Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Su Bin hastily clarified, âI wouldnât dare harbor any resentment towards the emperor.â
âMaking a living in this world is no simple taskâ¦
Su Bin reiterated to Governor Lin what he had previously conveyed to Governor Li.
Before Governor Linâs arrival, Su Bin had secured approval from the Empress
Dowager. Seizing the opportunity, he addressed Su Bin,
âThe Empress Dowager mentioned that if Governor Su encounters any difficulties, do not hesitate to bring them to her attention. She is committed to doing her utmost to address and resolve your concerns.â
Su Bin restated his earlier appeals.
Governor Lin, akin to Governor Li, diligently recorded all of Su Binâs requests in his notebook.
âI will convey Governor Suâs challenges to the Empress Dowager. Given her resourcefulness, these matters should pose no significant hurdles.â
âGovernor Su, anticipate positive developments!â
Governor Lin even affectionately patted Su Binâs shoulder.
âI find our conversations particularly congenial, Governor Su.ân/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
âThe fact that you, Governor Su, openly express your difficulties and requests in person signifies your astuteness.â
In a hushed tone, Governor Lin added, âIf you were to agree without seeking anything in return, it might raise suspicions with the Empress Dowager.â Su Bin was taken aback. âWhat would the Empress Dowager suspect?â
âShe might suspect that the Public House could dispatch individuals to approach you. Fearing for your own interests, you might agree to lend money to the Public House as well.â
Su Binâs countenance instantly soured.
âGovernor Lin, had you not brought this to my attention, I wouldnât have considered it.â
âIf the individuals from the Public House approach me in the future seeking to borrow money, what course of action should I take?â
âIf I consent to their request, I would betray the Imperial Court. If I refuse, they might retaliate and hinder my ability to assist the Empress Dowager.â
âIf the Public House cites the weakened state of the treasury under the guise of an Imperial Court matter to request a loan, it may be challenging for me to decline. Refusal might result in immediate charges of defying the decree.â Governor Lin chuckled as he observed Su Binâs expression. âFear not, Governor
âThe Empress Dowager has already contemplated this issue. If the Public House approaches you, feign agreement initially. When they request funds, employ various excuses to provide them with as little as possible.â
âFurthermore, use this opportunity to build their trust and report their activities to the Grand Empress Dowager. This is crucial!â
Su Bin simulated a sigh of relief. âI appreciate the guidance.â
As he spoke, he even wiped his forehead with his sleeve, despite the absence of any perspiration.
Before Governor Lin departed, he inquired of Su Bin, âDo you have any other requests? Perhaps a transfer back to the capital and a promotion of three levels?â
Su Bin shook his head. âNot necessary.â
âI believe that by remaining outside the capital, I can maintain a lower profile and evade suspicion from the Public House. I hold considerable favor with the Empress Dowager.â
Governor Lin smiled. âYou are quite astute!â
âRest assured. Once this task is completed, the Empress Dowager and the
Emperor will treat you well.â
Su Bin nodded earnestly. âThank you, Lord!â
Following Governor Linâs departure, Su Bin promptly sought out Qin
Zhenzhen.
In the backyard, Qin Zhenzhen cradled their son, playfully coaxing him. âCome on, Yuan Bao, be a good boy. Give Mother a smile.â
Their son, nearly three months old, was a bundle of energy, expressing himself loudly whether through cries or laughter. Thanks to Qin Zhenzhenâs careful care and the spirit water she had been feeding him, he looked significantly different from the previous month.
At this moment, the infant seemed to comprehend Qin Zhenzhenâs words, responding with a joyful smile.
Hearing Yuan Baoâs laughter in the distance, Su Bin quickened his pace, eager to join the familial scene..