"I'll go to the palace first. We'll discuss everything else when I return," Yu Mingjing said, her words carrying a double meaning.
Lord Lu came from a prominent clan, and many of the officials he recommended were connected to aristocratic families. While there might have been some favoritism, outright selling of offices was an exaggeration.
Now, it all depended on the Emperor's stance: whether he intended to escalate the matter or handle it with leniency.
Yu Mingyue nodded. The Crown Prince summoning her brother to the palace for discussion meant there was still a chance for Lord Lu's situation. Otherwise, if the Emperor had made a final decision, there would be no need for further discussion.
The Eastern Palace
Xiao Che convened a meeting with his Eastern Palace officials. Although Yu Mingjing had resigned, he still occupied the seat of honor, a testament to Xiao Che's high regard for him.
Some of his old subordinates were unfazed. His Highness and Young Master Yu shared a bond of life and death; Young Master Yu had saved His Highness's life several times in perilous situations.
Back in Youzhou, conditions had been harsh, and the Crown Prince had even shared a bed with them. It was just a chair, nothing to fuss about.
However, not everyone took such a broad view.
It might have been acceptable before, but now, with Yu Mingjing backed by the Cui clan, the situation was different. Him sitting there so nonchalantly was rather presumptuous.
Yu Mingjing, however, remained composed, as if oblivious to the gazes directed at him.
This was the current court of the Great Wei. While soldiers faced death on the battlefield, their fates were decided by a group of schemers, leaving them vulnerable from all sides.
Since the Emperor intended to reform, the changes should be thorough.
The soldiers who steadfastly guarded the borders should not be framed simply because they couldn't gain an audience with the Emperor.
And the ambitious individuals in the court, who lacked sycophancy, should not be ostracized by cliques.
"What is everyone's opinion on the matter of Lord Lu selling offices?" Xiao Che asked.
The Emperor's move to curb the influence of aristocratic clans cleared the path for the new ruler, a development the Eastern Palace officials were naturally pleased to see.
With some old officials out of the way, positions would open up in the court. It had always been the way of things: a new emperor, new officials.
"Your Highness, Lord Lu's practice of selling offices has long been an open secret in court. Every person he has promoted over the years holds a significant position in various government departments."
"Indeed, the evidence is conclusive."
"It is known throughout the realm that the Lu clan of Fanyang is the wealthiest. Who would have thought they were so resourceful in generating wealth."
...
Although some of these officials were selected by the imperial examinations, many were recommended by aristocratic families.
Their current positions could not be attributed solely to these clans, but at least they owed them guidance and the grace of recognition. Now, as the clans declined, these individuals were eager to distance themselves. Such opportunism made them unfit for great responsibility.
While aristocratic clans had many bad habits, they were not without merit.
"Your Highness, this humble official believes that the so-called selling of offices is a baseless accusation. Even if these individuals are all from aristocratic families, it has always been the practice to recommend talent without regard for kinship. The court has always selected officials in this manner. If this investigation continues, I fear everyone in court will be on edge, and who will dare to recommend talent to the court in the future?" said Zhou Zixuan.
Although the Emperor promoted the imperial examination system, it was held only once every three years, and the number of talents selected was limited, failing to meet the court's needs. Therefore, recommendations remained the primary method.
"This is precisely the harm of aristocratic clans. They form factions, engage in corruption, and are greedy," someone immediately retorted.
"You also studied at the Lu clan's academy. Did your teachers teach you to form factions, be corrupt, and greedy!" Lu Bingwen retorted sarcastically.
Zhou Zixuan smiled and picked up his teacup. "One should remember where their blessings come from. Even if one doesn't show gratitude, they shouldn't stab someone in the back. Ignorance can be remedied, but a corrupt character is beyond saving."
Zhou Zixuan, Lu Bingwen, and Xie Jiayan were all jinshi from the same examination year. The former had studied at the Cui clan's academy, and the latter came from the Lu clan of Fanyang. Naturally, they spoke in defense of Lord Lu.
"What do you mean by that? Who are you calling corrupt?"