无翼乌工口里番无色无摭挡

Amazingly, while the Emperor’s appearance was rather ordinary, all of his sons were exceptional. Perhaps it was because their mothers were all beauties of different types.

Indeed, the saying ‘the dragon has nine sons, each different’ held true here.

As the son of the dazzlingly beautiful Jin Zhuzhu, Li Hongyuan stood out amongst the princes. In terms of sheer physical attractiveness, Li You was quite some distance behind him.

However, Li You possessed a naturally gentle and charismatic smile. Compared to Li Hongyuan’s aloof and gloomy demeanor, it made him much more approachable and likable.

Simply put, this illegitimate son of the Emperor was very personable.

Upon meeting him, Jiang Ning understood why the Emperor had put him in charge of the spy system in Silla. At first glance, his demeanor was like a refreshing breeze, congenial and accommodating.

If someone with Li Hongyuan’s surly character were to try to gather information, he would undoubtedly arouse suspicion.

Li You had evidently just bathed and changed. His robes fluttered gently, his long hair was smooth, and as he approached, he first knelt to pay his respects to Li Hongyuan.

“I, Li You, greet the Crown Prince and Princess Consort.”

Li Hongyuan glanced at him before saying indifferently, “Rise.”

Li You stood up, a natural smile lighting up his peach blossom eyes. His voice was soft and pleasing, “I’ve heard long ago that the Princess Consort is the most beautiful woman in Chang’an. Now that I see you, I truly believe it.”

Jiang Ning chuckled, “You’re mistaken, Prince. The most beautiful woman is my mother.”

“No, your mother is the foremost beauty of the previous generation. The foremost beauty of our younger generation is now the Princess Consort.” Li You answered with a warm smile, displaying grace and courtesy.

Li Hongyuan asked coldly, “Li You, have you visited the Crystal Frost Hall?”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“It seems you had a good conversation.” Li Hongyuan’s words had barely faded when a eunuch from the Crystal Frost Hall hurried in, holding an Imperial Edict in his hands.

Jiang Ning and Li Hongyuan exchanged glances.

Ever since Concubine Jin passed away, it had been quite some time since the Emperor had issued an edict.

The sudden issuance of an edict now was clearly intended for Li You.

As expected, the eunuch looked at Li You and said, “Li You, receive the edict.”

Li You immediately knelt.

The eunuch unrolled the edict, reading out lengthy praises for Li You, before finally declaring that for his meritorious service, he was to be titled the Prince of Zhao.

Jiang Ning was stunned.

Nominally, Li You was still the son of the Prince of Kang County.

His father was just a prince, and even if he inherited his title without demotion, he could only be a prince at most. So how was it that he was immediately given the title of a royal prince?

Not only was he not demoted, he was even promoted.

According to the rules of Great Sheng, apart from the Emperor’s sons, only ministers or nobles who had performed outstanding services could be granted the title of a royal prince.

As the head of the spy network, Li You had certainly sent back some information, but after only two years he was captured – was that considered outstanding service?

On what grounds was he being made a royal prince?

The ministers and palace attendants present all wore shocked expressions.

Jiang Ning and Li Hongyuan exchanged glances, both fully aware of the unspoken implications.

The Emperor did not intend to publicly declare Li You’s identity as a prince, given the implications for the royal reputation. But with this edict, he had essentially restored Li You’s status as a prince.

Those who had been around court for a while and were quick to catch subtleties would be able to grasp the intent.

In other words, some things are left unsaid, but those who understand, understand.

It seemed that Li You had anticipated this. He respectfully and calmly gave thanks, accepted the edict, remaining neither excessively humble nor arrogantly proud, surprising everyone with his composure.