Chapter 935: Chapter 935 - 935 Pointing Out

Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Gu Chengye remained stunned for a moment. “However, that was a disaster year. When peace is desired, stricter punishments are often necessary.”

“However,” Gu Chengrui agreed. “The principle of harsh punishment for security extends beyond times of disaster, applying equally to critical industries.

“It is an inviolable rule. Take the river, for example. Regardless of disaster years, anyone who dares to cut corners or neglect their duties commits a serious offense.

“The medical field is no exception. Even slight negligence can result in the loss of countless lives.

“Additionally, this is a new department, akin to a newly appointed official. Establishing one’s authority is crucial during this period. Those who dare to challenge it must face the consequences.”

Gu Chengrui looked at him and said, “Perhaps you haven’t encountered a real crisis yet, which explains your lingering kindness.

“Or perhaps you believe their actions were not serious enough to warrant your attention. Nevertheless, either viewpoint will significantly limit your potential as an official. This is likely why the Emperor has yet to assign you any duties.

“If not for your outstanding results, he wouldn’t have kept you waiting this long.

“While assisting me, you should also consider your future. If you find yourself unsuited to the intricacies of officialdom, perhaps teaching at the academy would be a better fit.”

Though slightly annoyed by Gu Chengrui’s words, Gu Chengye found himself pondering their meaning. Could he have been genuinely mistaken?

Upon returning home that night, he found the study’s light still on. Hesitantly approaching, he knocked. “Father, are you still awake?”

“Chengye, you’re back. Come in,” Mr. Gu replied, momentarily surprised. He set down his pen and looked up.

“I heard you’ve been assigned to work with Chengrui. How is it? Are you adjusting well?” Mr. Gu inquired.

“It’s going well. He takes good care of me,” Gu Chengye replied with a smile.

He then sat down facing his father and asked, “If you were the Emperor, how would you handle a situation where a messenger on an urgent 800-mile journey delayed a critical document due to stopping to help someone?”

“That wouldn’t even be a question—execution,” Mr. Gu asserted.

“Urgent documents over such distances typically concern war or major disasters. Even a quarter-hour delay could drastically alter the situation, especially during war. A moment’s delay could mean losing a city.”

Mr. Gu’s face paused slightly upon seeing his son’s growing paleness. “Who asked you this question?”

“The Emperor, during Chenchen’s one-month-old celebration,” Gu Chengye admitted. He then shared the events he’d dealt with that day and Gu Chengrui’s subsequent remarks.

After hearing everything, Mr. Gu remained stunned for a while. Finally, he sighed and said, “It seems your mother, and I may have sheltered you too well. You lack experience, which led to a lapse in judgment regarding the appropriate course of action.

“Since Chengrui has offered you an opportunity, stay by his side for a while and observe how others handle various situations. If the Emperor doesn’t assign you any tasks after the New Year, it might be best to consider returning to your hometown and teaching at the academy.”

Gu Chengye understood his father’s point. He was just one scholar among many in the capital, struggling to find his place. Returning to his hometown and securing a position seemed like the better option.

“Thank you, Father,” Gu Chengye replied. “It’s getting late. You should rest as well. I’ll head back now..”