Book Synopsis
Book Tags
Donation Rankings
Comment
0 Comments
You May Also Like
墨書 Inktalez
He pointed at the opposing officials and said, word by word, "My will is set. Who dares to obstruct? They shall be executed without mercy!"
In the eyes of the Jiajing Emperor, a cold glint flickered, and his words revealed an undeniable determination. He knew that this reform would inevitably touch many interests and face considerable opposition, but he would not back down. What he wanted was a brand new, powerful Ming Dynasty, not a decaying dynasty on the brink of extinction.
The great hall fell silent; the ministers were intimidated by the murderous aura of the Jiajing Emperor and dared not speak further. They understood that the Jiajing Emperor had made up his mind—this reform was imperative.
"Yang Tinghe!" The Jiajing Emperor's gaze fell upon Yang Tinghe, who had remained silent in the crowd.
Yang Tinghe stepped forward and bowed, saying, "I am here."
"I appoint you as the Chief Minister, fully responsible for implementing the new policies!" The Jiajing Emperor's voice carried an undeniable authority.
Yang Tinghe felt a chill in his heart; he knew this was a daunting task filled with risks. However, he did not hesitate for a moment. He raised his head, looked firmly at the Jiajing Emperor, and said, "I accept your command!"
Yang Tinghe took the imperial edict from the Jiajing Emperor's hands. The heavy weight pressed down on him, more like a burden on his heart. He took a deep breath and looked steadfastly at the Jiajing Emperor, saying, "I will do my utmost to live up to Your Majesty's expectations!"
The Jiajing Emperor nodded in satisfaction, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes. He understood these old foxes too well; although there was fierce opposition in the court today, it was not entirely united. Yang Tinghe was upright and capable; having him spearhead the new policies would best silence dissent.
"Minister Yang, I know that implementing the new policies will face significant resistance," the Jiajing Emperor's tone softened slightly. "But remember, I am your strongest support. Whoever dares to obstruct you can act freely; I will bear all consequences!"
"Your Majesty, I humbly thank you!" Yang Tinghe knelt again, but his heart was in turmoil. The words of the Jiajing Emperor seemed to bolster him, yet they also served as a warning, making it clear that the new policies must succeed and cannot fail.
After receiving the imperial edict, Yang Tinghe wasted no time and immediately began preparing to implement the new policies. He understood that to break away from old systems and promote new reforms, he first needed to understand the people's sentiments and gain their support.
Thus, he disguised himself and set out on a journey, accompanied by a few attendants, traveling lightly as he headed south to immerse himself in the lives of the common people. He visited fields and talked with farmers to learn about their hardships; he wandered through markets and conversed with merchants and citizens to listen to their voices.
"Old man, how is this year's harvest?" Yang Tinghe asked with concern as he sat on the edge of a field, addressing an Old Farmer who was working diligently.
The Old Farmer looked up at the plainly dressed yet dignified stranger with some confusion. "It's alright, thanks to the heavens. This year has been favorable with good weather, so the harvest is not bad."
"That's good to hear," Yang Tinghe nodded and continued, "What do you think of the current policies of the court? Is there anything that needs improvement?"
Upon hearing this, the Old Farmer set down his hoe and sighed. "Sir, you wouldn't know—taxes are heavier each year. We farmers work hard all year round, but in the end, how much do we really keep? Sigh!"
Yang Tinghe listened patiently, nodding occasionally to show his understanding. He knew that the Old Farmer's words were not an isolated case but reflected the reality of countless farmers in the Ming Dynasty.
During his visits, Yang Tinghe discovered that one of the biggest problems in the Ming Dynasty was severe land consolidation, bureaucratic corruption, and the suffering of the common people. He resolved to change all of this so that people could live better lives.
Upon returning to the capital, Yang Tinghe meticulously documented his observations and thoughts in a memorial and presented it to the Jiajing Emperor.
The Jiajing Emperor read through the memorial carefully, occasionally furrowing his brow or relaxing it. He realized that Yang Tinghe was speaking the truth—the issues facing the Ming Dynasty were even more serious than he had imagined.
"Yang Aiqing, I am aware of everything you have mentioned," said the Jiajing Emperor as he set down the memorial and looked at Yang Tinghe. "I trust you; go ahead and act on your plans. I will fully support you!"
"Your servant thanks you for your great kindness!" Yang Tinghe felt a surge of emotion in his heart; he knew that the burden on his shoulders had become heavier.
He began to take measures to rectify the administration and reform corrupt practices. He acted decisively, dismissing a group of corrupt officials and promoting a number of talented and ambitious young officials, clearing the way for the implementation of new policies. He also reformed the tax system, reducing the burden on farmers and encouraging commercial development. For a time, the Ming Dynasty flourished with vitality.
However, Yang Tinghe's reforms threatened the interests of certain individuals, who began to secretly obstruct him and even slander him maliciously.
One day, while Yang Tinghe was reviewing memorials in his study, the steward suddenly reported, "Sir, someone from the palace has arrived, claiming there is an urgent matter to discuss."
Yang Tinghe was taken aback; he put down the memorials and quickly said, "Hurry, please let them in!"
Comment 0 Comment Count