Wei Lin was listening to rumors that she had instigated Xi Linxuan to lead the expedition to govern during the prince’s minority. Some even suggested she had ambitions to usurp the throne like Empress Wu Zetian. Wei Lin simply laughed them off but was more concerned about Wang Ling’s thoughts; if he thought similarly, her future path would become even more difficult.
She had not yet figured out how to probe his mind when, one day after court, Wang Ling sought an audience. Wei Lin was resting while tracing a calligraphy model.
“What brings you, Wang Qing?” she asked, putting down her brush.
“Your Majesty has returned to heaven, yet the empress does not seem grief-stricken,” Wang Ling remarked.
Wei Lin responded with a bitter smile: “I have no time to grieve. I am now the Empress Dowager, so please address me correctly. Are you here to reproach me?”
“No, I have been thinking about the question you once asked. Since you inquired, your subject must provide an answer,” Wang Ling said.
Wei Lin was confused, unable to recall what question she had posed. It was probably about court matters.
“It seems I asked a question that Wang Qing found difficult to answer,” she smiled.
“It appears the Empress Dowager has forgotten. If you agree to one thing today, I am willing to support you and the young emperor,” he offered.
Wei Lin raised an eyebrow: “What matter?”
“I want to divorce my wife.”
These words nearly made Wei Lin lose her balance, leaving her at a loss for words.
“Has Li shi violated the seven grounds for divorce?” she asked, bewildered.
“No, Li shi has been virtuous and proper. The reason lies with me.”
I do not want to burden Li Shi. Please do not ask further and just grant me permission,” Wang Ling refused to elaborate.
Wei Lin felt a headache coming on. Normally, this would be Wang Ling’s personal matter, but Li Weiheng was somewhat special. She was betrothed by the Empress Dowager of the Huo State, and an unmotivated divorce might displease Xi Zhaoting. With court politics being difficult, she did not want friction between two capable ministers to create an opportunity for others.
“Let me ask Li…”
“Empress Dowager, this is my personal matter. Even if you do not grant permission, I will proceed,” Wang Ling said.
