Chapter 1586: Too Terrifying

Editor: Henyee Translations

In truth, the benevolent Crown Prince genuinely held these sentiments, and his emotions were sincere from the depths of his heart.

Reflecting on Shao Yunduan’s words spoken at the Heavenly Mansion in front of the Fourth Prince the previous day, the Crown Prince felt a sudden pang of sympathy for his brother. Simultaneously, he understood that Shao Yunduan likely harbored resentment against him. Recognizing this, he grappled with conflicting emotions.

Lord Qin, pushing aside his tangled thoughts, hastened back to the Fourth Prince’s residence.

The Fourth Prince conveyed surprise, shock, heartache, and sighs, ultimately expressing a mix of sadness and magnanimity. Despite Head Steward Wen’s lack of actual wrongdoing, the prince acknowledged his choice to atone for his perceived sins through punishment. In light of this, the Fourth Prince arranged for the residence to handle the funeral proceedings and ensure a proper burial.

This move aimed to appease Madam Shao, Lord Shao, and General Zheng.

Lord Qin’s heart chilled at the turn of events. Struggling to maintain composure, he respectfully bowed and offered praises to the Fourth Prince, nearly escaping the residence.

The experience was chilling–although he was the one responsible for the death, the Fourth Prince managed to put on a flawless act in front of Madam Shao. The deception was unnerving.

With the perpetrator having ostensibly “committed suicide,” the matter concluded naturally.

Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan, however, remained skeptical of the alleged suicides by the chief steward’s uncle and nephew, knowing that the impact and consequences of the incident were substantial. While serious, it didn’t warrant the uncle and nephew paying with their lives.

They would prostrate themselves, offering apologies. The punishment would involve numerous beatings and confinement for several months, perhaps even half a year.

However, the notion that the uncle and nephew would willingly “commit suicide” raised doubts. Did they possess the courage for such a drastic step? Who else, besides the Fourth Prince, would have both the motive and capability to orchestrate such an event?

“The Fourth Prince is truly ruthless!” Qiao Xuan exclaimed.

Shao Yunduan sneered. “He’s not the one facing death, so why wouldn’t he resort to it? Despite his abilities, he remains a servant!”

While Shao Yunduan acknowledged the Fourth Prince’s capabilities, he didn’t view the situation as a loss. Seizing an opportunity to neutralize a capable servant seemed a pragmatic move.

Upon learning of the outcome, Zheng Sangge and the others maintained silence. Having promised General Sun a visit to the Sun residence, Zheng Sangge adhered to his commitment. However, General Sun was unexpectedly absent due to urgent matters.

The Sun family’s head steward extended a warm invitation to Zheng Sangge, expressing apologies on behalf of General Sun. “General Sun had to leave the city urgently. He insisted that if General Zheng arrived, we should extend our hospitality and entertain him.”

Zheng Sangge concealed the mockery deep within him, adopting a composed demeanor and expressing around 30 to 40% gratitude.

Having witnessed much of life’s complexities, he no longer harbored illusions. A decade ago, he could have garnered attention and saved General Sun’s life, earning the general’s favor. However, with the passage of time, Zheng Sangge lacked official standing, societal status, influential connections, and a notable family background. It was unrealistic for General Sun to genuinely regard him with importance.