Chapter 189

In truth, Li Chengqian had highly complex feelings towards Su Li, especially now that he found himself in a challenging situation. His father, Li Shimin, seemed to favor his fourth son, Li Tai, more than him. Unlike three years ago, when Li Chengqian thought Su Li wasn’t suitable for his sister, Princess Changle, Su Li’s achievements became increasingly impressive.

However, Li Chengqian, the eldest son, had experienced the Xuanwu Gate tragedy and lacked proper guidance from Li Er during his adolescence, leading to constant pressure. This pressure seemed to increase due to Su Li’s presence and Li Er’s efforts to address the Su Li issue over the past three years, causing Li Chengqian to grow rebellious.

On one hand, Li Chengqian saw himself as the future heir to the Tang Dynasty’s throne, even though he hadn’t ascended it yet, which made him more serious about imperial authority. These factors culminated in a deep resentment towards Su Li, especially when he felt that Su Li was starting to threaten imperial authority. Even his seemingly all-powerful father showed indulgence and helplessness towards Su Li.

“Father Emperor!” Li Chengqian stared directly at Li Er, clenching his fists. “Su Li is disrespecting imperial authority,” he seethed in frustration. In his eyes, the throne was within reach, and anyone became a target of his hostility, including his fourth brother, Li Tai, who threatened imperial authority. In fact, in history, Li Chengqian had even attempted rebellion.

“Be silent!” Li Er slammed the table and yelled, his gaze reflecting scrutiny and hesitation. “Do you comprehend the great deeds accomplished by Su Li?” Li Er’s tone was heavy. He sensed his son’s hatred towards Su Li, a common reaction when one seeks to protect their position, especially for the crown prince, Li Chengqian.

But Li Chengqian overlooked something crucial. These rewards were attainable for Su Li and didn’t necessarily diminish Su Li’s ambitions or influence. “Fool! Can’t you see the situation clearly by now?” Li Er stood up and scolded Li Chengqian in frustration.

“Father... I... I’m only doing it for the honor of the royal family...” Li Chengqian’s face displayed a mixture of frustration and confusion.

“Enough! I forbid you from leaving the Eastern Palace for a month. During this month, you are not permitted to step outside!” Li Er turned around, giving Li Chengqian a stern look.

“Father...” Li Chengqian wanted to explain further, but Li Er had already turned and departed.

The royal family’s honor? What honor could Li Er bring up in front of Su Li? Although Li Er was confident in himself, he was also rational. Mentioning the royal family’s honor to Su Li? Su Li likely didn’t care about his supposed royal status.

What was truly reassuring was that Su Li cared about Changle, about being a husband. Otherwise, the present Su Li wouldn’t be easy to deal with. Li Er understood this very well. Su Li’s remarkable achievements were like positive signs. His campaign in the northwest had doubled the Tang Empire’s territory, not to mention the introduction of crops like sweet potatoes and potatoes that significantly improved people’s lives. Even his claim of bringing the White Jade Capital back to the mortal realm!

Could the so-called prestige of the royal family achieve any of these things? Despite Su Li’s strength as a one-man army, facing these accomplishments would likely require flattery and appeasement.