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Shen Ning silently lowered her head, staring at the rice in her bowl, unable to discern her emotions at the moment and somewhat puzzled by Ji Yucang’s thoughts.
During her time in Nan Dynasty, it seemed she was born to protect others, with people depending on her and looking up to her for her status and power.
Before stepping onto the battlefield, she held the title of Princess, and after engaging in warfare, she wielded military power.
She had never imagined that one day she would be protected by others.
Regardless of Ji Yucang’s reasons for treating her so well, until she had avenged her great grievances, she couldn’t clearly respond to this sentiment.
Shen Ning tactfully changed the topic, “Does the Emperor’s selection of concubines not require your approval?”
“The selection of concubines is a harem matter, decided by the Empress Dowager.” Ji Yucang replied, “I have no interest in meddling in his harem affairs.”
Frowning, Shen Ning asked, “What if he chooses to bring all the daughters of important court officials into the palace?”
“He wouldn’t dare.” Ji Yucang’s tone was understated but carried an undeniable air of authority, “He would consider his imperial image and be cautious, as there are certain women he cannot touch.”
“Such as Miss Yan, the Left Prime Minister Yan Qingchen’s sister?” Shen Ning couldn’t resist asking, “The Prime Ministers are quite young, is their rapid rise in the court too swift?”
“They didn’t enter through the imperial examinations but were recommended by the Imperial Academy Supervisor for their outstanding talent and exceptional abilities.” Ji Yucang explained.
Shen Ning stared at him intently.
“They have been my study companions since childhood, learning from the teachings of the Imperial Tutor, excelling in knowledge beyond the ordinary.” Ji Yucang continued, adding, “They also accompanied me to the battlefield when they grew up, underwent training for a period of time, and can be considered my retainers.”
So that’s how it is.
It seems that the Prime Ministers are truly the Regent’s trusted confidants, and they appear to be fiercely loyal.
Having been by Ji Yucang’s side since childhood, receiving teachings from the Imperial Tutor, excelling in knowledge, and likely being exposed to various political schemes in the palace, as well as undergoing military training—this qualifies them as talented individuals in both civil and military affairs.
If they can keep the court officials in line, the Emperor’s future ability to rule directly may indeed rest on the Regent’s whim. If the Emperor were to clash openly with the Regent, causing the Regent to refuse to relinquish power, even at sixteen, he would remain a puppet.
However, because of this, the Prime Ministers are bound to obstruct the interests of the Emperor’s faction. Wouldn’t the courtiers oppose this?
Ji Yucang seemed to sense her question, “Yan Qingchen, though young, is ruthless in his actions, cunning and skilled. He excels at delivering lethal strikes, those who opposed him in court have been crushed to dust.”
“As for Xie Tinglan, he excels in foreign relations, with precise control over international intelligence. Apart from the Ministry of Rites, he keeps his distance from other ministers, not one to engage closely.”
Shen Ning nodded slowly, pondering two words in her mind.
Retainers.
Ji Yucang was indeed a bold individual, boldly elevating his retainers to the positions of Prime Ministers. It was likely an unprecedented move, with no one preceding him in this manner.
No wonder there were rumors circulating, alleging that the Prime Ministers were the Regent’s favorites. With his unconventional style, dissatisfied individuals likely refrained from voicing their objections, resorting to spreading rumors instead.
Shen Ning also pondered whether he had ever considered what would happen if he were to meet a fatal end from poisoning. Would the fate of the empire be in the hands of the young Emperor or would it be left to other princes?
After all, the royal family of Yong Kingdom had many offspring.
The current Emperor was the legitimate son, but not the highest in birth order among the princes. There were two elder brothers above him and three younger brothers below. The eldest brother was nineteen, the youngest only nine, still under the care of the palace consorts.
When considering it, Princess Pingyao was actually the eldest offspring of the royal family, not a legitimate daughter, but after being titled Princess Pingyao, she held the highest status and power among the Princesses.
Did those two princes older than the Emperor also harbor ambitions for the throne?
As the words neared her lips, Shen Ning realized her curiosity was getting the better of her.
Given the sensitive nature of Ji Yucang’s plans and strategies, he might not be inclined to disclose everything to outsiders, especially if it involved delicate matters that could lead to accusations of treason.
Shen Ning nodded slowly, “After we finish eating, I will prepare the antidote. If there are no urgent matters in the next couple of days, please ensure no one disturbs me.”