Chapter 10: The Reward

"I want the engagement ended, Majesty," said Shuyao.

She said it plainly, in front of two hundred courtiers.

The hall breathed in.

Behind the Consort's curtain, something clattered, a cup or a bracelet.

Wei, at the foot of the steps, did not move.

The Emperor looked down at her.

"I thought you might say so."

"Then Your Majesty is not surprised."

"I am surprised by very little at my age. Why?"

"Because I'm fourteen and I don't love him," said Shuyao. "And because this week someone in his household sent men to rob my father's house."

"Men who are now dead, or in custody, and a steward who has been given up," Wei said smoothly.

"Majesty, I have already asked pardon from the Tang house for this."

"You did."

"Then I ask it again, openly."

He knelt, there in the hall, on the white stone.

Shuyao saw the court soften.

A prince on his knees for a girl's insult. It was a very good move.

It was the same move he had used, in the first life, to make the whole city weep at their wedding.

"Rise, Third Prince," said the Emperor. "Nobody has accused you of robbery. Your steward was a thief, and I am glad you found him."

"Thank you, Majesty."

"As for the engagement."

The Emperor paused.

"I made a decree."

"A decree is the face of the throne."

"If I wipe it away for a young girl's temper, then tomorrow the throne has no face."

Shuyao bowed her head.

She had expected this.

She had asked anyway, because now every person in the hall had heard her ask.

"But I will tell you what I will do," the Emperor said. "Wei."

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