Free Web NovelChapter 1603: Chapter 6 City Full of Snow_2
Jiang Wuhua showed no sign of envy, only quietly said, "The Eleventh had a turbulent life, so it’s inevitable for the Imperial Father to show him more affection. While he was alive, I did not contend with him. Now that he is gone, there’s even less to dispute."
The Queen sighed and gently brushed Jiang Wuhua’s locks from his forehead, "He constantly shows compassion to this one and that one. When will he show you more? You are his own flesh and blood, the Crown Prince of Daqi. You were born late and didn’t accompany him through the most difficult times; is that your fault? Is it your fault to have the care of your mother? You are already so excellent, so faultless. Why is he so harsh with you?"
Jiang Wuhua remained calm in expression, not a hint of resentment, "To bear the weight of the state also means bearing the responsibilities of the state. Being harsh towards the Crown Prince is appropriate. If one errs after inheriting the throne, it harms the nation’s foundation. Only through countless trials can one become an enlightened ruler."
The anger and dissatisfaction on the Queen’s face disappeared instantly.
She sat there with dignity, exuding nobility and magnanimity, "It’s best if you think this way. Whether you genuinely think this way or not, you must always think this way."
Her complaints and dissatisfaction might be heartfelt, but when displayed, were entirely a test for the Crown Prince. If the Crown Prince doesn’t exhibit any feelings of resentment even in front of his mother, only then is he truly flawless in heart.
"I sincerely believe this way," Jiang Wuhua said.
The world knows that the former Crown Prince Jiang Wuliang was imprisoned in the Blue Stone Palace by the Son of Heaven for private words of resentment, sentenced to live out the rest of his life there.
By then, he had been deposed for six years. Six years without event, continuously striving for reinstatement, yet abruptly cutting off all possibility.
But how were these "private words of resentment" known to the Imperial Censor?
An example to warn against past mistakes for future learnings!
The Queen nodded in satisfaction, whether his heart is genuine or not doesn’t matter; she, as a mother, can’t judge it, nor needs to. It is good that he consistently presents this demeanor, that is truly a benevolence from the Eastern Palace.
She then asked, "When do you intend to achieve God Arrives?"
"In a while, the best opportunity has passed," Jiang Wuhua replied steadily, "The little Eleventh just departed. As his elder brother, if I choose this time for God Arrives, should everyone mourn the Eleventh, or be happy for me? The Imperial Father will inevitably ask, what does the Crown Prince intend to demonstrate? What does the Crown Prince want to do?"
"Very well, you are someone with plans." The Queen of Daqi was completely at ease, rising and saying, "Go to the Long Life Palace now, otherwise, your Imperial Father will be displeased."
"Alright." Jiang Wuhua responded gently, "I’ll go call Ning."
...
...
Today’s Long Life Palace is covered with frost and snow, all is white.
It inexplicably gave Jiang Wang the feeling that Jiang Wuqi was standing right in front of him, dressed in a white fox fur.
Everyone present was in mourning attire, appearing sad, but who knows how many were truly sorrowful!
The Imperial Court Adviser Wen Yanyu, along with officials from the Ministry of Rites, had taken charge of the outer parts of the Long Life Palace, setting all rituals.
Two Ministry Councillors stood at the entrance of the Long Life Palace, responsible for receiving and sending off guests.
Even Wen Yanyu himself was standing to one side.
Of course, those who came to pay respects at the Long Life Palace at this time were either wealthy or noble, and few were qualified to converse with Wen Yanyu.
He was hosting the entire funeral.
Those who could prompt him, as the respected Imperial Court Adviser, to stand welcoming at the palace gates were naturally few, such as the Son of Heaven and the Queen.
As soon as Jiang Wang appeared, a Ministry Councillor stepped forward, addressing him as Mr. Jiang.
Observers were surprised when Wen Yanyu, who had been silent for quite a while outside the palace gates, also nodded to Jiang Wang, showing friendliness, "Have you come?"
Jiang Wang had meant to brazenly greet Wen Yanyu, regardless of whether he would respond.
Previously Qi Country sent someone to the Wu Yadu Mountains to seek his presence, and Wen Yanyu was among them, though it was under the Emperor Qi’s orders, Jiang Wang felt obligated.
Unexpectedly, Wen Yanyu spoke first.
He quickly approached, showing the courtesy of a junior, "I should have visited the True Man’s residence earlier; however, things have been entangled. Grateful to meet here today, I hope the True Man would bear with it."
"It’s no matter." Wen Yanyu said softly, "You can come to my Orchid Heart Garden for a visit when you have time, let me engage more with young people and understand their thoughts."
"Certainly." This was not the place for chit-chat, Jiang Wang bowed politely and said sensibly, "Please, take care of your affairs; I will head inside first."
Wen Tinglan once invited him to Wen Yanyu’s private Orchid Heart Garden for tea and socializing, though he had not been there yet. Wen Yanyu’s personal invitation this time truly showed much respect.
Yet Jiang Wang knew very well, even though today he held some standing, it amounted to little before figures like Wen Yanyu.
Wen Yanyu’s friendly gesture was more out of respect for Yan Fu.
Showing favor to Yan Fu’s close friend means amplifying Yan Fu’s presence.
The Dog Steward, this father-in-law, is indeed quite admirable!
After bidding farewell to Wen Yanyu, Jiang Wang proceeded into the palace.
This time the route differed from previous visits; the rear halls of the Long Life Palace were not open for this funeral.
Palace Guards guided him along the way, soon leading him past a screen wall to an open space.
The ceremony was set here. ƒree𝑤ebnσvel.com
There were fifteen seats in total; only nobles could sit.
Jiang Wang continued to walk forward.
