"Wait, wait," Yao Wenying called out to Hua Liuli, her teeth trembling with fear.
Private possession of the dragon robe was something that had happened in the previous dynasty as well. The crown prince of that time was involved in the matter and was ultimately deposed and imprisoned for the rest of his life.
"We can't go to the Crown Prince," Yao Wenying took a deep breath, "This situation, we can't burden the Crown Prince."
"Why?" Yao Jiamin couldn't understand, "The Emperor dotes on the Crown Prince the most. In times like these, it's more effective for the Crown Prince to intercede than anyone else."
"But privately keeping the dragon robe is a grave crime. Do you all remember the deposed crown prince from the previous dynasty, who was imprisoned for life?" Yao Wenying exclaimed urgently, "The Crown Prince is Fushou Junzhu's betrothed. This matter coming to light would be most detrimental to the Crown Prince."
Yao Jiamin froze, then she turned to look at Hua Liuli with concern, "What should we do now? What's the matter with that private estate?"
"The private estate was bestowed upon me by the Emperor when I was conferred the title of Fushou Junzhu. The servants inside were assigned by the Imperial Household Department. Most of these servants were punished for major crimes in their families and were reduced to slavery," Hua Liuli explained.
Apart from occasionally visiting her private estate, she hadn't meticulously managed the property there. Now that a dragon robe suddenly appeared in her private estate, she needed to carefully recall how many rooms there were in the estate.
The servants who had passed through the Imperial Household Department should not have any major issues unless someone had already tampered with them before they were assigned to the private estate.
"What should we do now?" Yao Jiamin stomped her feet in frustration, "Hua Liuli, don't panic. I will go back and ask my mother to inquire if there's anyone who can help intercede."
After saying that, she didn't even bother to take the carriage and ran down the stairs to snatch a guard's horse. She mounted the horse and prepared to ride back to her residence.
"Wait," Hua Liuli pulled the reins, and the horse neighed, coming to a stop.
"What are you doing?" Yao Jiamin was startled, "Are your hands okay?"
"I'm fine," Hua Liuli patted the horse and advised Yao Jiamin, "We can't gallop through the busy streets. You're in such a rush, but what if you accidentally hurt someone?"
"You are already in this kind of situation, yet you still remember this," Yao Jiamin sighed helplessly, "So what should we do now?"
"What else can we do?" Hua Liuli pursed her lips, "Since it's a problem with my private estate, I will go and explain to the Emperor myself."
Hua Liuli boarded the carriage and said to the coachman, "Go, to the palace."
Watching the carriage of the Hua family leave at a steady pace, Yao Jiamin kicked the wheel of her carriage in anger, "Resorting to such cunning methods. What kind of hearts do these people have?"
The Hua family had sacrificed a lot to guard the borders, and now that there was finally peace in the world, the Hua family is now being accused of privately keeping the dragon robe. It was too much of an insult to them.
Thinking of General Wei, whom she admired the most, enduring so much injustice, Yao Jiamin's eyes turned red. She quickly turned around to head towards the carriage.
"Jiamin, where are you going?" Yao Wenyin called out to Yao Jiamin.
"I'm going to seek help from my mother," Yao Jiamin gritted her teeth, "I don't believe the Hua family would privately keep the dragon robe!"
Yao Wenyin nodded firmly, "Then I will go seek help from my grandfather."
Tian Shan glanced at the two sisters and said in a low voice, "Then I'll go to the palace and plead with my aunt."
Tian Shan didn't have much confidence in saying these words. Her aunt, Consort Xian, had never been fond of the Crown Prince, and more importantly, if the Crown Prince were to be implicated in this matter, her cousin, Ying Wang, would benefit the most. Her aunt might not be willing to help.
However, even if there was no hope, they had to try.
None of the young ladies believed that the Hua family would do such a thing.
As Hua Liuli's carriage arrived at the palace gate, another carriage happened to be coming out from inside.
The carriage slowed down and the person inside lifted the curtain. Hua Liuli recognized her, "Second Princess."
"Fushou Junzhu," the Second Princess seemed to already know about the private possession of the dragon robe. After a moment of hesitation, she spoke, "Junzhu, there are several important officials in Father Emperor's study right now. If you go at this time, please be extra careful."
"Thank you for the information, Second Princess," Hua Liuli smiled, "I have a clear conscience as I haven't done anything wrong."
"The two generals are loyal and devoted; they would never do this thing," the Second Princess said with a gentle smile, "But Father Emperor is still angry at the moment. If anything happens, Junzhu, please don't worry. The Crown Prince sincerely cares for you, and he will definitely come to your rescue."
Hua Liuli glanced at the Second Princess and slightly curved her lips, "Indeed."
After giving a slight nod to Hua Liuli, the Second Princess put down the curtain.
After the Second Princess's carriage left, Hua Liuli's carriage continued on its way.
No one hindered them along the road, and even the palace maids and eunuchs gave her respectful salutations, although their gazes held a hint of strangeness.
Hua Liuli strode to the gate of the Chengyang Palace, where Zhao Sancai, who was guarding it, saw her and approached with a gentle smile, "Junzhu, you've come?"
"Head Eunuch Zhao, I have urgent matters to discuss with His Majesty. Please inform him on my behalf."
"His Majesty has already told this old servant that if the Junzhu comes, she can go in directly without prior notice."
"Thank you," Hua Liuli thanked him and walked through the gate.
While Hua Liuli's little sisters believed in the Hua family, it didn't mean that everyone else did.
"Your Majesty, private possession of the dragon robe is a grave crime associated with rebellion. Before it is determined whether Fushou Junzhu is innocent, this subject believes that Hua Yingting should not continue to hold the position of the Commander of the Imperial Guards," Wang Daren said.
"Wang Daren's words are truly amusing. If there hasn't been a conviction yet, why should General Hua be removed from his post?" Zhang Shuo, the Minister of Justice, retorted, "If we follow your logic, I can suspect you of embezzlement and bribery. Shouldn't your entire family be suspended from duty until the matter is clarified?"
"You!" Wang Daren fumed, "Zhang Daren, don't use sophistry with me."
"I'm speaking logically, not using sophistry," Zhang Shuo said, "Investigating the case is the responsibility of the Prefect of Jingzhou and the Ministry of Justice. If we can determine the verdict with just your words, then the Prefect of Jingzhou and the Ministry of Justice can all take a break."
"Zhang Daren, are you colluding with the Hua family to protect them?" Wang Daren challenged.
"Wang Daren, your statement doesn't make sense. I am currently speaking with you, does that mean I am colluding with you?" Zhang Shuo no longer paid attention to Wang Daren and turned to Emperor Changlong, bowing respectfully, "Your Majesty, this matter is extraordinary and even goes against reason. This subject believes it is necessary to quickly investigate the truth and clear the name of Fushou Junzhu."
Emperor Changlong looked at the two officials, who had been debating since they entered, and slowly sipped his tea, "Have the two esteemed ministers reached a conclusion?"
Only then did Zhang Shuo and Wang Daren realize that His Majesty hadn't expressed his opinion on the matter since they entered. Upon this realization, they felt somewhat embarrassed.
"Fushou Junzhu's private estate was originally an imperial estate, which Zhen bestowed upon Fushou Junzhu not long ago. Even the servants in the estate were assigned by Zhen," Emperor Changlong looked at the exquisitely embroidered dragon robe on the imperial desk, "Fushou Junzhu, personally chosen by Zhen as the future Crown Princess, would she be foolish enough to secretly hide a dragon robe in the imperial estate bestowed upon her?"
"Your Majesty, there is a saying that the most dangerous place is the safest," Wang Daren continued, "If it hadn't been for a thief being discovered in the estate, who would have known that Fushou Junzhu had hidden a dragon robe in her private estate?"
"Fushou Junzhu is a young lady, so this dragon robe is obviously not prepared for herself," Wang Daren's gaze swept over the dragon robe, "Perhaps it was prepared for someone she cares about."
Who are the men that Fushou Junzhu cares about?
It's none other than Hua Yingting, her three older brothers, and... the Crown Prince.
"This subject understands that Your Majesty doesn't want to suspect the Hua family, but this matter concerns the stability of the country. Please consider it carefully," Wang Daren didn't dare to mention the Crown Prince and directed suspicion toward the Hua family.
In fact, he had long suspected the Hua family. They not only controlled hundreds of thousands of troops guarding the borders but also held significant power in the Imperial Guards. If they had any rebellious intentions, the capital city would be in danger.
"Your Majesty, this humble subject seeks an audience," Hua Liuli stood respectfully outside the curtain.
Both Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo turned their heads in surprise, looking at Hua Liuli standing outside. How could she dare to enter the palace at a time like this?
If any other younger generation were in trouble, they would surely stay at home and let the elders of the family handle it. Unexpectedly, Fushou Junzhu had come alone. Wasn't she afraid that His Majesty would imprison her right away?
"Come in," Emperor Changlong's expression softened slightly. When he saw Hua Liuli enter, though her face appeared pale, there was no sign of guilt or remorse. He then said, "Zhao Sancai, bring a stool for Fushou Junzhu."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Hua Liuli lightly coughed, covering her mouth with her hand.
"Your health is not good. Don't rush into the palace for such minor matters," Emperor Changlong waited for Hua Liuli to sit down before continuing, "Does the Crown Prince know that you've come to the palace?"
Hua Liuli shook her head and honestly replied, "His Royal Highness is not yet aware."
Emperor Changlong's heart instantly tensed up. If the Crown Prince caused a scene later, accusing him of mistreating his future bride, wouldn't it strain their father-son relationship?
Wang Daren, seeing that His Majesty didn't rebuke Fushou Junzhu and even let her a take seat, couldn't help but say, "Your Majesty, since Fushou Junzhu is already here, she should explain the situation."
"Wang Daren," Emperor Changlong said, "Fushou Junzhu is in poor health and still young. Take your time to speak. Don't rush. Don't frighten her. If she is truly innocent, Zhen will ensure she receives justice."
Wang Daren: "..."
Your Majesty, we are discussing the matter of private possession of the dragon robe. You are the Emperor. Someone is encroaching upon your position, shouldn't you show a sense of urgency?
Wang Daren turned his head and looked at Fushou Junzhu. He saw the petite and lovely Junzhu, who had a smile on her face — a smile that was both timid and shy. As he gazed at her fair and tender face, Wang Daren, who was over fifty years old, couldn't help but think of his granddaughter at home.
"Fu-Fushou Junzhu, do you have anything to explain regarding the dragon robe in your private estate?" Wang Daren's voice involuntarily softened, "Take your time. If you are truly innocent, His Majesty will definitely ensure justice for you."
"Thank you, Daren," Hua Liuli smiled gratefully at him. With her naturally good looks, her smile made the old man even more fond of her.
Seeing this smile, Wang Daren felt a bit guilty. Perhaps he genuinely wished well for Fushou Junzhu. This adorable and timid young girl didn't seem like someone with the courage to privately hide the dragon robe.
Could it have been the Crown Prince?
Under the guise of his betrothed, the Crown Prince, did he hide the dragon robe in Fushou Junzhu's private estate? If it had been discovered, the blame would have fallen on Fushou Junzhu...
Wang Daren secretly glanced at Emperor Changlong. The more he thought about it, the more he felt that the Crown Prince, with his arrogant temperament, was capable of doing this kind of thing. A pity though, Fushou Junzhu is now implicated in the conspiracy without knowing why.
"Your Majesty..."
Before Hua Liuli could speak, Zhao Sancai's voice rang out, "Your Majesty, Royal Princess Shunan seeks an audience."
Emperor Changlong was somewhat surprised, "What is she here for?"
Taking a glance at his well-behaved future daughter-in-law, Emperor Changlong said, "Let her come in."
"Imperial Brother!" As soon as Royal Princess Shunan entered the hall, she urgently exclaimed, "This must be a deliberate plot against the Hua family and the Crown Prince."
Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo exchanged glances. Didn't Royal Princess Shunan dislike the Crown Prince the most? At a time like this, instead of seizing the opportunity to criticize the Crown Prince, she was actually pleading for the future Crown Princess?
The emotions of the imperial family were truly more complex than a spider's web.
In a hurry, Royal Princess Shunan respectfully greeted Emperor Changlong and then turned to see Hua Liuli. She quickly walked over to her and said directly, "Liuli is weak and timid. How could she dare to do such a thing?"
"That private estate is an imperial estate, and the servants inside are assigned by the Imperial Household Department," Royal Princess Shunan said, "I believe these servants must be involved. Why don't we capture them all and interrogate them one by one to ensure justice for Fushou Junzhu?"
"You're right. These servants should be interrogated," Emperor Changlong said to Hua Liuli, "Originally, Zhen planned to provide you with some capable servants, but Zhen never expected these servants to be so incompetent and cause you so much trouble. After this incident, you can rearrange the servants to take care of the private estate and not burden yourself."
Hua Liuli looked at Emperor Changlong in confusion. Did His Majesty not suspect her at all?
"Yes," Royal Princess Shunan sighed with relief when she saw that Emperor Changlong didn't suspect Hua Liuli, "If Junzhu doesn't understand, I can send some of my estate's servants to you."
Zhang Shuo: "..."
This seems like a perfect opportunity to plant spies in Fushou Junzhu's private estate!
"Why trouble yourself, Your Highness?"
"It's not a trouble. I have too many servants in my estate, and I've been worried about the cost of maintaining them," Royal Princess Shunan smiled, "You're actually helping me by sharing the burden."
"Thank you, Your Highness."
Zhang Shuo: "..."
Well, he's a fool.
Consort Xian, accompanied by Tian Shan, arrived at the entrance of the main hall in Chenyang Palace. She actually didn't want to help plead for Hua Liuli, but it wouldn't hurt to come and watch the excitement.
As soon as they reached the door, they heard the laughter of the Emperor.
Had he gone crazy after finding out that the Hua family was privately hiding the dragon robe?
"The two esteemed ministers are unaware. It wasn't Fushou Junzhu who placed the dragon robe, but Zhen had it sent to her."
Consort Xian's steps halted, her mind filled with confusion. He can do that?
"Your Majesty?"
Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo were equally astonished, staring at Emperor Changlong with disbelief, thinking that something was wrong with their ears.
Krish728
Author's Note:
Emperor Changlong: Alright, Zhen will take the blame for this one too.
"Wait, wait," Yao Wenying called out to Hua Liuli, her teeth trembling with fear.
Private possession of the dragon robe was something that had happened in the previous dynasty as well. The crown prince of that time was involved in the matter and was ultimately deposed and imprisoned for the rest of his life.
"We can't go to the Crown Prince," Yao Wenying took a deep breath, "This situation, we can't burden the Crown Prince."
"Why?" Yao Jiamin couldn't understand, "The Emperor dotes on the Crown Prince the most. In times like these, it's more effective for the Crown Prince to intercede than anyone else."
"But privately keeping the dragon robe is a grave crime. Do you all remember the deposed crown prince from the previous dynasty, who was imprisoned for life?" Yao Wenying exclaimed urgently, "The Crown Prince is Fushou Junzhu's betrothed. This matter coming to light would be most detrimental to the Crown Prince."
Yao Jiamin froze, then she turned to look at Hua Liuli with concern, "What should we do now? What's the matter with that private estate?"
"The private estate was bestowed upon me by the Emperor when I was conferred the title of Fushou Junzhu. The servants inside were assigned by the Imperial Household Department. Most of these servants were punished for major crimes in their families and were reduced to slavery," Hua Liuli explained.
Apart from occasionally visiting her private estate, she hadn't meticulously managed the property there. Now that a dragon robe suddenly appeared in her private estate, she needed to carefully recall how many rooms there were in the estate.
The servants who had passed through the Imperial Household Department should not have any major issues unless someone had already tampered with them before they were assigned to the private estate.
"What should we do now?" Yao Jiamin stomped her feet in frustration, "Hua Liuli, don't panic. I will go back and ask my mother to inquire if there's anyone who can help intercede."
After saying that, she didn't even bother to take the carriage and ran down the stairs to snatch a guard's horse. She mounted the horse and prepared to ride back to her residence.
"Wait," Hua Liuli pulled the reins, and the horse neighed, coming to a stop.
"What are you doing?" Yao Jiamin was startled, "Are your hands okay?"
"I'm fine," Hua Liuli patted the horse and advised Yao Jiamin, "We can't gallop through the busy streets. You're in such a rush, but what if you accidentally hurt someone?"
"You are already in this kind of situation, yet you still remember this," Yao Jiamin sighed helplessly, "So what should we do now?"
"What else can we do?" Hua Liuli pursed her lips, "Since it's a problem with my private estate, I will go and explain to the Emperor myself."
Hua Liuli boarded the carriage and said to the coachman, "Go, to the palace."
Watching the carriage of the Hua family leave at a steady pace, Yao Jiamin kicked the wheel of her carriage in anger, "Resorting to such cunning methods. What kind of hearts do these people have?"
The Hua family had sacrificed a lot to guard the borders, and now that there was finally peace in the world, the Hua family is now being accused of privately keeping the dragon robe. It was too much of an insult to them.
Thinking of General Wei, whom she admired the most, enduring so much injustice, Yao Jiamin's eyes turned red. She quickly turned around to head towards the carriage.
"Jiamin, where are you going?" Yao Wenyin called out to Yao Jiamin.
"I'm going to seek help from my mother," Yao Jiamin gritted her teeth, "I don't believe the Hua family would privately keep the dragon robe!"
Yao Wenyin nodded firmly, "Then I will go seek help from my grandfather."
Tian Shan glanced at the two sisters and said in a low voice, "Then I'll go to the palace and plead with my aunt."
Tian Shan didn't have much confidence in saying these words. Her aunt, Consort Xian, had never been fond of the Crown Prince, and more importantly, if the Crown Prince were to be implicated in this matter, her cousin, Ying Wang, would benefit the most. Her aunt might not be willing to help.
However, even if there was no hope, they had to try.
None of the young ladies believed that the Hua family would do such a thing.
As Hua Liuli's carriage arrived at the palace gate, another carriage happened to be coming out from inside.
The carriage slowed down and the person inside lifted the curtain. Hua Liuli recognized her, "Second Princess."
"Fushou Junzhu," the Second Princess seemed to already know about the private possession of the dragon robe. After a moment of hesitation, she spoke, "Junzhu, there are several important officials in Father Emperor's study right now. If you go at this time, please be extra careful."
"Thank you for the information, Second Princess," Hua Liuli smiled, "I have a clear conscience as I haven't done anything wrong."
"The two generals are loyal and devoted; they would never do this thing," the Second Princess said with a gentle smile, "But Father Emperor is still angry at the moment. If anything happens, Junzhu, please don't worry. The Crown Prince sincerely cares for you, and he will definitely come to your rescue."
Hua Liuli glanced at the Second Princess and slightly curved her lips, "Indeed."
After giving a slight nod to Hua Liuli, the Second Princess put down the curtain.
After the Second Princess's carriage left, Hua Liuli's carriage continued on its way.
No one hindered them along the road, and even the palace maids and eunuchs gave her respectful salutations, although their gazes held a hint of strangeness.
Hua Liuli strode to the gate of the Chengyang Palace, where Zhao Sancai, who was guarding it, saw her and approached with a gentle smile, "Junzhu, you've come?"
"Head Eunuch Zhao, I have urgent matters to discuss with His Majesty. Please inform him on my behalf."
"His Majesty has already told this old servant that if the Junzhu comes, she can go in directly without prior notice."
"Thank you," Hua Liuli thanked him and walked through the gate.
While Hua Liuli's little sisters believed in the Hua family, it didn't mean that everyone else did.
"Your Majesty, private possession of the dragon robe is a grave crime associated with rebellion. Before it is determined whether Fushou Junzhu is innocent, this subject believes that Hua Yingting should not continue to hold the position of the Commander of the Imperial Guards," Wang Daren said.
"Wang Daren's words are truly amusing. If there hasn't been a conviction yet, why should General Hua be removed from his post?" Zhang Shuo, the Minister of Justice, retorted, "If we follow your logic, I can suspect you of embezzlement and bribery. Shouldn't your entire family be suspended from duty until the matter is clarified?"
"You!" Wang Daren fumed, "Zhang Daren, don't use sophistry with me."
"I'm speaking logically, not using sophistry," Zhang Shuo said, "Investigating the case is the responsibility of the Prefect of Jingzhou and the Ministry of Justice. If we can determine the verdict with just your words, then the Prefect of Jingzhou and the Ministry of Justice can all take a break."
"Zhang Daren, are you colluding with the Hua family to protect them?" Wang Daren challenged.
"Wang Daren, your statement doesn't make sense. I am currently speaking with you, does that mean I am colluding with you?" Zhang Shuo no longer paid attention to Wang Daren and turned to Emperor Changlong, bowing respectfully, "Your Majesty, this matter is extraordinary and even goes against reason. This subject believes it is necessary to quickly investigate the truth and clear the name of Fushou Junzhu."
Emperor Changlong looked at the two officials, who had been debating since they entered, and slowly sipped his tea, "Have the two esteemed ministers reached a conclusion?"
Only then did Zhang Shuo and Wang Daren realize that His Majesty hadn't expressed his opinion on the matter since they entered. Upon this realization, they felt somewhat embarrassed.
"Fushou Junzhu's private estate was originally an imperial estate, which Zhen bestowed upon Fushou Junzhu not long ago. Even the servants in the estate were assigned by Zhen," Emperor Changlong looked at the exquisitely embroidered dragon robe on the imperial desk, "Fushou Junzhu, personally chosen by Zhen as the future Crown Princess, would she be foolish enough to secretly hide a dragon robe in the imperial estate bestowed upon her?"
"Your Majesty, there is a saying that the most dangerous place is the safest," Wang Daren continued, "If it hadn't been for a thief being discovered in the estate, who would have known that Fushou Junzhu had hidden a dragon robe in her private estate?"
"Fushou Junzhu is a young lady, so this dragon robe is obviously not prepared for herself," Wang Daren's gaze swept over the dragon robe, "Perhaps it was prepared for someone she cares about."
Who are the men that Fushou Junzhu cares about?
It's none other than Hua Yingting, her three older brothers, and... the Crown Prince.
"This subject understands that Your Majesty doesn't want to suspect the Hua family, but this matter concerns the stability of the country. Please consider it carefully," Wang Daren didn't dare to mention the Crown Prince and directed suspicion toward the Hua family.
In fact, he had long suspected the Hua family. They not only controlled hundreds of thousands of troops guarding the borders but also held significant power in the Imperial Guards. If they had any rebellious intentions, the capital city would be in danger.
"Your Majesty, this humble subject seeks an audience," Hua Liuli stood respectfully outside the curtain.
Both Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo turned their heads in surprise, looking at Hua Liuli standing outside. How could she dare to enter the palace at a time like this?
If any other younger generation were in trouble, they would surely stay at home and let the elders of the family handle it. Unexpectedly, Fushou Junzhu had come alone. Wasn't she afraid that His Majesty would imprison her right away?
"Come in," Emperor Changlong's expression softened slightly. When he saw Hua Liuli enter, though her face appeared pale, there was no sign of guilt or remorse. He then said, "Zhao Sancai, bring a stool for Fushou Junzhu."
"Thank you, Your Majesty," Hua Liuli lightly coughed, covering her mouth with her hand.
"Your health is not good. Don't rush into the palace for such minor matters," Emperor Changlong waited for Hua Liuli to sit down before continuing, "Does the Crown Prince know that you've come to the palace?"
Hua Liuli shook her head and honestly replied, "His Royal Highness is not yet aware."
Emperor Changlong's heart instantly tensed up. If the Crown Prince caused a scene later, accusing him of mistreating his future bride, wouldn't it strain their father-son relationship?
Wang Daren, seeing that His Majesty didn't rebuke Fushou Junzhu and even let her a take seat, couldn't help but say, "Your Majesty, since Fushou Junzhu is already here, she should explain the situation."
"Wang Daren," Emperor Changlong said, "Fushou Junzhu is in poor health and still young. Take your time to speak. Don't rush. Don't frighten her. If she is truly innocent, Zhen will ensure she receives justice."
Wang Daren: "..."
Your Majesty, we are discussing the matter of private possession of the dragon robe. You are the Emperor. Someone is encroaching upon your position, shouldn't you show a sense of urgency?
Wang Daren turned his head and looked at Fushou Junzhu. He saw the petite and lovely Junzhu, who had a smile on her face — a smile that was both timid and shy. As he gazed at her fair and tender face, Wang Daren, who was over fifty years old, couldn't help but think of his granddaughter at home.
"Fu-Fushou Junzhu, do you have anything to explain regarding the dragon robe in your private estate?" Wang Daren's voice involuntarily softened, "Take your time. If you are truly innocent, His Majesty will definitely ensure justice for you."
"Thank you, Daren," Hua Liuli smiled gratefully at him. With her naturally good looks, her smile made the old man even more fond of her.
Seeing this smile, Wang Daren felt a bit guilty. Perhaps he genuinely wished well for Fushou Junzhu. This adorable and timid young girl didn't seem like someone with the courage to privately hide the dragon robe.
Could it have been the Crown Prince?
Under the guise of his betrothed, the Crown Prince, did he hide the dragon robe in Fushou Junzhu's private estate? If it had been discovered, the blame would have fallen on Fushou Junzhu...
Wang Daren secretly glanced at Emperor Changlong. The more he thought about it, the more he felt that the Crown Prince, with his arrogant temperament, was capable of doing this kind of thing. A pity though, Fushou Junzhu is now implicated in the conspiracy without knowing why.
"Your Majesty..."
Before Hua Liuli could speak, Zhao Sancai's voice rang out, "Your Majesty, Royal Princess Shunan seeks an audience."
Emperor Changlong was somewhat surprised, "What is she here for?"
Taking a glance at his well-behaved future daughter-in-law, Emperor Changlong said, "Let her come in."
"Imperial Brother!" As soon as Royal Princess Shunan entered the hall, she urgently exclaimed, "This must be a deliberate plot against the Hua family and the Crown Prince."
Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo exchanged glances. Didn't Royal Princess Shunan dislike the Crown Prince the most? At a time like this, instead of seizing the opportunity to criticize the Crown Prince, she was actually pleading for the future Crown Princess?
The emotions of the imperial family were truly more complex than a spider's web.
In a hurry, Royal Princess Shunan respectfully greeted Emperor Changlong and then turned to see Hua Liuli. She quickly walked over to her and said directly, "Liuli is weak and timid. How could she dare to do such a thing?"
"That private estate is an imperial estate, and the servants inside are assigned by the Imperial Household Department," Royal Princess Shunan said, "I believe these servants must be involved. Why don't we capture them all and interrogate them one by one to ensure justice for Fushou Junzhu?"
"You're right. These servants should be interrogated," Emperor Changlong said to Hua Liuli, "Originally, Zhen planned to provide you with some capable servants, but Zhen never expected these servants to be so incompetent and cause you so much trouble. After this incident, you can rearrange the servants to take care of the private estate and not burden yourself."
Hua Liuli looked at Emperor Changlong in confusion. Did His Majesty not suspect her at all?
"Yes," Royal Princess Shunan sighed with relief when she saw that Emperor Changlong didn't suspect Hua Liuli, "If Junzhu doesn't understand, I can send some of my estate's servants to you."
Zhang Shuo: "..."
This seems like a perfect opportunity to plant spies in Fushou Junzhu's private estate!
"Why trouble yourself, Your Highness?"
"It's not a trouble. I have too many servants in my estate, and I've been worried about the cost of maintaining them," Royal Princess Shunan smiled, "You're actually helping me by sharing the burden."
"Thank you, Your Highness."
Zhang Shuo: "..."
Well, he's a fool.
Consort Xian, accompanied by Tian Shan, arrived at the entrance of the main hall in Chenyang Palace. She actually didn't want to help plead for Hua Liuli, but it wouldn't hurt to come and watch the excitement.
As soon as they reached the door, they heard the laughter of the Emperor.
Had he gone crazy after finding out that the Hua family was privately hiding the dragon robe?
"The two esteemed ministers are unaware. It wasn't Fushou Junzhu who placed the dragon robe, but Zhen had it sent to her."
Consort Xian's steps halted, her mind filled with confusion. He can do that?
"Your Majesty?"
Wang Daren and Zhang Shuo were equally astonished, staring at Emperor Changlong with disbelief, thinking that something was wrong with their ears.
Krish728
Author's Note:
Emperor Changlong: Alright, Zhen will take the blame for this one too.
