Chapter 38

Chapter 38: Li Shimin is also aggrieved!

“Is the salt in Changan City profitable?” Xiao Ran questioned Li Lizhi.

“It’s definitely profitable! The aristocratic families are raking in money! The most lucrative trade in the world is salt. Whoever controls salt can make a fortune,” Li Lizhi explained.

Having some knowledge, Xiao Ran realized that Li Shimin couldn’t do much about these people now.

“Isn’t salt controlled by the court?” Xiao Ran recalled that salt and iron were usually under imperial control.

Li Lizhi clarified, “Salt and iron are divided into public and private. Following the Sui system, the Salt and Iron Envoys control most salt wells in other states. In Changan City, about eighty to ninety percent of salt is privately controlled by aristocratic families, and the limited public salt is supplied to the army.”

Surprised, Xiao Ran understood why salt prices skyrocketed and why it was in the hands of aristocrats.

“Even with private salt, the tax must be hefty, right? Salt is incredibly profitable!”

“True, but here in Changan City, under the Emperor’s control, those who manage salt are either aristocrats or high-ranking officials. If they want to evade taxes, how would the Salt and Iron Envoys dare to confront them? The income from salt near Changan City hardly reaches the national treasury.”

Xiao Ran was shocked to realize his father-in-law’s predicament.

“The revenue from salt and iron is extraordinary for the court. So, if there’s an issue with salt and iron, isn’t that a matter for the Emperor and the ministers?”

Seeing Li Chengqian’s condition, Empress Zhangsun felt uneasy, as both of them worried about the impact of his leg issue on the future crown prince.

“My son, I have met my mother!” Li Chengqian is genuinely happy to see the improved health of Empress Zhangsun.

“Chengqian, get up!” She responded.

“Mother, how is your health?” Li Chengqian asked with concern.

“It’s much better. I’m so bored staying in Lizheng Hall every day. Come out for a walk!” Empress Zhangsun invited.

“Mother, it’s cold. If you’re afraid of the cold, you must still be careful,” Li Chengqian advised.

Empress Zhangsun agreed, and a maid handed her the thermal underwear. “Li Lizhi gave this to you. I’ve been wearing it, and it provides excellent warmth! This winter is too cold. Put it on later...”

“What is this?” Li Chengqian examined it, appreciating the feel of the fabric.

“I don’t know the specific origin,” Empress Zhangsun admitted.

Li Chengqian nodded, “Thank you, Queen Mother!”

“I won’t disturb your studies. Remember to wear it later..,” Empress Zhangsun said as she took her leave.