He originally thought that given Hong Yingrong's identity as the daughter of the late emperor's tutor and the wife of Xingyuan Marquis Xue Yonghuai, who also held the noble status of a first-rank imperial edict, she would definitely argue with him arrogantly.
However, to his surprise, the other party actually bowed respectfully to him.
This action made Fan Jie look a little helpless for a moment.
Despite his advanced age, he was still quick to react and responded with a swift and appropriate salute, showing all the proper etiquette.
But before he could look up, Hong Yingrong's voice sounded in his ears.
"Although I am enjoying my old age quietly in the Marquis's mansion and rarely pay attention to matters outside the mansion, I deeply agree with Censor Fan's advice."
"As the saying goes, no merit, no reward. Yesterday, the imperial edict arrived at the Marquis' Mansion, and the entire Xue family received the emperor's grace."
"The old marquis always hoped that his three sons would pass the imperial examinations and serve the court loyally."
She paused, her voice brimming with determination and responsibility. "However, as a woman of the inner chambers of the Marquisate, it is my duty, Hong, to protect the family business diligently built by previous generations of the Marquis of Xingyuan. I will never allow it to suffer disgrace in my hands."
Her tone grew increasingly serious. "Therefore, I also have a word of advice. As the eldest son of a marquisate, Xue Yuanchu should observe three years of mourning for his father. We might as well set this as a limit. If he can make meritorious contributions to the court during this period, the Xue family will undoubtedly accept the emperor's grace and continue to inherit the title of Marquis of Xingyuan without any downgrade."
Her voice revealed an unquestionable determination. "On the other hand, if Xue Yuanchu behaves improperly within three years, breaks the law, and brings disgrace upon the reputation of the Marquisate, then even if Your Majesty decides to strip Xingyuan Marquis of his title, I will have no complaints."
As soon as the words fell, there was silence in front of the throne.
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