Early April.

This month marks the deepening of spring and the beginning of summer.

April is also a month of plant growth and blooming flowers, with many blossoms opening this month, bringing the breath of spring.

Tianchuan, the capital carrying nearly four hundred years of the Great Song Dynasty, was rejuvenated with a sense of gravity as the Emperor moved in again, restoring the ancient city’s former splendor.

In the direction of the west gate of Tianchuan, more than a dozen galloping horses could be seen speeding by. After verifying their identities, the gate guards dared not stop them, allowing them to quickly enter the city. The bustling shops on both sides were filled with people coming and going.

On horseback, the three leading men, clad in brocade robes, carried the weariness of long travel on their faces.

They were none other than Geng Songfu, Zuo Lianglun, Chen Cultivator, and others arriving to take office in Tianchuan.

All three had previously served in the Capital and had residences watched over by designated personnel. However, after leaving the Capital, these properties were all swallowed up by powerful ministers.

Later, Xu Guozhong moved the capital, and Tianchuan was looted by the Xiliang Army. Prince Huai entered the Capital to drive out the Xiliang Army, resulting in a redistribution of resources in Tianchuan City.

As Chen Mo took power and moved the capital here, the city’s resources were once again redistributed.

Xu Guozhong’s Prime Minister’s Mansion thus became Chen Mo’s residence. However, this residence was severely damaged at the time and is currently undergoing repairs.

The residences of King Chong, Prince Huai, and others in the Capital were confiscated and turned over to the Imperial Household. Chen Mo then allocated them to Geng Songfu and the others.

Once they entered the city, Chen Mo immediately received the news and summoned them to the Prince Wei’s Mansion to meet him.

Welcomed by Sun Meng, Geng Songfu and others stepped into the magnificent residence, taking their seats in a flower hall adorned with rosewood screens. The maid immediately served hot tea and then withdrew gently.

A look of unconcealed joy appeared on the wrinkled face of Chen Cultivator, who said, "It has been ten years since I left the Capital. Returning now feels truly like a lifetime ago."

Although he had resigned voluntarily to return home, it was under a myriad of helpless circumstances. The court was in chaos, with rampant corruption and factions. Although he was a renowned Great Scholar, without holding real power, unwilling to align with Xu Guozhong, he resigned when he saw that change was impossible.

Zuo Lianglun couldn’t help but sigh, "The wheel of fortune truly takes turns."

"Where is the Prince?" Geng Songfu sipped his tea and asked Sun Meng.

"Just after the morning court, the Prince is still in the Imperial Palace. However, the Prince has already been informed of your arrival, and he should be on his way now. Ladies and gentlemen, please wait a moment," Sun Meng replied.

With that, they suppressed their excitement. Geng Songfu asked Sun Meng, "Is the court very busy lately?"

Sun Meng nodded, then smiled, "Once you take office, you’ll know."

Their expressions paused slightly, and Zuo Lianglun then asked Sun Meng about the situation in Luonan to pass the time.

The information sent over was somewhat vague, and it required more detailed understanding.

After a more comprehensive understanding, Geng Songfu said, "The Prince is truly an esteemed noble to old me. Without the Prince, I wouldn’t be here today."

They didn’t wait long before loud laughter sounded from outside the hall: "Mr. Geng, Elder Chen, Lord Zuo, you’ve finally arrived."

Chen Mo, dressed in a Python Robe, quickly walked in with Xia Zhining.

"Uncle Geng," Xia Zhining greeted Geng Songfu with a bow. 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝘦𝓌𝑒𝑏𝑛𝑜𝘷𝑒𝘭.𝒸𝘰𝑚

"Prince, Madam..."

Geng Songfu and the others hurriedly rose to greet them, bowing in respect.

"There’s no need for formalities, please, have a seat." Chen Mo stepped forward with a courteous hand gesture.

The three of them looked solemnly at Chen Mo and said, "Thank you, Prince."

Chen Mo sat at the head of the table, and Xia Zhining, knowing they were about to discuss court affairs, took her leave after greeting Geng Songfu.

Chen Mo warmly said, "Although the rebels have been eliminated, back when Xu Guozhong and Lu Sheng were in power, they harmed too many ministers, resulting in a multitude of court affairs and a shortage of officials. Many tasks are unattended. Your arrival is timely, perfect for taking charge of the Six Ministries and laboring for the court and Your Majesty."

The three became serious, with Zuo Lianglun speaking first, "Rest assured, Prince, this official will certainly do his utmost to relieve the burdens of Prince Wei."

Subsequently, Geng Songfu and Chen Cultivator echoed the sentiment.

There was a bit more joy on Chen Mo’s face, then he turned to Chen Cultivator, "Elder Chen, has the list of Advanced Scholars for the Provincial Examination been released?"

"Just planning to report to the Prince; here’s the list for your review." Chen Cultivator handed over the copied list to Chen Mo.

The list contained a total of two hundred fifteen names. Chen Mo glanced at it broadly, mainly noting the top five.

Chen Cultivator said, "Prince, now that the Provincial Examination has concluded, I’m not sure whether to hold the Palace Examination in the Four States or..."

Chen Mo understood his intention, saying, "Let’s have it in Xiangyang. The world is unsettled, and the realm is still unsafe. Summoning them to the Capital for the Palace Examination might incur many complications. The timing is right as I plan to return to Xiangyang, so please, Elder Chen, prepare the examination questions for the Palace Examination, and I will bring them back with me."

Despite some disappointment that the Palace Examination would not be held in the Capital, Chen Cultivator understood and nodded.

With a pensive gaze, Chen Mo then looked at Geng Songfu, "Among these people, Mr. Geng, who do you think has substantial potential?"

Although the list was in Chen Mo’s hand, assessment for officialdom requires comprehensive judgment.

Geng Songfu glanced at Zuo Lianglun and Chen Cultivator, saying, "Frankly, Prince, on our way here, I discussed this with Lord Zuo and Lord Chen, but each of us has different opinions."