Chapter 130:

Chapter 130:

In the Tang Dynasty, his family considered a mans departure for battle extremely honorable. Regardless of any conflicts they might have had, during times of war, the whole family would bid farewell under the guidance of the households matriarch.

Changle understood that, even as a princess, she couldnt let her emotions ruin this honor. However, the thought of being separated from her husband was causing her immense pain.

After crying for a while, Changle appeared emotionally drained. Su Li tried to console her for a while, and eventually, she drifted into a deep sleep.

Late at night, Li Er put down his brush in the palace and suddenly felt restless. Maintain composure in the face of significant matters!

As the ruler of the nation, he dealt with weighty affairs daily. Logically, Li Er should have attained a level of emotional resilience where even the collapse of Mount Tai would not disturb him. However, since Su Lis departure earlier today, Li Er became increasingly agitated.

He kept wondering, what decision would Su Li make?

Of course, Li Er hoped that Su Li would agree. After all, Li Er wasnt irrational.

Facing an aggressive foreign power like Tubo, capable of invading and conquering their land, why should they resort to a diplomatic marriage?

This matter of diplomatic marriage, no matter how much benefit it might bring, was ultimately not honorable.

Marriage to a foreign country?

It was just something that sounded good, but really, what good would it do for Li Er to marry off a princess from the royal family?

Counting on Li Jings group of veteran generals seemed to be futile. But if Su Li agreed to go on the expedition, he was confident of victory.

Li Er would undoubtedly keep his promise, just as he assured Su Li, giving him whatever he asked for without question.

In the evening, a female officer from the princesss household came personally to request a full map of the Great Tang Dynasty from Li Er on behalf of Su Li.

Since then, Li Ers anxiety had grown even more.

On that day, Li Er once again visited the Princess Mansion. After visiting Changle, he immediately pulled Su Li aside.

How have you been considering the Tubo matter? Li Er asked with an air of calmness, although he was quite anxious.

Su Li glanced towards the room and then replied with some hesitation, Your Majesty, Changle is about to give birth. At this time, I really dont have the mental capacity to think about other matters.

Li Er gave a cold snort, assuming the role of a stern father-in-law, and admonished, A brave man aspires to great deeds in all directions. Focus on making achievements! Changle is my daughter, and I care for her no less than you do. What is there for you to worry about at home?

Su Li looked at Li Er strangely, thinking, Your Majesty, even though what youre saying makes sense, imagine this, once my child is born, Changle would undoubtedly want the childs first sight to be me, not your imposing face.

While his thoughts lingered in this direction, Su Li couldnt voice them, so he kept quiet.

Li Er, noticing Su Lis lack of response, felt compelled to continue the conversation. Youre incredibly talented, and I also dont want to waste your skills. I trust you enough to wonder why youre hesitating.

Seeing Su Lis unresponsive expression, still unreadable as ever, Li Er couldnt hold back any longer. Clenching his teeth, he continued, Although theres no precedent in the Great Tang for titles outside the royal family, you are Changles husband and my son-in-law. If your accomplishments are significant enough, I might even consider granting you a title from a different lineage!

These words were spoken openly, almost a semi-public declaration. After all, one didnt joke about these matters. Considering the people present, if even one of them had a loose tongue, it wouldnt be long before the whole of Changan knew about it. Li Er was truly getting anxious.

However, Su Li didnt react, maintaining his expressionless demeanor, much to Li Ers frustration. Having spent so much time with Li Er, Su Li had become immune to Li Ers sugar-coated cannonballs.

After listening to Li Ers plea, Su Lis thoughts were clear. Your Majesty, even though your words seem sincere, I wouldnt believe them for a second.

He knew that political creatures were rarely straightforward, especially not at the level of the emperor, who was often thick-skinned and shrewd.

Li Ers statement appeared sincere on the surface, but Su Li didnt believe into it. The emperor held the ultimate authority in determining what achievements were substantial enough to warrant the promised reward.

In Su Lis view, Li Ers intentions were no different from dangling a carrot in front of a donkey. This time, Youve achieved something, but its not enough. Achieve more, and then well talk.

Su Li realized that if he fell into this trap, it might never end. Thus, he decided to remain silent, leaving Li Er to his own thoughts.nove(l)bi(n.)com