat worried.

"Whether it works or not, we can give it a try. If he really disagrees, he won't be angry. After all, I've been working with him for over a year and I know him better than you do. If I'm not worried, what are you afraid of?"

“Alright, then let’s give it a try. I trust Brother Zheng. I naturally hope to hire craftsmen from the government, and I believe in fairness. I’m willing to pay a hefty sum to hire them, and I will make sure the government doesn’t suffer any losses, so as to avoid any future gossip.”

“You’re right, that’s the best way. I’ve noticed that Li Jiedu has been quite happy lately, and I’ve heard that his illness has improved. Also, the matter of presenting the ‘Hundred Family Surnames’ as tribute, which I just mentioned, requires Li Jiedu’s approval. I can bring up both matters together, which makes it more likely.”

"Oh, I also heard that he seemed to have contracted an illness. Could it be that he has been cured?" Xu Tian recalled the rumors he had heard from Xi Siming. Could it be that Li Su's hidden ailment had been cured?

Judging from Zheng Zhuangyuan's words now, he seems unaware of what problem Li Su has in that area.

"Li Jiedushi is, after all, not young anymore, and he is often on the move. In addition, the affairs of Caizhou have taken a lot of energy to deal with, so it is inevitable that he has some lingering ailments."

However, it is said that a Taoist doctor was recently found who has a miraculous cure for difficult and complicated diseases. Judging from the governor's recent appearance, it seems that the cure is indeed effective, making him look several years younger.

"Speaking of which, Taoism truly produces many extraordinary individuals. You are one, and this doctor is another. In such a short time, I have encountered two such people here, both living in seclusion among the common people. It's quite remarkable how they complement each other."

"A doctor from a Taoist background?" Xu Tian pondered for a moment. "Taoists always have to work hard, unlike those monks who can stay in the temple and earn money from incense offerings. We wander the world and can only rely on our own skills to make a living."

"No, you probably don't understand. Monks also have to chant scriptures and perform rituals, sometimes for several days in a row, from morning to night. It's not easy for them. That's part of their skill." Zheng Zhuangyuan seemed to have a good impression of the monks and even made an excuse for them.

"That's true. I have to admit, real monks usually do have some skills." Xu Tian didn't want to argue about this matter.

“I would also like to get to know that Taoist doctor. I can introduce him to you then, and we can exchange ideas. That would be a good thing,” Zheng Xie suggested.