"Enough!"
As the argument between the two men grew fiercer, Xiao Jinxuan finally spoke with a cold snort.
His voice was not loud, yet it instantly silenced the entire hall.
Jiang Jingcheng and Li Bingzhang exchanged a look before both fell silent.
But after another glance at each other, they both snorted and turned away.
Watching this, Xiao Jinxuan turned a cold gaze on Jiang Jingcheng. "Marquis Jiang, I settled the matter of the Top Graduate title yesterday."
"Jiang Xiaobai could hold his own against the ministers in the Imperial Court and offer counsel to the nation. That proves he is not wholly unworthy of the title."
"Moreover, the Examination Scandal has yet to be resolved."
"If I strip him of his title now, would that not lead everyone under heaven to believe I have already decided Jiang Xiaobai alone was responsible?"
At this, Xiao Jinxuan swept his gaze over the officials. "Therefore, I will not permit it."
"Your Majesty..."
"Say no more, Marquis Jiang."
Xiao Jinxuan said evenly, "Jiang Xiaobai's title of Top Graduate cannot be revoked for now. We shall weigh his merits and faults once the Examination Scandal has been resolved."
"Your Majesty is wise!"
Li Bingzhang immediately bowed upon hearing this. After a pause, he added, "However... it is indeed true that the students have surrounded the Clear Pavilion!"
"If Jiang Xiaobai truly renounces his title before those students, that would hardly be proper!"
"Indeed."
Xiao Jinxuan nodded slightly. "I will draft an edict and have it delivered to the Clear Pavilion to silence those wagging tongues!"
"Thank you, Your Majesty!"
A smile appeared on Li Bingzhang's face.
"Furthermore, regarding Jiang Xiaobai marrying into the Chancellor's Residence..."
Xiao Jinxuan nodded slightly and looked toward Jiang Jingcheng. "I did, after all, give my word yesterday..."
"Your Majesty!"