Chapter 62: Li Chengqian is grateful!
Hearing Empress Zhangsun mention thermal undergarments, Li Chengqian nodded enthusiastically, “Thank you, Empress. The clothes are highly effective in keeping warm; I’ve never heard of them before!”
There’s a significant contrast between wearing and not wearing thermal underwear in winter.
“Who wears it knows!” Li Chengqian replied.
“Good to hear! Is the size suitable?” Empress Zhangsun inquired.
“Perfect fit! Mother, where did you get these? I’ve never heard of such clothing in our Tang dynasty. I’d like to purchase a few sets to gift to some teachers!” Li Chengqian expressed.
“They are sold by someone Li Zhi knows. I have them now, and I’m assisting in selling,” replied Empress Zhangsun.
“What’s the price?” Li Chengqian was surprised and happy to buy some as gifts.
“Fifty taels of silver per set,” she answered.
“Fifty… fifty taels of silver?” Li Chengqian was astonished.
“Although a bit pricey, they’re extremely effective, and with the current cold winter, the price is high,” explained Queen Zhangsun.
“You’re right! Did you before purchase the ones?” Li Chengqian inquired.
“That was a gift, thanks to Lizhi’s connections,” she clarified.
“So it’s related to Lizhi,” Li Chengqian smiled, noting the decent sibling relationships, except for his conflicts with Li Tai.
“If it wasn’t for Lizhi, I wouldn’t have known this remarkable person. Recently, there’s a chance for Lizhi to spend more time with him,” Empress Zhangsun revealed.
“An expert?” Li Chengqian hadn’t heard about this before.
“This person is incredibly talented, and your father has been eager to meet him. Only Lizhi knows his specific identity,” Empress Zhangsun shared.
With a nudge from Empress Zhangsun, Li Chengqian understood instantly. If he gained the support of such a talented person, his position as the crown prince would be even more secure.
This person is so remarkable that even Li Shimin desires to meet him but can’t.
Li Chengqian was both surprised and delighted, feeling very excited. This could be a significant advantage if this expert doesn’t know Li Tai and there’s no conflict of interest with Li Lizhi.
“Thank you for guiding me, Mother. I know what to do now,” Li Chengqian expressed his gratitude.
These are incredibly influential connections!
Seeing Li Chengqian so enthusiastic, Empress Zhangsun nodded in approval.
“It just so happens that the queen mother has secured an opportunity for you, a rare chance,” she remarked.
Upon hearing Empress Zhangsun’s words, Li Chengqian was excited and eager to express his gratitude.
“Mother, your efforts on my behalf are truly appreciated!”
“Child, be mindful of your words… This matter is crucial, and secrecy is paramount. Otherwise, the consequences could be dire,” Empress Zhangsun warned sternly.
Li Chengqian nodded solemnly, “I understand.”
Empress Zhangsun disclosed the details about anthracite and Li Shimin’s plan to deceive powerful families.
As the crown prince, Li Chengqian was entitled to such information. Learning about the influential figures behind Li Lizhi, Li Chengqian’s enthusiasm grew.
Understanding the significance of aligning himself with these influential figures, he realized that this connection would be his greatest asset in the future. Li Chengqian was left speechless for a while by the shocking revelations, primarily upon hearing about anthracite’s emergence and the plan to undermine powerful families. He knew that he had to seize this opportunity.
“Mother, what opportunity is this?”
“To address the refugee issue in Changan City, the expert suggested using employment to recruit and settle refugees. You will oversee this. It’s the chance your mother and Lizhi secured for you,” Empress Zhangsun explained with a smile.
In other words, Li Chengqian felt deeply grateful to Empress Zhangsun and Li Lizhi.
“Thank you, Mother!”
Understanding the task ahead, Li Chengqian was determined to make the most of this opportunity for its simplicity and potential to win people’s hearts.
“Keep the anthracite matter confidential, even from your teacher,” Empress Zhangsun emphasized.
“I understand!”
Determined, Li Chengqian aimed to excel in this task, satisfying the people, impressing his father and officials, and earning the approval of influential figures for their support.
“The heating issue is urgent. Start planning independently and figure out the best approach,” Empress Zhangsun advised.
“Rest assured, Mother. I’ll do my utmost!” Li Chengqian assured.
Satisfied, Empress Zhangsun concluded, “Mother will head back now. You’ll need warm underwear for Lizheng Hall to choose the right size.”