First update
Every time he saw Prince Zhongshun, there were always beautiful women by his side.
This time was no exception.
Could this Absurd Prince have forced himself on respectable women?
At the thought, Sun Shaozong felt a headache coming on. No matter what, he was the Vice Minister of Dali Temple. If Prince Zhongshun truly committed a crime right before his eyes, he would have no choice but to have it out with him.
However...
A closer look revealed that the two women wore quite a few precious pearls and jade ornaments in their hair. The styles and quality of those accessories were likely beyond the means of any ordinary household.
They were more likely concubines from the Prince's Mansion.
"They're here."
If that was truly the case, then heaven had finally opened its eyes!
Thinking this with malicious delight, Sun Shaozong cupped his hands and bowed. "This official pays his respects to Your Highness."
After a slight pause, he added, "May I ask why Your Highness summoned this official? What guidance do you have for me?"
Had it been two years ago, "guidance" would certainly have been replaced with "orders."
But now, the two brothers had successively earned military merit and gradually established their footing at court, while Prince Zhongshun's influence had only declined with each passing year.
Since the gap in their positions had narrowed to a certain extent, the groveling "orders" had naturally evolved into the more equal "guidance."
Prince Zhongshun did not take issue with the change in wording. He lazily raised his chin and commanded imperiously, "Carry these two out. All of you, leave."
Five or six guards immediately emerged from the curtains hanging on either side. They spread out a Persian Carpet on the floor, then pulled the two women off Prince Zhongshun