The heavy rain made many people worried. Emperor Youning had mixed feelings about the report in his hand. He wanted to know who was behind Xiao Changqing's instructions, as his estimate was even more accurate than that of the Imperial Astrologer.
Xiao Changqing dared to gamble his life, and Emperor Youning would not believe it if no one gave him the confidence. Emperor Youning could not help but be wary of such a person who could predict the future, so he went to visit Xiao Changqing in person early in the morning.
"The rain in Dengzhou has helped the people meet their urgent needs, and Wulang has made an indelible contribution." Emperor Youning was sitting in front of the bed. Xiao Changqing had injured his knee and was bedridden.
"It is thanks to the blessing of your Majesty. I was just desperate to seek medical help and read some books. I dare not take credit for it." Xiao Changqing was extremely humble.
Emperor Youning would not believe the so-called accumulation of negative energy in the harem that led to the severe drought in Dengzhou, so he would definitely think that he had the guidance of an expert. This is also an important reason why Xiao Huayong did not allow Shen Xihe to stand out. By taking him into account, a balance was achieved. There was a person behind him who could calculate all the secrets of heaven, and Shen Xihe had troops from the northwest behind him.
Now His Majesty is not only afraid of Shen Xihe. If both of these things happened to Shen Xihe alone, His Majesty would not care about his face at all, and would not tolerate Shen Xihe even if it meant he would be cursed.
"Although there was a precedent when His Majesty Taizong was alive, it is the only one in history, and severe droughts are not uncommon." Emperor Youning spoke slowly, "You are so brave. You dare to gamble your life without any basis."
"Your Majesty, since there is a precedent, how can there be no basis for it?" Xiao Changqing bowed his head and replied meekly, "I was also thinking about the disaster in Dengzhou, and I was too hasty. Someone has to mention this matter. Amnesty for the harem is unusual. If I don't guarantee it with my life, how will it end if everyone rushes to follow suit?"
Emperor Youning raised his eyes suddenly, staring at Xiao Changqing fiercely: "Have you ever thought about how you would end up if Wei Yu didn't?"
With his eyelashes drooping slightly, hiding all the emotions in his eyes, Xiao Changqing revealed his slightly pale lips: "I only know that if there is no rain in Dengzhou again, the people will suffer, Your Majesty will have a hard time, and the court officials will shirk their responsibilities. If this continues, the country will surely be in chaos.
As a prince, I receive a salary and enjoy a fief. I should share your Majesty's worries and plead for the people.
The drought has lasted for half a year. The whole country, including your Majesty and the people, has tried every possible means to resolve it, but it is still unresolved. I don't know if this method is feasible, but I am willing to sacrifice my humble body to protect the righteousness of the world."
Xiao Changqing spoke passionately, showing his deep love for the people and loyalty to the emperor, as if he did not understand Emperor Youning's temptation and intention.
From then on, Emperor Youning knew that his son would not tell him a word of what he wanted to know.
Emperor Youning did not show any displeasure, but instead patted Xiao Changqing on the shoulder with satisfaction and admiration: "It is a blessing for a father to have such a son; it is a blessing for the country to have such a minister.
You have made great contributions to Dengzhou. You are now a prince, so I have no more rewards to offer you. Zhaoyi has been with me for decades. Although she has made serious mistakes, she has been punished. Considering her son's merits, I will restore her to the position of imperial concubine, release her from house arrest, and let her remain in the lordship of Hanzhang Palace."
Xiao Changqing's teeth were in a state of panic when he heard this, but his face was filled with joy. He struggled to stand up and thank the emperor: "I thank your majesty on behalf of my mother."
Release Concubine Rong to restrain Shen Xihe and at the same time trip Xiao Changqing, and let everyone see the reward that His Majesty gives to Xiao Changqing. However, this reward is something that Xiao Changqing has to accept even if he doesn't want it!