He has endured countless hardships in the palace over the years to finally sit in the position of Grand Preceptor.
"What are your plans now?" I asked softly.
Li Cheng took a deep breath and slowly said, "The Emperor's health is not what it used to be, and the struggle for the throne is intensifying. This is my best opportunity."
"Fourth Prince's mother is Consort Xian. Only by getting close to the Fourth Prince can I have a chance to bring down the Shen Family."
"Consort Xian and the Shen Family's confidence lies in the Fourth Prince. As long as he is dealt with..."
"I can pull Consort Xian down from her position and completely destroy her influence in court."
"Only then can I clear my parents' names."
Listening to his calm analysis, I was shocked.
It turned out that his plan was so meticulous.
"But how will you get close to the Fourth Prince?" I asked softly.
Li Cheng replied quietly, "Right now, there are unclear positions in court. He needs someone of a certain status to stand behind him at the right moment. Once he has the support of someone in a high position, others will naturally consider him, and that person is me. The right moment will be at the banquet he is hosting in a few days."
"However..."
He looked at me, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes.
"However, this path is very dangerous, and I don't want you to be harmed in any way."
"I want to send you to Jiangnan for a while, and once things settle here, I'll bring you back."
I replied softly, "Li Cheng, we are already married."
"As husband and wife, we are one body; we must face life and death together."
"How could I let you take risks here alone? If I can't help you, then I'll stand behind you to support you."
Li Cheng looked at me, a touch of emotion flickering in his eyes.
"Alright."
"Then we shall face this together."
Although he already had a plan, he was still busy recently to avoid any unexpected situations, often leaving early and returning late. Soon, the day of the banquet arrived.
The Fourth Prince sat in the main seat, surrounded by numerous attendants and officials. Grand Preceptor Li Cheng approached the Fourth Prince with carefully prepared gifts.
"Your Highness, this is a small token of my appreciation. I hope you will accept it," he said. The Fourth Prince looked at the gifts presented by Li Cheng, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.
"Grand Preceptor, what are these?"
Li Cheng replied respectfully, "They are some medicinal herbs and books."
"Oh?" The Fourth Prince raised an eyebrow.
"These herbs were personally collected by my people from the southern border; they are extremely rare varieties."
"They possess high medicinal value and also have beauty-enhancing effects, making them rare treasures in the world."
"As for these books, they are unique editions from my collection over the years."
The Fourth Prince smiled and said, "Grand Preceptor, you truly have gone to great lengths."
"I dare not," Li Cheng replied respectfully. "As a minister, it is my duty to share your burdens."
"Grand Preceptor's intentions are well received," the Fourth Prince smiled.
I stood quietly to the side, watching this scene unfold. Li Cheng's plan had taken its first step, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy in my heart.
"Your Highness, although these gifts are precious, what do they amount to compared to your appreciation?"
"My admiration for you can be witnessed by heaven and earth."
"I am willing to serve you with all my efforts." The Fourth Prince nodded slightly, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes.
"Grand Preceptor, I understand your intentions."
"I also hope to have a Wise Minister like you to assist me."
"Thank you, Your Highness," Li Cheng said, cupping his hands in salute.
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