Tinglan explained the matter of the reward, and Kangxi immediately smiled and said, "If the Empress Dowager likes children, when another child is born in the palace in the future, bring one over as a way to amuse the Empress Dowager."
Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang coaxed Hongxi in her arms, then glanced at Emperor Kangxi with displeasure, "Look at what you're saying. Who uses children to keep them entertained? I'm getting old after all. It's fine for me to see children occasionally, but if I really had one under my wing, I'm afraid it would drive me crazy."
Yinreng was amused and laughed heartily, "Grandma is afraid of making a fuss, yet she likes Hongxi so much. Is it because he's too young now, and can't run, jump, or talk yet?"
Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang glared at Yinreng, "This child, talking nonsense."
That's what they said, but none of the people present thought the old lady was angry.
At the dinner table, Tinglan took Hongxi into her arms and smiled as she watched the little guy look around curiously.
"Hongxi looked very curious; he'll probably be running all over the palace when he's older."
Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang smiled upon hearing this, "This child is well-behaved, and I truly like him."
After the meal, the elderly were completely satisfied, and the children were happy to keep them company.
Only after returning to the main courtyard of Yuqing Palace did Tinglan hand the child over to the wet nurse to soothe him to sleep, while she herself served Yinreng as he changed his clothes.
"Master is in a good mood today."
Yinreng nodded and briefly recounted what had happened in the Qianqing Palace.
Tinglan listened to Yinreng say these things with a serious expression on her face, but she was secretly overjoyed.
She had been in the palace for several years, but Yinreng had always been lukewarm towards her. Only recently had he started calling her by her name, and now he was even willing to talk to her about things from the previous dynasty.
They seem more like a married couple now.
"I believe that Father Emperor trusts you, but given the friendship between Wei Dongting and Father Emperor, we still have to put on a show, otherwise we would alienate our ministers."
Yinreng nodded approvingly and pulled Tinglan to sit down on the edge of the bed.
“If this matter hadn’t involved the fourth brother, I would never have treated Wei Dongting this way. It’s just a pity that they’re so desperate to benefit their own descendants that they’re clinging to the fourth brother. It’s truly hateful. If I don’t stand up for the fourth brother this time, who will follow me in the future?”
Seeing that Yinreng seemed a little angry, Tinglan hurriedly poured him tea. "Your Highness, please don't be angry. Everyone can see this clearly. Besides, no matter what, my father and Prime Minister Suo will always be your most loyal supporters."
When Suo'etu was mentioned, Yinreng's expression softened considerably.
Uncle always puts him first. If he hadn't been unable to handle this matter in Rehe this time, he probably wouldn't have needed to take action.
After a night of intimacy, Yinreng, Suo'etu, and Shi Wenbing spent the next few days busy with matters concerning the Wei family.
To silence the ministers, we need to produce solid evidence.
Therefore, at the grand court assembly on the fifteenth, Suo'etu's followers listed a series of crimes committed by the Wei family.
This includes Wei Dongting himself accepting over 100,000 taels of silver in bribes from officials at various levels; his eldest son being a gambling addict who once lost over 10,000 taels of silver and still owes the gambling den 50,000 taels of silver. His daughter and son-in-law were local tyrants who preyed on the people, and even local officials had to avoid them.
Finally, seeing that the atmosphere had been built up enough, Suo'etu stepped forward.
"Your Majesty, when I examined Wei Dongting's body with the coroner, we discovered that he had suffered a serious injury while riding a horse with his grandson a few days before his death. We even summoned the imperial physicians to treat him. The physicians said at the time that the injury affected his chest and abdomen and that it might be difficult to cure. They also advised his family to prepare for his funeral as soon as possible. Unexpectedly, he passed away on the day Prince Yong came to collect a debt. In order to gain Your Majesty's sympathy and leave a way for their descendants, Wei's family framed Prince Yong for this incident."
After speaking, Algishan also brought up the two imperial physicians who had initially treated Wei Dongting.
"Your Majesty, during my thorough investigation of this matter, I discovered that the Wei family had already begun preparing for the old master's funeral after learning that his condition was likely incurable. Before Prince Yong went to collect the debt, the mansion had already purchased the old master's funeral clothes and other items. I have brought the owner of that shop here. If any of you ministers wish to offer your opinions, I will let him in."
Seeing this, everyone knew that Suo'etu and the others had obtained solid evidence to punish Wei Dongting. If anyone else were to object at this point, it would be useless.
Even Mingzhu, who was standing behind Prince Zhi, didn't move, and everyone else lowered their heads and remained silent.
Seeing everyone's reaction, Kangxi was very satisfied with Suo'etu's ability to handle affairs.
Yinreng and Yinzhen exchanged a glance, indicating that he could rest assured.
Sure enough, after reading the memorial, Kangxi was so angry that he slammed his fist on the table.
"By imperial decree, Wei Dongting shall be buried according to his rank, all his descendants who enter officialdom shall be dismissed from their posts, and shall be barred from taking the imperial examinations for three generations."
After the court session ended, Suo'etu shuffled up to Yinreng with small, square steps, and said, seeking credit, "Your Highness, I did a good job, didn't I?"
Seeing his grinning face, Yinreng couldn't help but laugh out loud, "Uncle's move is indeed extraordinary."
Yinzhen, who was standing to the side, also cupped his hands in thanks to Suo'etu, saying, "This time, we are very grateful for Prime Minister Suo'etu's help."
Soetu quickly returned the greeting, exclaiming, "Your Highness Yong is too kind to this humble servant!"
Yinreng patted Suo'etu on the shoulder, "It is good that Uncle handles things in a methodical way, but he should not be arrogant because of his status. This time, the Wei Dongting incident also shows how much Father Emperor hates corruption. He can even deal with his childhood companions with ruthless methods. If it were someone else, they would probably be exiled and their property confiscated."
This chapter is not finished, please click the next page to continue reading!
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com