The Imperial Garden.
Emperor Jingde flew into a towering rage.
Was harming an emperor's personal interests while earning merit for the state the act of a loyal minister?
A treacherous villain!
In loyalty to sovereign and country, the sovereign came first!
Empress Yin's phoenix eyes were icy as she said coldly:
"Your Majesty, it is time to make up your mind!"
"He knew full well that Li Rangzhi held an irreplaceable place in Your Majesty's heart, that Li Rangzhi could keep the Prince of Zhennan in check, and that this would enrage Your Majesty. Yet he still ran rampant without restraint, openly wagging his tail and begging the Eastern Palace for favor, all while challenging Your Majesty's dignity and trampling your limits!"
She paused briefly, then softened her voice and said gently:
"I say this out of no selfish motive, nor do I presume to meddle in affairs of state. My heart simply aches for Your Majesty. You supported him with all your strength, only to suffer his shameless betrayal."
"I humbly beseech Your Majesty to strike with thunderous force and excise this abscess clinging to the bone!"
Emperor Jingde turned to look at her.
"On what charge?"
"Jia Huan's wings are fully grown now, and his reputation resounds throughout court and country. By continually rooting out corrupt ministers, he has won great renown among the people. Add to that his heroic rescue of Northern Liang's people-who under heaven does not know this nineteen-year-old Pacification Commissioner?"
"Even in the Jianghu and Martial World, which I despise most, he enjoys boundless glory!"
"Not to mention that old bastard deigning to visit the Rongguo Mansion. That was a declaration of his position to the Central Court!"
"Every campaign needs a justifiable cause. Where is the crime?"
Empress Yin remained silent, disappointment rising