"You have a point. I cannot throw myself into disorder!" Prince Shu steadied himself, drew a deep breath, and ordered, "Come outside with me and have a look!"
He wanted to see just what Ma Shunde, that slave, could uncover!
Though Prince Shu did not dare claim he had definitely left no loose ends behind, he had always cleaned up thoroughly. He had been more cautious than Prince Qi!
He had once felt that perhaps he had been too timid. If he had gathered his strength to deal with the Imperial Grandson when he had first arrived in the Capital City, none of this would have happened afterward.
But now, he felt that where had he ever been timid?
He had plainly been cautious!
And what was wrong with being cautious?
Ma Shunde led his people straight to the gates of the Prince's Residence. A young eunuch adjusted his robes and crown for him, then bowed and retreated two steps without a word. The scene instantly became so silent that a needle dropping to the ground could have been heard.
Since Prince Shu was the Emperor's own son and had once been favored, Ma Shunde did not wish to offend him too badly. So, after having the Prince's Residence surrounded and ensuring that not a single person could escape, he stood waiting at the gate.
The gatekeeper had already gone in to report. A moment later, Ma Shunde heard footsteps as a group emerged from within. The one surrounded by the others was Prince Shu.
Prince Shu wore a gauze robe in the style of ceremonial court dress, and the silver crown inlaid with pearls made his composed expression shine all the more. The moment their eyes met, Ma Shunde put on a three-part smile. "Your Highness, forgive the offense.