Yin Pobai froze when the Peng Family Head suddenly stepped out and called for him to stop.
But he paid little attention and continued outside, carrying the Si Family Head.
The Peng Family Head had already bowed low. "Your Majesty, this subject has something to say."
Zi Shou was intrigued. If the Peng Family Head came out with some earth-shattering statement and offered up his own head as well, today would be an absolute windfall!
Clearly, killing just the Si Family Head was not enough in this situation.
A foolish ruler could kill arbitrarily, but killing too many people would make him a tyrant. Besides, if he killed them all, who would contribute foolishness value?
Driving the nobles into outright rebellion would make his throne rather shaky. Killing just one more would be perfect.
With a calm expression, Zi Shou said, "Speak freely. I have never punished anyone for their words."
The Peng Family Head choked on what he had been about to say. Hadn't the Si Family Head just been convicted of recklessly discussing court affairs? And that charge had only just been invented...
Zi Shou said, "Go on. I grant you immunity from death."
After hesitating for a long while, the Peng Family Head finally said, "This subject believes that the Si Family Head's offense does not warrant death."
His offense did not warrant death!
The tearful nobles all drew sharp breaths. What righteousness the Peng Family Head possessed!
Everyone knew that the Si Family Head was certain to die, and that his death would be a gruesome one, perhaps even a public execution. It would not merely kill him, but strip away the nobles' most exalted mantle.
They sympathized, lamented, and seethed with resentment, yet none dared step forward to plead for the Si Family Head, because