Although the controversy surrounding "public opinion" has been temporarily suppressed, many people are still in a wait-and-see state.

The Yuan family.

Upon seeing the two brothers, Yuan Cheng and Yuan Wei, who had suddenly arrived, Yuan Feng seemed to have guessed their purpose. The three of them then went into the study.

After taking their seats, the usually composed Yuan Wei couldn't wait to ask, "Brother, you haven't participated in the recent 'public opinion' discussions, have you?"

Yuan Feng glanced at Yuan Wei and said with a smile, "Do you think I'm such an unwise person?"

"Uh, that's good!"

Yuan Wei was somewhat embarrassed. This "public opinion" seemed to have little impact, but if he got involved, it would be difficult to get out later.

Yuan Feng smiled and said, "Some people have approached me, but I refused them. To put it bluntly, that would be a game against the emperor, which is not a good thing for the Yuan family right now."

“Yes! Brother is right. The Emperor has finally eliminated the eunuchs. How can he allow the court to fall into strife again? Those people are so short-sighted. They deserve to be in trouble.”

Yuan Wei nodded in relief, showing disdain for the petty tricks some people were up to.

Yuan Cheng stroked his beard and said, "That's right. Although the emperor has retained many officials who had previously served the eunuchs, and their moral character may be somewhat flawed, their ability to govern a region is indeed stronger than that of the upright Confucian scholars."

Furthermore, His Majesty has recently promoted many people from humble backgrounds. While this may be intended to elevate those from lower social classes and balance the court, it must be said that the people chosen by the Emperor are indeed quite capable.

Yuan Wei nodded: "I have met those students before, and in terms of both talent and ability, they are no less than the disciples of our clan."

"As you have said, His Majesty has appointed two younger members of the Zhong and Chen families, and summoned Xun Ciming to serve as Minister of Justice. Is His Majesty perhaps trying to win over and divide the gentry?" Yuan Cheng asked with some doubt.

Hmm! Maybe!

Yuan Feng was a little unsure, then looked at Yuan Wei and asked, "Ciming, what do you think?"

Yuan Wei thought for a moment and said, "There must be a reason for this. This is a common tactic used by those in power. I'm sure you two brothers can see that His Majesty is a diligent and hardworking person. Whether it's the Zhong family, the Chen family, or the Xun family, His Majesty values ​​their abilities first and foremost."

Yuan Feng said, "That's right. For a family to prosper for a long time, in addition to connections and disciples, the most important thing is the cultivation of the family's children. It is not an isolated case that an outstanding child can bring prosperity to a family."

The three brothers then discussed the future development of the Yuan family. They all felt that this was an opportunity, as the young emperor was eager to strengthen the nation and would definitely need all kinds of talented people.

The Yuan family has no shortage of outstanding members. As long as they are capable, they will surely rise to prominence. There is really no need to use those means to fight against the imperial power. Moreover, the emperor now has the support of the Zhong, Chen, and Xun families, plus Sima Fang, who was recently appointed as the Palace Attendant. It is uncertain whether they will gain any advantage by going head-to-head with the emperor.

To sum it up in one sentence: I don't care who becomes the county magistrate, as long as I can be the county magistrate's wife.

...

Deyang Palace.

"Yuan Chang, how's the construction of the Imperial Guard going?"

"Your Majesty, those powerful landlords have been very enthusiastic in contributing money and labor. Now that most of it is complete, it should be finished soon!"

Liu Hong nodded in satisfaction. He was pleased with the construction speed; in any era, nothing is impossible if you're willing to invest money.

"That's good then. Zhi Cai and Yuan Chang will be in charge of selecting the trainees. Those who contribute money and effort can be given preferential treatment..."

"promise!"

Then Liu Hong looked at Wang Yue beside him and asked, "Master Wang, what do you think of that Yuan family lad?"

"Humble and polite, extremely filial to his mother, and resilient in character, he is a promising talent!"

"In that case, the royal army will go there in person and enroll him in the Imperial Guard as a Yulin Lang."

"promise!"

After Wang Yue left, Xi Zhicai looked at Liu Hong and said, "Your Majesty, what about that Cao family boy? I think he is quick-witted, resourceful, and meticulous. His talent may even surpass that of the Yuan family boy."

"Is Zhicai referring to Cao Cao?"

Liu Hong gave Xi Zhicai a meaningful look.

“Indeed, does His Majesty not like this child?” Xi Zhicai, feeling somewhat uncomfortable under Liu Hong’s gaze, asked.

"No, but this kid is too frivolous. If we improve him too easily, he might become arrogant. Let's give him a normal assessment!"

"Your Majesty is right!"

In the south of Luoyang, at the entrance of a somewhat secluded courtyard, a carriage bearing the insignia of the Yuan family was parked.

Inside the courtyard, Yuan Feng calmly looked at Yuan Shao kneeling on the ground.

"We've been out for a while now, it's about time to head back!"

Hearing his father's extremely calm words, Yuan Shao felt a chill in his heart and stubbornly shook his head.

“My son and mother left the Yuan family and never thought of going back.”

"you....."

Looking at Yuan Shao's stubborn expression, Yuan Feng frowned and then asked in a deep voice, "Can you really bear to watch your mother suffer with you?"

"Mother, going back would be the real suffering. Besides, I believe that I will be able to gain the Emperor's favor through my own abilities and make your life better!"

Hearing his eldest son's stubborn yet confident words, Yuan Feng's eyebrows twitched slightly, but a hint of relief flashed in his eyes.

Then Yuan Feng looked at Wang Shi, who was standing to the side, and asked, "Is this your plan too?"

Yuan Shao's mother was suddenly caught in a dilemma, torn between her husband and her son. How could she choose?

After a moment, Madam Wang said, "The head of the family still has Shu'er, but I only have Shao'er."

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