Transmigration: Space-Aided Rise to Power and Prosperity

Chapter 963 - 799: Go Back to Farming

"Another position in the Chamberlain’s Office can be filled by one more person. Chou Yifan from the Hanlin Academy as the Assistant Reader handles tasks steadily. I am appointing him to the Chamberlain’s Office to assist with administrative duties alongside Gu Aiqing."Chou Yifan was just feeling envious of Gu Chengyu’s good fortune, but unexpectedly, the Emperor called his name next, startling him.

Gu Chengyu’s closeness to the Crown Prince naturally promised many benefits.

But being an official under the Eldest Prince, the Emperor’s decision put him in a difficult position.

Once appointed by the Emperor, even if unwilling, he had no choice but to accept the decree and express gratitude.

"The Chamberlain role will be concurrently held by Vice Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Zhang Shuo. He Jisheng of the Ministry of Rites will replace as Chamberlain. Another worthy candidate for Minister of the Ministry of Rites is yet to be decided. The remaining officials will be listed by the Ministry of Personnel for my review."

The Emperor made final decisions, appointing people to several key positions.

He Jisheng glanced at Gu Chengyu, feeling elated in his heart.

Being close to the Crown Prince means he can quickly deliver any information to him.

Even if he doesn’t succeed in the future, with the Crown Prince’s backing, how could his future not be bright?

At this moment, He Jisheng entertained the idea of playing both sides, his greed showing. He thought others were fools, but both Princes were no pushovers, easily tricked by him?

Zhang Shuo’s expression remained calm; his mentor said that since the Second Prince became the Crown Prince, he would rightfully ascend the throne in the future.

Aligning with the Crown Prince was proper, to avoid unrest among officials leaning towards his mentor.

Although his mentor’s skills were vast, he would ultimately have to obey the new Emperor in the future.

Better to pledge allegiance now; although not a heroic act, not purely opportunistic either?

Moreover, his mentor was already old, while he was young and ought to choose a side. Even as his mentor hesitated, he felt compelled to act.

Aligning now was not too late.

Zhang Shuo considered his mentor’s actions strange, as choosing a wise ruler to assist would be better than a loyal minister route?

Why did his mentor delay until now to show this intention?

If the Emperor were fully trusting of his mentor, he could understand not switching allegiances early.

However, the Emperor clearly mistrusted his mentor, favoring Gu Chengyu instead. Yet his mentor remained loyal to the Emperor, only now forced to choose the Crown Prince, puzzling Zhang Shuo greatly.

Knowing his mentor well, he didn’t seem unresourceful.

Suppressing doubts for now, Zhang Shuo accepted the decree with gratitude.

"Since childhood, the Crown Prince wasn’t raised by my side. Now, as Crown Prince, his words and actions ought to set an example, speaking and acting with caution. Therefore, I have found him a teacher to guide him, so that he may become a wise ruler in the future!"

The Emperor’s words caused an uproar in the court, with officials speculating who he would choose as the Crown Prince’s teacher.

Being appointed the Crown Prince’s Master was a valuable opportunity to get close to him.

This relationship meant that once the Crown Prince ascended, he’d hold the prestigious title of First-Grade Grandmaster! What an esteemed position!

Only a person of high virtue and repute could fulfill the Crown Prince’s Master role. Few in the court fit this criterion.

Everyone’s eyes were naturally on Xia Qing; who better than him for the role?

After all, Xia Qing was the foremost Grand Secretary, and of suitable age. If the Emperor chose him, no one would object.

With his position established, no other courtiers would dare voice dissent.

Officials of Second and Third Rank were hopeful that such an honor could fall to them.

Even Xia Qing couldn’t help but survey the ministers, feeling nobody was more qualified than himself.

All eyes gathered on Xia Qing, and though he was used to staying composed, internally he felt proud, subtly showing on his face.

Amidst the anticipation of Xia Qing and the ministers, the Emperor finally announced the choice.

"Following Liang Zhirui’s retirement, he has been teaching at the Jingyuan Prefecture School, dedicated to educating. Also, he’s upright and knowledgeable—I believe he is the best choice. What do the esteemed ministers think?"

The court fell silent as no one expected the Emperor to appoint the retired Liang Zhirui.

The Eldest Prince glanced at Gu Chengyu, interpreting the move.

Might there have been a deal between Gu Chengyu and the Emperor? Otherwise, why was the position given to Liang Zhirui?

Could it be to counterbalance Xia Qing? If Liang Zhirui possessed such abilities, he wouldn’t have been edged out by Xia Qing before.

The Crown Prince’s feelings were mixed, sensing a lack of trust.

Feigning delight outwardly, he inwardly felt bitterness, though he couldn’t express it.

Every faction placed an official in the Chamberlain’s Office, Gu Chengyu included.

He clearly saw the Emperor’s intent but couldn’t act on it!

Gu Chengyu was to monitor him, reporting daily activities to the Emperor.

The Emperor killed two birds with one stone, not only keeping him in check but ensuring Gu Chengyu didn’t defect, fostering a rift between them.

Indeed, age brings wisdom!

Prince Jing was surprised, not expecting Gu Chengyu’s loyalty. Had he known, he would have worked with Liang Zhirui earlier.

It’s regrettable he miscalculated, aiming to mend ties now, as the mentor and student had no reason to favor him.

Regretful, Prince Jing thought of future strategies, knowing Gu Chengyu’s support increased chances of ultimate success.

"Your Majesty! I believe this decision unwise. Mr. Liang has been away from the court for years and may be ill-suited. Moreover, his advanced age might hinder contributions if reinstated."

Vice Minister Peng Yuhao of the Ministry of Industry stepped forward, a supporter of Xia Qing.

Gu Chengyu watched without immediate rebuttal, fool!

Advanced age? Could it rival the Emperor’s? A dangerous remark!

Indeed, the Emperor’s countenance darkened instantly, an ominous sight!

"Advanced age? Should we retire all elder ministers, sending them to farm?"

The Emperor’s expression twisted slightly as Gu Chengyu felt satisfaction, watching Peng Yuhao demean his teacher.

His actions provoking issues for elder ministers, not needing Gu Chengyu’s involvement.