Hidden Dragon: Raising a Tyrant in the Tang Dynasty

When other people transmigrate into the past as princes, they either lie flat as carefree princes or cling to the crown prince. But Li Ke, transmigrated as an illegitimate son of Li Shimin, sets his sights directly on the blood-soaked Dragon Throne.

He is the “seventh son” never mentioned in the history books, yet the most formidable player in the game of power during the Zhenguan era.

On the surface, he is the ailing, dutiful and well-behaved Prince of Hejian, who sheds tears over an injured pigeon and is “too timid” to speak at court. In secret, he is a ruthless conspirator who leaves nothing to chance, willing to sacrifice his birth mother to advance his plans and scheme against his brothers to seize power. Even Li Shimin’s health becomes part of his strategy.

The court officials call him “kind and weak,” and he accepts the label with a smile. The crown prince considers him “harmless,” and he lets him think so. Li Shimin praises him as “pure and good,” and he bows to offer his thanks.

But when Li Chengqian is deposed for treason, Li Tai loses favor through his greed, and the power of Zhangsun Wuji is uprooted, everyone finally realizes that this seemingly harmless illegitimate son is the most deeply concealed viper of them all.

“Family affection and righteousness are nothing but irritating specks of dust before the Dragon Throne.”

Holding a bloodstained imperial robe, Li Ke stands in the Golden Throne Hall of Taiji Palace. Looking out at the trembling officials filling the court, he finally reveals the first genuine smile he has shown since transmigrating.