The powerful minister's obstruction reveals his early talent.
After Shen Qingci joined the Hanlin Academy, he buried himself in old papers every day, compiling national history and drafting imperial edicts, doing each task meticulously and properly. He was not only erudite but also had unique insights. Several of his annotations on the advantages and disadvantages of the court were presented to the emperor by his superiors, which won the emperor's appreciation. In just over a month, he began to stand out in the Hanlin Academy.
The tree may wish to be still, but the wind will not cease. His uprightness and ambition ultimately angered the treacherous clique led by Prime Minister Li Linfu. Li Linfu, having held the position for a long time, had formed cliques and engaged in corrupt practices; half the officials in the court were subservient to him, and he was intolerant of dissent. Shen Qingci, a rising star who refused to associate with him, was nothing less than a thorn in his side.
After the court session ended that day, Li Linfu's steward waited outside the Hanlin Academy and bowed, saying, "Lord Shen, my Prime Minister invites you to a banquet at his residence to discuss state affairs."
Shen Qingci understood that Li Linfu's move, ostensibly to "discuss state affairs," was actually an attempt to win him over. Although he was unwilling to associate with treacherous officials, he could not refuse directly due to the Prime Minister's power, so he could only nod and say, "Please wait a moment, Steward, while I change my clothes and go with you."
The Prime Minister's residence boasted towering vermilion gates and deep courtyards. Inside the banquet hall, lights shone brightly, and delicacies from land and sea were laid out on the tables, accompanied by the incessant sounds of string and wind instruments. Li Linfu sat upright in the main seat, dressed in a purple official robe, his face beaming with smiles, but his gaze held a scrutinizing quality: "Scholar Shen is young and promising, and in such a short time he has gained the Emperor's favor. His future is limitless."
"You flatter me, Prime Minister," Shen Qingci said, bowing respectfully. His tone was humble yet measured. "I have only been doing my duty and have not dared to be negligent in the slightest."
Li Linfu raised his wine cup, gesturing for Shen Qingci to drink: "Scholar Shen, there's no need for such modesty. I have always admired talent, and seeing such a pillar of the state as you fills me with great joy. If you are willing to submit to me, I guarantee you will be promoted to the third rank within three years, and you will be able to establish a firm foothold in the court, with no one daring to bully you."
The wine swirled in the glass, reflecting the greed and arrogance in Li Linfu's eyes. Shen Qingci felt a chill run down his spine, slowly put down the wine glass, and stood up solemnly, saying, "I am deeply grateful for the Prime Minister's kindness. However, I have been taught since childhood that an official should prioritize the country and the people, and I dare not let personal matters interfere with public duty or get involved in factional disputes."
"Oh?" Li Linfu's smile vanished instantly, and his tone turned serious. "Does Scholar Shen think that I can't accommodate you here? Or do you believe that you can go far in the court based solely on your talent?"
"I dare not belittle myself, nor do I dare to curry favor with the powerful," Shen Qingci said firmly. "I only wish to be a dutiful and honest official, serving the court and bringing benefits to the people. As for my future, Your Majesty will make the wise decision, and the people will witness it."
Li Linfu slammed his hand on the table, causing the wine cups on it to shake and spill wine: "What a fine example of integrity and incorruptibility! Scholar Shen, you should think carefully. In this court, without a powerful backer, you can't move an inch! Today you've rejected me, but don't regret it later!"
"Your mind is made up, and I have no regrets." Shen Qingci bowed and said, "Thank you for your hospitality, Prime Minister. I have official duties to attend to, so I must take my leave now."
Having said that, he turned and left, completely ignoring Li Linfu's ashen face and angry glare behind him. Stepping out of the Prime Minister's residence, the night breeze dispelled the extravagance of the banquet hall. Shen Qingci felt a sense of relief, but he also knew that his refusal today had placed him on the opposite side of Li Linfu, and his future career would likely be fraught with difficulties and obstacles.
But as he gazed at the bright moonlight on the horizon, his conviction grew stronger: even if the road ahead was full of thorns, he would remain true to himself, act uprightly and honestly, and never bow down to wicked people.
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