Volume One, Chapter 18: The Englishman Sends a Noble Lady?

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He had regarded his prized possession as a means to assert dominance over the Tang Dynasty. Yet, the Crown Prince of Tang methodically exposed each flaw, publicly belittling it as mere trifling skill. Such humiliation was akin to trampling upon England’s pride beneath his feet. Still, as an envoy, he had to maintain his dignity. Folding his hands before him, he forced a stiff smile and bowed slightly to Emperor Taizong. “The Tang Empire truly embodies wisdom and greatness. The Crown Prince is indeed extraordinary, and his reputation is well-deserved.”

Mahmoud cast a complicated glance at Li Chengqian, a flicker of cold light flashing in his eyes before quickly being concealed. Li Chengqian, however, returned the gesture calmly, his tone measured. “You flatter me, envoy. Our Tang treats guests with courtesy and fulfills the duties of a gracious host. Accommodations have been arranged for you and your party; should you require anything further, please mention it to the Ministry of Rites officials, and you will receive no neglect.”

Mahmoud bit his lip, nodding in thanks. “The Crown Prince is truly considerate. We are grateful for the Tang hospitality.” With a wave of his hand, he signaled his attendants to collect the gifts and withdrew to rest.

After Mahmoud’s departure, the Hall of State Affairs fell into silence. The ministers’ gazes remained fixed on Li Chengqian, their expressions a mixture of astonishment, admiration, and complexity. This once-reckless, indulgent Crown Prince had managed singlehandedly to shine in this contest of Tang’s prestige. Not only was his translation fluent and demeanor graceful, but he dismantled England’s provocations one by one, securing a resounding victory for Tang.

The first to break the silence was the Minister of Rites. Slowly stepping forward, he bowed to Emperor Taizong, his voice tinged with excitement. “Your Majesty, the Crown Prince’s intellect and eloquence are exceptional, truly befitting the heir of the Celestial Empire! Without His Highness’s keen insight and masterful debate, England’s arrogance today would have been difficult to quell.”

Following his words, other ministers rose in agreement: “The Crown Prince’s learning is far-reaching—a pillar of our Tang!” “His Highness’s demeanor is extraordinary, his scholarship profound, a model for the heir apparent!” “Today’s events have shown the envoys from afar the grandeur of Tang’s court, thanks entirely to the Crown Prince!”

The ministers’ praise surged like a tide, as if overnight, Li Chengqian had transformed from a profligate playboy into the backbone of the Tang administration. Emperor Taizong’s heart swirled with complex emotions.

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When had this son, who had once caused him such profound disappointment, grown such depth of talent and courage? Was his former recklessness merely a disguise to conceal his brilliance? Or was this truly a change within him?

A trace of shock mingled with caution stirred in the emperor’s heart: “Have I... misjudged him?”

Standing nearby, Li Tai ground his teeth so hard his nails bit into his palms, faintly drawing blood. He had anticipated this state banquet would be the Crown Prince’s downfall, yet Li Chengqian not only defused the crisis but reversed it, regaining the court’s trust. His anger blazed within, but he forced it down, wearing a forced smile as he stepped forward to address Emperor Taizong and the ministers.

“Your Majesty, you truly hide your talents well and command respect! Today’s matter has restored Tang’s honor, and Your Majesty’s brother’s contribution cannot be overlooked.”

Li Chengqian’s eyes flickered but he offered no rebuttal, only a faint smile and a nod toward Li Tai.

Li Yuanchang remained silent, his gaze coldly fixed on Li Chengqian. “Though he performed well today, his prominence has become excessive. This will surely draw more scrutiny and probing. Should he slip, it will be his downfall.” He lowered his head, a cold smile curling his lips as he pondered silently.

After the banquet, Emperor Taizong returned to the Imperial Study. Wang De stood at attention, knowing it was not the moment to speak. After a long pause, the emperor finally broke the silence.

“Wang De, what is your opinion of the Crown Prince’s performance today?”

Wang De bowed his head and replied immediately, “Your Majesty, the Crown Prince’s talent today was truly eye-opening. Whether translating the English envoy’s words or calmly dismantling their provocations, he exhibited remarkable composure and ease. Such talent and courage were unexpected.”

Emperor Taizong’s eyes flickered with a meaningful smile as he murmured softly, “Has he truly changed?”

Then his gaze hardened. “I am well aware of his past recklessness. If he has genuinely reformed, I have my considerations. But if this is merely a temporary facade, I will not tolerate it lightly.”

Wang De bowed his head. “Your Majesty is wise.”

“The heir apparent’s position cannot be decided lightly. This court is far from calm.”

Night deepened, the Eastern Palace ablaze with light. Li Chengqian returned from the banquet at the Hall of State Affairs and had just stepped into the main hall when Su Chan’er approached.

“Husband, I have heard about the events at the banquet,” she said cautiously.

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Su Chan’er’s voice was tinged with careful concern. “Your performance today was extraordinary; everyone’s respect for you has deepened.”

Li Chengqian removed his outer robe and casually hung it on a nearby rack, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Is that so? Those ministers who were watching me like a hawk earlier—now, after a single banquet, they’ve started to change their tune.”

Su Chan’er paused, unsure how to respond. She looked at him with worry and tentatively asked, “Husband, have you truly shaken off the pressure from court?”

“Chan’er, this is only the first step. Li Tai and Li Yuanchang have yet to reveal their final moves. Besides, that English envoy Mahmoud is no simple man.”

“Husband, you mean...” Su Chan’er’s brow furrowed with concern.

Li Chengqian lifted his gaze, a sharp glint in his eyes. The English envoy’s arrogance and provocations were but a disguise. They came with a purpose—those so-called gifts were merely probes testing Tang’s strength. Though he had thwarted them this time, with their nature, they would not give up easily.

Just as the couple shared a moment of warmth, a hurried attendant entered the hall and whispered a report.

“Your Highness, the English envoy Mahmoud has suddenly requested an audience, claiming urgent matters to discuss.”

Li Chengqian’s eyes flickered, then a faint smile curved his lips. “That was quick.”

He rose, his gaze cooling. “Chan’er, you return to the inner chambers. I want to see exactly what Mahmoud is up to.”

Moments later, in the main hall of the Eastern Palace, Mahmoud stood in his exotic robes, respectful in demeanor. Behind him, attendants carried several exquisite gift boxes. A faint smile adorned his face as he bowed slightly to Li Chengqian.

He apologized for his behavior at the banquet and brought some English specialties as a token of apology.

With a wave of his hand, the attendants unveiled the gifts one by one. Among the foreign crafts was a final gift—a beautiful woman. She possessed delicate features, fair skin, and wore exotic garments. There was a captivating allure in her eyes.

“This lady is the daughter of an English noble family, skilled in music, dance, and song.”