"Precisely because of this, the official newspaper will not shy away from anyone, even the officials in the court will not be influenced by their status. I made a counterexample in this matter; I am not afraid of losing face. But in the future, if any official breaks the law, there will be no reason to oppose its publication." Chu Heng said methodically.
His attitude towards Emperor Xuanming was respectful and courteous, from beginning to end, without the slightest hint of impatience.
This level of acting, he still possessed; after all, he had performed for many years in his past life.
Upon entering the court, he could maneuver with ease, leaving no traces. Even Emperor Xuanming could not discern any trace of his performance.
Only Chu Hengâs trembling, arduous effort to atone for his deeds and his righteous and slightly uncompromising stance were visible.
Emperor Xuanmingâs expression improved slightly.
"Of course, the reason I published the transgression in the official newspaper this time was because I was utterly vexed by being schemed against, so I did it deliberately. I hope Your Majesty considers the remedial actions Iâve taken and allows me to make amends." Chu Hengâs face showed emotion outwardly, speaking very plainly.
The discomfort in Emperor Xuanmingâs heart, upon hearing his forthright words, dissolved into a feeling that Chu Heng was an ordinary person with ordinary temperaments.
Compared to those with deep, calculative minds, he naturally preferred officials with flaws.
Besides, Chu Hengâs abilities were evident.
He also didnât want to lose such a fine Loyal Official.
Furthermore,
Currently, within the court, there might be officials even deeper in collusion than Minister Qi and Xiang City.
He needed an official to oppose these individuals.
Chu Heng was very suitable.
He couldnât bear to dismiss such a good official.
Certainly, although Chu Heng did not notify in advance about the publication in the official newspaper this time, he had a contingency plan. It was not merely out of frustration and selfishness, neglecting the imperial court.
Officials who design with a bottom line are precisely those he dares and is willing to employ.
"Since you know youâve made a mistake, your salary will not be returned to you, but there should be no next time." Emperor Xuanming gave both a stick and a sweet jujube.
After Chu Heng stood up, he waved for him to leave.
And with that, the matter was considered closed.
When Chu Heng exited the Imperial Study, he noticed two additional palace ladies outside.
Upon seeing him, the two palace ladies looked at him with an ambiguous expression.
Chu Hengâs memory was sharp; these two should be from Consort Deng Jieyuâs palace. It seemed Deng Jieyu also intended to take the opportunity to kick him when he was down.
Chu Heng tucked away his tail, feeling quite good. After leaving the palace, he first went to the yamen.
The Court of Judicial Reviewâs disposition regarding Xie Zhao and others was exile.
It wasnât supposed to be this severe, after all, Chu Heng had not been injured.
But Chu Heng had exposed the conspiracy between Minister Qi and Xiang City, which naturally aroused Emperor Xuanmingâs fears, leading the Minister of Dali Temple to impose the heaviest punishment.
Meanwhile, Hu Hua was also dismissed from office.
Now, even Xiang City dared not plead for him.
Xie Zhao, a minor official sent to the Ministry of War due to Hu Hua, had his vulnerabilities easily exploited, resulting in his removal and subsequent exile.
With the Ministry of War Office matter handled,
Chu Heng then went to the Official Gazette Office.
He gave his own people some instructions along the way.
Upon reaching the Official Gazette Office,
Yan Zhenming, hearing that he had arrived, quickly came out to greet him, with a look that was both apprehensive and expectant. The usual stern, expressionless face now had a myriad of expressions.
He looked at Chu Heng, hesitating to speak: "Lord Chu..."
"Whatâs the matter?" Chu Hengâs face revealed nothing of what had transpired.