Chapter 689: Chapter 688: 689: The Crown Prince Makes Sense

“Prince of Zhao, I entrust this matter to you. Conduct a thorough investigation to find the perpetrator and administer justice impartially. Settle this issue for Prince Xinhai,”

Li You bowed, “Your servant obeys your command.”

Prince Xinhai also knelt down to express his gratitude.

The two of them left Crystal Frost Hall together and stood at the bottom of the steps, looking at the snow-covered scenery within the hall.

Li You’s voice was as gentle as ever: “Prince Xinhai, it’s unfortunate that you have suffered so much in the few days since your arrival in Chang’an.”

“Hmph.”

Prince Xinhai, contrary to his subservient demeanor in the presence of the Emperor, grimaced and retorted, “That’s nothing compared to what you’ve endured in Silla. I wonder if the scars from the ant bites on your back have healed?”

Li You was not provoked by his words.

He maintained his usual calm and quiet expression, the same one he’s carried for many years.

“Crown Prince, while the damaged skin may not heal, it doesn’t affect me substantially; instead, they serve as my badges of honor. But the fingers and dignity you’ve lost – they can never be retrieved.”

Prince Xinhai felt a pang in his fingers.

Although he had already lost his left pinky, he could still feel a throbbing pain.

He stared at Li You with eyes as cold as a snake’s, and for some reason, he suddenly grinned.

“I suspect the things you’ve lost are no less significant than mine.”

“Any injury I sustain is of no importance to me,” Li You responded casually, “However, I find it rather odd that you’re trying to provoke me at a time like this.”

“So what? Even if we harbor lots of animosity towards each other, does it outweigh your desire for the throne?” Prince Xinhai said, a snake-like smile on his childish face, “Now is a prime opportunity for you to undermine the East Palace. If you take over, or one day ascend the throne, won’t you be able to take your revenge?”

Li You pondered seriously for a while, then nodded, “What you’ve said makes sense.”

Before Prince Xinhai could reveal a triumphant smile, he continued to say, “But what if I have no interest in becoming Crown Prince or in the position itself? As the Prince of Zhao, as long as I maintain a good relationship with my dear brother, don’t you think I would still have the opportunity to handle Silla in the future?”

Prince Xinhai’s smile froze on his face.

Li You revealed a kind smile, “Not everyone is as ambitious as you. But, I can assure you, your brother would certainly be more interested in the position of the Monarch of Silla. What would you do if you were to fall here?”

“I am the legitimate child of my father and the Queen Mother; I am not someone who can be replaced by those bastard children born of concubines.”

“Indeed, in Silla, the children of concubines are indeed inferior. However, even an inferior child of a concubine is much more useful than a deceased legitimate child, don’t you think?”

Prince Xinhai’s face changed slightly.

He was silent for a while, then said, “I do not believe that you have no interest in the throne.”

“If your highness believes that I would wage war against my Crown Prince brother for your sake, then, I’m afraid you have completely misjudged the situation.”

“Dare you deceive the Emperor?”

“Naturally not. I will report the truth.”

“Hmph, I suppose you wouldn’t dare not to.”

“However, when I choose to report it is entirely up to me.”

“You—”

“Your Highness, I have other matters to attend to. I must take my leave.”

Li You adjusted his robe and walked away.

Prince Xinhai watched his retreating figure with hatred.

Even though he was furious, he was not out of options.

If Li You refused to cooperate, he still had other allies in the court.