"But how does Your Majesty intend to deal with this man?" Gu Hongxing asked.
Naturally, Duan Ziqian understood what he meant.
"If he sincerely wishes to submit to me, I certainly will not treat him poorly."
Duan Ziqian's voice was icy, his face frosted over.
In years past, Duan Ziqian would naturally have trusted Jiang Zhizhou's character without question.
But now, to him, Jiang Zhizhou was gradually becoming a chicken rib.
Tasteless to eat, yet a pity to discard.
Although Duan Ziqian knew Jiang Zhizhou's abilities well, a capable man who refused to submit to him was no better than a useless one, however talented he might be.
Hearing Duan Ziqian's words, Duan Hongxing formed a plan in his heart.
He said no more, merely replying, "Since Your Majesty has matters in hand, your subject will defer to you in all things."
Duan Ziqian gave Duan Hongxing several looks, but in the end, he did not voice the question weighing on his heart.
Duan Hongxing acted as though he had not noticed the unusual thoughts in the emperor's eyes. After bowing to Duan Ziqian, he took his leave.
Duan Ziqian watched his figure disappear and pondered for a long while before summoning the personal guard beside him.
"Take this to the Marquis of Anguo's Heir Apparent."
Duan Ziqian removed the thumb ring he always wore and placed it in the guard's hand.
Jiang Zhizhou stared absently at the thumb ring in his palm.
He recognized it.
Indeed, he knew it very well.
"This thumb ring is exquisitely translucent, with a clear emerald luster. It is certainly no ordinary piece."
Yang Qing's voice suddenly sounded beside Jiang Zhizhou.
When Jiang Zhizhou turned, Yang Qing abruptly smiled. "I wonder what that young emperor intends with this gesture?"
Jiang Zhizhou was thoroughly displeased