Until Deng Jieyu was sent to the Cold Palace, he couldn’t even see her once, and was even reprimanded by Emperor Xuanming and driven out of the palace, realizing then that the Deng family was finished.
He promptly apologized to the Emperor, but didn’t ntion resigning, only voluntarily confined himself at the residence, intending to first let Emperor Xuanming cool down. As ti passed, even if he couldn’t regain favor, he wouldn’t be disliked again. As long as he could keep his official position, the Deng family could still rise again.
Although he understood the situation clearly and made compromises, even abandoning Deng Jieyu, the sudden fall from paradise to hell was difficult for Grand Tutor Deng who was not a person with a stable mindset, and at the residence, he vented his anger daily, causing anxiety among the servants, which made the atmosphere of the Deng residence tense.
Moreover, those who usually interacted with the Deng family were quick to sever ties; if not for Grand Tutor Deng holding leverage over these noble families, they might have already started to kick him while he’s down.
Even if they’re not actively kicking him now, Grand Tutor Deng knows that it will beco harder for him in the official circle, and currently, no one is touching the Deng family’s business. However, within three days, it would surely be gradually devoured, and by then, even if he wishes to rise again, without silver, it would be re talk.
At that mont, the gatekeeper reported that Minister Qi ca visiting, dressed in common clothes, clearly on a private visit.
"Is it really Minister Qi? Not soone else?" Grand Tutor Deng found it hard to believe.
The gatekeeper timidly checked his fear and nodded: "Yes, it is Minister Qi. I have seen him, and he also presented an identity token."
"Go, bring him to the study." Grand Tutor Deng paced in place twice, squinted his eyes, and imdiately instructed.
Soon.
Minister Qi walked into the courtyard and upon seeing the open study, Grand Tutor Deng could see clearly now, dispelled all doubts, and imdiately went to welco him, smiling: "Great Minister Qi, how is it you find the ti to visit today? Truly an honor."
"Naturally, I have good news to discuss with Grand Tutor." Minister Qi stepped into the study.
Under Grand Tutor Deng’s enthusiastic reception, he sat on a stool.
Grand Tutor Deng ordered the servants to serve tea and then drove them away, sat nearby, fixed his stare on him, and spoke: "Great Minister Qi can speak directly, after all, the Deng family is no longer like the Qi family’s Grand Secretary Qi, whatever there is that can be done, Great Minister Qi, feel free to instruct."
Minister Qi looked at his ingratiating posture and laughed unrestrainedly.
Grand Tutor Deng felt a surge of anger but managed to recognize the situation, refrained from acting out, and continued to please him: "Great Minister Qi, no need for niceties, please speak directly."
"It’s very simple, have Deng Jieyu overturn the case for Lady Zhao Yi. As long as Lady Zhao Yi returns to the palace, the Deng family will naturally maintain its current status, just like your choice, Grand Tutor Deng." Minister Qi sipped so tea and explained his intentions without reservations.
Grand Tutor Deng listened and suddenly laughed: "Great Minister Qi, I’ve been in the official circle for so many years, how could I be completely clueless, I dare not believe your words, especially since my daughter cannot rise again, the Imperial Harem no longer has anyone from the Deng family. Even if you say this, Great Minister Qi, I still dare not believe it, and I hope you understand."
Minister Qi saw him obstinately resisting in the face of calamity and sneered: "Grand Tutor Deng, do you think that my visit today is for revenge?"
"If I intended revenge, your Deng family would have nothing left. If it’s such a choice you insist on making, then don’t bla for being ruthless."
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