Chapter 84:
Thinking back to the little princesss exaggerated description of the delicious food in the Princess Mansion yesterday, Li Er had initially dismissed it as a childs cravings.
But as he ate the seemingly ordinary buns, he realized there was something different about them. The incredibly strong, fragrant, and tender taste gave him unprecedented sensation.
How is this done? Li Er couldnt help but tilt his head, wanting to inquire.
However, seeing Su Li and Changle eating calmly and nonchalantly, Li Er felt slightly embarrassed. He thought, they may think Im making a big fuss if I ask.
Subsequently, Li Er continued to try other dishes. Even the lamb in the soup cake was treated specially, devoid of the usual gamy flavor, and the soup was exceptionally delicious, thoroughly satisfying Li Er.
Even the seemingly plain side dishes were crisp, delicious, and fragrant. After consuming two bowls of lamb soup cake and three large buns, Li Er let out a satisfied burp and put down his utensils.
Eating such a variety of delicacies, the regular home-cooked meals here have a unique flavor. Not bad, Li Er nodded contentedly.
Afterward, he casually added, The cooks in your mansion are good. Ill have them sent to the palace later.
Su Li agreed outwardly but felt a sense of disdain internally. After all, the system produced the ingredients used in their daily meals. Even a random seasoning from Su Lis inventory was far superior to the diverse spices of the Tang Dynasty.
Therefore, no matter who it was, whether they were a long-established aristocratic family or a renowned official or general, everyone in the Tang Dynasty, in Su Lis eyes, was rather unsophisticated.
Even Emperor Li Er, who had experienced many delicacies, was a well-fed bumpkin. There wasnt much of a difference, in essence.
After the meal, it was already mid-morning.
During this period, take good care of Changle at home. Consider what Ive said carefully. After all, youre still young, Li Er said to Su Li, leaving him with some advice before patting his belly and departing with the two cooks from the princesss mansion.
On the way back, Li Er wasnt idle. He pondered when Su Li could go to the army after Changles recovery.
Li Er wasnt aware of Changles true reason, thinking it was just an excuse. He was still excitedly planning.
With Su Dingfangs encouragement, once Su Li decides to enter the military, we can promote Su Dingfang. Su Dingfang has been in the army for a long time and is Su Lis elder brother. With his influence, Su Li might become interested in military life. The two brothers charging into battle for me will become a great story when hes on the battlefield!
Having Su Dingfang pave the way, Su Li will surely choose to enter the military. By then, we can have Li Jing personally instruct him. With the ability to throw elephants and master Li Jings strategies and tactics, even if Xiang Yu were to be reborn, he might not be a match for Su Li! A supremely invincible general surpassing Xiang Yu will emerge in our Tang army!
However, Su Li didnt have any firsthand experience of Li Ers role as an emperor. Most of his impressions were derived from stereotypes in books.
During the Xuanwu Gate Incident, Su Li was just an ordinary peasant. To be honest, Li Ers killing his brother and executing others had little impact on common people like Su Li. After all, who the emperor was didnt affect their daily lives, right?
But recently, Li Ers sudden interest in having Su Li lead troops and his frequent visits to the Princess Mansion changed Su Lis perspective. With more exposure, Su Li increasingly realized that his previous understanding of Li Er had been too superficial.
He had initially believed that Li Er, as an emperor, would be ruthless and decisive. The revered First Emperor? The Heavenly Khan of All Nations? Its all just nonsense!
Looked at how diligent Li Er had been lately, not at all resembling the image of an emperor who commanded vast territories. Every time he visited, they would exchange only a few words before Li Er would bring up old matters to influence Su Li.
He wouldnt be worried if Li Er were to truly exert his emperors authority or force Su Li into something. What unsettled him was Li Ers lack of dignity, showing up every day, speaking so kindly, and adopting the manner of an esteemed guest. This kind of Li Er truly left Su Li feeling helpless.
My dear, why dont you just follow the Emperor? Ive never seen him so invested in someone. If he doesnt go to the battlefield and only studies military strategy under the Duke, wouldnt that be a good choice? Changle hugged Su Lis arm and whispered.
Li Ers strategy hadnt convinced Su Li but had stirred Changles thoughts.
Su Li shook his head. Im not ready for that.
Su Lis understanding of military strategy was limited to basic concepts. He knew he would only ever be a mediocre general, even if he learned more.
Of course for now, with Princess Changles help, Su Lis attributes would eventually improve. Learning military strategy now would be inefficient. Waiting for his attributes to improve would be more fruitful.
Moreover, if I were to learn military strategy, I wouldnt be able to stay home like I do now, Su Li softly added.
And Im sure you dont want me to spend less time with you, right, my lady?
Changle blushed suddenly, and this reason alone was convincing enough.
Between her father and husband, Changle wholeheartedly stood by Su Lis side.
Husband, if youre unwilling, we can think of ways to change my fathers mind. Or maybe I should go and ask the Empress Mother? If she intervenes, my father should listen.
Su Li smiled and fondly patted Changles head. He knew that if it were any other issue, Empress Zhangsun might speak up. But at the end of the day, Li Ers intentions were for the betterment of the Tang Dynasty.
