Peasant Woman’s Decreed Life as a Wife

Chapter 2145: Chapter 2142: Promotion

The ten scholars heaved a sigh of relief.

Chu Heng sat beside Elder Zhong, speaking softly.

Yet, he did not entirely ignore the ten scholars.

The first to go and fetch the paper as instructed was a thirty-five-year-old man named Yan Zhenming.

Chu Heng had reviewed his background; he was not a local of the capital, passed the imperial examination at twenty-eight, and had been living in the capital for seven years. To this day, he made a living by writing articles. Although his family was only modestly wealthy, he had managed to support his wife and children in the capital through his own efforts. His abilities were quite impressive.

Elder Zhong, seeing his gaze fall on the group of people, smiled and asked, "Zi Qiu, have you chosen someone?"

"Mm, let’s not rush. I’ll choose whoever is capable." Chu Heng poured a cup of tea for Elder Zhong.

He then picked up his pen and began writing some regulations.

Elder Zhong found this intriguing: "Zi Qiu, this method is good, though I fear I won’t be of much help."

"Why do you say that, My Lord? I’m just doing my duty, those who can, do more work. Of course, it would be even better if you would consider granting me a higher salary," Chu Heng calmly expressed a desire for a raise.

Elder Zhong couldn’t help but laugh heartily upon hearing this: "You sly one, with your wife’s business doing so well, are you still in need of taels of silver?"

"Elder, you said it yourself, that is my wife’s store. As the head of the household, I only take my salary, and it’s only natural to strive for more, to buy some treats for my wife and children," Chu Heng didn’t mind admitting he relied on his wife’s earnings.

Those familiar with his family situation knew very well that he indeed lived off his wife’s support.

Elder Zhong saw his straightforwardness, not at all resentful about relying on his wife, stroked his beard, and couldn’t help but admire Chu Heng’s excellent character. Even as an old official, he couldn’t find any fault.

"Then, I shall go and have a word with the Ministry of Revenue," Elder Zhong said, half-jokingly.

Chu Heng nodded with a smile, accepting it without hesitation; after all, it was hard-earned by him, so he had no guilt in taking it.

Doing good work and receiving silver rewards is only fair.

When Chu Heng returned home that evening, it was quite late, and darkness had already fallen.

Ye Muyu was waiting for him to return and had not yet dined.

She was writing a storybook in the study and upon hearing sounds from the outer room, she put down her brush and ink, walked out, and saw Chu Heng washing his hands and changing clothes. She stepped forward to help him with his clothes.

"You came back rather early today, weren’t you busy with the Official Gazette Office?" Ye Muyu may not focus on matters of the capital, but with her informants, she never missed any small or large news.

Liuye paid more attention to Chu Heng’s affairs, noticing the affection between the two, so Ye Muyu achieved complete awareness without having to personally inquire, as people brought news of Chu Heng to her.

"Just busy with sorting officials at the Gazette," Chu Heng never hid his official circle matters from her, and even mentioned Elder Zhong’s stance.

Ye Muyu was a bit curious: "Is Elder Zhong accommodating you, Ah Heng?"

"I suppose so, the Emperor’s intentions are known to all officials now, and no one wants to stand out. Elder Zhong is an Imperial Loyalist, naturally respecting the Emperor’s decree. Moreover, Elder Zhong himself is a great scholar, beloved by the people. Now, although it is said that the Emperor intends to cultivate his own followers, this promotion of children from families who are not officials.