Duan Yanxing controlled part of the Imperial Guards. At the critical moment, he only needed to lean slightly in one direction, then he could declare that the Emperor was gravely ill and that there was an edict establishing him as Crown Prince.
"You handled this matter well. Go collect ten taels of silver. This is my reward for your meritorious service." Prince Qi withdrew his thoughts and said to Steward Chen.
"This lowly servant thanks Your Highness for the reward!" Steward Chen knelt and gave thanks.
Though the reward was only ten taels of silver, being rewarded by the prince meant he had done the right thing. To earn the prince's trust and regard—now that was the reward he liked most.
A master's trust and regard meant power. And with power, with Prince Qi standing behind him, how much silver could he fail to rake in?
"Your Highness, I have noticed that Duan Qin of the Duan Residence often drinks tea at the teahouse. Should I make further contact with him? I can meet him again later?" Steward Chen's heart burned hot as he cautiously asked.
Prince Qi glanced at him. He had only just thought this servant knew how to handle matters, when the man's stupidity left him speechless again.
Still, he did not hold Steward Chen's words against him. After all, if even a minor steward in his residence could see through the essence of the matter and become too clever, he would instead have cause for concern.
With a snort, he merely said blandly, "You may keep in touch with that man in the future. But a man surnamed Duan will not board the boat so easily. I fear you will be turned away at a closed door."
"What are you saying, Your Highness? This servant belongs