The struggles within an imperial family are either fought with real blades, as when Li Shimin killed his rivals, or through schemes and intrigue. Either way, they are a matter of life and death.
This story about Li Chengqian does not begin with grand, sweeping battles and ruthless bloodshed. Instead, it follows an ongoing game of strategy, each move made to seize the advantage and strike first.
There is not only the mercilessness of the imperial family here, but also the loyalty and kindness found in ordinary households.
The Tang realm could simply be larger,
and ordinary people of the Tang could also write their names into history.
The Tang is still the Tang, only better.
But Li Chengqian is no longer the Li Chengqian he once was.
-
Inside a palace.
The court historian watched the scene before him and tremblingly wrote in the history books:
‘In the spring of the seventeenth year of Zhenguan, at Daming Palace, Emperor Taizong of the Tang summoned Crown Prince Li Chengqian.’
‘The reason: Crown Prince Li Chengqian had plotted rebellion, and the plot was exposed.’
‘Emperor Taizong of the Tang was furious and heartbroken.’
‘Crown Prince Li Chengqian knelt without a word. His leg ailment flared up, and he fainted. He came to a moment later, his gaze vacant. Then he understood.’
‘...’
