Prince Zhongshun's Mansion.
The fragrance of ink filled the study. A man in his early fifties, dressed in a python robe, held a brush and sketched a theatrical face pattern. He had thick brows, a square face, and a neatly trimmed beard, with an imposing, formidable bearing.
"Your Highness."
A beautiful woman whose charms had not faded approached gracefully, her brilliantly colored skirts trailing along the floor. She was the Princess Consort.
Her red lips parted as she said:
"The Pacification Commissioner surnamed Jia has reached the Capital and is heading straight for the Imperial City."
The Prince of Zhongshun did not even raise his head. He said flatly:
"A vicious dog raised by our Jiang Family. After borrowing the dragon's might for so long, he actually dares confront his master. I've told my nephew Qi'er to slap him before everyone's eyes. A vicious dog that bites its master must be taught a harsh lesson!"
The Princess Consort's lips curled slightly. Intrigued, she asked:
"I am rather curious. The wedding is tomorrow. What trouble could he possibly stir up?"
The Prince of Zhongshun set down the Wolf-Hair Brush and said calmly:
"He'll simply spread out his record of achievements to put His Majesty on the spot, leaving him embarrassed and unable to back down. If His Majesty refuses to cancel the marriage, this vicious dog will defect to the Eastern Palace."
"We must admit that the vicious dog is exceptionally capable. The Retired Emperor will certainly accept him."
"Once the Retired Emperor intervenes forcefully, the Empress Dowager's Edict will be annulled. In plain terms, he'll beg first, then immediately turn traitor if that fails."
The Princess Consort nodded repeatedly, admiration shining in her eyes.
"Your Highness holds the pearl of wisdom in your grasp!"
Across court and country, few could