Chapter 2245: It’s Hard to Say About the Su Family

Qiao Xuan smiled as she vented to Shao Yunduan.

She had faced Consort Su fearlessly, secure in Shao Yunduan’s support. Reflecting on the others serving under the Third Prince enduring the Su Family’s foolishness was truly disheartening.

She couldn’t speak for others, but she noticed Consort Fu’s silence in Consort Su’s presence–submissive and withdrawn.

As the daughter of a Prefect, she shouldn’t have been bullied by the daughter of a bandit. It was a sorrowful situation…

They continued their discussion until Anan finally woke up, searching eagerly for his parents outside the door. Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan exchanged smiles and rose to join him.

Back in Huaixi province, Shao Yunduan resumed his duties.

The following day, he promptly penned a letter and dispatched it to Zheng Sangge, instructing him to intensify patrols and defense, particularly for Jiangnan’s business travelers. Vigorous investigation was crucial; any suspicion must be closely monitored without leniency…

Simultaneously, he strategized with Jia Heming and others, directing an inventory of provisions, medicines, clothing, and monitoring weapon production. Leveraging Zhao Shu’s caravan, they had discreetly imported ample pig iron through alternative channels for weapon and tool crafting, yet much remained unused.

Shao Yunduan took these precautions to guard against the Third Prince.

The Third Prince might lack the courage for aggressive moves, but the Su family was another matter entirely.

Based on Qiao Xuan’s account, Consort Su was foolish and domineering, heavily indulged by the Third Prince. This indicated a significant reliance on the Su family and, consequently, their substantial authority.

Given how Consort Su had been “bullied” by Qiao Xuan, it was inevitable she would return home and complain about her grievances. With her bad temper likely mirrored by her family, a retaliatory surprise attack from the Su family couldn’t be ruled out.

After all, those who had been water bandits and ruled a region were not known for their temperance.

If the Su family decided to use force, even the Third Prince’s objections might not be effective.

Discussing the matter, Qiao Xuan was skeptical. “That’s unlikely, right? It’s the busiest time for spring plowing. The south is wealthy with fertile fields, and it’s also the season to care for the silkworms. The Third Prince wouldn’t start a war now.”

Despite the Third Prince’s mediocrity, he surely understood this basic principle.

“Who would initiate a war during spring plowing season? Can’t they see that the second and fourth princes haven’t clashed yet?” According to the scouts, the second prince was also vying for control during this critical time. Once the plowing concluded, he would undoubtedly continue north to vie with the fourth prince for supremacy. Neither would relent until one emerged victorious.

Shao Yunduan grinned. “The Third Prince won’t do it, but the Su Family might!”

Qiao Xuan was left speechless.

Shao Yunduan chuckled once more. “How about a wager?”

Qiao Xuan’s eyes widened. “What kind of bet?”

“I bet whether the Su family will initiate a conflict. If they do, I win. My dear…”

Qiao Xuan shot him a look. “I’m not betting with you!”

If she lost, she’d be at his mercy once again. She’d been through this before and vowed never to repeat it. Even if she won and he listened to her, it didn’t feel like a victory. Besides, he always did listen to her anyway!