This official is so weak

xjdHWokEOAhsHEcTable of Contents

Chapter 5

Ning Rushen woke from a fitful sleep to find ten burly men encircling his courtyard, almost believing he was caught in a spell.QyGdWhckhRXNbVlCxIiklhdsZtVrgw

UGRoDCUakmhUrxR

It remained uncertain whether the intervention of the ten protectors had taken effect or if the petty thief had been utterly worn out by him, but for the following two days, the adversary seemed to have ceased their approaches.HSeNqzGxSfQJGHyUaqpGbhMHeDbpgO

lYMZPEKrIgMPKFp

De Quan arrived with the imperial decree to deliver rewards, greeting Ning Rushen with a beaming smile, “My lord must take good care of himself and return to his duties soon. Do not let down His Majesty’s grace.”whYFslMuyqQEswfvxOVatdMTDmimvy

wHtNyoxLLqaDcGT

At first, he seemed intent on yelling him to death, but now he was saving him and even providing medicinal herbs. Regardless of whether it was for show or another motive, it appeared that Li Wuting had no desire to take his life.HVqpSJbTvrmhBXMBRWHSqRlIunGKyq

VPNbGAPaJEIOnQq

As he expressed his gratitude, his eyelashes slightly drooped, and his eyes shimmered with a faint aqua, displaying a weary sickness.yUdMAYfqidpnjUvYOyXwRUJELOwrpg

IaqbXHsMtDrHghz

De Quan exclaimed in concern, “My lord, have you not rested well?”XUCUZTqpeTmaYSSZsXZBefGWpCmZHY

uAdmqvzLMYJzyHU

“It’s nothing,” Ning Rushen couldn’t admit it was due to his standoff with the bandit, instead changing the subject, “It’s merely concern for His Majesty that keeps me from sleeping at night.”qjnEmbqefLrxXBcUTyzCGFPSuIfZwQ

ElRGUOBLLGNCHfL

De Quan offered a comforting smile, brushing off the dust with his duster, “This servant will surely convey my lord’s sentiments.”jbYPyKqCeMgSyKkydHuZVuthDOhggq

BTILllYxEZAMPVy

Ning Rushen offered a polite smile in return.jdgwllKkjfGkYbLaFUUupRFgBLjLnH

PIpOKDcZQVEyLdv

It was possible, but unnecessary.gtYOXKTRLkQuMsTyaSHYKbELhpNVPT

NZgMHsoYklxJtOU

After the departure of the palace entourage, the maid, Xinglan, sorted through the supplements sent over, her face alight with joy, “His Majesty really treats my lord well, these are all top-notch ingredients! I will select some to make soup for my lord right away.”eipIrKcZgVDPtZrNVizISNxmEwirjv

ZGZmBGFbqhTmLVr

Ning Rushen nodded, his hands tucked into his sleeves, then added, “Just pick from today’s selection, no need for tomorrow.”uTNfvyQLnJQjAnMGbxtREoyqkvVfii

WSjyWAXOBVtVpew

Yan Min inquired, “Does my lord have plans for tomorrow?”VSAKDpSCsmEKiuOoGCTXaVtUGcNfvW

xGyJUniNlNCvvWF

Ning Rushen gazed beyond the mansion, “Hmm, to enjoy the autumn breeze.”NozfOiAfjkakBvFRnqmsnrOHEitDpY

GfksvpeDbIMHAEB

sbMQlcXfbgeSPgIyRSdIKRVjqrbsyC

DXJVxvzKeqcMpSB

The meeting with Geng Yan was scheduled for the following day.WnrAgCKuBAVmNmCgVWyyjlNMaAgjxC

uNpVJDbXezMZPOA

Before leaving, Yan Min draped a cloak over Ning Rushen while incessantly advising, “It’s good to take a walk outside… but you mustn’t drink alcohol again, nor should you stay in the wind.”YsAxtWMNrSCvOKkCSpntYMBXLSHjSg

gLTdumoJgpKTJwf

Ning Rushen fastened the cloak adorned with silvery white cloud patterns, the bright red clothes beneath making him strikingly handsome and elegant. Despite a slight pallor, his appearance lost none of its charm, instead carrying a unique allure.DLfRCcXivmEgIHakEsVMFUBIMPCxyk

gnfUJgaHdGrHwhT

Upon hearing this, he seemed to ponder, as if inspired.VgmpHMvlTgBhbsYekLcoBkGPyajgEv

kbRXHdvjYaDUhAz

Yan Min was on high alert, “Don’t even think about it!”pFMOAouggawCHwzjOINfaBqPuYzIAX

DxtdkmtNPBGNjTs

Ning Rushen gave up, “Alright, alright, I know.”nfnydVzUgzJYEFSfmzYGBpgacVhnmH

neVSkquXlNoMIXh

The carriage made its way through the bustling streets to the base of Wanghe Tower.FVSjmGvcvtVMLizxnajhjNALhXAYgP

vXOikfgnpFTTxJQ

Located in the bustling southern part of the city, Wanghe Tower was surrounded by a flurry of activity, with people and vehicles coming and going. The guests inside were never-ending, contributing to the lively atmosphere.omuFsxeQcmhcIqQwICixoafzFwEywi

YBFlAilJYEULpEK

Ning Rushen lifted the curtain of the carriage and stepped out.sUFvSlORJdxuZxEshxFFIEoleAxTtA

lsofpFjNaNsaEMv

Dressed in a crimson robe with a white cloak, he was particularly eye-catching among the crowd. As soon as he appeared, a waiter promptly welcomed him inside, “Esteemed guest, please come this way!”yHZFkDDBSmoDponIJkRhxgOqrxsAAR

XKzQizOpXUbJRqY

Ning Rushen mentioned Geng Yan’s name and was quickly led to a private room on the second floor.wkydBdhoeJdqfkDyfibaZORjzeQkNy

bBtzBayWtMjbgOs

Inside, Geng Yan was already waiting.pbQVnGDUmqVwyTYlbvVqAnPTSMHiaZ

zuyXVbyfoXSLoqU

He was by the window, staring out into the cold wind blowing outside.IRVIFRNqICTvoUYeeBxJIgoDRflaTV

VbVNJsxDsYmxXbr

The cold wind greeted Ning Rushen, making him shiver and clutch his cloak tighter as he looked at Geng Yan, “An ambush from all sides? A banquet set for a trap?”WvejHDnBEVHUkVIKnYscTYsXERyKcd

RlvYNgenOptGxbI

Geng Yan raised his hand to close the window.BTJVxNVBocVcTEbkqRZmnIocmSRwKa

AsqeTjLweduUynb

With the warmth returning to the room, Ning Rushen took a seat without ceremony and ordered a large table full of dishes.aQzFvBzkuhtgrZhVBafzbiZNzFZDMx

kZFEATXAWMRNSci

Once the dishes were served and the door was shut, Ning Rushen rubbed his hands together, eager to begin eating. “What’s so important that you had to call me out here?”IDsBFeSxvZshsCuFXOytuUBDlfuwSf

UdQgjbgmrsrsDWQ

Geng Yan didn’t touch his chopsticks, as if he had no appetite. “You haven’t been attending court these past few days, so you’re unaware of the turmoil that’s erupted.”GaUuzcGWeGxeIwkYriUBLuzwApZneq

nlYNJnavhIcONAv

Ning Rushen, busy with his meal, signaled with his eyes for Geng Yan to continue.ROfLEwsmEhZDAqrsxGYyUqFbGqsERV

zrBvFFiinCTwpnH

Geng Yan explained, “Since His Majesty ascended the throne, he has issued several decrees… The decrees are good in principle, but each one requires funds. All five departments are demanding money from the Ministry of Revenue. My father, as the Minister of Revenue, is unable to produce the funds, and he has been under constant impeachment these past few days.”ifpguVxWpMlGMlTKoDmEDfWOktnNht

yHKJAEFrTAwdHrD

Ning Rushen was surprised, “The treasury is that depleted? Where’s the money?”bejBaRHhdqrKVNcKmxlwdnpViDrLWy

rfuIcEOfRhqLXjw

As he observed the prosperity and wealth of the streets on his way here, he had assumed that the state treasury of Dacheng must be well-supplied.SVMwKIvVLdGXzaUIriiWwFOjwxkGaz

ahHQBFATPFlYZXb

The treasury is indeed full.hdSFqFsDwlculBesWrXWJzWwcYFCpZ

EpPKganjzKvhogP

Geng Yan’s expression became somewhat embarrassed.GAboLytTstKuZoRkzZCoWqidzZeOCS

KfOzQYvLIsQNbYb

Ning Rushen paused for a moment, suddenly finding the food in his mouth tasteless, as his gaze upon the table full of dishes turned as if he were looking at illicit money.XYsmbogSlEeAvcZPtxPCvpBuiNTEJU

gXPAygOvPZIowVP

Silently, he put down his chopsticks and scooted back a little.fdBvCckNIrLWAZkbaLmwjfuEKJguKf

kDywEDKJlzpkHzx

Geng Yan, seeing this, became irritated. “What’s with that look? My father hasn’t embezzled any funds! Eat your meal!”efNNNrKdpjbNviMVYKGsTSuOfGtNpt

SSBidiwOlJpcBdh

Ning Rushen picked up his chopsticks again, half-convinced, “Then where did the money go? If there’s no embezzlement, why not report it?”vjjYczChjElgdoeHNWgUPKWxvFENEr

AozfrfHzucUtXeV

Geng Yan shook his head in despair, “It’s tied to the struggle for the throne… Do you remember the rumor I told you about?”eBatzUasPPmeZmxPxbZCfeBjluzWoF

iSmaOmDiLVBCFZW

Ning Rushen then recalled the news he had heard on the night of the palace banquet:rMavHXItZSpuOgWWrLDydVMCesJgFm

YRnDNScxSjhunhE

The current Emperor, Li Wuting, was the third son of the previous emperor. Rumors had it that his mother, Consort Xian, died at the hands of the then Empress, Cui Shi.EeqyeavpKWcvuYYGwNNSlvFwmRsqOw

bGKjHPgjgvobkET

In those days, the power of the imperial in-laws was overwhelming, and the Crown Prince’s faction could cover the sky with one hand. Even if Cui Shi was suspected of plotting against the empress, the previous emperor did not hold her accountable.NufHKSpLqIIgjYhnefSIFocBeiHLqR

IjmOKOBRpCuQOZV

No one expected the Crown Prince’s faction to collapse overnight.alWJtJpBIMBbAWQgHmfjuPxzPQTnOe

PLAWDEptGGjdwpB

After the emperor’s death, an edict was issued for Empress Cui to be buried with him.nJwrEfkWymyiDFClNNBwoPlPAoPPPS

insAVXEtusgECsQ

Upon his ascension, the third son, Li Wuting, began to gradually diminish the vast power of the Cui family.DzUGBCHdqAsijunQIeSjiRdKyxPzFK

uGehGzZAiTEMBej

A troubling speculation slowly formed in Ning Rushen’s mind, “…Could it be, all the money went to the former Crown Prince?”VdQKKXWdJIOjyeiRrsPfswCMJfuicg

QUOijdlwcfmZurf

Geng Yan nodded wearily, “In the early years, the Crown Prince’s faction almost treated the Ministry of Revenue as their private treasury, endlessly reaching out for money. Plus, with the former emperor’s favoritism towards the Crown Prince, my father couldn’t afford to offend the future monarch and had no choice but to hand over the funds. After the Crown Prince fell from power in the struggle for the throne, that money was lost, and the huge deficit created couldn’t be filled so quickly.”kPnkttZfxXfkTDWoBMSWmTsQUuaoyF

pAedOSRwXWNptjp

Ning Rushen rolled up his sleeves and sighed.qkjqMBDhDDROEGvXMnUAQbUrRyJiIb

ODjcyBcMjlqxqCz

Although Cui Shi no longer monopolized power, a centipede dies but never falls down. The former imperial father-in-law, Cui Hao Yuan, still held the position of the current Right Chancellor, a connection beyond Geng Yue’s reach.yRzhkBLinXSFAKBrYeAXnqXCnpWaUb

KOIcaYOUtSiSRec

Moreover, the situation was even more sensitive due to the involvement of factional disputes.kPTnbzczHvfdJpJQEvShvKxgxbohqC

olDYsJJnZkKWoca

“What’s the Emperor’s stance in court?”ckXmgQweLsEuEoFMncYMCcgSaiJozZ

OArGVuOBPiwBDBY

“I don’t know,” Geng Yan shook his head. “Can’t make out anything.”yQmXrMrtgEdNWCcnpChqILljnAASlz

OQxuILFslHaQJpx

He remembered his father’s expression upon returning from court—ZqzXAOCbEfabwiKYxlKrZQgtFWwehc

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The young Emperor, barely in his twenties, was an enigma even to the seasoned officials of two reigns.fefUjDpnSDgIZVLzYjBloQjKYmyvLw

gvXrXOhVaDbzgIg

“So, the reason I sought you out… in the imperial presence, could you possibly…” Geng Yan started awkwardly and with difficulty, “If it’s not possible, then forget it. No need to force yourself. After all… you’ve never been under any obligation to me.”JesKmxokZwBlAoRmqFrLRqoEkuCfOt

HHBsnRzcfYkOvdZ

Ning Rushen understood. Geng Yan wanted him to feel out the situation.VdzRpjHDfdgvmUWinwrgNnjtUIieIA

PahKZOuqBbmTzdi

Outsiders thought he was in the Emperor’s good graces, but only he knew he was as precarious as a clay Buddha crossing a river.DUkIcvLpYynzrSrnAEMnGhoxmTalTy

hwvxgeqnKyyTAAE

He quietly asked, “If corruption is admitted, what would the sentence be?”TPmMYIXYLeEkxBuKKCTZVCLfdAvOAj

efUstKYbCVNsaFC

Geng Yan replied, “Confiscation of property, exile.”UthQdYOSkQUKUPNHItJvFjSuvpEqEB

kWVeaanDanduoKS

Confiscation and exile.XOpfDBmMqTUrUrKHWaipjcUBUHIIPr

QOvHlQFMXyymIRU

Ning Rushen looked at him, with complex admiration, “Then you’re pretty calm about it.”eANFkPXwtzyfqzwkVAISYwiwkIMyIh

WRrxmXtHUWJDZHZ

His entire family faced relocation to the south.amBQJvWDiIAZiNOrvFOpqppSyFBEWR

vBPSIQeGRnPkHNc

Yet here he was, still climbing over his walls and inviting him for meals.jQWcKuHPyeIRjoobMlpKcbDKJkbiqV

aQGGBbjLaGtPjxw

“Entering the court as an official, I was prepared for such outcomes from the start,” Geng Yan took a sip of tea, “If I really get exiled to the borderlands, I might as well start selling…”KIbtFpSSwJJrbqcHRjWXadSqVcDpEC

yMkHfNqKyNQlDjb

Ning Rushen tensed up.KZdXivItxsHbFFohUluRfSjLrQueAt

TayLGFBxQKEAWaw

Geng Yan continued, “…baked sweet potatoes.”IrYPFGJRINjffhFMVbpMHcClgyRblG

eIJkQPrdPnimlHp

Ning Rushen breathed a sigh of relief, “Try not to gasp when you speak.”OxZJwWyZOucSnNQhDHxntXTsFLBNdB

iPNkkrPMIwGRygL

“…?”GXIgQeRsTVdCokmTvfOhMsQbAfNMDV

lChIqphIRgoGKQK

Ning Rushen diverted his gaze.ObIyHrOzCsZNZHhfFGzunvjuMMdZKb

qmvQrxekgXKrptt

His fingertips brushed against the cup, his eyelashes slightly lowered: Preparedness, huh.nalJZMaHFPbQJhDDkTYqeKeGuulPVh

WfcxdLfrPqzMmhE

Since his arrival in this era, he had been drifting aimlessly, evading the questions he purposefully avoided by taking sick leave. Now, they resurfaced in this manner—aBpMZfXartedSdulfARPXXxnnmYQmc

LISkihSULZMQZoj

In this whirlpool of power, was he to remain forever on the sidelines, or let himself be carried away by the current.YKdbcRnDvMXnEahdcwbAPCoFwAXNoJ

gWjRUWbvcxSMzDC

“Or perhaps, to willingly step into it, to carve out a third path,” he mused, leaning against the window frame, speaking to Geng Yan. “Add another crystal dumpling to my order.”eRwWwBMURmetytvBnBOSNMqnccesdj

BsTKROcsweEqvRz

(T/N I googled Crystal dumpling and its basically dim sum)BlDyFdfZuYTdIDQtLptjFsOeRTXfBi

sPDxQobOEXYesqF

Geng Yan was momentarily taken aback. “What?”XzIzyffqTLSWQtjHbcjOZKZcXJNUgY

CTYtrcGjehbGqSX

“Another crystal dumpling,” Ning Rushen reiterated, supporting his chin as he looked at him. “Now I owe you a favor. There’s an old saying, ‘A favor received makes one’s mouth soft.'”JAVVVzUvVBOHoeSpCbfsZHyGVhBUeN

TgOfSZhQchvCXpr

Geng Yan’s eyes widened slightly in surprise. “You…”NIbwBPSEIqrBBVrLNqIlrlasYHibPP

uGksGYyBqkcefmr

Ning Rushen smiled.xIVVeNXrfYaYqTvmMoSnZfShOnqiXo

YSaUpwmNWhNLjRo

He had made up his mind.FFJrLauvgtdnpTLaKQFesgsiXxKgrw

GnERsxUOaolYBgA

Rolling up his sleeves, he looked away casually. “Can’t help it. Someone said I’m quite skilled, not one to follow the beaten path.”LkRDykqZzTHwcOLnEBlmtKVzdqRhWC

WkSUiuhRTATVZop

After a day of rest, Ning Rushen was ready to return to the palace for his duties.ACNnKfrkEziZOdrTcyKTuyRDvrBgxi

bTqCVkJBghuylhk

His body had mostly recovered, and the matters concerning Minister Geng could not be delayed.xcRZkpgIKrkDWHvHdMUArtDCkgLRmS

RsiaGvEUpwkLMTz

He donned his court attire, which he hadn’t worn for a long time. Timing his arrival to coincide with Li Wuting’s departure from the morning court, he made his way to the Imperial Study to report.XGdzdglvSCIRcGDjfUBwOOgoWRMsoH

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Upon reaching the Imperial Study, Li Wuting had not yet arrived.TMFucSUPcGpzeBOkXfunVHbXwrpfOt

CkcsuvrLNKyRKbJ

Only Xiao Rongzi was waiting at the door. He greeted Ning Rushen, “Lord Ning, you are well. His Majesty just concluded the morning court. Please wait a moment longer.”atcWzDDoHxbGydxhBNALRUWqfOwdon

BlgiIYYStgjkUoO

Ning Rushen adjusted his sleeves, “It’s no trouble.”WqljMSXPsxqlDCXuJFrouzCZJuamuR

EeumZqsgiAfUCaf

It was early spring, and the weather was still bitterly cold. Ning Rushen waited in the chilly breeze at the door for quite some time before Li Wuting finally appeared before him.JpHcnUUAGyyDpZCWuMLUIiJAEnCzwQ

tbGPqxgubhktgnr

“This humble official pays his respects to Your Majesty.”kRMCDEjEEKWoWitIHBmcAHMxBDUoam

jocrlGaRTZjGxkI

Li Wuting glanced at him.joKLPTpNrVhOWsOMxLWkTkfFsxhFKD

FRebKnLDGwSVQqz

Having not seen him for several days, Ning Rushen seemed to have become even thinner, to the point where his belt could barely contain his waist. His nose tip was reddened from the cold, making him look rather pitiable.VCGieiBTumHjpSHADzMFXASixqSVFJ

tXPYtFwnUvEoutz

Li Wuting instinctively wanted to say something but stopped himself as he began to speak, then shifted his gaze and stepped through the door. “Come in,” he said.agvVDvnyiiKFUcgEYDnojAHhnDGnAC

oxzfhucfYTAuFzs

Ning Rushen followed close behind, almost chasing the king’s footsteps into the warmth of the house like a cat afraid of the cold. “Thank you, Your Majesty…”AjXAwNnqRPYbPvzFUHITyWSfejuQuA

wUtXmvhLwGFcjPv

De Quan silently trailed behind them.fmDsHWnwqNcDDfwmUhntxutDTHIZgF

QFEKdeQdZyBdFSf

He sighed to himself, noting the king’s apparent lack of compassion. If it were him, he probably couldn’t resist instructing Lord Ning to wait inside next time.pxjmtfEWtjezluIFFXWPpOZCIVJlyL

mlMCgJugyujMyLU

The study was as warm as an early spring.VIghADzasCSoVDMZpgvktZMUzTBRtV

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Li Wuting was washing his hands in a basin, casually asking, “Feeling better now?”VEYpPMRoyEbOZStJBSiGyRvnLmULsg

lUYRXRHYPDuBxAk

Ning Rushen, gradually warming up, comfortably squinted his eyes, “Thanks to Your Majesty, much better.”uYDwCgBWEppuTvXcgrltNtHOxSkMRB

hCKYBNWrmAGBUde

The sound of water stopped.iAvLPNTGsztHetcEsDVubGoNvtRMdJ

QjbbFYpYdLKOAVb

Then, a flicker of discomfort seemed to pass across Li Wuting’s handsome face, “Hmm.”JWZNaCnASabwQyDBnminFkUerspjYP

IBWBlVntdCztlXs

Ning Rushen: …?UQqwUpLXTMMWRLMWRgUJdIUSlnhBaG

GSkcGzihcEoTTbf

He wondered if Li Wuting’s tone carried any sarcasm.QYiadYRtFXUGIPCfvlKDuLDgHgiyMe

YbyZZfQryqflQgH

Suspicious, he scrutinized Li Wuting, who, however, did not speak further but simply sat down, lifting his robe slightly, and began to read through his documents.oliVobjkFcwRRYvqbMRahrSoZWqnWH

pqaezGSBuBvqDCW

Since Li Wuting did not call for him, Ning Rushen quietly stood by.rCgSQQpnEYxBnrpInqmBFkDzxiwbmK

WgidubkJlqyfJAf

Time slipped away unnoticed in the imperial study, remarkably quiet except for the sound of pages turning.VyagFlShlHnvmGNTObtjpvkybiRsFX

GHpeGFXWPNkKTQo

De Quan seemed already accustomed to the silence, occasionally replacing the tea with a fresh, hot one without making any other sound.DjkSXEpoqyFczkaQjjhZvssnuKUlEP

OUgvdOLqSbRwtte

Ning Rushen stood until his legs became numb and his head dizzy.OfVSQmmUKbFAumNlprOOQzREXevLIY

nWgDJVRpCUKYfAw

He genuinely couldn’t grasp the reason behind Li Wuting’s insistence on having him serve in his presence daily—uyiWFXzicKKWZJvEeseBNOOJsQmUFV

EAxMLyarCipxxSH

Was it to have him dressed in red, standing before the desk as a charm against evil?MHsXLKgyEirAmyKqgGAWkhgVfWMQmS

uFrKLagRssiNUFg

He stood motionless for a while, then thoughts of Secretary Geng began to preoccupy him, gradually staring into the void… until his body swayed, and he stumbled a half step due to not standing firmly.JjUTGjyIZgzcKgVtcNjCdidWcSuNfT

cPFeGrwOdRoFbej

Click, a soft sound.WQKKGLdLlTivMAloHDhZMAhVViRjbk

gZgDcEEPaqSPIAi

Coming back to his senses, Ning Rushen saw Li Wuting looking up from behind the desk, his calm gaze directly on him.KsNjWkqCjKojbALTuGDRTuXShlYGMK

BVWHlXhugZuIHLK

Ning Rushen moved his stiff legs and apologized, “I have been disrespectful in front of Your Majesty. Please forgive me.”qqwHpnoywvBnwJucbzLPYqcUqPcMAd

pZwZbTkUmceSHMQ

Li Wuting casually remarked, “Ning, you dare to deceive your king, what is this minor offense in comparison?”TpdwXLekDVWblVusZbfQJSeYPDOWBg

KEZfXZkxQrTgEHp

Ning Rushen: ?TlYzFbeskCoPGtpQyrcpunzPNQUNri

QiYENcXTdurqSUY

He leaned forward slightly, his eyes filled with genuine confusion, “When have I ever…”kbJqkwBrFcPClmvAcZKENjkvIQMLhY

txFhIvhWAwTaMSq

“Have I heard correctly that Lord Ning misses me so much that you find it hard to sleep at night?”fnWkEjohxBTpowQdweSMkkoeaBSFzT

OCObEujsDAdBMMB

“…” Ning Rushen’s gaze momentarily shifted sideways to De Quan, who sneakily buried his head. It’s you again, the big sieve.ndTHVmyNjTnMepmUpdMoirJYvrbVUM

rWXfjPJFWZKxjpt

Li Wuting’s voice turned cold, “Flattery comes easily to your lips.”CAOyBgjRAUoGqPvTNqIFstCANcEVdf

XrbzbPlDrHWUCQT

Ning Rushen quickly moistened his lips, gently defending himself, “Every word I speak is true. Indeed, I did not sleep all night. Your Majesty can inquire with the steward of my household if you do not believe me.”qNNeCHhgYQNlyXqCvIcmDeGSyXHkpX

vujcodtbadfgjju

Li Wuting almost laughed in irritation, “You blame your sleepless night on me—” His speech halted suddenly. After a delicate pause of two breaths, he changed the subject, “Come here and grind ink for me.”qCAzhWxVWlnRUYMPLwJbIfpevklyKF

NznTPUvTSsZnruP

“?”OhEAysSCrRhYNlNbLmKpKvkXlSdfKE

wpZoXGDCvPDjfxM

The troublesome topic was subtly bypassed.ZepFrBxazqIIHFoKxYNwILWFdqSWvn

mckSQaTulswGVFO

Ning Rushen blinked, “Yes.”SYopLbXUybljmQYzuAKCqpXuaBmFkS

pphtOEkFGmHCTlF

The inkstone placed on the imperial desk was a rare gem, and the ink stick was of the expensive Tongyan Hui ink, worth a small fortune in itself.KSqZpQPsDdKZsKOMqznmMDNAgnsekx

mRucyeKyApTmIvJ

Ning Rushen’s technique in grinding the ink was not particularly skilled.midSrGXUvawIACBhrcdhhSdygKUJJS

SyqSCzdYeomNrAw

However, his fingers were beautifully shaped, long and jade-like. As he lifted his sleeve to hold the ink stick, the sight was pleasing to the eye.PZMSGbFbXucTSqhvWbyoAjNqygKkjS

qDvvweJSSukzeQF

Unfortunately, the person being served seemed to lack appreciation.RAavrBhDsrXfKmQCjBQonPoTaBBzwI

DmCaEbpmJpfBqCa

After Li Wuting had summoned him, he buried himself back into his work at the desk, without uttering a word related to the court’s affairs, not even allowing Ning Rushen a glance at the memorials in his hand.lgpzZoqOYNLDKLhxduOvGOcaPpZqwC

ETAiGSHKEWZIdPe

Ning Rushen, while grinding the ink, swept his gaze over the memorials on the desk.bSllDfRbbaQAtINCpmlOuouFPFatzm

SdZvshGzUWjBedg

He was sneakily peeking when he suddenly caught sight of the words “Ministry of Revenue,” “Geng Yue,” and “corruption and malpractice.”aRIVsGCgojpubhZbdsGOIrCIKxltmT

KclkACPyoummShG

Indeed, it was a severe impeachment.pjAkicYAgKAmzbzLZcqTeGjEhbLfxL

jcftgyYFQOMtKai

Looking at Li Wuting’s comments, it seemed a verdict had not yet been reached. However, if Minister Geng couldn’t produce the required silver and explanations, it would likely be hard to convince the public, and sooner or later, imprisonment would be inevitable…NMOEmOMclGdPKfUsGsbySeEBfssubZ

SooBMASLermLgxY

Ning Rushen became so engrossed that he lost himself in the documents.EXxlgGeYUgWaaCLWFurjByRIoTNmGD

YmZjgfjtXXspGzM

Li Wuting had been turning a blind eye, for he had placed the man under his close watch to see what he would do.CeNUcTRXXnxcjLYfULUFtzGCqQjhPV

wXSnZTWbrcsDgeA

Yet, he hadn’t expected such brazen behavior.fcnGNuqGiSMjObANjSCclUscGzBYKm

rBYrMtBBLopTiIf

Perhaps to get a clearer view, Ning Rushen even turned his head halfway around, almost reaching out to pull the memorial towards him!cBjgZcwesmsroPovogoznypxIztAOs

wnlWMCKoLthullt

“…” Li Wuting chuckled lowly, “Ning Chen.”ZVifhjxsNCTgIgYlcKUzcFogFJpPnr

lTSYewrbqdExJYx

Ning Rushen snapped back to reality, lifting his gaze to meet the direct and imposing look of the King.HyEFGgvcFnWbtKglIICQavYPpSjMUg

AOilvDhkspjRnBJ

His heart skipped a beat, and he prostrated himself, saying, “Your servant has overstepped his bounds.”cjILfLWSCNApDPIrsYhUHRgncloiph

kveelYYqwJTsHQI

Silence ensued across the room.VWjZlxiJeIhnWchLmBdNFoYPjRinbl

zAzjgXDEgKcGSpo

Ning Rushen knelt beside the imperial desk, his gaze fixed on the cold, hard corner of the table and the thick carpet beneath. His breathing was slightly hurried, pondering over how to craft a clever defense, when suddenly, a soft “snap” sounded.vyirEEFFUlpKtAZliwFUQwTFAysJve

cBXIvfyyrmnWTIq

The memorandum had been thrown before him, the black text stark against the white paper.guemkbQdMsZVcAGTMDnjvXqeYkTbiu

IbfBCXgmFodERKN

Ning Rushen looked up, “Your Majesty?”pALmxSDRexWAfpblokSCOEJRfcCDfd

AtKQJHHICcGmtGv

“What do you wish to see?” Li Wuting’s gaze was lowered towards him, his tone calm, “I permit you to look.”gqalVBHwptUCIWFnhwMJXrFdnawdEy

iiMDQgpkDfdkxnI

A sense of alarm rose within Ning Rushen:RwOvUYaoWfsfDHCtGgXKWfEbbupINX

tJVabqfgfWBjdby

When the emperor is silent, he is surely laying a trap.OOiQMSczTrTzAElpwBupHaJFUepQlE

zJpozCMkjeLBcah

He pushed the memorandum slightly, “Your servant dares not…”eErRPpaKTvWavKdPqYQvqoAmemIYqC

kKYoMgdmmBDqHXE

“Look.”TbltufbjPvUHSANBlfIcIttMjPZLLu

ujDahFOpnWOKYBl

De Quan, standing a few steps away, was already drenched in cold sweat, not daring to utter a single word.moahdqVAOVZQcldTSTsiexyHdgsYnu

sdhINbLNLoEWIpt

Ning Rushen, “…”YDaMUQAWfOzlZmXHvEpqGMNCswFFJs

jrEhfLYRrbPyfes

Fine, since you insist.inQOBWQgKgsCeMuXrbCIhMVkkkyytW

ycbStJGFoRdCKOo

“Your servant obeys.” He gracefully pulled the memorandum back, straightened his back, and sat on the ground to scrutinize it thoroughly.KaTyesppcJrKXxYGlMiyVkrcoaaLGa

BgrZgFZxjMOmKbK

The content of the memorandum was almost as he had glimpsed earlier, primarily accusing Geng Yue of corruption, accepting bribes, and embezzlement, meriting punishment by confiscation of property and exile—zvxDnOSLjRRCnKoRqEVvqJFDPFirXg

IfMjqvAjFRvIvrs

“To serve as a warning and to uphold integrity.”OmNxPcmDkgPCxapOZGWSaCOupZEPYu

EIKXzviDeoQZuxj

The bold ink strokes caught Ning Rushens eye, prompting him to purse his lips.VIYUFdIaCIUTVhDeIzXSQlCrAOArhu

yQynJarqqtMncdp

“Have you finished reading?” The emperor’s voice descended from above.QTIapeazaqKlzHoNxiljuhIwPsitTe

dnYkMhYsEEsBCax

Holding the document, Ning Rushen looked up, his mind still somewhat in turmoil. He met Li Wuting’s gaze and softly hummed in affirmation.VzoZKusEzhAmTYDMzJIcNqknZOhjEi

vrdKXfMJsowihdS

The scene appeared somewhat improper: a young official kneeling before the emperor, his black hair and scarlet robe spread out on the ground, holding the memorandum without even a hint of formal address.ECMEfJbvDSGmbzETFsiCicvUxUWhVb

KvzBWGanICtrlkL

But Ning Rushen, the person in question, seemed unaware of the impropriety.ZmXnyGCLPGkmaEltHslOWGNUbIdFYW

YMQpCLFHSmXkYVC

Li Wuting, as the emperor, didn’t seem to focus on this either.dejNttXnnvmluQXeSaGtFvqOgwvJNE

QWUkQERbidNfIKn

His deep gaze penetrated into Ning Rushen’s clear yet slightly dazed eyes, and suddenly he spoke, “I’ve heard that Lord Ning is quite close to Secretary Geng’s son, discussing matters without avoidance of personal bias…”wYhxkDRJlfzWZksLGXYOieDvVKRnLD

krOAGFnWOSPbLnn

Ning Rushen snapped back to attention, meeting Li Wuting’s gaze: So?QespxJquOiZUlqHzjoilsMnhKIMiyL

FYYiarbZKjEpALc

Li Wuting leisurely looked at him, “Why don’t you tell me, how should I deal with Secretary Geng?”GeEeIYlxiNAtJNleEXyWgPDpkewPCA

lGujxinbzkIcyQX

“…”nUlnTFRhfagntSOqwyiWvcNFlabpMi

xANtwjEoaDCzJVJ
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MFPZXMQyPwHXsXoEIvcKsILZvhuziH

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