Yes, Li Ji had suffered much, and Shufeng would let no one disrespect her! She was a water lily—a fighter able to grow out of shallow, muddy waters to produce blooms that more than compensated for its harsh environment. Li Ji had a heart big and strong enough to overcome any adversities, and also, dignified enough to never protest against her environment or hold him responsible for being planted there by his side.
In that moment, Taizong thought he saw that his brother's eyes glistened, and he detected that his voice cracked. He could tell from this reaction that he had overstepped the bounds of acceptable behaviour, but the First Prince was not fazed by this show of emotions.
"Brother, watch your temper. Since you have just been reinstated, perhaps now is not the time for such display of disgraceful temperament. Eyes are on us right this instant, and tongues will waggle at your outburst.
