Inside Mingwei Palace, Elder Pei grew somewhat anxious. "Your Majesty, the taxes of these past two years are already heavy. Only a few months ago we added the Kangrong tax, and now we would increase the taxes on shops in all regions. I fear there will be complaints everywhere. This matter would be best considered thrice before acted upon."
Emperor Jingyuan had been waiting for precisely these words. He looked at Elder Pei and asked, "Then what fine stratagem does Our beloved minister have to fill the national treasury? Shall We confiscate a few more nobles' households, or shall your noble families offer up their Silver yet again?"
These words were laden with murderous intent; Elder Pei's legs went weak. Forcing himself to steady, he said, "Your Majesty, only a few months ago the Shen and Sun families led all the great houses of Great Chu in presenting Silver to the court. If we ask for more now, I fear it would be excessive."
Bang!
