"Otherwise, we wouldn’t be content, and now the elder in the court is Minister Zhong. With his temperament, would he watch so many useless officials occupying positions and doing nothing, while leaving real talents outside to harbor grievances?"

"No." Chu Cai shook his head decisively. Even he would certainly use capable people instead of those who are just passing time.

Yet ironically, in the Ministry of Works where he was stationed, there are many who are just passing time.

"So, not only does one need to have good political achievements to be promoted, but perhaps also to keep one’s position they may need to have good achievements."

"I understand now. Thank you, Third Brother, for the reminder. I will keep it in mind." Chu Cai quickly responded.

"Moreover, now every yamen has a target to publish books. This is a great opportunity. If you have any ideas, you can write some. With me here, people in the Ministry of Works won’t dare dismiss your writings easily. As long as your writings are useful, once they pass through the cabinet, they are also part of your achievements. At this moment, many officials probably dislike this reform, and will join forces to oppose it in the court. But the Emperor will certainly continue. You might as well find some like-minded colleagues and work together." Chu Heng suggested.

Chu Cai had never thought about this matter. He felt he was just lucky to get into the Ministry of Works due to Chu Heng’s influence. He had no ambition at all.

So he never even considered getting promoted or making achievements, let alone writing books.

But seeing Chu Heng’s suggestion, it was indeed a great opportunity, and he dared not ignore his goodwill. Although lacking confidence, he decided to change his mind and give it a try.

Chu Cai and his wife finished their toast.

Chu Fu and other young members like Chu Yunhuai came respectfully and admirably to toast to Chu Heng.

"Third Uncle, thank you for your guidance. I am very happy you have awakened." Chu Fu said dryly.

Chu Yunhuai, too, was speaking to Chu Heng so closely for the first time. During the period when Chu Heng was unconscious, he had some concerns, worried that it might affect his studies. If not for Ye Muyu instructing them not to worry, only focusing on reading to help the Chu family, he would have been affected long ago.

Now seeing Chu Heng, looking at his imposing figure and those deep eyes, his mood was a bit stirred: "Uncle Chu San, Yunhuai is immensely grateful, please take care. I will study hard, not let your guidance go in vain, and will do my best to repay you and the Chu family."

"Your knowledge is quite good, though somewhat immature. With this determination, you will achieve something in the future."

"Studying requires avoiding arrogance and impatience, being earnest. As for repaying me, there is no need to worry about that—doing your best is enough. As for your future prospects, the family won’t demand too much, but life is yours to carve out the path for yourself." 𝓯𝓻𝒆𝙚𝒘𝓮𝙗𝓷𝒐𝓿𝙚𝒍.𝙘𝓸𝙢

"You must remember, today you study not for me, nor for the family, but for yourselves. As long as you have a clear conscience, that is enough."

Chu Fu and Chu Yunhuai heard this kind of rhetoric for the first time, since everyone commonly believed now that studying and the imperial examination was for bringing glory to the family.

"Thank you, Third Uncle, for the guidance." The two pondered for a moment then said one after another.

Chu Heng nodded: "This current reform in the court also affects you, for example, currently you’re not only required to study the Four Books and Five Classics. You need to allocate time to learn contents that interest you. If uncertain, there’s no hurry; you can choose slowly."