Chapter 130: The Undercurrent in the Imperial Study (2/2)
Pei Wuchen’s explanation was watertight and flawless. Firstly, he expressed that he had just obtained the information before explaining his late reaction to report the Phoenix King Valley’s intentions to the old emperor. After making all these excuses, he managed to shake off all the dirty water on himself.
The old emperor’s expression didn’t change in the slightest. He knew his third son had a skillful mouth and all his words were calculated. The Emperor’s inquiry was simply a way for him to beat some sense into Pei Wuchen. He wanted to see if Pei Wuchen was siding with the nation or the Phoenix King Valley. Furthermore, the Emperor wanted Pei Wuchen to know that no matter how much glory Pei Wuchen had, the Emperor was the person holding all the authority in the Cloud Water Nation.
“Do you have any good plans?” The old emperor sat straight and narrowed his eyes a little, seemingly waiting for his prey to jump into the trap.
Cold sweat was about to roll down Pei Wuchen’s back as this matter involved the Phoenix King Valley’s interests and also the Cloud Water Nation’s interests. Furthermore, his current situation as the bridge between the two factions was a strenuous and unrewarding task. If he didn’t handle it properly, both sides would turn on him.
Pei Wuchen had no choice but to force out a smile before replying to the old emperor. “In response to Emperor Father, in this son’s humble opinion, the capital city is filled with crooks. The Phoenix King Valley won’t be the only ones heading out to the Falling Cloud Mountain Range. Why not use the excuse of this son wanting to provide assistance to the Phoenix King Valley to bring all my brothers to the Falling Cloud Mountain Range?”
When this Emperor heard the reply, he knew that his third son was clear on his stance. He laughed heartily and said, “Hahaha, it will be for the best. I am not wrong... Chen’er understands my intention. Since that is the case, we will do as you say.”
Pei Wuchen sighed in relief. He finally passed the Emperor’s test and what he had to do next was to convince Feng Wan’er and the old hall master.
“Emperor Father, this son can’t travel due to my injured legs. However, I still wish to look at the Green Flame Eagle. Can this son head over in a carriage? I’ll travel on the main path and the rest of the brothers will follow the Phoenix King Valley.” The one who spoke was Pei Qingfeng. He was worried that he couldn’t follow Bai Luochu into the Falling Cloud Mountain Range but a single decision from the old emperor settled all his worries.
The Emperor loved this son who had superior foresight and ability to take care of the country. Had it not for his body being crippled, the Emperor wouldn’t allow Pei Qingfeng to just be an idle prince. He immediately agreed to Pei Qingfeng’s request.
“This son thanks Emperor Father for his approval.”
When the old emperor saw that the matter was settled, he didn’t keep them in the study. He dismissed everyone back to their own residences.
Everyone quickly sought permission to leave and was afraid they would accidentally infuriate this old dragon. Only Pei Wuchen hoped that he would be able to stay for a longer time. His mind was flooded with different explanations when he dealt with Feng Wan’er. In fact, he hated the fact that time was moving so quickly.