The Jing Lord looked nervous, like a student faced with a surprise examination. After pondering for a moment, he gave a light cough and said slowly, "Sage Kong believed that if the people were guided through administrative measures and governed and regulated through penal law, they would merely avoid wrongdoing for the time being, without developing a sense of shame. It would not mean they no longer wished to commit crimes. But if the people were guided through morality and regulated through ritual teachings, they would not only develop a sense of shame and willingly refrain from crime, but also submit to their rulers through morality and ritual teachings."
"Well said." Fang Yun nodded lightly.
The Jing Lord could not help smiling. He raised his chin slightly, proud to have earned Fang Yun's praise.
The Empress Dowager caught this out of the corner of her eye and frowned slightly.
Some officials noticed the Jing Lord's reaction and sighed inwardly. Even the ruler of a kingdom had to bow his head before Fang Yun. Though this young sovereign knew Fang Yun intended to wield power over court and country, he still could not conceal his deep-rooted admiration and envy. A word of praise from Fang Yun was enough to leave him pleased with himself.
Yet the officials could only feel helpless. It was not just their sovereign; even they would have felt their hearts blossom with joy if Fang Yun praised them once.
After all, Fang Yun stood foremost beneath the Sages.
The Marquis Wu Chariot turned slightly, positioning Fang Yun sideways to face the Jing Lord and the assembled ministers.
Fang Yun said, "Sage Kong spoke these words, and His Majesty understands this principle as well. Surely none of my colleagues would oppose Sage Kong's words?"
Some officials inwardly rolled