Chapter 328: The Highest Realm of Compromise
Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation
mperor Huangfu Quan’s expression turned serious as he solemnly said, “Firstly, the Yu family must allow Princess Ping’an to come forward and write a self-reflection letter, confessing that she spread false rumors, smeared Liu Shimei’s innocence, and vandalized her house. Submit the letter to me and keep a record of the case. Secondly, Princess Ping’an must apologize to the Crown Prince and King Dun Yu, explaining the misunderstanding to avoid causing further discord among siblings.”
Hearing this, Liu Shimei understood. The Emperor was trying to smooth things over!
After all, the Yu family had made significant contributions, and the Grand Princess was a relative. While what Yu Wanqing did was significant enough to cause trouble, it could be interpreted as a momentary slip of the tongue.
Then, it would depend on whether the Emperor intended to take it lightly or not.
Liang Wei was not convinced and wanted to speak again, but Liu Shimei pulled his sleeve again, indicating that he should not anger the Emperor at this time.
After all, Emperor Huangfu Quan had made a ruling, and opposing it would be tantamount to questioning the Emperor. Once that label was attached, it would be difficult to remove, and it might give an opportunity for Huangfu Jiao to capitalize on it and put them in a disadvantaged position.
Emperor Huangfu Quan continued, “Lastly, Princess Ping’an has acted improperly, spreading rumors and being arrogant and unvirtuous. She will be removed from the list of potential Crown Princess candidates. Additionally…”
He paused and said, “Considering the Yu family’s ancestors’ great contributions to our Great Shu, we will retain her t.i.tle as Princess and send her to the Western Regions for a political marriage in six months!”
When this verdict was announced, everyone’s expressions changed.
Liu Shimie was also somewhat surprised by the political marriage proposal. Huangfu Quan’s move to compromise was the epitome of statesmanship.
Yu Wanqing had caused some trouble, but sending her away for a political marriage meant she would be far from the Capital, and whatever trouble she stirred there would not be Great Shu’s concern. Since she was already leaving and they would never meet again, what could Liu Shimei possibly have to be dissatisfied with?
The marriage alliance sounded nice, but in reality, life in the Western Regions would be difficult. It was also a severe punishment for Yu Wanqing.
However, Emperor Huangfu Quan did not take her life, did not severely harm the Yu family’s foundation, and also appeased the Liang family. This way, he maintained the balance in the court.
Every decision made by a ruler was indeed intertwined with imperial power. Truly worthy of the name ‘Huangfu Quan’, his imperial methods were impressive!
With the apology and punishment in place, the Liang family could not argue anymore. Would Liang Wei dare to oppose it again?
The Yu family had noot been entirely ruined, and everything they currently had was preserved. The Grand Princess had no grounds for complaint either.
Both sides were settled!
“Do you have any objections to my ruling?” Huangfu Quan asked.
“The Emperor is wise!”
Anyone who dared to object would be asking for trouble!
Emperor Huangfu Quan then looked at Crown Prince Huangfu He and said, “Crown Prince, this matter concerns you. You shall oversee its execution. Handle the Crown Prince’s reputation and brotherly relationship carefully.”
This sentence could be considered a warning, meaning: If you kept proper boundaries, unnecessary conflicts would not arise.
Everyone knew about the close relationship between the Crown Prince and Eldest Miss Liu. They had to be particularly cautious in handling such a connection.
What else could Crown Prince Huangfu He say?
He replied, “Your son understands. Please rest a.s.sured, Imperial Father.”
Emperor Huangfu Quan then looked at Liu Fuyun and Liang Wei and said, “This matter is settled. You both should not make things difficult for the Yu family.”
Liu Fuyun and Liang Wei also bowed, saying, “We shall follow your decree.” Huangfu Jiao’s face looked the most unsightly. However, Emperor Huangfu Quan had already tried his best to maintain the Yu family’s reputation. She knew that making more trouble would not lead to a better outcome.
Still, she felt sorry for her granddaughter, who would be sent to the Western Regions for a political marriage. At least there was half a year to think of a way to persuade Yu Wanqing to stay.
But this was a bitter pill to swallow. She glanced at Liu Shimei, considering if there was any way to accomplish this.
Everyone left the throne room, and both sides looked at each other with disgust!
The Liang family and the Yu family had formed a feud!
However, Liu Shimei was concerned about something else.. She turned to the Chief Eunuch who was leading the way and asked, “Eunuch Long An, where has King Dun Yu been these past few days?”