abcnovels
Chapter 238
Chapter 238
Chapter 238
Li Er believed he had considered Li Chengqian’s viewpoint thoroughly.
“If you prefer, I avoid discussing Su Li’s qualities and accomplishments. I can focus on Li Tai. Would that be acceptable?”
“You both are from the same parents, and Li Tai comprehends these matters. Why can’t you?”
“Chengqian, please take a moment to reflect on this.”
Li Er failed to realize that addressing Su Li directly might have been more effective. Perhaps his lengthy reign as emperor caused him to forget his mindset as Crown Prince.
Li Er remained unaware that his present words were less impactful than speaking directly about Su Li. Perhaps his years as an emperor had caused him to forget his mindset as the Prince of Qin.
Li Er worried someone might become another version of himself. Did Li Chengqian fear becoming another Li Jiancheng? He certainly did, greatly so.
Especially after Li Er’s series of strategic moves, Li Chengqian grew more apprehensive. Just examine the rewards Li Er bestowed upon Li Tai. Were those fitting for a prince?
Li Chengqian harbored resentment towards Li Er. The Emperor made him the Prince of Qin with authority over troops, leaving Crown Prince Li Jiancheng in constant fear, ultimately leading to fratricidal strife.
Now, Li Er treated Li Tai exceedingly well. Did he ever consider his feelings? Over the past three years, Li Chengqian became increasingly reluctant to mention Li Tai publicly.
Li Tai resided in the Wude Hall near the Eastern Palace. While they used to interact frequently, their relationship grew colder. They wouldn’t even exchange greetings when they met.
Li Chengqian felt intense frustration when Li Er praised Li Tai in his presence. “Li Tai again! It’s always Li Tai!” Li Chengqian clenched his teeth in bitterness. He was the rightful Crown Prince, so why did his father favor Li Tai?
He remembered the subtle suggestion Hou Junji made earlier. Initially hesitant, Li Chengqian now firmly embraced it.
“Father, you treated me unfairly first. Don’t blame your son for being unfilial!”
Li Er continued, “Chengqian, no matter what, I hope you and Su Li can live harmoniously. It’s crucial for your future.”
He patted Li Chengqian’s shoulder. “Your son understands. Your Majesty, please watch my actions.” Li Chengqian replied coldly, his lips forming a chilling smile.
Upon returning to the Eastern Palace, Li Chengqian found Hou Junji waiting. “Join me for a private conversation.”
Li Chengqian led Hou Junji into a secluded chamber, his expression stern. “Your Highness, I’ve contacted the leaders of the Five Clans and Seven Noble Families. They are delighted with your intentions and have discreetly sent capable individuals to Changan.”
“I’ve also convinced the Deputy Commander of the Left Guard, Feng Shi, and the Commander of the Left Garrison Guard, Li Anyan, to support us. They’ve secretly brought heavy crossbows and recruited brave assassins.”
“Now, everything is prepared. With one command from Your Highness, we can proceed.”
Hou Junji looked at Li Chengqian with eager anticipation. He never expected to be involved in such a plan when he joined Li Yuan and his sons in their uprising. As the Crown Prince, Su Li had a high position and ties to the royal family, making this a significant undertaking.
Assassinating him, from any angle, would constitute an act of rebellion. Nonetheless, Hou Junji had no remorse for his decision. He was greatly exhilarated at this juncture. Since Su Li gained prominence in the military, Hou Junji had regarded him as his lifelong adversary. Furthermore, the current Su Li had effectively blocked Li Chengqian’s path. If Su Li hadn’t been dealt with, it would have posed a significant threat when Li Chengqian ascended the throne. While plotting this action, Hou Junji did consider Li Er’s views, although he was unwilling to acknowledge them. He understood that Li Er’s stance was less of a threat than Su Li’s presence, especially given Li Er’s growing goodwill towards Wei Wang Li Tai in recent years.
If Li Chengqian refrained from taking any action, it was uncertain whether he could secure the position of Crown Prince. For Li Chengqian, a peculiar rationale had developed. With Su Li’s influence suppressing the power of noble families, they couldn’t offer him substantial support. Without the backing of these noble families, Li Tai might have had an opportunity to seize the Crown Prince position, rendering everything futile.
By eliminating Su Li and garnering the support of noble families, Li Chengqian, as the Crown Prince, would wield formidable power. Even when facing his own father, he would have the confidence to stand his ground. His position as Crown Prince would be as secure as Mount Tai, and no one could undermine it. He might even go a step further and replicate the events of the Xuanwu Gate, making Li Er an Emperor Emeritus. But all of this was subtly suggested by Hou Junji to Li Chengqian, who remained unresponsive.
Deep within Hou Junji’s heart, he fervently hoped that Li Chengqian would be willing to take decisive action. Hou Junji had lived a life of risks, having faced near-death experiences several times while following Li Er in rebellion. Seeking prosperity amidst danger was his long-standing perspective. Even though he had achieved some success, Hou Junji was far from content. The issue was simply too many formidable individuals surrounding Li Er.
In the military, figures like Li Jing, Li Ji, and Li Xiaogong could all overshadow him. Additionally, he and Li Jing had a mentor-student relationship, a fact that the usually proud Hou Junji found intolerable. Why should those who had fought alongside the Emperor at the Xuanwu Gate be elevated to such high positions while he was left behind? If he could support Li Chengqian’s rise, things would be different. If Li Chengqian became the Emperor, Hou Junji would become a duke. With such accomplishments, undoubtedly, he would wield substantial influence in the court. This temptation was simply irresistible to Hou Junji.
“Then let’s commence. Tomorrow, I will send an invitation to Changle Mansion, inviting Princess Changle and Su Li to the Eastern Palace for a feast,” Li Chengqian stated stoically.
“Will they… accept?” Hou Junji inquired with some concern.
Li Chengqian smirked and replied, “My father just spoke to me today about getting closer to Su Li in the future. With his endorsement, I’ll make my move. Knowing Changle as I do, she will undoubtedly attend. And with her presence, Su Li will follow.”
Hou Junji nodded. “If that’s the case, we should begin preparations today.”
In the secrecy of the chamber, silence enveloped them. Despite meticulous planning over an extended period, the moment of execution still brought nervousness to both of them. After a while, Li Chengqian spoke again, slowly.
“A few days ago, you mentioned that we could take further steps after dealing with Su Li. Is that correct?”
Hou Junji was shocked in the darkness, and his excitement surged uncontrollably.