Chapter 468: The Emperor’s Heart, Study Companion
Just as Emperor Chu expected, once a few of the married princes were conferred as kings, the structure of the court officials began to shift, with open and secret alliances forming. Emperor Chu merely watched the spectacle, allowing his sons to compete among themselves.
However, when the position of Director of the Ministry of War opened up, there was fierce competition for it. A fifth-rank position was a critical point, and no one wanted to miss such an opportunity, especially in the Ministry of War.
Yet, Emperor Chu assigned it temporarily to someone—none other than the Princely Heir of Duke Jing’an, who had recently submitted an impressive report as the Famine Relief Envoy.
The entire morning court was exceptionally quiet.
Imperial Censor Zhu stood up and said, "Your Majesty, this goes against propriety. The Princely Heir of Duke Jing’an is physically disabled. How can he undertake the clerical duties of the Ministry of War?"
Emperor Chu reclined lazily on the dragon throne and said, "What is inappropriate? Lu Ming has been on the battlefield and led troops; he should be well-acquainted with the affairs of the Ministry of War. What is inappropriate? The court employs only those willing to work sincerely. Even if one is whole and unscathed, what’s the use if they’re incompetent? Lu Ming is disabled? He is determined despite his disabilities!"
Imperial Censor Zhu was at a loss for words.
He frowned and persisted, "Your Majesty, tradition dictates that those with disabilities cannot participate in the imperial examinations or hold office..."
"Indeed, but didn’t Lu Ming not take the imperial examinations? So it’s not against the rules," Emperor Chu replied.
Imperial Censor Zhu: "..."
So angry that his liver hurt!
You are just playing semantics here.
"Your Majesty..."
"My decision is made. Lu Ming will temporarily hold the position of Director of the Ministry of War. ’Temporarily’ means temporarily replacing, understand? Fine, return to your place!" Emperor Chu waved a hand and said, "What’s this talk about being unable to hold office due to disabilities? Didn’t Liao Yong lose a right hand, yet he fights valiantly on the battlefield? I appointed him as a general, and isn’t that an official position?"
The officials: "..."
You are right. Whatever you say is right!
Emperor Chu ceased dwelling on the matter, only looking at Lu Ming and saying, "Lu Ming, you must do well. Don’t let down the favor I’ve fought for you in this Jinluan Hall. If you don’t perform well, I will personally remove you!"
Lu Ming knelt down, "I, your subject, will comply with the decree."
Prime Minister Fan hugged his hand-held tablet, his gaze sweeping over Lu Ming to land on Song Zhiyuan, his eyes flickering slightly.
Song Zhiyuan gave him a slight smile.
Prime Minister Fan rolled his eyes and snorted.
Emperor Chu then assigned tasks to a few already ennobled princes, which excited them greatly, each loudly proclaiming their loyalty.
Having real duties gave them the legitimate opportunity to establish their own factions.
How could they not be excited?
A few princes exchanged glances, rubbing their palms, competing secretly.
Besides achieving accomplishments, another point they competed on was producing heirs.
Unfortunately, among those who married together, none had any news to show yet, luckily.
After the court dispersed, Song Zhiyuan was summoned again to the Imperial Study. This time, it was a private matter, concerning selecting a study companion for the fifth imperial prince. The emperor was considering either his eldest son or Song Lingjie, letting him choose one.
Song Zhiyuan paused for a moment, deliberated, and said, "Your Majesty, my eldest son has already turned fourteen this year. I plan for him to enter the academy in this round, and his tutor has also arranged to take him on a tour of study. I fear..."
"So, you refuse?" Emperor Chu raised an eyebrow.
Song Zhiyuan cupped his hands and said, "Actually, compared to my eldest son, I feel my nephew Lingjie is more astute and resourceful. He is only thirteen."
This statement was not without a probing intent.
Emperor Chu’s eyes narrowed slightly. Prime Minister Song, are you trying to probe the emperor’s intentions?
"Then let it be that boy. Let him serve as Ye’er’s study companion in the Upper Study Room."
"Thank you, Your Majesty, for the grace." Song Zhiyuan bowed down.
The decree for the fifth imperial prince’s study companion was soon read to several families: Song Minister’s Mansion, Duke Ying Mansion, Meng’s Mansion, and Duke Cheng’en.