Chapter 255: Speaking for the Military General and Soldiers
Defying the Emperor’s authority is a crime no one dares to bear.
The Countess of Xiangyang knelt on the ground, shrieking in defense: "Commandery Princess, Grand Madam, it was just this foolish girl’s reckless words. She’s nothing but a mouth full of nonsense. Even if you gave her ten thousand courage, she wouldn’t dare defy the Emperor’s authority. Please, Commandery Princess, discern the truth."
Now, she no longer pleaded with Song Ci, as she was utterly unreasonable; it was better to appeal to the Commandery Princess. This young one had a tender face and had been on the battlefield, surely possessing a heart unlike any ordinary woman; perhaps she’d let this matter go.
Niu Pan’er was indeed broad-minded. Seeing her pale, trembling face, she said, "This Commandery Princess knows that Miss Lin dare not defy the Emperor’s authority."
The Countess of Xiangyang’s heart eased, and she burst into a smile, proclaiming loudly: "The Commandery Princess sees everything clearly."
"However, it is also true that she has slandered and insulted this Commandery Princess behind my back." Niu Pan’er turned her back, lifting her chin slightly, her eyes fiercely directed at Lin Zhiying: "This Commandery Princess can forgive Miss Lin this time, but from today on, wherever this Commandery Princess is, I hope not to see Miss Lin appear. The Emperor’s grand celebration is imminent; to demonstrate loyalty, Miss Lin should transcribe scriptures to pray for the Emperor."
The Count of Xiangyang and Lin Zhiying turned pale once again, not daring to argue, only prostrating on the ground: "Thank you, Commandery Princess, for your mercy."
Niu Pan’er no longer looked at them but turned to Song Ci and smiled: "Grand Madam, shall we proceed to the front to admire the flowers?"
"Yes."
Song Ci responded but didn’t move immediately. Watching Lin Zhiying and the others, she said: "I have spoken before; one must know gratitude. These words aren’t spoken lightly. You said Commandery Princess Dongyang couldn’t even hold an embroidery needle, but she can wield a spear and sword, courageously facing the enemy. Ask yourselves: among those present, who can wield a spear like her?"
"Ninety percent of ten people can handle an embroidery needle; only one can wield a spear. Who is more noteworthy? You, living a luxurious life in domestic tranquility, who has brought you this peace? It wasn’t your ancestors, but those soldiers fighting desperately on the battlefield."