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墨書 Inktalez
In the Imperial Hall, the court meeting was in full swing.
"I believe that the Qintian Observatory holds a position equivalent to a fifth rank, which does not match its importance," the Minister of Rites suggested. "The recent celestial predictions clearly show its connection to the fate of the nation. I propose elevating it to a Senior Third Rank office."
"I second that!" the Deputy Minister of War stepped forward. "Especially with Master Liu exposing Lord Zhou's collusion with the Rebels, it further highlights the significance of the Qintian Observatory."
The Emperor scanned the officials present. "What do you all think?"
"Your Majesty," the Minister of Works spoke up, "the Qintian Observatory has been established throughout various dynasties, yet there has never been a female official appointed. Now that Master Liu has single-handedly dealt with traitors and verified celestial phenomena, it demonstrates the capability of female officials. I suggest we take this opportunity to establish such a position."
Lord Zhang seized the moment to step forward. "Your Majesty, this humble official suggests establishing a female official system at the Qintian Observatory, appointing Master Liu as the first Female Chief Officer to oversee female officials."
A wave of agreement rippled through the court. Recently, the prestige of the Qintian Observatory had reached unprecedented heights, and even those ministers who had always adhered to tradition no longer opposed the establishment of female officials.
"Your Majesty," the Minister of Revenue interjected, "I have heard that the Northern Frontier is in dire need of revitalization and requires capable individuals. Why not select talented officials and generals to restore order there?"
"Indeed," the Emperor nodded. "Issue an edict for Xu Yuan to depart immediately for his post as Pacification Envoy to the Northern Frontier and to reorganize military affairs."
"Your Majesty is wise!" Xu Yuan stepped forward and bowed deeply.
"Furthermore," the Emperor continued, "effective immediately, elevate the Qintian Observatory to a Senior Third Rank office and establish a female official system. Appoint Liu Ying as Female Chief Officer with a rank of Third Grade."
The court officials all voiced their congratulations. Only Wang Zhengdao's expression fluctuated between joy and concern. He was close to Lord Zhou, and this shift in court dynamics was clearly unfavorable for him.
After dismissing the court, Zhao Mingyuan called out to Liu Ying. "I heard that candidates from the Northern Thirteen Provinces have already set up tents outside the city, waiting for tomorrow's calculation results."
"It’s nothing to worry about," Liu Ying replied with a calm smile. "The will of heaven lies in people's hearts."
"But what about Wang Zhengdao?" Zhao Mingyuan lowered his voice. "He met secretly with several southern officials this morning; it seems…"
Before he could finish, Deputy Minister Zhang from the Ministry of Rites hurried over. "Master Liu, Her Majesty the Empress summons you to the palace."
Inside Kun Ning Palace, the Empress was reviewing an ancient text. Upon seeing Liu Ying enter, she closed her book. "I hear Xu Yuan is going to the Northern Frontier?"
"Yes."
"And what about you?" The Empress asked meaningfully.
Liu Ying lowered her head in silence. The Empress sighed lightly. "I know you are in a difficult position. The role of Female Chief Officer at the Qintian Observatory is unprecedented in our dynasty. If you go with him to the Northern Frontier…"
"Your Majesty," Liu Ying raised her head, "I have made my decision."
The Empress smiled gently. "Is it because of that prophecy?"
"Not just that," Liu Ying replied earnestly. "The matters at the Northern Frontier are pressing and require astronomical calculations. If I can contribute to significant military affairs through this, I am willing to go."
"Good!" The Empress nodded with satisfaction. "I have been waiting for your words. Bring forth that memorial."
Liu Ying took it and, to her surprise, it was a request to establish an observatory at the Northern Frontier, under the jurisdiction of the Qintian Observatory. The signature was Xu Yuan.
"This..."
"This was submitted three days ago," the Empress said with a smile. "It seems he has long believed you would accompany him."
At that moment, a commotion arose outside. A young eunuch hurried in, "Your Highness! Several high-ranking officials from the south have jointly submitted a petition requesting to observe today's calculations at noon!"
The Empress dismissed it with a wave of her hand. "Let them be." She looked meaningfully at Liu Ying. "Heaven's will will reveal itself; there is no need for excessive words."
Liu Ying took her leave from the palace, and the sun was nearing its zenith. In two hours, it would be time for the calculations. She gazed toward the direction of the Purple Forbidden Enclosure and saw Venus flickering in the sunlight, reminiscent of that moment twenty years ago.
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