As Minister Qin spoke, many echoed his sentiments.
It was undeniable that despite being recommended by noble families, they possessed genuine talent. Known as the "God of Wealth of Great Wei," he managed the national treasury, making it more abundant with each passing day.
Even the Sage, upon meeting Minister Qin, would beam with joy as if encountering a deity.
Let alone other officials, their monthly stipends were disbursed by the Ministry of Revenue, a department with immense influence. One could offend anyone but the God of Wealth.
However, Yao Zhinian could not tolerate such words. What did he mean by "forced"? That Wang Ningqing was clearly a traitor, deserving of death.
Yao Zhinian, already in high spirits, felt as if he had grown wings since the Seventh Prince's return to the capital, eager to soar.
He exploded with indignation, charging forward as if ready for a brawl.
Minister Qin remained unfazed. Having a background in the military himself, he had previously managed provisions. His outstanding performance had led to his current esteemed position.
Therefore, as Yao Zhinian lunged, Minister Qin was already rolling up his sleeves. While he might not be confident in a fight against seasoned generals, he was more than capable of handling Yao Zhinian.
As Yao Zhinian reached Minister Qin, he instinctively glanced at the figure on the dragon throne. However, the Sage's expression was unreadable, offering no obstruction, yet seemingly no displeasure either.
Yao Zhinian was perplexed by the Sage's intentions. Should they fight this battle or not?
Ultimately, steeling his resolve, he decided to fight, but as a gentleman, he would use words, not fists.
They were all civilized individuals; what would become of the court if they resorted to brawling?
"Minister Qin, what evidence do you have for this statement? Who can prove that Wang Ningqing was forced? Many saw him in General Hu's tent, and General Hu confessed everything clearly, stating he acted on Wang Ningqing's orders. As for Prince Han kidnapping Wang Fan, that is even more absurd. Liancheng and the capital are not on the same route. Did Prince Han go to Liancheng to kidnap Wang Fan after leaving Hanzhong?"
"Would kidnapping require Prince Han to bring the entire Hanzhong army? Minister Yao, before making accusations, use your brain. This is the imperial court, not a place for baseless slander," Minister Qin said slowly.
He had never taken Yao Zhinian seriously. Even if the Seventh Prince were to be made Crown Prince, what did it have to do with the Yao family? The Seventh Prince had been personally raised by the Sage.
He wondered what Yao Zhinian was so proud of. Was it that the Seventh Prince, his uncle, paid him little attention?
After all, the Seventh Prince had not inquired about the fate of the Wang father and son, nor had he shown any interest.
What if they were not punished? It would not affect his position as Crown Prince, unless Empress Wang suddenly bore another son.
Yao Zhinian's incessant clamoring would only make the Seventh Prince deem him incompetent and further distance himself from the Yao family.
Although Minister Qin supported the noble families, he understood the Seventh Prince's psychology thoroughly. Xiao Che was indeed indifferent to this matter.
His task was to win battles and accumulate military merit; his objective had been achieved. The path to the Crown Prince was clear. As for the Wang family, this was a lingering issue. Based on his understanding of his father, the Emperor, he was sure the Emperor had it all figured out.
"Minister Qin, are you questioning the Ministry of Justice's case?" Geng Fangda asked.
Yao Zhinian regarded Geng Fangda with even greater admiration. His question was well-posed.
"Is my questioning not obvious enough? Minister Geng, the court is a place to debate right and wrong and seek truth. As a senior who has eaten more salt than you, I advise you to think thrice before slandering others; one wrong step can lead to self-inflicted harm," Minister Qin said, spreading his hands with the air of a seasoned veteran.
Geng Fangda was still too young and too eager. His question lacked any sophistication.