“This is all mere speculation on your part!”

“But my husband was once falsely accused.”

“The imperial court doesn’t take matters lightly. The Sun family isn’t so reckless. Madam Shao, your lack of understanding is evident. Please, arrange for our escort to Lord Shao’s location. Once you witness the truth firsthand, you’ll understand.”

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“No!” Qiao Xuan’s displeasure was evident. “My husband requires rest, and I won’t allow anyone to disturb him. He’s already unwell, and your insistence only raises suspicions about your motives!”

“Are you intentionally disrupting his recovery?”

Lord Yang and Prefect Liu seethed with frustration.

“Where did you get that idea?”

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“Indeed, Madam Shao, that’s uncalled for.”

“Excellent!” Qiao Xuan breathed a sigh of relief. “Regardless, I won’t permit any disruptions to my husband’s recuperation. He’s briefed me on everything; just convey your message.”

Lord Yang and Prefect Liu exchanged baffled glances.

What was the point of explaining? It seemed futile.

They were confronted not by Shao Yunduan’s subordinates, who could defy the Emperor’s decree, but by Madam Shao herself, impervious to their influence.

As a woman, Qiao Xuan had previously been rattled by Little General Sun’s two assaults on the city, her focus solely on shielding her husband. What recourse did they have now?

Their confidence lay in meeting Lord Shao; they were certain of accomplishing their mission.

Yet, Madam Shao’s unwavering stance posed a significant hurdle. How to overcome it?

Following a futile negotiation, Qiao Xuan proposed adjourning the discussion until the afternoon, citing a need to tend to her son in the backyard.

Lord Yang and Magistrate Liu found themselves at an impasse, resigning to regroup later.

A gloomy air lingered…

Lord Yang handed Qiao Xuan the list of treasures bestowed upon Shao Yunduan by the Second Prince, urging her to present it to Lord Shao if possible.

Soon after, the rare treasures were dispatched to the government office’s backyard.

Qiao Xuan dispatched an aide to retrieve the gifts, yet she refused to accept them. “These gifts must hold immense value. I cannot bear the responsibility if they’re damaged or lost. Please, take them with you when you depart.”

Lord Yang’s patience wore thin. “Madam Shao, these gifts are from the Emperor to Lord Shao. As his subjects, Lord Shao owes us gratitude. He need only accept the gifts. There’s no reason for us to retrieve them!”

Qiao Xuan stood firm, her conviction unwavering. “I refuse to accept a reward undeservedly!”

Lord Yang’s countenance darkened as he turned on his heel and departed, Prefect Liu trailing behind.

Returning to the backyard, Qiao Xuan flung the list at Shao Yunduan, a contemptuous sneer on her lips. “The Second Prince’s generosity knows no bounds, it seems. He seeks to enlist your allegiance.”

Shao Yunduan glanced at the list before setting it aside with a smile. “Perhaps so, but the Sun Family won’t relinquish their power easily.”

Especially after the debacle with Sun Pu, their enmity was unmistakable.