It was rare that the family was so lively, and both father and son drank a lot. After seeing off the guests, Qin Shubao returned to his room to take a nap. Qin Mubai didn't want to disturb his father, so he was happy to take a nap and invite his father to visit Li Jing later.
Regarding the character Li Jing, most people who know a little bit about history are familiar with it. Qin Mubai didn't know much about history, and he had heard about Li Jing of the Tang Dynasty for a long time.
In short, Li Jing is synonymous with famous generals and victorious generals. For the Zhenguan Tang Dynasty, he was the unrivaled number one veteran in the army, the Optimus Pillar that no one could replace. As long as he participates in any war, there will be no victory.
Li Jing was born into a family of officials and was the nephew of the famous Sui Dynasty general Han Qinhu. Han Qinhu taught him the art of war and martial arts since he was a child. Li Jing showed superhuman military talent when he was young, and became famous among the officials of the Sui Dynasty for his talents. Niu Hong, the Minister of Civil Affairs, praised him for his "talent as a king's assistant", and Yang Su, the former famous general of the Sui Dynasty and Zuopushe, also praised him.
Later, Li Jing surrendered to the Tang Dynasty and followed Li Shimin in his expeditions to the east and west. He began to show his prominence and made great military exploits. When Wang Shichong was pacified, Luoyang was defeated and Hulao was conquered, Li Jing was appointed to open the government for his military merits; when Nanping was defeated by Xiaoxian, Li Jing presented the famous "Ten Strategies for Pingmin".
The battle of Pingnan was the first brilliant point in Li Jing's life. Although Li Xiaogong was named the commander-in-chief, the actual commander-in-chief of the three armies was Li Jing. Soon, he and Li Xiaogong quelled the rebellion launched by Du Fuwei and Fugong Er in the south of the Yangtze River, thus completely pacifying the land of the south of the Yangtze River. At this point, Li Jing had conquered half of the country in Jiangnan for Datang!
After Li Shimin ascended the throne, Li Jing ushered in the highest peak of his military career. The Beiding army captured Jieli Khan alive and eliminated the biggest hidden danger of the Tang Dynasty in the north. Li Jing can be said to have achieved great success and is famous throughout the world. From that moment on, Li Jing became the most irreplaceable military strategist in the Tang Dynasty, and even Emperor Li Shimin also called him brother-in-law. But Li Jing was modest, prudent, low-key and frugal. He never took credit for himself and was arrogant, and he often retreated after success.
After the Turks were pacified, Li Jing, who suffered from foot illness, resigned as prime minister despite the emperor's efforts to stay and recuperated at home. But soon a rebellion broke out in Tuyuhun, and Li Jing, who was in his sixties and suffering from a chronic illness, plucked up the energy to take command and led the five-pronged marching generals including Li Daozong, Hou Junji, Li Daliang, Li Daoyan, and Gao Zengsheng to attack Tuyuhun in the west.
When Qin Mubai's soul traveled through time, it was not long after the triumphant victory over Tuyuhun in the Tang Dynasty came, so he was extremely impressed. The imperial court held a celebration banquet for Li Jing and other generals, and also invited Qin Shubao, who had been idle at home for a long time, to attend. This incident is still vivid in his mind. Remember, the Tang Dynasty not only put down Tuyuhun's rebellion, but also ran thousands of miles to kill horses and drink their blood, chasing the fleeing Tuyuhun Fuyun Khan. Fuyun Khan led more than a thousand cavalry to flee to Qizhong. They were at the end of their rope and his men were scattered one after another. Soon, Fuyun Khan was killed by his subordinates. His eldest son, Murong Shun, King of Daning, killed King Tianzhu and led his troops to surrender to the Tang Dynasty. After two months of bloody fighting, Li Jing led his army to pacify Tuyuhun and claim victory in the capital.
At this point, Tuyuhun had completely become a dependent country of the Tang Dynasty, and treated the Tang Dynasty as a minister. Li Jing led his army to win several classic victories, which also made the Tang Dynasty's majesty powerful and powerful from the border areas to the Western Regions, which frightened all the barbarian countries and asked them to surrender.
Because of this great contribution, Li Jing was granted the title of Duke of Wei and became a highly respected minister. But Li Jing still resigned and went into seclusion to thank guests behind closed doors, retreating bravely. Therefore, Qin Mubai rarely saw Li Jing in person in court, and never had even a few words of conversation with him.
If you want to become his disciple, apart from the emperor's acquiescence and recommendation, you may not be able to just go there on your own. Qin Mubai thought that if he invited his father along, the success rate might be higher.
Whether in the Tang Dynasty or in the history of China, Li Jing was a well-known figure. From the bottom of his heart, Qin Mubai still respected Li Jing.
After returning to the room, I was in a daze for an hour, and the alcohol had dissipated. Qin Mubai went to see his father. Qin Shubao happily drank a few more glasses today and was still asleep. Mrs. Liu was waiting for him in the room with sobering soup. When he walked outside and was about to knock on the door, Qin Mubai heard his parents talking inside.
"Sanlang is confused. A good princess wants to marry her, but she is obsessed with Wu Meiniang." It was obviously Qin Shubao's voice. He said, "I don't dislike Wu Meiniang, but if the emperor grants a marriage, how can it be difficult? Is it possible to make Princess Gaoyang a concubine? I think Sanlang and Wu Meiniang are in love. If he can't let go, he will be in trouble. "
"Uncle Bao, Sanlang is a smart boy, he will be able to take care of things clearly, so we don't have to worry too much." Mrs. Liu said, "I spent half a day with Mei Niang today, and I feel that this boy behaves well and generously. , she is worthy of Sanlang and a suitable mistress. On the contrary, although Princess Gaoyang is a noble woman, she is not as knowledgeable and courteous as Wu Meiniang, and she looks like a trouble-free child."
"What do you know?" Qin Shubao said, "A woman is completely different after she is married than before she was married. Wu Mei Niang is more calm and capable than Princess Gaoyang, but she also has deep thoughts and deep thoughts, so she may not be a good wife. Gao Yang, on the other hand, is devoted to Saburo. Where can he find such a woman, let alone a princess? She has not experienced many things since she was born in the royal family, so it is reasonable for her to be simple and naive, but as long as she is kind and reasonable, she is a good person. Good wife. I would be happy for Saburo to marry the princess."
"Hey, Shubao, I tell you not to worry so much." Ms. Liu said, "Even though the marriage is an important matter, it is decided by the parents and the matchmaker, but it is still them who live their lives. Whether they live well or not, it is up to them. Only they themselves know. I think Saburo has his own account and can handle the affairs of these two women."
"Look at what nonsense you're talking about. Can we not worry about our son's marriage?" Qin Shubao said, "Both the elder brother and the second son have been married and established businesses for a long time. Only the third son has been pretending to be a son-in-law, and how can he behave like this? If the emperor If marriage is really given to him, he must marry him or not!"
"Okay, okay, what you said is right, okay? Don't be angry, drink the sobering soup!" Mrs. Liu hurriedly consoled her.
"Sanlang is just spoiled by you, huh!"
…
When Qin Mubai heard this outside the door, he couldn't help but feel a little nervous: It seems that his father has a good impression of Princess Gaoyang, but he still has a prejudice against Wu Meiniang... That's all, what are you thinking about now? Firstly, the emperor has not formally conferred the marriage, and secondly, my wedding date with Wu Meiniang is still a year away. A lot can happen in this year. There are two major things before me now. One is to become a disciple of Li Jing and get this golden sign of being "Li Jing's disciple"; the other is to consider changing jobs. Let’s think about the long-lasting love between children and children when you have time!
Qin Mubai walked aside and waited for a long time. After his mother came out of the room, he went to see his father.
There was some alcohol smell in the room, Qin Shubao's face was still rosy, but he seemed to be in high spirits and in a good mood.
"Sanlang, come and sit down. My father is looking for you." Qin Shubao asked him to sit down opposite.
"What does father want from me?" Qin Mubai asked knowingly. His father obviously wanted to talk to him about his children's marriage.
"It's rare that the mansion is lively today." Qin Shubao said with a smile, "There are many guests here. Except for Cheng Zhijie, it seems that everyone else is your guest! It seems that you are really strong now and can hold up The Qin family is a member."
"Father teased."
"As a father, I would like to ask, what are your plans for marriage?" Qin Shubao asked the question.
"This..." Qin Mubai looked confused and shook his head, "My child has a few big things to do at the moment, and I don't have much to think about for the time being."
"Oh?" Qin Shubao couldn't help showing a hint of surprise, "Tell me, what a big deal it is?"
Qin Mubai told his father about becoming a disciple and changing jobs.
After hearing this, Qin Shubao frowned and thought for a long time. He nodded and said, "Yes, these two major events are indeed worth doing. I told you a long time ago that Li Jing is the number one figure in our Tang army. . It will be of great benefit to you to become your disciple. It is rare that the emperor acquiesced to you this time and asked you to go to visit Li Jing on his behalf, just to recommend him to you. But... since the last time he defeated Tuyuhun. , Li Jing was accused of treason. Although the matter was finally thoroughly investigated and the accuser was punished, it was an indisputable fact that Li Jing had a high reputation, so he resigned and left the court behind closed doors, including his relatives. Friends are not allowed to join him. I’m afraid it will be difficult to become his teacher at this time!”
Qin Mubai smiled and said: "That's why I want to ask my father to go with me. Looking at the Buddha's face without looking at the monk's face, not only has the emperor's recommendation, but also has the face of an old friend like you, Li Jing is too embarrassed to refuse anymore." ?”
"Oh?" Qin Shubao was startled for a moment, then laughed, "You bastard, you actually came up with your father's idea! My father has been living in the house for three to five years and has never left the house, and he has never taken the initiative to visit. No matter who you are, I will accompany you today to sell this old face to Li Jing’s house to see if it’s worth a few cents for your unworthy sake!”
"Thank you very much, Father!"
After a few hours, the father and son were ready and went out to Li Jing's house. In addition to a "spiritual longevity stick" given by the emperor, the father and son only brought two bottles of home-brewed Qinxian wine as a small meeting gift.
Before leaving, Qin Mubai asked the servants to prepare the carriage and horses. Qin Shubao stopped and said: "We are both military attachés and ordinary visitors to friends, so let's go on horseback!"
Qin Mubai was happy, his father's move was quite interesting. When a prince travels, even if there is no pomp and circumstance, it is natural to prepare a sedan or ride in a carriage. Furthermore, everyone knows that Qin Shubao has always been in poor health and has been out of court for many years. This time he took the initiative to ride a horse to visit Li Jing, with the intention of announcing to the outside world that he had recovered.
In particular, the person visiting was Li Jing, the military god of the Tang Dynasty who suffered from leg disease, which was even more interesting.
The father and son went out without taking their entourage, and rode towards Li Jing's house.
The Duke of Wei's mansion arrived soon. The door was closed and there was no door to greet guests. It seems that it is true that Li Jing thanked the guests behind closed doors.
"Sanlang, come forward and call the door."
The father and son got off their horses, and Qin Mubai stepped forward to call the door. After taking pictures for a long time, the door creaked open, and an old man came out. He looked Qin Mubai up and down, and bowed his hands in salute: "What do you call me, sir? What are you doing in my house?"
Qin Mubai cupped his hands and returned the gift: "My envoy Qin Mubai, on the order of His Majesty the Emperor, has come to present the gifts given by the Emperor to Duke Wei."
"Oh, General Qin is His Majesty's envoy?" The old man hurriedly changed his color, turned to look at Qin Shubao, blinked his somewhat cloudy old eyes, and murmured, "That one... looks so familiar!"
"Haha, Mr. Zhong, your memory is not too bad!" Qin Shubao laughed and walked forward, "You still recognize me, Qin Qiong!"
"Ah?!... You are - Qin Shubao!" Mr. Zhong suddenly cried out, looked at Qin Shubao up and down 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, Now my eyes are so dim that I can’t even recognize people!”
"Haha, I guess you are almost eighty, right?" Qin Shubao said with a smile, "Let us father and son go in quickly. Is the pharmacist in the house?"
"Yes, yes." Mr. Zhong said with joy on his face, "If it weren't for Uncle Bao's visit, I would never dare to let you in... Hey, Qin Shubao, Qin Mubai, you two are father and son, right?"
"Didn't I tell you everything just now?" Qin Shubao said with a smile, "This is Qin Liang, the son of a dog, named Mu Bai, the third eldest son, and currently holds the position of the Hundred Cavalry Envoy."
"Ah, it's true that a tiger father has no dog son!" Mr. Zhong looked at Qin Mubai up and down in surprise, then opened the door and invited the two of them in.
Qin Shubao asked as he walked: "Mr. Zhong, why is the gate of Duke Wei's mansion so difficult to enter?"
"My master has given you such an order, and my servants have no choice but to do it." Mr. Zhong said, "I also said just now that if it weren't for the imperial envoy arriving and a rare visitor like you, I wouldn't dare to let you in. Otherwise, you will be arrested. The master scolded."
"Haha, old beard is still so stubborn." Qin Shubao brushed his beard and smiled.
"Both of you, please wait a moment until I come forward to report."
The father and son stopped at a small pavilion on the corner in front of the main house and waited patiently. Qin Shubao said: "Sanlang, when you meet Li Jing later, don't use exaggeration or rhetoric. Li Jing is a humble, prudent, steady and capable man, and he looks down on those who are frivolous, shallow, and talkative."
"My child has taken note of it."
After waiting for a moment, Mr. Zhong hurriedly came out, bent down and bowed his hands to Qin and his son: "I forgive you, I'm an old fool, you actually let the imperial envoy and Duke Yi wait here! I heard that the censor and old friends Come here and get ready to go out."
"No need to go to such trouble." Qin Shubao said with a smile, "Just lead us there. The pharmacist has difficulty with his legs and feet, so there is no need for him to come out to greet us."
"This is absolutely impossible!" Mr. Zhong pointed at Qin Mubai in a hurry and said nervously, "Although he is your son, he is the imperial censor!"
"Oh? Haha!" Qin Shubao laughed, "I forgot, the pharmacist always knows etiquette and respects etiquette. Anyway, our father and son will wait patiently here, and go back and tell the pharmacist that there is no need to rush."
Old Man Zhong bowed and went back. Qin Shubao said with a smile: "Mu Bai, Li Jing is such a cautious and meticulous person. Today, his contribution ranks first in the world, and everyone says that he has great achievements. But. But In my opinion, there is no one who knows the difference between honor and disgrace better than him, and will surely end well in the future.”
Qin Mubai nodded with deep approval: "Just for this way of dealing with others, I have a lot to learn from him."
"Well said." Qin Shubao nodded approvingly, "You must remember that if he agrees to accept you, he will be a teacher for one day and a father for life. Treat him as you would your father."
"Yes, Father."
After a while, the doors of the main hall in front opened wide to both sides, and a man walked out. He was wearing a formal purple court dress. He was tall and looked majestic even though he was holding a cane. The beard and hair are all silvery white, and the most eye-catching one is the beautiful beard that reaches the navel, which dances in the wind and looks quite handsome.
"Welcome minister Li Jing, welcome to the imperial censor!" Li Jing gave up his crutches and solemnly handed over his hands, and Li Jing bent down and bowed down.
"Duke Wei, please forgive me." Qin Mubai hurriedly stepped forward, held up the box containing the longevity staff with both hands, and said, "I am Qin Mubai, the envoy of Baiqi, who came to present this gift just on your Majesty's order. Emperor Gen gave me a crutch. This staff is called the Lingshou Staff, and it was specially made for Duke Wei by a skilled craftsman."
Li Jing still didn't raise his head. He raised his hands above his head and took the box. He said in a loud voice like a bell: "Your Majesty has shown such kindness to me that I have been so kind to you that I can't repay you for it. Long live my emperor. Long live my emperor. Long live my emperor." Long live!"
Qin Mubai had no choice but to accompany him through the ceremony and said, "Your Majesty has given Duke Wei a free gift. Duke Wei, please take your crutches. There is no need to be so polite."
"Thank you for your kindness!" Li Jing solemnly handed the box to the servant, took the crutches, then looked at Qin Mubai intently, and then moved his eyes behind Qin Mubai, with a look of surprise on his face, and raised his head She pointed her finger at him and said loudly: "Shu Bao? You are Shu Bao!"
"Haha, my big brother, do you remember my little brother?" Qin Shubao also laughed and stepped forward, holding his hands together, "Yes, it is Qin Qiong!"
"Haha! I only met you briefly at the last celebration banquet. We haven't had such a good talk in how many years!" Li Jing was obviously very happy. He laughed and looked Qin Shubao up and down, and his face suddenly showed surprise. "Hey, where's your crutch?"
Qin Shubao laughed heartily: "My little brother now eats ten kilograms of rice a day. He can fight fierce tigers and cut down thousands of armies. What's the use of that crutch?!"
"Oh, Uncle Bao's illness...has recovered?" Li Jing said in surprise.
"That's true." Qin Shubao chuckled, "Brother, you have been suffering from leg disease for many years, why don't you take care of it? You and I are the same. We got these stubborn diseases from fighting in the army. But I am lucky enough to be able to cure all these diseases. Well, now, I’m waiting for His Majesty’s call, and I’m ready to fight on the battlefield for the country!”
"Okay, okay, very good." Li Jing nodded and smiled happily, then turned to look at Qin Mubai, and said with a chuckle, "Qin Mubai, the Baiqi Envoy, has been famous for a long time. Uncle Bao, this is yours Third Young Master, right?”
"It's Quanzi." Qin Shubao said with a smile, "Sanlang, why don't you come and see your Uncle Li soon?"