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墨書 Inktalez
The Xuande Emperor pondered this issue deeply, only to sadly realize that there might truly be no solution.
The Spirit-Bearing Procession was lengthy, clearly exceeding the number of a single family. The common people later discovered several other family spirit carts within the procession; they were all steadfast supporters of the Sang Family, who had been implicated and punished after the Sang Family's downfall. By the end of the procession, there were even names of commoners who had lost their lives due to their association with the Sang Family.
Although not everyone’s remains were accounted for, they had done their best. This scene moved the onlookers profoundly; some even found their family members' names and immediately wanted to step forward to identify them. However, they were merely ashes now, making identification impossible. Others nearby quickly pulled them back, preventing any delays in the procession's progress.
The Spirit-Bearing Procession continued onward and stopped in front of the gates of Prince Jing's Residence. Sang Bai Jue sensed it was time and amplified his voice using Inner Strength to address everyone briefly.
Now, only a few members of the Sang Family remained, and the title of Jing Wang had long been stripped away from them. The Prince Jing's Residence was a place of sorrow for the Sang Family. Therefore, they unanimously decided not to reside there any longer.
Yesterday, I inquired with the Ministry of Revenue and learned that the land of Prince Jing's Residence had not changed ownership in the household registration; the Sang Family still held decision-making power over it. We planned to rename Prince Jing's Residence as the Hall of Heroes, specifically to enshrine the memorial tablets of Great Jing's heroes. Regardless of status or rank, anyone who had contributed to the people could receive offerings from all.
This initiative was meant to win public favor and aimed to change everyone's perception of the Sang Family as extravagant. Once the people expressed their emotions, Sang Bai Jue arranged for someone in the crowd to shout in honor of the heroes and martyrs.
Then, in the open space between the palace and Prince Jing's Residence, a wave of kneeling swept through; officials followed suit and knelt down as well. Only Sang Bai Jue and the Xuande Emperor remained standing on the wall.
The Xuande Emperor felt a weight on his shoulders that he could not resist and slowly knelt down. The process felt prolonged, filled with humiliation and hatred in his heart.
Sang Bai Jue knelt beside him and whispered in his ear, "This is what your Qin Family owes to the Sang Family. Anyone can deal with the Sang Family, but you Qin Family have no right! The throne was relinquished by the Sang Family; it was the Sang Family that protected Great Jing Territory. Your Qin Family has faced crises multiple times because it was the Sang Family that stepped up to help you resolve them."
The Sang Family had treated you sincerely but ended up being repaid with ingratitude and betrayal. You have lived in fear these days, filled with many speculations. I will tell you now that all your guesses are correct: The Sang Family relinquished the throne; it is time for your Qin Family to return it.
On what grounds? Simply because the Sang Family has won public favor over your Qin Family; simply because officials no longer wish to follow you; simply because your Qin Family has no successors; simply because your Qin Family has been unfaithful.
I heard that you do not wish to be a king without a country, so you are eager to pass on your position? Now that the Sang Family has returned, do you think I will let you have your way?
Because you did not harm the Sang Family, I will give you a choice: Will you be a king without a country or return power to the Sang Family? As desired by all under heaven, leave behind some reputation—this is all within your control.
I give you time to think, but don't test my patience; I can't wait too long.
The performance had ended, yet everyone lingered, unwilling to leave as they watched the spirit tablet and urn enter Prince Jing's Residence. Sang Bai Jue asked the Court Officials for assistance, while Shi Yun summoned the Lei Family and a group of craftsmen who had been idling at the Grand Temple to renovate Prince Jing's Residence. The Sang Family covered the expenses, and the common folk came forward voluntarily to help, unstoppable in their eagerness.
The overseer, following the Sang Family's instructions, ensured that the labor of the townspeople was counted fairly, settling accounts daily without delay. This action further enhanced their reputation among the people.
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