Chapter 20 Chapter Twenty

As the Spring Festival approaches, the joy of the New Year is overflowing on everyone's face.This year, Li Shimin announced the resumption of the original Spring Festival holiday.When the news came out from Beijing, the people with official status immediately rejoiced.The common people have food at home and don’t worry about food and clothing. When winter is the slack time for farming, they are busy with New Year’s goods from the twelfth lunar month. Some people gather together to roast fire and fight cards. This kind of leisure further sets off the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival.

People feel happy when their pockets are bloated.Most people think that they can have a good year, and try to add more utensils when the new year is over.Those officials who have a little knowledge of poetry and books have more complicated thoughts in their hearts. Although they are delighted to see the generous salary, they also have a lot of feeling when they look back on the country's deeds in the past few years.Some officials pondered silently, thinking that the emperor should be persuaded to hold a Zen ceremony after the year. Li Shimin stabilized the country and ruled the world, and a peaceful and prosperous age appeared.Some officials thought to themselves that it would be a pity if the emperor did not enshrine Zen to repay his achievements, so Shangshu asked the emperor to hold a ceremony of enshrining Zen next year.

When Li Shimin first saw these Shangshu, he didn't take it seriously and put it aside.Unexpectedly, as soon as this topic was brought up, it gradually became a prairie fire. Even Gao Shilian, who was far away in Anzhou, went to the shuffle one after another, urging the holding of the conferring ceremony.On this day, Li Shimin handed Gao Shilian's Shangshu to Changsun Wuji, and said: "For some reason, Uncle Ru went to Shangshu one after another, and insisted on holding the Zen ceremony." The eldest grandson Wuji unfolded Gao Shilian's Shangshu and watched intently, and then replied: "Now the world is prosperous, the people are rich, and there is a scene of joy everywhere. Because of this, my uncle went to the Shangshu, which is regarded as following the general trend. Besides, he is a relative of the emperor, and he is also the assistant of the emperor. His Majesty ascended the throne, seeing the prosperity of the world, if His Majesty can perform the ceremony of enshrining Zen, it will surely shake the universe. He wants to get some glory because of this, and he has this feeling."

"What do you think?" At that time, there were only Li Shimin and Changsun Wuji in the pavilion.As close relatives, they speak more casually than in formal occasions. "After so many years of domestic recuperation, the world has finally achieved great rule. During this period, the monarchs and ministers devoted all their efforts to appease the people and calm them down. Like His Majesty, restraining his own desires, such as repairing palaces and holding large-scale ceremonies, basically disappeared. People do not come here for pleasure, but the treasury It is too much to still live like an ascetic monk when it is full. Looking at the current scenery and holding some celebrations appropriately, it is not only in line with public opinion, but also inspires the spirit of the world through celebrations, which is actually right.”

"According to what you said, can the Fengchan ceremony be held?" "That's right. Nowadays, the people are prosperous, people live and work in peace and contentment, and the Eastern Turks have not long been conquered, and the Siyi are overwhelmed. It's time to hold the ceremony of enshrining Zen." Li Shimin stood up, walked slowly in the pavilion, then heaved a long sigh, and said: "These days, the ministers have been praising the great order of the world, it seems that there is a scene of singing and dancing outside, I am really happy when I hear it, Because this is indeed the case. However, Wei Zheng and others told me to be prepared for danger in times of peace, and it makes sense when I think about it. This reminds me of the scene of returning to Beijing after winning the victory in Luoyang. ’, this sentence is still very reasonable.”

Changsun Wuji disagreed with Li Shimin's point of view, and said: "The world has changed, and today's situation is very different from when Luoyang was a class teacher. How can it be the same?" "Wei Zheng and the others are right. A monarch must always have a heart of fear and not be overjoyed. Wuji, it seems that it is best to let this matter go." Li Shimin said this to Changsun Wuji in private, but when he arrived at the court, he said something else to the officials: "Recently, there have been a lot of officials who have neglected them, so let me perform the ceremony of enshrining Zen. I think, enshrining Zen It is indeed a great event for the emperor. However, the world is stable, the people live and work in peace and contentment, and have more than enough food and clothing, so what does it matter if the Zen ceremony is not held? Qin Shihuang used to confer Zen, but Han Wendi did not confer Zen. Will later generations think that Han Wendi is not as good as Qin Shihuang? And to worship heaven and earth, do you have to be on the top of Mount Tai to show your sincerity?"

Since Li Shimin expressed his intention not to hold the Zen Conferring Ceremony, the officials should not continue this topic.However, some courtiers and foreign officials seemed to be instigated by someone, and they still frequently requested to hold the Zen ceremony, and their enthusiasm remained undiminished. Wen Yanbo belongs to those who favor Fengchan.On this day, he took advantage of the gap between Li Shimin summoning him and Xiao Yu, and said: "The emperor said that day that he did not want to hold the Zen Conferring Ceremony. These people’s earnest words are not because they are very happy, but because the country is rich and the people are happy, and they represent part of the public opinion.”

"Public opinion? You need to know how much food and food will be spent to hold the Fengchan Grand Ceremony! I have said before that the officials want to spend extravagantly and save money, how can we go against it?" "Your Majesty, rites and music have existed since ancient times, and their role is to educate. Enshrining Zen is a great gift, and of course it costs money during the ceremony, but compared with the great gift, it is really a tip. By performing this great gift, the country's prosperity and established national policies will be dispersed. How much enlightenment it can play if it enters the hearts of the people! Moreover, holding a big ceremony is based on public opinion, and if it is done according to the trend, it will be of great merit."

Li Shimin said with a smile: "In order to persuade me to perform the great ceremony of conferring Zen, Wen Qing gave such a high-sounding reason. If I disobey it, it will be against the will of the people." Xiao Yu was also in favor of holding the Zen Conferring Ceremony, and he interjected: "Your Majesty, people's words have a voice, and it depends on the heart. During this period of time, there have been endless calls from inside and outside the court to perform the Zen Conferring Ceremony, which actually reflects the true thoughts of some people. Since Sui Yang At the end of the great cause of the emperor, the world was in turmoil, the people were in dire straits, and people yearned for stability. The Taishang Emperor and the emperor made the first uprising in Taiyuan, accomplished the foundation of the Tang Dynasty, and wiped out the east and west, and finally ruled the world. Your Majesty has comforted the people over the years and realized the great rule of the world. The country Wealthy, the people have more than enough food and clothing. The veteran has gone through these processes, and seeing the scene in front of him, he is really happy! Thinking of the officials and people in the country, there must be many people who have such a good mood as the veteran. Joyful and joyful, ecstatic and ecstatic, Human nature too. At this time, it is indeed necessary to hold the Fengchan Grand Ceremony to boost morale, and it is in line with everyone's wishes."

Xiao Yu's words made Li Shimin's words come alive, and he still said in his mouth: "Mr. Xiao also wants to persuade me. It seems that if I don't give the Zen ceremony, it will be against the wishes of everyone." But he was thinking in his heart, I went back to the old house in Wugong County a few days ago, and I felt a little bit of returning home, so I was excited for several days.If the Fengchan Grand Ceremony is held, it is actually similar to returning home, and it should be a very pleasant thing. Ordinary people's beliefs are not rock-solid, especially when they are in line with their own wishes and are good for their reputation, they are very easy to change their original intentions.Li Shimin disapproved of performing the Zen Grand Ceremony at the beginning, because he put the country first, and Wei Zheng and others have repeatedly admonished him over the years.When all the ministers went to the evacuation, Li Shimin's heart gradually changed. He thought that since it was the intention of the ministers, holding the Zen Conferring Ceremony can educate the world, shake the world, and publicize his merits. Isn't it a beautiful thing?

Li Shimin didn't say anything to Xiao Yu and Wen Yanbo at this time, but turned to other topics.After the two withdrew, it happened that the eldest grandson Wuji entered the palace to ask for an audience, and Li Shimin discussed this topic with him. "Wuji, do you think it's appropriate to hold the Fengchan Grand Ceremony?" "Of course it is appropriate. Ordinary people have something to celebrate, let alone the country! Your Majesty, how many happy moments do you have in your life? Since we captured Chang'an, we have been fighting east and west. We are busy now. The barbarians are in uniform, and the country is stable. It is a rare good day! If you don’t take advantage of the occasion to celebrate, it’s tantamount to walking in brocade clothes at night!” Li Shimin nodded and said: "I didn't want to hold this grand ceremony at first, because I wanted to be prepared for danger in times of peace and make people feel fearful. These days, the voices of ministers asking for salutes have been heard endlessly. The so-called enthusiasm of the crowd is also true. I thought again , if I insist on not being polite, I will disobey the good intentions of everyone, how much money can a ceremony cost, why not take advantage of the trend?" "Yes, the necessary expenses can't be saved. For example, a bucket of rice is only worth four dollars nowadays, and the granaries at all levels are overcrowded. If you don't spend some money, will the grain be fed to rats? Your Majesty, don't hesitate any longer. Going to Taishan to enshrine Zen is done in spring, if we don't start preparations now, the time will be too hasty." Li Shimin pondered for a while, and finally made up his mind, and said: "Okay, let's do it like this. Wuji, after you leave the palace for a while, you can find Li Chunfeng and Yuan Tiangang to discuss the specific date. This time, you will organize the ceremony Take it up." Soon, the news spread that Li Shimin agreed to hold the Fengchan Grand Ceremony.On that day, Changsun Wuji found Li Chunfeng and Yuan Tiangang, and the day of enshrining Zen was initially set on February 20 next year.Since Changsun Wuji is in charge of this ceremony, he will naturally discuss the details with the Ministry of Rites, Taichang Temple and other government offices.When the officials heard that the ceremony of enshrining Zen was really going to be held, their spirits could not help but be lifted, and the joy in their hearts can be imagined. At this time, Wei Zheng's unusual character will be revealed.When he learned that Li Shimin wanted to hold the ceremony of enshrining Zen, he thought of Li Shimin's original attitude and couldn't understand why his attitude changed so quickly.On this day, he remonstrated with Li Shimin in court again. "Your Majesty, I know that His Majesty has given up on the proposal of enshrining Zen. However, these days, I have seen the Ministry of Rites, Taichang Temple and other government offices, and said that it is according to His Majesty's order that they have started to be busy with conferring Zen. I wonder if it is true?" "That's right, it's true. I really didn't want to salute at the beginning, but the ministers begged endlessly, and wanted to perform this grand ceremony to have an enlightening effect, so I approved the request of the ministers." "Ran Chen never made a request." "Wei Qing, with so many officials in the court, how can every opinion be unified? The reason why I accepted the opinions of everyone this time is that most of them hold this opinion. Wen Qing, is that so?" Wen Yanbo came out of the class and replied: "That's right. This time, there are 353 Beijing officials and 476 foreign officials who asked for Zen enshrinement. Wei Jian, the emperor is right. If it is in line with public opinion, don't stop it. If you don't believe it, you can ask the courtiers of Lie Ban for their opinions." Wei Zheng shook his head and said, "How can justice be judged by the number of people? Your majesty, I still remember what your majesty said here a few days ago. The world is stable and the people live and work in peace. Does it have to be demonstrated by enshrining Zen?" Wei Zheng used Li Shimin's original words to oppose Feng Chan's move in court, which made Li Shimin feel a little uneasy, and he felt a little dissatisfied with Wei Zheng in his heart, thinking that many things that will come naturally are all because of Wei Zheng's outrageous criticism.But they have confronted countless times over the years, and in the end most of them were Wei Zheng's opinion, which dampened Li Shimin's spirit a lot.Although he was dissatisfied in his heart now, he didn't dare to express it on his face, so he asked lightly: "Wei Qing, I have decided this matter, and I have thought about it many times beforehand, and I always feel that there is nothing wrong with saluting. Let me ask you, You don't let me go to perform the great ceremony of enshrining Zen, do you think that my merit is not high?" "Your Majesty's literary and martial arts are outstanding. He not only establishes the world, but also promotes great governance. His great achievements are seen by all the people in the world." "Isn't my morality thick?" "Your Majesty governs the world with enlightenment, makes his subjects obey His Majesty's virtues, and the people appreciate His Majesty's kindness. He is indeed a virtuous monarch." "Is it because the country is not stable?" "Your Majesty stabilizes the world and calms the people. The appearance of the prosperous age in front of you has never been seen since the Qin and Han Dynasties." "Could it be that the four barbarians have not accepted?" "Your Majesty regards Huayi as a family and does not bully others with strength. The previous attack on the Eastern Turks was really an act of self-protection, and it can even demonstrate the power of virtue. In this way, the four barbarians came to the court one after another, and His Majesty Jing'an four The actions of the barbarians have never happened in the past and present." "Then, it means that the harvest is not abundant?" "Your Majesty regards farming as the foundation, and within a few years, the vitality of farming and mulberry has been quickly restored. Every year, it is ripe, and now each bucket of rice is only worth four dollars. The official treasury is full, which can be said to be a strong country." "Then the image of heaven and earth is not auspicious?" Wei Zheng answered here, thought for a while, and then replied: "There are a lot of signs of auspiciousness in the reports from various places. Between heaven and earth, auspicious things abound. There are things that exaggerate auspiciousness. In fact, the world is stable and the people are prosperous, which is the greatest auspiciousness. For many years, Your Majesty has only paid attention to the facts and results, not the appearance of auspiciousness. I don’t know why he still pays attention to this matter today?” This sentence made Li Shimin speechless, he paused and said: "Okay, let's not talk about auspiciousness. Like Wei Qing's answer just now, it is also a sentence that proves that you can do the Zen ceremony! So, why do you still have to work hard?" What about bitter opposition to Feng Chan?" "Although Your Majesty possesses the beauty of the six items mentioned above, after the chaos at the end of the Sui Dynasty, the household registration has not been restored to the number in the reign of Emperor Wen of the Sui Dynasty. Although the treasury is full, it has not reached the number in the early years of Emperor Yang of the Sui Dynasty. From this point of view, although we have the appearance of a prosperous age, the household registration and food supply have not surpassed those of the Sui Dynasty, so further efforts are needed, and it is not time to celebrate." Xiao Yu came out of the shift and said: "What Wei Jian said is actually contradictory. You just said clearly that the current prosperous age is unprecedented since the Qin and Han Dynasties. Why is it that it is not as good as the Sui Dynasty?" "Xiao Gong, there is a little difference here. Since the early years of Zhenguan, such achievements have been achieved, which is impressive. If this momentum continues, it will surely surpass all eras since the Qin and Han Dynasties. It is just six or seven years, and the time is too short to be achieved overnight. It is also an indisputable fact that household registration and grain storage did not reach the highest level in the Sui Dynasty. The two are actually not contradictory." Li Shimin signaled Xiao Yu to go back, and said, "Wei Qing, finish your sentence." "If the ceremony of enshrining Zen is about to take place, Your Majesty will lead a chariot to tour the east, and he will ride thousands of horses, and provide labor expenses along the way. It is too huge. If you want to make a big ceremony, you must pursue grandeur, and you must pay attention to every festival and every ceremony. I read the book last night and read the process of Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty enshrining Zen, and I have a deeper understanding. "Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty sent people to build an altar on Mount Tai early in order to enshrine Zen. Thinking about how high the top of Mount Tai is, in order to build the altar, a ramp must be built first, and then bricks and ashes must be carried up one by one. It is extremely huge. On the 28th day of the first lunar month, Emperor Guangwu of the Han Dynasty set off from Luoyang, with tens of thousands of entourages, and thousands of people repaired the road in front of him. It was not until February 12th that he arrived at the foot of Mount Tai. This cost , How much food does it cost from the national treasury. Your Majesty, I have heard some people say that although some money is used in the ceremony of enshrining Zen, it is a tip after all compared with performing etiquette and enlightenment. I really do not agree with this point of view. I think Han Guang Taking the number of people and utensils used by Emperor Wu as an example, he roughly calculated an account. For one trip like this, the money and food consumed need 30% of the annual tribute. Is this a tip? Your Majesty has been extravagant and economical these years, not building palaces, and saving money in various ways. The move has already been deeply rooted in the hearts of the people, and if this grand ceremony is held, it will definitely set the scene for extravagance in the future. From this point of view, this is not a tip!" Li Shimin didn't expect Wei Zheng to calculate the amount of food and money spent, and talked about the subsequent harm from a deep level.Beforehand, he knew that saluting would definitely cost money, but he didn't think it would cost so much. Wei Zheng went on to say: "If your Majesty wants to perform the Zen ceremony, he will definitely invite the king of the country to come here to watch the ceremony. After these people enter the country, they have to be treated graciously, which is another expense. The expense is small, and there is still a hidden worry for the minister. Think about the emperor. Inviting these kings over, I really want them to see the prosperity of our country, so that they will be admired. However, I heard from Ma Zhou that the way out of Luoyang to the east to the sea is very desolate and there are few fireworks. Introducing it into the belly and letting them see this kind of weakness is contrary to His Majesty's original intention." Li Shimin was shocked, he didn't think of this beforehand. Wei Zheng finally said: "Your Majesty has restored the world all these years, and the people have just recovered. If you perform the Zen ceremony now, it will be a false name and cause harm to the people. I think that Your Majesty will definitely not do this." Li Shimin thought to himself, this dead old man Wei Zheng has also learned to use his mind.You talked there for a long time, and finally praised me again, it seems that the only way is to accept his opinion.But thinking about it carefully, what Wei Zheng said is really reasonable, obviously superior to others. After Wei Zheng finished speaking, there was a moment of silence in the scene.All the people present were chewing on Wei Zheng's words, and some of them who originally supported Feng Chan began to have conflicts in their hearts. In the end, they still thought Wei Zheng's words were reasonable, and unconsciously changed their attitudes.More people looked at Li Shimin to see how he made up his mind. Li Shimin pondered for a moment, and then said: "Wei Qing's remarks are obviously made after careful consideration. Although your opinion is a very small number among the officials, it cannot be said that it is unreasonable. You all have your own reasons. , it makes it a little difficult for me. How about this, let Wuji continue to prepare, and everyone take advantage of the time of the New Year to think about this topic. We will make a decision at the court meeting next year. Alright, Wei Qing, You go back. My lords, what else do you want to play?" In this way, the topic of Feng Chan was put on hold for the time being. Anyway, Wei Zheng's words poured cold water on Li Shimin, who was full of enthusiasm, and his interest was greatly reduced.A few days later, he received news of snow disasters in Henan, Hebei and other places, and immediately summoned relevant people to arrange disaster relief.After everyone left, he stared out of the window in a daze for a long time, and then asked his eldest grandson Wuji to be summoned, and said, "Wuji, stop the matter of enshrining Chan. What Wei Zheng said makes sense, and now is not the time to celebrate." Since then, people have gradually forgotten a lot about Feng Chan.As the festival approaches, people are immersed in the atmosphere of the Spring Festival one after another, forgetting about the Fengchan ceremony. Chinese people attach great importance to the custom of the Spring Festival, which had been fully formed by the Tang Dynasty.As the Spring Festival approaches, every family has to buy new year goods according to their own financial resources. This year, the world is ripe and the people are rich.The east and west cities in Chang'an are extremely crowded every day before the festival, and people carry back baskets of new year's goods, much to the delight of many merchants. On New Year's Eve, as usual, there will be a Nuo opera to drive away the plague ghosts. This is the most lively celebration ceremony with the most participants.In the past few years, due to the good years, the government has gradually accumulated. Chang'an, Luoyang, and East and West are the first to be funded by the government to organize Nuo opera for the public to watch.Since then, all states and counties have learned about it and followed suit. At that time, exorcists from all states and counties had already lived outside the official gate yesterday, and they only came out from the four city gates after nightfall. Tonight, Li Shimin will host a banquet for officials of rank three or higher in Danxiao Hall.After the banquet, they were allowed to watch Nuo opera in the palace. Three minutes after applying for the card, the officials who came to the banquet entered Chengtian Gate and lined up to Danxiao Hall.Among them, there are more than a dozen Turkic people headed by Xieli.Feng Zhidai, governor of Guisizhou, happened to be in Beijing, and was specially invited to the banquet by Li Shimin. The Danxiao Hall is located on the left side of the Liangyi Hall. The hall is backed by the sea pool, and there is a huge open field in front of the gate, with a very beautiful scenery.Li Shimin often chooses to hold banquets in this hall when he entertains his ministers recently.In front of the Palace of Night, rows of red lanterns were hung up early in the palace. As the night gradually rose, the brilliance of the lanterns illuminated the roads in the palace, showing a festive look. In the Danxiao Hall, there is a circle of sandalwood humanoid statues around it, with their hands stretched out to hold candles, which are actually used as candlesticks.These candles are scented candles produced by Jiaozhi. The smoke is lingering with a strange fragrance, and the light illuminates the hall like daytime. At the northernmost end of the hall, there are two cases side by side, which is where Li Yuan and Li Shimin sit.Below it, there are rows and rows of cases, which are naturally where hundreds of officials sit.The case is already filled with all kinds of rare delicacies, fresh fruits and vegetables, and there are palace ladies holding wine jugs standing on both sides of the hall.Behind the screen on the right back side of the hall, a group of musicians hold instruments and are always ready to play. After the officials entered the hall, they sat down in their respective positions under the guidance of the eunuch, and waited quietly for the arrival of Li Yuan and Li Shimin. At the time of the unitary card, there was only a loud shout in the hall: "the emperor, the emperor, is here, and all the officials will meet you." All the ministers stood up in unison, took a step forward, then knelt down, and shouted in unison: "Long live my emperor, long live, long live!" Li Yuan first sat in front of the case on the left, smiling all over his face, waving his hands and saying, "My loves, please be at peace." Li Shimin also sat down. The officials said in unison: "Thank you, Your Majesty, thank you Your Majesty." Then they all returned to their positions. Li Yuan smiled and said: "All the ministers assist Erlang..." At this point, he suddenly paused, perhaps remembering that Li Jiancheng and Li Yuanji are no longer alive, and seeing everyone staring at him, he returned to his normal state and continued: "...I'm busy. For a year, the world has been governed in an orderly manner. I am alone in the palace, and I am happy every day. Tonight is New Year's Eve, and Erlang asked Gu to come and have a feast with the ministers. Well, let's celebrate today." As soon as Li Yuan stopped speaking, all the officials turned their eyes to Li Shimin.Li Shimin picked up the wine cup and said with a smile on his face: "Since the Supreme Emperor made everyone happy, come, let's drink up this cup first." After that, everyone started to drink and eat food.Because the Supreme Emperor and the Emperor were sitting on it, the officials were not as casual as in ordinary banquets, and they did not dare to yell, and the scene was still dull. Li Yuan obviously felt this.He glanced at Li Shimin, bowed his head and said, "It's a pity that Su Shichang is gone. If he was present, the scene would be more lively." Li Shimin heard this and said, "Father, Su Shichang passed away, so Ouyang Xun is still here." One sentence reminded Li Yuan.Facing the crowd, he called out: "Where is Ouyang Qing? Tonight is a time of joy, and you have a lot of jokes in your stomach, so let's make a few paragraphs and let everyone have a good time." Ouyang Xun got up and said: "The Supreme Emperor has an order, so I will make fun for everyone. It is said that Lu Sidao was hired by Chen Guo in the Northern Qi Dynasty. That day, the Lord Chen hosted a banquet for all the officials, and only Lu Sidao was from the north. The Lord Chen ordered the officials to write a poem together. For fun, one of them sang first: "The elm grows to fill the man, and the grass grows to make the donkey fat." It turns out that people in the north often eat elm leaves, and there are no donkeys in Wudi, so they satirize Lu Sidao who came here to take office. As soon as this sentence came out , everyone shot their eyes at Lu Sidao to see how he would respond." "What happened next?" Li Yuan asked. "Na Lu Sidao didn't rush, and casually recited two sentences: 'The rice is shared, and the fish is cooked in the same pan', which coincides with the previous two sentences. This sentence is used to ridicule the southerners for being ruthless, stingy, and making fun of it." The people in the seat are extremely embarrassed." Most of the ministers in the audience were from the north, and they felt very enjoyable after hearing this, and burst out laughing. Li Yuan nodded and said: "Yes, it can be said that tit for tat, the language is clever. Is Ouyang Qing still there?" At this time, Changsun Wuji stood up, cupped his hands and said, "The Supreme Emperor, I have a poem here, which describes Mr. Ouyang." Li Yuan signaled him to speak quickly.All the ministers knew that although Ouyang Xun had a good handwriting, but he looked like an old monkey, Changsun Wuji must not be a good word. Changsun Wuji slowly recited: "Shrug your arms into a mountain character, bury your shoulders and keep your head down. On the Lin Pavilion of someone's house, this macaque is painted?" This poem mocks Ouyang Xun for being born like a macaque.As soon as Changsun Wuji finished speaking, the whole hall roared with laughter.After the laughter subsided, Li Yuan smiled and pointed at his eldest grandson Wuji and said, "Wuji, your words are too harsh, aren't you afraid that Ouyang Xun will pay you back?" Sure enough, Ouyang Xun immediately said: "Well, I also heard a poem recently, but it described Zhao Guogong." He interjected and said, "Hiding your head to keep your back warm, and your crotch to be afraid of the cold in your stomach. I just feel confused, so Dough." It turns out that Changsun Wuji has gained a lot of weight over the years, and his complexion is fair. When outsiders see him, the first thing they think is the word "fat".Ouyang Xun exaggerated his body features and ridiculed him as a turtle.There was another roar of laughter in the hall. But Li Shimin changed his color there, and when the laughter stopped, he shouted in a deep voice: "Ouyang Xun, aren't you afraid that the queen will hear you when you say this?" The eldest grandson Jiamin is the younger sister of the eldest grandson Wuji, Ouyang Xun scolded the eldest grandson Wuji as a turtle, and even scolded the eldest grandson Jiamin, and thinking about it later, what did Li Shimin become. Ouyang Xun didn't think much of it when he was teasing, he blurted out because he was provoked by his eldest grandson Wuji, he didn't expect that the empress would be involved.Finally, this man was very witty, and hastily bowed to defend himself: "Your Majesty misunderstood what I mean. I said this poem to say that Zhao Guogong was born with a graceful manner and a great blessing." Although Ouyang Xun's words were far-fetched, it was finally settled at that time.Li Shimin was afraid of spoiling everyone's interest, so he didn't want to delve into it, so he smiled and relieved. Li Yuan saw Jieli and Feng Zhidai again at this time, and called out: "General Jieli, I heard that you dance sword very well, please try dancing to this music." Jieli has lived in the capital these years, and has been depressed.When Li Shimin learned of his situation, he thought that he was not used to life in the capital, and remembered that there were many elk in Guozhou, where they could go hunting.Unexpectedly, Jieli didn't know what to think, and he didn't want to go to Guozhou to take up a job, so he still lived in Jingzhong.He couldn't turn his mood around, facing his family in the house, he often cried for no reason, and his appearance became thinner and thinner day by day.Today he came to Danxiao Palace to have a banquet, and he was serious. When he saw Ouyang Xun making jokes there, his mood gradually improved and a smile appeared on his face. When Jieli heard Li Yuan calling his name, he hurriedly got up and bowed.After hearing that Li Yuan asked him to dance the sword, it was very satisfying, and he thought that dancing the sword here would be very enjoyable, so he replied: "I obey the order. It's just that performing this music now does not suit the sword's intention, so I beg to perform another song." " Li Shimin said: "It's okay, we can change to "Dance of Seven Virtues"." Li Yuan called Feng Zhidai again and said, "Feng Cishi, if General Jieli plays the sword, you can compose a new poem at this time. Dance and stop poetry, can it be done?" Feng Zhidai stood up and bowed: "I obey the order. Please give me the title first." "Since playing sword, let's use sword as the subject." Li Yuan replied casually. Jieli held a long sword and stood in the open space on the left side of the hall. The musicians there stopped playing "Qing Shan Le" according to the order, and played "Seven Virtues Dance" with a sonorous rhythm. Jieli's sword danced really well, and the tip of the sword opened and closed to the sound of the music, which was very majestic.I saw the sharp sword shooting into the air like an arrow, flying like a dragon, moving like a thunder, and still like a condensed light.The dance was so exciting that the hall was full of cheers. Li Shimin watched Jieli's sword dance with fascination, and felt that its dance had the rough wind of the grassland, and it was very practical between stretching and closing, unlike the dance of Middle Earth that had so many ostentations.He looked at it for a while, then turned his head to Li Yuan and said, "Father, after this Jieli entered the capital, I am afraid that today is the happiest day." Li Yuan was engrossed in watching, and didn't pay much attention to Li Shimin's words. During the break, he yelled in harmony with everyone's voices: "Hello, ok." After the performance of the song "Dance of Seven Virtues", Jieli stood up with his sword in his arms.I saw that he was sweating profusely all over his body, which showed that he had tried his best.He cupped his hands and said, "You're making a fool of yourself, please don't laugh at me." Li Yuan said: "The dance is so good. Erlang, reward him." Jieli bowed and said, "I am enjoying myself with everyone, but I dare not accept the reward. I have already been praised by the Supreme Emperor, and that is enough." Li Shimin knew that Jieli was proud and arrogant, since it was not easy for him to perform the sword dance, he stopped forcing him and motioned him to return to his seat. Li Yuan shouted again: "Feng Zhidai, General Jieli has finished dancing his sword, have you written any new poems?" Feng Zhidai got up and said: "I have composed a song together, I'm afraid it will be difficult for everyone to understand." Li Shimin said: "Feng Qing, just stand on your seat and recite the poem." The music in the hall suddenly stopped, and it seemed very quiet for a while.That Feng Zhidai paused his voice, and recited the newly written poem aloud, the poem said: After Feng Zhidai chanted the poem, the people in the hall burst into cheers again, and there were many applause.Everyone said that Xieli's sword dance was good, but Feng Zhidai's poem was even more exquisite.If you don't see Jieli sword dance first, just look at it from the perspective of the poem, it looks like a tall god-man dancing sword there. Seeing the joy of the crowd, Li Yuan couldn't help laughing, and said loudly: "Since ancient times, there has never been such a scene of Huayi family feasting together like today." At this time, the enthusiasm of the banquet atmosphere reached its climax. After the banquet, the officials followed Li Yuan and Li Shimin out of the hall, and they wanted to watch the upcoming Nuo opera.On the steps on the right, Changsun Jiamin led a group of concubines, princes and princesses to gather together.Li Shimin took a closer look and saw that Empress Xiao was also among them. During this happy time, the officials may watch the dance, or someone will go down to the venue, put on a mask, and dance with everyone.Looking at this scene, Xiao Yu suddenly felt something in his heart, so he walked up to Li Yuan and Li Shimin, cupped his hands and said: "When the end of the Sui Dynasty was in chaos, my heart was ashamed. Unexpectedly, in just a few decades, the country has become so prosperous and peaceful. I really didn't expect it. I think the reason for such a scene is simply because the Supreme Emperor and the Emperor are good at managing the country. Today, the old minister, on behalf of the people of the world, thank His Majesty for his gratitude." Li Yuan said with a smile: "Xiao Lang, our own family, do we still need to say such polite words? What's more, the world can be governed to such a degree, and it is also thanks to you." Li Shimin said: "Duke Xiao, what your father said is right. So today's situation can be formed, and it is the result of the joint efforts of our monarchs and ministers. New Year's Eve will pass, and tomorrow will be the New Year. There are many things in the world, and there are still many things that need to be done." We’re working hard, and now is not the time to slack off.” "The old minister knows. The Supreme Emperor, the old minister has an unfeeling request, can I accept it?" "Even though Xiao Lang said yes." "The old minister would like to invite the Supreme Emperor to dance together, how about it?" Li Yuan laughed loudly, and said: "Gu Zao has such intentions. Xiao Lang, let's go, let's go down." Seeing that the Supreme Emperor joined the Nuo dance queue, people couldn't help cheering... After the Nuo show on New Year's Eve, people either lit a fire in the courtyard, or lit candles in the living room, sang and danced, and drank to keep the year old.The palace is no exception.I saw that all the halls were brightly lit with candles, which reflected the beauty and beauty of all the rooms in the hall. The concubines and concubines were all dressed in new clothes, looking resplendent and resplendent.In the courtyard in the center, several piles of fires have already been lit, and they are as bright as day.Beside the fire, some musicians played music, and some dancers danced there with the music. Li Shimin graciously accompanied Li Yuan to watch the singing and dancing.Li Yuan was overly excited today, and just now he jumped with the dance team for a while, after all, he is an elderly person, so he can't stand this kind of trouble.Now when I calm down, I feel heavy eyelids and drowsy.Li Shimin had already prepared a bedroom for him in the Tai Chi Palace, and upon seeing this scene, he advised him to rest early. After Li Yuan left, Li Shimin continued to watch the singing and dancing with his eldest son Jiamin and others.I saw that the burning fire was bright, and the dancers were in graceful postures, which was really wonderful.Li Shimin saw Empress Xiao in the crowd, called her over, and asked, "Compared with the Sui Dynasty, which scene is more luxurious?" Empress Xiao was in Beijing these days, knowing that the current emperor advocates frugality and does not seek luxury, so she replied cautiously: "The Sui Dynasty was short-lived, and your majesty's dynasty is just at the time of prosperity, how can it be compared?" Li Shimin knew that Empress Xiao was jealous, so he smiled and encouraged him: "If everything is connected with the important affairs of the court, it will be too heavy. Empress Xiao, I only ask how the scene is, and nothing else is involved, but you just say it's okay." Empress Xiao lowered her head and said, "If you talk about luxurious scenes, the concubine thinks that today's scenes are not as good as those in the Sui Dynasty." "Speak more carefully." "During the reign of Emperor Yangdi, every New Year's Eve, dozens of volcanoes were set up in various courtyards in front of the hall. The size of the fire is similar to that in front of us, but the fire wood is very special." "How special?" "At that time, the wood roots burned were all agarwood. Every volcano burned several carts of agarwood. When the flames were getting smaller, the armor was thrown into it to make the fire ignite, and the flame immediately rose several feet. In this way, the incense of agarwood and armor, It can float dozens of miles away. At night, everyone in the capital can smell this fragrance." "How much do you need for New Year's Eve?" "In one night, more than 200 carts of agarwood and 200 stones of armor are needed." Li Shimin was surprised and said: "It takes so much! Burning such a valuable thing overnight is really luxurious." Then he laughed at himself: "All the firewood in front of me is burning, but the smoke is smoky, and there is no scent. Compared with Emperor Yangdi." Empress Xiao didn't dare to answer any more, she bowed her head obediently and retreated. Changsun Jiamin said: "Lighting the fire to keep the old age is a bright picture. Why use such a precious wood?" Li Shimin said something strange at this time: "If something is not used, it is a waste. It is due to human nature. The good thing about Emperor Yang is that he has a capable father who has saved a lot of money for him. If he doesn't use it, why not Not a fool?" The elder Sun Jiamin's eyes widened, unexpectedly, such words came from Li Shimin's mouth. Li Shimin changed his face and smiled, and said, "Why are you staring at me? What I want to say is that people only cherish the money and things they earn, don't they?" "What His Majesty said is very..." Li Shimin didn't wait for eldest grandson Jiamin to finish speaking, and interrupted her: "Sister Min, do you want to come to persuade her again on New Year's Eve?" The couple looked at each other and both smiled. It was already midnight, and the eunuch over there began to set off firecrackers.All of a sudden, the sound of firecrackers outside Miyagi was heard one after another, connecting them together. new Year is here.