"Waves do not rise without wind. If His Majesty had no such intention, who would dare attack the eight dukes of the current court?
"Undercurrents surged through the court, and there were plenty of secret struggles among the eight dukes.
"In particular, three or four of the eight dukes were becoming increasingly overbearing.
"His Majesty also wanted to inject fresh blood to counterbalance them.
"This is one of the imperial family's troubles. It is no good for one family, or even several families, to dominate.
"If they collude, Great Chu will be in danger," Chu Xiangluo said.
"Not just the eight dukes-there are also some princes. Seventh Prince, why don't you rise up? With your talent, who could compete with you for the position of crown prince?" Chu Cong said.
"In this life, I live only for Luo Shen; in this life, I die only for Luo Shen. Ah... enough, enough. Let's drink and ease our minds." Chu Xiangluo waved a hand, his face filled with sorrow.
"But you can't have her... why hang yourself from a single tree? Our Great Chu has no shortage of beauties, and there are foreign women too," Chu Cong said.
"Don't bring it up! Say another word and I'll lose my temper!" Chu Xiangluo's face hardened. Chu Cong sighed, not daring to prattle on, then smiled. "Look at Lord Tang. He's blessed with that sort of luck."
"You mean Gu Hanyan is as beautiful as a celestial maiden?" Chu Xiangluo asked.
"That Mei Niansu by his side is quite lovely too, and even Lin Jingru, the one who looks like an elder sister, is no less attractive. His lordship enjoys all the blessings of a man surrounded by women.
"And look at Feng Jiuxue-so valiant and spirited, a woman who yields nothing to men.