Luo Zhan’s original personality was somewhat lacking in ambition, and if he were to become emperor, the country would not prosper and might even risk being conquered by other nations. However, he couldn’t reveal this reason to Yu Wenxin and insisted on not taking action against Luo Ye.
Yu Wenxin stepped back, “Then at least Your Highness could compete for succession, so you wouldn’t be vulnerable to harm without the ability to fight back.”
Meng Qing shook his head, “If Zhan shows any intention of competing for the throne, would my second brother treat him as he does now? I’m afraid Zhan would have been killed long ago.”
Yu Wenxin criticized his perceived weakness, “Your Highness is so timid, all for the sake of survival?”
Meng Qing quickly said, “Sir, please lower your voice. These discussions are for private conversation. If spies overhear…”
Yu Wenxin responded, “Your Highness is actually afraid to this extent?”
Meng Qing frowned, “Sir, that’s going too far. Who in this world doesn’t fear death? I invited Sir here for strategic advice, not to be criticized. If Sir thinks I’m not a worthy lord, then please seek opportunities elsewhere!”
Yu Wenxin was disappointed, shaking his head, “Since following Your Highness, I’ve been trusted and should have served loyally until death. But now… alas…”
He bowed deeply to Meng Qing, saying in a very low voice, “Your Highness, take care.” Then turned and left.
Meng Qing watched Yu Wenxin’s retreating figure, with only a fleeting look of emotion in his eyes. After Yu Wenxin had gone far, he told Xia Yue, “Find several capable guards to secretly protect Sir until he safely returns home.”
Yu Wenxin was wise and ambitious but had chosen the wrong master. He would likely retreat to his hometown. His sudden departure might still raise Luo Ye’s suspicions, so Meng Qing ordered Xia Yue to escort Yu Wenxin home.
Xia Yue shook his head, “This subordinate will find several capable guards to escort Sir home, but will absolutely not leave Your Highness’s side.”
Meng Qing let it go.
The news spread that the Third Prince was addicted to gambling, frequenting gambling houses. Many court officials were displeased, and Liu Taiwei even came to Luo Zhan’s residence to reprimand him. Meng Qing treated it as if it were nothing.
