Chapter 306: The Emperor’s Judgment (8) New
Ninety-nine percent of people, until things truly reach a certain point, always believe: “It won’t go that far. It really won’t.”
In most people’s eyes, an emperor killing tens of thousands is already extreme. Any more than that, and wouldn’t it be a massacre?
So, Fifth Huanyu and Xu Jingxing exchanged a glance and launched their attack without hesitation.
Xu Jingxing spoke first. Before opening his mouth, he even glanced at Fifth Huanyu, signaling that he wasn’t trying to hide behind him and send him to his death.
“Your Majesty, this humble subject once served as a substitute magistrate in Shaanxi.”
The old emperor observed this man—clearly as nervous as a mouse facing a cat, hands trembling—yet still trying to put on an impassioned front. Seeing this, he simply decided to give him a chance: “Speak.”
Under the sharp gaze, Xu Jingxing’s heart tightened. He gritted his teeth and went all in: “To supply rations for the troops stationed in the Hexi Corridor, the court specifically permitted merchants to purchase rice and transport it to Ganzhou. The court provided payment for both the rice and transportation costs—Your Majesty, some people are using this as an opportunity to swindle court funds.”
The old emperor let out a cold laugh, unsurprised. “Who?”
Xu Jingxing replied, “Officials from various states and counties in Shaanxi have done it—I have done it too! People from the royal households and the imperial sons-in-law’s residences have also done it! Even officials in the capital court…”