He slammed his fist on the table, feigning outrage. "This Gao Zimou, to justify his rebellion, dares to slander me? Does he not realize this realm is mine, and its people are mine? How could I possibly harm my own interests?"
The ministers chimed in, condemning Gao Zimou. At this moment, regardless of whether they believed the Emperor's words, they had to stand by his side. After all, fortunes shifted, and if the Third Prince succeeded in his rebellion, who knew what their fate would be.
Seeing their agreement, the Emperor nodded with satisfaction. His demeanor shifted, and he looked at them with hopeful eyes. "Then, which of my loyal subjects will volunteer to share my burden?"
The civil officials remained silent, but the military officials lowered their heads, seemingly trying to avoid the Emperor's gaze. The Emperor, noticing their eager attempts to escape his attention, grew angry internally but maintained a calm facade. Stability and unity were paramount at this time.
After a pause, the Emperor spoke calmly, "It seems everyone lacks confidence against the Third Prince. Fear not, the reason he was initially granted only fifty thousand troops was precisely because we knew of his disloyal intentions. In truth, our heavenly dynasty's forces are beyond comparison to the Xiongnu. We can mobilize over three hundred thousand men. Even without my word, you all know the caliber of men he commands. Whoever can defeat him, I will immediately promote them to Grand General of the Realm, a position of supreme rank. Now, I ask for your recommendations."
Those who had been hesitant perked up. Though they might have feared the Third Prince, the thought of achieving such a meteoric rise was enticing. They were eager, yet hesitant to be the first to commit.
Li Ninghou's son was a disappointment. He had killed someone in a fit of jealousy over a courtesan. While the Emperor had intervened, resulting in a severe beating for his son and substantial compensation in gold and jewels, the offense could not be undone.
The opposing party had since systematically marginalized their family in court and even earned the Emperor's disapproval for their poor upbringing of their offspring. The Li family's prestige plummeted, and they were on the verge of being forgotten. How could they accept this?
Coincidentally, the legitimate son of the second branch was a moderately renowned general. Initially, he had no intention of recommending him. The second branch's growing influence would undoubtedly pose a threat to their own position. However, witnessing their family's impending decline and the immense opportunity before them, he made his decision. Losing to the Third Prince, known as the God of War, was understandable. His nephew's life was not his concern; at most, he would shed a few tears. But if his nephew were fortunate enough to become a general of supreme rank, he could leverage that power. Su Dan Novel Network.
He was aware that the three brothers from the second branch harbored resentment towards the first branch. But regardless, he was the one recommending him this time. If he ever needed a favor from his nephew in the future and was refused, he would publicize it, believing that public pressure would deter any reprisal. More importantly, this would secure a permanent place for the Li family in court.
With these thoughts, he quickly recommended his nephew to the Emperor. Many shared a similar mindset, recommending relatives, nephews, or even their less favored sons. The Emperor stroked his beard with satisfaction.
Considering all factors, Li Zixiang from Li Ninghou's family was ultimately chosen. When the Emperor announced the decision, Li Zixiang knelt to express his gratitude with a stoic expression. The ministers nodded approvingly, thinking him a promising talent destined for greatness, and regretting that such a person wasn't their own descendant.
Upon leaving the palace, Li Ninghou held Li Zixiang's hand, lamenting. "Your uncle knows how his past actions have hindered your future. I know you harbor resentment, but seize this chance to soar to the heavens."
"Thank you, Uncle," Li Zixiang replied, his expression unchanging, making it impossible to gauge his true feelings. Seeing this, many couldn't help but feel a sense of pity, wishing he were their son, for they would have done everything to support him, confident that his intelligence would astound everyone.
"In the past, I misjudged the dark and treacherous world of officialdom, fearing you, so young, would be taken advantage of. I turned down opportunities for you. Now I realize you are grown, a father yourself, and must learn to mature. I hope you can forgive me." Li Ninghou looked at him with apparent sincerity, and anyone unaware would have believed his intentions were pure, though his actions proved otherwise.
"We are family. How can a nephew bear grudges? I know you acted for my own good." Such pleasantries were easy to utter. If not for his tightly clenched fists, the bulging veins betraying his inner resentment, his facade would have been convincing.
Li Ninghou patted his shoulder with satisfaction and then offered some battlefield advice. From a distance, their camaraderie seemed genuine.
Not long after returning home, the second madam rushed into his courtyard. Tears welled up as soon as she saw him, her voice choked with emotion. "My dear son, I heard from the first branch that you are to go to war? Your mother seeks no riches, only the safety and well-being of you and your brothers. Can this assignment be declined?"
"Mother, there's no need to worry. Haven't you always said my ambitions had no outlet? Now, an opportunity has arisen. You should be happy for me," Li Zixiang said, smiling at his mother to comfort her.
"If it were anyone else, I would have faith in my son to defeat them soundly. But your opponent is the Third Prince, the God of War, who drove out the Xiongnu without a single soldier, a being even the Emperor fears." The second madam's brow furrowed. In the past, she had hoped her son would climb higher, free from the Li family's control, able to fly freely. But now, she wished he would stay home and study, achieving nothing, so at least his life would be secure.
"If I can defeat him, won't I become famous overnight? Mother, do you have no faith in your son? I relish this challenge. Mother, please rest assured and wait for my triumphant return. Once I become the Grand General of the Realm, we can establish our own household. Won't it be better than living under their control?" Li Zixiang spoke words he didn't truly feel. In truth, he had admired the Third Prince since childhood. Though he couldn't openly contact him due to the Emperor, he knew every move the Third Prince made. He was, in essence, a devoted fan. Honestly, compared to the Third Prince, he felt uncertain of his success. But at this moment, he couldn't let his mother worry.