SCT-Novel Chapter 383 Court of Secrets (I)
Chapter 383 Court of Secrets (I)
A week later, His Majesty summoned all the ministers for an urgent meeting at the royal court, halting all official work and causing a stir throughout the palace. Speculation ran rampant as ministers wondered what could have prompted such a sudden assembly.
Before departing for the royal court, Yang Ning gazed at Zheng Liang with concern etched across her face. "Are you certain you have all the evidence?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry. "What if that man confronts you once again, attempting to shift all blame onto you?"
Yang Ning knew Yang Luoyang better than anyone—a monster who wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice his own daughter in his pursuit of power and wealth.
Zheng Liang met Yang Ning's anxious gaze with a loving look, gently caressing her hair. "Don't worry," he reassured her. "This time, I won't let that man escape. I'm not just protecting the Empire now; I'm safeguarding you and our baby as well."
He paused, choosing his words carefully. "As long as that man lives and remains in the palace, I can't be at peace with him near you. Even though he's your father—" Zheng Liang stopped, knowing how much Yang Ning despised any connection to that man.
Despite belonging to the Yang Clan by birth, Yang Ning was worlds apart from her father in character and values.
Zheng Liang sighed, shaking his head. "You don't need to worry about anything. Stay in the chamber and rest well. When I return this evening, I'll bring good news. Focus on taking care of yourself and our little one." As he spoke, his hand gently caressed her abdomen.
Though Yang Ning was in the early stages of pregnancy, not yet showing any visible signs, Zheng Liang felt a profound connection to their growing child.
Yang Ning placed her hand over his, a soft smile gracing her lips. "The baby and I will be waiting for your return," she said, her voice warm with affection. "Go now, and may fortune favor you in this endeavor."
" I hope everything unfolds according to your plan this time, with no unexpected complications."
A dissenting voice spoke up, "I disagree. Even though Minister Yang is related to the Princess, His Highness has never shown him any favoritism. If anything, he's always been particularly stern with him."
"I concur," added another. "From what I've observed, the Princess doesn't seem to have a good relationship with Minister Yang either. She hardly acknowledges him as her father. It's entirely possible this meeting concerns Minister Yang."
As the ministers continued their hushed debates, Minister Yang entered the main hall. Before anyone could approach him with questions, the guards announced the arrival of His Majesty and the Crown Prince.
The ministers quickly formed two rows, bowing to greet His Majesty and the Crown Prince before being allowed to take their seats. Prince Zheng Xiang also entered, but today he was present not as a prince, but as the Finance Inspector. He took his place among the other ministers.
Emperor Zheng Huang surveyed the sea of curious faces before him, all waiting with bated breath for him to speak. He offered a small smile before beginning, "I'm certain you all must be wondering why I've called for this important meeting. Today, we gather not to discuss policy related to the Empire's affairs or political matters, but to address the code of conduct expected of palace ministers."
A wave of murmurs swept through the assembly as ministers puzzled over His Majesty's words. What could have prompted such a discussion, and why the urgency?
Zheng Huang's expression darkened as he continued, "Ministers who hold high positions, who have been rewarded generously and live lives of respected aristocrats, have but one primary responsibility—to remain loyal to the throne and the people of the Empire. However, it seems some ministers have forgotten their vows and strayed from the code of conduct befitting an official serving the Empire."
His eyes, now somber, swept over the apprehensive faces before him. Taking a deep breath, he announced, "I have not called this meeting today. The Crown Prince has requested this assembly to discuss an important matter with all of you. From this point forward, he will take charge of the proceedings." He turned to Zheng Liang, who sat on the throne one step below and nodded. Discover more stories at empire
Understanding the signal, Zheng Liang rose to his feet, ready to lead the meeting. The sudden shift in command sent a ripple of tension through the gathered ministers. They held their breath, anxiety mounting as they wondered what grave matter could have compelled both His Majesty and the Crown Prince to convene such an extraordinary assembly.
As Zheng Liang stood before them, his posture straight and his gaze unwavering, the ministers braced themselves for revelations that threatened to shake the very foundations of the royal court.