Chapter 61: Balancing Delayed Childbirth with Strategic Planning

Chapter 61: Balancing Delayed Childbirth with Strategic Planning

In the study of a modern penthouse apartment, Wang Yi looked at the newly issued household registration booklet, on which a newly added page read:

Name: Li Qingyun

Gender: Female

“Qingyun…” Wang Yi murmured the name, her fingertips tracing the paper. Of the three names, she ultimately chose “Qingyun” because it possessed both elegance and a subtle beauty of music, echoing the sounds of bells, drums, zithers, and lutes from the Tang Dynasty court in her memory.

Beautiful, graceful, and elegant. Three daughters, three names from their father, a connection that transcends time and space.

Next to the household registration booklet was a detailed medical examination report. Zhou Wei had used her connections to arrange a consultation with top domestic obstetrics and gynecology experts and endocrinologists, who conducted a comprehensive examination for Wang Yi.

The report's conclusion was clear: all physical indicators were normal, the uterus was recovering well, hormone levels were stable, and there were no obvious aftereffects from the intensive pregnancies. However, experts also gave serious advice: "Although the current condition is good, having three pregnancies in three years is extremely taxing on a woman's body. It is recommended to wait at least three years before considering another pregnancy to allow the body sufficient time to recover."

Wang Yi closed the report and looked out the window. The city's neon lights flickered in the night sky, completely different from the starry sky of the Tang Dynasty she had just left, yet they reflected the same choice she had made.

Zhou Wei pushed open the door and came in, carrying two glasses of warm milk: "Finished reading? You should listen to what the experts say."

Wang Yi took the milk and nodded: "I understand. There won't be any more in the short term."

"Really?" Zhou Wei sat down opposite her, carefully observing her expression. "What if that guy surnamed Li still wants a son? Can you withstand the pressure?"

Wang Yi smiled faintly: "He has no say in my affairs."

These words were spoken casually, yet Zhou Wei sensed a sense of estrangement in them. She hesitated for a moment, then asked, "Yiyi, what exactly is going on between you and him? You've had three children with him, but you never let him see the children or let him participate in their upbringing. This doesn't seem like a normal romantic relationship."

Wang Yi was silent for a moment, then slowly said, "Weiwei, there are some things I can't say. But you just need to know that everything I did was my own choice, and I wasn't coerced or controlled by anyone."

"Do you love him?"

This question startled Wang Yi. Did she love Li Shimin? That emperor of all time, the man with whom she had such complex ties.

There was admiration, dependence, calculation, and genuine affection... but the word "love" is too simple to encompass everything between them.

"I don't know," Wang Yi finally answered honestly. "Maybe there is love, but it's more than just love."

Zhou Wei sighed: "Okay, I won't ask anymore. As long as you know what you're doing, that's fine. But it's your own body, so cherish it."

"I know." Wang Yi held her hand. "Thank you for always being by my side."

After seeing Zhou Wei off, Wang Yi sat alone in the study for a long time. She spread out a piece of paper and began to plan her next steps.

I. Modern Aspects:

1. The upbringing and education of my three daughters: Lizhi is four years old and it's time to consider preschool education; Shuyao is one and a half years old and needs more interaction and early learning; Qingyun is three months old and needs careful care.

2. Company Affairs – The biotechnology company's new drug development has entered a critical stage, requiring her to guide the direction; medical investment projects require decision-making; and the maritime trade cooperation with the Zhou family needs to be followed up.

3. Public opinion management – ​​Appropriately accept an exclusive interview to clarify some rumors and showcase your multiple identities as an independent woman, a successful entrepreneur, and a mother.

II. From the perspective of the Tang Dynasty:

1. Balancing the succession struggle – The conflict between Li Chengqian and Li Tai will intensify sooner or later, and she needs to maintain the stability of the court as much as possible without getting involved.

2. The advancement of various reforms—agriculture, water conservancy, roads, and maritime trade—all require continued attention and guidance.

3. The cultivation of Wu Zetian – This woman has great potential and needs to be further guided to ensure that she becomes an asset to Li Chengqian rather than a threat.

4. Consolidation of one's own position - maintaining a good relationship with Li Shimin and preserving the transcendent status of "Protector of the Nation".

Wang Yi paused here. Finally, she added:

Postpone birth control plans.

The reasons are quite valid: the pressure of modern public opinion, health considerations, the complex situation in the Tang Dynasty... but the deepest reason is that she needs to concentrate on dealing with the challenges ahead.

Li Tai's ambition has become apparent, and Li Chengqian's position as heir apparent is not as secure as it appears. Historically, the two brothers eventually broke off relations, with Li Chengqian even plotting a rebellion and being deposed. Although she is now involved and Empress Zhangsun is still alive, uncertainties remain.

At such a critical moment, if she becomes pregnant again and shuttles between two worlds, her energy will inevitably be scattered. And if she makes a wrong judgment, she may lose everything.

"At least until the struggle for the crown prince position becomes clear," Wang Yi muttered to himself.

She put away her paper and pen and went to the nursery. All three daughters were fast asleep—Lizhi was hugging a teddy bear, Shuyao was curled up in a tiny ball, and Qingyun was smacking her lips in the crib.

Wang Yi gently stroked each child's forehead, a soft yet firm strength welling up within her.

She wants to create a better future for these children. Whether in modern times or the Tang Dynasty, they should have the freedom to grow and the right to choose their own path in life.

To achieve this, she must be stronger, more clear-headed, and more thorough.

---

A few days later, Wang Yi arranged a media interview. It wasn't a formal press conference, but an in-depth interview with a high-end women's magazine.

The interview took place in her company's meeting room, an elegant and private setting. The reporter is a seasoned female media professional known for her focus on women's growth and diverse values.

"Mr. Wang, thank you for accepting the interview." The reporter got straight to the point, "There is a lot of curiosity about you, especially about the fact that you gave birth to three daughters in three years."

Wang Yi was dressed in a simple beige suit today, with appropriate makeup and a composed demeanor: "I understand everyone's curiosity. So I want to clarify some things through this interview."

"First of all, regarding my choice to have children—this was my personal decision. I love children, I am capable of raising them, so I had children at the right time. That's all."

"Secondly, regarding the child's father—we respect each other's privacy and choices. He doesn't ask about my career, and I don't interfere in his life. We are both responsible for the child in our own ways."

"Finally, regarding my health—I have regular full checkups, a professional medical team and nutritionist, and am in good health. Women have the freedom to give birth, and the freedom not to give birth. I chose the former and am fully prepared for it."

The reporter took careful notes and then asked, "But many people believe that your frequent childbirth is a 'waste' of a woman's body and a compromise with traditional gender roles. How do you view this criticism?"

Wang Yi smiled: "I believe that true feminism is about supporting women's right to make their own choices—whether it's choosing a career, choosing a family, or choosing both. I chose to have children, but I didn't give up my career. My company is developing new drugs to treat rare diseases, my investments have helped several medical startups, and I also participate in public welfare projects to support women's health in remote areas..."

She cited a series of data and examples to present a three-dimensional and multifaceted image—not only a mother, but also an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist.

"So why do people only see that I 'gave birth to three children' but not the other things I did at the same time?" Wang Yi asked rhetorically. "Is it because subconsciously, people still believe that once a woman becomes a mother, she should be confined to a certain framework?"

This question gave the reporter pause for thought.

The interview lasted two hours, covering topics ranging from personal life to career planning, women's growth, and social prejudice. Wang Yi's performance was rational, clear, and powerful, completely overturning outside speculation that she was "love-obsessed" and "controlled."

After the interview was published, public opinion shifted significantly. Many people began to re-examine Wang Yi, recognizing her multiple identities and achievements as an independent woman.

Zhou Wei brought the magazine to Wang Yi and said with a smile, "That's good, those rumors have been debunked. But when I looked at the comments section, people started speculating again about who the children's father is."

"Let them guess," Wang Yi said indifferently. "As long as it doesn't affect the children."

---

A week later, Wang Yi bid farewell to her three daughters and began the process of returning to her family.

In the moment before her consciousness faded, she took one last look at her modern home and silently said: Wait for me to come back.

When she opened her eyes again, she was in the familiar sleeping quarters of the Qixia Garden in the Tang Dynasty. Outside the window, the morning light was just beginning to appear, almost seamlessly connecting with the time she had left.

Wang Yi got up and felt the condition of her body—healthy, strong, without the fatigue of pregnancy and childbirth, or the weariness of traveling between two worlds.

Hearing the commotion, the head palace maid came in to serve: "Master, the Crown Prince's concubine, Lady Wu, has sent someone to inquire about the occasion. She says that the little prince's full-month celebration is approaching and she would like to ask the Master for guidance on the etiquette."

Wang Yi nodded: "I understand. I will pay my respects to His Majesty first, and then go to the East Palace."

After washing up, Wang Yi went to the Liangyi Hall.

With Li Xiang's (Wu Zetian's son) one-month birthday approaching, Li Shimin prepared to hold a banquet in the palace to celebrate. Li Chengqian was therefore even busier, having to handle state affairs and prepare for the banquet.

Li Tai's compilation of the "Kuodi Zhi" is progressing smoothly, with one-third of the first draft already completed. Li Shimin is quite satisfied and has praised him on several occasions at court assemblies.

The drought in Hebei continues, with no rain for over a month. Emperor Taizong of Tang is discussing disaster relief strategies with his court officials.

There are problems to deal with everywhere. Even if you had a child, you wouldn't have a chance to rest even if you went back to the Tang Dynasty.

Upon arriving at the Liangyi Hall, Li Shimin was discussing the drought situation with several ministers. Seeing Wang Yi arrive, a look of joy flashed in his eyes, and he waved for the ministers to leave.

"Is your seclusion over? Have you gained anything?" Li Shimin asked.

"I have some thoughts on this," Wang Yi said, bowing. "Hearing of the drought in Hebei, I am also very worried. I wonder what Your Majesty's plans are?"

Li Shimin sighed: "I have already ordered the granaries to be opened and grain distributed, but if the drought continues, I fear it may lead to a popular uprising. I would like to hear your opinion."

Wang Yi pondered for a moment: "Your Majesty, in addition to distributing grain and providing relief, we need to address the root cause of the drought. I suggest that we take advantage of this drought to promote cement water conservancy projects in Hebei, and build reservoirs and canals, which will not only alleviate the current drought, but also prepare for future disaster prevention."

"In addition, drought-resistant crop varieties can be promoted. Among the wheat varieties bred by Sinong Temple in recent years, there are several that are relatively drought-resistant, and they can be tested in Hebei."

"Furthermore, we can organize a medical team from the Imperial Medical Academy to go to the disaster area to prevent epidemics that may be caused by the drought."

She explained each point clearly and logically, demonstrating thorough consideration. Li Shimin listened and nodded repeatedly, saying, "You've thought of everything very thoroughly. I'll arrange it immediately."

After the business was over, Li Shimin's tone became more relaxed: "There is another joyous occasion. Chengqian's son is one month old, and I plan to hold a banquet in the palace. You are the child's 'grandmaster,' so you must come."

Wang Yi smiled and said, "I will definitely go. Consort Wu came to ask me about banquet etiquette the other day. I will go to the East Palace to see her later."

"I trust you to guide her," Li Shimin said. "That child is intelligent, but she is young, and there are some things she needs guidance from an elder like you."

After leaving the Liangyi Hall, Wang Yi headed towards the East Palace. Along the way, she pondered her next course of action.

Li Xiang's full-moon celebration was not only a family affair, but also a political occasion. All factions would be watching—the eldest son of the Crown Prince, the Emperor's eldest grandson—this child's status was extraordinary. Every detail of the banquet could be interpreted in various ways.

As the "Guardian of the Nation," a supporter of the Crown Prince, and Wu Zetian's "mentor," her role at this banquet was quite delicate. She needed to show support for the Crown Prince, but she couldn't be too biased, lest she exacerbate the conflict with the Prince of Wei's faction.

Upon arriving at Yichun Palace, Wu Meiniang was directing the palace servants to set up the banquet venue. More than a month after giving birth, she had recovered very well, with a rosy complexion. Although her figure had not fully recovered, she already showed her former competence.

"Real person!" Upon seeing Wang Yi, Wu Meiniang's eyes lit up, and she quickly stepped forward to greet him.

"No need for such formalities." Wang Yi helped her up. "How are you? How is the baby?"

"Everything is fine." Wu Meiniang led her inside. "The little elephant is very healthy, eating and sleeping well. I have also recovered quite well, thanks to your previous care, Master."

Upon entering the inner room, Wang Yi found the wet nurse holding Li Xiang. She took the child and examined him closely. The infant, just over a month old, was chubby and fair, with features that resembled both Li Chengqian and Wu Zetian.

"He's a lucky child," Wang Yi said softly.

Wu Zetian stood to the side, her eyes full of love: "I only wish that he grows up safe and healthy."

After looking after the children for a while, Wang Yi and Wu Meiniang went to the study to discuss the banquet arrangements. Wu Meiniang had made meticulous preparations, considering everything from seating arrangements and food selection to song and dance performances and guest reception.

However, Wang Yi still pointed out a few points that need attention:

"His Highness Prince Wei and Princess Wei should be seated in a prominent but not overbearing position. This will show respect for the younger brother and clearly demonstrate the Crown Prince's dominant position."

“We must also pay attention to the seating arrangements of the important officials in the court, especially those who have close ties with the King of Wei. We must not let them sit together to avoid the formation of a clique.”

"The song and dance performances at the banquet should be mainly joyful and peaceful, avoiding excessive extravagance to prevent criticism."

Wu Meiniang noted them down one by one: "Your Excellency has considered everything very thoroughly. I will make the adjustments immediately."

"Furthermore," Wang Yi looked at her, "on the day of the banquet, as the Crown Prince's concubine and the mother of your child, you should behave with propriety and grace, but not be too flamboyant. Remember, the main characters of this banquet are your child and the Crown Prince, not you."

These words were both a reminder and a warning. Wu Meiniang understood and solemnly replied, "I understand. I will keep to my duty."

Wang Yi nodded. She knew Wu Meiniang was intelligent and quick to understand.

As Wang Yi was leaving the Eastern Palace, he encountered Prince Li Tai of Wei, who was about to enter the palace, outside the palace gate.

"Is the Master well?" Li Tai bowed respectfully.

"Your Highness, Prince Wei," Wang Yi returned the greeting, "Have you come to discuss the matter of the 'Comprehensive Gazetteer'?"

"Indeed." Li Tai smiled. "The compilation has reached a crucial stage, and I have some questions I would like to ask you, Master. Also, I would like to congratulate my elder brother on the birth of his son."

These words were spoken so tactfully, but Wang Yi could sense the probing in them—he wanted to know Wang Yi's attitude toward the Crown Prince having a son, and the role she played in this banquet.

“It is indeed a joyous occasion for His Highness the Crown Prince to have a son,” Wang Yi said calmly. “We will discuss the matter of the ‘Kuodi Zhi’ in detail after the banquet.”

"Alright, then I won't disturb you any longer." Li Tai bowed and took his leave.

Watching his departing figure, a warning bell rang in Wang Yi's heart. Li Tai's demeanor was impeccable, but she could sense the ambition and scheming hidden beneath his gentle exterior.

The battle for succession has begun.

She, however, must be even more careful in taking each step.

Back at Qixia Garden, Wang Yi spread out paper and pen and began to plan in detail the next course of action.

short term:

1. Ensure that Li Xiang's full moon celebration proceeds smoothly without any mishaps.

2. To complete the guidance work for the compilation of the "Kuodi Zhi" and maintain academic neutrality.

3. Pay attention to the drought situation in Hebei and promote water conservancy projects and drought-resistant crops.

Mid-term:

1. Observe the changes in the relationship between Li Chengqian and Li Tai, and mediate if necessary.

2. Continue to cultivate Wu Zetian, making her a stable support for the Crown Prince.

3. Consolidate one's influence in the government and among the people, and prepare for possible changes.

long:

1. Ensure the continued advancement of various reforms and consolidate the national strength of the Tang Dynasty.

2. Paving the way for the future of his three daughters—whether in modern times or the Tang Dynasty.

3. Maintain a balance between the two worlds to ensure your own safety and that of your children.

At this point, Wang Yi put down his pen and looked out the window.

As the sun sets and twilight descends, night is approaching in the Tang Dynasty, and tomorrow's full moon banquet will be the first public confrontation between the various forces.

She took a deep breath, a determined glint in her eyes.

The game has entered the middle stage, and every move is crucial. And she is ready.

No matter what challenges she faces, she will protect everything she cares about—the stability of the Tang Dynasty, the future of the children, and that connection that transcends time and space.

A gentle night breeze carried the fragrance of distant flowers. Wang Yi closed the window, preparing to face the test to come.