What was an upright minister?
Upright in speech, upright in heart, upright in nature.
Untangled by interests or consequences, he spoke his mind without leaving himself any room to retreat, wielding his right to remonstrate before returning it, whole and unblemished, to his sovereign.
The Zhou's Biographies of Loyal Ministers might yet include his name-Wang Zhanzheng.
The emperor said nothing, and his ministers likewise held their tongues.
After a long silence, Emperor Jing of Zhou leaned back in his chair and finally spoke.
"Minister Wang, put your hat back on."
Wang Kan did not move.
"I have said all I have to say. Whether I live or die rests with Your Majesty.
Whether I wear my hat no longer matters."
He entrusted himself to his sovereign, from crown to heel, holding nothing back.
This was neither coercion nor intimidation, but a true and heartfelt declaration...
My words have been spoken. This body is yours.
At the sight, Emperor Jing of Zhou felt his heart ease. He smiled calmly.
"How fortunate I am to have gained an upright minister in this lifetime."
"My ministers, does anyone else have something to say?"
"Your Majesty!"
Clad in a purple robe and jade belt, Shen Duan stepped slowly out from the ranks of the civil officials, his stride unhurried, his robe's hem undisturbed.
He did not look at Wang Kan. First, he bowed toward the Imperial Throne, then turned sideways.
From above, he looked down upon the green-clad figure kneeling on the floor.
"Your Majesty, I am old.
The talents of this year's examination make me feel as though I am witnessing the flourishing days of the Ren Dynasty once more!"
Having offered his praise, Shen Duan changed tack.
"Yet the young have not gained wisdom.
Kou Laigong removed his hat and rebuked