Li Changxing could not help feeling startled by his son's words. He had thought his son did nothing but study behind closed doors and knew little of other matters, never expecting him to see so deeply and so far ahead. He said quietly, "His Majesty must have difficulties that leave him no choice."
Li Mingju said, "Difficulties that leave him no choice? I doubt it. His Majesty has always wanted to eliminate the thorn in his heart, but doesn't he understand that family affairs need no outside help? Using outsiders to settle the Bohai Kingdom's internal affairs is no different from inviting wolves into the house. In the end, the losses will surely outweigh the gains."
Li Changxing was horrified. "What nonsense are you spouting, child?" he scolded. Alarmed, he opened the door and looked outside, then came back and pushed open the window to inspect the surroundings. Only after making certain no one was nearby did he relax. Although he, too, had plenty of reservations about the current ruler's actions, he kept them buried in his heart and would never dare voice them before the king. To eliminate potential threats, the previous King of Bohai, Yan Tianzheng, had struck against his two brothers, unleashing a bloody storm throughout the Bohai Kingdom and dealing its fortunes a devastating blow. The present ruler, Yan Dongsheng, lacked both commanding resolve and a willingness to shoulder responsibility. Although he treated his subjects reasonably well, that was hardly enough to make a good sovereign.
Li Mingju said, "Father, you needn't be afraid. We're at home, and I've told the servants not to come near here."
Li Changxing said, "Remember, walls have ears, and disaster slips out through the mouth."
Li Mingju said, "I'll remember. I won't speak carelessly outside."
Li Changxing nodded. "About your