"Secrets are weapons in the imperial court, and Lady Xia had just found the perfect one to wield."
———
Lady Xia stood by her window, deep in thought.
What she had just learned troubled her. Minister Li, one of the most powerful men in the empire, was caught in a corruption scandal.
Her spy's letter said he had huge gambling debts and was stealing royal money to pay them off.
This gave her a brilliant idea. Minister Li was known for wanting more wealth and power. If she could convince him to support her son Xuan's claim to the throne, it would give them a strong advantage.
But how could she bend him to her will?
She called her maid and told her to send a message to Minister Li, asking for a private meeting.
---
A few days later
Minister Li sat nervously in a private quarter, awaiting Lady Xia's arrival.
He had heard rumors that she held damaging information, and he prayed silently that it wouldn't involve his gambling which was a hidden addiction that had taken hold of his life.
Soon, Lady Xia entered the room with a serious expression. "Minister Li, it's good to finally meet you. I'm sure you know why we're here."
Li bowed his head respectfully. "My lady, I truly don't know why you have requested this meeting, as I have no idea what is on your mind."
"Rumor has it you're engaged in gambling," Lady Xia started slowly.
Minister Li's heart nearly stopped, but he forced himself to stay silent.
"So much so that it has become a way of life," she continued.
"My lady, as you said, they are just rumors," Li replied quietly, trying to keep his voice steady.
Lady Xia smiled subtly, feigning innocence are we?
"Lying won't help you now," she added.
Li took a deep breath. "My lady, please pardon this old man. I assure you, these are nothing but baseless rumors," he replied, hoping to avoid a fate far worse if the emperor ever found out.
"Very well," she whispered.
Minister Li felt a chill as Lady Xia calmly laid out everything she knew about his gambling, the debts piling up, the royal funds he had siphoned on the table.
Unable to hold himself back any longer, he dropped to his knees, pressing his forehead to the floor in surrender.
"My lady, I don't know how you came upon such private matters, but I acknowledge the truth,"
His voice shook in desperation. "Show mercy… If the emperor were to discover this…
Lady Xia looked at him impassively. "If you had admitted this sooner... I might have shown you kindness."
"Please, my lady, have mercy on this foolish old man. I.. I can be helpful to you. I'll do whatever you need... just say the word."
"Oh, really? And what could you possibly offer me?"
"My lady, whatever you ask, I'll make it happen."
"Fine," She said with a sigh. "Stand up, Minister. There is no need to kneel."
Li quickly got to his feet, waiting for her instructions.
"You should know that by keeping this secret from the emperor has left you in my debt."
She gave him a small smile.
"I understand, my lady."
"Now, you will fully support my son Xuan's claim to the throne. In return, your secret remains with me."
The minister started to speak, but Lady Xia raised her hand, her exquisitely manicured nails flashing. "Or I can see to it that you face execution myself."
Li paused, realizing he had no other choice if he wanted to keep his position and money. He could only nod in silence.
"Loyalty should be rewarded." She said slyly.
Then tossed him a heavy purse. "Consider this a little help with your finances. There will be more, if you stay... useful to me."
Minister Li's fear quickly dissolved into greed as he grabbed the purse, bowing low over his new prize.