Xue Shengjing nodded slowly. "That must be it. Daoming isn't happy with this marriage. The Worthy Consort wanted to climb onto a higher branch, but she never expected His Majesty to arrange a marriage alliance with Great Kang. Becoming Great Kang's son-in-law may look glorious on the surface, but unfortunately, it brings no real benefits."
Ma Qingyun said, "There are many rumors circulating among the people. They all say His Majesty agreed to this marriage because he intends to pass the throne to the Seventh Prince."
Xue Shengjing chuckled. "Rumors are fearsome things. The Worthy Consort is no simple woman, either. I think she's deliberately spreading this story to help her son. This is what you call creating a smokescreen. Think about it-who would be most alarmed by this news?"
Ma Qingyun said, "The First Prince, of course."
A cold smile touched Xue Shengjing's lips.
Just then, an announcement came from outside the door. Tie Zheng had returned after seeing their guest out.
Xue Shengjing could not help scratching his crotch again.
Tie Zheng said, "Your Highness, he has left."
Xue Shengjing said, "Didn't you tell me he was just a little eunuch from the palace? Nothing more?"
Tie Zheng hastily bowed and cupped his fists. "Please forgive me, Your Highness. He is only the delegation's Deputy Marriage Envoy. Someone else is in charge-the Minister of Rites, Wu Jingshan."
Xue Shengjing said, "A little eunuch who can win the Great Kang emperor's favor, with no status or backing, and survive to this day at such a young age-that alone proves he is no ordinary fellow. Tie Zheng! How good was his guard's archery outside the gate just now?"
Tie Zheng's face grew hot, and he lowered his head even farther. "Your Highness, that man's archery was outstanding. Even in our