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As the evening light began to fade, the Kong residence was adorned with vibrant decorations, bustling with excitement. The intricately carved beams and painted pillars exuded an air of opulence, while the warm yellow lights danced alongside the bright red silk ribbons, creating a dizzying spectacle.
Servants moved gracefully through the crowd, carrying exquisite delicacies. The mingling scents of fine wine and fragrant powders blended with the rich aroma of gourmet dishes, filling the air with an indulgent atmosphere.
Lin Feng entered the estate with Xia Qingyu by his side. In an instant, the sounds of stringed instruments and laughter surged around them like a tide, a cacophony that masked an underlying sense of superficial gaiety.
Inside the hall, guests were toasting and celebrating. Upon seeing the Fourth Prince arrive, they all rose to pay their respects, their expressions varying from flattery to curiosity, with some casting discreet glances of scrutiny.
Kong, the Deputy Minister of Personnel, spotted Lin Feng and his eyes lit up instantly. A warm smile spread across his face as he hurried over. "Your Highness," he exclaimed, "your presence truly brightens our humble abode! Your efforts in disaster relief have become the talk of the court. We all look forward to your guidance in steering this realm; we hope to bask in your glory."
He then turned to Xia Qingyu with equal courtesy, acknowledging her presence as an enhancement to their gathering.
As everyone settled back into their seats and resumed drinking, the atmosphere grew increasingly relaxed after several rounds of wine. Yet beneath the surface of laughter and chatter, a current of tension began to flow as conversations shifted toward court reforms.
Kong casually swirled his wine glass before introducing a topic. "I’ve heard that the position overseeing Changping Granary is still undecided. This is a crucial role indeed. I have a distant relative who has managed local granaries for many years with meticulous care; his character is beyond reproach. Perhaps Your Highness might consider him? Having someone reliable in such a position would surely facilitate smoother reforms."
As he spoke, he discreetly observed Lin Feng's reaction.
Lin Feng's mind raced with alarm as he realized that this banquet was far from simple. The moment reform was mentioned, Kong was eager to recommend his own relative—a calculated move aimed at placing someone in a key position to control the lifeblood of Changping Granary and potentially profit from it later.
Maintaining his composure, Lin Feng allowed a barely perceptible smile to play at the corners of his mouth. He gently set down his wine glass, its base clinking against the table with a sharp sound. His expression turned cold as winter frost: "I appreciate your good intentions, Kong. However, such critical positions are tied to countless lives and public trust; they are like the beams supporting a grand structure—any negligence is unacceptable. They must undergo rigorous selection to ensure that only those who are both capable and just are appointed."
"This matter concerns national stability and the welfare of the people," he continued firmly. "I must proceed with utmost caution; I cannot allow personal interests to interfere with public duty."
His words were deliberate yet resonated powerfully in the air.
Kong's smile faltered momentarily before he forced it back into place, hastily shifting topics to discuss recent performances by renowned artists in the capital and sharing news about poetry gatherings that had produced remarkable works.
Amidst this noisy banquet, Lin Feng remained calm as a mirror, seeing through all flattery, manipulation, and probing attempts around him. He understood that obstacles lay ahead like navigating upstream; yet as a prince with a heart for his people, his resolve for reform was as solid as rock. How could he be swayed by such veiled threats?
Even amidst turbulent currents and hidden reefs within the court, he was determined to forge a path illuminated by justice and progress.
Meanwhile, Deputy Censor Zhang sat alone in his study. The flickering candlelight cast eerie shadows on the walls, creating monstrous shapes that mirrored his somber expression, adding an air of grim seriousness to the room.
He was furiously writing an impeachment memorial, the tip of his brush gliding across the paper, producing a rustling sound akin to a snake flicking its tongue. The Fourth Prince had privately altered the data for the Official Agency's document review, acting arrogantly and disregarding court regulations; his intentions were worthy of punishment.
Every word was soaked in his resistance and indignation towards change. This conservative censor sought to suppress Lin Feng, aiming to strangle the nascent reform in its cradle.
At this moment, within the Crown Prince's Palace...
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