Chapter 1533: Xia Yu’s Scion in Trouble

The Emperor, from time to time, faces life-and-death questions, yet as the chief eunuch by the Emperor’s side, Lord Zhou, he takes it as a matter of routine.

He chuckled, saying, "They are the dragon’s sons and phoenix’s grandsons, how could they be foolish? They are your dragon’s sons after all. Although Wu Wang is not as savvy as Prince Xiao, he seems to be sincere."

Emperor Chu nodded, "Indeed, his request to govern a fief already shows he’s not foolish."

This remark, however, Lord Zhou dared not continue, he merely smiled lightly, saying, "No matter what, Wu Wang’s Princess is going to give you another royal grandchild, that is fortuitous indeed."

"Hmm, indeed it is. Go to the Imperial Household Department and convey my orders, send some fine medicinal supplements to Wu Wang’s mansion. Ah, the new year is almost upon us; add two bolts of cloud brocade as well."

"Yes, Sire."

As these words fell, Song Zhiyuan came to request an audience, and seeing the subtle smile on Emperor Chu’s face, couldn’t help but ask if there was good news.

Emperor Chu casually mentioned Wu Wang’s request to govern a fief: "This second one, do you think he is clever?"

"Dragon’s sons and phoenix’s grandsons, how could there be fools?" Song Zhiyuan said without thinking, flattering him.

Emperor Chu glanced obliquely at him, then at Lord Zhou, saying, "The two of you speak in one accord, quite in sync."

Lord Zhou chuckled lightly, "Both this servant and Prime Minister Song are at the service of the Emperor."

Song Zhiyuan said, "Going to govern a fief is also good, away from the center of disputes, less involvement in conflicts, could ease your mind."

Emperor Chu toyed with the prayer beads in his hand, chuckling, "If someone wants to involve himself in disputes, it’s not necessarily at the center of power, so whether it eases my mind remains to be seen."

Indeed, so let us wait and see, then.

"What brings you here?" Emperor Chu looked toward him.

Song Zhiyuan said, "As for the chief examiner of next year’s spring exam, whom are you considering?"

"Scholar Meng hasn’t participated in examining for many years; let him do it this time."

Song Zhiyuan raised a brow, Scholar Meng is an interesting person, he doesn’t follow rules; in past exams, those he selected often proposed unorthodox and bold arguments.

Typically, older scholars’ arguments tend to be stable. If Scholar Meng examines, those with conventional essays, even though selected, might rank lower, while those looking younger are preferred.

The Emperor is planning to use this spring exam to cultivate a team for the young Crown Prince?

"What do you think?" Emperor Chu glanced over.

Song Zhiyuan bowed, saying, "The Emperor is wise; this humble servant believes Scholar Meng will surely select pillars of talent."

"Your two sons not participating? They might catch his eye."

Song Zhiyuan shook his head, "The two boys were lucky enough to pass the exams; their studies still need to be solidified—give it a few more years, let them become more mature and adept in handling matters, so they won’t participate this time. Let them first marry and then build their careers."

Emperor Chu nodded, "Indeed, brothers serving in the same court is wonderful, but it wouldn’t be good to have brothers, fathers, sons, and nephews all together, so it’s good to wait. Have you set a date for the marriages?"

"It’s set for March next year." Song Zhiyuan’s eyes relaxed, saying, "Let’s see if this humble servant has the fortune to become a grandfather early, like you."

Emperor Chu raised a brow, just about to speak when eunuch footsteps came hastily, causing him to pause.

Lord Zhou stepped forward, listened to the report of the arriving person, then hurried over, reporting, "Your Majesty, regarding the criminal Xia at the other manor, there’s word he is unwell and wishes to see Your Majesty."

Emperor Chu’s eagle eyes narrowed, a cold gleam flashing within.