The Third Prince still tried to struggle. He had barely raised his sword when several Imperial Guards rushed forward, pinned him to the ground, and bound him tightly with ropes. He shouted unwillingly, "Father Emperor! You deceived me! I refuse to accept this!"
At that moment, the palace doors opened, and the Emperor emerged with several Guards behind him.
He looked at the bound Third Prince, his expression calm. "You colluded with foreign enemies, secretly raised troops, and plotted rebellion. I have tolerated you for far too long. If I had not deliberately lured you into acting, I would never have obtained proof of all these crimes."
The Third Prince lowered his head and could no longer say a word. The Imperial Guards dragged him away.
The Emperor walked up to Lin Taichu and smiled. "Taichu, this time, I have you to thank. If you had not drawn the Third Prince's attention, the Imperial Guards would not have been able to surround them so smoothly."
Lin Taichu bowed. "Your Majesty is wise. I merely did what I should have done."
"You have rendered great merit, and I will not treat you unfairly," the Emperor said. "You will remain Commander of the Imperial Guards. In addition, South Mountain Medicine Garden is officially bestowed upon you. From now on, you may take whatever spirit herbs you need from within."
Lin Taichu had just been about to decline when the Emperor added, "There is no need to refuse so quickly. You deserve this. Besides, the prince's residence and Yue'er will need more of your care in the future."
Lin Taichu's heart stirred. He looked up at the Emperor and saw the smile in his eyes, instantly understanding something.
The Imperial Guards quickly finished clearing the scene. All of the Third Prince's remaining followers