Ma Chao had already rebelled. Now the lives of Ma Teng's other two sons hung on a single thought from the Son of Heaven; one word would be enough to send their heads rolling.
He could not help feeling afraid.
Liu Xie saw the apprehension and unease in Ma Teng's heart and said, "I summoned you today because I have something to ask you."
"You previously exchanged letters with Ma Chao, urging him to surrender to the Imperial Court. How did he answer you?"
Faced with Liu Xie's question, Ma Teng answered with a complicated expression, "Your Majesty, that wretched son claimed in his letter that you were being held captive by Duke Wen and Yuan Minister of Works, and therefore refused to surrender."
"A son's failings are his father's fault. Having raised such a disloyal, unfilial son, I truly cannot escape the blame."
"But I beg Your Majesty to spare my remaining two sons and leave a thread of blood to continue the Ma Family. I am willing to atone with my death!"
Ma Teng's voice was heavy with grief and choked with sobs.
He and his two sons had entered Ye City as hostages, yet Ma Chao had openly rebelled. Clearly, he had already cast their lives aside.
Ma Teng deeply regretted leaving Ma Chao behind to command the Western Liang Army, which had brought about this situation.
Now he wanted to exchange his own life for those of his remaining two sons. Even leaving just one alive would do, so long as the Ma Family's line did not end.
Seeing Ma Teng weeping bitterly, Liu Xie knew the moment was about right and said, "Yesterday, the court officials submitted memorials calling for troops to be sent against Ma Chao and the rebel to be executed."
"But I