At this point, Li Er was far from being the Heavenly Khan who united various tribes to pay tribute. To be honest, the state of the Tang Dynasty in the fourth year of the Zhenguan era was not particularly stable. Despite the Tang Dynastys military strength extending to various regions, with numerous frontier commanderies established around the periphery
Many barbarian tribes didnt truly respect the empire, fearing the Tangs military might. In the years following Li Ers declaration as emperor, the Tang Dynastys military campaigns had been relentless.
Not only dealing with enemies like the Turks but also facing internal challenges like Li Yis and Liang Shidus rebellions, Li Er had little respite in these years. Nevertheless, Li Er had never been one to fear any adversary.
He sometimes longed for enemies to combat, as he felt somewhat lonely without them. With the defeat of the Eastern Turks last year, Li Er restored his reputation after the humiliation of the Wei River Treaty.
Using the success of this battle, he regained control over the realm. This year, the Tang Dynasty was unusually peaceful, which Li Er found somewhat unfamiliar. At times, he even wished for dissenting individuals so he could prove himself through achievements.
And not to mention, now that he knew Su Li possessed the potential to become an unparalleled general. With such a son-in-law, it seemed wasteful not to deploy him in battle. Considering all these factors, Li Er unknowingly became deeply engrossed in these matters.
The next morning
Early in the morning, Li Er, who had a restless night, just woke up and headed towards the Princess Mansion.
Your Majesty, the princess, and the consort have just woken up and are getting ready.
Upon hearing the report from the female attendant, Li Er glanced at the already high sun and frowned.
However, the fact that even though they had been married for four months, Changle had been bedridden during this time was understandable.
But why did thinking about this make him even more displeased?
Li Er waved his hand impatiently, indicating for the female attendant to assist Su Li and Princess Changle while he waited in a gazebo in the courtyard.
After sitting for a while, Li Er suddenly heard a thunderous snort from the neighboring courtyard.
Is that a horse snorting? Li Er looked puzzled.
Having been on the battlefield for many years and having ridden countless horses, he had developed an eye for assessing horses. Leaving other aspects aside, just from the sound of this snort, Li Er could tell that this horse was extraordinary. Like muffled thunder, the sound was strong and powerful, indicating significant energy.
For a horse, possessing such an aura suggested incredible explosive power. Any horse with strong explosive power would be highly regarded on the battlefield.
Well, he had some spare time anyway. After consideration, Li Er walked towards the neighboring yard with deliberate steps.
Passing through a small gate, he saw the adjacent courtyard transformed into a stable. No, it could not be called a stable anymore.
The entire yard was covered with hay sheds and designated areas for feeding and watering the horse. There were also hay mats to prevent the horses hooves from wearing down on the stone road. The most surprising thing was that there was only one horse in this vast area!
Seeing this, even the experienced Li Er couldnt help but be amazed.
What kind of horse was this?
I had never been this extravagant!
Then, his attention naturally turned to the horse in the yard. Tall and imposing, completely white without a hint of blemish. At first sight, Li Er couldnt look away from the magnificent creature before him.
Based on its appearance, this horse far surpassed the six horses he had ridden.
This must be the legendary miraculous white horse that the princess mentioned. Truly a divine steed! Li Er smiled, lost in thought.
Under the excitement, he couldnt resist approaching the white dragon. At this moment, the white dragon was taking shelter under a tree.
Seeing an unfamiliar person entering the yard, there was a touch of human-like curiosity in its large eyes. Recalling Su Lis warning the day before, White Dragon restrained its temper and emitted a displeased snort.
Li Er was engrossed in touching the horse, thoroughly enjoying the experience. Suddenly, the loud snort from White Dragon startled Li Er.
With a smile on his face, he nodded in satisfaction.
This is indeed the magical white horse the young princess mentioned. It truly lives up to the legend! Li Ers excitement was evident.
Li Er didnt understand horse language and completely missed the warning that the White Dragons snort conveyed. On the contrary, as someone who loved horses, encountering such a magnificent horse ignited a desire to try riding it. However, this horse had no harness. For Li Er, this wasnt an issue at all.
He caressed the horses head with one hand and placed the other on its back, attempting to use his strength to mount the horse and give it a try.
Li Ers strength was remarkable, and he was audacious. In his eyes, there was no horse he couldnt ride. Unfortunately, the White Dragon wasnt just any horse!
Li Ers action provoked it entirely.
Want to touch me? Not to mention, youre trying to ride me? White Dragon thought.
This was the last straw for White Dragon.
With a swift movement of its back, Li Er, who was mid-mount, lost his leverage. He felt like he had been struck by a cart from two directions, and his whole body trembled.
His spine trembled, and he felt he could only use about a third of his strength. He fell off the horse.
Luckily, Li Ers martial arts skills were extraordinary, and he landed firmly on the ground, avoiding embarrassment. However, before he could celebrate his fortunate landing, he felt a pain in his chest and staggered backward, eventually falling to the ground.
Seated on the ground, Li Er watched the white horse serenely retract its left front hoof.
A horse actually knocked me down?
Li Er muttered and expressed disbelief, staring blankly at the White Dragon.