The ten scholars heaved a sigh of relief.
Chu Heng sat beside Elder Zhong, speaking softly.
Yet, he did not entirely ignore the ten scholars.
The first to go and fetch the paper as instructed was a thirty-five-year-old man named Yan Zhenming.
Chu Heng had reviewed his background; he was not a local of the capital, passed the imperial examination at twenty-eight, and had been living in the capital for seven years. To this day, he made a living by writing articles. Although his family was only modestly wealthy, he had managed to support his wife and children in the capital through his own efforts. His abilities were quite impressive.
Elder Zhong, seeing his gaze fall on the group of people, smiled and asked, "Zi Qiu, have you chosen someone?"
"Mm, letās not rush. Iāll choose whoever is capable." Chu Heng poured a cup of tea for Elder Zhong.
He then picked up his pen and began writing some regulations.
Elder Zhong found this intriguing: "Zi Qiu, this method is good, though I fear I wonāt be of much help."
"Why do you say that, My Lord? Iām just doing my duty, those who can, do more work. Of course, it would be even better if you would consider granting me a higher salary," Chu Heng calmly expressed a desire for a raise.
Elder Zhong couldnāt help but laugh heartily upon hearing this: "You sly one, with your wifeās business doing so well, are you still in need of taels of silver?"
"Elder, you said it yourself, that is my wifeās store. As the head of the household, I only take my salary, and itās only natural to strive for more, to buy some treats for my wife and children," Chu Heng didnāt mind admitting he relied on his wifeās earnings.
Those familiar with his family situation knew very well that he indeed lived off his wifeās support.
Elder Zhong saw his straightforwardness, not at all resentful about relying on his wife, stroked his beard, and couldnāt help but admire Chu Hengās excellent character. Even as an old official, he couldnāt find any fault.
"Then, I shall go and have a word with the Ministry of Revenue," Elder Zhong said, half-jokingly.
Chu Heng nodded with a smile, accepting it without hesitation; after all, it was hard-earned by him, so he had no guilt in taking it.
Doing good work and receiving silver rewards is only fair.
When Chu Heng returned home that evening, it was quite late, and darkness had already fallen.
Ye Muyu was waiting for him to return and had not yet dined.
She was writing a storybook in the study and upon hearing sounds from the outer room, she put down her brush and ink, walked out, and saw Chu Heng washing his hands and changing clothes. She stepped forward to help him with his clothes.
"You came back rather early today, werenāt you busy with the Official Gazette Office?" Ye Muyu may not focus on matters of the capital, but with her informants, she never missed any small or large news.
Liuye paid more attention to Chu Hengās affairs, noticing the affection between the two, so Ye Muyu achieved complete awareness without having to personally inquire, as people brought news of Chu Heng to her.
"Just busy with sorting officials at the Gazette," Chu Heng never hid his official circle matters from her, and even mentioned Elder Zhongās stance.
Ye Muyu was a bit curious: "Is Elder Zhong accommodating you, Ah Heng?"
"I suppose so, the Emperorās intentions are known to all officials now, and no one wants to stand out. Elder Zhong is an Imperial Loyalist, naturally respecting the Emperorās decree. Moreover, Elder Zhong himself is a great scholar, beloved by the people. Now, although it is said that the Emperor intends to cultivate his own followers, this promotion of children from families who are not officials.