The emperor had been on the throne for twenty years and had seen through many things. By now, he cared little for the character or abilities of his children and grandchildren. Even if he appointed a crown prince, there could only be one. As long as the rest were obedient and useful to him, they were good imperial sons and grandsons!
Originally, the emperor had intended to strip Prince Dai of his military authority. Now, seeing his attitude, he felt that leaving it in Prince Dai's hands might not be a bad thing.
Those two unfilial sons, Prince Qi and Prince Shu, might not be nearly so docile and obedient if they gained military authority.
Keeping Prince Dai down was fine, but his foundations were shallow. Stripped of military authority, he would have no way to keep Prince Qi and Prince Shu in check, or be kept in check by them.
"It is good that you know your mistake. As this is your first offense, I do not intend to pursue it further. Once you have reflected on your conduct, I will entrust you with important duties again." The emperor slowly set down his tea bowl, his expression indifferent.
"Your grandson will engrave Your Majesty's teachings in his heart and reflect on his conduct at home!" Su Ziji kowtowed again and answered earnestly. Then he raised his eyes slightly, looking at the emperor with some hesitation. "Your Majesty..."
Since Su Ziji's earlier behavior had left him reasonably satisfied, the emperor said directly, "Speak!"
"Your grandson ordinarily pays his respects to Her Majesty the Empress every month. Now that I must reflect on my conduct, how could I disturb her again? Here are scriptures I copied by hand. Please have them delivered to her, Your Majesty."
As he spoke, he offered