Watching his ministers argue endlessly, the emperor rubbed his aching temples. Only after a while did he speak:
"You all make valid points. I must give this matter further consideration. You may all withdraw!"
"Yes, Your Majesty."
The ministers all withdrew from the Imperial Study.
The emperor was torn as well, unsure whether he should believe Song Yaoyao. The earthquake would affect an enormous area. Taking precautions and evacuating the people would be no small undertaking. If they evacuated and no earthquake struck, wouldn't that waste the people's labor and drain the treasury?
Then again, what if he did nothing and the earthquake really struck? By then, it would be too late for regrets!
The emperor dared not even imagine such a hell on earth.
The emperor sat alone for a long time. Just then, Eunuch Wang entered and said:
"Your Majesty, Assistant Minister Song requests an audience."
"Send him in."
"Yes, Your Majesty."
After entering, Assistant Minister Song bowed, then took out the map and said:
"Your Majesty, this is the map my daughter offers you."
Assistant Minister Song did not specify what kind of map it was, but the emperor already knew. He said:
"Bring it here."
Eunuch Wang presented the map to the emperor, who took it and began studying it.
The map was clearly marked. Looking at it on paper made the extent of the earthquake's reach even clearer.
As the emperor studied the map, he recalled what Master Liaoran had once told him: Princess Jiahe was the Heavenly Phoenix Kingdom's lucky star, and he hoped the emperor would make good use of the blessings she brought to benefit the people.
At that thought, the emperor finally made a bold decision: he would believe Song Yaoyao and Guagua. Even if the earthquake did not happen,