NOVEL WEB Chapter 30: Secret Talk of Li Shimin’s Grandson Empress (1)
Empress Zhangsun presented a hot water bottle and said, “Your Majesty, take a look at this.”
Li Shimin took the hot water bottle, surprised by its texture as if he hadn’t encountered one before.
The key is that it’s warm and feels good in your hand.
“What is this? What’s its purpose?” Inquired Li Shimin.
“Lizhi gave this, called a hot water bottle. You fill it with hot water and hold it to warm your hands, body, and feet,” explained Empress Zhangsun. “A few days ago, I had a relapse of an old ailment, and thanks to Lizhi’s gift, my frostbitten feet are much better now.”
Feeling guilty for not visiting, Li Shimin gently embraced Empress Zhangsun.
“It’s not Your Majesty’s neglect! With the affairs of the state, how can you be bothered by such trivial matters?” Reassured Empress Zhangsun. “Moreover, Lizhi, Chengqian, and others show care every day. The people of the Tang Dynasty need Your Majesty more than I do!”
Empress Zhangsun continued, “Lizhi received this from someone she met, an expert.”
Li Shimin pondered, “Why do I feel like this expert and the master chef are the same person!”
“I share the same thought,” smiled Empress Zhangsun, fond of Li Lizhi.
She added, “Lizhi seems hesitant to reveal details about the expert. She left hurriedly when I mentioned Your Majesty’s concerns.”
Understanding the situation, Li Shimin quickly donned the thermal clothes Empress Zhangsun received from Lizhi. He found the material soft and had good thermal effects.
“How is the effect?” He inquired.
“Excellent! This looks thin but is warmer than what I had before. It’s comfortable to wear at night,” praised Empress Zhangsun.
Li Shimin, pleased, said, “Lizhi seems to have met an expert indeed. I would like to meet this person. With the current affairs in the Tang Dynasty, having such an advisor would be beneficial.”
“Your Majesty, this matter requires patience,” cautioned Empress Zhangsun.
Smiling, Li Shimin acknowledged, “Having you is my great fortune!”
Empress Zhangsun, picking up sweet potato porridge, urged, “Don’t waste this. It tastes good!”
Li Shimin, taking the porridge, continued to enjoy it.
“Your Majesty, leave this matter to me. If you trust me, I will find a way for this expert to advise the Tang Dynasty,” proposed Empress Zhangsun.
Nodding, Li Shimin affirmed, “I trust you, Empress!”
Empress Zhangsun continued, “These meals not only showcase exceptional culinary skills but also include rare ingredients.”
Li Shimin agreed, “You’re right. I don’t even know what’s in this porridge now. It’s unique, something the Tang Dynasty doesn’t have.”
“Lizhi mentioned it’s sweet potato,” shared Empress Zhangsun. “Sweet potatoes?” Murmured Li Shimin, “I wonder about the yield and if they can be grown in the Tang Dynasty.”
Considering the common people, Li Shimin thought of the meat from the previous afternoon, prompting Empress Zhangsun to ask, “Does Your Majesty remember the meat from yesterday afternoon?”