The wavering officials were now like grass on a wall, swaying with the breeze.
If they thought one side spoke reasonably, they would nod in agreement. If they believed what the other side said made sense, they would change their minds.
Even Emperor Yue found it hard to discern at this moment. This issue was far from being as simple as two candidates not passing the exam. It seemed to involve a lot more behind the scenes.
He asked, "What evidence?"
Shen Cong replied, "Your Majesty, one day when I entered the palace, you asked me about these two individuals who were staying at my mansion. I mentioned that some of the candidates were in difficult circumstances. You showed compassion towards them, and from that day on, you had me register and keep track of these candidates. On that day, I also brought out the papers of Hu Zhonghua and Wu Chaoping for you to see…"
Upon being reminded, Emperor Yue remembered this incident.
