Great Yan Imperial Palace.
Yan Tingshan lay contentedly on the bed, enjoying the service of Noble Consort Rong.
As the most favored consort in the entire harem, Noble Consort Fengrong was actually quite young, having just turned twenty this year.
But her beauty was extremely alluring, especially those seductive eyes, which seemed to capture one’s soul.
"Your Majesty, I noticed a few more white hairs on your head. Although state affairs are overwhelming, you must also take care of your health."
Fengrong gently massaged the acupoints on Yan Tingshan’s head while speaking softly.
Yan Tingshan, hearing this, gently held Fengrong’s hand and sighed, "You are the one who truly cares for me, unlike those outside who only say that the affairs of the state are paramount."
Fengrong chuckled softly, suddenly remembered something, and asked, "I heard there’s quite a bustle outside lately, with someone named Capital Prefecture who has managed the Capital City so well. Is that true?"
"Indeed, it’s true. That Shang Jingchuan is an old minister of many years, only recently returned from the Outer Province. I originally planned for him to retire in the Capital Prefecture, but I didn’t expect him to make such a grand display, which shows he has ability," Yan Tingshan laughed.
He appreciated Shang Jingchuan’s actions, as it was a means to discipline those noble families.
"Oh? Such a capable minister deserves to be greatly rewarded. Only in this manner will more talented individuals serve Your Majesty in the future."
"Hahaha, what you say is true. My dear consort, what reward do you think I should grant him?" Yan Tingshan asked indulgently.
"For such talent, and as an old minister, promoting him to a higher position wouldn’t be too much. The higher, the better," Fengrong said, feigning innocence.
Yan Tingshan laughed heartily, "Alright, I shall take your suggestion and promote him."
"Send word for Shang Jingchuan to enter the palace and see me."
"Yes!"
An eunuch immediately obeyed and left.
Yan Tingshan smirked, "So, my dear consort, are you satisfied with this?"
"Your Majesty is wise. I am merely considering the well-being of your realm," Fengrong replied.
"I know you are always the most considerate. Come now, while Shang Jingchuan hasn’t arrived yet, let’s indulge a bit more."
Saying this, Yan Tingshan eagerly leaped onto the bed.
As the Emperor of Great Yan indulged in pleasure during the day, Shang Jingchuan, who was working in the Capital Prefecture, received the summons, feeling bewildered.
What is going on?
Why am I suddenly being summoned into the palace?
Apparently noticing Shang Jingchuan’s confusion, the Imperial Eunuch said cheerfully, "Shang Prefect, quickly follow me to the palace. Don’t worry, it’s definitely a matter of great joy."
Despite this, Shang Jingchuan still felt a heaviness in his heart.
He wanted to consult Zhao Ya about it, but was told that Zhao Ya hadn’t been to the Capital Prefecture for several days.
Reluctantly, he followed the Imperial Eunuch into the palace, bracing himself.
Upon seeing Yan Tingshan, Shang Jingchuan knelt down, shouting long live the Emperor.
Yan Tingshan weakly waved his hand, "Alright, stand up."
Only then did Shang Jingchuan rise and, glancing at Yan Tingshan, felt his heart jolt.
Because the Emperor now had dark circles under his eyes, a pallid complexion, and lifeless eyes. Even seated, he looked ready to topple at any moment.
The last time Shang Jingchuan entered the palace, Yan Tingshan wasn’t like this.
How, in just a month or two, did it become like this?
While he was pondering, Yan Tingshan yawned, then forced himself to speak energetically, "Jingchuan, you’ve done well recently, and I’m very pleased."
"With your talent, remaining as a mere prefect of the Capital Prefecture does indeed underutilize your abilities, so I’ve decided to promote you to Minister of the Imperial Secretariat, how about that?"
Two months ago, upon hearing this news, Shang Jingchuan would have been moved to tears.
Because Minister of the Imperial Secretariat, also known as the minor prime minister, is a position necessary before being appointed as prime minister.
It was the stepping stone Shang Jingchuan had always longed for.
But somehow, upon hearing this news now, Shang Jingchuan felt no excitement or joy, only bewilderment.
How did such a sudden promotion come about?
Considering he had only been the Capital Prefect for about two months, being promoted to the Minister of the Imperial Secretariat in such a short time made him suspicious of hidden manipulations.
And those manipulating behind the scenes, it was evident, did not want him to continue his current role.
Upon realizing this, Shang Jingchuan immediately knelt down again.
"Your Majesty, I beg your pardon, but I cannot accept this position."
"Oh? Why is that?"
Yan Tingshan was somewhat surprised, not understanding why Shang Jingchuan would refuse such a good opportunity.
"The work at Capital Prefecture has just begun and has achieved some results. If I leave now, all previous efforts will be wasted," Shang Jingchuan explained truthfully.
Unexpectedly, Yan Tingshan merely chuckled, "I wondered what the reason was. Rest assured, after your promotion, I will appoint a capable person to the position of Capital Prefect to ensure your efforts are not in vain."
"May I be bold to ask, who do you intend to appoint?"
"Hmm, Lin Shizan from the Lin Family is reliable and steady; I’ll assign him,"
Yan Tingshan thought of the candidate recommended by his consort Fengrong and said with a smile.
Upon hearing this, Shang Jingchuan felt his blood run cold.