Xu Churen sighed and asked, "How much money did you receive?"

"Master Xu, I have always kept your teachings in mind and have never accepted any money."

Xu Churen continued, "Very well, I will not ask you whether you received money or not. Just tell me who was involved, and I can still guarantee you a position as a county magistrate in the southwest."

"Thank you, Master Xu!"

Yao Zhen wished he could kowtow until his head bled.

He was an Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Personnel, a fifth-rank official. More importantly, he was a central government official, wielding far more power than some fourth-rank prefects.

Now that he's being watched by the Inspectorate, he's lucky to be alive, let alone be able to go to the southwest to be a county magistrate. He's already very satisfied.

Yao Zhen then picked up a pen and wrote down a list, clearly explaining the background of each item.

Not long after, He Liming arrived at the Hall of State Affairs.

In the past, a brute like He Liming was not qualified to come to the Hall of State Affairs. Even the emperor's personal guards would never enter the Hall of State Affairs unless there was something particularly important.

The Hall of State Affairs was a vital part of the Eastern Prefecture and the residence of the prime minister of the Great Song Dynasty.

But this time, He Liming came.

"This humble servant pays his respects to Minister Xu."

"Commander He, what brings you here?"

"Please invite Officer Yao to the Censorate."

"Master Xu, save me!"

"How about we bring Imperial Censor Liu to our Council of State Affairs?"

He Liming said, "Lord Xu, I have no right to interfere in your matter with Liu Yusi. I am merely acting on the Emperor's orders. According to the rules, I should take Yao Shangguan to the Censorate."

After all, Yao Zhen was his confidant. Even though he had been tricked by him, Xu Churen, as the prime minister, needed to maintain morale and couldn't just abandon a subordinate. Moreover, this subordinate had just confessed everything.

He also promised Yao Zhen that he would help him go to the southwest to serve as a prefectural or county official.

As prime minister, one must keep one's word; otherwise, how can one gain the respect of the people?

"In that case, I will trouble Commander He. I will go with you."

"Please, my lord."