"Therefore, I shall award this fifth slot to the imperial uncle, in recognition of his achievements."
Liu Xie's voice was filled with wistful emotion.
In truth, however, his heart remained utterly unmoved.
His reason for giving this slot to Dong Cheng was the same as for giving one to Yuan Xi: both were for political correctness, their symbolic significance outweighing their practical value.
Inside the great hall, Dong Zhong froze for a moment before becoming wild with joy. Overwhelmed with excitement, he thanked the emperor. "Thank you, Your Majesty! Thank you, Your Majesty!"
He had never imagined that his family would actually manage to snag a slot on the third tier!
It was practically a windfall!
Seeing Dong Zhong's delight, Fu Wan and Yang Biao both felt rather uncomfortable, but neither could say much.
Although they had nominally participated in helping the Son of Heaven escape Cao Cao's clutches, they had actually done nothing, so they could hardly have the gall to fight for a slot.
"That damned Dong Cheng! I knew he lied to me back then. That bastard hid his secrets deep and kept his lips sealed tight."
Fu Wan cursed indignantly to himself.
Back then, Dong Cheng had acted as though he knew nothing in front of him. Looking back now, that fellow had concealed the most and kept the tightest lips.
After announcing the five slots, Liu Xie said, "For now, these five shall be the candidates for the third tier. After the court assembly, I shall gradually select those for the second and first tiers."
"My ministers, you must all strive hard."
After those meaningful words, Liu Xie dismissed the court, rose, and left the great hall.
Once he left, the great hall immediately erupted into a clamor.
The court officials flocked to congratulate Guo