But they felt only envy, not jealousy.
For Yuan Xi had traded the entire Yuan Clan's wealth for that reputation. They would never dare do such a thing; only Yuan Xi, desperate to restore the Yuan Clan's good name, would act this way.
As everyone discussed it, a company of Feathered Forest Guards poured out through the city gate to clear a path, followed closely by the Son of Heaven's Dragon Carriage.
"Your servant respectfully welcomes Your Majesty!"
Yuan Xi was the first to hurry forward and perform a full ceremonial bow before the Dragon Carriage. The officials present and the surrounding commoners also knelt and kowtowed toward it.
Liu Xie stepped down from the Dragon Carriage. At the sight, he smiled faintly and said, "There is still snow on the ground. Kneeling too long will give you a chill. Rise, all of you."
This showed the skill in his choice of words.
It was only a simple remark, yet to the officials and commoners who heard it, it brought warmth to their hearts-this was concern from the Son of Heaven himself!
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
Everyone rose to their feet.
Liu Xie glanced over the officials and the many commoners around them and said, "Today is the great day for establishing the Good Deeds Stele. But before that, I would like to say a few words."
At these words, the entire gathering fell silent.
Every gaze settled on Liu Xie.
Liu Xie sighed softly, then slowly began, "Since Dong Zhuo threw the government into chaos, the flames of war have raged without end across the realm, and the lords have carved it into their own domains. The altars of soil and grain have been reduced to ruins, and the people have suffered as though mired in mud and burning