Why had it turned out this way?
How had a worthy man, both loyal and filial, become a villain who was neither?
The civil and military officials pondered this for a long time.
They still believed King Pingling's filial devotion came from the heart.
Yao and Shun had both been filial sons, and in their own age, Ji Chang, Ji Fa, and Bo Yikao were renowned far and wide for their filial piety.
Besides, everyone had a fairly good impression of King Pingling. The ministers were more inclined to believe his filial conduct was sincere rather than a show.
The memorial was worded with such earnest sincerity that it brought their own mothers to mind. What a picture of a loving mother and a devoted son it painted!
Yang Ren frowned. Surely this was a good thing. Once it was accomplished, couldn't they publicize it widely and turn it into Chinese opera to hasten the elimination of the problems posed by the feudal lords?
Yang Ren said, "Your Majesty, King Pingling is deeply filial. Your words are somewhat excessive."
Zi Shou said solemnly, "When something strays from the ordinary, there must be a demon at work. Have you considered this? Though this memorial is rich in feeling and expression, the matter is of great importance. Why is there not even an envoy? Why only a memorial? King Pingling has a wolf's ambition. There must be a plot behind this!"
After repeated consideration, Yang Ren felt that was possible too, so he asked, "Your subject is dull-witted. What plot might there be?"
The ministers waited eagerly. They all knew King Zhou's intelligence and strategic insight.
Yet Zi Shou suddenly fell silent.
A plot?
I haven't made one up yet.
Who knows whether King Pingling is actually a rebel?
*I just want