Hongshi, realizing his tone had been rather harsh earlier, and seeing that his Eighth Uncle hadn't taken offense and was even so polite, quickly explained, "What are you saying, Eighth Uncle? It was I who was rude. I didn't know the carriage belonged to you, and I was in a hurry, which led to the misunderstanding. I am extremely grateful that you are not angry with me..."
After saying that, he instructed his driver to get down and help, while he and Eighth Master stepped aside to chat...
Fourth Prince had always kept Eighth Prince out of politics, giving him a sinecure in the Ministry of Works. However, he was still quite aware of the trends in the previous dynasty. He asked with feigned surprise, "It's getting late. What are you busy with?"
Hongshi didn't think much of it and smiled, "It's about the imperial examination. Father Emperor ordered me to be in charge of this exam. I just came out of the Hall of Mental Cultivation and am rushing back to change and get some clothes. The Imperial Academy is arranging for the grading..."
Eighth Master suddenly realized: "So that's how it is. The younger generation has all grown up and become capable. I, Eighth Uncle, am truly humbled..."
Hongshi bowed and said, "Uncle, you flatter me. You were truly capable when you were young. My grandfather always valued you highly, and I often heard him talk about you when I was little. Back then, you were the one we admired the most..."
Upon hearing this, Eighth Master chuckled and patted Hongshi on the shoulder, saying, "You silly boy, you've got a sweet tongue. If only your Eighth Uncle's son were half as sensible as you..."
As he spoke, Eighth Master couldn't help but sized up Hongshi. Despite his young age, he possessed a dignified appearance, a commanding presence, and an extraordinary air about him. His face was sculpted with distinct, angular features, making him handsome and dashing. He didn't resemble Fourth Master much, but rather his birth mother. Hongshi was Fourth Master's third son, and now, as the eldest, he naturally received Fourth Master's attention.
Eighth Master thought of his own son, who was now fifteen or sixteen years old, yet had accomplished nothing. Compared to Hongshi, he was utterly insignificant, and his disappointment was evident, though his words were filled with admiration for Hongshi.
"Hongshi, you are so different now, your Eighth Uncle is very pleased. I watched you grow up when you were a child, and I am happy that you have become so successful. As the Emperor's eldest son, the responsibilities on your shoulders are naturally different from those of other princes. Your Eighth Uncle has high expectations for you..." Eighth Prince praised Hongshi with a smile.
Hongshi hadn't heard anyone praise him like that in a long time, and he was overjoyed, becoming somewhat carried away with his pride.
“Eighth Uncle, my younger brother is still young and doesn’t understand things. Once I, as his older brother, have a stable position in the palace, I will naturally find ways to help him…” Hongshi glanced at the Eighth Prince’s expression and continued, “Since Eighth Uncle has taken a liking to his nephew, his nephew will naturally not forget his younger brother…”
Eighth Master's expression froze for a moment, then he quickly recovered and said with a smile, "That's wonderful. If you can help me in the future, I won't have to worry about your brother's affairs..."
Hongshi smiled and said, "Right now, I'm just learning under my thirteenth uncle in the Ministry of Revenue, and I don't have the ability yet. But once I can make a name for myself in the Ministry of Revenue, my brother's affairs will be my affairs..."
Eighth Prince nodded, and tightened his grip on Hongli's shoulder. Hongshi knew that Eighth Prince understood his meaning, and exchanged a glance with Eighth Prince.
Eighth Prince leaned closer to Hongshi and whispered, "Although your uncle doesn't participate in court affairs, he's still a son. This is the best time for you to seize the opportunity. The Emperor has seen everything you've done, and he won't forget you when he makes his decision..."
Hearing what Eighth Master said, Hongshi felt much more at ease, knowing that Eighth Master was on his side. He smiled and thanked him, "Thank you for the reminder, Eighth Uncle. I will need your help in the future..."
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