Chapter 648: Willing to Enter the Palace

ƁΟXNƟVEL.CʘMAt this juncture, the court’s situation had gradually stabilized.

The civil and military officials, inherently prone to opportunism, swayed with the prevailing winds. Given the Third Prince’s legitimacy as the rightful heir to the throne, it was unsurprising that they rallied behind the new king.

Initially, the emperor refrained from a harsh purge. He adopted a lenient policy, reserving severe punishments only for ministers who had collaborated with the Public House in nefarious activities. Those with less severe implications received pardons.

Yet, individuals understood this respite might be temporary. If the emperor chose to settle scores later, pinning a crime on them would be a simple matter.

Cognizant ministers devised strategies. After a brief tenure, they voluntarily resigned, forfeited their family wealth, and retreated to their hometowns. They opted for a life outside the realm of officialdom, deeming it preferable to potential liquidation.

Others deemed themselves indispensable, banking on their capabilities to contribute to the nation. They speculated that, as long as their utility persisted, the emperor would treat them accordingly.

Divergent mentalities pervaded among civil and military officials.

Upon Su Bin’s family’s arrival in the capital, Qin Silong followed suit.

The Emperor bestowed the General Manor upon Qin Silong.

Su Bin, too, received a mansion and an imperial edict. The position of Prime Minister remained vacant, expressly reserved for Su Bin.

Su Bin’s conjectures proved accurate. The new emperor valued talent, appointing him as Prime Minister. Additionally, the emperor, in alignment with Su Bin, had hinted at a desire for Su Ning to enter the palace. Though no official decree had been issued, Su Bin sensed that declining would contravene the emperor’s intentions.

Upon their return home, Su Bin persistently attempted to dissuade Su Ning. “Little Sister, ponder this carefully. Should you wish to abstain from entering the palace, I’ll implore the emperor to retract the decree, even if it costs me my position as Prime Minister.”

Su Ning, however, shook her head resolutely. “Third Brother, I am willing to enter the palace!”

“If Father were still alive, he’d be overjoyed. Why are you relinquishing this opportunity?”

Su Bin lapsed into silence, acknowledging his sister’s sincerity.

Participating in the Imperial Examination had once been his pursuit of high office. Fearing the unpredictable nature of the Emperor at the time, he had left the capital to prevent his wife from catching the eye of the Crown Prince. In doing so, he forfeited the chance for recognition.

Now, the opportunity presented itself.

As Prime Minister, he possessed the authority to clear his father’s name.

Su Ning pressed on, “With your assistance, the Emperor can undoubtedly govern the country more effectively, ensuring the well-being of all citizens.”

“Another Prime Minister may lack your strategic acumen or concern for the people.”

Su Bin found himself astonished at his sister’s newfound eloquence. When did she acquire such articulate expression?

“Yet, my primary reason for embracing palace life is my affection for the Emperor!”

Before her third brother, Su Ning grew bolder, unleashing her utmost effort for personal happiness.

Su Bin found himself speechless. What could he say?

There was nothing to say.

Qin Zhenzhen sighed inwardly and offered a cautionary reminder to Su Ning.

“The Emperor merely expressed his desire for you to enter the palace. He hasn’t specified your status. If you become a concubine, be prepared to be subject to the whims of others.

“With three palaces and six courtyards, even if his affection is genuine, he won’t be able to offer you much. Brace yourself for the possibility of being overlooked.”

“Furthermore, within the palace, women are bound to engage in schemes against each other. You must be ready for a complete transformation.”

Throughout this interval, Qin Zhenzhen had unearthed numerous books detailing palace intrigues, urging Su Ning to comprehend the harsh reality.

Yet, it became evident that Qin Zhenzhen’s endeavors were futile.

Su Ning staunchly declared, “Even if I must assume the role of a concubine, I am still willing to enter the palace!”