After witnessing this, He Jingzhong and Earl Wenyuan were so terrified they nearly lost their wits. They didn't dare stay there any longer and hurried back to their respective homes.
Both men had the same idea: they had to hurry and arrange for their sons to have children. No matter which of them had a child first, it would make no difference to their families.
Neither of them knew that their troubles were only just beginning.
The palace, Wuying Hall,
After Emperor Liang heard a minister report what had happened at King Yama Hall outside the city, his feelings were complicated.
He was extremely glad he hadn't ordered anyone to force their way into King Yama Hall, but he was also deeply frustrated. It might be very difficult for him to get in touch with them now.
Just as he was growing irritable, a censor suddenly spoke up. "Your Majesty, I have a memorial to present!"
Emperor Liang looked down and saw that the censor was on the Crown Prince's side. He couldn't help but rub his forehead. His son was far too impatient.
He understood what the censor wanted to do. After a moment's hesitation, he decided that Prince Yu's influence had grown too powerful and needed to be trimmed back.
Besides, ever since He Jingzhong had sided with Prince Yu, he had helped him install a great many people in important positions. If He Jingzhong were allowed to carry on for a few more years, there might be no choice left but to make Prince Yu emperor.
He certainly didn't want the Imperial Throne to pass to someone with the blood of the Hua clan.
Having made up his mind, he asked solemnly, "Speak!"
With permission granted, the censor seemed encouraged. He immediately raised a memorial and said,