Recruiting Him Early

Thus, Su Ziji's reputation for talent, his achievements, and his path all made Prince Qi secretly disdain him; he did not regard him as a true competitor.

Let alone competing for the imperial throne—with that style and that path, he was not even fit to be a governor-general!

Yet at first sight today, Prince Qi had shuddered with cold dread. That bearing, that spirit—they were far too much like the Crown Prince.

He knew full well that it was precisely such bearing that made people feel, "No subject should possess this." Even though the Crown Prince had always been gentle, modest, courteous, and approachable, he had still drawn Father Emperor's suspicion.

Yet now that Su Ziji possessed it, Prince Qi still could not suppress himself. He even felt a faint fear.

This boy cannot be allowed to live. For the first time, that thought truly took root in Prince Qi's heart.

"Twenty years ago, the Crown Prince held my hand as he led me into the palace..." Even Prince Shu looked lost, his voice gradually fading away halfway through.

The two turned back to look at the palace towers, both staring blankly. Naturally, the Crown Prince had pressed down upon them so heavily that they could scarcely breathe, filling them with despair. With such a Crown Prince, who could possibly compete against him?

Yet unexpectedly, the Emperor had contended with him and forcibly deposed the Crown Prince.

No—he had not been deposed. He had been worn to death.

After a long while, Prince Qi came to himself and entered his ox carriage. Then his eyes flickered as he said, "Prince Shu, would you care to come to my residence for a talk?"

Prince Shu also recovered, snapping his folding fan shut and bowing. "No. I recall that in a few