"Though I've regained the recognition of the Mu Clan bloodline, being an imperial kinsman may not be a protective talisman. It might bring death down on my head instead." In the residence's main hall, Li Shun sat at the head of the room and spoke slowly.
By now, Li Qing had calmed down. He considered those words carefully, then nodded in agreement. "Your concerns aren't unfounded, Brother."
"A hundredth-generation descendant of Emperor Gan sounds impressive, but it can only intimidate the Blood Armored Guards inside the Imperial Tomb. I have no foundation whatsoever at court. Besides, Emperor Gan treats even his own blood relatives like pigs and dogs, let alone anyone else."
Li Shun looked at Li Qing and teased, "And another thing: someone of Great Qian's imperial bloodline would be an irresistible prize to those rebels itching to make their move. If they could borrow the head on my shoulders, they'd become famous throughout the world in an instant. Isn't that right, Little Dumpling?"
Li Qing flushed slightly. "Brother, what are you saying?"
But Li Qing's thoughts moved quickly too. Rubbing his chin, he mused, "Still, seriously speaking, there really is something we could make of your identity as Emperor Gan's hundredth-generation descendant. Think about it. If even Emperor Gan's own clansmen can't endure his rule and raise the banner of rebellion, wouldn't that prove all the more clearly what a foolish, immoral ruler he is?"
The more Li Qing thought about it, the more excited he became. He hurriedly urged, "Brother, why don't you just join me in rebelling?"
Li Shun ignored his suggestion and merely instructed him in an even tone, "The breach of the Imperial Tomb Burial Mound is no small matter. There's no way it will end this easily. The twin suns overhead and the