Chapter 150:

Chapter 150:

As the messenger made his way through the streets, it coincided with the time when various districts and markets of Changan were starting their day. Even those Changan residents still in bed at this hour were awakened by the growing noise. The herald shouted as he sprinted through the markets, but his horses speed didnt falter. He seemed to pass like a fleeting silhouette. Only a few individuals in each market could fully grasp the swift report.

For the peaceful citizens of Changan, this remarkable victory was a surprise. The content of the message was enough to send shivers down their spines. News quickly spread from person to person, taking only minutes. By the time the messenger had reached the imperial palace, almost every citizen of Changan was already aware of the victorious report from Song Zhou.

The Great Tang Dynasty had always upheld the principle of a strong military, ensuring a strong nation. After Li Er ascended the throne to enhance his image, he engaged in several wars, with nearly yearly reports of successful battles. The people of Guanzhong, the central region, have always had a penchant for warfare, a tradition dating back to the Former Qin period. Guanzhong boasted a long history of martial prowess as the core area of Central Plains civilization, and young individuals took pride in joining the military. It was precisely due to this tradition that the early Tang Dynasty established a system of regional garrisons, yet the combat effectiveness of its military remained exceptionally strong. Today, the confidence of the Great Tang Dynastys people when facing foreign tribes was also built upon the foundations of these years of consecutive victories.

Especially in this recent triumph at Song Zhou, the adversary wasnt the previously unengaged Tubo (Tibetan Empire) but rather a confrontation resulting in a significant win!

Such news naturally served as a great source of inspiration. However, associating such notable victories with Su Li inevitably aroused curiosity. The people of Changan were not unfamiliar with the name Su Li.

In the past two years, though Su Li had seldom left his residence, he had achieved several remarkable feats. Rising from a common peasant to become the emperors son-in-law, such a story was unprecedented in history. His initial impression on everyone was that of incredible good fortune. Later, Su Li engaged in poetic duels, producing hundreds of poems, solidifying his position as the Poet Sage of the Great Tang. His literary reputation had already become legendary within scholarly circles. Subsequently, he introduced new agricultural techniques and made significant contributions, even gaining recognition in the prestigious Imperial Smoke Pavilion.

One notable achievement after another, all of these accomplishments were undoubtedly real and substantial. Particularly with the successful cultivation of potatoes and sweet potatoes recently, many people were incredibly thankful to Su Li. Among the common folk of the Great Tang, Su Li was almost revered as a symbol of good luck.

In the letter, Su Li primarily discussed two matters. First, he mentioned the challenge of handling the large number of captives they had taken. He humorously asked if the Emperor wanted slaves. Second, he addressed the prolonged arrogance of Tubo along the borders of the Great Tang and his intention to launch an offensive into Tubo territory while they were still stirred up. He requested some logistical support from Li Er. Finishing the extensive five-thousand-word letter, Li Er shook his head with a wry smile. This young fellow thinks quite big when doing business with me Despite his words, the expression on Li Ers face showed that he didnt mind Su Lis ambitious requests.

On the other side, in the princesss residence. Early in the morning. Following Su Lis instructions before his departure, Changle would take a short stroll after breakfast each day. As the delivery date approached, her belly had grown larger. After walking briefly, Changle began to feel a bit tired. She sat in the pavilion near the garden, staring blankly at the pond. Nearly half a month had passed since her husbands departure. During this time, Changle had been constantly yearning for him.

Throughout the grand princesss residence, there were memories of her husband everywhere, memories that were dear to her heart. During this period, Changle often unintentionally lingered in certain places for quite some time. Whenever this happened, her attendants knew better than to disturb her tranquility.

Suddenly, a female officer hurriedly approached from a distance. Princess, theres a victorious report from Song Zhou! Changle gently supported her belly, waiting for the officer to approach. Excitedly, the officer exclaimed, The son-in-law has achieved a great victory over Tubo in Song Zhou! Subsequently, the officer shared the details she had gathered with Changle. Even though Changle maintained her composed demeanor, her eyes grew increasingly bright.

Observing this, the officer was even more enthusiastic. She recounted Su Lis achievements within the military and the praises bestowed upon him by the people of Changan. Since Su Lis departure from the campaign, it seemed like the princesss spirit had departed with him. The lively and spirited princess had become somewhat sad during this time. As expected, only news about her husband could bring joy to her heart.

Princess, Tubo has been defeated. I wonder when the son-in-law will return? The officer asked eagerly. Changle gently caressed her belly and chuckled, My husband said he would return before our child is born. So, he will surely come back.