“This is preposterous! An imperial decree isn’t to be trifled with!” Lord Yang erupted in frustration.

Qiao Xuan blinked, her response measured. “Indeed, it’s a precarious situation. Consider the audacity of a Sun Family scion unjustly accusing our Lord of treason. One wonders what other audacities they may possess.”

Attempting to quell his rising ire, Lord Yang interjected, “It was a misunderstanding!”

Qiao Xuan’s skepticism remained evident. “I find that hard to believe.”

Lord Yang’s silence spoke volumes as Qiao Xuan continued, her tone shifting to one of concern. “General Sun’s arrogance knows no bounds. His threats loom over us like a dark cloud, each encounter escalating in tension. But fortune favors the just, as they say. We pray for divine intervention.”

With a gesture of prayer, Qiao Xuan appeared sincere, yet her words stung Lord Yang and Prefect Liu.

Lord Yang felt a retort rising, questioning the appropriateness of invoking both God and Buddhism simultaneously. Yet, he hesitated, unable to counter Qiao Xuan’s simple but effective rhetoric.

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Attempting to salvage the conversation, Lord Yang began, “Madam Shao, you misunderstand…”

But his words faltered, realizing the truth in Qiao Xuan’s seemingly innocuous remarks.

“General Sun’s actions were rash, driven by deception. The Emperor, in his wisdom, shall surely rectify this injustice,” Lord Yang asserted, though his conviction wavered.

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Qiao Xuan eyed Lord Yang skeptically. “Truly? And how, precisely, does the Emperor plan to clarify?”

Lord Yang’s confidence surged as he responded, “The Emperor holds Lord Shao in high regard. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have entrusted me with the decree! His Majesty intends for Lord Shao to ascend swiftly, appointing him as the right assistant minister of the Ministry of Revenue upon arrival in the capital. Additionally, he’ll receive a token granting him audience with the Emperor at will. The Sun Family’s interference will cease. The misunderstanding is resolved; let us move on.”

Qiao Xuan remained unconvinced, her suspicion evident. “But what if Minor General Sun and his kin are deceived once more? What if misunderstandings arise anew, prompting impulsive actions? My husband lacks the means to defend himself as he does here in Huaixi province! No, I cannot simply accept this reassurance.”

Lord Yang’s tone turned frosty. “With the Emperor’s decree, the Sun Family will comply. Your concerns are unwarranted, Madam Shao.”

Qiao Xuan’s retort was swift and sharp. “I beg to differ! Lord Yang, it’s easy for you to dismiss my worries. Were our positions reversed, I might say the same. But consider General Sun’s character. Can you guarantee his obedience to the imperial decree?”

There seemed to be no resolution in sight.

“Madam Shao, do you have any suggestions?” Lord Yang inquired, exasperated.

Qiao Xuan sighed, her gesture resigned. “None! I’m but a woman; how could I conjure up solutions?”

Lord Yang nearly choked on his own breath. “…”

Unable to contain his frustration, he lamented Qiao Xuan’s endless pestering, finding her demands unreasonable.

Prefect Liu, sensing the escalating tension, interjected, “Madam Shao, the Emperor is known for his eloquence. Do you doubt his words?”

Qiao Xuan’s brow furrowed slightly, indicating her genuine concern. “No, of course not. But should the Sun Family repeat their actions and claim innocence, will the Emperor uphold the law? Or might they employ surrogates to do their bidding? What recourse does my husband have if he’s falsely accused once more?”