Chapter 183

Chapter 183

Changle’s voice suddenly transformed, revealing a fierceness and determination that Su Li had never witnessed before. “You and Su Che mean everything to me. Anyone who opposes you is my adversary, regardless of their identity!”

After uttering these words, Changle seemed to have exhausted all her strength, her complexion paling. Her suppressed emotions now overflowed, and tears streamed down her face uncontrollably as she cried.

She threw herself into Su Li’s arms, sobbing, and said, “Nevertheless, I hope that we can avoid such a situation if possible...”

As Su Li gently comforted Changle, he experienced a mix of emotions. Changle’s unwavering affection deeply touched him for him, and he felt a profound sense of sorrow.

Changle was right. Growing up in such a family, she couldn’t be oblivious to everything. She was more perceptive than most. Families like Li Er’s were unsettling, even with a superficial understanding. In situations considered unimaginable by ordinary citizens, they could communicate without words.

Though different in many ways, the nine sons of the dragon shared a common title: “Sons of the Dragon.” Despite their young age, individuals like Li Chengqian had earned widespread praise from both the court and the common people. Everyone believed he would become an exemplary ruler in the future.

Compared to Li Ke and Li Tai, whom Su Li had encountered, and considering their age, they were already exceptional individuals. Not to mention Li Zhi, who was quietly growing and developing without drawing much attention.Yôur favorite stories at novelhall.com

The typically gentle and serene Changle could be formidable when she displayed fierceness. Even Gaoyang, who wasn’t particularly intelligent, had reportedly cursed the Emperor and Empress loudly when leaving Changan despite being dragged away by the Silla envoy.

On the other hand, after the New Year, Li Er became busier than in previous years. With the Tang Dynasty’s peace extending to all corners and nations from around the world coming to pay tribute, the court bustled with activity.

External wars yielded victory after victory, and the common people experienced peaceful and prosperous times. However, being a peaceful emperor was not Li Er’s desire. He remained restless, constantly seeking ways to keep himself occupied.

After the Lantern Festival, Li Er sat across from Yuan Tiangang in the same grand hall within the imperial palace. The scent of incense wafted from the desk.

Yuan Tiangang’s expression displayed complexity as he gazed at Li Er. At the beginning of the year, Li Er would summon him to the palace to discuss various matters, ranging from the nation’s state to the fate of newly born imperial princes or princesses.

However, Yuan Tiangang hadn’t anticipated that Li Er would pose such a troubling question this year.

“Sage, do you believe my intentions are improper?” Li Er raised an eyebrow, his expression seemingly like a half-smile.

Yuan Tiangang was shocked. At this moment, Li Er continued slowly, “I am still young and won’t squander the nation’s resources on the elusive path of immortality. My desire for immortality is only for peace of mind.”

Yuan Tiangang’s gaze flickered, and thoughts raced through his mind. Suddenly, he froze. Su Li?

Time passed quickly, and three years flew by. During this period, numerous changes occurred in the Tang Dynasty. After investing significant resources, Li Er successfully pacified the Western Regions. The entire Western Region was now integrated into the Tang Dynasty’s territory. Consequently, the Tang Dynasty had become the largest among all the central dynasties in the history of the land.

Even Wei Zhang, known for his straightforward and critical advice, praised Li Er for this accomplishment. He wrote that the vastness of the Tang Dynasty’s territory surpassed all previous dynasties. When the sun rose in the east of the Tang Dynasty, stars still glittered in the west. And even after the sunset in the east, it continued to shine brightly in the far west.