"Speaking of which, there's another joyous occasion today," Li Shimin said as he embraced Empress Zhangsun.
"What brings such joy?"
"Today, Xiao Chong from the Xiao Family offered an incredibly powerful firecracker. If used well, it can be very useful for attacking cities, blasting roads, and mining. It's truly a great fortune for my realm to have such a talented person."
"Congratulations, Second Brother! Could it be that morning thunder noise?" Empress Zhangsun asked with a smile.
"Indeed, were you frightened by it?"
Empress Zhangsun shook her head and asked again, "Is Xiao Chong the grandson of our cousin? That young boy who lost his mother early?"
"Yes, that's him."
Empress Zhangsun sighed, "This child has had it tough, losing his mother at such a young age. I'm sure he's suffered a lot. I remember he volunteered to be stationed outside the city last year, didn't he?"
