"Your Majesty," the old minister began, "I believe the contributions of the Fourth Prince in disaster relief cannot be overlooked. He has tirelessly rushed to the Disaster Area, saving the victims from peril, and his achievements are evident. Although there were some irregularities in his orders, they were made in an emergency. If we impose severe penalties for such minor issues, it may discourage those who wish to serve the court sincerely. Given that we are currently in a critical period for appointing officials, I hope Your Majesty will reconsider."
At that moment, the court was divided into two factions, arguing fiercely with each other. Lin Feng thought to himself: At a crucial time like this, I still have to rely on my father-in-law. He glanced over at Xia Yuanji.
The ministers supporting Lin Feng argued passionately, emphasizing that urgent matters require flexibility and that reforming the Changping Granary is vital for the National Fortune and People's Livelihood; it cannot be abandoned due to procedural flaws. The conservatives clung tightly to the rules, loudly proclaiming that if this precedent were set, the court would never know peace again.
Both sides held their ground, their voices growing louder until the court resembled a noisy well. The Crown Prince, Lin Zheng, stood to one side in his bright yellow robes, adorned with a splendid jade belt. He watched the scene with a slight smile at the corners of his mouth, his eyes revealing a hint of smugness and cunning. Occasionally, he added fuel to the fire: "Father, Your son believes this matter concerns the order of the court and should be handled with caution. We must not show favoritism and ruin our ancestral rules, allowing others to gossip."
Though his words seemed fair, they were actually designed to push Lin Feng into a pit. Lin Feng looked at Lin Zheng and raised his voice: "Father, reforming the Changping Granary is urgent. The people in the Disaster Area are still eagerly awaiting rescue plans. Your son is willing to accept any scrutiny; all I ask is that we can expedite this matter and not let the victims suffer any longer."
With fervor in his voice and beads of sweat forming on his forehead, it was clear he was anxious. The Emperor remained silent for a long time, listening to the ministers' arguments while weighing the pros and cons in his heart. He understood Lin Feng's sincere intentions for reform but also recognized that rules should not be broken lightly. After much contemplation, he raised his hand to quell the disputes: "This matter will be put on hold for now. I will instruct the Ministry of Justice and the Supreme Court to conduct a thorough investigation and we will discuss it again in three days. Dismissed!"
His voice carried authority without anger, resonating throughout the court. As everyone dispersed, Lin Feng returned to his residence.
On the way back, he wore a grave expression filled with worry. Just as he stepped into his estate, Xia Qingyu came forward to greet him. Dressed in an elegant gown, her eyes were filled with concern as she softly reassured him: "Your Highness, do not worry. The innocent will always be vindicated; we will surely find evidence to prove your innocence."
As she spoke, she gently took Lin Feng's hand in hers, trying to convey warmth and strength.
Lin Feng held her hand, feeling the delicate touch, and his heart calmed slightly. Thanks to you, he thought, looking at the current situation; there would likely be more challenges ahead.
Xia Qingyu spoke softly, "Husband, you must be careful in the future!"
Lin Feng nodded but said nothing. He gazed into the distant sky, where it seemed an invisible gloom was slowly gathering.
After a moment of contemplation, Lin Feng set aside his worries. Perhaps he had been too anxious and hadn't anticipated such strong opposition from so many people. He thought to himself that if this group continued to cause trouble, it would be time to devise some strategies.
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