Who among those who can afford to be prosperous is the foolish one? Seeing Ren Anle being highly favored by the Crown Prince, everyone brings their gifts to her. The guests are all pleased for a moment. This female bandit, whose eyes always light up at the sight of money, received the gifts in such a manner that her hands became soft and her eyes narrowed into a line.
(shǒu ruǎn) - Soft hands (indicating being unable to refuse or resist)
Zhong Liwen looked at the bustling scene within the room with a calm expression and a slight smile on his face, but his eyes turned gloomy. These wealthy merchants usually presented rare and precious gifts to Mu Wang, which were far less valuable than what they presented to the Crown Prince today. They truly were a group of ungrateful people!
"Everyone has shown great kindness." Amidst the laughter and revelry, Han Ye raised his wine cup and took a sip.
"The treasures presented by all of you are truly extraordinary. As Gu resides in the Eastern Palace, far removed from the wealth of the common people, Gu is unaware of the value of these items. Gu fears not recognizing their true worth and thus disappointing your kind intentions."
Han Ye's subtle expression and the captivating gaze that came with overwhelming presence made the leading merchant slightly shiver. In a clear voice, he replied.
"Your Highness, the humble gifts we presented are all priceless treasures. If they can please Your Highness, it is more than enough."
The people responded one after another, and Han Ye's eyebrows and countenance relaxed as he burst into laughter.
"Good, good... Mu Tian Prefecture is indeed blessed with talented individuals and a blessed land. Zhong daren, you have done a remarkable job as a high-ranking official."
Zhong Liwen sat on the cold bench for a long time when suddenly he heard the Crown Prince call his name. His heart filled with joy, and he quickly bowed, repeatedly expressing his unworthiness. Unintentionally, he caught a glimpse of the Crown Prince's eyes, where a faint sense of indifference could be discerned, causing a momentary unease to flicker in his heart.
The feast quietly ended in the late night, and everyone bid farewell to the Crown Prince's entourage at the foot of the Linjiang Tower. Satisfied and contented, they each returned to their respective residences.
On the spacious street, the luxurious Eastern Palace's ceremonial procession was particularly eye-catching. Jian Song, holding a long sword, led the accompanying guards who followed quietly at a distance of about ten meters behind the two walking figures in the street.
The autumn wind was chilly, the full moon dimly lit the surroundings, and the footsteps were neither light nor heavy, just like the voice of Han Ye at this moment.
"Anle, is it the same in Southern Jin?"
After Han Ye left the Linjiang Tower, his expression remained indifferent and heavy. Ren Anle understood what he was thinking, but only replied.
"Your Highness cannot accept it?"
"Mu Tian Prefecture suffered calamities across a thousand miles, with tens of thousands of people dead or injured. Yet these merchants can easily produce treasures comparable to those in the Eastern Palace. They indulge in luxury while the commoners suffer, acting recklessly in the countryside. They should be punished."
"Under heaven, corrupt officials cannot be completely eradicated, and it is the same with unscrupulous merchants. Your Highness, there is truly no need to be overly concerned. Even in the southern region of Jin, where can one find a place of absolute purity?"