The ministers looked at one another, and a few civil officials were about to kneel to plead for mercy when the Emperor's stern voice rang out, "Anyone who dares plead for Yuan Hui today will join him for a stint in the prison."
At these words, those who had intended to kneel swiftly stood back up—the prison was no place to be, and one might enter with their life but not necessarily leave with it.
The news of Abbot Yuan Hui's incarceration spread like wildfire throughout Capital City.
Inside the Second Prince's Mansion, a worried guard spoke from behind, "What if the Abbot implicates the Second Prince, what then?"
"He won't. Even under severe torture, he would never confess to involving me, as he still awaits my rescue," Pei Chengye replied with confident composure, hands clasped behind his back.
"The Prince's insight is admirable," the servant said respectfully.
"Go and keep a close watch, no mistakes can be afforded."
"As you command!"
