My father, Li Shimin, requests Your Majesty to become the Retired Emperor.

Faced with Su Wan's praise,

Xue Rengui bowed again: "Your Highness, you flatter me."

Our Great Tang Dynasty is teeming with talented people; there are many whose martial arts skills surpass mine.

This time,

"If I can successfully participate in the martial arts examination, I won't care about the ranking; as long as I can serve as a common soldier under the Crown Prince, I will be content."

Su Wan was very satisfied with Xue Rengui's performance.

Some people, having just a little bit of skill, think they're incredibly great and look down on everyone else.

Xue Rengui was a top-notch martial artist, yet he was extremely humble—a truly rare and admirable quality.

Su Wan crossed her arms and said slowly, "For a country to prosper,

The most important thing is to have talented people to help.

This allows truly talented and capable people to realize their ambitions.

Replace those who lack talent and rise to power through nepotism, and discard them.

It would be a huge disaster for a country to allow mediocre people to occupy high positions.

The most typical example is the State of Wei during the Warring States period.

at first,

Marquis Wen of Wei was good at recognizing and employing people.

He appointed Li Kui as prime minister and implemented reforms.

He also promoted and gave important positions to Wu Qi, Yue Yang, Ximen Bao, Zhai Huang, and Zixia, which enabled the State of Wei to become the first among the states to become powerful and a hegemon.

In particular, the Wei Wuzu, established by Wu Qi, was brave and skilled in battle, and repeatedly defeated the Qin state.

If Marquis Wen of Wei had lived longer, the State of Wei might have even had the potential to conquer the entire country.

but,

After Marquis Wen of Wei died, he was succeeded by seven rulers in succession: Marquis Wu of Wei, King Hui of Wei, King Xiang of Wei, King Zhao of Wei, King Anli of Wei, King Jingmin of Wei, and King Jia of Wei.

Unfortunately, these seven monarchs were progressively worse than their predecessors.

They were poor judges of character, jealous of talent and ability; those with ideals, ambitions, and talent were not given important positions in the State of Wei.

Many talented people from the State of Wei left for other countries.

among them,

Wu Qi went to the State of Chu, Sun Bin went to the State of Qi, and Shang Yang, Fan Sui, Zhang Yi, and others went to the State of Qin.

Most critically, Sun Bin, seeking revenge, led the Qi army to decisively defeat the Wei army at Guiling and Maling.

Since then,

The State of Wei never recovered and lost its strength to contend for supremacy.

finally,

Qin general Wang Ben diverted the Yellow River to flood Daliang, and King Jia of Wei surrendered to Qin, leading to the fall of the Wei state.

From this, we can see that the most fundamental reason for the decline of the State of Wei was the loss of talent.

The reason why the Qin state was able to become powerful was because its rulers were particularly good at recognizing and employing talent.

Starting with Duke Xiao of Qin, the rulers of Qin were all very hardworking, and each generation was stronger than the last.

Duke Xiao of Qin issued an edict seeking talented individuals, offering them land as a reward for anyone who could help Qin become stronger.

Upon learning this news, Shang Yang traveled from Wei to Qin.

Duke Xiao of Qin spoke with Shang Yang several times, and Duke Xiao believed that Shang Yang was a rare talent.

Ultimately, the Qin government appointed Shang Yang to implement reforms, which transformed the Qin army into a formidable force, invincible in every battle.

After Shang Yang

Subsequently, Fan Sui, Zhang Yi, Lü Buwei, and Li Si served the Qin state.

The rulers of Qin were all very hardworking and attached great importance to the use of talent.

There were still differences between the states of Qin and Wei.

The different attitudes of the rulers towards talented individuals directly led to the ebb and flow of power between the states of Qin and Wei.

The once powerful state of Wei grew weaker and weaker, while the once impoverished and weak state of Qin gradually became stronger.

It was inevitable that the Qin state would be able to unify the six states.

After listening, everyone felt that Su Wan's analysis was very insightful.

Su Wan picked up her teacup, took a small sip, and continued, "During the Three Kingdoms period..."

Comparatively speaking, Cao Wei was much stronger, while Shu Han was confined to a corner of the country and its overall national strength could not compare with Cao Wei.

One of the main reasons was Cao Cao's ability to recognize and utilize talent.

The Cao Wei state had many talented people, such as Xun Yu, Xun You, Guo Jia, Cheng Yu, and Jia Xu, who served as strategists under Cao Cao.

The military generals included Xu Chu, Dian Wei, Zhang Liao, Xu Huang, Yue Jin, Li Dian, Cao Ren, Cao Hong, Xiahou Dun, and Xiahou Yuan.

It can be said that there are many strategists, many generals, and a wealth of talent.

Cao Cao understood the strengths of each of them well, knew how to appoint the right people to the right positions, and maximized their enthusiasm.

Looking back at Shu Han, after the deaths of Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, Huang Zhong, Ma Chao, and Zhao Yun, there was no one to succeed them.

In the end, they could only use Liao Hua as the vanguard, and the only general they could rely on was Wei Yan.

but,

Zhuge Liang said that Wei Yan had a rebellious streak, and he wanted to use him but was also afraid that he would rebel.

Therefore,

It is not surprising that Shu Han was the first to be destroyed by Jin.

After listening to Su Wan's analysis, everyone nodded in agreement.

original,

Xue Rengui thought Su Wan was just a woman of outstanding beauty, but he didn't expect that Su Wan was well-versed in classics and history.

He knows all about those historical events.

Li Chengan, holding the document, smiled at everyone and said, "This time, we escaped unscathed thanks to everyone's great help. I am extremely grateful."

From this day forward, I will be able to work with you all.

I was very happy.

However, what is worrying is that Zhang Shigui suffered a loss.

He definitely won't let this go once he gets back.

Li Daozong is his son-in-law, how could he not speak up for him?

and,

Zhang Shigui's eldest son, Zhang Zhilong, is going to take the martial arts exam; there must be something fishy going on behind the scenes.

Xue Rengui sat up straight: "Your Highness, I have fought with Zhang Zhilong. His martial arts skills are mediocre. I did not see anything special about him."

If he were to participate in the martial arts exam, it's really hard to imagine what kind of good results he could achieve.

Li Chengqian's gaze swept over everyone: "That's the problem. How can someone with ordinary martial arts skills dare to participate in the martial arts exam? There must be something fishy going on."

Qin Ying pulled out her breasts:

"Your Highness, you don't need to think so much. It's his choice not to participate in the martial arts exam."

If he dares to go, and he encounters me on the field,

I knocked him down with a few punches and kicks.

This time, I'm going to beat him to a pulp.

Li Chengan looked at Qin Ying and asked, "What, are you going to participate in this martial arts examination?"

"Oh, is that not allowed?"

Back when I was learning martial arts at Shaolin, I rarely encountered a worthy opponent.

This martial arts exam is a great opportunity for me to make my mark, how could I miss it?

My dad always says I'm a disappointment, but this time, I'm going to prove him wrong and show him what I'm made of.

"If you were to go on stage and encountered Xue Rengui, what would you do?"

"Do you think you're his match?" Li Chenggan was also intentionally trying to suppress Qin Ying.

"Well, it depends on what we're comparing."

Xue Rengui's halberd weighs 300 jin (approximately 150 catties). If we were to compete in a weapons contest, I probably wouldn't be his match.

but,

If it were a hand-to-hand combat contest, I think I might have a chance to beat him.

Xue Rengui quickly said modestly, "Qin Ying, you don't need to be so modest. I've heard that you are incredibly strong and skilled in martial arts, and that you follow a fierce and powerful style. I've long wanted to learn from you, and I hope you can teach me sometime."

Upon hearing this, Qin Ying waved his hand and said, "No problem, no problem. From now on, we'll both be working under the Crown Prince. If you want to ask me for advice, there will be plenty of opportunities. Just buy me a drink."

Everyone laughed when they heard him say that.

Li Chengan hosted a banquet for everyone, and the drinking lasted until late at night before it finally ended.

Everyone went back to their rooms to rest.

Li Chengan ordered his men to tidy up the room again and to make the fire in the stove burn even brighter.

Su Wan took a hot shower in her room, and then, wearing a green silk nightgown, went to Li Chengqian's room.

After Su Wan entered the room, she closed the door, leaving only Li Chengan and herself in the room.

By the light of the lamp, Li Chengan observed that Su Wan had grown even more beautiful, truly like a lotus emerging from the water.

Her skin was fair and smooth, like solidified cream; her face resembled egg white, and if you pinched it, it seemed as if you could squeeze water out of it.

Su Wan's figure has become increasingly upright and curvaceous, a far cry from what it used to be. She is now elegant, graceful, and refined.

To say she is one in a million would not be an exaggeration at all.

Su Wan suddenly threw herself into Li Chengqian's arms.

Li Chengan then put his arm around her waist.

Su Wan's waist was extremely slender, like a willow branch.

Just the right amount of flesh to hold in one hand

Su Wan trembled, let out a soft moan, and collapsed into Li Chengqian's arms.

A faint, pleasant fragrance wafted into Li Chengqian's nostrils, refreshing and delightful.

When Li Chengan saw how beautiful and charming Su Wan was, his heart was also stirred.

Li Chenggan thought to himself that ever since Su Wan got engaged to him, she hadn't had a single day of peace.

She was constantly worried about herself.

Whether he was fighting in the Western Regions or going to the Wa Kingdom to mediate relations between the Wa Kingdom, Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla,

Su Wan always did her best to support herself.

If it weren't for Su Wan's support, would I be where I am today?

Su Wan has a very strong learning ability and is skilled in technology-based farming.

They reclaimed a lot of wasteland in the Zhongnan Mountains and planted hybrid rice, wheat, as well as cash crops such as potatoes and strawberries.

Before she knew it, Su Wan had also learned greenhouse cultivation techniques.

She often went to the fields herself to work and personally guided the migrant workers.

Su Wan then opened a large Su Family Supermarket, which became the leading supermarket in Chang'an City.

Making money is so hard these days.

but,

Su Wan never gets discouraged or complains; she always tries her best to run the supermarket well.

The Su family supermarket had the best business in the entire Chang'an city.

Of course,

Su Wan also had her own special skill: knocking on a bamboo bar.

She had knocked on Li Tai's bamboo pole more than once.

Li Tai's family is wealthy and he has plenty of money.

It was precisely because of Su Wan's support that

Only Li Chenggan could afford to support the 10,000-strong cavalry led by Ashina She'er.

Only then could they win over Hegan Chengji, Zhang Shizheng, and Ashina Jieshe.

Only then could they enjoy a high reputation and status in the countries surrounding the Tang Dynasty.

Even Murong Shun of Tuyuhun, Songtsen Gampo of Tibet, and Kim Deokman of Silla all held Li Chenggan in high esteem and admiration.

This year,

How can you succeed without the ability?

Therefore,

Li Chengan felt extremely grateful to Su Wan.

Li Chengan gently pushed Su Wan away and placed his hands on her shoulders.

Su Wan was lying in Li Chengqian's arms, her eyes slightly closed, her face flushed with embarrassment.

She was still waiting for Li Chengan to kiss her.

Unexpectedly, Li Chengan faltered at the crucial moment, resorting to his old trick of avoiding the main issue once again.

Su Wan opened her eyes, her beautiful gaze fixed on Li Chenggan, and asked, "Your Highness, why did you stop?"

Li Chenggan blushed: "Wan'er, it's so late, why aren't you resting? Why have you come to my room? Is there something you want to tell me?"

Although Su Wan felt somewhat disappointed, she did have some things to say to Li Chenggan.

Su Wan gently stroked her temples: "The New Year is almost here, and the weather is so cold..."

Should we send Ashina She'er's army some more cotton-padded clothes, quilts, and shoes to keep them warm, as well as wine and meat?

It's very cold there.

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan thought Su Wan's suggestion was excellent: "You're absolutely right. Didn't we send over a batch of clothes a while ago?"

"We did send some over, but that's not enough."

Li Chenggan frowned: "But preparing those things must cost a lot of money, right?"

Su Wan smiled and said, "You don't need to worry about that. I've already prepared the money."

Li Chengan patted Su Wan on the shoulder: "You really are a money tree."

Su Wan smiled and asked, "Really?"

Li Chengqian laughed and said, "Let me put it this way: you are the most capable person in our Tang Dynasty at making money."

"Don't try to fool me."

"Has anything happened in Chang'an these past few days?"

Su Wan rested her chin on her hand: "I heard that your father issued two imperial decrees."

"Oh, what decree did Father Emperor issue?"

"Firstly, your father agreed to let Consort Yang move into Jiucheng Palace; "

Secondly, your father has already promised Consort Yang that Tuyuhun would be ceded to Prince Li Ke of Shu.

Upon hearing this,

Li Chenggan was somewhat surprised and asked, "Why would Father Emperor issue such an edict at this time?"

"I'm not entirely sure what the specific reason is."

I heard that Wei Zheng expressed his opposition.

But your father said, how can orders be changed so frequently?

They were unwilling to withdraw those two imperial edicts.

Li Chenggan looked up and thought for a moment, then said, "I suppose Father has his reasons and logic for doing this."

Su Wan shook her head: "If I remember correctly, Jiucheng Palace was completed on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month."

Grand Secretary Fang Xuanling made it very clear at the completion ceremony that whether they were concubines, princes, or princesses in the harem, they had to make outstanding contributions and perform exceptionally well in order to live in Jiucheng Palace.

So, what outstanding contributions did Consort Yang make?

Li Chenggan crossed his arms and thought for a long time, but still couldn't figure out the reason: "If Consort Yang wants to live in Jiucheng Palace, then let her live there. What difference does it make where she lives?"

"Your Highness, you are really wrong. Living in Jiucheng Palace is a symbol of status and identity, and it is no small matter."

For example, if you live in the East Palace, can other princes also live in the East Palace?

"Well—," Li Chengan paused, "the situation is different."

"In my opinion, there are some differences, but the principle is the same. Moving into the Eastern Palace means becoming the Crown Prince and inheriting the throne in the future."

No other prince was allowed to live in the East Palace. Not only were they forbidden from living there, but they were also forbidden from living in the Wude Hall next to the East Palace.

Consort Yang not only had no merits, but also had faults.

I don't know why your father issued such an edict.

Furthermore, it was you who risked your life to subdue Tuyuhun.

and,

Murong Shun and you have a very good relationship. He respects and admires you greatly. Logically speaking,

You should have been given Tuyuhun instead.

Li Tai has 22 states, and if you add the Dangxiang, that makes 23 states.

Li Ke was in charge of eight states.

But you? You have only the empty title of Crown Prince.

They don't have their own territory.

Although you live in Chang'an, is Chang'an yours?

Chang'an belongs to your father, what does it have to do with you?

Therefore,

Your father is very biased.

Your father's love for Li Tai has surpassed that for you.

Currently, aside from not being the crown prince in name, Li Tai...

others,

He's no different from the Crown Prince.

You founded the Chongwen Academy, and he has the Literature Academy.

If it weren't for Wei Zheng's opposition, Li Tai would probably have already moved into the Wude Hall.

The Wude Hall and the East Palace are right next to each other.

and also,

I heard from others that...

Your father has praised Li Ke as being like himself, and has publicly praised Li Ke more than once.

So,

What did your father mean by saying that?

Does he want Li Ke to become the crown prince?

Upon hearing this,

Li Chengqian laughed and said, "If that's really the case, thank goodness, I will hand over the position of Crown Prince to him."

From now on, I can live the life I want.

"You're overthinking it. If that were the case, you'd die even faster!"

I'm telling you, from now on you are not allowed to say such things again, always talking about handing over the position of Crown Prince. We absolutely cannot give up the position of Crown Prince.

Even if you disregard your own life, you must be responsible to the people of the world.

Do you think Li Ke was truly capable of governing the country?

"Indeed, among us brothers, Li Ke is very outstanding."

He was skilled in both literature and martial arts, capable of composing poems and writing essays, as well as fighting on the battlefield.

Li Tai? He was too obese and soon couldn't even walk. He was panting after only a few steps.

Zhinu is still young.

Only Li Ke is now capable of handling things independently.

Su Wan walked to the table, poured a cup of hot tea, and handed it to Li Chengan:

Even so, I don't think Li Ke is suitable to govern the country.

Besides, I think there's something fishy about this.

"Oh, what's strange about that?"

Su Wan placed her hands in front of her abdomen and paced back and forth in the room, slowly saying, "I remember Xu Hui once said that the last time Chang'an was besieged, it looked like Chang'an was about to be captured by the allied forces of Zhang Zhongjian and Li Yuanli..."

Your father was very anxious and appealed to the various vassal kings for help, urging them to come to the capital to defend the emperor.

however,

Unexpectedly, Consort Yang wrote a letter to Li Ke, essentially instructing him to lead his troops outside the capital to observe the situation and not to return to rescue Chang'an.

Think about it, isn't this letter strange?

What was Consort Yang's mindset?

Does she intend to perish together with the Emperor and Empress Zhangsun?

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan frowned.

Because he couldn't figure out why Consort Yang would do that.

Su Wan's beautiful eyes were fixed on the direction of Chang'an: "Your Highness, it's not that I'm saying anything to sow discord,"

"I doubt Consort Yang loved your father that much."

"What do you mean?"

"Because in Consort Yang's mind, the Tang Dynasty's empire was seized from the hands of her Yang family."

"Do you have any basis for your statement?"

Do you know?

She asked your father, the Emperor, to let her live in Jiucheng Palace, because Jiucheng Palace was formerly Renshou Palace.

Renshou Palace belonged to her grandfather, Emperor Wen of Sui.

If your father acknowledges that Renshou Palace belonged to Emperor Wen of Sui, wouldn't that be tantamount to acknowledging that the Tang Dynasty's empire belonged to the Yang family?

"What are you saying? Did Consort Yang really say that?" Li Chenggan was also a little shocked when he heard this.

He thought to himself that Consort Yang was really not simple. She knew how to change the subject. His father was not careful and fell into her trap. Wouldn't that put him in a passive position?

Su Wan's words weren't without merit. Acknowledging that Renshou Palace belonged to Emperor Wen of Sui was tantamount to acknowledging that the Tang Dynasty also belonged to the Yang family.

Then, wouldn't it be illegitimate for Father Emperor to become the emperor?

How could my father, who is so shrewd, do such a foolish thing?

"That's what Consort Yang said, and your father actually agreed. I really don't know what your father was thinking."

Li Chengqian also found it difficult to understand his father's actions.

"Furthermore, Consort Yang believes that Emperor Yang of Sui was forced to his death by your father."

"Wasn't Emperor Yang of Sui killed by Yuwen Huaji?" Li Chenggan asked rhetorically.

"Emperor Yang of Sui was indeed killed by Yuwen Huaji in Jiangdu."

Later, Yuwen Huaji was killed by Dou Jiande.

Dou Jiande was captured by your father, the emperor, and taken to Chang'an, where he was killed by your grandfather.

That means Dou Jiande was a benefactor of the Yang family, while your grandfather and father killed him.

So, no matter how you put it...

Consort Yang felt that your imperial grandfather and your father had seized the throne from the Yang family and forced her father to commit suicide.

Therefore, Consort Yang's hatred for your father outweighs her love; she is determined to die alongside him.

"Is that possible? She gave birth to two sons for Father Emperor, Li Ke and Li Yin."

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan felt his hair stand on end; he was truly shocked.

"Oh dear, how should I put it?"

"It just shows you know too little about women. When a woman's heart hardens, she's capable of anything," Su Wan paused, then continued...

"Moreover, let me tell you, the women around your father are all extraordinary; each one is more beautiful than the last, and each one is more ruthless than the last."

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan's expression hardened: "Wan'er, besides Consort Yang, who else could possibly harm Father Emperor?"

"Princess Yang of the Nest Kingdom." Su Wan said firmly.

"Yang? You mean Li Yuanji's concubine?" Li Chenggan was surprised.

"If it wasn't her, who else could it be?"

"Didn't she give birth to a son, Li Ming, for Father Emperor?"

Su Wan pursed her lips: "Is Li Ming your father's son?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"Didn't you notice that Li Ming and Li Yuanji look exactly alike?"

From their appearance to their walking posture, expressions, and mannerisms, they are practically identical.

People say that Li Yuanji died during the Xuanwu Gate Incident.

At that time, Ms. Yang was already pregnant.

but,

Your father, seeing her beauty, took her into his harem.

Your father has a fatal flaw in this respect: he takes any woman, no matter what kind she is, as long as she is beautiful.

There are so many women in the world, why must you marry your own brother's widow?

In this respect, your father is probably not as good as Cao Cao.

Although Cao Cao was known for his fondness for seizing other men's wives, he typically seized the wives of enemy generals or other men's wives.

I've never heard of Cao Cao marrying his own brother's wife.

When Li Chengan heard Su Wan say such things, he felt his face burn: "I think you still have some prejudice against Father Emperor."

of course,

It is undeniable that Princess Yang, the wife of King Chao, was extremely beautiful.

This may be one of the reasons why the emperor took her into his harem.

However, this is not the main reason.

"Oh, so what do you think is the main reason?"

Li Chengan cleared his throat: "Because Princess Yang of Chao not only represents herself, but also the interests of an entire family."

During the Xuanwu Gate Incident,

The whole situation was turbulent and unstable, and the Emperor did this in order to stabilize the overall situation.

If everyone were to rise up in rebellion, it's hard to say whether the Emperor could contain it.

"If Father Emperor brings Lady Yang into the palace, then those behind Lady Yang will be much more secure."

Su Wan nodded: "You've said that before."

I heard that Yang had very deep feelings for Li Yuanji.

She often wept in front of Li Yuanji's memorial tablet, and said that she would definitely avenge Li Yuanji in the future.

Who do you think she's hoping will take revenge?

Whom will they seek revenge on this time?

Are you going to wait until Li Ming grows up and then let him seek revenge on your father?

So, you've raised an ungrateful child, you know that?

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan sighed.

"No matter what, even if Li Ming is Li Yuanji's son, isn't he still my brother?"

The fratricidal conflict at Xuanwu Gate was a last resort.

My father was forced into a corner, which is why he made that painful decision.

If Father hadn't taken that risk, he would have likely lost everything.

His meritorious generals and veterans would also leave him.

The whole team broke up.

And now,

The situation is completely different now; the overall situation is relatively stable.

The emperor also planned to adopt Li Ming as Li Yuanji's son, so that Li Ming could perform the ancestral rites for Li Yuanji.

If that's the case, wouldn't that be a good thing?

Su Wan was speechless after hearing this: "Aren't you oversimplifying this matter?"

I'm afraid that when Li Ming grows up and learns the truth, he'll start a rebellion.

Li Chengan waved his hand: "Let's talk about the future later. I don't think it'll come to that."

Could it be that,

"Can we kill Li Ming now? I'm afraid Father Emperor can't do it."

Su Wan shook her head: "Alright, I'll just leave it at that. Whether you listen or not is up to you and your father."

Li Chenggan lowered his head and remained silent.

He felt that Li Ming was lively and adorable, a vibrant life, and whether he was the emperor's son or Li Yuanji's son, he was still his brother.

at this time,

Su Wan sat down at the dressing table, facing the bronze mirror, picked up a comb, and began to comb her hair: "Your Highness, do you think my hair looks good?"

Li Chengqian nodded heavily: "Your hair is jet black, shiny, smooth and silky. Even Wei Zifu, who was known as the beauty with black hair back then, can't compare to you."

Su Wan was overjoyed: "Besides hair, is there anything else?"

Li Chengan carefully examined Su Wan: "You used to be very naive, like a green apple."

And now you've become more and more charming.

Su Wan chuckled upon hearing this and asked, "Your Highness, then, I'd like to ask you..."

How do I compare to women like Qu Zhili, Fuyu Fengmei, Yakushi Keiko, Jin Deman, and Princess Wada?

Upon hearing this,

Li Chenggan felt embarrassed. He understood what Su Wan meant; she was clearly jealous.

"Why do you say that? I'm just an ordinary friend to them."

"Just friends?" Su Wan's tone was tinged with doubt. "No wonder people say that if you can believe what men say, pigs can fly."

That time,

Qu Zhili and I went to Liujia Mountain to pick snow lingzhi.

Because the mountain was very steep, and with the heavy snowfall, climbing it became even more difficult.

But I don't know any martial arts.

Therefore, I will have Qu Zhili accompany you up the mountain to pick snow lingzhi.

However, to my surprise, when I arrived at the mountain, I found you kissing Qu Zhili.

I saw this with my own eyes.

Tell me, what exactly happened?

Do ordinary friends kiss each other?

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan felt completely flustered: "I've already explained what happened that time to you. It was a special action taken under special circumstances."

This cannot be interpreted as me having any particular thoughts about Qu Zhili.

At that time, she was stung by a giant scorpion, and the venom took effect.

I truly thought she was going to die.

Therefore,

She said that before she died, she wanted me to fulfill one wish for her.

"Oh, Qu Zhili's last wish was for you to kiss her, right?"

"If there had been a tatami mat nearby, wouldn't you two have ended up on it?"

"Wan'er, there's nothing between me and Qu Zhili, please believe me!" Li Chenggan didn't know how to explain anymore, and was sweating profusely with anxiety.

"Nothing at all? Is that really true?"

I've long heard that when you were in the Western Regions, you and Qu Zhili had already mastered a sword technique called "Perfect Harmony," which is incredibly powerful.

To master this swordsmanship, two people must be in perfect harmony.

As the saying goes, those who are of one mind understand each other perfectly.

How could you have done this if there was no affection between you two?

"Swordsmanship is swordsmanship, and feelings are feelings; how can they be the same thing?"

Su Wan stood up, looked at Li Chenggan, and asked, "You won't admit it, will you?"

Okay, then I'll ask you one more thing.

When you were in the Wa (Japanese) Kingdom,

I heard that Fuyu Fengmei has already taken your bed.

You two were so passionately entwined on the bed, you almost did *that*, right?

later,

Because Brother Yamabe suddenly barged in from outside, ruining your plans.

Otherwise, you two have done everything you should and shouldn't have done, haven't you?

Li Chenggan felt even more ashamed: "I think I've already explained that matter to you."

Since you've brought that up again, I'll explain it to you once more.

You're wrong again.

That time,

I thought that Fuyu Fengmei had drunk with me and gotten drunk.

then,

She collapsed to the ground, her face pale, and she was no longer breathing.

I thought she was about to die.

So, we quickly carried her to the couch.

Just as I was about to get up,

But then she woke up again, and unexpectedly, wrapped her arms around my neck.

Even if I wanted to look up, I couldn't.

However, that's all. I didn't do anything with her.

"You said you didn't do anything,"

"So, whether you did it or not, only the two of you know. How could anyone else know?" Su Wan asked Li Chenggan with her beautiful eyes.

Li Chengan knew that things like this often got worse the more he tried to explain them.

I have to tell you,

He was so anxious he didn't know what to say: "If you don't believe me, I can swear."

Seeing how anxious Li Chengqian was, Su Wan couldn't help but chuckle.

Then, she covered Li Chengqian's mouth with her hand: "Your Highness, there is no need to swear an oath."

If that's the case, what kind of person would I be?

Li Chengan looked at Su Wan, somewhat bewildered, and asked, "You mean you're not angry anymore?"

Su Wan looked at herself in the bronze mirror and sighed: "Your Highness, what reason or right do I have to be angry?"

I knew this would happen, that one day you would have a harem of wives and concubines.

Because of your different status

You are the crown prince; you will be the emperor someday.

How can you expect an emperor to be loyal to a woman?

Only a stupid woman would think that way.

There have been women like this throughout history.

For example, Consort Li, a concubine of Emperor Jing of Han, was one of them.

Princess Kuri is too naive and childish.

In her view, she had married Emperor Jing of Han.

Therefore, Emperor Jing of Han should have favored only himself.

Consort Li and Emperor Jing of Han had a son, Liu Rong, the eldest son of the emperor.

of course,

Emperor Jing of Han also made Liu Rong the crown prince.

but,

Princess Kuriki was not satisfied.

She hoped that Emperor Jing of Han would bestow all his favor upon her alone.

Unfortunately, Princess Kuri encountered Princess Guantao, the nemesis of her life.

Princess Guantao was the elder sister of Emperor Jing of Han, and thus held a special status.

On the one hand, Princess Guantao wanted to gain more benefits and receive more rewards;

on the other hand,

As Emperor Jing's elder sister, she naturally hoped that the Liu family's descendants would prosper.

So,

She then began searching for beautiful women for Emperor Jing of Han.

They kept sending women into Emperor Jing of Han's harem.

You men are all like this; you like young and beautiful women, and you get tired of the old and crave the new.

The number of women in Emperor Jing of Han's harem was increasing.

Emperor Jing of Han visited Consort Li less frequently.

Originally, Princess Kuri was a seductive woman, insatiable in her desires, and ravenously thirsty.

but,

How could she possibly compare to the experienced Wang Zhi and Wang Erxu?

These two sisters are both incredibly beautiful, incredibly alluring, and incredibly cunning, especially Wang Zhi.

Before this,

Wang Zhi had already married Jin Wangsun and had a daughter, Jin Su.

Therefore, Wang Zhi was very knowledgeable about matters between men and women.

Wang Zhi often brought Emperor Jing of Han to the brink of ecstasy.

so,

Emperor Jing of Han then frequently visited the Wang sisters, neglecting Consort Li.

result,

Wang Zhi gave birth to three princesses and one prince.

That prince was none other than Emperor Wu of Han.

Wang Erxu was even more remarkable, giving birth to four princes: Liu Yue, Liu Ji, Liu Cheng, and Liu Shun.

In this way,

Princess Kuriki got jealous.

She harbored a deep grudge against Princess Guantao, thinking that she had almost been banished to the cold palace, all thanks to Princess Guantao.

To be honest, Princess Guantao was quite greedy.

Seeing that Liu Rong had become the crown prince, she wanted to marry her daughter Chen Ajiao to Liu Rong, so that they could become even closer and her position would be more secure.

Princess Li harbored resentment because Princess Guantao had placed too many women in the harem.

Therefore,

When Princess Guantao proposed marriage, Consort Li refused without hesitation.

She said to Princess Guantao, "My son is the crown prince. Is your daughter a good match for my son?"

Don't you even know what kind of person your daughter is?

You really know how to curry favor with the powerful.

in fact,

If Consort Li had been a smart woman and agreed to the marriage, none of the subsequent events would have occurred, and Liu Che would never have become the crown prince.

but,

Princess Kuriki is too naive; she's oversimplifying the issue.

She believed that since her son Liu Rong was already the crown prince, she would be the empress sooner or later, so what was there to be afraid of?

so,

We can't learn from Princess Kurita.

That's courting death.

Upon hearing this, Li Chengan seemed to understand something, thinking to himself that Su Wan was indeed very well-read.

They are very knowledgeable about historical events.

Su Wan was right. The root cause of Liu Rong's downfall and Consort Li's death from depression was that Consort Li had offended Princess Guantao.

The reason she dared to offend Princess Guantao was because her thinking was too naive.

Su Wan grasped Li Chengqian's hand and said with deep affection, "Your Highness, I don't ask you to be devoted to me in the future. I don't care how many women you have outside. Just take care of yourself."

I just want you to understand that you are the only one in my heart. You are my everything, and I will always be devoted to you for the rest of my life.

If anything were to happen to you one day, then I would not live either. I would surely die for love, like Yu Ji.

Li Chengan was deeply moved upon hearing this.

He felt that if he had any inappropriate thoughts about other women, he would be letting Su Wan down.

Li Chengan had also heard the story of Yu Ji's suicide for love.

then,

When Xiang Yu was young, he met Yu Ji by chance, and the two fell in love.

Xiang Yu then gave Yu Ji a sword as a token of their betrothal.

Because he had nothing else on him to give away at the time.

Yu Ji sensed that this was an ominous sign.

but,

Since Xiang Yu had already offered it, she accepted it.

Xiang Yu was too young, too straightforward, and too sentimental. How could he possibly be a match for the cunning and shrewd Liu Bang?

finally,

They fell for Liu Bang's trick.

The Treaty of the Gap

After Liu Bang brought his parents and Lü Zhi back, he immediately turned against them and unilaterally broke the alliance.

then,

Liu Bang summoned his fierce generals, including Han Xin, Peng Yue, and Ying Bu, and set up an ambush at Gaixia.

At that time, Xiang Yu's army was small and his supplies were cut off. He heard the Chu songs from all sides.

Yu Ji danced and wielded her sword for him once more.

Xiang Yu never imagined that during that dance, Yu Ji would commit suicide with the sword Xiang Yu had given her.

Xiang Yu held Yu Ji's body, his heart breaking with grief.

At last,

Xiang Yu led twenty-eight horsemen to fight against Liu Bang's several thousand troops.

Xiang Yu is still not defeated.

He had the opportunity to cross the Wujiang River.

but,

Instead of doing that, Xiang Yu chose to commit suicide at the Wujiang River.

One possible reason for Xiang Yu's death was that Yu Ji died, and Xiang Yu no longer wanted to live alone.

Xiang Yu was a failed hero, and his death was tragic.

The love story between him and Yu Ji has been passed down through the ages.

Yu Ji was a woman of strong character who died with great dignity; she was truly remarkable.

Thinking of this, Li Chengan embraced Su Wan emotionally and said softly, "Some people say that both Xiang Yu and Liu Bang failed, and that Liu Bang was a greater failure than Xiang Yu."

Su Wan raised her face, looked at Li Chengan, and asked, "Oh, why is that the case?"

"The reason is simple: Xiang Yu failed, so it's understandable that he couldn't protect the woman he loved."

However, even though Liu Bang succeeded and became emperor, he still couldn't protect his beloved woman, Lady Qi.

Moreover, Lady Qi died a very tragic death.

In comparison, wasn't Liu Bang a greater failure than Xiang Yu?

Upon hearing this, Su Wan felt that Li Chengan's words made sense.

Thinking to himself, Xiang Yu was defeated and couldn't protect Yu Ji, so why can't Liu Bang, the emperor, even protect the woman he loves? Isn't he emperor for nothing?

"Wan'er, don't worry. In this respect, I will neither emulate Liu Bang nor Xiang Yu."

I will definitely protect you and make you the happiest woman in the world.

Su Wan pressed her face against Li Chengqian's chest and said softly, "Your Highness, you said those words, so don't forget them in the future."