Zhong Nian, the mastermind behind the alliance and instigator of rebellion, was initially sentenced to immediate execution. But just as Zheng Xingchuan prepared to issue the order, Shi Ying raised her hand: "Wait!"
"Your Majesty, Zhong Nian's deceit and defamation warrant more than a simple execution. He publicly maligned the Emperor and me, even slandering his deceased sister. Such a heinous criminal deserves a harsher punishment," Shi Ying said sternly.
Zheng Xingchuan asked, "What do you suggest, Your Highness?"
Shi Ying stared at the kneeling Zhong Nian, saying coldly, "His tongue is quite eloquent. Let's hook it and drag him through the city three times with a horse... Then hang him from the pillar in the market square until he dies in the sun, as a warning."
Everyone shuddered at her words.
"...to set an example."
A minister protested, "Your Highness, isn't that too cruel? The new Emperor should show mercy, or it might harm his reputation among the people."
Shi Ying replied coolly, "Are you suggesting Zhong Nian doesn't deserve such punishment? He deceived the Emperor, defied royal authority, and plotted rebellion. Even a thousand cuts wouldn't be enough. Look back at history; has there ever been someone as lawless as Zhong Nian?"
"The Analects say, 'Love and respect your parents, teach the people virtue, and lead by example.' If we don't punish severely, future generations will become reckless. Do you want a chaotic world where subjects disrespect their rulers?"
The ministers were silenced but still opposed such cruelty. Ultimately, Cheng Fengyi intervened: "Zhong Nian deserves death, but the innocent citizens of the capital shouldn't suffer. I suggest starting with cutting out his tongue, then executing him days later. Announce his crimes publicly to warn the people."
Many agreed, preferring not to see bloody executions.
Cui Yi approved: "Princess's suggestion aligns with mine. Minister Zheng, proceed."
"As Your Majesty wishes, I will follow," Shi Ying conceded, sitting back down.
Cui Yi looked conflicted, wanting to say something but hesitated. Cheng Fengyi subtly shook her head, signaling restraint.
Zheng Xingchuan then sentenced Cui Xiang. Though he was a prince and Zhong Lüping's death was accidental, his involvement in the conspiracy warranted punishment. Cui Yi decided his fate.
Cui Yi sighed, looking at his trembling brother. They grew up together, and considering his mother's wishes, he should show leniency. But Shi Ying had advocated for strict punishment of Zhong Nian, and denying her might cause resentment.
"Strip Prince Jing of his title, remove him from the royal register, confiscate his property, and exile him forever from the capital."
Cui Xiang cried bitterly, begging for mercy: "Please, Your Majesty, spare me! I repent! I swear by my mother's name, if I ever rebel again, let heaven strike me down!"
Cui Yi turned away, ordering the guards to drag him away.
Zhong Yuanshan remained kneeling. Cui Yi sighed, "Marquis..."
"I failed as a father, awaiting Your Majesty's judgment," Zhong Yuanshan bowed.
"You are my uncle, and punishing you would dishonor my late mother and Lüping. But I must set an example."
Zhong Yuanshan accepted calmly: "Your Majesty's kindness is deeply appreciated." Drawing his sword, he attempted suicide, shocking everyone. Guards rushed to stop him, but not before he inflicted a deep wound on his shoulder, blood spurting out, frightening many women outside.
Cui Yi ordered, "Quickly summon the imperial physician!"
Cheng Fengyi stepped forward, tearing open Zhong Yuanshan's clothes and pressing a cloth to the wound.
Cui Yi, reassured by Cheng Fengyi's expertise, relaxed. Zheng Xingchuan announced, "This trial is adjourned," and requested the Emperor and Empress withdraw.
Standing by the pond, Shi Ying watched the dying lotuses. Despite midsummer, most had withered.
"Why stand here alone?" Cui Yi joined her.
"Just admiring the flowers," Shi Ying smiled faintly.
Observing her expression, Cui Yi saw no signs of displeasure. Still, he worried about her sudden change in demeanor, especially her unusually harsh suggestion.
"Are you angry with me?" he asked hesitantly.
Shi Ying leaned against the railing: "Did you disagree with my proposal to punish Zhong Nian heavily?"
"No, I understand your intentions. But Minister Fang had a point. Harsh punishments might frighten officials and commoners, leading to worse outcomes," Cui Yi explained.
Shi Ying remained silent, staring at the water.
Cui Yi sighed: "But seeing you propose such a severe punishment surprised me. It's unlike you."
Shi Ying smiled: "Is it wrong that I'm no longer weak and merciful? Would you prefer I stayed soft-hearted?"
Cui Yi chuckled: "No, I feared your kindness would harm you. But today's display shocked me."
Shi Ying whispered, "Some things need to be said. Speaking openly might be better."
Realizing her intent, Cui Yi understood—rumors spread about him being controlled by Shi Ying. By opposing her publicly, it dispelled such notions.
"Did you know?" Cui Yi asked softly.
Shi Ying looked puzzled: "Know what?"
Cui Yi sighed: "Never mind."
Cheng Ying felt increasingly confused, "What exactly are you referring to? I just don't want people to say that you listen to everything I say. Of course, I want to give you a chance to prove yourself in public."
Cui Yi couldn't laugh nor cry, feeling both moved and heartbroken. He couldn't help but pull her into his embrace, saying with emotion, "You have sacrificed so much for me, yet there is so little I can do for you."
"There's no such thing," Cheng Ying raised her head, stroking his face, smiling, "I've already gotten everything I wanted."
But then she couldn't help but feel somewhat melancholic, "It's a pity about Lu Ping..."
Cui Yi also expressed his regret, "Everyone has their own destiny. Lu Ping is already dead. No matter how sad or upset we are, it won't change anything. Fortunately, she didn't die unjustly. We can discuss how to posthumously honor her with my second uncle after he recovers from his injuries."
Cheng Ying silently nodded, closed her eyes, and sighed deeply.
This intelligent, graceful, and dignified woman ultimately failed to fulfill her dream of marrying a general. Perhaps it was fate that she wasn't destined for such fortune. If heaven were merciful, she hoped that in the next life, she could achieve her dreams without being embroiled in so much helplessness.