Chapter 8 The Greatest Crisis
The current dynasty is known as the Daye Dynasty. Its founding emperor, Chu Yin, came from the renowned Dingchuan military town. He made great achievements in the chaotic world and established his country as emperor.
After Chu Yin ascended the throne, he worked diligently and cared for the people. Unfortunately, fate is unpredictable. Eleven years ago, Chu Yin passed away and was posthumously honored as Emperor Wen. His second son succeeded him and became the current emperor, Chu Yang.
This emperor was clever and obedient from a young age, and was deeply loved by the late emperor and empress. It was for this reason that he replaced the original eldest son and was made crown prince. However, after he ascended the throne, he suddenly changed his tune. He not only indulged in wine and women and debauchery, but also became warlike, cruel and bloodthirsty, and everyone in the court was in danger.
The soldiers who came from the same Dingchuan military town as Chu Yin were promoted and ennobled for their military achievements at the beginning of the founding of the country. Now they all hold high positions and have become his thorns in the side.
The first to be affected was Duke Sheng, Yuwen Yuan.
Therefore, upon hearing this news, Madam Yu immediately became nervous: "Duke Sheng just quelled the rebellion in Longmen and made great contributions."
Shen Shiyan said, “That’s exactly what’s strange. Although the Emperor has long been suspicious of the Duke of Sheng, this time the Duke of Sheng did make a great contribution and should have been rewarded accordingly. But for some reason, not only was he not rewarded, but he also almost lost his life.”
"So what exactly did he do to make the Emperor so angry?"
"The Duke of Sheng's visit to Luoyang this time was for reporting on the Longmen battle and for discussing the marriage with our family... It couldn't be because of that, could it?"
Shang Ruyi was folding clothes to the side when she heard this and looked up at them.
Yu said, "It can't be that bad."
Shen Shiyan thought for a moment and then smiled and said, "I was overthinking it."
"And then what happened?"
"Fortunately, the people around me strongly dissuaded me, and with Dong Biqin and others speaking up for me, the matter was finally resolved."
Mrs. Yu breathed a sigh of relief: "That's good."
After saying that, she turned to look at Shang Ruyi and said worriedly, "The Duke of Sheng is now a thorn in the Emperor's side. If our Ruyi marries into that family, won't she—"
Shang Ruyi folded the last piece of clothing, looked up and smiled, saying, "Aunt, you don't need to worry about me. If anyone is worried, it's actually Uncle who I'm more worried about."
Shen Shiyan was somewhat surprised: "You're worried about me?"
Shang Ruyi said seriously, "Although the Duke of Sheng is distrusted by His Majesty, he still holds a large army and leads troops in the field for many years, so His Majesty still has reservations about him; but my uncle holds a position in the court, and every little thing is under the emperor's watchful eye."
"..."
"Now, because of me, my uncle has formed a marriage alliance with the Yuwen family. His Majesty is suspicious of the Duke of Sheng, and I'm afraid he will target my uncle."
"..."
"This is the biggest crisis my uncle is facing."
"...!"
Shen Shiyan looked at Shang Ruyi with some surprise.
Although his niece was exceptionally intelligent, she was also calm and reserved, rarely speaking her mind. This was the first time he had ever heard her speak so much, especially her analysis of the political situation.
Shen Shiyan said, "You—"
Madam Yu said anxiously, "That's really how it is. Master, what should we do?"
Shang Ruyi said, "In my opinion, since your uncle's health is not good, it would be better to find an opportunity to retire and return to his hometown, away from the court, a place of right and wrong and strife, so that he can live out his old age in peace."
Madam Yu immediately replied, "That's right. I've been advising him for a long time. Stop thinking about loyalty to the emperor and patriotism. Living a good life is the most important thing."
Shen Shiyan looked at Shang Ruyi in silence. Shang Ruyi seemed to notice her uncle's probing gaze and quickly lowered her head.
After a while, Shen Shiyan said, "Let me think about this matter some more."
"yes."
After tidying up her things, Shang Ruyi got up and left their room.
Shen Shiyan remained silent for a long time, then turned to look at his wife and asked, "Don't you think Ruyi has become a little strange after this illness?"
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