Chapter 980: Peace

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Having been Emperor for over 40 years and now at the age of 64, Emperor Xuan had weathered countless storms throughout his reign. He had witnessed all sorts of rumors and scandals.

If the rumor had gained traction, it meant that there was some truth behind it. While spreading rumors about the Primus might not be too scandalous, spreading rumors about the Tian Family’s Elder Miss would be a great humiliation for them.

However, the fact that even the Crown Prince was aware of the rumor indicated that it had likely spread throughout the city. The Tian Family’s reputation would be greatly tarnished if the rumor persisted.

Emperor Xuan found the whole situation intriguing. After all, he had appointed the Primus of the new cohort, and he knew that the Primus remained loyal to his wife. His decision had been correct.

Emperor Xuan understood that not everyone could resist the influence of the Tian Family. It was not surprising that they had severed ties with the Primus and arranged a new marriage for him. The Tian Family might have been unfortunate, but they couldn’t blame the Primus for their own misfortune.

While he believed that the Tian Family had brought this upon themselves, Emperor Xuan acknowledged their status and prestige. The Elder Miss of the Tian Family was the niece of the Imperial Concubine and often paid visits to the palace. He had interacted with her before and recognized her intelligence. She displayed a touch of arrogance, but such demeanor was expected from a noble lady in the capital.

He quite liked that young woman.

Yet, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of sadness for her.

Emperor Xuan decided against pressing for the truth, as doing so would only bring humiliation upon the Tian Family. Instead, he spoke out against the rumor. “This is preposterous! How dare they spread such false information? It is unfair to both the Primus and the Tian Family!”

“Qin Sheng, present a jade ornament to Mr. Primus and a golden hairpin to the Tian Family’s young lady,” he commanded, wanting to show his support and respect for them.

“Yes, Your Majesty!” Qin Sheng promptly acknowledged the order and instructed his men to bring the requested rewards.

Shao Yunduan and Officer Tian stepped forward and kowtowed, expressing their deep gratitude.

Emperor Xuan smiled warmly and directed the couple to drink a cup of wine in front of him.

“This is all my fault, and your families have been affected as well. Drink this cup of wine in my presence, and let us forget about this incident. We are all officials serving the court, and it is crucial that we foster harmony and work together for the greater good!”

“Yes, Your Majesty! I will always keep your words in mind, and I will never disappoint you!” Shao Yunduan vowed sincerely.

“Your teachings shall be engraved in my heart, Your Majesty,” Officer Tian added respectfully.

With their wine glasses in hand, the two exchanged a meaningful glance, clinked their glasses together, and downed the wine in one swift gulp.

Shao Yunduan understood that he would not be leaving the capital. Instead, he would be joining Hanlin Academy.

Officer Tian also grasped the situation; for the time being, he would refrain from causing trouble for Shao Yunduan and treat him amicably on the surface.

Both of them, grateful for the Emperor’s leniency, were left with no room to voice any objections. The consolation bestowed upon Shanshan by Emperor Xuan further ensured that no one would dare challenge the situation.

However, Shanshan’s prospects for finding a good suitor in the next couple of years were dim.

All because of Shao Yunduan!

Officer Tian was in no rush; he would make Shao Yunduan pay for his actions. Keeping him within the capital would allow for easier monitoring and manipulation. Shao Yunduan had become an eyesore, but Officer Tian was determined to make him regret his deeds.

No one would escape unscathed after humiliating the Tian Family!