Chapter 96:
Chapter 96:
Chapter 96:
Since Changle agreed to host a poetry gathering at the Princess Mansion, Li Xueyan had been busy. She was traveling between the mansions of various influential figures in Changan City these days.
Even in the county palace, she organized a few small poetry gatherings. Thanks to Li Xueyans efforts, Su Lis poems quickly gained popularity within this small circle.
The poignant verses earned tears from young girls and newlywed noblewomen. Li Xueyans goal was to make the poetry gathering at the Princess Mansion lively.
So, she didnt reveal all of Su Lis poems or disclose that Su Li was the author. She only mentioned that the author would appear at the Princess Mansions poetry gathering.
Soon, Princess Changles poetry gathering became well-known in Changan. Everyone who saw the poems presented by Li Xueyan wanted to attend the gathering to meet the rising star of the poetry world.
Unknowingly, the day of the poetry gathering arrived. In the evening, a full moon had just risen.
In front of the Princess Mansion was a bustling scene with carriages and people.
Almost all the top noblewomen of the Tang Dynasty were present at todays gathering. Even at the Princess Mansion, such a grand event was rare.
The entire mansion, along with hundreds of servants, was bustling under the direction of female officers. With the moon high in the sky, the garden inside the Princess Mansion was already filled with people.
Lanterns of various styles adorned the branches, casting a soft yellow light over the entire garden. Everywhere, young women chatted and laughed, and no matter which direction they walked, a fragrant breeze greeted them. The atmosphere was lively and joyful. These noblewomen rarely participated in such large-scale events, so they had endless conversations.
Combined with the variety of snacks provided by the Princess Mansion, the scene was even more festive. Amid this cheerful ambiance, Changle formally announced the start of the poetry gathering.
Traditionally, the first step of such a gathering was to share popular poems.
That was the initial plan as well. However, when the servants distributed the recently collected verses, everyone seemed uninterested.
Li Zhi, we didnt come here to see these dull things. Wheres the author? Bring them out for everyone to see! a candid noblewoman said.
This statement received immediate agreement from the others. Everyone present had seen the poems circulated through Li Xueyans efforts.
During this period, these noblewomen had been captivated by those few poems. Womens hearts were delicate, and Li Xueyan had specifically chosen to write sentimental poems.
It could be said that they both loved and resented the author of these poems. Which young girl didnt yearn for romance?
The poems heart-wrenching or sweet depictions of love touched their hearts with each line. Reading these verses repeatedly each day, their emotions resonated, intensifying their curiosity about the authors.
In their experiences, they had never encountered someone with such eloquence and charm. One could imagine that once the author revealed their identity. Regardless of their background, with such devoted fans spreading the word, they would become famous instantly.
Looking at these women, each eagerly awaiting her turn, Changles heart was filled with boundless joy. She knew that their interest was solely due to her husbands talent. She turned to Su Li and whispered, My husband
Su Lis face showed a slightly helpless smile. He understood Changles desire to vindicate him. In Su Lis original intentions, this matter held little significance. After all, what use was literary fame? Even if he became as renowned as the great poet Li Bai, his verses would be mere entertainment in the eyes of the emperor.
Ordinary aspirations for fame and wealth meant nothing to Su Li. He couldnt act without restraint whether he achieved great fame or high status. However, since Changle was eager, he didnt mind the attention. Su Li stood up.
Suddenly, all the noble women wore expressions of disbelief. After all, before this, everyone knew Su Li was just an ordinary peasant. There were rumors that he was lucky to marry Princess Changle. There was no comparison between Su Li and Changle regarding background or education.
However, Su Li didnt care about these comparisons. He knew his wifes heart was set on organizing this poetry gathering not out of vanity but to validate his worth.
Su Li wasnt concerned about his reputation but was willing to make his wife happy. Without waiting for anyone to play the role of the antagonist or for any dramatic reveal, Su Li, without hesitation, presented the poems he had prepared in advance.
One titled Untitled, another Jin Se, and yet another Acacia. These were common poems often found in the literary novels of his past life. In the context of a novel, the protagonist would only reveal such powerful verses after facing setbacks and numerous shocks.
However, Su Lis intention was not the same. He didnt seek fame but simply wished to fulfill Changles desire. Moreover, whether he deserved Changles affection wasnt determined by others.
Li Er took the sweet potatoes and potatoes from his own stash. Even though the reward hadnt been officially granted yet, there was no way Li Er could forget his contribution. Whether he deserved the credit or not was up to Li Er to determine, and with his audacious demeanor, he was probably already secretly enjoying it.
Due to Su Lis strategic move, the entire poetry gathering became Su Lis spotlight. They didnt have time to voice their doubts before being plunged into amazement. In just a short moment, Su Li managed to cover the astonishing plot points that would have taken more than a dozen chapters in a novel.
Like a spring silkworm dying after spinning its silk, a wax torch burns to ashes as tears fall.
This sentiment can only be reminisced, for it was already lost at that moment.
Red beans born in the southern land, a few branches sprout in spring. May you pick more, for this thing embodies lovesickness.
The noble women erupted in praises and admiration. Su Li, however, only looked towards Changle.
Is that enough, my lady? Su Lis eyes carried a playful smile.
Yes, yes, Changle nodded vigorously.
As their eyes met, although they exchanged only a few words, their genuine emotions couldnt be hidden. Despite being given a dose of romantic affection, the noblewomen present were still captivated by the scene.
At this moment, an idea sprouted in everyones minds. Who said this consort was just a useless peasant? To craft such poetry, to write such wordscould such a person be unworthy of Changle?
A man of talent and a woman of beauty! Su Li possessed handsome looks and demonstrated talent todayrumors were shattered instantly, doubts were crushed!
This was the true coupling of talent and beauty, a perfect match! And the noblewomen who had initially pitied Changles marriage now found themselves envious, wishing it were them instead!