Pei Xiu no longer dared to hide anything.
He knelt respectfully before Cao Mao and told him every one of his thoughts.
He did not even conceal the less agreeable parts.
"I believed that reforming noble ranks would dishearten the ministers who had rendered meritorious service, so I sought out Sima Yan. I knew he was on friendly terms with Your Majesty and hoped to persuade Your Majesty through him. I never imagined..."
Seeing how honest Pei Xiu was being, Cao Mao glanced at Zhang Hua, a hint of teasing in his eyes.
Watching his emperor indulge his mischievous tastes, Zhang Hua could not help shaking his head.
Only after Pei Xiu finished speaking did Cao Mao look as though he finally understood.
"So that was it... Zhong Shiji did speak to me about the matter of noble ranks. I think you might be able to accomplish it."
"Ah?"
"Your Majesty, this matter..."
"What is it?"
"If I undertake it, Your Majesty can certainly rest assured!"
Pei Xiu changed tack and hurriedly picked up Cao Mao's words.
Seeing his brimming confidence, Cao Mao finally said solemnly, "Good. I shall entrust this matter to you as well, then. Do not worry about disheartening the ministers. Just make sure you do not dishearten me."
"I have always valued you. Everyone says you could hold the position of Director of the Secretariat in the future. Go back and give it some careful thought."
Pei Xiu repeatedly bowed and thanked Cao Mao for his great kindness before turning to leave.
Once he was gone, Cao Mao finally could not restrain himself and burst out laughing.
Zhang Hua said with a smile, "How could Lord Pei withstand such torment from Your Majesty..."
"Who told him to keep standing on the wrong side? He needs to