Li Shimin

Description:

Li Shimin is the emperor’s second son. He became superfluous, leading him to devise the idea of killing
his brothers, Li Jianchen and Li Yuanji, to secure the succession and become the second emperor of
Tang. The story also claims that he was the mastermind of killing Li Jianchen’s family, including Li Chang
Ge’s mother, which was not fully successful. He did not retaliate with aggression or vengeance when
General Yuchi failed to complete his duty, which was to obtain Li Chang Ge's body, indicating that his
behavior appears more reasonable and serene among his devoted allies. As it turns out, he is not only
preponderant but also conceited, as evidenced by the fact that he did not even consider possible paths
of hindrance or competencies. This is proven by his claim that Li Chang Ge cannot be the emperor since
she is a woman and hence cannot be a princess. Due to his overtly obnoxious traits, which caused the
main character, Li Chang Ge, to feel incomprehensible despair and rage, the novel implies that he is the
major protagonist.

Key relationship and explanation:

One of Emperor Taizong's sons, Li Shimin, is qualified to hold the throne under his control. He conceived
a vision of eradicating his brothers and their families because of his uneasiness. He does not value filial
piety because he could sacrifice his own family merely for a position of authority. It implies his allegiance
to the empire as well. His composed demeanor leads him to feel that there will not be any possible
obstacles; he does not realize that her niece is in an indescribable state or that she is planning her move
for his downturn.

Li Jianchen

Description:

He was known as one of the sons of Emperor Taizong, the person whom Li Shimin, the Emperor's second
son killed because he believed Li Jianchen to be an opponent. All of Li Jianchen's family members were
assassinated, other than Li Chang Ge, his daughter, who survived.

Key relationship and explanation:

As the son of Emperor Taizong, Li Jianchen is also qualified for a position on the throne. With that said,
he is an imminent threat to Li Shimin, Emperor Taizong's second son. He also had numerous close
relationships and was well-known among several clans, which may have made Li Shimin even more
unhinged. However, the narrative goes on because of Li Chang Ge, his daughter, who plans on giving
everything up to seek revenge for the demise of his family.
Li Chang Ge

Description:

The captivating protagonist character in the Manhua "Song of the Lost March," Li Chang Ge, is full of
resilience, determination, and unwavering loyalty. She is shown as both motivating and compassionate.
Li Chang Ge has a remarkable beauty that perfectly captures her unwavering determination. She is the
epitome of grace and beauty, her long, flowing hair descending that reveals her inner strength. Her
unflinching loyalty is one of Li Chang Ge's most endearing qualities. She maintains her unwavering
commitment to her friends and family throughout the entire Manhua. She rises beyond self-sacrifices
out of her steadfast dedication to justice and righteousness, displaying her unalterable honesty.
Firm willpower is at the core of Li Chang Ge's character. She is portrayed as a strong, independent young
lady who rejects gender stereotypes and cultural expectations. She is shown to value filial piety. She
feels a deep feeling of obligation to her parents and works hard to uphold her duties as a filial daughter.
Her behavior, respect for her parents, and dedication to sustaining family values demonstrate her
steadfast sense of loyalty to her family and the priority she places on carrying out her filial
responsibilities.

Key relationship and explanation:

Her connection with General Han Guang is one of the key relationships in the Manhua "Song of the Lost
March" that has a significant impact on Li Chang Ge. The relationship between Li Chang Ge and General
Han Guang is based on mutual respect, trust, and principles. Li Chang Ge's development is mentored
and encouraged by General Han Guang throughout the story. He gives her the power and direction she
needs to successfully traverse the perilous world she finds herself in thanks to his knowledge,
experience, and unflinching support. Their bond is one of respect and understanding for one another. Li
Chang Ge's extraordinary traits, such as her brilliance, resiliency, and resolve, are acknowledged by
General Han Guang. He develops into Li Chang Ge's valued comrade as well as a source of inspiration,
giving her a sense of direction and everlasting commitment. Their relationship and connection
emphasize the value of mentoring, the transforming potential of friendship, and the influence a mentor
may have on a person's life journey.

Synthesis:

Within the context of the story, the portrayal of this practice might be viewed as both positive and
challenging. On the one hand, the Manhua's emphasis on filial piety displays the traditional ideals of
decency, loyalty, and kinship. Li Chang Ge's steadfast love and loyalty to her family are evident in her
behavior. Her efforts, which are motivated by filial devotion, are laudable since she voluntarily forgoes
her personal well-being for the benefit of her parents and their reputation. Furthermore, the depiction
of filial piety develops Li Chang Ge's character and emphasizes the value of family ties in Chinese culture.
It makes her more relatable and sheds light on the complex nature of her choices and deeds. Because
the theme is the universal ideal of respecting and caring for one's loved ones, the emphasis on filial piety
also helps readers relate to the character on a deeper emotional level. On the other hand, Li Chang Ge
may face difficulties and disputes because of the strict dedication to filial piety. Her dedication to filial
duty frequently places her in trying circumstances throughout the Manhua, resulting in sacrifices of her
own and moral conundrums. It may be claimed that because of her steadfast loyalty to her family, she is
continuously constrained by cultural norms and familial responsibilities, which inhibits her freedom and
personal development. Manhua's depiction of filial piety could uphold cultural constraints and maintain
gender stereotypes. It is possible to interpret Li Chang Ge's dedication to filial piety as a reflection of the
demands imposed on women in Chinese society, where their primary function is frequently associated
with taking care of the needs of the family.