Chapter 1931: Chapter 1928: Speculation

Couldn’t help but wonder what caused Chu Heng to offend Emperor Xuanming, not only being demoted but also hearing words of distrust from the emperor.

As a scholar, Chu Heng held a lucrative position in the Ministry of Revenue, and it was clear he was set to enter the cabinet in the future.

It’s just that he was too young, and his official rank was always suppressed, yet the power he possessed was not insignificant.

Now a scholar is transferred to the Ministry of War, a yamen full of military officials. The Ministry’s power was already securely established, and it relied on military achievements for authority over subordinates. Isn’t this a subtle demotion, sidestepping Chu Heng’s influence?

"My love, you’ve arranged these things well. The Dowager Empress hasn’t been in good health these years, and tomorrow’s palace banquet will burden you. I’ll assign a few competent people to assist you. You must start learning such matters."

"Yes, I thank Your Majesty for your concern. I certainly won’t let the emperor be disappointed." Deng Jieyu confirmed the palace banquet’s procedures and indeed had no time to accompany Emperor Xuanming. As she hurriedly left, she signaled to a Palace Attendant working in the Imperial Study.

The Palace Attendant nodded with downcast eyes.

Before long, the palace lady beside Deng Jieyu caught up with her, whispering quietly.

"So King of Huainan has returned."

"Go, inform others of this news."

"Yes." The Palace Attendant withdrew.

Deng Jieyu curled her lips, her face flashing a meaningful smile.

Meanwhile, as Chu Heng exited the palace, exhaustion was evident on his face, and word of his reassignment had spread, becoming known across the court.

At this critical juncture, Chu Heng’s demotion inevitably made fellow ministers ponder the underlying reasons.

"Did the emperor really punish Chu Heng because of Deng Jieyu?" Minister Qi, seated in the tea house, was shocked upon hearing the news, almost shattering his teacup.

He was well aware of Emperor Xuanming’s trust in Chu Heng. How could he suddenly abandon such a valuable confidant, especially after Xiao Tianhao, another confidant, was dealt with, quickly followed by Chu Heng.

These two have had the closest relationship with Emperor Xuanming over the past few months.

"Uncle, do you mean that father is pretending to show everyone?" King Qi was puzzled, unsure.

Most of his connections were in Jiangnan, hence King Qi’s mansion lacked no silver, but in the capital, obtaining news relied more on Minister Qi and the network of Qi Residence.

"That’s not right. Showing it so blatantly doesn’t seem like something the emperor would do." Minister Qi didn’t answer but stroked his chin, pondering what changes this situation would bring.

Chu Heng entered the Ministry of War.

In usual terms, as long as he had Emperor Xuanming’s trust, his accomplishments came easily.

Now, stripped of imperial trust, entering the Ministry of War would be extremely challenging, and currently, it’s hard to tell what Chu Heng can accomplish.

Yet King of Huainan has returned, and he’s visiting the capital to report and pay homage because of the need to escort the Beirong Prince, bringing with him five thousand elite soldiers.

These soldiers will be stationed in camps outside the city, and they cannot enter the capital without an edict.

These elite soldiers need someone to liaise with them.

Surely, the Ministry of War will handle these matters.

Chu Heng, new to the Ministry of War, has no qualifications to intervene in this matter.

The more Minister Qi pondered, the more his head ached, completely unaware of Emperor Xuanming’s intentions.

A wrong guess could have significant impacts on the shift in dynamics.

King Qi raised his teacup and took a sip: "Father is human too, and humans can’t bear being overly constrained. Let’s wait and watch."

Not only Minister Qi, but Elder Zhong, Lord Huo also pondered.

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