The Human Emperor Chapter 2465 - Side Story Chapter 38: Brothers!

Though the night was calm, a formidable undercurrent surged within the Imperial Palace, concealing imminent danger. Suddenly, a brilliant firework shot upwards from the depths of the palace, piercing the night sky. This was a signal, and instantly, sounds of battle erupted throughout the Imperial Palace, igniting countless fires. Plumes of smoke ascended towards the heavens as innumerable Imperial Army soldiers swarmed through the palace's avenues and structures, engaging in combat with each other. Flames erupted, blades flashed, and blood flowed, its sharp scent permeating the air. "Kill!" The war cries echoed, shaking the very foundations of the heavens and earth. The conflict was not confined to the Imperial Palace alone; even within the capital, the thunderous pounding of hooves rumbled like an approaching storm. The populace was plunged into panic, trembling in the darkness. The epicenter of this chaos, the areas surrounding Jade Dragon Palace and Taiji Palace, bore the most gruesome sights, with countless corpses strewn across the ground amidst shattered weaponry.

A howling wind swept through the capital, eventually surging over Taiji Palace, which stood majestically above all. Despite the raging battle and burning flames that raged beyond its walls, Taiji Palace remained remarkably serene, as if situated in a different realm. The grand doors of Taiji Palace stood ajar, revealing an empty interior. However, a golden throne had been placed before the entrance, and the First Prince, clad in full armor, sat imposingly upon it, his gaze like that of a fierce lion as he surveyed the scene below. Taiji Palace, constructed at the highest elevation of the Imperial Palace, offered a commanding view of the entire complex, allowing for a clear observation of all unfolding events. "Your Highness, all is within our control. Jade Dragon Palace has sustained heavy casualties, and the battle will conclude shortly," an important official beside the First Prince bowed respectfully. "Furthermore, all arrangements have been made. At dawn, the officials will convene in the palace to proceed with Your Highness's coronation ceremony." "It is not that simple!" Li Xuantu interjected, cutting off the official's words. "Ah?" The official appeared taken aback, regarding the First Prince with confusion. Li Xuantu gazed into the distance and casually remarked, "Relax. He will undoubtedly arrive at this location." "Him?" It was not merely that official; the surrounding courtiers who served the Eastern Palace also expressed surprise. However, they soon deduced that the 'him' the First Prince referred to was none other than the Third Prince. "But everything is under our command. This stronghold is defended by one hundred thousand Imperial Army soldiers, and we have already dispatched numerous elite experts," an Eastern Palace advisor argued. "He will come," Li Xuantu reiterated, his tone leaving no room for dissent. The assembled individuals exchanged glances, yet Li Xuantu offered no further explanation. It was a feeling, an intuition. Despite the Imperial Palace being swarming with soldiers and experts, and the palace resembling an impenetrable fortress, Li Xuantu felt a profound certainty that his third brother would reach this very spot. He had contended with his brother for so long, and their father had even deviated from tradition by considering the Third Prince for the position of Crown Prince. If his brother lacked the capability to overcome this situation, he would be utterly beneath Li Xuantu's regard. To consider such an individual his greatest adversary would have been truly pointless. As these thoughts crossed his mind, several distant explosions echoed, accompanied by pained screams. "Kill!" "Protect His Highness!" With a resounding roar and the twang of drawn bowstrings, a contingent of soldiers, their bodies drenched in blood, surged forth in the direction of Taiji Palace. Countless Imperial Army soldiers emerged from hidden alcoves, seeking to obstruct their path. These were troops strategically positioned beforehand by the Eastern Palace. However, this blood-soaked force proved more formidable than anyone could have anticipated. This detachment of several hundred soldiers advanced like a ferocious blade, decimating all resistance in their path. Leading this charge was a youth not yet twenty years of age, possessing a handsome countenance and an armored body that radiated an emperor's aura. "It's the Third Prince! But how is this possible?" All the Eastern Palace advisors were utterly stunned by the sight of the young man. The Third Prince's hair was disheveled, and his armor and steed were stained with blood, yet his eyes shone with resolute determination, an unforgettable and striking image even from afar. "Third Brother, you have indeed come," from the grand throne, the seated Li Xuantu slowly stood, his voice booming throughout the Imperial Palace. At that very moment, even the sounds of distant combat seemed to diminish. Almost simultaneously, Li Taiyi sensed the First Prince's presence and turned his gaze towards him.

The First Prince made a gesture, and an imposing aura burst forth from him. As if imbued with an irresistible force, the dense formation of the Imperial Army before him parted, creating a pathway.

Li Taiyi's gaze turned icy. Nevertheless, moments later, he urged his horse forward, with several hundred horsemen charging in his wake.

As this cavalry contingent reached the perimeter of Taiji Palace, countless soldiers materialized, forming a circle around both the palace and the several hundred riders.

Within the heart of the tempest, an eerie calm prevailed.

"Remain here."

Li Taiyi dismounted, his feet touching the ground before Taiji Palace.

The two brothers exchanged silent glances for a prolonged moment.

"Eldest Brother."

"Third Brother."

As their gazes locked, it was as if invisible sparks ignited between them.

"Matters have escalated to this point, yet you still refuse to yield?"

"Because there is no justifiable reason to abandon my cause."

Li Taiyi's demeanor was remarkably serene.

"Do you truly believe you possess the strength to resist me any longer?"

Li Xuantu let out a cold, disdainful laugh. His eyes swept past Li Taiyi, a glint of pity emerging as he surveyed the blood-streaked soldiers positioned behind his brother.

"I am the Crown Prince, officially designated by the Emperor Father, the chosen successor to the throne. On what grounds do you dare to defy me?"

Li Xuantu suddenly drew his gleaming sword. With a sharp, resonant clang, the golden blade soared into the heavens before arcing back down, its tip embedding itself into the earth directly before Li Xuantu.

"I shall afford you one final opportunity. Surrender the jade seal and yield, and I shall ensure your remains are left undisturbed. As a scion of the imperial family, you shall be granted a dignified interment within the imperial mausoleum. This is the extent of my magnanimity!"

Li Xuantu's gaze was imperious, his expression frigid and merciless.

His being was utterly devoid of any warmth, revealing only the cold-blooded ruthlessness of those who wield supreme power.

"Eldest Brother's consideration is truly touching. It appears my fate is sealed regardless of my actions," Li Taiyi remarked indifferently, his voice laced with biting mockery.

"Third Brother, in the pursuit of imperial authority, the bonds of father and son dissolve, let alone those of brothers. You should grasp this fundamental truth. For years, you have thwarted my every move, even swaying numerous court officials and military leaders to your side. Would it not betray a profound weakness on my part to allow you to continue living?

"Each additional day you draw breath is another day the realm remains in turmoil, and Our lands cannot achieve lasting stability," Li Xuantu stated nonchalantly, his eyes completely devoid of discernible emotion.

"Furthermore, from the very moment you commenced your scheme to usurp the throne from me, we ceased to be brothers."

"Haha, well said, truly befitting the Eldest Brother. Excellent words. What are brothers when weighed against the might of imperial power?"

Li Taiyi emitted a soft, derisive chuckle.

"However, Eldest Brother, do you genuinely believe victory is already yours?"

Li Xuantu's expression tightened, but within moments, his composure was restored.

"Third Brother, such pronouncements offer no solace to your current predicament. Or perhaps you intend to mount a final, desperate resistance?"

Li Xuantu advanced a step. An immense, palpable pressure radiated from his person.

It was evident that Li Xuantu had no intention of prolonging this verbal confrontation with Li Taiyi indefinitely. Since submission was not forthcoming, he was prepared to personally intervene and decisively end this contest for the throne.

Li Taiyi inclined his head. "Eldest Brother, it is you who should be reassessing the situation.

"I am aware that you have taken my mother captive and command the loyalty of the one hundred thousand soldiers comprising the Imperial Army. Your operatives are strategically positioned both within and outside the palace walls. However, Eldest Brother, do you truly believe I have remained idle in this struggle for the throne?"

Li Xuantu's countenance grew grim as he abruptly halted his advance.

"It should be precisely the appointed hour."

Li Taiyi tilted his head upward, directing his gaze toward the expansive palace grounds rather than at Li Xuantu.

As if in direct response to Li Taiyi's declaration, a magnificent firework streaked across the sky beyond the capital's confines, erupting in a brilliant, fiery explosion.

"Kill!"

Moments later, fierce battle cries surged forth in unison from all four gates of the capital. The clamor was so potent, it resounded for hundreds of li, causing the very roof tiles of the palace to tremble violently.