Facing the Medical Academy Directly Chai Shao Recommends Talents

After hearing his request, Sun Simiao cheerfully wrote out another prescription and handed it to him.

At the same time, he said, "This prescription is the result of the joint study of all the physicians at the Academy of Medicine, not the work of one old man alone."

The imperial physician took the prescription and immediately examined it carefully, but as soon as his eyes fell upon it, he let out an exclamation.

He looked up at Sun Simiao in astonishment, then quickly lowered his gaze to scrutinize the prescription once more.

As he read, he murmured to himself, "Marvelous! Marvelous! Absolutely ingenious! I never imagined this remedy could be used to such effect—this truly broadens one’s horizons."

Li Shimin knew nothing of medicine; listening to the physician's words, he merely felt the man was overreacting.

Yet he was unaware that the physician was utterly stunned.

Currently, the standard prescriptions for treating coughs in Great Tang relied chiefly on licorice, ephedra, apricot kernels, and a handful of common ingredients, with additional components tailored by each healer.

But Sun Simiao’s recipe increased the principal medicines to more than ten.

Such a breakthrough would have been unimaginable before the establishment of the Academy of Medicine.

Previously, physicians from various regions could not gather for discussion, nor would anyone easily share their exclusive formulas for collective study.

The imperial physician grew increasingly excited as he perused the prescription.

Finally, he clasped his hands in salute to Sun Simiao and said, "Having seen this wondrous formula, I realize how limited my own knowledge is. Though lacking in talent, I humbly request your permission, Divine Physician, to join the Academy of Medicine."

Sun Simiao replied with a smile, "I welcome you most heartily, and I hope you will encourage your colleagues to participate as well."

The imperial physician said, "When I return, I will surely spread word throughout the Imperial Pharmacy and the Court Medical Bureau. The Academy’s achievements are the very model for our learning."

Seeing the two engrossed in conversation, Li Shimin interrupted, "From your words, it seems the Academy of Medicine has made considerable progress. What level has it reached now?"

Sun Simiao clasped his hands and replied, "Your Majesty, if not for the Academy’s accomplishments, the Prince of Dai would not have long to live today."

Sun Simiao’s words sent a jolt through Li Shimin’s heart.

He asked, somewhat incredulously, "Is it truly so serious?"

Sun Simiao answered, "Your Majesty, I am not exaggerating—the Prince of Dai’s illness is indeed grave."

The imperial physician chimed in, "Your Majesty, I have already spoken of the Prince’s condition, and I have no suitable cure."

Li Shimin, amazed at their words, exclaimed, "So Zhinü’s suggestion has indirectly saved my royal son’s life?"

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Sun Simiao replied, "Yes, Your Majesty. Were it not for the Academy’s founding, I would never have been able to exchange ideas with so many renowned physicians, and my own medical skills alone could not have cured the Prince of Dai."

Li Shimin sighed, "The Academy has existed for merely half a year, yet has achieved such results—truly astonishing."

Empress Zhangsun now spoke, "Your Majesty, since the Academy of Medicine has accomplished so much, you should call upon physicians throughout the realm to join together."

Sun Simiao also said, "I believe that gathering more physicians to exchange knowledge will speed the advancement of medicine in Great Tang."

The Empress’s words perfectly matched Sun Simiao’s own thoughts.

Previously, though he had invited famous physicians from across the land to help establish the Academy, only those truly concerned for the people participated; most were reluctant.

This stemmed both from doubts about the Academy’s prospects, and from the fact that most physicians inherited family traditions and tended to guard their secrets jealously.

If Li Shimin were to issue a decree in the name of the state, many with unique skills might be drawn to join.

The Academy’s achievements would then grow more remarkable.

Listening to them, Li Shimin nodded, "This is a matter of benefit to both nation and people—I should indeed make a broad appeal."

Sun Simiao said, "Your Majesty, why not recruit students for the Academy as well? That will help spread medical knowledge far and wide."

Li Shimin’s eyes brightened, "The Divine Physician speaks truly. No matter how splendid the progress of medicine, it must be passed on. I shall return and draft an edict at once—Great Tang’s medicine must flourish!"

Although Li Shimin had previously approved the Academy’s establishment, he had not placed much importance on it.

But today’s events had shaken him profoundly, even causing him to feel a lingering dread.

After all, had he not agreed to found the Academy, he might well have lost a son.

Li Shimin comforted Concubine Lin with a few reassuring words, then promptly returned to the Hall of Supreme Harmony.

From this day forward, the Academy of Medicine of Great Tang truly entered a phase of rapid development.

At that moment, Li Zhi was unaware that his suggestion had indirectly saved his brother’s life.

He was receiving two important guests at his residence.

Both were family: one was his uncle, Chief General of the Left Wing Guard, Chai Shao; the other was Chai Shao’s younger brother, Chai Long.

Once seated, Li Zhi took the initiative, "Uncle, may I ask what brings you here today?"

Chai Shao replied, "I am here to recommend someone to you."

He gestured toward the man beside him, "This brother of mine was taught by a master from childhood; his skills are extraordinary."

---

He glanced toward the door before continuing, "I noticed you have no trustworthy protector at your side, so I wish to introduce him to you."

Following Chai Shao’s gaze, Li Zhi looked at Chai Long.

Chai Long was considerably younger than his brother, appearing to be in his twenties.

Though not particularly handsome, he had thick brows and large eyes, his face brimming with vigor.

Upon closer examination, Li Zhi noticed a trace of pride in his expression, likely stemming from his confidence in his martial arts.

Li Zhi smiled at Chai Long, "Since uncle is family, there’s no need for formality. Might I see your skills demonstrated?"

Chai Long responded with a proud smile, "Why not? Your Highness, please follow me to the courtyard."

Li Zhi rose, smiling, "Uncle, after you."

With that, he walked out into the large courtyard.

Chai Long entered the courtyard and took a moment to loosen his limbs.

Then, before Li Zhi, he launched into a series of martial moves.

Li Zhi, though ignorant of martial arts, could tell that Chai Long’s boxing was vigorous and fierce, his movements highly practiced.

Just as Li Zhi was watching with interest, Chai Long suddenly let out a sharp cry.

To Li Zhi’s amazement, Chai Long pressed his feet against the ground and sprang directly onto a large tree by the path.

He now stood at least two meters, nearly three, above the ground.

Using both hands and feet, he swiftly climbed to a fork in the tree.

As Li Zhi was still analyzing his intention, Chai Long lightly leapt and landed effortlessly on the ground.

Li Zhi was even more astonished, for that branch had been more than six meters high.

He could hardly believe someone could jump down from such a height without losing balance.

Almost reflexively, Li Zhi let out an exclamation, "Whoa!"