xymnovel Chapter 97 Matters of Children
Chapter 97 Matters of Children
Chapter 97 Matters of Children
After several days of continuous work by the Ministry of Rites, the procedures for the prince's funeral and the initial announcements were finally sorted out.
The subsequent implementation was handled by government offices such as the Court of Imperial Sacrifices and the Court of Imperial Banquets.
Zhao Tingzhi and Li Gefei, the two main organizers, were finally able to catch their breath and go home on time.
After a day off, Li Gefei remembered his promise to Zhao Tingzhi a few days earlier, sent him a formal invitation, and in the afternoon, he traveled lightly to visit Zhao's residence.
The gatekeeper of the Zhao residence naturally recognized the official as a fellow townsman, old friend, and colleague from the Ministry of Rites, and respectfully welcomed Li Gefei into the main hall.
Zhao Tingzhi had been waiting for a while. Seeing that Li Gefei's face still looked tired but his spirits were still good, he felt relieved and quickly got up to greet him.
"Uncle Wen is here. Please have a seat. You must be exhausted these past two days. Judging from your complexion, you need to take good care of yourself."
"Thank you for your concern, Brother Zhao. We are in the same boat. Brother Zhengfu has also been working hard."
Li Gefei returned the greeting with a cupped hand and sat down in the guest seat.
A maidservant served fragrant tea, its color a bright orange-yellow, carrying a unique, refreshing aroma characteristic of the mountains and fields—quite exquisite.
This tea was a gift from Emperor Huizong of Tang to Zhao Mingcheng. Zhao Mingcheng couldn't finish it himself, so he gave it to his father.
After exchanging a few pleasantries, the conversation naturally turned to the recent national mourning and the ongoing political turmoil, both expressing deep regret.
However, at this sensitive time, it is not convenient to discuss many things in detail. We can only speak in general terms and express our feelings about "the heavens not granting him a long life" and "the country facing many difficulties."
After taking a sip of tea, Li Gefei shifted the topic to a more relaxed one, and sincerely praised the tea.
"I have benefited greatly from working with Brother Zhengfu recently. Speaking of which, Brother Zhengfu is not only exceptionally talented, but also very good at raising his children."
I have heard that your son, Mingcheng, at such a young age, has been able to take charge of the Hehuang region and make great contributions to the security of the border. After returning to the capital, the Emperor personally bestowed upon him a purple-gold fish-shaped pouch, adding to his honor.
Moreover, I've heard that his studies at the Imperial Academy are equally outstanding, and his essays and policy proposals often receive praise from his teachers. Like father, like son; Brother Zhengfu has a worthy successor—congratulations indeed!
When Zhao Tingzhi mentioned his son Zhao Mingcheng, a genuine smile appeared on his usually serious face. He was quite proud, but he remained modest.
"Uncle Wen, you flatter me. My son only achieved some small successes because of good fortune and the Emperor's favor."
As for his studies at the Imperial Academy, he was merely fulfilling his duties diligently and studying assiduously; he doesn't deserve the title of "extraordinary." However, his temperament remains somewhat unruly and needs further tempering.
Despite Zhao Tingzhi's words, the fine lines at the corners of his eyes revealed the old father's immense satisfaction.
After exchanging pleasantries, Zhao Tingzhi followed suit.
"Speaking of which, Uncle Wen's daughter is the real model of a young lady."
I have long heard of your daughter's talent; her poetry and prose are second to none. Even your learning, Uncle Wen, has been inherited by her by seven or eight parts, hasn't it?
A few days ago, it seems your daughter even had new lyrics circulating among the literati of Bianjing, elegant and refined, with a lofty style. Wen Shu is truly blessed to have such a daughter.
Hearing praise for his daughter made Li Gefei feel equally pleased, especially since it was Zhao Tingzhi, a man of such high status and always known for his composure, who made him feel even more honored.
But Li Gefei also knew that his daughter's talent was not necessarily a blessing, so he shook his head and sighed.
"Brother Zhengfu, you flatter me. My daughter only knows a few characters and scribbles some words haphazardly. Occasionally, these words are sung in colloquial language, but they are not worth mentioning."
A daughter should ultimately be virtuous and gentle; such literary pursuits sometimes attract criticism, which leaves me, as her father, with mixed feelings of joy and worry.
The two were praising and modestly discussing their children when they suddenly heard footsteps and voices coming from outside the hall.
It was Zhao Mingcheng who returned from outside.
Recently, Emperor Huizong has been spending his time at Baoci Palace praying for blessings with the Empress Dowager, rather than at the Prince Duan's residence, so Zhao Mingcheng has focused his attention on business operations.
He had just returned from checking on the business at several shops when the steward told him that his father was receiving a guest in the hall, the guest being Li Gefei, an official in the Ministry of Rites.
Zhao Mingcheng straightened his clothes and headed towards the main hall.
"Father." Zhao Mingcheng entered the hall, first bowing to Zhao Tingzhi, then turning to Li Gefei with a respectful yet composed demeanor, and bowed deeply.
"Junior Zhao Mingcheng greets Uncle Li. I was unaware of your arrival and apologize for not welcoming you properly."
Li Gefei had already sized up Zhao Mingcheng the moment he entered.
Zhao Mingcheng was tall and imposing, with a handsome face, a restrained air of heroism between his brows, clear and steady eyes, and a steady gait. His greetings were also very proper and generous.
He showed none of the frivolousness of a typical rich kid, nor the arrogance of a newly rich and meritorious official.
Li Gefei nodded inwardly; Zhao Mingcheng had given him an excellent first impression.
"Nephew, there's no need for such formalities. Please rise." Li Gefei offered a slight gesture of support and said gently, "I have long admired your esteemed name, nephew. Your achievements in the Hehuang region are truly remarkable. Meeting you today, I can confirm your extraordinary bearing."
"Uncle, you flatter me. I am young and inexperienced, and I have only managed to achieve some minor merit. This is all thanks to the prestige of the court and the bravery of the soldiers. I dare not call myself a hero," Zhao Mingcheng replied humbly, adopting a very modest posture.
Zhao Tingzhi was pleased to see that his son had handled the situation well, and said...
"Mingcheng, your Uncle Li is no outsider. Sit down and let's talk. It just so happens that your Uncle Li asked about your affairs in the Hehuang region. Tell us briefly, but don't exaggerate."
"Yes, Father."
Zhao Mingcheng took his seat at the lower end of the table. Then, in response to Li Gefei's question, he briefly talked about the local customs and conditions of the Hehuang region and the policies for pacifying and pacifying the people. His words were clear and logical, highlighting the key points. He neither exaggerated the military achievements nor deliberately belittled the difficulties. He spoke plainly and simply.
When discussing the Imperial Academy's coursework and recent policy essay topics, Zhao Mingcheng could also cite classical texts and speak eloquently, offering insightful opinions.
Even when Li Gefei casually mentions collecting bronze and stone inscriptions, Zhao Mingcheng is able to join the conversation.
When discussing his insights into identifying ancient artifacts and textual research on inscriptions, Zhao Mingcheng excels at it.
Li Gefei became increasingly surprised as he listened.
Zhao Mingcheng is so young, yet he has such a wealth of experience. What's even more remarkable is that he is proficient in both literature and martial arts, has excellent knowledge and eloquence, and always maintains a humble and composed demeanor, without any arrogance of a young man who has achieved success.
Talking with this young man was like a breath of fresh air, without any awkwardness, and my opinion of him rose even higher.
After chatting for about half an hour, Zhao Mingcheng saw that his father and Li Gefei seemed to have more to say, so he got up and took his leave.
"Father, Uncle Li, I have some trivial matters to attend to, so please excuse me for now. If you have time, Uncle Li, please stay at my humble abode for a while longer, and I will come back to listen to your teachings later."
"Nephew, please go about your business. There's no need for formalities," Li Gefei nodded with a smile.
After Zhao Mingcheng left, Li Gefei couldn't help but sigh to Zhao Tingzhi.
"Brother Zhengfu, I had only heard others say how remarkable your son was before, but after seeing him today, I know that what they said is true."
Your son's speech, insight, and composure far surpass those of his peers. Even more remarkable is his humility despite his great achievements and his earnestness in discussing scholarship. He is truly a man of exceptional talent and character. Brother Zhengfu is truly fortunate to have such a fine son.
Zhao Tingzhi stroked his beard and smiled, this time not being overly modest.
"My son is indeed quite ambitious and does not disgrace the family tradition. However, the road ahead is long, and he still needs to work hard and strive to improve himself so as not to fail the Emperor's grace and bring shame to the family."
Even so, the pride in Zhao Tingzhi's eyes intensified.
After chatting for a while, Li Gefei, seeing that it was getting late, got up to take his leave. Zhao Tingzhi personally saw him off at the gate and agreed to visit each other more often in the future.
Back at his own residence, Li Gefei's mind was still filled with what he had seen and heard at the Zhao residence, especially Zhao Mingcheng's calm and composed demeanor.
As soon as she sat down in the study, Li Qingzhao personally brought in a cup of tea from Xinhu.
-
She heard that her father had gone to the Zhao residence today, and she wanted to take the opportunity to find out about Zhao Mingcheng from him.
"Father is back," Li Qingzhao said, gently placing the teacup on the desk.
"Daughter, I heard from the gatekeeper that Father went to Uncle Zhao's residence today?"
Li Gefei was thinking about the Zhao family's affairs when he heard this. He looked up, took the tea, and casually replied.
"Yes, go catch up with your Uncle Zhao. He's been busy these past few days, it's rare for him to have some free time."
Li Qingzhao stood aside and did not leave immediately, seemingly asking casually.
"Uncle Zhao's residence—how is everything? I heard that Uncle Zhao's son returned from the Hehuang region a few days ago and performed a great service. I wonder if Father has seen him today?"
Li Gefei took a sip of tea, glanced at his daughter, and saw that she looked normal, but there was a hint of curiosity in her eyes, so he said...
"I met him. The young master of the Zhao family is indeed a handsome man. His speech and manners are quite refined. He also spoke briefly about the affairs of the Hehuang region. He is truly a rare find."
Li Gefei paused, then, remembering that his nephew Li Jiong seemed to be on good terms with Zhao Mingcheng, said...
"Your elder brother and the young master of the Zhao family are both at the Imperial Academy, so you must often mention them, right?"
"Yes, Father, my elder brother did mention it a few times, saying that Young Master Zhao is exceptionally talented and insightful."
Li Qingzhao answered her father's words naturally.
"My daughter just feels that the young master of the Zhao family is about the same age as my brother, yet he was able to go to the frontier and make great achievements, which is truly admirable."
Li Gefei had no doubts; on the contrary, he thought it was quite remarkable that his daughter had such insight.
He then briefly recounted his impressions of his conversation with Zhao Mingcheng that day.
"This child is indeed extraordinary. He not only has insights into border affairs, but also speaks eloquently about literature, economics, and even antiques and antiques. Moreover, he is respectful, calm and composed, which is rare among his peers."
Li Qingzhao listened quietly, her face expressionless, but a slight ripple stirred within her heart.
My father has very high standards, and to receive such a high evaluation from him shows that Zhao Mingcheng is indeed extraordinary.
Li Qingzhao recalled the quirky and amusing cartoon, the insightful policy essay, and combined it with her father's evaluation, a more three-dimensional and vivid image emerged in her mind.
After exchanging a few more pleasantries with her father, Li Qingzhao obediently withdrew and returned to her Yi'an Pavilion.
After his daughter left, Li Gefei held his teacup, but his thoughts gradually drifted away.
The prince died young, the emperor fell into a coma, and the Empress Dowager took over the administration of the palace.
The political situation in this court is already brewing, with a storm brewing.
Li Gefei was a relatively pure intellectual. Although he was not good at factional struggles, he was not completely ignorant of politics.
Everyone can see the current situation.
The Emperor is still in a coma. If anything were to happen to him, the successor would have to be either Prince Duan or Prince Jian.
Zhao Mingcheng had a close relationship with Prince Duan, which was known to almost everyone in Bianjing.
Meeting him today, I see that Zhao Mingcheng is indeed outstanding, young and promising, with a solid foundation and a limitless future.
He then recalled his daughter's seemingly unintentional but actually deliberate question earlier.
Qingzhao, this child, is proud and arrogant, and ordinary men rarely catch her eye. Yet today, she took the initiative to ask about Zhao Mingcheng.
Could it be?
A thought struck Li Gefei.
Considering that Zhao Mingcheng should be unmarried, and his own daughter is of marriageable age, she is an excellent choice in terms of appearance, character, and talent.
The Zhao family is a family of scholars and poets. Zhao Tingzhi rose to the position of Vice Minister of Rites, a distinguished and prestigious official. Zhao Mingcheng himself is an outstanding young man with a bright future.
The Li family is also a scholarly family, a lineage of refined scholars, and the two families can be considered a true match in terms of social standing.
If his family could form a marriage alliance with the Zhao family, it would undoubtedly be the icing on the cake for the Li family, and would also provide their daughter with an excellent home.
For the Zhao family, the Li family's good reputation, his own prestige, and his daughter's talent, character, and appearance made them a good match.
Most importantly, at this delicate juncture in the political landscape and with an uncertain future, if a marriage alliance could be established, it would be possible to forge a bond with Prince Duan, who clearly favors him.
Furthermore, binding the Zhao family, which has great potential, even more tightly might be beneficial to the future stability of the Li family.
This is not Li Gefei currying favor with the powerful, but rather a consideration he has to make given his position and the times he is in.
Thinking of this, Li Gefei became restless.
He got up and paced around the study a few times, the more he thought about it, the more feasible it seemed.
After dinner, Li Gefei invited Wang (his second wife, Li Qingzhao's stepmother) to his study, dismissed the servants, and tactfully explained his thoughts.
Wang was Wang Gongchen's granddaughter. She was also a reasonable person. When she heard that her husband intended to form a marriage alliance with the Zhao family, she was first surprised, and then pondered for a moment.
"Are you referring to the Zhao family of the Ministry of Rites, sir?"
I have heard of his reputation; he is truly a dragon among men.
"I have always been concerned about Qingzhao's marriage. An ordinary family might be beneath her, but if the Zhao family truly intends to marry her, it would be an excellent match. The Zhao family is of noble birth, Minister Zhao is upright, and the young master is young and promising, close in age to Qingzhao—but I wonder what the Zhao family thinks? And Qingzhao herself—is she willing?"
Li Gefei said.
"I need to find an opportunity to sound out the Zhao family. As for Qingzhao—"
Li Gefei recalled his daughter's expression when she asked about Zhao Mingcheng today. Although it wasn't obvious, based on his understanding of his daughter, he knew that behind that curiosity, there might not be no dislike for him.
"This child is proud, but not unreasonable. Zhao Mingcheng is a man of excellent talent, appearance, and character. I think she wouldn't object. This matter concerns her entire life, so I will find an opportunity to ask her opinion. I will not force her."
Madam Wang nodded: "Sir, you have thought things through. If this marriage can truly come to fruition, that would be wonderful. However, there are many troubles in the court now, so when you mention it, you should carefully consider the timing and your words."
"Of course." Li Gefei nodded, already having made up his mind.
He planned to wait a while, until the political situation stabilized, and then find another pretext to subtly probe Zhao Tingzhi.