After saying this, with the tacit consent of Emperor Yongkang, she walked away with lotus steps, holding the lost handkerchief in her hand.

At this time, Shui Rong asked, “Brother Emperor, are you here to pay your respects to the Imperial Concubine?”

He and Yuanchun were innocent, so there was no need to dwell on it too much. As the saying goes, those who are innocent are innocent themselves. It would be inappropriate to hide things. What’s more, there were guards and palace maids passing by the corridor. They would know what the situation was by just asking around. There was no need to explain.

As expected, seeing Shui Rong’s frankness, Emperor Yongkang’s expression improved a lot. In fact, if he thought about it carefully, if there was really something going on between Shui Rong and Yuanchun, it wouldn’t have happened in the corridor.

He didn’t really care about what happened between Shui Rong and the palace maid, but because Jia Yuanchun was born in the Rongguo Mansion, Emperor Yongkang thought too much about it. If it were someone else, Emperor Yongkang might even make a few sarcastic remarks.

Nodding slightly, Emperor Yongkang said, “It has been a while since I last paid my respects to the Imperial Grandmother. Little Sixteen, please go with me.”

The episode is over, and now it’s time to get down to business. Emperor Yongkang has not forgotten the purpose of this trip.

Shui Rong smiled bitterly upon hearing this, and said helplessly: “I just came out from the Royal Concubine’s place. I’m afraid the Royal Concubine is very angry. Since you want to go, please help me say a few good words.”

Let alone paying respects at this time, Shui Rong might not even be able to enter the palace gate. Since Emperor Yongkang wanted to pay respects anyway, let Emperor Yongkang ease the situation so that it wouldn’t be so embarrassing for everyone.

Emperor Yongkang frowned upon hearing this and asked, “Why did you make the Imperial Grandmother angry?”

Under the current circumstances, it was estimated that Shui Rong had rejected the marriage proposal with the Zhen family. It seemed that he was a little late, but Emperor Yongkang still asked knowingly, after all, he came here by chance.

Shui Rong didn’t think much about it and informed everyone of his refusal to marry into the Zhen family.

Emperor Yongkang frowned upon hearing this, and looked at Shui Rong with an unfriendly look. What a guy, he actually used the matter of the granted marriage to shut up the old concubine, which dragged him into the water as well.

However, Emperor Yongkang did not say much. Instead, he asked with some interest, “Little Sixteen, the Zhen family is not bad. Why do you look down on them and even reject the favor of the Imperial Grandmother for this?”

To be honest, Shui Rong’s move was too reckless, and Emperor Yongkang was very puzzled.

Shui Rong was silent after hearing this. What should he say? Could it be that he knew that the Zhen family had bad morals and would end up with their property being confiscated, so he didn’t want to get involved with the Yue family?

After a pause, Shui Rong said leisurely: “I don’t know why, I just don’t like him.”

The word “attractiveness” explains everything very well. Even if you are confused, you can’t find any reason to do so.

Emperor Yongkang didn’t say anything after hearing this. He groaned for a moment and then said, “Well, since I have agreed to grant you the marriage, when the beauties enter the palace next year, I will let you choose. You will always be able to find someone you like.”

There are thousands of people selected for the harem audition. After layers of screening, hundreds of outstanding ones are picked out. With such a scale, I believe that they can’t pick out the so-called people who catch their eye.

Shui Rong was delighted when he heard this. He could choose any beauty in the world from among them. How could he not be happy about such a good thing?

Shui Rong then bowed and thanked him, “Then I thank you, my Royal Brother. I will choose when the time comes. Please don’t feel bad, my Royal Brother.”

For some reason, Shui Rong felt a surge of excitement in his heart when thinking about the beauties selected for the emperor.

Emperor Yongkang could not help but be delighted when he heard this. He waved his hand and said proudly, “My words are golden, how can they be false? I will make the decision and let you choose a few more to serve you.”

Just a few beautiful girls, this is nothing to the emperor.

Shui Rong couldn’t help but smack his lips when he heard this. This evil feudal society is really…like it.

Emperor Yongkang saw Shui Rong’s useless appearance, and he didn’t want to expose him, so he didn’t say much, and invited him, “Little Sixteen, since you are here, accompany me to the Imperial Garden for a walk.”

Shui Rong was stunned when he heard this. Wasn’t Emperor Yongkang going to pay his respects to the old empress dowager? Why did he invite him to the Imperial Garden?

Emperor Yongkang understood what was happening, and rolled his eyes at Shui Rong, angrily scolding him, “You have offended the Imperial Grandmother with the matter of the marriage. If I go over here now, I will be looking for trouble, and I may end up being blamed.”

Shui Rong looked slightly embarrassed when he heard this. Don’t think that the emperor can do whatever he wants. After all, the old concubine is a grandmother, and even the emperor can only respect her. Instead of doing this, it is better to hide.

After all, it’s Shuiyo who has to take the blame.

Chapter 48 Wagtail Incense Beads

The royal garden has everything from exotic flowers and plants to pavilions, towers, and rugged rocks.

The sound of birds chirping came from the tall trees, which was very lively. The stream flowed between the rocks. There were cranes holding their heads high and singing loudly under the pine trees. The whole scene was like a dream, like a fairyland.

Shui Rong and Emperor Yongkang strolled along the stone-painted path, admiring the beautiful scenery of the Imperial Garden.

After a moment, Emperor Yongkang smiled and said, “Come to think of it, you haven’t been to the Imperial Garden for a few years. Do you feel any difference?”

Shui Rong grew up in the imperial palace, so he had seen the royal garden, but he had never been to the palace since his adoption.

Hearing Emperor Yongkang’s question, Shui Rong looked around and replied, “If anything, the Imperial Garden has become more lively. Even the cranes seem to be more energetic. It seems that the Ministry of Internal Affairs has taken good care of it.”

The Royal Garden is under the jurisdiction of the Imperial Household Department and is managed by its Fengchenyuan.

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongkang looked at the crane that was plucking its feathers, and seemed to remember something. He said with a smile, “I remember that when you were a child, you were very naughty and wanted to ride a crane. You were so reckless that you almost killed the crane. If it weren’t for your second brother protecting you, you would have been scolded by your father.”

“Second brother.” After hearing this, Shui Rong raised his brows and became nervous. He needed to know that their “second brother” was Prince Yi Zhong.

Speaking of Prince Yi Zhong, Shui Rong felt it was a pity. Prince Yi Zhong was originally a legitimate son. He was smart and studious since childhood. He was not only proficient in the classics of various schools of thought and poems from all dynasties, but also skilled in archery and horse riding. He was both civil and military.

The choice of who would inherit the throne was either the eldest son or the most capable one, and Prince Yoshitada possessed both, making him the first choice for the throne. However, he messed things up in the end, was despised by the retired emperor, and died of depression.

Although Shui Rong was young at the time and did not know much about the inside story, he was not completely ignorant. The reason why Prince Yizhong’s bad deeds were so taboo was because what he committed was rebellion.

Who with a brain would take the initiative to mention the son’s rebellion against his father? This would only bring bad luck to the emperor.

However, as Prince Yizhong was the first choice for the throne, as long as nothing unexpected happened, he would be sure to ascend the throne. Why did he choose to rebel?

After analyzing the situation at the time, Shui Rong felt that there was something fishy going on. He guessed that it was still a fight for the throne. Even though Prince Yi Zhong was at the peak of his power, he had not ascended the throne. Everything was possible. As long as Prince Yi Zhong was brought down, everyone would be on the same starting line again.

But having said that, even Shui Rong, who didn’t know the details, guessed that there was something fishy in it. How could the Supreme Emperor not be suspicious?Guessing that Prince Yi Zhong’s voice was too loud, the Emperor was afraid of him, so the Emperor took advantage of the situation to deal with Prince Yi Zhong.

If not, how could everything happen so suddenly? The popular Prince Yizhong was instantly labeled a rebel, which would confuse everyone.

This is the royal family. Under the temptation of the supreme throne, the so-called family affection seems ridiculous.

Of course, this is just Shui Rong’s guess. There is another possibility, that is, the emperor has been in power for too long, and Prince Yizhong, who is the first choice for the throne, can’t stand it anymore, and takes a risky move under the temptation of power.

The matter is a foregone conclusion. There is no point in thinking about it any further. Who cares about the truth?

Shui Rong was cautious at this time. Although Emperor Yongkang seemed to be chatting and reminiscing about the past, who knew what his intention was in mentioning Prince Yi Zhong.

Thinking of this, Shui Rong also said casually: “Brother Emperor, these are things that happened when I was young. I am about to forget them.”

At that time, I was old enough to wear open-crotch pants, so I was still young.

Emperor Yongkang smiled and shook his head, then sighed: “Well, come to think of it, we were happy brothers back then, but now, my third brother has been stripped of his title, and my fifth and ninth brothers have been confined in the clan residence.”

Shui Rong felt increasingly heavy-hearted as he listened to Emperor Yongkang recounting the fates of his brothers one by one.

Some of them were dealt with during the reign of the retired emperor, but some were stripped of their titles and imprisoned after Emperor Yongkang ascended the throne because they were dissatisfied and complained privately.

Is mentioning these things at this time a way of reminiscing about the past or a subtle criticism? I’m afraid it’s more of a criticism!

But Shui Rong has done his duty very well. Not only did he ignore the affairs of the court, but he also engaged in obscene business. What else can be done from him? Judging from the attitude of Emperor Yongkang in the past, he was quite satisfied with his duty. Why did he suddenly hit him today?

After thinking about it, the only variable seemed to be today’s dramatic meeting with Jia Yuanchun. After all, Jia Yuanchun was born in the Rongguo Duke’s palace and had something to do with the capital.

It should be noted that although the Palace of Prince Beijing has considerable influence in the army, the Beijing Camp is related to the security of the capital, so the Palace of Prince Beijing has no contact with the Beijing Camp. Suddenly coming into contact with the daughter of the Rongguo Mansion at this time inevitably makes people imagine, especially for the emperor who is alone and suspicious by nature.

The higher the position one holds, the more his every word and action will be suspected. This is also the reason why Shui Rong is unwilling to marry a nobleman. It is like walking on thin ice.

Shui Rong, who had figured it out, didn’t say much. He had never thought of having any connection with the Jia family, so there was nothing to worry about. He followed the Emperor Yongkang’s words and sighed, “Power has always been fascinating. My third brother and his friends are so confused!”

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongkang turned around and looked at Shui Rong, his eyes looking scrutinizing, as if going straight into people’s hearts, making people shudder.

After a long while, Emperor Yongkang said sadly: “You are right. Power can seduce people and cause brothers to quarrel. Now I only have my eighth brother and little sixteen by my side. I hope that we can be brothers and help me govern the country well.”

Shui Rong was stunned when he heard this. Pressure and enticement, isn’t this just beating someone with a stick and then giving them a sweet date?

Tsk tsk tsk. This Emperor Yongkang is really unpredictable. Fortunately, Shui Rong has been adopted at this time. Otherwise, according to the suspicion shown by Emperor Yongkang, his life would be difficult and he might even follow in the footsteps of his adoptive brothers.

It has to be said that no one knows a son better than his father. Although it seemed that the adoption of Shui Rong by the retired emperor lowered Shui Rong’s status, it actually greatly reduced the suspicion of Emperor Yongkang. It was a wise move to change the emperor’s fear into winning him over.

After thinking for a moment, Shui Rong said respectfully, “My brother is extremely capable and is able to help my brother. I am a humble servant and will not cause any trouble for my brother. However, if you need me, please let me know and I will do my best.”

Shui Rong understood the warning, but forgot about the seduction. He didn’t want to keep company with a tiger and preferred to be a leisurely prince. However, Shui Rong didn’t say anything definite and left some room for maneuver. This would be good for everyone.

Upon hearing this, Emperor Yongkang looked at Shui Rong. After a moment, he smiled and shook his head. He had succeeded in striking him in, but had failed to win him over. However, Emperor Yongkang did not intend to delve into the details.

After all, there are only a few of his brothers left, and there have been rumors in his early years that he is ungrateful and mean. If he doesn’t even let go of the adopted little Sixteen, wouldn’t that make people lose heart? How could the scholars be willing to risk their lives for him then?

Therefore, Emperor Yongkang really did not want Shui Rong to be blinded by power and commit unforgivable crimes. As for Shui Rong, Emperor Yongkang just gave him a warning in advance, that was all.

At the moment, it seems that Shui Rong is very law-abiding and he is overthinking it.

Seeing the small pavilion in front of him, Emperor Yongkang smiled and invited: “Let’s not talk about this anymore. There is a pavilion in front of us. Go there and have a rest.”

Upon hearing this, Shui Rong nodded slightly and followed Emperor Yongkang towards the pavilion.

After entering the pavilion, the two of them sat down separately, and the palace maids served them tea and fruits as appropriate.

Sitting on the stone bench, Emperor Yongkang took a sip of the fragrant tea to moisten his throat, then looked at Shui Rong and praised him, “I heard from my eighth brother that you took the initiative to pay the silver owed to the Ministry of Revenue. I am very pleased that you are sensible.”

Shui Rong paused holding the fragrant tea, and was in no hurry to moisten his throat. He said with a slightly aggrieved tone: “Brother Emperor, when I talk about this, I feel uncomfortable. I originally wanted to settle the account and put an end to it, but who knew that my cousin would still make trouble for me.”

Don’t think that Emperor Yongkang was simply praising him. His every word and action had a deep meaning. Shui Rong estimated that he must be thinking of asking Shui Rong for help, so Shui Rong tried to stop him from saying anything.

I have reached an agreement with King Zhongshun out of grievance, you can’t ask for anything more!

Emperor Yongkang naturally understood Shui Rong’s intention, chuckled, and scolded: “Eighth brother is devoted to state affairs, and asked you to help a little, but you are still making excuses. You are really too lazy.”

This guy Xiao Shiliu is really slippery, he is undoubtedly a profiteer.

Shui Rong sneered in his heart when he heard this. Taking money out of someone else’s pocket, is this just a simple favor? It must be because he owed money, otherwise Shui Rong would not bother to care.

However, now that he said this, Shui Rong had some thoughts in his mind. After thinking for a moment, he cupped his hands and said, “Brother Emperor, it stands to reason that repaying debts is a matter of course. Ministers who borrowed money from the treasury should return it in full. I’m just afraid that even if they have the intention to pay, they should pay it back.” , which cannot be repaid.”

Emperor Yongkang frowned upon hearing this. What did Little Sixteen mean by this? Was he trying to persuade him not to collect the money from the treasury?

However, Emperor Yongkang was not angry. He knew that Shui Rong had never cared about these matters in the court. He must have had some hidden meaning by mentioning it at this time. Otherwise, Shui Rong would not have taken the initiative to pay the silver owed to the Ministry of Revenue.

After a moment’s silence, Emperor Yongkang asked, “Then what do you think should be done?”

Shui Rong saw that Emperor Yongkang was not angry, so he did not care and said bluntly: “Brother, as far as I know, most of the people who owe money to the national treasury are the princes and nobles in the capital. They are used to a luxurious life, and their mansions have long become empty shells. Otherwise, they would not have to borrow money from the national treasury. Let’s not talk about other things. For example, my prince’s mansion is now running out of money. If it weren’t for my good business, I’m afraid I can’t even pay off the debt.”

Even a wealthy family like the Prince of Beijing’s Mansion is unable to make ends meet, and the other princely residences are probably even more unsustainable. They are clearly beginning to go downhill, and if they are urged to pay their debts at this time, their resistance will be even greater, prompting them to huddle together for warmth.

Emperor Yongkang raised his eyebrows when he heard this. What kind of business is this? It’s just a brothel.

But the point at this time is not this. Listening to Shui Rong’s words of crying poor, Emperor Yongkang said with an unpleasant expression: “The court has not treated them unfairly, why is it like this? I think they are just overindulging themselves and have no idea of ​​frugality. They deserve this.”

For the princes and nobles in the capital, in addition to their salaries, they would receive rewards every year, which was already extremely generous. But even so, the mansions were still unable to make ends meet. It was obvious that they were spending too much, and it was not others’ fault.

Shui Rong remained silent after hearing this. After all, what Emperor Yongkang said was right. If he knew how to be frugal, how could he spend more than he earned? However, this remark also implicated Shui Rong’s Prince Beijing’s Mansion, which made him feel weird!

After a moment’s silence, Shui Rong said slowly, “It is easy to go from frugality to luxury, but it is difficult to go from luxury to frugality. After living a good life, who would be willing to be frugal? If you do something wrong, others will say that your mansion is desolate and people will gossip about it. You can only endure it.”

Shui Rong was right in saying this. It was indeed difficult to be frugal when one was used to a good life. Moreover, once one was frugal, others would gossip about him. By then, not only would one’s livelihood be ruined, but also his reputation. Therefore, even if one’s income was not enough to cover one’s expenses, one would still hold on, even if it meant borrowing money to maintain the situation.

The ancients valued dignity, there was nothing you could do about it.

Emperor Yongkang obviously understood this logic, but he did not agree with it. This was not a reason for them to default on paying the national treasury.