There are also some factions trying to win them over with banquets and marriage proposals. These things have both good and bad aspects, and they don't want to get involved.
The results of the palace examination were out, and Shao Ming and his companions went to the palace again. The moment that would decide their fate was about to arrive.
It was the same main hall, and the same people.
Emperor Jinghong sat at the head of the table, with other relevant ministers lined up on either side.
Yesterday, the ministers in charge of grading the exams argued endlessly about who would be awarded the top scholar title.
Each faction expressed its own opinion, each wanting to grab the benefits for itself.
The minister who could see the true nature of the matter smiled but remained silent, truly blinded by self-interest and unable to discern the intentions of those in power.
Or, you see it clearly, but you don't want to back it.
The powerful clans had existed for so long that they felt they could rival imperial power.
However, the reigning emperor was not the previous one; he was just as ruthless and decisive.
From the moment he ascended the throne, he subtly and gradually eroded the status of powerful and influential families. This wasn't just happening in the capital; so-called century-old families and prestigious clans in other places were also affected.
However, their foundations were too strong, and they didn't pay attention to the small, insignificant things that happened.
A thousand-mile dike can be breached by an ant hole.
Small things can often have unexpected effects.
The Emperor doesn't intend to weaken all the powerful clans; he simply doesn't want them to band together. Those who are truly capable and can serve the court will still be retained.
Over the past ten years, His Majesty has gradually dismantled many allied powerful families.
Looking at this year's candidates, one-third came from humble backgrounds, one-third from newly rich families, and only one-third from established scholarly families.
So they panicked.
Unfortunately, it was too late.
His Majesty has already selected the top three, and his stance is firm and will not change.
Otherwise, some of the officials standing before the palace today wouldn't have such grim faces and forced smiles.
At that time, whoever was loyal to the court and the emperor lived a comfortable life.
A new emperor brings a new court; only those who can see things clearly and let go of what's past can last.
Emperor Jinghong sat at the head of the table, taking in the behavior of everyone below and secretly chuckling to himself.
Some old scoundrels really think they're something special. The timing isn't right; otherwise, they shouldn't even think about using their age to act superior or do anything inappropriate.
The newly appointed officials were unaware of the Emperor's thoughts and the plans of the ministers. They were all nervous, wondering if they would have the opportunity to enter officialdom and what their beginnings would be like. The results were about to be revealed.
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