Gate of God

Chapter 524: This guy is mad Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

The atmosphere in the palace felt extremely tense. It was difficult to tell if it was because of what Shan Yu said, or because of her rage. 　 Fang Zhengzhi didn’t look at Lin Tianrong. He smiled at Shan Yu, “What if I told you it was?” 　 “What?!” 　　 The crowd was in uproar. 　 Why would Fang Zhengzhi say that? Even if he talked in hypotheticals, this was also equivalent to pushing the blame to the Crown Prince. 　 Such audacity… 　 “Is he really trying to push this to the Crown Prince?”

“He could be executed for this!” 　 “Well… he would be executed anyways… right?”

The crowd looked at each other, eyes on the verge of popping out of their sockets.

The officials standing behind the Crown Prince were equally shocked. They were not shocked by Fang Zhengzhi’s audacity…

They were shocked that Fang Zhengzhi would say such a thing with no evidence on hand.

However, they did not say anything. They simply looked at Shan Yu and waited for her reply.

“You bloody b*stard, how dare you accuse the Crown Prince?” Shan Yu replied in fury.

“This isn’t a false accusation. You will find out the truth if you investigate it but would you dare to?” Fang Zhengzhi replied calmly. 　　 “Why won’t I?”

“Okay then, what if you find out that the Crown Prince was guilty?”

“If what you said is true, I will fight for justice till my very last breath! But if you lie to me, I will kill you where you stand!” Shan Yu replied ferociously.

“Good! We will do as you say!” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and turned to look at the Crown Prince, “Your Highness, what do you say?” 　 “Rubbish! Fang Zhengzhi, how dare you slander me? It is a heinous crime to sabotage relations with our valuable allies!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong couldn’t take it any longer.

He bellowed when he heard Fang Zhengzhi’s question. 　　 He didn’t even wait for the officials behind him to speak.

“Your Highness, do you have a guilty conscience?” Fang Zhengzhi smirked and asked when he saw the Crown Prince lose his cool. 　 “Your Highness…” 　 “Your Highness, don’t let him get to you!”

“Yes, he is just spouting rubbish, why bother with him?”

The officials were slightly anxious when they saw the Crown Prince confront Fang Zhengzhi.

“Humph, I know that I am innocent. This case was closed over a year ago! You killed Shan Ling. Why would I falsely accuse you?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong peeked at Emperor Lin Mubai and he clenched his fists. 　 “Your Highness, what evidence do you have?” Fang Zhengzhi asked.

“Evidence?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned. The case had been closed over a year ago. 　 Fang Zhengzhi should be the one to provide evidence to reopen the case. The burden of proof was not on him. 　　 However, he still grit his teeth.

“Official Su was the only one who was there. Furthermore, I was stabbed by you! There is a witness and physical evidence. What more can you say for yourself?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong added.

“I’m afraid not. Your Highness, you are now a suspect as well. According to the law, you cannot testify against me. What physical evidence do you have?” Fang Zhengzhi replied. 　 “Are you trying to wiggle your way out of this?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was furious.

“The law clearly states that a judgment cannot be passed based solely on a human witness. Am I wrong?” Fang Zhengzhi added. 　　 The expressions of all the officials changed at that moment.

They couldn’t possibly stop the confrontation between Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and Fang Zhengzhi. Furthermore, Fang Zhengzhi was right. If Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was a suspect, there was only one witness to the crime.

Under such circumstances… 　　 A judgment could not be passed.

That being said, who would have suspected that the Crown Prince would kill Shan Ling? 　　 Things were changing much too quickly.

The officials remained silent and the Crown Prince grit his teeth. He couldn’t tolerate being questioned by a peasant.

This was a direct challenge to his authority.

“Fang Zhengzhi, you claim that the Crown Prince killed Shan Ling. What motive would he have? If he did not have a motive, why would he murder Shan Ling?” One of the officials stepped forward when he saw the look the Crown Prince shot at him. 　 The other officials recovered quickly when they heard this. Their eyes brightened up instantly.

“Exactly, why would the Crown Prince kill Shan Ling? That is a ridiculous accusation!”

“Official Li is right!”

“He can’t be a suspect if he doesn’t have any reasonable motive. Fang Zhengzhi, don’t try to fool us!”

The officials began to step forward and berate Fang Zhengzhi.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong heaved a sigh of relief. If not for the fact that the official had stepped forward, he would have completely forgotten about this.

By law, he couldn’t be a suspect if he didn’t have anything to gain from the murder.

“Well done, Fang Zhengzhi! You nearly made me fall into your trap!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong smirked. He did have a motive for killing Shan Ling.

However…

No one would dare to say it. 　　 Shan Ling wanted to be an Emperor. 　 Crown Prince Lin Tianrong would never let him live. He would only cause more trouble if he took over the leadership of the Southern Region one day. The Crown Prince had decided to kill him the moment he met Shan Ling in the Iron Hill Settlement.

However, this was a huge crime! He needed a valid reason or a good scapegoat.

Fang Zhengzhi provided him with both.

Violating the Princess!

Then, having gained Shan Ling’s trust, he would kill him and pin it on Fang Zhengzhi. He would gain so much in this one maneuver.

However, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong never expected that Shan Ling would release Fang Zhengzhi before his death.

This…

Was what resulted in today’s stalemate.

“Fang Zhengzhi, you are the one with the motive to kill Shan Ling!” The official who had stepped forward first spoke up once again. 　 The crowd and the surrounding officials nodded their agreement.

Fang Zhengzhi had violated the Princess.

This gave him a reason to kill Shan Ling. Furthermore, Lin Tianrong had no reason to kill Shan Ling. Fang Zhengzhi was the clear suspect here.

“Fang Zhengzhi, what do you have to say for yourself?”

“You claimed to be Fang Zhengzheng at the city gates. Now, you are admitting to both the crime and your identity. You can’t run anymore!”

“Men! Arrest this criminal!”

The officials began shouting when they saw that Fang Zhengzhi was silent.

“Who dares?!” Ping Yang’s voice rang out, her red and golden dress dancing in the wind. She looked at all the officials. 　　 “Your Highness, this case is clear as day…”

“Yes, why are you protecting him, your highness?”

“Let the law do its thing.”

The officials knew that Ping Yang was domineering and that she was a bully. However, they were not prepared to let Fang Zhengzhi off.

Over the past 10 days… 　　 Wan Chong had been incarcerated…

Then, the trail of letters had sent many of them into panic. Afterward, Left Prime Minister Yu Yiping and two Assistant Ministers of Law had been arrested. Minister of War Shen Ming was also kneeling at the Ten Mile Lake. 　　 This told them one thing…

Fang Zhengzhi had prepared for his return to the capital.

No one knew who his next target was, but they knew that they would feel safer without him around.

“Your Highness, please move aside. Young Master Yan… I am sure Prince Yan doesn’t know about what you did today!” The officials closed in. 　　 Crown Prince Lin Tianrong smirked. 　 The courts.

This was not a place for the peasants. He had already solidified his position in the courts over the past year. 　 Fang Zhengzhi would not be able to topple him so easily.

“Naive!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled. He could already foresee Fang Zhengzhi’s fate. 　　 Once Fang Zhengzhi was in jail, he had 101 ways to kill him. 　　 Even if the Minister of Law was Wen Chuan and not Wan Chong…

He would still be able to make things happen.

As long as he was still the Crown Prince, he would be able to ensure that Wan Chong and Yu Yiping would not be convicted.

Princess Shan Yu turned to look at Fang Zhengzhi, her eyes filled with panic. She could guess what Fang Zhengzhi was planning.

She had tried her best to follow his plan.

However, just as they were about to succeed…

This had happened. This was something that she did not expect and could not have predicted.

“What do I do now?” Princess Shan Yu began to weigh her options. Could she call for his arrest?

Yan Xiu’s body was surrounded by a red aura.

A red light began flickering at his fingertips. He could see the position Fang Zhengzhi was in. In fact, Fang Zhengzhi had excluded him from this plan.

Fang Zhengzhi didn’t even greet him when he walked out of the crowd.

Yan Xiu had no way of knowing what Fang Zhengzhi’s trump card was. He also had no idea if Fang Zhengzhi had a way to get himself out of this.

“Yes, I did have a motive to and the Crown Prince didn’t!” Fang Zhengzhi turned to look at the officials. 　　 “Since you admit to it, why aren’t you surrendering?!”

“Do you really want to see the Princess and Young Master Yan commit a crime because of you?”

“This case is closed. There is nothing more that you can say.”

The officials smirked as they said this. Fang Zhengzhi was a dead man walking.

At that moment, a figure stepped forward from the line of officials. His eyes were glittering. 　　 This was Chi Hou of the Divine Constabulary.

“Fang Zhengzhi, everyone knows that you were a key factor in the victory in the Southern Region. You may have killed Shan Ling in a moment of impulse, but if you surrender now and ask for forgiveness, you may still live!” Chi Hou’s voice reverberated throughout the palace.

The crowd fell silent when they heard this. They all knew how important Fang Zhengzhi was in the battle.

Even if Fang Zhengzhi had killed the Crown Prince of the Southern Region by accident, one couldn’t ignore all of his contributions. 　　 Furthermore…

Shan Yu had said so herself.

She did not strike Fang Zhengzhi down where he stood because of what he did. Shan Yu did not plan on executing Fang Zhengzhi.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s eyes glowed icily when he heard this. Chi Hou sounded as though he was asking Fang Zhengzhi to stand down. 　　 However, he was effectively throwing Fang Zhengzhi a lifeline.

“Yes, Fang Zhengzhi did contribute much to our victory in the Southern Region. However, the law is impartial! He will have to die for his crimes! He killed the Crown Prince of the Southern Region! That is a heinous crime!” The Crown Prince had no intention of letting Fang Zhengzhi live.

“The Crown Prince is right! The country must be governed by law and order! We will reward him for his contributions but he must be punished for his crimes! They cannot cancel each other out.”

“Yes, they must be treated separately!”

“A murderer must die for his crimes. Even if the Queen of the Southern Region is merciful, we cannot let a murderer run free in our lands!”

Countless officials stood forward to push the Crown Prince’s arguments.

Chi Hou frowned. Just as he was about to step forward and say something else, he noticed that Fang Zhengzhi was smiling radiantly.

“Why is this guy smiling when he is staring death in the face?” Chi Hou couldn’t understand it. Even though he wasn’t close to Fang Zhengzhi, he did not want to see Fang Zhengzhi die this way.

At that moment, Fang Zhengzhi’s voice rang out. 　 “Yes, the murderer should die for his crimes. A country must be anchored in law and order. This man should be executed even if the Queen of the Southern Region decides to be merciful!” Fang Zhengzhi smiled. 　　 However…

Chi Hou was stunned.

“Has this guy lost his mind?”

Chapter 525: The final piece of the puzzle Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

Chi Hou was not alone. Wen Dabao, Yan Xiu, and even Ping Yang and Shan Yu were equally stunned. 　 At this time…

Shouldn’t he be asking for mercy?

Executed! 　 Was he trying to court death? 　　 Chi Hou looked at Fang Zhengzhi in confusion. He couldn’t tell if Fang Zhengzhi had lost his mind or if he truly had a death wish. 　 Or had he simply given up?

The crowd also looked at each other in shock and confusion. 　　 “Is he crazy?”

“I heard that people do stupid things when faced with overwhelming pressure!” 　 “Mm, I’ve heard of that happening too!” 　 The crowd stared at the smiling Fang Zhengzhi. The only reason that they could think of was that he had lost his mind. 　 The officials chuckled when they heard this.

Even though they didn’t know why Fang Zhengzhi had said such a thing, they knew that Fang Zhengzhi had sealed his own fate.

As for Emperor Lin Mubai’s attitude…

The officials couldn’t figure it out but based on how Emperor Lin Mubai had reacted just now…

It looked as though he wanted to spare Fang Zhengzhi’s life.

However, with what had just been said, it would be difficult for Emperor Lin Mubai to save Fang Zhengzhi.

“Very good, Fang Zhengzhi! You are a man for owning up to your actions! If you surrender now, I can consider showing you some mercy and keeping your body whole!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled.

He was about to put an end to something that had bothered him for over a year. Once Fang Zhengzhi was dead, there was nothing that could threaten his position. 　 “Surrender? Why should I surrender?” Fang Zhengzhi asked. 　 “Are you trying to resist? Haha… you’re a crippled man. Even if you had your abilities one year ago, you would not be able to get out of the city!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled.

“Your Highness, you make a good point. Since I am crippled, how could I possibly be a murderer?” Fang Zhengzhi smirked. 　 “What are you saying?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong squinted.

“Yes, I had a reason and the motivation to kill Shan Ling, but I did not have the ability to. How can someone who doesn’t have the ability to kill, kill?” Fang Zhengzhi added. 　 “Humph, I knew that you would use this reason to defend yourself!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled icily. “Everyone on the battlefield that day can testify that you stopped Ping Yang’s attack with your hand. Do you deny it?” 　 Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s gaze was icy. 　 All of the officials smiled when they heard this. Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had furnished them with the necessary details and evidence.

They already had a counter prepared for this reason.

Ping Yang’s expression changed.

She had participated in the battle. Fang Zhengzhi had stopped her attack with his hand after his duel with Canyang.

“I didn’t use my full strength when I struck…”

“Your Highness, you are right.” Fang Zhengzhi knew what Ping Yang was about to say but he nodded before she could finish.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong beamed radiantly when he heard this. Ping Yang’s reason would never hold. There were too many witnesses then.

“Yes, this proves that you had the ability to kill Shan Ling back then. Even though your pocket dimension may have been destroyed, you still had some residual energy from the duel!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong asserted.

“Yes, the Crown Prince is right!” 　　 “You can forget about using that as an excuse.”

“Fang Zhengzhi, you will not live past today! The law is impartial and fair! You said so yourself!” 　 The officials chimed in.

“Did I say that I couldn’t kill him because of my cultivation state?” Fang Zhengzhi replied with disdain. 　 “What do you mean?”

“Do you have any other reason?” 　　 “What is this guy trying to do?”

None of the officials knew where Fang Zhengzhi was going with this.

“What I meant was, I had absolutely no energy to even try and kill Shan Ling.” Fang Zhengzhi turned to look at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong. 　 “No energy? What do you mean?” The officials were all stunned. 　　 They looked at each other in confusion, unable to figure out where Fang Zhengzhi was going with this. After all, not many of them were in the Southern Region during the battle.

Xing Yuanguo was one of them.

The others were Princess Ping Yang, Chi Guyan, and the previous Minister of Rites. 　 The former Minister of Rites had been ‘killed in action’. Xing Yuanguo, Ping Yang, and Chi Guyan had returned to the capital immediately after the battle. 　 In other words…

The only people left in the Southern Region were Crown Prince Lin Tianrong, Fang Zhengzhi, and the other candidates. Nangong Hao was not there either.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s body jerked when he heard this. He could guess where Fang Zhengzhi was going with this. 　　 However, he managed to regain his composure quickly. 　　 That was not an easy thing to prove.

“Fang Zhengzhi, you did have quite a bit to drink that day! Even though you were drunk, you still have to take responsibility for your actions!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong clenched his fists. 　　 Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had prepared well for the poisoning. At the banquet, he had spoken highly of Fang Zhengzhi and asked the candidates and generals to toast him. 　　 Having drunk that much, it was only natural for Fang Zhengzhi to be drunk and lose his awareness…

It was not too far-fetched that he would enter the wrong room and climb into Princess Shan Yu’s bed. 　 Then…

All he had to do was have Shan Ling catch Fang Zhengzhi.

That night, all of the generals and candidates present had witnessed how much Fang Zhengzhi drank. It was only normal that he had lost consciousness.

As for the next morning…

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong allowed the candidates to take point and prove themselves whilst he escorted Fang Zhengzhi at the rear of the convoy.

That way, no one else would know if Fang Zhengzhi had ‘woken up’ from his ‘drunken stupor’.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong calmed down when he heard this.

After all, not many people knew about the poisoning. Shan Ling, who had administered the poison, was dead whilst Su Qing was far away from the capital. 　 “Your Highness, you claim that I was drunk?” Fang Zhengzhi chuckled. 　 “Yes!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong nodded. 　 “I remember that the Crown Prince had wanted to try the food made by the current Queen of the Southern Region. Am I right?” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and added. 　 “So what if that is true?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s tone was icy. There were many witnesses that day so there was no point in denying it.

Furthermore, he didn’t think that this fact would help Fang Zhengzhi’s case. 　 “I wonder if you would like to have a taste of it now?” Fang Zhengzhi stared at the Crown Prince.

“What do you mean?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression changed

“The lamb would be killed on the spot and would be killed with the same techniques using the same ingredients. Would you dare to try it?” Fang Zhengzhi turned to look at Shan Yu.

“You…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had a bad feeling about this. Just as he was about to say something, he swallowed his words at the last possible moment.

The Southern Region soldiers stepped to the side.

At the same time, four heavily armored Southern Region soldiers carried a lamb over.

When he saw this…

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong began to panic.

He could guess what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to do. He was trying to reenact the scene! But how was that possible?

Shan Ling had administered the poison.

However, that happened more than a year ago. He had slipped that poison into the spices! How could that still be present in the meat?

Then, his eyes widened in disbelief.

Shan Yu, Queen of the Southern Region, reaches behind her and retrieved a leather pouch.

“I still remember the Crown Prince’s request a year ago. I kept all the ingredients I used back then. If you don’t mind, I can cook the lamb again for you!” Shan Yu opened the bag, revealing the multicolored spices inside.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong paled.

He had guessed what was about to happen when the Southern Region soldiers brought the lamb over.

However, he never expected that they would have kept a portion of the ingredients from back then.

“Your Highness, this is too valuable a gift. You have traveled far and long. I simply cannot accept!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s eyes glimmered icily. 　　 “It’s no bother. This is a gift I prepared specially for you!” Flames danced in Shan Yu’s eyes as she looked at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

“You are in a different position than you were a year ago. I really cannot accept!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong grit his teeth. 　 “No matter how different my position may be, I am still a citizen of the Great Xia. You do not need to be so formal and polite with me!” Shan Yu insisted. 　 “Do you really want to do this?!” 　 “Of course!”

“What if I choose not to eat it?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s gaze was icy. 　　 “That would be an insult to me and the culture of the Southern Region. We would have no other choice but to return to the Southern Region immediately!” Shan Yu asserted.

“Hahaha… what are you talking about? Why would I ever look down on your culinary skills? Please… continue!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s knuckles whitened.

“Thank you!” Shan Yu’s hands moved and the leather robe flew into the air and landed on the ground.

At that moment, two daggers appeared in Shan Yu’s had. 　 At that moment, fiery red cloud patterns began to spread all over her body. 　 This was an awe-inspiring sight.

Members of the crowd couldn’t believe their eyes.

“Is this how the Queen of the Southern Region cultivates?”

“I heard that they cultivate blood and bloodline. Is that her blood?”

“No, that is definitely not as simple as blood!”

The crowd began to whisper amongst themselves in awe and curiosity as they observed the cloud patterns on Shan Yu’s skin. 　　 All of the officials were in shock.

They were just talking about Fang Zhengzhi’s case. How did it lead to a ‘gift’ for the Crown Prince?

Did this lamb have something to do with the case?

The crowd couldn’t understand what was happening. They turned to look at some of the recently appointed officials.

These officials, many of whom were in the court examinations and the war, were shaking their heads.

After all, none of them had managed to try the lamb back then.

…

Shan Yu’s hands moved quickly. Before long, she had butchered the lamb.

Then, the bonfire was started.

It was just about noon and the sun was nearing its peak.

The officials and citizens couldn’t understand how things had come to this. However, they continued to watch in amazement as Shan Yu danced around the fire.

With every step she took, the flames on her body became more intense. It was almost as though she was a fire elf.

Elegant and animalistic. She was extremely attractive.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong squinted as he watched Shan Yu. His gaze was icy.

Fang Zhengzhi was watching as well. However, he seemed extremely relaxed. He even described the meat to Yan Xiu.

“Crispy skin! The meat is so tender it melts in your mouth. Most importantly, the spices are not overpowering. Her culinary skills are leaps and bounds ahead of mine!”

Chapter 526: I’ve waited for more than a year

“If it is that good, I want to have some too!” Ping Yang interrupted when she heard this.

“Haha… this is a gift to the Crown Prince from the Queen of the Southern Region.” Fang Zhengzhi shook his head when he saw the anticipation on Ping Yang’s face.

“Humph, don’t you think I know that? But the Queen of the Southern Region is definitely more generous than you.” Ping Yang pouted.

The aroma of the roasted lamb wafted through the air.

Fang Zhengzhi’s description was apt. Even though Shan Yu used many spices, they were not overpowering. In fact, each additional spice only served to make the meat even more tempting.

However, the Crown Prince’s expression was darkening by the second.

He didn’t believe that Shan Yu would have kept the spices she used over a year ago. However, this lamb smelled exactly the same as it was back then.

“Impossible! It must be a scam, it has to be!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong grit his teeth and looked at Shan Yu and Fang Zhengzhi.

Shan Yu had finished with the roasting.

The crowd swallowed the mouthfuls of saliva that had formed when they smelt that aroma. Some of them felt their stomachs rumbling.

The roasted meats of the Southern Region were a delicacy. Occasionally, there would be merchants from the Southern Region who would come and peddle the roasted meats.

However, none of their culinary skills even came close to Princess Shan Yu.

“I wish I could try a mouthful.”

“Yes, I can already tell that it’s going to be delicious just by looking at it.”

“What I would give just to have a taste of it…”

The crowd seemed to have forgotten about Fang Zhengzhi’s case. Everyone was focused on that delicious lamb in the middle.

The officials were confused when they saw this.

They didn’t know why the Queen of the Southern Region would roast a lamb right now, but they could tell that something was up from the Crown Prince’s expression.

“Could it be that this lamb holds the key?” The officials began to guess in their hearts. However, no one said anything out loud.

At that moment, Shan Yu sheathed her daggers. At the same time, a few Southern Region servants walked forward and placed the leather robe on Shan Yu’s shoulders.

“Your Highness, please!” Princess Shan Yu looked at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

“Thank you!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong nodded as he looked at the lamb. “It looks absolutely delicious! I must enjoy it in my own time! Men, pack this up and send it to my residence…”

“Your Highness, slow down!” Shan Yu interrupted the Crown Prince even before he could finish his orders.

The guards who were just about to step forward remained in their position.

“Haha, does the Queen of the Southern Region have other gifts for me?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong squinted but smiled.

“No, I just think that as the future leader of our great empire, you don’t seem to know much about good food.” Shan Yu said scornfully.

“What do you mean?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression changed. He looked at Emperor Lin Mubai. Seeing as he didn’t react, Lin Tianrong had no choice but to swallow his pride.

The other officials were slightly shocked to hear what she just said. Even though she was the Queen of the Southern Region, it was still a disrespectful thing to say.

However, it was not appropriate for them to say anything.

After all…

This was a conversation between a Crown Prince and the Queen of the Southern Region. They had no place in this conversation.

Shan Yu could see the expressions on the faces of Crown Prince Lin Tianrong and the other officials. However, she wasn’t going to back down.

Over the past year, Shan Yu had no idea if the poisoning was the Crown Prince’s idea or Shan Ling’s idea.

However, when she heard that the Crown Prince wants to bring the lamb back to his residence, she could already guess what happened a year ago.

The Crown Prince used Shan Ling to administer the poison.

Then, he killed Shan Ling and pinned the murder on Fang Zhengzhi.

After confirming this fact, Shan Yu was not going to back down now. As the Queen of the Southern Region, she would not be humiliated this way.

Shan Yu clenched her fists and a ball of fire burst out in her palms.

“I roasted the lamb in front of everyone. Even though it is a gift to you, you want to take it back to the East Palace. Don’t you know how to share?” Shan Yu’s voice was icy and her eyes began to glitter.

“You…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression darkened, the smile wiped off his face.

He knew exactly what Shan Yu was getting at.

He knew that he should share such a delicacy, but how could he possibly share this lamb with everyone present?

“Your Highness, did I say anything wrong? The food is right in front of them all, yet, you refuse to share it with them. I am disappointed by your selfishness!” Shan Yu pressed.

“How dare you?! Shan Yu, you may be the Queen of the Southern Region, but…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s gaze was icy.

At that moment, Emperor Lin Mubai moved in his seat. Then, he took a deep breath.

“Mm, that smells good!” Emperor Lin Mubai opened his eyes and looked at the freshly roasted lamb.

The officials fell to their knees.

“Long live the Emperor!”

“Mm, please rise.” Emperor Lin Mubai nodded and turned to look at Eunuch Wei, “Who made this?”

“Your Highness, the Queen of the Southern Region roasted this lamb for the Crown Prince.” Eunuch Wei reported when he heard the Emperor’s question.

“Oh? That’s nice of her. This is a truly special gift!” Emperor Lin Mubai nodded and turned to look at Shan Yu.

“However…” Eunuch Wei spoke up hesitantly.

“What’s the matter?” Emperor Lin Mubai asked.

“The Crown Prince wanted to bring this back to his residence. However, the Queen of the Southern Region wanted to share it with everyone else.” Eunuch Wei found a different way to express their opinions.

“Share it with the officials? Good, the Queen of the Southern Region is reasonable!” Emperor Lin Mubai spoke up and interrupted the Crown Prince. He looked at Lin Tianrong, “my son, you must be generous. Please remember what the Queen of the Southern Region said today!”

“… yes, father! I will!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong wanted to say something but decided against it.

“Okay then, since the Queen of the Southern Region is so willing to share, I will decide on behalf of the Crown Prince! Please give every official a slice!” Emperor Lin Mubai announced.

All of the officials were extremely excited to hear this.

It was almost noon and many of them were quite hungry. Furthermore, the golden lamb in front of them was much too tempting.

However…

Since this was a gift to the Crown Prince, they did not dare to ask for a slice. Furthermore, they had initially thought that something was amiss.

That being said, they let down their guard when they remembered that they were in the capital.

Shan Yu…

Shan Yu couldn’t possibly poison them at the gates of the palace!

At that moment, the officials fell to their knees and thanked the Emperor, the Crown Prince, and Shan Yu.

“Thank you, Your Highness!”

“Thank you, Your Highness!”

“Thank you, Your Highness!”

Then, the officials licked their lips and swallowed their saliva. They were excited to finally be able to try this lamb.

The newly appointed officials, who were the candidates in the court examinations the previous year, were the most excited.

“We finally get to try it!”

“I’ve been waiting for this day for more than a year!”

Those officials salivated as they eyed the lamb on the rack.

At that moment, a few servants in short skirts walked over and began to carve the lamb up.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong grit his teeth as he watched them carve up the lamb. His expression was dark and solemn.

“I want some too!” Ping Yang replied excitedly.

“To think that you are a Princess?! Can you let others go first? The Emperor already told you that you need to be generous and gracious!” Fang Zhengzhi replied in scorn.

“Humph, did father say that?” Ping Yang was visibly unhappy.

Eunuch Wei was about to take a plate from the servants and hand it to Emperor Lin Mubai when he heard this. He turned to look at Emperor Lin Mubai.

Emperor Lin Mubai nodded, then added, “Mm I did say that! We should let the officials enjoy it first!”

“Thank you, your highness!”

The officials fell to their knees and thanked the Emperor.

Then, the officials stepped forward and began getting their plates from the servants. They examined the slice of lamb on their plates.

“What great skills! She is a culinary genius!”

“Yes, this has all the marks of a great piece of meat. The skin is golden and crispy and the meat is juicy and tender. This is heaven on a plate!”

“Indeed, indeed!”

As officials of the Great Xia, they had the courtesy to resist the temptation for a few moments to praise the food presented to them.

Some of the officials decided to use this opportunity to show off their intellectual and artistic capabilities.

“I heard that Official Li is a renowned food critic. Why don’t you compose a poem for this delicacy?”

“Official Wang, you are too kind. But since you requested for one, I have to oblige!”

“We are excited to hear it!”

The officials were all holding the meat and praising it excitedly.

Once that was done, they began to carve up the meat with their small knives.

The moment they placed it in their mouths…

Their faces flushed.

“Awesome! Absolutely fantastic!”

“The first bite is heavenly!”

“This is a true delicacy! I have been a food critic for many years, but this is the best thing I’ve had in more than 50 years!”

“Thank you, Shan Yu!”

The officials began to sing praises of the meat. Many others began to thank Shan Yu for he generosity.

Even those officials who were a little more cautious began to let down their guard and eat the meat.

The meat melted in their mouths.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong paled when he saw this. He stared at all the officials.

Ping Yang pouted as she watched the officials enjoy themselves. She licked her lips, visibly tempted.

Yan Xiu was much calmer.

Yan Xiu enjoyed his food as well.

However…

He knew how to carry himself. He maintained an icy expression and red light flickered on his body.

Time passed quickly. More than half of the officials had finished the meat on their plate. The rest were still enjoying the delicacy in their hands.

The crowd licked their lips as they watched the officials enjoy this food. They could tell that it was delicious.

Wen Dabao was equally tempted…

Having starved for so long, he could only watch on as the officials enjoyed this delicacy. As for himself, he was still without food. He was extremely bitter.

However, this bitterness didn’t last long. He spotted his father in the crowd and realized that his father had yet to take a bite of the meat.

“Is he saving it for me?” Wen Dabao rubbed his hands together excitedly as he eyed the meat in Wen Chuan’s hands.

At that very moment…

A loud ‘dong’ jolted him. ‘

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Chapter 527: The Crown Prince administered the poison?

“What’s happening?” Wen Dabao instinctively turned to see the source of the noise. His eyes widened when he saw what happened.

Because…

That sound came from someone fainting.

Most importantly, the person who fainted was one of the six ministers, Minister Yue.

As one of the six ministers, Yue Hu was one of the first to receive the slice of meat. As such, he was also one of the first to finish devouring it.

However, he was now lying prone on the ground. His feet were spread out and the whites of his eyes were showing. There was a red mark on the side of his head.

He looked extremely forlorn.

“Official Yue has fainted!” One of the official’s voice echoed through the air.

“What happened to Official Yue? Is he suffering from heatstroke? But…” another official looked at the sun above them. He had never heard of anyone suffering from heatstroke in spring.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression changed when he saw Yue Hu faint. He began to shiver.

Just as he was about to speak, another sound pierced through the air.

“Dong!”

Yet another official crumpled to the ground, unconscious. No matter how hard he was shaken by the others, he did not show any signs of regaining consciousness.

“Official Li, Official Li, what happened to you?!” The officials were all stunned. This was also a rank two minister.

Two in a row…

Furthermore, these were both high ranking ministers! The officials started to panic.

However, it was far from over.

“Dong!”

“Official Wang! What happened to you? Official Wang fainted?”

“Dong!”

“Official Zhang… aish… I feel like my body has been drained of energy.”

“Dong!”

“…”

The expressions of the other officials changed drastically when they saw more and more officials fainting. One thought flashed through their minds.

“Could it be… that the meat was poisoned?!”

Just as they were thinking about it, more officials paled. Some officials even stuck their fingers down their throats in an attempt to make themselves vomit.

However, it was too late. The meat had been ingested.

“Dong, dong, dong…”

More and more officials began to faint and crumple to the ground. It was almost as if the breeze had toppled them all.

The officials who had eaten the meat all turned green when they saw the others fainting.

They never expected that…

Shan Yu would have poisoned the meat! Why would she do it on such an occasion? What was she planning?

Ping Yang was stunned as well.

She stared at all the officials who fainted, her mouth agape.

“Wow?! They’re all dead?!” Ping Yang exclaimed. Then, she added, “Oh, they’ve all fainted?!”

“Dead?” Fang Zhengzhi turned to look at Ping Yang. What’s wrong with this woman? What is she even thinking? How could she probably be a princess?

How could she be happy about these officials dying?

Yan Xiu was also slightly perturbed by this. However, he recovered quickly and an iciness filled his face once again.

Xing Yuanguo and Chi Hong didn’t eat the roasted meat. As the leaders of the 13 Constabularies, they had better discipline and awareness than the other officials.

The 13 Constabularies had helped to build this empire.

Even though the Emperor had asked the officials to enjoy the delicacy first, they wouldn’t actually try it before the Emperor.

When the two of them saw the officials crumple to the ground, they frowned and looked at Shan Yu.

The two of them clenched their fists and prepared to strike.

The crowd was stunned.

As citizens of the capital, they were used to seeing some scheming and plotting but this… this was on another level.

Poisoning hundreds of officials in broad daylight?!

“Poison?!”

“Shan Yu poisoned the meat?!”

“How is that possible?”

“That is impossible! She is the Queen of the Southern Region!”

Everyone refused to believe what they were saying. However, it was an irrefutable fact that the officials had fainted.

Bai Qi’s eyes widened. Poison? The Queen of the Southern Region poisoned the meat?

He was a seasoned veteran who had been through countless incidents. However, even he was taken aback by this. He never imagined that this was possible.

King Duan was equally shocked.

He too didn’t understand what Fang Zhengzhi meant when he said he was unable to kill. But now, King Duan was beginning to understand.

He instinctively turned to look at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong. He smirked when he saw the dark and solemn expression on the Crown Prince’s face.

At that moment…

A shocked voice pierced through the air.

“What’s happening? How did this happen?” Shan Yu was shocked by what she saw.

Panic and helplessness filled her eyes as her jaw dropped. She sounded like she was gasping for air.

Everyone could see how shocked and panicked Shan Yu was.

Fang Zhengzhi was initially shocked to see what happened. However, he quickly recovered and sighed to himself

“They are all great actors!”

Fang Zhengzhi thought that Shan Yu would have acted stunned.

But now…

It was obvious that she had chosen to take the panic route. If not for the fact that he knew this would happen, he would have been taken in as well.

It would seem…

Shan Yu had matured a lot over the past year. Her acting skills were significantly better now.

When everyone saw that Shan Yu was panicking…

Everyone began to doubt their initial hypothesis that Shan Yu was the one who had administered the poison.

“Could it be that she wasn’t the one who administered the poison?”

“But… she was the one who had roasted the lamb!”

“Even though she was the one who roasted the lamb, she may not be the one who poisoned the officials! Would she really poison half the court in front of the Emperor? You must be mad!”

“That’s true!”

The crowd began to guess and discuss amongst themselves.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong swallowed the words at the tip of his tongue. He began to grind his teeth as he glared at Shan Yu.

He knew exactly what Shan Yu was thinking…

He had already thought of a plan to turn things back into his favor.

However, he never got the chance to implement his plan. He didn’t manage to strike before the episode…

And whilst that was unfolding…

Shan Yu had taken the initiative and made her stand clear.

He couldn’t speak now!

“Why would this happen? Ah… who was the one who set me up?!” Shan Yu showed no signs of slowing down. “These are the exact ingredients I used last year! I’ve kept these by my side all this while! These couldn’t have been compromised!”

“What happened?!”

“How could this happen?”

Shan Yu kept screaming at the top of her lungs.

The officials who hadn’t eaten the meat were busy trying to wake the unconscious officials. They frowned when they heard what Shan Yu said.

They thought of a few possibilities.

For example…

The spices may have changed over the past year? Could someone have sabotaged or compromised the spices?

However, they rejected all these reasons almost instantly.

Ordinarily, spices could be stored for an extremely long time. Even half a decade was not a problem.

Furthermore, the aroma the meat gave off when it was roasted was testament to the freshness of the spices.

Secondly, it was unlikely that anyone would have sabotaged the spices. After all, no one could have predicted today’s events.

Most importantly, the officials who had lost consciousness were in stable condition. It was almost as though they were all drunk.

…

Wait a minute!

Drunk?!

When the officials thought about this, they felt a chill down their spine. They all felt extremely uncomfortable at that moment.

Then, a voice pierced through the air.

“Shan Yu, you’ve kept the spices in great condition!”

“Great condition?!” Shan Yu turned around and looked at a figure close by. “Fang Zhengzhi, what are you talking about?!”

“What I mean is, no one has compromised or changed the spices from a year ago.” Fang Zhengzhi added as he pointed to the leftover spices.

“No one sabotaged it?” The crowd looked at each other in shock and confusion.

If the spices hadn’t been sabotaged…

That would mean that… Shan Yu was responsible for the poison!

“You’re saying that I poisoned the spices myself?” Shan Yu’s eyes glittered icily.

“Of course not.” Fang Zhengzhi shook his head.

“Then what are you saying?” Shan Yu seemed slightly angered.

“Your Highness, there is no need to get angry. What I am saying is someone had already added the poison to the spices before the banquet a year ago!” Fang Zhengzhi chuckled and explained.

“The banquet a year ago? How do you know this?” Shan Yu’s gaze was icy and flames began dancing on her body.

Fang Zhengzhi had to admire this lady’s acting skills. She had matured greatly over the past year.

However…

He knew exactly where to go with this anger.

“Of course I know! I was the victim of this same poison!” Fang Zhengzhi nodded as he pointed at the Crown Prince. “He was the one who administered the poison!”

“The Crown Prince?!”

“He administered the poison?”

“What is happening?”

The other officials stared at Fang Zhengzhi in confusion when they heard this.

The crowd was in uproar when they heard this. Countless eyes stared at Crown Prince Lin Tianrong in disbelief.

“Rubbish! Fang Zhengzhi, how dare you slander me?! The person who administered the poison was…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong never expected Fang Zhengzhi to turn the case on him now.

Why would Fang Zhengzhi point the finger at him?

That was ridiculous.

He immediately hit back.

However, when he said the last few words, he felt a chill down his spine and shut his mouth.

It was so close…

If he was just a tad more enraged or impulsive, that sentence alone would have given Fang Zhengzhi the victory.

“Who was it?” Fang Zhengzhi asked.

“How would I know? I was wining and dining with the King of the Southern Region and never left the banquet. Everyone can testify! How would I know who administered the poison?” The Crown Prince replied calmly.

“Is that so?” Fang Zhengzhi’s mouth twitched.

He had wanted to bait the Crown Prince into revealing the truth. However, the Crown Prince had saved himself in time. It was a pity, but it was not a deal breaker.

“Fang Zhengzhi, do you know that it is a crime to slander the Crown Prince?” Lin Tianrong wiped the sweat off his forehead.

“I was merely guessing. Since you denied it, then there is only one person who could have administered the poison!” Fang Zhengzhi added, virtually ignoring the Crown Prince’s question.

“Who?!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s heart tightened. He had no idea where Fang Zhengzhi was going with this. He just wanted this nightmare to end.

Chapter 528: Most shameless act ever Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

“Su Qing!” Fang Zhengzhi asserted.

“No way! There is no way Su Qing could have administered the poison. He does not have the clearance to be able to even attempt it.” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression darkened. 　 He knew that Fang Zhengzhi knew the truth.

Fang Zhengzhi knew that Shan Ling was the one who administered the poison. The reason why Fang Zhengzhi would say that it was Su Qing… 　 He wanted to drive a wedge between the Crown Prince and Su Qing. 　 As such, he decided to recount the situation back then to prove that Su Qing could never have administered the poison.

“Who else could it be if it wasn’t Su Qing? He was the only one who wasn’t at the banquet. Your Highness, you can’t possibly think that Shan Ling was the one who added the poison, right?” Fang Zhengzhi smirked.

“Why not…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s eyes glittered icily. He knew that if he said that the poison was administered by Shan Ling…

Fang Zhengzhi would definitely ask for Shan Ling’s motivation.

Then…

Things would begin to unravel. 　　 Crown Prince Lin Tianrong could not let this happen! As such, he couldn’t say anything that would pin this on Shan Ling.

“Your Highness, is your silence reflective of your indecision?” Fang Zhengzhi chuckled.

“Fang Zhengzhi, I suggest that you refrain from guessing when you do not have evidence on hand. Else, you can be charged with slandering an official!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was not going to let Fang Zhengzhi continue with this line of questioning. 　 Things were already out of his control.

He did not have a good feeling about this. It felt like he had stepped right into Fang Zhengzhi’s trap.

This was a terrifying thought, one that sent shivers down his spine.

Most importantly, he had no way of denying that there was poison in the spices. The fainting of countless officials had already made that an irrefutable fact.

Any doctor worth their salt would be able to determine what poison it was. Then, the truth would come to light.

All he could do was try to calm himself down. 　 The officials who had not eaten the lamb all nodded when they heard what the Crown Prince said. They began to shed doubt on Fang Zhengzhi’s suspicions.

Fang Zhengzhi chuckled lightly. “Your Highness, are you really planning on pushing this to the late Shan Ling?”

“I do not know what happened then, so I will not comment! I will not accuse anyone until I have evidence!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong asserted.

“It is actually a very easy problem to solve. All we have to do is bring Su Qing in for questioning.” Fang Zhengzhi suggested.

“Hahaha… Fang Zhengzhi! You are quite naive! For starters, your accusations are baseless and unbelievable! Furthermore, Su Qing is watching over the Northern Five Constabularies! You are in no position to recommend that he be brought in for questioning!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled icily.

“What if I have evidence?”

“You have evidence?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was shocked.

He knew that he had not left any evidence behind.

He had already killed the eight mercenaries! Su Qing was also fiercely loyal to him! There was no way Fang Zhengzhi could have gotten hold of any evidence.

However, could he reveal these facts?

Of course not!

“Of course I have evidence! Your Highness, do you think that I would really accuse an official without any evidence?” Fang Zhengzhi replied calmly.

The eyes of the other officials were on the verge of popping out of their sockets.

“Su Qing administered the poison?”

“How is that possible?”

“How else would Fang Zhengzhi have evidence?”

The officials were all extremely confused. Things had changed much too quickly, so much so that even they couldn’t keep up.

The crowd was almost equally confused. They had thought that Fang Zhengzhi would try to run his mouth but no one expected that Fang Zhengzhi would actually have evidence. 　 Ping Yang stared at Fang Zhengzhi.

In fact, when she saw the officials crumple to the ground, she finally understood why Fang Zhengzhi would ask the officials to eat the meat before the royal family.

However…

Did this shameless fella really have evidence on hand?

Ping Yang refused to believe this but Fang Zhengzhi looked extremely calm. She had no other choice but to believe what he was saying.

Xing Yuanguo and Chi Hong both looked on doubtfully.

Evidence? How could Su Qing possibly be the one who administered the poison? They refused to believe that Fang Zhengzhi would have any evidence on hand.

“What evidence… could you possibly have?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong looked on in disbelief. 　 “Do you really want to hear it?” Fang Zhengzhi smiled.

“Of course!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong nodded.

The other officials perked up their ears and waited for Fang Zhengzhi to tell them the evidence he had on Su Qing.

“Okay then… but even though you want to hear it, I can’t say it.” Fang Zhengzhi shook his head in exasperation.

“F*ck!” 　 “Is he playing us?”

“How does someone like that even exist?”

The officials couldn’t resist the urge to swear when they heard this. All of them looked at Fang Zhengzhi with scorn.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression darkened.

He was the Crown Prince! How dare someone play him like this in front of so many people?! He was infuriated.

“Fang Zhengzhi! What do you mean?”

“Nothing… Your Highness, you should know that some evidence is easily destroyed. I can’t tell you the evidence just yet.” Fang Zhengzhi explained calmly.

“You say you have evidence, yet you refuse to tell us?” 　 “I do have evidence but I can’t reveal it right now. Is there a problem with that? Your Highness, why are you in a hurry to know?” Fang Zhengzhi asked. 　 “You…” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong clenched his fists and felt a wave of fury. He had no choice but to suppress it. “When do you plan to tell us?”

“When the trial starts!” Fang Zhengzhi replied calmly.

“The trial?!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned but recovered quickly. “This case is closed, why would we have a trial?”

“Your Highness, did you not see that countless officials had been poisoned?” Fang Zhengzhi pointed at the unconscious officials.

“So what?”

“I already said that I was poisoned in the same way over a year ago. I couldn’t have possibly killed Shan Ling.”

“Humph! Why should we believe you? How can you prove it?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong grit his teeth. 　 “You need me to prove this?” Fang Zhengzhi queried.

“Of course! Everyone knows that you’re prone to spouting nonsense! How can we believe you without proof?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong pressed.

This was honestly quite a ridiculous request. 　 Fang Zhengzhi had already proven that Princess Shan Yu’s spices had been tampered with and the officials were all poisoned.

This had already shown everyone that Fang Zhengzhi had been poisoned.

However…

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had to try this. 　 He needed to pray that Emperor Lin Mubai was still on his side.

He knew for a fact that Emperor Lin Mubai could never pin the murder of Shan Ling on him as long as he was still the Crown Prince.

Even if he had killed Shan Ling, he had done it to quell the rebellion and bring peace to the land. It was a good deed.

Emperor Lin Mubai needed a reason.

It didn’t matter even if the reason was a ridiculous one.

He instinctively looked at Emperor Lin Mubai. He could tell that the Emperor was thinking.

This had reaffirmed his belief.

As the Crown Prince, Fang Zhengzhi would never be able to get any charges to stick as long as he kept denying involvement.

“If that is the case, we will have to do an experiment to find out.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded accommodatingly.

“What kind of experiment?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s gaze was icy.

“If my guess is correct, the officials should have been drained on all energy. However, they are still conscious. That means that they can still hear us.” Fang Zhengzhi added.

“What can that prove?”

“I experienced the same thing a year back. If I am right, this will prove that I was poisoned by the same toxin a year ago.”

“Okay! We will have the Ministry of Law interview them when they wake up!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong hesitated but nodded.

This was one of the few experiments that he would agree to.

When it came to the officials, he was absolutely certain that they would take his side.

“No need for that. We can wake them up now.” Fang Zhengzhi shook his head. 　 “Now?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong squinted.

“Mm, after I was poisoned by this a year ago, I began to search for the name of it. I brought along some of the antidotes just in case. Your Highness, you seem rather anxious. Are you afraid?” Fang Zhengzhi explained.

“Afraid? What do I have to be afraid of?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong grit his teeth.

“I will be impartial. Do you have any objections if I administer the antidote to Yue Hu?” Fang Zhengzhi added.

“You’re choosing Yue Hu?!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned.

He had thought that Fang Zhengzhi would choose one of the neutral officials. To think that Fang Zhengzhi would choose Yue Hu…

How could he not be shocked by this choice?

He was not alone. Ping Yang, King Duan, Xing Yuanguo, Chi Hong, and Wen Dabao were all equally shocked.

Why would he choose Yue Hu for this experiment? 　　 Was he trying to court death?

“Your Highness, do you think that he is an inappropriate choice? I can always choose someone else.” Fang Zhengzhi added.

“No need for that. Yue Hu has served five years as a minister and is known to be impartial! I have no objections!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong had no idea why Fang Zhengzhi would choose Yue Hu.

However, he knew that Fang Zhengzhi had signed his own death warrant by choosing Yue Hu.

“He is? Oh wow, I guess I picked the right candidate.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and walked over to Yue Hu.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong chuckled icily to himself when he saw Fang Zhengzhi walk over.

He wanted to say one thing to Fang Zhengzhi.

Don’t you know that Yue Hu is in my camp?

Chi Hong stared at Fang Zhengzhi and shook his head. Fang Zhengzhi was just one step away from success. 　 But he made such a choice at the last moment.

His heart ached.

Yue Hu was the Minister of Finance and has spent decades in the court. He had been loyal to the Crown Prince even before he was the Minister of Finance.

How could Fang Zhengzhi succeed by choosing Yue Hu?

Emperor Lin Mubai watched as Fang Zhengzhi walked over and bent down to Yue Hu’s ear. The Emperor saw a glimmer of iciness flash through Fang Zhengzhi’s eyes and waved to Eunuch Wei.

Eunuch Wei saw that and brought over a cup of hot tea.

Emperor Lin Mubai lifted the lid and took a whiff. Then, he took a sip and thought about the flavors.

At that moment…

A resonating voice echoed through the air.

“Yue Hu, your concubine “Liu Lan” is currently having sex with your second son Yue Tianxiao in room two of the Qingtian Motel. Did you hear me?!”

“Sh*t!” Emperor Lin Mubai spat out the mouthful of tea immediately.

Chapter 529: Everything Is Messed-Up Translator: Sparrow Translations Editor: Sparrow Translations

As the leader of an Empire, Emperor Lin Mubai rarely lost his composure in such a manner. He had impeccable self-control, especially in front of the other officials.

But this time…

He spat out his tea.

When he heard this, he couldn’t believe his ears. The tea instantly stained his golden dragon robe.

“This fella is really…” Emperor Lin Mubai shook his head speechlessly as he looked at Minister of Finance Yue Hu.

He was not the only one who had been rendered speechless.

All of the other officials were equally speechless. They stood in their positions, stunned by what they just heard.

“Cheating?!”

“The concubine and his son?”

“Room two of the Qingtian Motel?”

The officials exclaimed to themselves when they heard Fang Zhengzhi say this.

“How could someone be this shameless?”

“How dare he accuse a rank two official’s concubine and son of having sexual relations in broad daylight?”

“Does he have any values? Does he even have any sense of shame?”

The officials were all rendered speechless. They never thought that it was possible for someone to be this shameless.

If they could…

They would have beaten Fang Zhengzhi to death where he stood.

They had to suppress the urge to give him the middle finger. He had just insulted one of their own.

However, they couldn’t because Fang Zhengzhi was in the middle of an experiment.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned.

He never expected Fang Zhengzhi to say something like that, much less in front of so many people.

These were unspeakable things!

Most importantly, how dare he make such groundless accusations? Did he have any respect for the courts?

Silence…

Everyone fell silent.

The crowd watched on by the side as they watched Minister of Finance Yue Hu. They were all rendered speechless.

Ping Yang’s mouth was agape and her crystal clear eyes were filled with shock. Then, she blushed and lowered her head, muttering ‘shameless’ as she did so.

“This fella…” Chi Hong shook his head and turned to look at Xing Yuanguo. Xing Yuanguo’s expression was equally strange.

If there was one man who could remain calm throughout all this.

It was Yan Xiu. Even though Yan Xiu blushed slightly, he did not lose his composure like those around him.

At that moment…

Minister of Finance Yue Hu regained consciousness.

After Fang Zhengzhi had said his piece, he had given Yue Hu a dose of the antidote. Yue Hu opened his eyes soon after.

He did not seem lost and did not try to look around to get a feel of where he was.

Minister of Finance Yue Hu’s face was completely flushed and his eyes were bloodshot. He looked slightly off balance.

“Fang Zhengzhi, I, I…” Minister of Finance Yue Hu clenched his fists and his knuckles whitened as he glared at Fang Zhengzhi. He wanted to shred Fang Zhengzhi where he stood.

“What’s wrong? Official Yue, are you feeling alright? Did you hear anything whilst you were unconscious?” Fang Zhengzhi didn’t seem shocked by Yue Hu’s expression.

“You… I didn’t hear anything!” Minister of Finance Yue Hu knew what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to do.

He was furious! He wanted to kill Fang Zhengzhi right now but he couldn’t. If he did so, the Crown Prince would be finished.

As for Fang Zhengzhi’s words…

He had heard them loud and clear, but he couldn’t possibly admit to that.

“Did you really hear nothing?” Fang Zhengzhi asked again.

“Of course!” Minister of Finance Yue Hu nodded solemnly. His only option was to suppress his anger. His face turned purple, then paled.

“Oh wow, you do have quite a high tolerance.” Fang Zhengzhi chuckled.

Everyone could tell what was happening. Yue Hu was trying to suppress his fury and embarrassment.

Anyone with some semblance of intellect and sight could see that Yue Hu was extremely uncomfortable. He had clearly heard what Fang Zhengzhi said.

However…

Yue Hu chose to deny it.

He grit his teeth and denied it.

Fang Zhengzhi couldn’t do anything about it. This experiment would have gone in the Crown Prince’s favor.

Shan Yu frowned. Even though she knew that Fang Zhengzhi was shameless, she never expected him to say this. His words would have been quite effective.

However, Fang Zhengzhi should never have chosen Minister of Finance Yue Hu. To be one of the six ministers, he had to have extraordinary tolerance.

If he chose to grit his teeth and deny it.

What could Fang Zhengzhi do?

Everyone felt equally doubtful.

“What are you talking about? I don’t understand!” Yue Hu was in pain, but he tried to keep a calm expression.

“You really don’t? How about I repeat it for you?” Fang Zhengzhi remarked.

“You…” Yue Hu wanted to add ‘wouldn’t dare’ behind that. However, he swallowed the words as he felt a chill down his back.

He had no idea why Fang Zhengzhi had chosen him.

If he had a say in this matter…

He would have never agreed to it.

However, he didn’t have the right to choose. Fang Zhengzhi had chosen him and the Crown Prince had given the go ahead. He had no choice but to swallow his pride.

“Official Yue, if you don’t object to it, I’ll repeat it one more time.” Fang Zhengzhi added.

“You… carry on!” Minister of Finance Yue Hu stammered.

“Actually, I have another question before I repeat myself.”

“What is it?!”

“Official Yue, do you want to know if what I said was true?” Fang Zhengzhi smirked as he looked at Yue Hu.

“Fang Zhengzhi!” Minister of Finance Yue Hu was stumped. He grit his teeth, “I don’t know what you’re talking about and I have nothing more to say to you!”

“Is that so?” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and turned to look at the crowd. “The Qingtian Motel is just 15 minutes away. Do you all want to take a look at the second room there?”

“Whoa!”

Everyone burst into chatter.

Commoners and officials alike looked at Fang Zhengzhi in disbelief. They had no idea what Fang Zhengzhi was trying to do.

Could it be…

Did he just speak the truth?!

Impossible!

Something like this would never happen! It was unfathomable!

But if it wasn’t true…

Why would Fang Zhengzhi know the name of Yue Hu’s concubine? Why would he accuse Yue Hu’s son so openly?

He even invited the crowd to go and watch them in action!

If this ended up being a farce, Fang Zhengzhi would definitely have to pay for it with his life!

Everyone turned to look at Minister of Finance Yue Hu. His expression was darkening with each passing second.

His concubine was cheating on him with his son?!

What was happening?

This was the capital! This was a society which emphasized loyalty and values. Such adulterous behavior…

Was unfathomable!

Yue Hu paled when he heard this. He didn’t want to believe what Fang Zhengzhi said. But what if it was true?

He was being put through an emotional roller coaster.

“Impossible! This is impossible! He is definitely lying to me. Liu Lan and Tianxiao would never do this to me. Tianxiao… no!” Minister of Finance Yue Hu tried to convince himself but his body continued to tremble.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s expression changed.

He could tell that Yue Hu was rather emotional right now. Anyone in his position would be too.

The fact that he could remain composed even up till now…

That was quite the extraordinary feat.

“You have to keep calm! He is just trying to agitate you! Official Yue, don’t fall for it!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong exclaimed in his heart.

He could not say this out loud.

Because…

Emperor Lin Mubai was staring at him.

He knew what that look meant. Right now, he had to pray that Yue Hu could stomach this.

At that moment, the crowd began to grow restless. They couldn’t suppress their curiosity any longer.

More and more people began streaming over to the motel.

Wen Dabao also began to move. He was not going to miss out on this!

Furthermore, he needed to satisfy his curiosity.

“Come on! I know exactly where this is! Come with me! Let’s catch this adulterous pair! Don’t let them escape!” Wen Dabao hollered.

The crowd was reinvigorated when they heard this.

The thought of catching the Minister of Finance’s concubine with his son set fire to their veins.

“Come…” Yue Hu wanted to shout at the crowd and gave them come back. However, he swallowed his words before he could say them.

He glared at the crowd rushing towards the motel. Right now, he had the urge to commit suicide.

If what Fang Zhengzhi said was true…

He would be embarrassed in front of such a huge crowd! How could he still face anyone ever again?

There was a light breeze.

It messed up Yue Hu’s hair and Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s confidence. It also ruffled the crowd outside the palace.

It was quite chaotic…

However, nothing could match the chaos…

In their hearts!

Time seemed to slow as all the officials waited anxiously for the results.

It was a strange feeling.

To be honest, they hoped that Fang Zhengzhi had made it all up, but they were still anxious to see the results.

It was inexplicable.

“Yan Xiu, do you think that the shameless fella was telling the truth?” Ping Yang raised her head and looked at Yan Xiu.

“Mm, it’s true.” Yan Xiu nodded.

“You trust him that much?” Ping Yang couldn’t understand it. The possibility of something like that happening was unbelievably low.

“Yes.” Yan Xiu nodded and didn’t give any further reasons.

This conversation was overheard by Lin Tianrong and Yue Hu. Both of them felt a shiver down their spines.

The Crown Prince looked at Yue Hu and saw nothing but pain in his eyes. Yue Hu was pleading…

He was begging the Crown Prince to think of a way to ameliorate the situation. If what Fang Zhengzhi said was true…

This involved his concubine and his son!

King Duan saw the interaction between Yue Hu and Lin Tianrong. Even though he didn’t believe Fang Zhengzhi…

He made his decision quickly.

He turned and shot a look at a figure nearby. That figure nodded and shot off into the distance.

Chi Hong seemed rather calm but he was looking at Fang Zhengzhi differently from before.

He thought of something else.

If…

If Fang Zhengzhi was right…

How did Fang Zhengzhi know about this? The fact that the concubine of the Minister of Finance was cheating on him was not something easy to find out.

Most importantly, he had to know this even before he had this confrontation with the Crown Prince!

This was getting more unbelievable by the second!

Chapter 530: 17th on the Holy Rankings

“How can he possibly know this?” Chi Hong squinted as he thought about what happened a few days ago.

Fang Zhengzhi had just entered the city.

That was the day…

That was the day Fang Zhengzhi confronted then Minister of Law Wan Chong and had him arrested for corruption.

If these events were not coincidences, this would mean that Fang Zhengzhi knew the unspeakable secrets of many in the city.

Chi Hou get a shiver down his spine. If this was true… the capital would be in for a ride.

Fang Zhengzhi never did things through the conventional routes. He was a maverick, someone who acted without considering the consequences.

Most importantly…

He was an independent with no known allegiances.

Just as he was thinking about this, he heard a loud sound in the distance. The crowd was streaming back to the palace.

Chi Hong’s eyes widened and his jaw dropped. Disbelief and shock filled his face almost instantly.

He was not alone.

The rest of the officials, the Royal Guard, and the crowd who stayed behind were in shock and disbelief as well.

They saw two figures dressed rather messily.

One man and one woman.

They were both in their twenties.

Furthermore, the two of them kept struggling and screaming bitterly. They looked as though they feared for their lives.

“It’s true?!”

“Fang Zhengzhi… wasn’t lying?!”

“How could this happen? How did he know that they would be at the Qingtian Motel? How is this possible?”

The officials couldn’t believe their eyes. They stared at the two figures being dragged over by the crowd.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned. He recognized the two figures instantly and was equally in disbelief.

He turned to look at Minister of Finance Yue Hu almost immediately.

“Not good!” When he saw Minister of Finance Yue Hu’s expression, the Crown Prince knew that things were about to take a turn for the worse.

Yue Hu was extremely pale. His body was trembling and the aura around his body was highly unstable.

“Sh*t!” He spat out a mouthful of blood.

Then, his face turned purple and green as the veins on his forehead throbbed. He looked like he was going to explode at any moment.

“No way! Xiaotian would never do this to me!”

“This is impossible…”

“Liu Lan! Liu Lan! I have treated you well! Why would you seduce my son?!”

“No… why?!”

Minister of Finance Yue Hu bellowed as his bones began to crack. His hair was extremely messy.

His white hair was dancing in the wind.

The officials knew that things were going to get messy. Yue Hu was quickly approaching his breaking point.

“Fang Zhengzhi, I will kill you!”

After he muttered to himself, Yue Hu’s expression darkened and he snarled ferociously. A green ray of light shot out from his body.

“No!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong wanted to stop it instinctively but it was too late. Yue Hu had attacked.

“Are you going to attack me just because I told you the truth?” Fang Zhengzhi knew how flustered Yue Hu was. After all, Yue Hu was the Minister of Finance.

However, Fang Zhengzhi didn’t move. He simply smiled as he watched the ray of green light shoot towards him.

At that moment…

A red light lit up behind Fang Zhengzhi. It looked like a red crystal screen that extended from the ground. It flew to the front.

Yan Xiu had struck.

Yan Xiu reacted the moment Yue Hu attacked.

“Boom!”

The green light crashed into the red screen in a flash of white. Then, a huge wave of power dissipated through the air.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned.

The officials, the Royal Guard, and the crowd was equally stunned.

Even the adulterous couple was stunned by what they saw.

They never expected that things would end up this way. The Minister of Finance had attacked Fang Zhengzhi in front of other officials and the Emperor.

This was…

Punishable by death!

Everyone watched the two days of light clash. They were shocked by the turn of events and shocked that Yan Xiu would try to block the attack.

“Yue Hu is in the nascent Rebirth State!”

“Yan Xiu… actually blocked it?”

“He blocked an attack from a raging Yue Hu? How did he do it?”

“Could it be… is Yan Xiu already…”

All of the officials were in disbelief. After all, Yan Xiu was only 18-years-old. If he could go up against a Rebirth State cultivator…

“No! He didn’t!” One of the officials exclaimed in shock as his eyes widened.

Everyone’s jaw dropped when they heard this. After the wave of power dissipated, they saw the green light pierce through the red screen.

However…

It had drifted slightly!

This ray of light was no longer trained on Fang Zhengzhi. It brushed past his neck and headed straight for the person behind him…

“No! Crown Prince, your highness, watch out!”

“Protect the Crown Prince!”

“Block it! Block it!”

All of the officials were panicking.

However, the ray of green light was traveling too quickly! It was in front of the Crown Prince within moments.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned.

He never expected this to happen. Why would Yue Hu attack him? He didn’t prepare for this.

In fact, even if he did, he would not have managed to block this attack.

Even though he was powerful as the Crown Prince, his cultivation state was mediocre. He was only in the Supernatural State. He would not be able to block this attack.

Terror and shock.

He didn’t want to die but the ray of light was traveling too quickly.

“Save me!” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong screamed in desperation.

At that moment, a ray of light shot out from the palace walls. This was a figure encased in gold light.

It was fast.

It was extremely fast.

It was so fast that it left a black crack behind her. She had ripped through the very fabric of reality.

There was a similar crack left behind when Fang Zhengzhi used the Sun Shooting Bow to fire the Million Sword Illustration.

She was as quick as an arrow!

The world fell silent.

All that was left was the green light and the golden figure.

It was extremely quick!

Everyone held their breath and stared.

Finally.

The figure arrived next to the Crown Prince when the green light reached the Crown Prince’s throat. However, it was still too late.

“Oh no!”

That same thought flashed through everyone’s mind.

Then, the strangest thing happened. The golden figure rose and fired off a punch.

This was a fist encased by golden armor. However, it was not a callous or large fist. On the contrary, it looked rather refined.

However, when she threw the punch, it felt as though the entire area had been shook by a wave of force.

“Boom!” A loud crash echoed out.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s body flew into the air before crashing back into the ground.

“Boom!” A dull thud echoed out and the ground cracked.

Everyone was silent.

Everyone looked at the Crown Prince anxiously.

“Sh*t!” At that moment, the Crown Prince shuddered and spat out a mouthful of blood.

“Your Highness!”

“Your Highness!”

“…”

All of the officials rushed forward.

A long figure walked out of the golden light. This was a lady in golden armor.

Her figure was accentuated by the armor and accessories.

She had tied up her hair and had exquisite features. Her skin was snow white and it glimmered under the sun.

She was the Commander of the Royal Guard.

Ranked 17th on the Holy Rankings.

The Hidden Dragon Roll were for people under 18. The Rising Dragon Roll were for talents under 28. There was one more roll, the Holy Rankings!

That was the all encompassing ranking system! There was no age limit here!

Of course…

There was a reason why it was named the Holy Rankings!

The Sages were a part of these rankings!

The fact that this lady ranked 17th was a testament to her abilities. She was the 17th most powerful person in the empire.

Her name was Chen Feihua.

She had another identity that made everyone respect her even more. Even the Princes and Princesses knelt when they saw her.

Consort Fei!

Once upon a time, Chen Feihua’s name was on everyone’s tongue.

Before Chi Guyan had come along and shocked the world, everyone thought that Chen Feihua was the most talented lady.

The pride of the 13 Constabularies…

It was only a matter of time before Chen Feihua entered the courts.

In all honesty, there was no other choice for her. Before she entered the courts, Emperor Lin Mubai almost never attended court sessions.

It was a difficult time for the empire.

The barbarians in the North tried to invade, the demons were trying to test their luck, and the Divine Constabulary and Stabilization Constabulary were out to quell the unrest. It was chaos.

At that moment, Chen Feihua entered the palace covered in blood from head to toe. Her armor had been shredded and her sword was broken but she hugged a three month old baby in her arms.

When Emperor Lin Mubai rushed out from the palace, Chen Feihua fell to her knees and said only one thing.

“Your Highness, I brought her back!”

That was the day Chen Feihua became consort Fei.

That was also the day Emperor Lin Mubai returned to the courts and gave his orders. He was carrying that baby.

That was also the day the city learned to fear this name.

That name…

Ping Yang!

Ping Yang’s name represented peace as well as the light at the end of the tunnel!

Three months later, Chen Feihua became the commander of the Royal Guards.

The officials were initially confused by the appointment. However, they eventually understood it. Even though Chen Feiyu was the number one consort, she never bothered with the affairs of the other consorts.

Even though there was no queen, she didn’t try to take that position.

“Auntie Hua!” A crisp voice rang out and Ping Yang, dressed in her golden red dress, hugged Chen Feiyu.

Chen Feiyu didn’t stop her. She smiled when she saw this. Her smile was radiant and her snow white hands ruffled Ping Yang’s hair. It was almost as if Ping Yang was her own daughter.

All the officials shook their head in exasperation.

Ping Yang.

The biggest bully in the capital! She could frustrate and annoy everyone. She was not only the Emperor’s favorite princess.

She was also Consort Fei’s favorite princess.

She had the Emperor and the commander of the 50,000 strong Royal Guards backing her! Who would dare to antagonize her?

“Consort Fei!” The officials greeted.

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong also fell to one knee. He was pale and there was blood trickling down the edge of his mouth.

Even so, he still bowed to Chen Feiyu.

“Consort Fei, thank you for saving my life!”

“Your Highness, you need not thank me.” Chen Feiyu helped the Crown Prince up even as a golden light flickered in her palm.

Then, she turned around and bowed to Emperor Lin Mubai. After which, she turned to look at all the officials.

She scanned over the officials quickly before finally resting her eyes on Yan Xiu and Fang Zhengzhi.

She frowned…

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Chapter 531: Your Majesty, I Was Wronged…

“Ah, the Imperial Concubine Hua Fei of today, ranked 17th in the Imperial Roll, commander of the Imperial Army, Chen Fei Yu’s elder sister, Chen Feihua!” Fang Zhengzhi thought to himself.

If this were a year ago…

He would have been shocked upon that sight. Well, it was an appalling scene indeed.

And he would never have expected that the commander of the Imperial Army would be Hua Fei.

Not to mention the thought that Hua Fei would even be ranked in the Imperial Roll.

Chen Feihua’s gaze laid on Fang Zhengzhi momentarily, then slowly shifted towards the Ministry of Finance official Yue Hu.

“I deserve to die, I deserve to die…” A shivering Yue Hu dropped to a kneel. He was absolutely petrified.

“Yue Hu, do you know your mistake?” Chen Fei Hua asked with a nod, her tone bland and emotionless.

But virtually all the officials present shuddered. Chen Feihua had never once questioned the Imperial Government. Besides her duty of defending the palace, she had never said something like this to an imperial official.

But now…

She had said it.

And this meant the Ministry of Finance official Yue Hu could never stand to free himself of this shame.

He lowered himself, with his head on the ground and his body trembling. He did not fear death because death, to him, was ultimately a relief. It would set him free.

But he was spiteful.

He yearned to kill Fang Zhengzhi with his own hands.

While everyone believed Yue Hu acted in a fit of rage, nobody knew that his mind had remained been calm and composed.

Having served in the Imperial Government for decades, he had a wealth of experience under his belt.

He had truly mastered the control of his emotions. Even when his second son had an affair with a servant, he never allowed his reason and rational thought to be engulfed by rage.

Hate.

Of course, he hated.

Yet, what he did was not totally due to his hate; he knew that, at this juncture, if Fang Zhengzhi lived, Crown Prince Lin Tianrong would be in imminent danger.

For this, he was furious.

Yue Hu acted in full control of his emotions.

However, he did not expect Yan Xiu to block his enraged blow, and never did it cross his mind that he would accidentally hit Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

Of course, there was only one thing he knew…

That he was now as good as dead.

“I know my mistake!” Yue Hu did not raise his head. He clenched his fist. There was only one chance, and missing it meant death.

If he could kill Fang Zhengzhi in a blow, maybe in a few years when Lin Tianrong ascended the throne, he could still have a glimmer of hope for survival.

But now, all had come to naught.

“Bai Qi.” Chen Feihua turned towards an Imperial Soldier standing still a stone’s throw away.

“Present!”

“Lock up official Yue.”

“Right away!” The Imperial Army’s second-in-charge Bai Qi promptly nodded. Without hesitation, he walked toward Yue Hu.

Yue Hu slowly stood up and looked at the couple rooted in their positions.

He did not say a single word.

But it was apparent to all that this Rank Two official’s strength had completely left his body. He summoned every ounce of energy. Every step was excruciating.

And this was how Yue Hu was brought away.

The man and woman were brought away too. Yue Hu’s crime was so serious that they were unfortunately implicated.

Harming the Crown Prince in public.

This was not a crime that could be forgiven in light of the contributions of a Rank Two official.

As a matter of fact, the moment Chen Feihua intervened in that total chaos, no one dared to move a muscle.

Even Wen Dabao, who wanted very much to scream aloud, stayed silent.

Every single person turned their attention to Chen Feihua, waiting for the most prized Imperial Concubine to calm the situation and protect the Crown Prince.

Yet, Chen Feihua did not do that.

She did not check Crown Prince Lin Tianrong’s wounds, but gave a quick salute towards Emperor Lin Mubai, who was on the throne, and then walked through the Palace entrance.

Very quickly…

Chen Feihua once again vanished into the Palace.

All of this happened in the very same place. But without that scene a few moments ago, no one would have realized Chen Feihua had been present.

A cough broke the uncanny, deafening silence.

Everyone turned towards this abrupt noise, where an imperial official stood awkwardly, his face red in embarrassment.

H was innocent in every meaning of the word.

The official was slightly ill and could not contain his cough. Never did he expect this tiny disturbance turned all eyes on him.

He quivered.

“I am guilty, I am guilty…” The imperial official hastily knelt, frantically kowtowing in a plead for forgiveness, his skull knocking audibly on the ground.

Upon witnessing this sight, the other officials could not help but smile wryly.

Actually, Chen Feihua only did so in her duty as the commander of the Imperial Army and saved the Crown Prince.

Yet, it is this act of professionalism…

That utterly astounded the imperial officials, the surrounding commoners, and even transformed the atmosphere around the Palace entrance.

Was this the power of her rank of 17th in the Imperial Roll?

Or her influential impact as the current top imperial concubine!

That imperial official continued to pound his head on the ground, but everyone’s attention had shifted towards another man. A man dressed in a blue robe.

In any case, what happened moments ago was too unsettling.

The Ministry of Finance official Yue Hu did, in fact, initiate the attack, but as everyone knew, he would never in his wildest dreams think of hurting the Crown Prince Lin Tianrong.

Yet, it was an undeniable fact that he did so.

Was it an accident, or a deliberate attack?

If it was an accident, it seemed too coincidental. Yet, if it was the latter, who would do such a thing intentionally?

Each imperial official at present had only questions upon the confusion, and it happened so quickly no one had observed clearly.

“It’s getting late, let us start the feast!” Emperor Lin Mubai’s voice rang, rousing the imperial officials who were still processing what they had just witnessed earlier.

Eunuch Wei stood up.

“It’s time for the feast!”

“Feast! Feast!” echoed in the Palace.

With that, a chatter resumed in the Palace. The same ordinary sounds that came through from there not long ago.

The initially tense atmosphere loosened up. The officials seemed to have reached some conclusions, put their thoughts aside, conjured courteous smiles as they tidied their clothes as they prepared to enter the Palace.

But at this moment…

A figure walked towards Lin Mubai, his robe swaying lightly in the breeze. Behind him followed Yan Xiu.

“Your Majesty, I have a grievance to raise!” Fang Zhengzhi bowed lightly, but he did not pay heed to hierarchical rules of speaking to the Emperor, using the word “I” informally to represent his identity.

The officials halted in their tracks. Their smiles froze on their faces, their eyes fixed on Fang Zhengzhi.

Of course, they knew what Fang Zhengzhi was up to.

But…

How dared he intervene as the Emperor’s order was carried out?

The surrounding commoners stared at Fang Zhengzhi, stunned. At this very moment, they seem to know what Emperor Lin Mubai was thinking.

Fang Zhengzhi had already revealed the truth to all, and the Ministry of Finance official could hear their conversation. Fang Zhengzhi was under the effect of this same poison a year ago.

Yet, Emperor Lin Mubai could still initiate the feast.

His attitude was obvious.

“What is he trying to do?”

“Is he really trying to overturn the case?”

“Would the Emperor let him have his way?”

Questions arose among the commoners.

Emperor Lin Mubai’s gaze turned towards Fang Zhengzhi as he stood from his throne.

“Minister of Rites, must you voice this grievance now?” Emperor Lin Mubai’s was tone showed nothing besides tranquillity.

But all the imperial officials and commoners instantly felt a wave of peculiarity.

Because Emperor Lin Mubai called Fang Zhengzhi…

The Minister of Rites!

Everyone was clear that a year ago when the war with the Southern Region ended, the Emperor had promoted Fang Zhengzhi from a Rank Four Sword Envoy to the Minister of Rites.

However, Fang Zhengzhi did not return to the Ministry of Rites, nor did he take over the Ministry of Rites Seal.

This was because Fang Zhengzhi killed a Southern Region Noblelite and injured the Crown Price.

But now, Emperor Lin Mubai addressed Fang Zhengzhi as the Minister of Rites, wasn’t this an unbelievable sight?

Crown Prince Lin Tianrong was stunned.

His fiery eyes glared at Fang Zhengzhi and Emperor Lin Mubai as blood leaked from the corner of his mouth.

Rage and indignation filled every vessel in his heart.

Yet he understood that when Emperor Lin Mubai addressed him this way, it meant Fang Zhengzhi was cleared of the grievances from what happened in the Southern Region.

Chi Hou also froze.

Today, when Fang Zhengzhi emerged from the crowds and blocked Southern Region Prince Shan Yu, he never thought that Fang Zhengzhi would succeed.

At that moment, he only wished to save Fang Zhengzhi.

But now…

Fang Zhengzhi had indeed succeeded.

Even if did not attempt to overturn the case, he had already succeeded. Succeeded in clearing the grievances from the Southern Region, which was hitherto unfathomable.

Not only did Emperor Lin Mubai not pursue Fang Zhengzhi’s fault, but recognized Fang Zhengzhi in another light and restored his position as an imperial official.

This meant a silent acknowledgment of sorts.

The Southern Region case would see tremendous progress in time to come.

“Was Your Majesty talking to me?” Fang Zhengzhi’s voice lit up again.

“Do you think there would be a second Minister of Rites here, alive?” Emperor Lin Mubai then glanced at the official on the floor.

“Your Majesty was speaking to me indeed, but did Your Majesty address me incorrectly?” Fang Zhengzhi replied.

“Incorrectly?!”

“He actually said the Emperor addressed him incorrectly?”

The officials could not believe the conversation.

“Fang Zhengzhi, don’t spout nonsense! How would Your Majesty address you incorrectly? Stop your behavior!” Chi Hou felt things would not end up well for Fang Zhengzhi.

Certainly, he knew what Fang Zhengzhi was thinking.

But it was also important to weigh the urgency and importance of matters and the setting in which they were raised.

In this day, the Southern Region King, Southern Region soldiers, countless commoners and personnel of the Imperial Army had gathered in the Palace.

In this situation…

How would Emperor Lin Mubai make an immediate decision?

Hanging the proverbial dirty laundry, especially with the reputation of the Crown Prince at stake, did not seem like a good idea.

Now that Emperor Lin Mubai had publicly acknowledged Fang Zhengzhi’s identity, overturning the Southern Region case would only be a matter of time.

Chi Hou was clear on this point, hence he could not help but worry for Fang Zhengzhi.

“Official Fang, the feast is about to begin and could not be delayed. If you have any important matters, you should address them later.” Eunuch Wei said sharply while displaying an exaggerated respectfulness.

With that, Emperor Lin Mubai did not comment further.

Slowly, he walked down from his throne, briefly looked at the Palace door and strode towards it.

“Official Fang, the feast has begun, and a place has been reserved for you.” Eunuch Wei bowed at Fang Zhengzhi and promptly followed behind Emperor Lin Mubai.

Among the crowd, Wen Dabao watched in envy.

“Bravo! Just like that, he has become the Minister of Rites? Indeed, I have not followed the wrong person!” Wen Dabao lit up in joy as though he had become a Minister himself.

And at this moment, Fang Zhengzhi took a step forward.

“Your Majesty, last year at the Southern Region celebratory dinner, I was plotted against and poisoned. In my delirium, I was brought into Southern Region King’s room. While unconscious, I was accused of killing the Southern Region Noblelite. But I was so weak, and I had no grudges with these people, how would I kill the Noblelite? I plead for Your Majesty to address this injustice of mine!”