are to openly scold him, but instead, they would slander his name in private or send people out to smear his reputation.He was familiar with the common people, yet he did not feel the prince's cruelty...Chapter 692: The Empress

Asking for solutions to a problem too directly can be detrimental to subordinates.

Because no leader likes a subordinate who asks how to do everything.

However, this matter was of such great importance that Su Zhen Ting absolutely could not act on his own accord, even if there was the slightest possibility.

So ask what needs to be asked.

This is appropriate vulnerability, and it's a manifestation of wisdom. At the very least, one should clearly state their position of absolute impartiality.

Li Chen pondered for a moment, then said, "When necessary, strike first. This palace will make preparations in advance."

It said nothing, yet it said everything.

Su Zhen Ting knew that he only needed to do what Li Chen asked him to do.

Thus, he nodded and said, "Then this minister shall take his leave."

Li Chen nodded, watched Su Zhetong leave, then got up and said, "Go to Fengxi Palace."

......

"The Crown Prince has arrived."

A voice calling out startled Zhao Qinglan, who had only just returned to Fengxi Palace and was still reeling from the recent turmoil in Taihe Hall.

She knew that Li Chen must have come this time to confront her.

After all, the two almost came to blows in the Taihe Palace. Under such a tense atmosphere, with Li Chen's personality, he definitely wouldn't just let it go.

Zhao Qinglan remained impassive, seated on the Fengluan throne representing the Empress, watching Li Chen stride into the main hall of Fenghxi Palace.

"My son, I have seen Your Majesty."

Li Chen saluted with a serious and proper manner, impeccable in his form.

"You're welcome."

Zhao Qinglan said calmly, "Prince, what brings you here"

Li Chen stood in the middle of the main hall, looking straight at Zhao Qinglan, and waved his hand: "Left and right, step back. This palace has a few words to say with the Empress Dowager."

The maids and eunuchs on either side hesitated.

On one hand, they were afraid to offend the Crown Prince who now held absolute power. On the other hand, they were afraid to abandon the Empress Dowager.

A flash of frost crossed Zhao Qinglan's pretty face as she said stiffly, “Between the Crown Prince and this palace, there is nothing to say privately, nor are there any words that others shouldn't hear. The Crown Prince just needs to speak.”

Li Chen seemed to have not heard Zhao Qinglan's words, and coldly said to the group of palace maids, "Can't you hear what I'm saying"

The maids trembled, lowered their heads, and silently departed.

This scene made Zhao Qinglan's phoenix eyes filled with anger. She clenched her fists and looked at Li Chen with humiliation, "What do you want"

After everyone had left, a smile curled up at the corner of Li Chen's mouth. He walked forward step by step, stepping onto the Phoenix Throne, his toes touching Zhao Qinglan's.

"Shouldn't I be the one asking you this"

The Phoenix Throne was equivalent to the emperor's dragon bed. No one but the emperor could step foot on it, otherwise, it would be a crime comparable to treason.

Zhao Qinglan saw Li Chen's actions and angrily said, "You are presumptuous!"

As he spoke, Zhao Qinglan raised her hand to slap Li Chen.

She had only raised her hand when Li Chen grabbed her wrist.

Clutching Zhao Qinglan's delicate and smooth wrist, Li Chen smiled on his face, but his eyes were icy cold.

"Am I being unrestrained Am I not unrestrained enough Has Her Majesty the Empress still not gotten used to my unrestraint!"

This statement has a thousand meanings.

Zhao Qinglan obviously understood what Li Chen meant.

Her pretty face flushed, she wasn't sure if it was from anger or embarrassment.

Struggling, she couldn't break free from Li Chen's grip. Zhao Qinglan angrily shouted, "Let go of me!"

"Once I'm done speaking, I will naturally let go."

Li Chen said coldly, “After the new year this year, first there was an assassin’s attempt, and then someone broke into Taihe Hall. This palace feels that the guards in the imperial palace are no longer trustworthy. Therefore, I plan to replace a batch of reliable guards for Fengxi Palace to protect the Empress Dowager’s safety. Please allow it, Empress Dowager.” comrades or enemies to continue fighting. If they couldn't find a weapon, they would attack with their fists and teeth, using every means necessary to kill their opponents and survive.Flags fell, tan...