Qi Xiaomian approached, intending to share the truth of the case with Shi Yun. Compared to Xuande Emperor, Qi Xiaomian trusted Shi Yun more; in such a significant matter, the Court needed a backup plan.
The Huayang Princess was quite the troublemaker, Shi Yun rationally assessed. Would Dayu and the ministers who accompanied him accept such an investigation result? The Huayang Princess claimed to have negotiated.
Shi Yun nodded, noting that during today's court session, it had indeed been quieter than usual. However, my informants told me that the Huayang Princess had leaked the truth about the Fifth Prince to those ministers. Knowing such a scandal, the ministers would rather go deaf than face it; they would kneel and beg for mercy. If the Great Yu Emperor found out they were aware of it, their only fate would be death.
Shi Yun sighed, recognizing that the Huayang Princess was playing a dangerous game by using this leverage. Whatever situation she had created for herself—whether it led to her demise or survival—was her own responsibility.
Well, enough about her. With the case concluding in this manner, there was something we could work with; if we allied with Dayu, we could strike a heavy blow against Ginger.
Shi Yuan, however, was dismissive. How much could we really gain? Ginger was practically broke. It would be better to wait until we could act decisively later on.
I heard that their crops were growing rapidly there, yielding two or three harvests a year, yet the Great Ginger Royal Family seemed blind to this advantage.
Shi Yun smiled encouragingly. While I might not see it myself, I hope you younger ones will realize it.
Qi Xiaomian asked Shi Yun if this whole matter needed to be reported to His Majesty. Do you think we should tell him?
Qi Xiaomian shook his head. His Majesty was somewhat intimidated by the Great Yu Emperor; hearing such a scandal suddenly would shatter the image of greatness he held in his mind. Given His Majesty's current temperament, one could fear he might impulsively send an imperial edict mocking the Great Yu Emperor. How could the Great Yu Emperor tolerate that? The borders might never know peace again.
Yes, I share that concern. Then let’s pretend we don’t know anything and proceed according to what the Huayang Princess said.
After Shi Yun finished speaking, he kicked Shi Yuan lightly. With the Imperial Examination approaching, how could you still be playing around? Go back and review your studies.
Shi Yuan's eyes widened in disbelief. Old man, just two hours ago you told me to sleep early and adjust my routine for my health! It hasn’t been long at all! Don’t you care about me anymore?
Shi Yun spoke in a slightly coaxing tone. The Imperial Examination is important; just hold on for a few more days.
Finally calmed down, Shi Yuan accepted this.
Shi Yun turned back to remind Qi Xiaomian that the Huayang Princess was not on the list of candidates for the examination. Afterward, as her return approached, she would petition the Court for a Consort; she had already hinted that she had her eye on you.
His Majesty is currently unaware of this; you must be cautious in dealing with matters in court.
The next day, the Huayang Princess ascended to the court and submitted a meticulously revised set of Case Files detailing the situation.
The Xuande Emperor slammed his hand on the table, exclaiming, "Ginger, you little thief! The Royal Tomb of Great Jing showcases the grandeur of our nation, and I will spare you this time. Yet you dare to offend again! Bring forth Ginger's group and capture them all. We shall decide their fate after the apology letter from Ginger is delivered back to us."
Once he had asserted his authority, he turned to the Huayang Princess and asked, "So, was that dead body really the Fifth Prince?"
Huayang felt a flush of embarrassment as she replied to the Xuande Emperor, "It is indeed my Prince. Imperial Jing has confirmed it. However, my Prince's birthmark was too faint. Consort Qi, concerned about appearances, sought someone privately to enhance it. Unfortunately, they overdid it and completely covered the birthmark. That is why I failed to recognize him; it is all my fault."
Listening to her explanation, the Xuande Emperor sensed something was amiss but couldn't quite grasp it with his muddled mind. Not wanting to trouble a woman further, he simply stated, "Dayu is a victim in this matter, and since Huayang Princess is one of the officials investigating this case, let past grievances be set aside."
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