Though the Tang's victory feast had ended, the joy of triumph lingered in Chang'an like spring sunshine. The towering city walls glowed with ancient dignity under the sun, while streets bustled with lanterns and laughter. People, relieved to have survived turmoil, looked to the future with hope.
Emperor Li Yi sat in the grand palace, gazing through carved windows at the city's vibrant life. He knew long-term stability required more than military victory—it demanded robust economic growth. In the quiet Royal Study, Li Yi gathered talents, discussing state affairs with ministers. Piles of memorials, reflecting regional realities from people's lives to economic trends, covered most of his desk. Frowning, he read each carefully, deep in thought, as advisors debated passionately around him, shaping policies through clashes of ideas—from agricultural improvements to commercial expansion, tax reforms to deeper foreign engagement.
Days later, a series of economic policies were announced. In agriculture, Li Yi decreed incentives for reclaiming wasteland, offering subsidies and support to farmers. Experienced agricultural officials were sent to promote new crop varieties and advanced techniques. Meanwhile, top artisans crafted efficient farm tools, which sparked excitement when distributed. Farmers tested the tools in fields, watching the soil turn easily, envisioning bountiful harvests with satisfied smiles.
In commerce, Li Yi lowered taxes to boost vitality, designating commercial zones in major cities, regulating markets, and cracking down on fraud. News spread like wildfire, attracting merchants nationwide and abroad to Chang'an. The capital's markets thrived with shops, stalls, and foreign traders, their languages and attire adding to the bustle as they bartered for Tang specialties like silk, porcelain, and tea.
While Li Yi focused on economic reform, Lin Yue worked tirelessly for the people. Visiting neighborhoods, she witnessed street performers struggling in poverty and farmers worrying over taxes. Deeply moved, she convened peers at her clinic to discuss initiatives: establishing public granaries to store surplus grain in good years for famine relief, repairing roads to facilitate trade, and launching free clinic days for the poor. These ideas, compiled into a memorial, were praised by Li Yi and swiftly implemented.
Public granaries were built, with citizens gladly contributing surplus grain as a safety net. Road repairs transformed rough paths into smooth, busy thoroughfares, aiding commerce and travel. On free clinic days, Lin Yue led her team, offering gentle diagnoses and prescriptions, her warm smile reassuring patients like winter sunshine.
As Li Yi's policies and Lin Yue's initiatives took effect, the Tang economy flourished. Farmers reaped bumper harvests, exporting surplus grain for wealth. Commerce thrived, making Chang'an a global hub where cultures mingled. People's lives improved: the poor accessed free healthcare, roads eased travel, and stable prices brought contentment—children played in streets, elders chatted peacefully, a scene of harmony.
Yet challenges arose. Aristocrats and wealthy merchants, resisting policy changes that threatened their privileges, hoarded goods, spread rumors, and disrupted markets. Some officials, incompetent or corrupt, misapplied policies, causing public mistrust. Li Yi and Lin Yue acted swiftly: Li Yi reasoned with nobles, promising fair treatment and new opportunities, while strengthening oversight and punishing corrupt officials. Lin Yue engaged citizens door-to-door, clarifying policy goals and addressing concerns, gradually winning support.
Through perseverance, the reforms succeeded, further advancing the Tang's economy and livelihoods. Li Yi and Lin Yue earned heartfelt loyalty, their stories becoming cherished legends. Standing at the era's forefront, they vowed to continue striving for a more prosperous and harmonious Tang, writing its glorious chapter with dedication.