Love Affairs in Chang'an - Chapter 182

Chapter 182 Great Tang Army God
It was rare for the family to be so lively. Both father and son drank a lot of wine. After sending off the guests, Qin Shubao went back to his room to take a nap. Qin Mubai didn’t want to disturb her father, so she was happy to take a nap. She invited her father to visit Li Jing later.

As for Li Jing, most people who knew a little about history were familiar with him. Qin Mubai did not know much about history, and he had long heard of Li Jing’s name in the Great Tang Dynasty.

In short, Li Jing is synonymous with a famous general and a victorious general. In the Great Tang of Zhenguan, he was the number one old lodger in the army, the pillar that no one could replace. As long as he participated in the war, there was no one who could not win.

Li Jing was born in an official family and was the nephew of Han Qinhu, a famous general of the Sui Dynasty. Han Qinghu had taught him martial arts since childhood, and Li Jing had demonstrated his superior military talent when he was young, and he was famous among the officials of the Sui Dynasty for his talent. Minister of Officials Niu Hong praised him for having “Wang Zuo’s talent”, and former Sui general and left servant She Yang Su also praised him endlessly.

Later on, Li Jing subordinated to the Great Tang and followed Li Shimin’s expedition to the East and the West, beginning to show his face and make great contributions to the war. Pacify wang shichong, set luoyang war tiger prison, Li Jing because of military service entrusted to open the manor; Nanping Xiaomian and Li Jing presented the famous “Ten Strategies for Flat Milling”.

The Battle of Pingnan was the first glorious point in Li Jing’s life. Although Li Xiaogong was called Commander-in-Chief, the commander in chief who actually commanded the three armies to fight was Li Jing. Shortly after, he and Li Xiaogong pacified the rebellion initiated by Du Fuwei and Fu Gongyi in Jiangnan, thus completely pacifying the Jiangnan region. At this point, Li Jing had already laid down an entire half of Jiangnan for the Great Tang!

After Li Shimin ascended the throne, Li Jing welcomed the highest point of his military career. Li Jing was famous throughout the world for capturing Jieli Khan alive and eliminating the greatest hidden danger of the Great Tang in the north. From this moment onwards, Li Jing became the number one soldier in the Great Tang irreplaceable, and even Emperor Li Shimin called him brother. But Li Jing is modest, cautious, low-key and frugal. He never takes pride in his achievements, and repeatedly retreats bravely after he succeeds.

After pacifying the Turks, Li Jing, who had a foot disease, ignored the emperor’s reluctance to stay and resign as prime minister and recovered from his illness at home. But not long after, a rebellion broke out in Tuyuhun. Li Jing, who was already sixty years old and suffering from a persistent illness, was energetic enough to lead the army. He led the five marching army commanders, Li Daozong, Hou Junji, Li Daliang, Li Daoyan, and Gao Zensheng, and attacked Tuyuhun in the west.

When Qin Mubai’s soul crossed over, it was not long before the triumphant voice of the Great Tang calmed down the valley, so he was extremely impressed. The Imperial Court held a celebration banquet for Li Jing and the other generals, and invited Qin Shubao, who had been idle at home for a long time, to attend. He remembered that the Great Tang had not only quelled Tuyu Hun’s rebellion, but had also attacked the fleeing Tuyu Hun, Fuyun Khan, and killed horses and drank blood from thousands of kilometers away. Fuyun Khan led more than a thousand cavalry to flee to the moraine, has reached the end of the mountain, subordinates have dispersed. Soon, Fuyun Khan was killed by his subordinates. Its eldest son, King Daning, Murong Shun, killed King Tianzhu and led the way to the Tang Empire. After two months of bloody battles, Li Jing led his troops to calm down Tuyuhun and win in the capital.

At this point, Tuyu Hun had completely become a subsidiary country of the Great Tang, respecting the Great Tang as a courtesy to his son. Li Jing led his army to win several classic battles, which also caused the majestic might of the Great Tang Dynasty to shake Bian Long to the Western Regions, causing the barbarian kingdoms of the various states to be afraid to surrender one after another.

Because of this great contribution, Li Jing was conferred the title of Duke Wei, a minister of the Extreme Human Realm. However, Li Jing still resigned and retreated in seclusion. Therefore, Qin Mubai rarely saw Li Jing with his own eyes in the court class and never had a single conversation with him.

If he wanted to become his apprentice, apart from the Emperor’s acquiescence and recommendation, it wouldn’t be enough for him to run away. Qin Mubai thought that if he invited his father along with him, the success rate would be higher.

Regardless of whether it was in the era of the Great Tang or in the history of China, Li Jing was a famous figure. From the bottom of his heart, Qin Mubai still had a lot of respect for Li Jing.

After returning to his room for an hour, the stench of alcohol had dissipated. Qin Mubai went to pay his respects to his father. Qin Shubao happily drank a few more cups today and was still sleeping. Mrs. Liu was waiting on him in the room with sober soup. Just as he was about to knock on the door, Qin Mubai heard his parents talking inside.

“Saburo is stupid. If a good Duke marries her, he will just pester a Wu Meiniang.” Obviously, it was Qin Shubao’s voice. He said, “I don’t dislike Wu Meiniang. However, if the Emperor marries her, can he let Princess Gao Yang be his concubine? I think Saburo and Wu Meiniang are in love. If they can’t part with each other at that time, it will be him who will be in trouble.”

“Uncle Bao, Saburo is a smart child. He will definitely be able to take care of it clearly. We don’t need to worry too much.” Mrs. Liu said, “Today, I have spent half a day with Mother Mei. I feel that this child’s manners are decent and generous. She is worthy of Saburo and is a suitable mistress. On the contrary, although Princess Gao Yang is a golden leaf, she is not as respectful as Mother Wu Mei. She is like a child who has no trouble.”

“What do you know?” Qin Shubao said, “When a woman marries someone, it’s the same as before.” Wu Meiniang was calmer and more capable than Princess Gaoyang, but her heart was also heavy and deep, so she might not really be a good daughter-in-law. Gaoyang, on the other hand, was wholeheartedly devoted to Sanlang. Where could such a woman be found, let alone a princess? She had been born into the royal family since childhood, so it was reasonable for her to be simple and childish. But as long as she was kind and reasonable, she would be a good wife. “I am glad that Sanlang will marry the princess.”

“Hey, Uncle Bao, I said don’t worry so much.” Mrs. Liu said, “Marriage is a big matter. Although it is the matchmaker ordered by their parents, they are still the ones who live. Only they know whether their life is good or not. I think Saburo has a book in his heart that can handle the affairs of these two women properly.”

“What nonsense are you talking about? Can we not worry about our son’s marriage?” Qin Shubao said, “Big Lang and Erlang have been married for a long time. Only this Sanlang has been making his son romantic. If the emperor really gave him a marriage, he must marry him. If he doesn’t marry, he must marry him!”

“Alright, alright, what you said is correct, alright? Don’t get angry, quickly drink the sober-up soup!” Madam Liu hurriedly consoled.

“Saburo is spoiled by you, hmph!”

…

Qin Mubai’s scalp tightened when he heard this outside the door. It seemed that his father had a good impression of Princess Gaoyang, but he still had a prejudice against Wu Meiniang … Forget it, what are you thinking about it for now? First, the emperor hasn’t officially bestowed a marriage, and secondly, my marriage with Wu Meiniang is still a year away. In this year, there were many things that could happen. Right now, there are two major events in front of me. First, I want to learn from Li Jing and obtain this golden signboard of “Li Jing’s disciple”. Second, we have to consider the matter of job-hopping. The affection between a child and a snowy moon, if you have time, you can think about it again!

Qin Mubai walked to the side and waited for a long time. After her mother came out of the room, she went to pay her respects to her father.

There was some alcohol in the room. Qin Shubao’s face was still red, but he seemed to be in a good mood.

“Sanlang, come sit down. Father is looking for you.” Qin Shubao asked him to sit down opposite.

“Father, why are you looking for me?” Qin Mubai asked knowingly. Obviously, his father wanted to talk to him about the marriage of his children.

“Today’s mansion is rarely lively.” Qin Shubao smiled and said, “Many guests have come. Apart from Cheng Zhijie, it seems that everyone else is your guest! It seems that you are really strong now and can support the Qin Clan.”

“Father is making fun of me.”

“Father, what are your plans for your marriage?” Qin Shubao asked.

“This …” Qin Mubai’s face turned ugly and she shook her head. “I have a few big things to do right now. I don’t have much time to think about my childhood.”

“Oh?” Qin Shubao couldn’t help but be slightly surprised, “Tell me, what’s the big deal?”

Qin Mubai told his father about his apprenticeship and job-hopping.

Hearing that, Qin Shubao knitted his brows and pondered for a long time. He nodded and said, “Not bad, these two major events are indeed worth doing.” I told you a long time ago that Li Jing is the number one figure in the Tang army. If you can take him as your master, there will be great benefits. It’s rare that the emperor gave you his grace this time and even asked you to go over to condolence Li Jing on his behalf, because he intentionally recommended it to you. However … after he returned from the last pacification of Tuyu Hun, Li Jing was accused of conspiracy. In the end, although the matter was thoroughly investigated and the culprit was punished, Li Jinggong, Gao Zhen Zhen Zhu, was always indisputable. Therefore, he resigned from the court and closed the door to welcome guests. Even relatives and friends were not allowed to enter the house. I’m afraid it’ll be difficult to take him as my master at this time! ”

Qin Mubai smiled and said, “That’s why I wanted to ask my father to come with me. I don’t need to look at the monk to see the Buddha’s face. I have both the recommendation of the Emperor and the face of an old friend like you. Is it embarrassing for President Li Jing to refuse again?”

“Oh?” Qin Shubao was slightly stunned, and then he laughed, “You bastard, you actually have your father in mind! I’ve been curled up in the manor for three to five years, and have never visited anyone. Forget it, for your sake, this old man will accompany you today to sell this old face at Li Jing’s manor. I’ll see how much more worth it!”

“Thank you, father!”

After a while, the father and son got ready and left for Li Jing’s mansion. Apart from the “Spirit Life Staff” given by the Emperor, the father and son only brought two bottles of home-brewed Qin Xianjiu as a small greeting gift.

Before leaving, Qin Mubai asked the servants to prepare the carriages and horses. Qin Shubao stopped and said, “We are both military officials and ordinary visitors. Let’s ride out on horseback!”

Qin Mubai was delighted. His father’s actions were rather interesting. Even if the Duke of the Nation did not show off, it was only natural for him to prepare a sedan chair or ride in a carriage. Furthermore, everyone knew that Qin Shubao had always been in poor health and had faded out of the Imperial Army for many years. This time, he took the initiative to ride a horse to visit Li Jing, and he also had the intention to announce to the outside world that his body had recovered.

In particular, it was even more interesting to visit Li Jing, the Great Tang Army God who had a leg disease.

The father and son went out without their attendants and rode towards Li Jing’s mansion.

The Duke Wei’s mansion arrived shortly after, and the gates were tightly closed. There was no room to welcome the guests at the entrance. Looks like Li Jing’s closing his door to the guests is true.

“Sanlang, step forward and call the door.”

When the father and son dismounted, Qin Mubai stepped forward to call the door. After patting for a long time, the door creaked open, and an old man poked out from inside. He sized Qin Mubai up and down, cupped his hands and saluted, “How do you address me, husband? What’s the point of coming to our mansion for?”

Qin Mubai cupped his hands and replied, “I am the emissary of the Hundred Cavalry, Qin Mubai. On the orders of His Majesty the Emperor, I am here to give the Emperor’s gift to Duke Wei.”

“Oh, General Qin is His Majesty’s envoy?” The old man hurriedly changed the color and turned to look at Qin Shubao. He blinked his somewhat turbid old eyes and muttered, “That one … looks so familiar!”

“Haha, Old Master Zhong, your memory isn’t too bad!” Qin Shubao laughed loudly and walked forward, “You still recognize me, Qin Qiong!”

“Ah?! … You are–Qin Shubao!” Old Master Zhong suddenly cried out. He looked up and down at Qin Shubao in surprise and said, “I haven’t seen you for many years, but your body is more than a hundred times better than before! Look at me, I’m so old that I can’t even recognize you!”

“Haha, I suppose you’re almost eighty, right?” Qin Shubao smiled and said, “Quickly let us father and son in. Is the Medicine Master in the manor?”

“Yes, yes.” “If it weren’t for Uncle Treasure’s visit, I wouldn’t have dared to let you in … Eh, Qin Shubao, Qin Mubai, are you two father and son?” Old Master Zhong’s expression was filled with joy as he said repeatedly, “If it weren’t for Uncle Treasure’s visit, I wouldn’t have dared to let you in.”

“Didn’t I just say that?” Qin Shubao smiled and said, “This is my son, Qin Liang. His name is Mubai and he is ranked third. He is now a Hundred Cavalry Envoy.”

“Ah, it’s really a tiger father without a dog!” Old Master Zhong looked up and down at Qin Mubai in surprise before pushing open the door to invite the two of them in.

As Qin Shubao walked, he asked, “Old Master Zhong, why is it so difficult to enter the Duke Wei’s mansion?”

“Master has given us such an order. We have no choice but to obey.” Old Master Zhong said, “This old man also said that if it weren’t for the arrival of the Imperial Court’s Imperial Envoy and the arrival of a rare guest like you, this old man wouldn’t have dared to let you in. Otherwise, I would have been scolded by this old master.”

“Haha, the old beard is still so stubborn.” Qin Shubao smiled.

“Everyone, please wait a moment. I will go forward to inform you first.”

The father and son stopped in a small pavilion at the corner of the main mansion and waited patiently. Qin Shubao said, “Sanlang, don’t exaggerate when you see Li Jing later. Li Jing is modest, cautious, calm and capable. He looks down on people who are frivolous, shallow and boastful.”

“This child has memorized it.”

After waiting for a while, Elder Zhong hurriedly walked out and bowed to the Qin father and son. “Forgive me, but I’m stupid. I actually asked the Imperial Court’s Imperial Envoy and Duke Yi to wait here!” Elder Zhong heard that Yushi and his old friend had come and were changing their clothes and preparing to go out to welcome them.

“There’s no need to be so troublesome.” Qin Shubao smiled and said, “Lead us forward. Medicine Master’s legs are inconvenient, so there’s no need for him to go out to welcome us.”

“This is absolutely impossible!” Elder Zhong hurriedly pointed at Qin Mubai and nervously said, “Although he is your son, he is the Imperial Court’s Imperial History!”

“Oh? Haha!” Qin Shubao laughed loudly, “I forgot that Medicine Master always respects etiquette. Forget it, we father and son will wait patiently here and tell Medicine Master that there is no need for him to be in a hurry.”

Old man Zhong bowed and returned. Qin Shubao smiled and said, “Mu Bai, Li Jing is such a cautious and meticulous person. Today, his contributions can be ranked first. Everyone says that he has done a great job. But in my opinion, no one knows more about honor and disgrace than him. He will definitely end up well in the future.”

Qin Mubai nodded in agreement, “Just this way of doing things, I have a lot to learn from him.”

“Well said.” Qin Shubao nodded in approval. “Remember, if he agrees to accept you, he will be a teacher for life. Treat him like a father.”

“Yes, father.”

A moment later, the door of the main hall of the former Fang Zheng Mansion opened wide to both sides. Inside, a person walked out. He was dressed in a formal purple robe. He was tall and tall, and even though he held a walking stick in his hand, he still looked majestic and awe-inspiring. Her beard was already silver and snow white, especially her beautiful beard that was as long as her abdominal umbilical cord. She danced with the wind and was quite handsome and unrestrained.

“This lowly official Li Jing greets Yushi respectfully!” Li Jing gave up his cane and bowed.

“Duke Wei, hurry up and waive your etiquette.” Qin Mubai hurriedly stepped forward and handed over the box containing the Spirit Staff with both of his hands. He said, “I, Baiji Qin Mubai, am only here on His Majesty’s order to present this Emperor-bestowed cane. This cane is called the Spirit Staff. It was specially made for Duke Wei by an expert craftsman invited by His Majesty.”

Li Jing still did not raise his head. He raised both his hands to receive the box and said in a loud voice, “Your Majesty owes me a great debt of gratitude, and I will never be able to repay you. Long live my emperor! Long live my emperor!” “Long live my emperor! Long live my emperor! Long live my emperor!”

Qin Mubai could only accompany him to the end of the show and said, “Your Majesty has granted Duke Wei no courtesy. Duke Wei, please take your cane. There is no need for such courtesy.”

“Thank you, my Emperor!” Li Jing solemnly handed the box to the servant and took the cane. Then, he looked at Qin Mubai with rapt attention. In the blink of an eye, he shifted his gaze to Qin Mubai’s back. A look of joy appeared on his face as he raised his finger and shouted, “Uncle Treasure? You are Uncle Treasure!”

“Haha, my big brother, do you still remember little brother?” Qin Shubao also laughed loudly as he stepped forward, his hands clasped together with his, “That’s right, it’s Qin Qiong!”

“Haha! I only met you in a hurry at the celebration banquet last time. It’s been so many years since we’ve talked like this!” Li Jing was obviously extremely happy as well. He laughed loudly while looking at Qin Shubao up and down. He immediately revealed a look of surprise and doubt, “Eh, where is your walking stick?”

Qin Shubao laughed loudly, “Little brother is currently eating ten kilograms of rice a day. He can fight ferocious tigers and chop Yi Qianjun. What’s the use of that cane?”

“Oh, Shu Bao’s illness … has recovered?” Li Jing said in surprise.

“Indeed.” Qin Shubao chuckled, “Big Brother, you have been suffering from leg diseases for many years. Why didn’t you treat them carefully? We are the same, and we fell into the war. Fortunately, I was able to cure these diseases. Now, I am waiting for His Majesty’s summons, ready to help the country gallop through the battlefield at all times!”

“Good, good, very good.” Li Jing nodded and smiled in relief. Then, he turned to look at Qin Mubai and laughed, “Hundred Cavalry Messenger Qin Mubai is famous for a long time. Uncle Bao, this is your third young master, right?”

“It’s my son.” Qin Shubao smiled and said, “Sanlang, why don’t you come and pay your respects to your Uncle Li?”