Chapter 5, near Lanjiao Road

This question is quite unusual, how would she know what to do! She was still pondering over the task assigned by the Control of Military Affairs, and replied in a formal manner according to the regulations: "Your Majesty may not want to hear this... Every parent in the world hopes for you to establish a family... You are indeed of age, and as the Crown Prince, it is a responsibility to start a family early for the sake of the state."

Girls outside typically begin discussing marriage around the age of sixteen or seventeen, while those who are twenty-two and still unmarried are often considered to be left behind. However, the situation in the palace is different; the ages of female officials are often overlooked. Generally, after serving in the palace for fifteen years, as long as there is no specific directive from above to retain them, they can continue to serve in their roles while also having the option to marry on their own.

The lady-in-waiting has always been curious about her private matters. Although their meetings are not frequent, she inquires each time. Perhaps it is a natural inclination for women to be interested in such matters, or maybe she has heard some rumors. She even set aside her hand warmer, placing it on the kang table, smiling as she straightened her posture, looking at her with a desire to speak yet holding back.

The Crown Prince sat down on the southern kang and said, "Today, the Emperor brought up the matter of selecting a Crown Princess again. What do you think we should do?"

The Milky Way made her feel uneasy, yet she still had her calculations in mind. In front of such people, one must not be too honest; the more honest she was, the more suspicion it would arouse.

To accompany a ruler is akin to accompanying a tiger; this ancient saying is truly timeless. Just like the current situation, where the areas illuminated by the sun are filled with brightness, while those not reached by its light, such as the base of this wall, remain cold and murky in the shadows

At that time, my grandfather served as the Governor of Jingzhao, handling cases exclusively from the imperial city. He was known for his integrity and prudence throughout his life, earning an excellent reputation. He was also known by the courtesy name Shen Zhai, and thus the people of the capital referred to him as Shen Zhai Gong. Even today, those who had dealings with him in the past still give him a thumbs up. However, beneath the imperial city, if one were to pick up a brick and throw it into a crowd, eight out of ten people would have some connection to the emperor. Cases in the capital are difficult to adjudicate; merely adhering to the law can sometimes be easier. Yet, at times, the law serves merely as a facade; when the emperor wishes for someone to live or die, one must have an understanding of the underlying currents. If misfortune strikes and the emperor's will is biased, and the palace's master cannot save face, who will fill that gap? Naturally, it will be you.

I know you have a high spirit. Back in the day, your family’s old master was indeed a principled official who would rather bend than break. What a pity it turned out like this..." He extended his hand and gently patted her hand. "Women in the palace, those who stand out, all have such fates, causing great distress to Lord Su. The Crown Prince's temper is truly like a dog gnawing at the moon. The one who was previously betrothed has passed away; next year, they will just find another. No matter how deep the feelings are, one cannot remain unmarried for a lifetime, right?

Zuo Zhaoyi mentioned her grandfather, whose face had long since faded from memory, yet his figure was distinctly etched in her mind. He was a tall and thin old man, and the family kept a gentleman who was taller when lying down than when standing. He had no significant hobbies, usually drinking a little wine and playing Go in his leisure time. As he grew older, he enjoyed playing with his grandchildren and rarely engaged in social gatherings. Yet, such a person was wronged and spent a month in prison. After being released, he struggled with himself, and not long after, he passed away. Yet, such a person was wronged and spent a month in prison. After being released, he struggled with himself, and not long after, he passed away.

Does Your Highness have any instructions?

Since the situation is still unclear, she is too lazy to spend any more effort on it. Looking at the clock, it is almost time. "After talking for so long, there's nothing to raise suspicion. That's enough, you may go now, and do your job well for the master." She lightly dismissed him, as it was time to feed the birds.

The lady-in-waiting sighed softly, "Twenty-two... is quite an age."

The Milky Way looked up in surprise and asked, "Where did you hear that from, my lord?"

The ground is covered with exquisite hibiscus-patterned velvet carpets, and stepping on them feels like walking on clouds. The crown prince strolls with his hands clasped behind his back, the hem of his robe trailing a sense of tranquility, intertwining with the fragrance of the white plum burning in the stove, creating a subtle and distant aroma

Firecrackers must explode, and there must be someone to light the fuse; it is certain that whoever gets involved will be unlucky. Xinghe steeled himself and entered, catching a glimpse of a dark blue robe corner by the window, but did not dare to look closely. He tucked his hands and reported upward: "I have returned from Fengchu Palace, and the Lady Zhaoyi is in good health, looking very spirited. I have come specifically to report to Your Majesty."

Raising her eyes to look at the sun, it was already past morning. She quickened her pace to return to the Eastern Palace. Beyond the Jiade Gate was the Chongjiao Hall, the grand hall where the Crown Prince governed. On both sides stood the Spring Pavilion, and at the palace gates were guards on duty, each clad in armor, exuding an imposing presence. Typically, palace maids were not allowed to enter or exit from here, but there were no restrictions for female officials. Xinghe did not belong to either of these institutions, but often followed the Crown Prince, being familiar with her fellow students and the Zanshan.

The Left Imperial Concubine is certainly not genuinely concerned about the Crown Prince's marriage. If it were up to her, it would be best if the Crown Prince never married at all. Initially, there was speculation about whether he had truly developed feelings for Su Xinghe, but upon further reflection, it seemed illogical. After all, if the master wanted a few women, would it not be easy? If he fancied someone, he could simply take her into his residence. Engaging in secret affairs and fleeting encounters, where is the enjoyment in that?

He also seemed to find it reasonable, fiddling with the prayer beads and murmuring: "A man's home is empty, and it cannot be discussed..."

Walking through the corridor with her sleeves tucked in, the sun was not particularly dazzling, yet the golden thread embroidery on her cuffs had become hot to the touch after being exposed for a long time. She let out a deep sigh as the white mist spread out before her; when the mist dissipated, the red walls and green tiles, the towering mountains one after another, remained as resplendent and indifferent as when she first entered the palace.

As His Majesty raised his head to look, Dequan stood under the dripping water, holding a whisk and squinting his eyes. Upon seeing her arrive, he said nothing, and his long face seemed to droop down to his navel. He extended a finger inward, indicating that the master was in the hall. The temper of those above is unpredictable, a common ailment of the powerful; those of us in service cannot speak out, for if we incur their wrath, we would be kicked, and we wouldn't even dare to rub our sore spots in front of the master.

She felt that her words were impeccable. To be honest, she also hoped that the Crown Prince would soon marry a Crown Princess, so that when he inexplicably wanted to take her head, he would at least have some reservations. Unexpectedly, a cryptic smile appeared on the Crown Prince's face as he said to her in a gentle tone: "Therefore, I have already obtained my father's consent. Whenever Lord Su's belly shows signs of movement, I will immediately send someone to report to the throne. I estimate it won't be long, so please wait for my father's good news."

There are many people in the palace, as you know, and with more people comes more talk, a cacophony of voices, and the rumors become increasingly disorganized... I have heard that the Crown Prince is reluctant to get close to the few female officials around him, yet he seems to regard you with a different perspective. She couldn't help but hint at this, of course, stopping short of elaborating, and after finishing, she offered a smile that suggested she was trying to ease the tension. It is originally a good thing; after all, who wouldn't want to climb the social ladder, especially when it involves the Crown Prince... However, Lord Su, do not forget that the Duke's residence has connections with your family, and you are a sensible person. You cannot let minor romantic feelings jeopardize your future. Lord Su understands my meaning, does he not?

Listening to one's master is the mark of a good servant, yet she has no desire to be a servant at all. After entering the Control and Command Department, she gradually began to taste the sweetness of power, which can be quite addictive. Initially, she was merely going in circles with paperwork, but once she grasped real power, the time for her to truly showcase her abilities had finally arrived

Shen Zhaigong was merely someone who had filled a hole; his release from prison was due to the Emperor's recognition of his "minor contributions," and not a reversal of his case. However, the Emperor is well aware of the facts, which is why he repeatedly granted promotions to Shen Zhaigong's descendants. These individuals must forget both good and bad, continue to live on, harbor no grudges, and remain grateful for the Emperor's immense grace.

Xinghe smiled mockingly, noting that even her official position was obtained by standing on the shoulders of Shen Zhaigong. Originally, there was no need for compassion; in the end, the entire family became inextricably linked with Prince Jianping. The phrase from Zuo Zhaoyi, "Do a good job for your master," did not refer to the Crown Prince, but to Prince Jianping.

The person in front of the window spoke briefly, "Don't rush."

The person by the window remains silent, still standing there quietly. The starry river slightly lifts its gaze, and what meets the eye is a tapestry of beauty beyond the window. Tiny specks of dust float up and down in the light, evoking a sense of dreamlike melancholy.

The smile of the imperial consort transformed from a subtle, deeply meaningful speculation into a boundless and harmonious expression of great love

Today, I heard someone recite a poem. "The voice, like gold and jade, always carries a hint of coolness, gently and unhurriedly murmuring, 'In the pursuit of an official career, one must be meticulous; the capital's trust is ever-present, and the respect for coal is always abundant. Do not discuss current affairs to show off heroism; all matters of humanity must remain vague. It is useless to argue, and it is useless to debate.'"

A flicker of pale blue and white crossed Xinghe's face. "In fact, those matters are not the most critical; what truly matters is that the master must have heirs. Offspring are the lifeblood for a royal family. Your status is extraordinary, and the Emperor has high hopes for you"

Master... unable to wait for a sign, she mustered her courage and called out, "If there are no other instructions, I shall take my leave."

The Crown Prince glanced at her indifferently, "It may not be clear even if we investigate openly. In my opinion, the officials sent out are of utmost importance; pulling out a radish brings the mud along with it, and those who are in the know will naturally have their whereabouts revealed. However, the court is like a pond; if the water is too clear, there will be no fish. When investigating, one must keep their fingers loosely together; if everything is too tightly sealed, it will surely lead to a complete disaster. Just pull out one or two as examples to warn others. Tell Nan Yushu not to cause panic among the people; the intention of the Zhengdian is to conduct a discreet investigation. If it stirs up a storm in the city, it will be difficult to explain to the Emperor."

Naturally, one must continue to listen when the speaker has not finished. She stepped back and stood upright, with her hands hanging down and her head lowered, resembling the manner in which he respectfully listened to the imperial edicts in front of his royal father

She nodded gently, "Not to mention the prince, even the sons of high-ranking officials in the court should not delay in starting a family. By doing this, the Emperor is anxious in his heart, and there are some things that are difficult to say directly..."

The lady-in-waiting said it was nothing, pulling out a handkerchief to dab at the corner of her mouth. Then, with her hands folded on her knees, the armor inlaid with red gold and emeralds glimmered as it entered a beam of light, the edges adorned with subtle wave patterns, giving it a rugged and majestic appearance

How old is Mr. Su this year

The Milky Way is busy, "I will go deliver the message right away"

He made a sound and said, "For example?"

Xinghe has once again been burdened with blame. Considering the situation in the palace, apart from the Crown Prince himself, it is likely that no one truly believes she is innocent.

With a heart full of anxiety, Xinghe bent down and said: "My lord, do not worry. I will immediately issue an order to the Military Control Department for a thorough investigation, and we will surely root out the culprit."

Xinghe slightly bowed and said, "Replying to Your Majesty, I am twenty-two years old this year"

Xinghe hurriedly stood up and said, "Your Highness's teachings, I shall never forget. The Crown Prince sometimes shows disrespect; he is the master, and I dare not defy him. However, because of this, it makes me understand even more that someone like me is merely a plaything in the eyes of the Crown Prince. Who would wish to be a plaything? I ask Your Highness to make a clear judgment."

On the road, I happened to encounter a magistrate, who inquired about the whereabouts of the Crown Prince. The magistrate, looking pale, replied: "Your Highness is not in a good mood today. He just lost his temper and kicked Dequan. He is now returning to the Li Zheng Hall."

"Where did you hear that? It has spread everywhere outside," he said coldly with a sneer. "What alarms me is not anything else, but the decayed scent of self-preservation that permeates this poem. I want this dynasty to flourish; it is far from enough for the officials in the capital to be loyal. Those who are sent to the two rivers, overseeing salt and grain taxation, if they fall short in any aspect, the court will be hindered."

This is quite difficult, she pondered for a moment and hesitantly said: "Should we approach it openly or covertly? If we go the covert route, it will likely be very challenging to get to the bottom of it..."

For example, if you are worried that you have a preference for same-sex relationships

However, just as he took half a step back, the Crown Prince furrowed his brows and said, "I have not finished speaking yet"

Xinghe Nuo Nuo stated that she could not understand this matter either. Initially, the emperor designated the daughter of the prime minister's family as the crown princess, but this crown princess passed away before the wedding. If the crown prince had feelings for her, it would be reasonable for him to decline the marriage in grief. However, the two had hardly met a few times, and to remain single because of this is quite unreasonable.

This is of no concern, as the rumors about you and me are already known throughout the palace

She did not know where the fire had originated, and she felt it inappropriate to ask further. Her mind was filled with doubts as she hurriedly made her way to the Li Zheng Hall

As Xinghe entered the hall, the palace was deep and spacious, with doors and windows wide open, sunlight casting golden diamonds of varying sizes on the golden bricks. The main hall was filled with tranquility, with several standing palace maids bowing their heads, even their breathing cautious. Heading west, in the warm west pavilion, was the crown prince's study. Xinghe glanced at the gatekeeper standing outside the curtain, who slightly nodded and lifted the soft curtain for her.

Not only to recruit people, but also by the emperor's decree, the assets and activities of all the officials must be investigated