Liu Heng was discussing some recent affairs of state with Jia Yi.
Before leaving, Luo Xin had taken a large group of veteran ministers to Shandong, leaving some of the younger generation in Chang'an. In a sense, he had cleared away the last group who might obstruct Liu Heng's governance.
Jia Yi was certainly not the Chancellor; he did not yet have the qualifications. But he was now a close minister to the emperor and was rapidly building his experience.
"Your Majesty!"
The court eunuch who had always attended Liu Heng entered the hall, his face visibly anxious. "Your Majesty, word has just arrived. The Grand Chancellor has passed away in Luoyang!"
"What?"
Both Liu Heng and Jia Yi instantly paled, as though struck by a heavy blow.
Jia Yi was deeply grieved as well. He was a man of feeling, and Luo Xin had been both his benefactor and one of those who had recommended him for office. Hearing this news, he was naturally overcome with sorrow.
But both men knew Luo Xin's age. Moreover, he had poured his heart's blood into his work over the years. Perhaps his body had long since been unable to bear it, and he had merely held on until the emperor came of age and assumed personal rule.
Though young, Liu Heng was resolute. He soon forcibly suppressed the turmoil in his heart and said, "Summon the ministers to the palace."
News of Luo Xin's death had come far too swiftly. The meritorious nobles of Chang'an had been watching Luoyang at every moment. By the time the messenger delivered the news to the imperial palace, many families had also learned of it and had already put on their court robes at home. Sure enough, just as they had expected, orders soon arrived for