Chapter 68: Ignorant Fools

Ji Jin’s grip on the armrest loosened and tightened, gradually turning his head to speak, “Uncle, a woman’s reputation is crucial. Some matters should be left in the past. Each mention only inflicts further harm on the woman’s honor. I hope you can understand this.”

Ji Yucang coldly stated, “A woman’s damaged reputation indeed brings significant harm. If such an incident were to occur with a more fragile woman, following the shameful actions of the Qin family in breaking off the engagement, the woman would have no choice but a dead end.”

The Duke of the State stood in silence, feeling unsettled by the Regent’s intimations, yet also convinced he had done no wrong. The stringent expectations regarding a woman’s reputation were not his sole decision to make. He knew Shen Ning was innocent, but he had to consider the interests of the entire family.

“After the incident, everyone is discussing Shen Ning’s innocence being lost, yet no one has accused the brutal bandits. Shen Yunlin, as the Duke of the State, and the father of the victim, have you considered seeking justice for your daughter?” Ji Yucang’s gaze fell on the Duke of the State’s face.

The Duke was speechless.

While Shen Ning’s attack had caused a stir, her family had not reported it to the authorities. Hence, the officials did not conduct a thorough investigation. Additionally, with interference from certain parties, public discourse mainly focused on Shen Ning’s innocence, rather than questioning the perpetrators or their punishments.

Before Shen Ning married the Regent, he had aimed to keep family matters discreet, intending to quietly have Shen Ning wed Qin Yanshu as a concubine. After she married the Regent, he sought to quell external criticisms swiftly. While he hadn’t openly reported the incident to the authorities, he had discreetly sent people to investigate. However, no concrete information had been uncovered thus far.

The Regent unexpectedly brought this matter to the court session.

“The woman I married is resilient, unafraid of societal criticism and doesn’t punish herself for others’ faults. However, this doesn’t mean this incident hasn’t hurt her.” Ji Yucang coldly surveyed the hall. “The world upholds male dominance and strict standards on a woman’s chastity. While I currently have no intention of changing your perceptions, all those present in court have studied the teachings of sages. Have the sages taught you to bully the weak and blame women for the crimes of those who break the law?”

“Your Highness.” Yan Qingchen stepped forward, bowing respectfully, “I believe in individual responsibility. The violence committed by those bandits are due to their extreme criminality and brutality, disregarding the laws of Yong Kingdom. I propose swiftly capturing and bringing them to justice, imposing severe penalties to uphold the people’s faith in justice and grant women their due respect.”

Pausing briefly, he continued, “However, the stringent regulations imposed on women have been very severe. If a woman’s reputation is tarnished, even if it’s not her fault, there will be widespread discussions externally. I believe this aspect cannot be completely eradicated for now. If we truly aim to prevent this, we must resort to an iron-fisted approach for suppression and consider easing the restrictions on women within the teachings.”

Although it was understood that suppression was only a temporary fix and might not be very effective, loosening the constraints posed challenges as well. Implementing such changes abruptly was difficult, especially considering the power of public opinion.

However, the explicit decrees from the court could have some impact.

Moreover, the true torment didn’t arise solely from external rumors but from the peculiar gazes and attitudes of family members. By relaxing some restrictions, influential men would at least be deterred from openly coercing women into sacrificing their honor.

“In the past, women faced humiliation and, to demonstrate fortitude and bring honor to their families, many chose to die as a form of apology. But I fail to see where the fault lies with women.” Xie Tinglan stepped forward, speaking firmly. “I believe that if noble families disregard rules and engage in illicit activities, disregarding etiquette and morality, then severe punishment is justified. However, excessive blame, even leading to a pathological ‘virtuous woman’ standard, is detrimental. This will only deepen society’s harsh demands on women, forbidding them from any mistakes, even in their conduct. Yet, who among us is without fault?”

The Uncle Qin coldly remarked, “Are you suggesting, Mr. Xie, that the requirements set by ancient sages are wrong?”

Xie Tinglan countered, “The ancient sages may not be wrong. However, over the centuries, due to foolish individuals chasing after so-called family honor, they have continuously compressed the living space of women. This attitude doesn’t align with the teachings of the sages but rather uses their words as a weapon to ruthlessly oppress innocent and vulnerable women. Under this suppression, they become increasingly helpless and submissive, a result we should not ignore.”

Yan Qingchen nodded, “The Right Prime Minister is correct. This aligns with my thoughts as well.”

Ji Yucang remained silent, sitting on the throne with a cold and distant expression, his countenance revealing no joy or anger.

“Uncle.” Ji Jin furrowed his brows, “Women were originally meant for reproduction, their existence is solely for the purpose of bearing offspring—”

“Nonsense!” A cold voice cut in. Princess Pingyao, in a red dress, swiftly strode into the hall, her features stern and icy. “As the Emperor, you have always viewed women as mere tools for reproduction? Is this the absurd ignorance of a ruler? I feel sorrow for the royal family to have a descendant like you!”

Ji Jin’s face turned ashen with anger, “This is the court hall, not the Princess’s residence. Who allowed you to enter without permission?”

“I was ordered to bring Qin Yanshu for questioning.” Princess Pingyao raised her hand, followed by several Imperial Army soldiers escorting Qin Yanshu forward.

Qin Yanshu, still pale from illness, appeared visibly worn out.

The Uncle Qin’s face darkened, “Princess Pingyao, you have no right to speak here!”

Princess Pingyao stared directly at Ji Jin, “Men are esteemed, women are humble, all because of you despicable and shameless men who repeatedly oppress us!”

“Women are only for bearing offspring? In that case, dare the Emperor issue a decree allowing women to participate in examinations, lead troops in the military, and openly show their abilities? You dare not, for fear that women might outshine you, seize your power and status!”

“You go to great lengths to oppress women, yet condescendingly belittle their status. You are a group of shallow and ignorant fools! I should make you taste what it’s like to be trampled underfoot!”