NOVEL SIMPLE Chapter 31: Li Shimin, who is thirsty for talents!
Li Shimin nodded, “Certainly remember, it was delightful, and I still savor it… but I had no idea what kind of meat it was!”
In Li Chengqian’s presence, Li Shimin couldn’t admit ignorance, but it didn’t matter to Empress Zhangsun.
Empress Zhangsun smiled and said, “Your Majesty, brace yourself for this!”
“Huh? Why do you say that?” Inquired Li Shimin.
“Your Majesty would never guess what meat it was!” Remarked Empress Zhangsun.
“Queen, don’t keep me in suspense. Tell me!” Li Shimin became increasingly curious.
Having lived most of his life without eating it, Li Shimin found it hard to swallow.
“I can’t believe it’s pork!” Stated Empress Zhangsun.
Li Shimin’s eyes widened at this revelation. “Is that true?” Li Shimin enthusiastically grabbed Empress Zhangsun’s arm, thrilled.
Empress Zhangsun nodded, “Li Zhi said it, no mistake! It couldn’t be beef or mutton either.”
“Divine craftsmanship!” Li Shimin was astonished, “To make pork taste like this is extraordinary!”
Not considering pork acceptable, Li Shimin was initially skeptical but now found it unbelievable.
Those who have tasted pork know it’s hard to describe, and Li Shimin had never thought it could be made to taste like this.
Empress Zhangsun also agreed, nodding, “The concubine was shocked to learn it was pork, and now Your Majesty has the chance to let the people of Tang Dynasty enjoy such pork.”
Improving the people’s lives would be a great achievement and leave a lasting legacy.
Li Shimin nodded, “I must meet this expert. If they are willing, I am prepared to grant titles and honors!”
Empress Zhangsun reassured, “Rest assured, Your Majesty. I will handle this matter well!”
Li Lizhi returned to the princess mansion and instructed, “Yushu, don’t let anyone near my bedroom without permission… no one is allowed to enter without my approval!”
“Yes, Your Royal Highness!” Yushu quickly responded.
Li Lizhi entered her bedroom and called Xiao Ran, but there was no response.
“Xiao Ran!”
Entering the bedroom, Li Lizhi found it empty. Realising Xiao Ran must be out, she walked into the bathroom. After applying lipstick and hand cream, Li Lizhi admired herself in the mirror and felt satisfied.
Seeing her toiletries, she felt happy about the luxuries the Tang Dynasty lacked.
Not finding Xiao Ran back yet, Li Lizhi returned to her bedroom, sat at the dressing table, and looked at the bronze mirror, finding it less impressive than Xiao Ran’s bathroom mirror.
Occasionally, she glanced towards the bedroom, got bored, and eventually fell asleep on the bed. Upon Xiao Ran’s return, he noticed Li Lizhi sleeping and decided not to disturb her. He, too, prepared for a nap.