Chapter 108 - 106: The Unfeeling Emperor
Vice Minister Zhang?
Ye Qiu remembered, this man was the top scorer during the late Emperor’s era. Back then, while his literary grace wasn’t the most outstanding, his writings were the most practical. The late Emperor, pleased upon seeing them, exceptionally promoted him to top scorer. Unexpectedly, he turned out to be a student of Minister Liu.
Having thought this, Ye Qiu also had a foundation in his heart. Since Vice Minister Zhang was not only the Vice Minister of the Ministry of Revenue but also a student of Minister Liu, even if he gained a position, Ye Qiu wasn’t afraid of Prime Minister Xiao’s underhanded tactics. He had already made up his mind.
"We are informed. Xiao Shun, escort Minister Liu out."
Seeing Ye Qiu nod, Minister Liu knew that his words had been taken to heart, and couldn’t help but feel a trace of joy. Not that he was selfish, but he truly believed that his student was the most suitable person to fill his position.
After the court session, the Empress Dowager had already received a hint from Prime Minister Xiao and specifically invited Ye Qiu for lunch. Upon arrival, Ye Qiu found that Noble Consort Xiao was also there to serve, which did not surprise him.
During the meal, seeing Ye Qiu earnestly eating, Empress Dowager Xiao did not find it appropriate to speak. Finally, when the dishes were cleared away, she hurriedly began talking.
"Qiu’er, your uncle has been posted outside to Jiangxi for five years now, and the Shen Family recently sent a letter saying he hasn’t been well. The Empress Mother is very worried about him. What do you think... the local customs there are quite fierce, isn’t it time to recall him back to the capital?"
Ye Qiu nodded: "Empress Mother speaks reasonably. Uncle indeed deserves recognition for his hard work. I will issue the decree once I return."
Before Empress Dowager Xiao could rejoice, she heard Ye Qiu continue: "However, in the future, it would be better for Empress Mother not to mention these things again, lest the Imperial Censors take hold of this as an excuse to accuse you of intervening in politics from the harem. Although your son knows this is not your intention, it is hard to stop those outside from gossiping. Don’t you agree?"