Imperial Palace of Luoyang, Hall of Supreme Polarity.
Early morning sunlight streamed through the tall palace gates, casting dappled shadows on the gleaming golden brick floor. Wisps of smoke rose from incense burners, mingling with the solemn atmosphere. Civil and military officials lined up on both sides, holding their xiù tablets, silent and stern.
Upon the Dragon Throne sat Emperor Yang of Sui (Yang Guang), clad in the Dragon Robe with Twelve Symbols, wearing the Heaven-Connecting Crown. His face was hidden behind the twelve strands of white jade beads, his expression unreadable, but an invisible imperial pressure enveloped the entire hall.
He had just finished listening to several reports on the progress of the canal project and the gathering of various entertainers from all directions, and seemed somewhat listless.
Just then, from the ranks of civil officials, an elder in purple court attire, with a gaunt face but eyes carrying a hint of malice, stepped forward clutching his jade xiù tablet. It was Yǔwén Shù, the General of the Left Wing Guard and a powerful minister of the current court.
"Your Majesty, your subject has a memorial to present," Yǔwén Shù said, his voice not loud but carrying clearly throughout the hall.
Yang Guang raised his eyes slightly, the bead curtain swaying. "Speak."
"Recently, in the prefectures and counties around Jingji, there seems to be a growing trend of banditry," Yǔwén Shù stated in a calm tone, as if recounting a trivial matter. "Especially a band of brigands calling themselves 'A Gust of Wind' who dare to attack local gentry, rob them of their property, and incite refugees, disrupting local peace. If this continues, it may become a serious threat and damage the prestige of the Heavenly Dynasty."
His words did not mention specifically who was robbed, but the word "gentry" was enough. Who in the assembled court did not know that the influential local gentry had intricate connections with court officials?
Although Wang the Skinflayer's case was not explicitly mentioned, those in the know understood that behind him likely stood an official from Yǔwén Shù's faction. Losing money was a small matter; hitting a dog while ignoring its owner and losing face was a big one.
Yang Guang did not immediately respond. He merely tapped his fingers lightly on the armrest of the Dragon Throne, making a soft 'tok-tok' sound, as if weighing the matter. In the ranks, Yang Zhao (m), disguised as the "ailing" Crown Prince and standing at the front, lowered his eyelids, but his heart tensed. It's here! Someone finally can't sit still. This old fox, Yǔwén Shù, has a keen nose. His report, seemingly out of concern for the nation and its people, was actually a probe and a form of pressure, seeking to use the imperial court's power to legitimately suppress the "banditry" that had caused trouble for his subordinates. For a moment, the atmosphere in the hall became delicate. Many officials averted their gaze, their eyes focused on their noses and their noses on their hearts, unwilling to get involved. Some exchanged glances, calculating the risks and benefits. Yang Zhao could feel several gazes subtly sweeping over him. Was it because after his "recovery," he had begun to participate in court affairs, attracting the attention of some? Or... pure coincidence? His thoughts raced. He absolutely could not allow Yǔwén Shù to solidify the matter of "bandit suppression," nor could he let the imperial court send capable generals to seriously investigate 'A Gust of Wind.' Otherwise, with the court's might, his newly established mountain stronghold, even with his "Danger Sense," might not be able to hide its tracks. He had to keep the initiative for the investigation in his own hands! Just as Yang Guang seemed about to speak, possibly assigning the bandit suppression task to a general, Yang Zhao took a deep breath. A suitable blush of sickly color appeared on his face, accompanied by a few suppressed coughs. His steps slightly faltering, he stepped out and bowed. "Father Emperor, your son... your son has something to say." His voice lacked some strength, but carried an urgency to serve the country. Instantly, all eyes focused on the Crown Prince, who had been attracting much attention recently but was known for his "frailty." Yǔwén Shù's eye twitched slightly, and a fleeting, almost imperceptible cold glint flashed deep in his gaze as he looked at Yang Zhao. "What insights does Zhao'er have?" Yang Guang's voice came from behind the bead curtain, betraying no emotion. Yang Zhao steadied his breathing, trying to make his voice clearer. "Replying to Father Emperor, regarding the banditry mentioned by Lord Yǔwén, I have also paid attention recently when reviewing local reports. These brigands act secretly, appearing and disappearing like the wind, quite different from ordinary vagrants. I believe that rashly sending a large army to encircle and suppress them would be like punching cotton, difficult to exert force, and instead would exhaust the people and waste resources, disturbing the region." He paused and continued, "Although I am untalented, I am willing to share your worries, Father Emperor. I beg Your Majesty to grant me permission to investigate this case secretly. I can mobilize officials from the Eastern Palace, sort through intelligence from various sources, and clarify their base, numbers, and whether there are hidden motives behind them. Once the truth is ascertained, then a decision can be made, whether to suppress or pacify, so that our actions may be purposeful." His words were reasoned and logical, highlighting the peculiar nature of 'A Gust of Wind' to prevent the court from acting rashly, while also taking the initiative to investigate, appearing eager to take on responsibilities. Yǔwén Shù's brow furrowed almost imperceptibly. The Crown Prince volunteered? This was beyond his expectations. Could this Crown Prince, so sickly, possess such energy? Or was someone else guiding him from behind, wanting to use this opportunity to interfere in the defense of Jingji, or... perhaps to shield someone? He naturally wouldn't consider that the Crown Prince was the bandit leader himself. "The Crown Prince is concerned about state affairs, and this old minister is deeply impressed," Yǔwén Shù responded indifferently, but then changed the subject. "However, investigating banditry can be dangerous. Your Highness is of priceless value; should anything happen to you, this old minister and others would be unforgivable. It would be more prudent to let experienced officials from the Ministry of Justice or local authorities handle it." Yang Zhao sneered inwardly, but his face showed sincere earnestness. "Lord Yǔwén's concern is appreciated. Precisely because I reside in the deep palace, I