In this bustling capital city, as night falls and the city lights come on, the streets and alleys are filled with a lively atmosphere. But beneath the seemingly calm surface, undercurrents surge and dangers lurk everywhere. Prince Ning, as the emperor's son, has a burning desire for power. Having been reborn, he is bolder than ever before and acts more aggressively.
In this life, Prince Ning set his sights on the court officials early on. He knew that to ascend to the supreme throne, he had to weaken his father's power, and winning over the officials was a crucial step. To this end, Prince Ning meticulously planned each action. He carefully selected opportune moments to host lavish banquets and gatherings, sending out invitations to summon the officials one after another.
On these occasions, Prince Ning always wore magnificent attire and dazzling jewels, exuding nobility and majesty with every gesture. He was eloquent, his words brimming with wisdom and charm, attempting to win the favor of his ministers. He lavishly bestowed precious gifts and made alluring promises, leading the ministers, tempted by the promise of profit, to mistakenly believe that following him would pave the way to wealth and glory.
Through these means, Prince Ning successfully established connections with some ministers. He cleverly used these relationships to secretly gather intelligence, attempting to find incriminating evidence against his father so that he could deliver a fatal blow at a crucial moment, overthrow his father's rule, and realize his own ambitions.
A few days ago, an unprecedentedly grand banquet was held in the capital. Under the night sky, the banquet hall was brilliantly lit, the dazzling lights illuminating the entire venue as if it were daytime. Melodious music flowed through the air, and guests in their finest attire moved about, their laughter and chatter filling the air, creating a lively and extraordinary scene. Prince Ning naturally wouldn't miss this excellent opportunity, and the Prime Minister and Minister Zhao of the Ministry of Personnel were also among the invitees.
At the banquet, the exquisite decorations and sumptuous food showcased its extravagance. Prince Ning's eyes slyly scanned the crowd for his targets. When his gaze settled on the Prime Minister and Minister Zhao, a subtle, meaningful smile crept onto his lips. He carried a golden cup brimming with fine wine and strode confidently and steadily toward them.
"Prime Minister, Minister Zhao, it is truly an honor for me to gather here today," Prince Ning said with a smile, his voice carrying just the right amount of warmth and enthusiasm, making it hard to resist. However, a sharp glint would occasionally flash in his eyes, making it difficult to discern his true intentions.
The Prime Minister had long been wary of Prince Ning's intentions; he knew the prince was ambitious, but on the surface he maintained a polite and distant smile, though his eyes betrayed a barely perceptible wariness. He bowed slightly and said, "Your Highness Prince Ning is too kind."
Minister Zhao appeared hesitant and uneasy. He knew that Prince Ning's approach was by no means benevolent, but he dared not easily offend this prince. He forced a smile, his eyes revealing complex emotions, and said, "It is my honor to attend the banquet hosted by His Highness Prince Ning."
Prince Ning, however, paid no attention to their reactions and continued to proceed according to his plan. His words, seemingly casual, contained subtle hints, attempting to influence their stance.
"I have some thoughts on the situation in the court recently. I wonder what the two gentlemen think?" Prince Ning asked casually, but his eyes revealed an invisible sense of oppression that sent chills down one's spine.
The Prime Minister's heart tightened, and he instantly understood the implied meaning in Prince Ning's words. However, he decided to remain silent and observe the development of the situation without showing any emotion. His eyes flickered slightly, but then he regained his composure and said calmly, "Matters of the court are to be decided by His Majesty. We dare not speak presumptuously."
Minister Zhao seemed somewhat at a loss, his eyes revealing obvious unease, and fine beads of sweat appeared on his forehead. He stammered, "This humble official...this humble official is of limited talent and learning, and truly...I really dare not make any rash comments."
Their subtle interaction caught the attention of some ministers present, who began to whisper among themselves.
"Is Prince Ning trying to win over the Prime Minister and Minister Zhao? This is no small matter!" a minister said softly, his eyes filled with worry and doubt.
"It seems Prince Ning has grand ambitions; the court is about to undergo a major upheaval!" another minister chimed in, his face showing anxiety, and his grip on his wine cup tightening unconsciously.
After the banquet, the Prime Minister returned home with a heavy heart. He sat in his study, his face grave and his brow furrowed. A somber atmosphere filled the room, making him feel somewhat oppressed.
"Prince Ning's actions are likely aimed at the throne!" the Prime Minister said to his wife with deep concern. His eyes revealed his worry about the situation, and the scroll in his hands was unconsciously crumpled.
"Then, my lord, what should we do?" the Prime Minister's wife asked with a worried expression, her eyes filled with unease. She walked to the Prime Minister's side and gently massaged his shoulders, trying to relieve his stress.
The Prime Minister pondered for a moment, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "We must remain vigilant and not be easily swayed by Prince Ning. The situation is still unclear; we must wait for the right opportunity and find a solution." His eyes were resolute, and he was already planning his next move.
Meanwhile, Minister Zhao was restless at home, pacing back and forth in his room. He was filled with regret, lamenting why he had attended that banquet in the first place, and now he was caught in this dilemma.
"I was so foolish to attend this banquet. Now I'm afraid I won't be able to get away," Minister Zhao muttered to himself, his face full of regret. He stopped and looked out the window at the night, his heart filled with anxiety and unease.
However, Prince Ning's actions did not cease despite the ministers' vigilance. Relying on his memories from his previous life, he secretly collected a great deal of confidential information about the court. In his study, Prince Ning sat at his desk, his face grim. The desk was covered with various documents, which he carefully perused, a smug smile on his face.
"With these, let's see how Father can stop me from ascending the throne," he muttered to himself, his eyes revealing a ruthless and resolute glint. His fingers tapped lightly on the table, as if playing a victory symphony.
In the Prime Minister's residence, after learning of Prince Ning's various actions, Lin Qian felt a deep sense of unease. She paced back and forth in her room, pondering a solution.
"This Prince Ning will stop at nothing for power," Lin Qian thought to herself.
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