Chapter 501
Chapter 501 Hidden Secrets
"Thank you, Master Gu, for your enlightening words," the Emperor nodded, putting an end to Xu Wei's continued argument. He spoke firmly, "We are all connected by blood. If others can be heartless, how could I be unjust? My ministers, say no more. My decision is final, and it shall not change! Gao Ping, draft the imperial decree immediately and announce it to the entire realm."
Once the Emperor had made up his mind, who else would dare to speak further? Chen Biqing stood up and shouted, "Your Majesty is broad-minded, full of loyalty, compassion, and virtue. Your love for the people is evident for all under Heaven to witness. This act will surely win the admiration of the realm and the allegiance of all nations. Long live the Emperor, long live, long live!"
"All nations will admire and pledge allegiance; long live the Emperor, long live, long live," the assembled ministers intoned in unison as they bowed deeply.
The Emperor sighed, his expression tinged with fatigue, "Then let the discussion end here. I shall visit my royal brother later. I hope he doesn't hold any grudges against me."
Treating Prince Cheng so generously—if the prince still bore any complaints—it would indeed defy all reason. The ministers sighed in awe and reverence, bowing as they watched the Emperor's silhouette gradually disappear behind the curtain.
So such a monumental issue was decided just like that? Lin Wanrong and Xu Wei exchanged glances. There were no beheadings, no rivers of blood; not even a word of blame had been uttered. Was the old man treating Prince Cheng this kindly?
As they stepped out of the hall, Xu Wei looked around to make sure no one was in the vicinity, then lowered his voice and said, "Little brother, what do you think has come over His Majesty? Why is he so indecisive at such a critical moment? Even without his legs, Prince Cheng is still a fearsome tiger, and his enmity runs even deeper. If we let him roam free in the north of the river, isn't that like letting a tiger return to the mountain?"
Lin Wanrong spread his hands in a wry smile, "What good does it do for you and me to discuss this? The old man has already made up his mind, and he hasn't given anyone else a chance to get a word in. In Sichuan, where the imperial influence is weak, the local women are all extremely beautiful. Prince Cheng would find life there quite comfortable. This is what's called turning a misfortune into a blessing. Ah, why don't I have such luck?"