The Emperor's gaze was distant as he looked out the door. He seemed lost in thought, then followed with a sigh.
"It is true. When one becomes a parent, one is willing to endure and sacrifice anything for one's children."
Xie Suzhi lifted his robes and knelt. The Emperor was startled. "Minister Xie, what is the meaning of this?"
Xie Suzhi lowered his head, his voice cool yet firm and powerful.
"My second younger brother is unwell, and my sister-in-law has made a mistake. As the eldest brother, I am willing to accept her punishment. Please, Your Majesty, pass your sentence upon me."
The civil and military officials erupted into noisy discussion, a babble of differing opinions—
"Prime Minister, this is not your fault. Why must you do this?"
"Sigh, for something like this to happen in your family... it must be hard on you."
"But this witchcraft involves one of our dynasty's generals. An explanation must be given."
Listening from the side, Imperial Secretary Qi frowned slightly.
