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.
Objectively speaking, facing the unpredictable factor of Su Li, Li Er himself felt a natural fear and a desire to counterbalance it. As the ruler of the Tang Empire, Li Er had always been confident in his abilities, but Su Li’s power made him uneasy. Even an emperor sought to safeguard his best assets when needed, fostering a harmonious relationship between ruler and ministers.
However, Su Li’s strength was so overwhelming that it surpassed Li Er’s expectations. Li Er had been searching for a way to balance Su Li for three years but found nothing. Su Li’s martial prowess alone could threaten the emperor’s life, rendering a hundred thousand imperial guards powerless.
Fortunately, Su Li had connections, particularly with Li Er’s daughter. Their marital bond and their son’s existence bound Su Li to some extent. Without these ties, Li Er wouldn’t even have the standing to negotiate with Su Li. This power disparity was undeniable.
Yet, Li Chengqian couldn’t grasp these nuances. If he understood better, he might not have rebelled, and his position as crown prince might not have been revoked. In reality, Li Er had high hopes for Li Chengqian, but Li Chengqian failed to see the depth of his father’s care.
Even though Li Chengqian had a disability and was a homosexual in history, Li Er never deposed him as the crown prince. For Li Chengqian, ascending to the throne was relatively simple. He needed only to cultivate himself, wait for Li Er’s passing, and inherit the throne as the legitimate eldest son with the support of his uncle, Zhangsun Wuji.
Li Chengqian’s predicament was largely of his own making. So, he didn’t fully comprehend these matters nor see Su Li. “Is the Tang Dynasty’s glory and wealth incomplete without your Su Li?” Li Chengqian countered Li Er’s question. “Su Li has received immense favor from the emperor! He was granted a noble title and rewards for his achievements, setting a precedent in our empire. Hasn’t the emperor’s favor been abundant enough? The princess’s residence expenses have continually risen, and the gifts from the emperor, like silks, satins, and gold and silver treasures, are substantial. The fertile land under the princess’s residence is extensive. Isn’t all of this adequate? Why does Su Li have the right to interfere in royal affairs?” Li Chengqian challenged Li Er, his conviction unwavering.
From Li Chengqian’s perspective, he had valid points. Su Li had achieved remarkable feats, and Li Er had fulfilled his promises, even if not with complete sincerity. The rewards bestowed upon Su Li were substantial regarding wealth, valuable fabrics, and land.
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.