Chapter 8, Li Jingye has arrived, but what about Luo Binwang

Your Highness the Prince of Lu, there are people sent by His Majesty outside, claiming to be called Li Jingye

Seeing that Li Jingye had started boasting before even seeing the actual object, Li Xian couldn't help but chuckle inwardly, though he displayed an expression of admiration on his face: "So it turns out that Brother Li is truly remarkable? That is indeed wonderful. I have heard that the horse was bestowed upon my fifth brother by my father, and after two months, no one has been able to tame it. Many people in the Empress Dowager's palace have suffered injuries, but I never expected Brother Li to possess such skills!"

This response was naturally unexpected by everyone. At that moment, Li Zhi and Wu Zetian immediately relaxed their brows, while Yang, who was nearby, nodded in appreciation. He Lan Yan, standing behind the Korean lady, even gently brushed her fingers against her cheek. Li Xian faced those gazes with calmness that was hard to describe; a key element of lying is to maintain a steady face and a calm heart; otherwise, it is better to be honest.

Who is Li Ji? In the renowned tale of the Sui and Tang Heroes, Xu Maogong is one of the three great generals of the early Tang dynasty, proficient in both strategy and martial skills. After the deaths of Li Jing and Wang Li Daozong of Jiangxia, he became the undisputed first general of the Tang dynasty, known for his extreme caution and shrewdness. As for Li Jingye, he is overshadowed by the fame of Luo Binwang. Later generations evaluate Li Jingye as ambitious yet lacking in talent. However, as long as Li Xian is present, this fellow will never have the opportunity to rebel against the Tang dynasty!

In the evening, at m.hetushu.com, Li Zhi stayed in the Wu Palace for dinner. His two sons, along with his mother-in-law, sister-in-law, and niece, were present, as well as the wet nurse who brought along the six-year-old Prince Li Xian. The family was lively and cheerful, creating a delightful atmosphere. When the music ended and the guests departed, everyone returned to their respective places. However, the last to leave, Li Xian, was called to a halt at the door by A Qian.

After exchanging some pleasantries, Li Xian dismissed his father's eunuchs and led Li Jingye further inside. As they walked, he did not forget to praise Li Ji's remarkable military achievements from years past, ultimately taking the opportunity to address Li Jingye as "Elder Brother." In these times, everyone loves to hear kind words, and he naturally did not hold back.

Being a prince is not an easy task, especially with a domineering mother like Empress Wu above him and a capricious father like Li Zhi. However, for the sake of that horse named Tanyue, he naturally has to lend a hand to Li Hong this time

Upon hearing the somewhat irritated question from Empress Wu, Li Xian immediately interjected, saying: "In response to Father Emperor and Mother Empress, Fifth Brother happened to be unwell today due to the illness of both of his masters, so I took Fifth Brother to a secluded place and asked him to explain the Analects to me."

Hmm... This is a gift from my grandfather to Your Majesty. I have heard it is a fine breed from the Western Regions. It is said that many sought to tame it in the army... Many brave warriors have been thrown off its back, but I do not know how many. If it is this one, I...

Upon hearing that Empress Wu was looking for him, Li Xian's heart suddenly skipped a beat. He quickly nodded in agreement and sent away several of his accompanying eunuchs. As he made his way back, he began to inquire about the matter from A Qian: "What does Mother Empress want with me?"

Li Jingye's complexion changed drastically, and of course Li Xian noticed it. However, he still pretended to be confused and asked, "Brother Li, have you perhaps seen this horse before?"

The grandson of Duke Li Ji of England, Li Jingye? Li Xian's eyes rolled around, almost exclaiming in surprise. Fortunately, he reacted quickly and hurriedly thanked his mother for her thoughtful consideration, and only at the end did he ask: "How old is Li Jingye this year?"

Xian'er, I ask you, do you prefer literature or martial arts

Li Xian was in a great mood and immediately instructed, "Quickly let him in!"

Being addressed this way by his own mother, Li Xian felt somewhat embarrassed, but he quickly managed to brush it off. Once he left the Empress Wu's palace, he couldn't help but leap with joy a couple of times. Of course, it is beneficial to learn martial arts; if he could gather a group of military generals, even if Empress Wu turned against him in the future, he would still have the means to resist

Your Highness, the Prince of Lu, the Empress has something to say to you

Upon hearing this, Li Xian could not help but feel a surge of fear. Indeed, the people of this era are bold; who would dare to present an untameable horse to Li Zhi? Moreover, Li Zhi and Tu Shu actually bestowed it upon Crown Prince Li Hong, who then passed it on to him? Looking at Li Jingye's apprehensive expression, could it be that he has suffered under the hooves of this horse before?

Oh, what fierce steed has put His Highness in such a predicament? I have seen a few valiant horses in my grandfather's army; as long as the methods are appropriate, they can be easily subdued.

Did Your Highness not say that you enjoy archery and horseback riding? The Empress has spoken with His Majesty, and it seems that a companion has already been chosen for Your Highness. In the future, you can gradually select a master! The Empress also mentioned that Your Highness is not the type to remain idle, so it would be best to choose a reliable person to accompany you. This way, even if you sneak out, it will be much easier to find someone.

Li Xian was overjoyed upon hearing this. When mother and son met, they inevitably indulged in a lengthy conversation filled with flattery, until Wu Zetian was all smiles. Only then did he cease speaking and proceeded to inquire about the important matters.

After hastily changing into formal attire and stepping out the door, he saw the young man standing behind the attendant. The individual was dressed in dark robes and was exceptionally tall, exuding a vigorous aura, likely Li Jingye. When the man bowed and introduced himself, confirming his thoughts were correct, he stepped forward to personally assist Li Jingye. No, it should be said that with a gentle pull, Li Jingye stood up on his own.

As soon as he finished speaking, he suddenly recalled the saying about treating the worthy with respect, and thought that Li Jingye was, after all, the grandson of Li Ji. He quickly called out to that person: "Wait a moment, let me change my clothes and personally go to greet him!"

As soon as these two sentences were spoken, Li Jingye's expression changed immediately. When he arrived at the center of the courtyard and saw the horse, Tàxuě, which was snorting and stamping its hooves, with no one daring to approach, his expression became even more unpleasant.

Where did the two of you go today

He initially thought it was merely the Empress Dowager seeking to question him, but upon seeing Li Zhi present, along with his grandmother Yang and Lady Han, not to mention the awkward expression on He Lan Yan's face, he couldn't help but feel that this resembled a tribunal. He stole a glance at his unfortunate brother Li Hong, who seemed too afraid to even lift his head, and felt a twinge of pity for him.

He is on good terms with the palace maids around Empress Wu on ordinary days, so whenever there is news, they are willing to inform him. It is true that the Empress treats her subordinates generously, but he fully exploits his charm as a child, going to great lengths to appeal to the maternal instincts of those women. As a result, he has nearly won over all the maids around this Empress, and the cost has only been some acts of coquetry.

He is thirteen this year; if he weren't older, I would be worried that you might lead him astray

The sudden question left Li Xian momentarily stunned, but he certainly did not wish to face mountains of classical texts every day like Li Hong, so he readily replied: "Of course, I enjoy martial pursuits!"

Seeing Li Jingye's face flush with color, he suddenly changed his tone and said: "www.hetushu.com. I have a fierce horse, recently gifted by the Crown Prince. I wonder if you, Brother Li, dare to give it a try"

It seems I was right in speaking to your father, the Emperor! Empress Wu waved for him to come up, and after fondly ruffling his hair for a while, she smiled and said, "You are sturdier than Hong'er; at just eight years old, you are already as tall as he is. You have always been lively and mischievous, so it would be good to have someone to look after you. A few days ago, the Duke of England brought several grandsons into the palace, and your father has taken a liking to his eldest grandson, Li Jingye. Since you are still living in the palace and have not established a residence, it is not convenient to give him any formal title, so for now, he will just be your companion in study." A few days ago, the Duke of England brought several grandsons into the palace, and your father has taken a liking to his eldest grandson, Li Jingye. Since you are still living in the palace and have not established a residence, it is not convenient to give him any formal title, so for now, he will just be your companion in study.

Early the next morning, Li Hong sent over the horse named Treading Snow. Upon seeing the glossy black horse, Li Xian praised it for quite some time, only to then remember that he did not have a suitable groom here. It would definitely be unfeasible to have the person who looked after the little horse take care of this obviously unruly creature.

Ah, so it is this. How did it come to be here with Your Highness

Li Zhi selected several key passages from the Analects to inquire about, and upon seeing Li Xian respond fluently, he was naturally very pleased with his two sons' affectionate and studious nature, resulting in a large number of rewards. As the Crown Prince and elder brother, Li Hong received a substantial collection of imperial books, while Li Xian received more practical gifts, including various toys, clothing, and utensils. Furthermore, considering that Li Hong still owed him a fine horse, he felt even more delighted.