Chapter 109 - 107: The Ruthless Emperor
After Xiao Fu returned home, he rested quietly for a few days and then became active again in the upper circles of the capital officials. Everyone almost unanimously regarded him as the next Minister of Revenue, treating him with great respect.
Eight days later, another grand court assembly was held, and the atmosphere in the Xiao Family was different. Dressed impeccably, Xiao Bairen and Xiao Fu walked out of the Xiao Family’s main gate with a swagger, and along the way, officials congratulated them. Although they humbly replied, their faces revealed a pride that seemed to take the position of Minister of Revenue as already theirs.
"The Emperor has arrived."
"We, your humble subjects, greet Your Majesty with wishes for your eternal life, long live, long live, forever! "
"My beloved courtiers, please rise."
"Thank you, Your Majesty."
"Does any among you have matters to report?"
"Your subject has a memorial to present." The Minister of War stepped into the center of Taihe Palace and presented a memorial, saying, "Due to the prolonged war in the Northern lands, General Li has requested ten thousand sets of winter clothing, ten thousand pieces of weaponry, and five hundred thousand catties of grain and fodder. This minister earnestly requests Your Majesty’s approval."
"I oppose," Xiao Bairen stepped forward, speaking ardently, "Three months ago, General Li had already requisitioned three hundred thousand catties of grain and fodder from Lu and Shan lands. Furthermore, the war has now subsided, and there is simply no need for additional supplies. I truly doubt General Li’s intentions; why does he not return to the court rather than request such a substantial amount of military provisions?"
"Prime Minister, with the Xiongnu army looming at the border, how can General Li return to the court?" The Minister of War spoke sharply. He had anticipated that today’s presentation would not be easy, but he never expected Prime Minister Xiao to so openly slander General Li’s loyalty under broad daylight. However, His Majesty’s reappointment of Prime Minister Xiao was not a matter of a day or two, so he was really uncertain about what decision His Majesty would make.