Chapter 613: He Knows
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qin Zhenzhen staunchly supported the Third Prince, recognizing him as the pivotal male protagonist destined to shape the narrative. The integrity of this central storyline was sacrosanct.
Notably, the author crafted the Third Prince as a virtuous character, surpassing the Crown Prince and the denizens of the Public House in strength and moral fiber. The prospect of him ascending the throne promised a boon for the entire realm.
Su Bin’s allegiance to the Third Prince stemmed from a deep-seated resentment toward the new emperor and the audacious actions of the Public House. The new emperor, in particular, harbored grievances, still mourning his late wife and apprehensive about the Public House’s designs on Qin Silong.
Within the narrative, the new emperor emerged as a formidable antagonist, nursing a profound grudge. His plan involved manipulating the Third Prince to dismantle both the new emperor and the Public House, preemptively averting potential future complications and securing a tranquil existence.
In this regard, Qin Zhenzhen and Su Bin shared a common perspective.
A day later, an emissary from the Empress Dowager sought out Su Bin, presenting a substantial reward as a gesture, ostensibly for Su Bin’s son. The conversation swiftly delved into the heart of the matter.
Contrary to the Public House’s narrative, the Grand Empress Dowager’s representatives painted a contrasting picture. They asserted that the new emperor sought to eliminate Su Bin and enjoyed the protection of the Lord State Duke. Conversely, the Empress Dowager’s camp contended that the Lord State Duke aimed to remove Su Bin, finding sanctuary in the new emperor.
Adding complexity to the situation, accusations were hurled at the Public House, branding them as disloyal.
“The Public House currently wields considerable influence, aspiring to manipulate the new emperor as their puppet. The Grand Empress Dowager has identified this issue, but dismantling the Public House proves to be a formidable challenge,” they explained.
“The Public House’s ultimate aim is to seize control of this world.
“However, throughout history, usurping dominion over the world has been deemed an affront to the heavens. Countless calamities are foretold to rain down upon the people, plunging them into profound distress.”
“In the interest of stabilizing the court and ensuring the well-being of the populace, the Empress Dowager resolved to curtail the machinations of the Public House, even at the cost of abandoning her familial ties to it.”
Governor Lin, dispatched by the Empress Dowager, articulated their position with great eloquence.
He asserted that the Empress Dowager and her allies were safeguarding their interests for the greater good of the people. They sought Su Bin’s support by emphasizing the emperor’s role as the Son of Destiny and the guardian of the common folk.
“However, the treasury is in a precarious state, with a significant portion of funds still under the control of the Public House. Therefore, the Empress Dowager urges Governor Su to be prepared. In case of a financial shortfall, she proposes borrowing funds from Governor Su.”
“The Empress Dowager insists that this loan is not without purpose. When the time comes, she pledges to repay Governor Su with interest.”
“Rest assured, your contributions will not go unnoticed. Governor Su, due to your substantial efforts, you are slated to receive considerable rewards, including the possibility of attaining a high-ranking position with a generous salary.”
Internally, Su Bin scoffed at the apparent generosity.
As his wife had warned, they were laying out a tempting proposition. Yet, he couldn’t ignore the possibility that they might turn against him in the future.
The Empress Dowager, in Su Bin’s estimation, was far from virtuous, and the new emperor was even more dubious.
If the Public House were successfully eradicated, Su Bin suspected that the new emperor might be the first to turn on them.
However, adept at playing a role, Su Bin feigned a troubled expression.
Governor Lin misconstrued Su Bin’s demeanor.
“Governor Su, the Empress Dowager acknowledges that the new emperor, being young and easily influenced, may have acted under the sway of the Public House, causing harm to you and Madam Su. She extends her apologies and implores Governor Su not to harbor ill feelings.”
“The Emperor has evolved beyond his past self. He now shoulders the responsibility of ensuring the peace and prosperity of the common people. Rest assured, he understands the boundaries of his actions..