Chapter 165 Before the Earthquake! Prepare for a Rainy Day
"So, this matter has not yet been reported to the emperor? How is this possible?" Wen Ziduan's hair stood on end when he heard this.
He Zhaojun said solemnly, "The Imperial Observatory considered that this might not come true, and since it was close to the Queen's birthday, they didn't report it. I also felt that it was best to suppress this matter for now. If it were made public, it would probably cause unnecessary panic."
Wen Ziduan hesitated, "But if I keep it a secret, and it really happens, won't I be caught off guard?"
"So we must secretly prepare in advance. If nothing happens, that would be the best, but if something does happen, we will be able to turn the tide and control the situation." He Zhaojun said this with certainty, but Wen Ziduan never gave up the idea of explaining it to Emperor Wen.
He Zhaojun gritted her teeth and said, "Your Majesty ordering me to Shouchun at this time is truly a coincidence. The Shouchun mine has widespread implications. I suspect someone is taking advantage of this opportunity to disrupt the court. The enemy is covert, while we are in the open. The fewer people who know, the better."
"Furthermore, think about it. Besides the ordinary people who make their living mining, Shouchun is completely dominated by powerful figures who are eyeing the Shouchun mines. They exploit the people at every level, seeking personal gain, and they hold important positions, making them difficult to shake. If you were Your Majesty, what would you do if you knew about the earthquake?"
Wen Ziduan gasped, "Of course, they're using this earthquake to make sure these people never return."
"Yes, so, do you still need to inform His Majesty?" He Zhaojun frowned and asked Wen Ziduan.
The other party fell silent, obviously convinced by her. He was the prince and knew the current Emperor Wen best.
He Zhaojun sighed and continued her analysis, "As soon as the earthquake struck, there would undoubtedly be people in the capital hoarding goods, buying up large quantities of rice, grain, and medicine, driving up prices, or even taking advantage of the situation to loot and commit crimes. You should know what to do."
Wen Ziduan hesitated for a long time, the words asking her not to go to Shouchun stuck in his throat, unable to be spoken. He knew He Zhaojun's character very well, and he couldn't stop her.
"Then take my personal guards with you to protect your safety." Wen Ziduan felt that he had made a major concession.
He Zhaojun shook her head. "They are even more needed in the capital. They are familiar with every street and alley, and can respond quickly if something serious happens. This time, I will lead the He family's troops, and with the troops sent by His Majesty, you don't have to worry too much."
Wen Ziduan held He Zhaojun in his arms and said, "Don't worry. Even if it costs me my life, I will protect the capital and the women and children in your family, and the women and children in every family in the capital..."
He Zhaojun wiped away her tears. This was not the time to be sentimental. She picked up the bamboo slips and said, "I'm leaving the palace now, which will easily attract attention. I've already sent out my capable people this morning, and they haven't returned yet. Please help me give all of this to my fifth brother, He Jiang. He'll know what to do."
Wen Ziduan, however, held on to He Zhaojun, unwilling to let go. He Zhaojun repeatedly pushed him away, saying, "Hurry up! This earthquake is a serious matter. If anyone blames the Queen for this, you must help resolve the situation."
"...Okay. But you have to set a deadline. If you don't come back by the deadline, I will go find you in person." Wen Ziduan did what he said, and the two agreed to meet in half a month.
If He Zhaojun didn't return to the capital half a month after the earthquake, Wen Ziduan would probably have people turn Shouchun upside down.
He Zhaojun stood up and said, "Third Prince, His Majesty will go to Changqiu Palace with General Ling today to discuss the Queen's birthday banquet. If it's inconvenient for you two to meet in private, Changqiu Palace is a good opportunity."
"Okay, I'll go and inform Zisheng, you can rest assured." Wen Ziduan's face was heavy. He hid the silk in his sleeve and stood up.
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