The Noble Consort is the most favored in the harem

Chapter 115 - Exposing the Second House

The Imperial Physician wasn't foolish; he knew to steer clear of the hidden matters of such households.

The more he heard, the more he could risk losing his life at any moment.

When he saw Steward Lin come to escort him, he quickly slipped away.

With everyone else dismissed and the door closed, only three people remained inside: two seated and one standing.

Prime Minister Lin and Princess Rongkang were both seasoned in power and could easily exude an air of intimidation.

Yet Madam Dong showed no fear at all.

She handed over the wooden box containing the account books.

"I have been married into the Lin family for twenty-four years. I believe I have never disrespected my in-laws, failed as a wife, or neglected to educate my children. However, over the years, the Second Household has repeatedly provoked us, bullying our family with their power. Not only that, but they have also concocted various excuses to deceive and rob me of countless items."

"Some of these were dowry gifts, some were shops I was forced to pay tribute to, and vast amounts of silver have flowed from my pockets into the Second Household. Today, they ask for contributions to the prime minister's residence, tomorrow they seek fortunes for my husband and children, and the day after they want me to manage connections in the capital. There's always an excuse for their demands."

"I come from a family of merchants and know I'm not worthy of the eldest son of the Prime Minister's family, so I've endured much. But swallowing these bitter fruits only makes them think I'm weak and easy to bully!"

"Xingzhi joined the Royal Armor Army, Qianqian entered the palace, and now Muzhi has been beaten to the point of death; all the children of our main household have been harmed. Today, I dare to ask—will Father-in-law take action against such a blatant injustice that defies heaven's principles and cannot be forgiven by the laws of the land?"

Madam Dong's words were powerful, each syllable dripping with disgust and hatred.

She didn't start by accusing the princess but instead directed all the issues toward the Second Household.

Even so, Prime Minister Lin was no fool.

The reason the Second Household could bully others in the inner courtyard was undoubtedly because Princess Rongkang was supporting them from behind.

He flipped through the account books page by page.

The earlier pages were somewhat yellowed, clearly records from many years ago.

The Dong family relied on trade for their livelihood, so she was well-versed in bookkeeping from a young age.

Inside the accounts were not only accurate dates but also specific amounts.

There were records of the reasons for borrowing money, who conveyed the messages, who took the items, and even the final intended uses were documented.

Each entry was clear as day.

If these documents were sent to the Yingtian Prefecture, they would be irrefutable evidence.

The Second Household would not only face severe consequences but would be utterly stripped bare.

The more Prime Minister Lin read, the more alarmed he became.

When he finally saw the total amount, his pupils dilated slightly.

Three hundred eighty-six million taels of silver...

Even if the Second Household piled all that money in the Prime Minister's residence, it probably wouldn't fit.