The hundred officials were long practiced at reading expressions and gauging moods. Besides, many had long been dissatisfied with Shao Pingbo receiving favor for no reason at all. Seeing the Emperor's reaction, it was obvious he was unhappy with this marriage candidate. Just moments ago, he had asked whether everyone was willing to share His Majesty's burdens—so why was it unacceptable once it came to Shao Pingbo? His Majesty actually favored and trusted Shao Pingbo so greatly. Everyone grew even more dissatisfied!
"Wonderful!" someone suddenly praised loudly. "Your Majesty, this truly is the best of both worlds. This minister begs Your Majesty to approve this marriage!"
"Your Majesty, the Princess is right. Lord Shao is the party involved. If he marries the Princess, the rumors will collapse without being attacked!"
"Your Majesty, Lord Shao has received Your Majesty's favor and should share Your Majesty's burdens!"
"Your Majesty's chosen man cannot be wrong. Lord Shao is a young talent, and he and the Princess are a handsome man and beautiful woman—a fine match indeed!"
"Your Majesty, since Your Majesty personally promised the Princess, a ruler's word is no jest. You must not go back on it!"
"Your Majesty, where is Lord Shao? Why not summon him to court and ask him face-to-face what he thinks?"
The man who said that was ignorant. Shao Pingbo was not in the capital at all. The several leading ministers, however, remained silent, exchanging glances. They knew these people's intentions were malicious. As long as Shao Pingbo was summoned to court, after everyone had agreed to share the ruler's burdens and marry her, how could Shao Pingbo possibly refuse? They were trying to force Shao Pingbo to agree.
Although the leading ministers were also quite dissatisfied with His Majesty's excessive favor toward Shao Pingbo, they were