Chapter 117

Chapter 117

It was noon, the sun quietly slipping through thin clouds as Wen Zuo arrived punctually at the Hanlin Academy.

Just as he stepped into the official compound, a Hanlin Corrector approached him, greeting, "Chancellor, are you heading to the dining hall for your meal?"

"I've already eaten at the Eastern Palace." Wen Zuo stood tall and straight as a pine, his steps steady and demeanor dignified, showing not the slightest hint of anything amiss.

The corrector's eyes immediately filled with envy. To be one of the Three Preceptors of the Crown Prince was already an honor, but to be frequently summoned by the Crown Prince to dine at the Eastern Palace—Chancellor Wen's future prospects were truly boundless.

Just as Wen Zuo was about to enter the Chancellor's Hall, he suddenly turned back and instructed, "I will be holding a meeting after the meal. Summon the heads of all departments."

"Yes, sir!" The corrector hurriedly bowed in acknowledgment.

When the news reached the dining hall, none of the Hanlin academicians dared to delay. They hurriedly finished what was left in their bowls, hastily wiped their mouths, straightened their official robes, and hurried back to the main hall to wait.

When Wen Zuo entered the hall and saw everyone assembled neatly, a trace of satisfaction finally flickered across his otherwise expressionless face. Standing before the steps in the main hall, he cleared his throat. "You are all doubtless aware that the Hanlin Academy is to draft the examination questions for next year's Metropolitan Examination. I intend to select eight from among you to join me in determining the scope of the questions. Once the chief examiner is appointed, we will proceed to draft the questions in separate chambers."

Everyone had initially found chairs to sit in, but seeing Wen Zuo standing with his hands respectfully at his sides, his expression serious, they exchanged glances and hastily rose to their feet, apprehensively. They all wondered inwardly: Why is Chancellor Wen in such a foul temper today that he won't even sit down to discuss matters?

A perceptive compiler swiftly picked up the pearwood chair he had been sitting on, hurried over to Wen Zuo, and repeatedly wiped the seat with his sleeve, offering an ingratiating smile. "Chancellor, please have a seat. It's tiring to speak while standing."

Wen Zuo glanced at the chair out of the corner of his eye, stiffening almost imperceptibly for a moment before immediately turning his face away and saying coldly, "I will not sit. Take it away."

"..."

The compiler, embarrassed, had no choice but to sheepishly carry the chair back, feeling even more baffled by the Chancellor's intentions.

For today's discussion, Wen Zuo called for volunteers. For a full half-hour, no one in the main hall dared to sit down. Finally, eight Hanlin officials whose character and conduct met his approval were selected.

With the main agenda finally settled, those eight followed Wen Zuo to the eastern chamber of the Chancellor's Hall to continue discussing the scope of the examination questions in detail.

They had just barely touched the edges of their chairs when they saw Wen Zuo pick up a copy of *The Spring and Autumn Annals* from the desk, walk slowly to the doorway, and lean casually against the doorframe to bask in the sun. His posture was quite relaxed, yet pointedly refused to sit down.

Seeing this, everyone hurriedly stood up again in unison, standing with their hands respectfully at their sides.

Wen Zuo frowned, sweeping a glance over them. "Sit, all of you. Why are you standing?"

In unison, they replied, "Chancellor, you sit first. Please, you sit first."

Wen Zuo's lips tightened into a straight line. "I'm not tired. I'm just sunning myself."

They exchanged glances. "We are not tired either. We'll just keep the Chancellor company while sunning ourselves!"

Wen Zuo: "..."

He had never seen these people be so observant before!

Not two days later, Liu Chenming finalized the list of candidates for chief examiner. He deliberately made a belated effort to mend his oversight by placing Wen Zuo's name at the top of the list.

The list, via the Directorate of Ceremonial's seal-holding eunuch Liu Quan, was presented at the bedside of Emperor Shunyuan.

Emperor Shunyuan had been running a high fever for days, his body growing increasingly weak. The imperial physicians adjusted his medicinal decoctions to stabilize his condition, but there was still no sign of improvement.

Lying on soft pillows now, covered with a thick cotton quilt and warmed by a brazier, he slowly opened his eyes upon hearing movement. His gaze was clouded for a moment before he finally made out the memorial held in Liu Quan's hands. He then closed his eyes and sighed softly. "So it's time for the imperial examinations again. This will likely be the last examination of the Shunyuan Dynasty."

Upon hearing this, Liu Quan was so frightened he immediately knelt, his voice carrying genuine distress as he said, "Your Majesty cares deeply for the myriad subjects, diligently attending to governance day and night. Heaven witnesses Your Majesty's benevolence and virtue and will surely bless Your Majesty with long life, enduring fortune, and a century of peace and health!"

Emperor Shunyuan chuckled lowly twice. The laughter stirred his lungs, provoking two muffled coughs that left his face pale.

"In my youth, I was engrossed in seeking immortality and the Dao, traveling the four seas to visit reclusive masters. Only in my twilight years have I come to a clearer understanding. There are no immortals in this world who can fathom the workings of creation and help people achieve perfection. I warned myself long ago that I must not, out of fear in my old age, repeat the mistakes of my predecessors by lightly trusting the deceptive words of sorcerers and bringing calamity upon the people."

"Your Majesty!" Liu Quan dared only to utter this address, not daring to say more.

The predecessor Emperor Shunyuan spoke of was his father, Emperor Kangzhen.

In his later years, after the tragic death of his eldest son and with his own brothers coveting the throne, Emperor Kangzhen's temperament grew increasingly unpredictable. He favored a certain sorcerer, neglected state affairs, and caused everyone to live in fear and trepidation.

Emperor Shunyuan had lived his entire life under Emperor Kangzhen's strict tutelage. Only at the end of his own life did he dare, in private conversation, to reveal a hint of rebellious sentiment.

"Read the list to me," Emperor Shunyuan waved his hand, cutting off the dangerous topic.

Liu Quan did not dare to delay. He hurriedly unrolled the memorial and read it out clearly, word by word.

There were six names in total, read quickly. After listening, Emperor Shunyuan stared straight up at the caisson ceiling above, remaining silent for a long while.

Being the chief examiner for the Metropolitan Examination was an immense honor in the eyes of scholars across the land.

The *jinshi* who passed this examination would automatically acknowledge Wen Zuo as their mentor. In the future, when they entered the court as officials, they would naturally become his allies. Emperor Shunyuan's move was, in a way, tacitly permitting Wen Zuo to no longer be a lone minister.

As a favored minister of the current dynasty, once a new emperor ascended the throne, he would easily become a casualty of court factional strife. By giving him this status now, Emperor Shunyuan was securing his future, making amends for his own debt of guilt.

"This servant obeys the decree." Liu Quan lowered his head, his expression respectful and unperturbed.

When Wen Zuo learned this news, he was momentarily taken aback, but in the next instant, he understood Emperor Shunyuan's intention.

One after another, they were all like this—not completely heartless, yet unwilling to give more genuine affection. They could hide a measure of true feeling within their ruthlessness, yet in moments of decision, they would resolutely cast him aside.

Fortunately, he no longer agonized over such unattainable things. What Emperor Shunyuan gave, he would accept with equanimity. As for his own concealment, he would simply consider it compensation for the emperor's previous tacit approval of the judicial torture.

However, as chief examiner, there was one matter that filled him with immense joy.

Fifteen days before the Metropolitan Examination began, on the third day after New Year's Day, he would enter the examination compound and be sealed inside, cut off from all external contact. He would not be released until the examination questions were finalized and the examination commenced.

This meant that at least three of Shen Zheng's letters simply could not be used to punish him!

The thought of this made the usually 'restrained' Chancellor Wen happily eat six marshmallows that very evening.

In the blink of an eye, it was the day before New Year's Eve, also Shen Zheng's last day acting as regent for the year.

In the Hall of Military Eminence, Shen Zheng sat upright in the regent's seat. Officials presented their reports in order, first reading the congratulatory messages from local officials to the emperor and crown prince, then submitting the annual summaries from the Six Ministries.

Gu Weizhi bowed and reported, "For New Year's Eve in the capital region, grain, rice, and charcoal have all been prepared, and refugees have been properly settled."

Liu Chenming followed closely: "Your Highness, preparations for the examination compound are complete, all according to Your Highness's decree, treating the candidates generously."

Mo Shu also reported: "Additional troops have been assigned to palace security and the nine city gates to strictly guard against thieves and ruffians, ensuring the capital's safety."

After listening, Shen Zheng lightly tapped the armrest of his chair with his fingertips, his voice steady. "His Majesty the Emperor's illness has not yet recovered. For tomorrow's New Year's Eve, we should simplify auspicious ceremonies, preserve filial rites, and uphold court rituals. All banquets, music, and entertainment are to be canceled. Officials shall assemble for court at the Chen hour (9-11 AM) outside the Gate of Heavenly Worship. Once the ceremony concludes, you may return to your residences to reunite with your families."

With official business concluded, the atmosphere in the hall eased slightly.

Wen Zuo, standing at the head of the officials, quickly glanced up at Shen Zheng, speculating inwardly. Perhaps Shen Zheng was too preoccupied with busy, trivial matters to remember the punishment for now. Or perhaps, considering his birthday was tomorrow, he had simply decided to forgo it.

Just as a sliver of hope began to sprout in his heart, Shen Zheng's voice came steadily through the air: "Chancellor Wen, come to the Eastern Palace after court."

Wen Zuo's eyelashes instantly drooped.

As the old man Lan Jianghe was leaving, he patted Wen Zuo's shoulder with a smile. "Chancellor Wen, His Highness has benefited from your instruction, his knowledge of governance advancing daily. With New Year's Eve approaching, His Highness summons you alone to discuss matters—this truly demonstrates the exceptional favor and honor he bestows upon you. Congratulations, Chancellor."

Do you have any idea why the Crown Prince summoned me?!

Wen Zuo smiled with his hands clasped behind his back, feeling a lingering soreness.

Seeing that Shen Zheng showed no sign of going easy on him, Wen Zuo resigned himself to his fate and headed toward the Eastern Palace, a path he knew all too well.

Just as he reached the Gate of Literary Brilliance, a large hand suddenly seized his wrist from behind, pulling him sharply to the side.

Wen Zuo quickly turned his head, his eyes locking with Shen Zheng's deep gaze.

Glancing around, he noticed a patrol of imperial guards passing by and immediately struggled to free his hand, bowing respectfully. "Your Highness."

Shen Zheng waited until the guards had moved on before leaning in slightly and lowering his voice. "Not the Study of Fundamental Principles today."

Wen Zuo's eyes lit up instantly. Was the punishment being called off?

Shen Zheng, amused by his rapidly shifting expressions, gripped his wrist and led him into the Eastern Palace, heading straight for the northern courtyard.

The courtyard was filled with plum trees, blooming profusely on New Year's Eve, their sparse shadows slanting and their subtle fragrance mingling in the air.

This was the Crown Prince's private bathing pavilion. The vermilion door stood slightly ajar, with wisps of steam and the scent of sandalwood seeping through the gap.

Wen Zuo lingered for a moment, admiring the plum blossoms, then turned with a puzzled look. "Your Highness wishes to soak in the hot spring?"

"Visiting the hot spring villa in the outskirts is inconvenient at the moment, so we must make do here for now, Master. I promise to take you to experience it properly another day," Shen Zheng said.

Wen Zuo quickly composed his expression, adopting a stern tone. "Your Highness, this is against protocol. Whether it is the hot spring palace or the Eastern Palace's bathing pavilion, court officials are not permitted to enter."

So, Your Highness should feel free to enjoy yourself, while I'd best return home at once!

Shen Zheng glanced at him, a faint, knowing smile playing on his lips. "Does Master still consider himself merely a court official?"

Wen Zuo choked on his words.

"Recalling the time at Chunlai Lane, with the cold rain drizzling and the warm spring pool rippling, my heart was uneasy as I secretly glimpsed Your Highness's figure, feeling flustered and at a loss. Little did I know then of the deep affection that would later blossom between us, nor that Your Highness would also explore my depths..." Shen Zheng recited unhurriedly, a hint of teasing in his eyes. "I prepared this hot spring pool especially for these words of yours, Master."

"..."

He didn't have those ten sheets of paper in his possession, and even he had forgotten—the seventh letter contained those very words!

As his voice fell, Shen Zheng simply swept Wen Zuo up into his arms, stepped into the warm pavilion, and shoved the door shut with his knuckles. The sound of the lock clicking into place echoed distinctly in Wen Zuo's ears.

The surroundings were quiet and secluded, with no attendants in sight. Clearly, Shen Zheng had made arrangements in advance, dismissing everyone.

Inside the pavilion, the hot spring pool was built of bluestone, simple and clean in its arrangement. A small red-clay stove burned brightly by the poolside, and the spring water rippled gently, lapping against the stone walls.

And on the platform beside the pool, the Amber Long Spoon lay quietly, its honey-brown luster sending a tremor through Wen Zuo.

"It should be seventy-six characters, a bit fewer than last time. Master can hang his official robe on the crossbeam; it won't get wet."

The steam from the hot water had made Wen Zuo's cheeks damp and flushed. He tightened his official robe around himself, toes drawing in slightly, and replied with restraint and propriety, "Your Highness may bathe. This teacher will wait here for Your Highness."

Shen Zheng undid his outer robe with one hand, his movements swift and decisive. The scarlet court robe was casually hung aside, revealing a set of light apricot-colored undergarments adorned with auspicious cloud patterns, which outlined his tall and broad shoulders.

He chuckled softly, his demeanor growing even more composed and imposing. "If Master does not undress, how can the punishment be carried out?"

N-o-t a c-h-a-n-c-e!

Wen Zuo felt a surge of heat rush straight to his chest, wishing he could plunge into the hot spring pool and sink to the bottom, never to emerge again.

But this was far from the first time. Though humiliating, he was already accustomed to it. Yet, thinking that tomorrow was his birthday and Shen Zheng showed not an ounce of leniency, his sense of grievance suddenly intensified. With a hint of defiance, he removed his fox fur cloak, then layer by layer shed his official robe, everyday gown, and undergarments, until only a plain white undergarment remained, its collar slightly open, revealing the delicate line of his neck.

The humid heat of the pool stung his eyes. His hands moved to his undergarment, and with a determined heart, he swiftly removed it. In the blink of an eye, his proper attire turned into disarray.

His dark eyes lifted, seeming to hold the water of the hot spring within them. His fingertips traced upward along the wide sleeve of Shen Zheng's undergarment, rolling up the cuff embroidered with a small insignia to reveal a large, slightly rough palm.

These were hands that could draft imperial edicts and also hold him completely within their grasp.

The bluestone tiles on the floor were damp with moisture. Wen Zuo's toes instinctively curled slightly as he carefully turned around, lowered his head, lifted the hem of his undergarment, and presented the fair, firm, and rounded curve to Shen Zheng's palm.

I hate Your Highness to death!

Shen Zheng saw his defiance and shame clearly. He then wrapped his arms firmly around Wen Zuo from behind, stroking the smooth skin with a sense of entitlement, and asked, "For the next few times, Master will be confined in the Examination Hall to set the questions, so the punishment cannot be administered. Why not settle it all today?"

The curve beneath his palm trembled noticeably.

Wen Zuo glared angrily, biting his lip and refusing to utter a word.

Shen Zheng thought for another moment. "Punishing all at once would be too many; I fear Master could not endure it. Instead of increasing the number, let's use the Amber Long Spoon. It will hurt more."

Wen Zuo lowered his eyes, the corners gradually reddening. He lifted his sleeve to wipe them roughly but still remained silent.

Tomorrow is my birthday—does Your Highness even remember?!

Without waiting for a response, Shen Zheng reached for the Amber Long Spoon by the poolside, grasped it in his palm, swung it through the air twice, and then brought it down.

The anticipated pain did not arrive. Wen Zuo was taken aback.

Suspicious, he stole a glance at Shen Zheng from the corner of his eye, wondering if this thing was truly all bark and no bite—intimidating in appearance but actually gentle?

Shen Zheng remained calm and composed, maintaining a steady rhythm, stroke after stroke. Yet Wen Zuo only felt occasional tingles, with faint red marks beginning to appear.

Just as he was puzzling over this, suddenly, Shen Zheng's slender fingers parted the curve, gently kneading the tender area for a moment before pressing into the jade crevice.

The steam from the hot spring was too dense. Wen Zuo felt his breath quicken abruptly, as if the heat had rushed into his lungs, warming every part of his body.

The long spoon fell lightly, while the fingers continued their movements. The two sensations intertwined, stirring an unusual feeling within him.

It seemed more reckless and intoxicating than any previous time—though filled with anxiety and trepidation, he had tasted its essence and now eagerly yearned for more entanglement.

His legs trembled, unable to stand steadily. Water droplets clung to his dark hair, tracing their way down along the strands and seeping deep into his undergarment.

His upper body still managed to maintain a semblance of composure, but below, he was already in complete disarray, requiring immense effort to restrain the waves of sensation.

Shen Zheng noticed the change in him and couldn't help but chuckle softly. With swift movements, he turned Wen Zuo around and lifted him into his arms with one hand.

Wen Zuo closed his eyes lightly, accepting the damp embrace, and eagerly wrapped his arms around Shen Zheng's shoulders.

Shen Zheng saw the moisture clinging to his eyelashes and teased, "How many times have you cursed me in your heart? Master knows full well that this thing is meant for pleasure in the inner chambers, yet you still act so aggrieved."

Holding Wen Zuo, he stepped into the warm hot spring pool. The water rippled, splashing onto his still-fastened undergarment, causing the ties to loosen with the waves. His panther-like waist and ape-like arms, along with his robust lines, pressed closely against Wen Zuo through the damp fabric, leaving no gap between them.

Wen Zuo pretended not to hear, burying his face against Shen Zheng's shoulder.

Shen Zheng leaned close to his ear, slowly thrusting his hips, each word burning and each inch resolute. "I want Master, inside and out, to be thoroughly soaked by me."