The Beloved Concubine of the Eastern Palace (book 2)

Chapter 377 - Honoring the Meritorious Officials

No matter how much turmoil there was in Zhongcui Palace, it couldn't overshadow the importance of state affairs.

Yang Fei, being cautious, didn't reveal her discomfort, only having Physician Wu take good care of her.

Once the Third Prince's fever broke and his condition stabilized, no one paid much attention to Zhongcui Palace anymore.

At this time, the long-awaited return of the northern army finally came.

All eyes shifted to the court.

Several batches of meritorious officials were awarded, but the most significant ones were to be honored directly by the Emperor.

Among them were General Zhang, who temporarily took over the northern army after Duke Qin, Yang Chengyu, Ye Yunxiao, Huo Mingxuan, and his brother Huo Mingyi.

"For their bravery in defending our borders and restoring peace to Great Qi, they are my benefactors, the benefactors of the people, and the nation's righteous heroes!" Pei Yao declared, passionately rising from his throne to personally help General Zhang and his men up.

When he reached the Huo brothers, with Huo Mingyi missing an arm and being supported by his younger brother Huo Mingxuan, Pei Yao was reminded of the late Duke Qin and his eldest son, moved by their valor.

Helping them up, he patted Huo Mingxuan's shoulder, feeling heavy-hearted.

Returning to his throne, Pei Yao announced, "For their service in securing the northern frontier, expelling foreign enemies, and protecting our lands, these noble men are the great ministers of Great Qi. Duke Qin, Huo Chong, is posthumously honored as the First Rank General of the Nation. His eldest son, Huo Mingxu, is posthumously honored as a Second Rank General of Loyalty and Righteousness and bestowed the title of Marquis. His second son, Huo Mingyi, is bestowed the title of Third Rank General of Martial Valor and granted the title of Viscount. His third son, Huo Mingxuan, is honored as a Second Rank General of Might and inherits the title of Duke Qin, leading the northern army!"

"General Zhang Bang is bestowed the title of Marquis of Courage and Valor."

"Yang Chengyu, heir to the Marquis of Nanning, is honored as the General of Peace and appointed Deputy Commander of the Capital Guards."

"Ye Yunxiao is honored as the General of Broad Might and appointed Deputy Commander of the Front Army of the Five Armies Headquarters."

This series of honors elevated several new nobles in the court.

The most significant rewards went to the surviving sons of Duke Qin.

Huo Mingxuan, at just eighteen, became Duke Qin, leading the northern army. Huo Mingyi, despite not inheriting the title due to his injuries, was granted a viscount title, securing his family's honor for three generations.

Huo Mingyi's merit, though notable, was just the beginning of a long campaign. Being granted a general rank with a stipend was already generous, but the title allowed him to establish his household independently, avoiding rumors of relying on his brother. Despite the Huo brothers' close bond, public perception could be harsh.

Pei Yao granted this for Duke Qin's sake.

The Huo brothers understood and felt even more loyal.

A sovereign who cared for his ministers was worth their loyalty.

After bestowing these honors, Pei Yao turned to Huo Mingxuan with a smile.

"I've heard you have a talented young strategist, working well together. Has he come today? I would like to meet him."

"Yes, Your Majesty. Knowing your appreciation for talent, I brought him. He awaits your summons outside," Huo Mingxuan replied promptly.

Pei Yao, unaware that the young strategist was Liu Qin, was surprised when a face with newfound resolve and steadiness appeared in the hall.

Liu Qin's respectful greeting confirmed Pei Yao's thoughts.

"Commoner Liu Qin pays respects to Your Majesty!"

Pei Yao, recognizing him, stood in surprise.

"You! Weren't you studying for exams in the capital? When did you secretly join the northern army?"

Huo Mingxuan and the others were equally surprised, hearing Pei Yao recognize him as Chen Qin.

"Chen Qin? Your name is Liu Qin? And the Emperor knows you?"

"Of course," Pei Yao, now composed, kept his gaze on Liu Qin. "When I was Crown Prince, he risked his life to save me and Zhao Fei from an assassination attempt by the then King Ming. Later, Zhao Fei adopted him as her sworn brother."

Liu Qin then turned to Huo Mingxuan, explaining, "Changing my name wasn't meant to deceive. I secretly joined the army to avoid worrying my sister. I dared not use my true name and identity, fearing it would shame her. I hope the general forgives me."

With this explanation, his identity was clear.

The courtiers whispered among themselves, assessing the young man.

Many realized that Zhao Fei, once without support, now had a meritorious and promising younger brother, likely increasing her favor in the harem.

Yang Chengyu, thinking this, looked at Liu Qin with growing hostility.

Yet, what mattered most was Pei Yao's view.

Clearly valuing talent, Pei Yao's admiration for Liu Qin was evident.

"You have such talent and should not be overlooked. I see that your time in the military has made you more composed, and your judgment has become sharper. The position of Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Justice is vacant. Take on this role!"

"I am grateful for Your Majesty's grace!"

Liu Qin immediately knelt and bowed, his eyes filled with excitement.

A year of planning had led to such a favorable outcome, naturally bringing joy.

Military strategists often worked under generals and rarely received independent titles. Liu Qin's identity allowed him to stand out.

Even achieving the highest score in the imperial exams typically started with a fifth-rank official position, often without real power. The role of a fifth-rank deputy minister at the Ministry of Justice, however, held substantial authority.

Starting from here, he could gradually climb the ranks.

After rewarding the meritorious officials, Pei Yao announced a banquet in the palace the next evening to celebrate, then dismissed the court.

Without changing his clothes, Pei Yao headed straight for Yuzhang Palace to discuss Liu Qin's situation with Fang Yun.

Meanwhile, outside the palace, Liu Qin accepted Huo Mingxuan's invitation to join him in his carriage.

Over the past year, Huo Mingxuan and Liu Qin had shared several life-and-death experiences, forging a deep bond.

After the war, Liu Qin had confessed his true identity to Huo Mingxuan.

Though surprised, knowing Liu Qin's character, Huo Mingxuan didn't mind the deception. Instead, it brought them closer, and he was willing to pretend ignorance to speak on Liu Qin's behalf to Pei Yao.

Even if Pei Yao hadn't mentioned Liu Qin, Huo Mingxuan planned to introduce him as a valuable talent.

Huo Mingxuan recognized that someone like Liu Qin shouldn't be overlooked.

Thus, the two young men were genuinely happy for each other.

"You won't shame Zhao Fei now, will you?" Huo Mingxuan teased.

Liu Qin smiled, "And you, too. Duke Qin and his eldest son would be proud of you."

They exchanged a look, playfully punching each other's shoulders.

Meanwhile, in the palace, Pei Yao's sedan chair had arrived outside Yuzhang Palace.