Chapter 75
Chapter 75
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Translator: uly
Chapter: 75
Chapter Title: The Hanlin Scholars
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There was no reply. Everyone was glancing around cautiously, hemming and hawing. They were still so naive, untouched by the world's filth.
The Yuk Clan Leader chuckled and changed the subject.
"I must have phrased the question poorly. I've heard that these days, officials have all sorts of places where money pours out—unlike in the days of the Founding Emperor."
"Shamefully, yes."
Yang Sa-gi muttered in a subdued voice.
"Even passing the jinshi exams doesn't guarantee a decent post if you fall out of favor with the high officials. Many end up as lowly magistrates in remote villages."
"And all of you are Hanlin Academy scholars. That must have cost quite a bit."
"......Yes, it did. It's an essential step for advancement. Shamefully, after spending a fortune to secure our positions, we're now so strapped that we have to patch our official robes."
Yang Sa-gi's words were true. The scholars' robes, woven from fine silk, were worn threadbare on the outside. With no spares, they had to wear the same ones every day to court.
The Yuk Clan Leader cast a sidelong glance.
At his signal, Choe Rim presented wooden boxes prepared in advance—one for each of them. They were filled with silver coins. The scholars' eyes widened.
"How can men serving the realm go about looking so shabby? Use this freely. On your way out, I'll have attendants give you silk for new robes—have a few made when you return home."
Yang Sa-gi looked at the box with an embarrassed expression but showed no sign of refusal.
"What would you have us do?"
"Straight to the point—I like that."
The Yuk Clan Leader paused briefly before speaking.
"There have been quite a few discussions about the alliance in the court lately, haven't there?"
"Yes."
"But no real response yet. Especially after the Shandong incident—that must have been a blow. I hear the Hwangbo Clan Leader put a bounty on our grandson's head."
Even in jest, the mood chilled. Undeterred, the Yuk Clan Leader continued.
"When a mad dog runs wild, its master can't rest easy. What are they saying in court?"
Yang Sa-gi answered cautiously.
"The court views the alliance with concern."
"Is that so?"
"Yes, the Shandong affair had a significant impact. They've decided to turn a blind eye to the entanglements with the Hwangbo Clan."
The Yuk Clan Leader's smile deepened. His predictions had all come true.
"They've decided to view the alliance's movements separately from Prince Yan's rebellion."
"There was debate in court. Hardliners see the alliance baring its fangs openly, while many officials advocate caution."
Yang Sa-gi wet his throat with wine.
"Then the situation shifted abruptly. Your grandson spread the alliance's cause far and wide, and crucially, it was because of the heretics."
"We were caught off guard too. We didn't expect the Hwangbo Clan to bring those fiends into it."
"They claim it was unavoidable—short on hands to gather supplies. But I see it differently."
The Yuk Clan Leader's eyes sharpened.
"You think there's another reason?"
"It seems they struck some deal with them. Those heretics are masters of sorcery, aren't they?"
"They know all sorts of secret arts to boost power. Those without roots fall for such temptations easily."
"Yes, though it's just speculation for now."
Yang Sa-gi returned to the main topic.
"In any case, the Hwangbo Clan crossed a line this time. Even in court, many officials are sighing over it. They say they can no longer protect them."
"Naturally. If they're not careful, the court will share the infamy."
To put it simply, the new clans were the court's hunting dogs.
The court used them to exploit the people, securing grain supplies while shifting the blame.
In return, the new clans gained imperial backing for their misdeeds—a halo once reserved for ancient clans.
It was a filthy pact, but devastatingly effective. Both sides got what they wanted.
In other words, it was a bond that could shatter at any moment if one side suffered too much.
The heretics' involvement was on another level. The orthodox sects would never tolerate them. If they sided with Prince Yan, the court would face grave consequences.
It could even challenge the emperor's legitimacy, as none other than the Ming founder had suppressed the White Lotus Cult.
"Aren't the new clans pushing back?"
"For now, they're distancing themselves from the Hwangbo Clan. His Majesty still ponders their utility. But heavyweights from the Six Ministries have stepped in, saying it's not the time to worry about new clans."
"Oh? Those old foxes have spoken."
Yang Sa-gi nodded.
"Public opinion has coalesced around prioritizing Prince Yan's suppression. Hardliners like Qi Tai and Huang Zicheng remain, but the senior officials' stance is unyielding."
The Yuk Clan Leader inwardly cheered. The board was set for free swings of the sword.
In a gambling den free of cheats, the house owner grieved most—like the court propping up new clans.
"Earlier, I asked about your roles."
The Yuk Clan Leader shifted topics.
"Just keep doing what you're doing."
"What do you mean......?"
"Stay in court. Liaise closely with our eldest son's branch office in Beizhili and report on the court's inner workings. No greater merit than that."
The scholars' faces darkened. Having switched sides, court was now a den of tigers and dragons to them. The Yuk Clan Leader soothed them.
"That's how you'll shine. At least in the current climate. We've already coordinated with Prince Yan, so no worries."
"Understood."
Yang Sa-gi replied calmly. Yang Bu and Yang Yeong swiftly grasped his intent and prepared to act.
"If there's specific information you want, we'll watch closely."
"Ask away about new clans. We've studied them thoroughly."
Only Hae Jin couldn't hide his displeasure.
The Yuk Clan Leader set down his chopsticks and rose.
"Save the favors for later. I have business—I'll take my leave."
As the scholars startled to rise, he waved them down.
"Eat and drink your fill. We'll host you lavishly during your stay—tell the servants anything you need."
The Yuk Clan Leader exited the banquet hall flanked by his sons and the Grand Steward. A faint smile played on his leisurely strolling face.
"Aren't they all prime material for big things?"
Yuk Seo sidled up, subtly highlighting his merit in bringing such talents.
The Yuk Clan Leader replied playfully.
"All but the Hae fellow—the other three are quite usable."
"Pardon? I thought he'd be the standout."
Meeting his father's pitying gaze, Yuk Seo averted his eyes. Instead of scolding, the Yuk Clan Leader posed a question.
"Do you know the qualities of a rising scholar-official?"
"Proficiency in poetry, calligraphy, painting, and deep learning."
"Wrong. First, firm principles with flexibility. They don't cling to one master. Yang Sa-gi fits that mold."
"And second?"
"Those who can feed the sovereign bitter medicine, whatever the ingredients."
Yuk Seo's expression grew odd.
"What do you mean...? Please enlighten me."
"What if someone tried to make you eat a bug?"
"I'd be furious, naturally."
"But if it were an elixir?"
Yuk Seo shook his head.
"A bug? Hard to believe without proof."
"What if they ground it up and mixed it into your usual tonic—without your knowledge, turning it into an elixir?"
"Isn't that a sycophant?"
"A sycophant, but loyal. That's why emperors need not just insight into people, but the wisdom to place them right. Yang Bu and Yang Yeong seem that type. Quick on their feet."
Yuk Seo asked puzzledly.
"Then what of Hae Jin?"
"He doesn't know when to advance or retreat. Too arrogant, words outpacing deeds—he's doomed for promotion. He'll bring trouble; keep your distance."
The Yuk Clan Leader nodded toward the opposite direction at his sullen eldest son.
"Head back now. It's good the court isn't turning blades on us yet, but don't let your guard down. Manage it carefully."
"Yes."
"Especially the Six Ministries heavyweights. Those old timers are earning their bribes handsomely."
"Understood."
"And you did well this time."
Brief praise, but resounding. Yuk Seo knew such words were rare from his father. Something hot surged in his throat.
"Yes, Father."
Voice choked, Yuk Seo turned away. The Yuk Clan Leader watched his eldest son's retreating back.
Then Choe Rim ventured.
"Shall we prioritize Yang Sa-gi, Yang Bu, and Yang Yeong?"
"No need to slight the fourth. Tend to all, but watch those three especially."
"Got it."
"All surnamed Yang—people will call them the Three Yangs. Ha ha."
The Yuk Clan Leader chuckled idly. Choe Rim showed faint doubt.
"Honestly, I thought you'd favor Hae Jin most."
"That one? He has flair—for a clown, not a courtier."
Emphatic, the Yuk Clan Leader leaned back comfortably.
"Still, leaving Yuk Seo in charge of the Beizhili branch long-term paid off. He sent some useful picks."
"As the saying goes, mugwort grows straight in a hemp field. Experience sharpens the eye."
"Speaking of which, Jin-yang did splendidly in Shandong."
The Yuk Clan Leader subtly shifted topics. Mentioning his youngest grandson brought an irrepressible smile to his lips.