Li Chenxi stood outside the tent, the night wind brushing her face with a hint of coldness. Yet, her mind was far more troubled than the chill in the air. While her uprising plan in the northwest had seen initial success, the situation in the palace had grown more complicated. The backlash from Li Pei and the other power-holders had already quietly begun. Their actions were growing more urgent, and Li Chenxi knew that this power struggle was reaching its climax.
"Chenxi, we've just received word from the palace," Duan Xiaoting hurriedly entered the tent, her expression tense. "Li Pei and the other ministers are moving forward. They're planning to target you at tomorrow's banquet."
Li Chenxi fell silent for a moment, her gaze drifting towards the distant night sky. A cold glint flashed in her eyes. "Li Pei can no longer hold back," she said softly, her tone composed. "But if he dares to act, we'll see how far he's willing to go."
Duan Xiaoting furrowed her brow, looking at her with concern. "Don't you think it's too risky? You know their power. If you confront them now, you might find yourself trapped."
"If I keep evading them, I'll never gain true freedom," Li Chenxi took a deep breath, her gaze hardening with resolve. "Since they've already moved, it's time I strike first. Let's see who's faster."
Her words were calm but firm, as if a decision had already been made. Duan Xiaoting, though worried, knew that Li Chenxi was not one to hesitate, and once she made up her mind, nothing would change it.
"Alright then, I'll prepare at once," Duan Xiaoting said, nodding. "But you must be careful."
The Hidden Trap at the Banquet
The next day, the palace held a grand banquet. On the surface, it was to celebrate the court's recent victories, but in reality, it was a trap laid by Li Pei and the other ministers. Li Chenxi knew that the purpose of the banquet was not just to show off their power, but to weaken her influence within the palace. If she didn't attend, the political game would become even more complicated, and possibly, out of her control.
However, Li Chenxi was not one to play by their rules. She arrived at the banquet dressed in an elaborate royal gown, her eyes sharp and calculating. The atmosphere in the palace was lively, full of music and dancing, but she felt a deep sense of looming danger.
"Li County Princess, today's banquet is truly magnificent," Li Pei's voice came from behind her, tinged with amusement.
Li Chenxi turned and saw Li Pei approaching with a smile, his demeanor relaxed. She did not feel fear but returned his smile with a slight smirk. "Li Pei, all these noble guests are indeed enjoying themselves. But I wonder, is there something more interesting about today's banquet?"
Li Pei smiled and his eyes darkened slightly. "Li County Princess is as clever as ever. There are many distinguished guests today, and aside from them, perhaps there are things worth exploring."
His words were laced with hidden meaning, and Li Chenxi understood that Li Pei was testing her, trying to provoke a reaction. She smiled slightly and responded, "It seems Li Pei has something in mind. I'd be quite interested to know what exactly that is."
"Since Li County Princess is so intelligent, surely you understand what I mean," Li Pei's tone became a little heavier. "In the palace, for these past few years, there have been many storms. Perhaps you already realize that some people no longer want you to stay."
Li Chenxi's smile only deepened, but her eyes hardened. "If that is the case, why not be direct? Do you really think that such storms will die down simply because someone doesn't want me here?"
Li Pei was momentarily stunned but quickly regained his composure and sneered. "Li County Princess, you're truly sharp. Perhaps today's banquet will allow us to discuss something more 'interesting'."
Li Chenxi didn't say anything further. She knew that Li Pei's provocation was not just a verbal game but a battle of power. And she, too, had been preparing for this confrontation.
Tensions at the Banquet
The banquet was in full swing when the mood suddenly shifted. A messenger hurried into the hall, delivering a letter to Li Pei. Li Pei's brows furrowed as he glanced at the letter, his face changing slightly. However, he quickly regained his composure, taking a deep breath. He muttered under his breath, "It seems things are moving faster than I expected."
Li Chenxi noticed the change in Li Pei's expression. Her gaze sharpened as a premonition of unease crept over her. Just then, Li Pei stood up, his voice now commanding. "Everyone, today's banquet has been a great success, but I believe soon, the mood here will change."
Before he finished speaking, his eyes turned to Li Chenxi. "Li County Princess, I think it's time we face the truth."
His words were tinged with challenge, and all eyes in the hall turned to Li Chenxi, curious and expectant.
Li Chenxi remained unfazed, her gaze piercing as she stood. "Li Pei, since you are so direct, why don't we lay everything out and let everyone know what's really going on?"
Li Pei's expression darkened slightly, but he gave a soft chuckle. "Since Li County Princess is so brave, then let's stop pretending."
With a wave of his hand, several men in black entered the hall and swiftly sealed off all the exits. At the same time, the lights in the banquet hall suddenly went out, plunging the room into darkness.
"Tonight, no one is leaving," Li Pei's voice echoed through the darkened room, carrying an oppressive force. It was clear that he believed victory was already within his grasp.
Li Chenxi's Counterattack
Amidst the sudden turn of events, Li Chenxi's calmness only intensified. Her sharp eyes gleamed as she quickly assessed the situation. Li Pei and the ministers had set a massive trap, hoping to corner her in this banquet.
But Li Chenxi was always prepared. She gave a subtle gesture, and at once, another group of her elite soldiers entered the hall, moving swiftly into position.
"If you think you can trap me like this, you're gravely mistaken," Li Chenxi's voice rang out, cool yet resolute. "This power struggle has only just begun."
The atmosphere in the banquet hall grew tense, with both sides preparing for an inevitable confrontation. Li Chenxi's calm confidence and readiness for battle reflected her extraordinary strategic insight and adaptability.