Late-night talk in the study, discussing countermeasures
Emerging from the Prime Minister's residence, night had fallen. Shen Qingci walked slowly along the cobblestone path, the lavish lights of the residence far behind him, only the dappled shadows cast by the lanterns under the eaves. A cool evening breeze could not dispel the heaviness in his heart—Li Linfu's threat loomed large, and he knew all too well that this powerful minister was vindictive; his refusal today was destined to bring further difficulties and sabotage.
Before long, he arrived at the side gate of the Su residence. A warm yellow lantern was already lit inside the gate, and Su Yunqing was standing under the corridor waiting. When she saw him return, she hurriedly stepped forward: "Brother Qingci, did the trip to the Prime Minister's residence go smoothly?" Seeing Shen Qingci's gloomy expression and the worry hidden between his brows, she knew that things had not gone well.
Shen Qingci followed her into the study. After the servants served tea and left, she recounted her experiences at the Prime Minister's residence that day in detail. From Li Linfu's attempts to win her over with bribes, to her firm refusal, and finally to the powerful minister's angry threats, every sentence was clear and distinct.
Upon hearing this, Su Yunqing paused slightly, a hint of worry flashing in her eyes, but she quickly regained her composure. She put down the teacup, took Shen Qingci's hand, and gently comforted him, "Brother Qingci, you did the right thing. Attaching yourself to treacherous officials might bring temporary success, but it ultimately goes against your conscience. You have always had the world in your heart; how could you compromise for the sake of power?"
Her palm was warm and firm, instantly calming Shen Qingci's anxiety. He grasped her hand in return, his eyes deep and serious: "I am naturally not afraid to confront him, but I am worried that he might sabotage us in secret, which could not only affect the court, but also endanger you and both families."
"Don't worry," a glint of intelligence flashed in Su Yunqing's eyes, "Father still has a few upright old friends in the court who may be able to help you secretly. As for me, you don't need to worry about me; ordinary tricks can't harm me. But you, you must be more careful in your actions in the Hanlin Academy in the future. Li Linfu has many followers, so be careful in everything you do and don't let him find any fault with you."
Shen Qingci nodded, already having a plan in mind: "Tomorrow I will organize the draft edicts and annotations I have prepared in the past to ensure that the wording is flawless. In the future, I will avoid direct confrontation with Li Linfu in court unless absolutely necessary, and focus only on my duties. When the time is right, I will find a way to expose his crimes."
“Yes,” Su Yunqing nodded, then added, “Also, we need to be more discreet when we meet in private to avoid giving anyone something to gossip about. If there is any emergency, you can have a trusted servant deliver the message, but remember not to leave any written evidence.”
Inside the study, the candlelight flickered, illuminating the two figures sitting side by side. Shen Qingci looked at the woman beside him, composed and articulate, and his admiration grew even stronger—she was not only gentle and considerate, but also possessed the courage and wisdom to remain calm in the face of adversity. With her by his side, offering advice and unwavering support, even if the road ahead was fraught with uncertainty, he felt more confident and courageous.
“Yunqing,” Shen Qingci gazed into her eyes, his tone solemn, “no matter what dangers we encounter in the future, I will protect you and never back down.”
Su Yunqing looked back at him, her eyes full of trust and certainty: "Brother Qingci, I believe in you. No matter what the storm, I will face it with you."
In the candlelight, the two figures leaned close together, the aroma of tea in the study intertwining with their unwavering beliefs, transforming into a solid force to withstand future storms.
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