"And according to secret leads uncovered through the Ten Thousand Treasures Commerce's extensive inquiries, there was more to the Lin Family's supposed dereliction of duty case than met the eye. It was not as simple as the court's ruling made it seem. In truth, the case was connected to Prince Gao's Manor's private holdings in Blackwater Commandery."
The hall instantly fell silent, wisps of Dragon Saliva Incense slowly rising.
Prince Gao's previously relaxed shoulders stiffened slightly, and his narrow eyes narrowed further. His earlier indifference finally gave way to a hint of seriousness.
His fingertips tapped lightly against the throne's armrest, the slow rhythm carrying a barely perceptible chill.
After a moment, Prince Gao spoke slowly, his voice betraying neither pleasure nor anger. "Oh? What do you mean by that? How could an old case from so many years ago involve my manor's holdings?"
Ancestor Wanbao remained composed and cupped his hands. "Back then, the Lin Family was ordered to inspect Blackwater Commandery and inadvertently discovered that many of the manor's local businesses were violating the law and oppressing the common people. Not long afterward, local officials colluded with other officials in Your Highness's faction to frame the Lin Family elders, causing numerous problems to appear in their inspection findings."
Ancestor Wanbao glanced up at Prince Gao's now frosty expression before continuing.
"Moreover, according to my investigation, when the Lin Family's case was tried at court, Your Highness advocated a harsh sentence under the law-the execution of the entire family!"
As those words fell, the air grew even quieter.
Prince Gao fell silent for a moment, the corner of his mouth twitching slightly, before he said slowly, "The manor has too many holdings. I scarcely remember those businesses in Blackwater Town, and I paid them no attention at the time.