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墨書 Inktalez
Chapter 207: Reassurance
"Your Majesty, the Benevolent and Wise!"
Regardless of their true thoughts, the emperor spoke of virtuous deeds, and as subjects, they could only flatter him. To dare to refute would be tantamount to treason.
The emperor immediately ordered Wei Zheng to draft an edict, stating: "The use of liquor is for enjoyment; the nourishment from chaff brings forth flavors in abundance. However, those who indulge become lost in their pursuits; the lazy populace rushes towards their desires.
At present, the beacons still signal danger, the weapons have not yet been sheathed, the harvests are poor, and the markets are bustling. Many are driven by greed, and there are still numerous frivolities. The expenses for extravagant feasts and lavish banquets have increased significantly. The remedy for these issues lies in expediency; officials and citizens across the realm should cut back on slaughter and drinking."
Once Wei Zheng completed the edict, Li Jian Cheng announced: "From this day forth, I shall also set an example for all princes and ministers. Aside from the Retired Emperor and Empress Dowager who will continue to receive their usual provisions, all expenses from me and the Queen shall be reduced.
Meals shall not exceed one bowl and three dishes, and seasonal clothing shall not be frequently woven. All palace maidens of suitable age shall be released, with rewards of money and silk for their marriages."
Before the civil and military officials could offer their praises, the emperor instructed the Minister of Rites: "For prefectures that have stabilized, we should further encourage agriculture and sericulture. Each prefect and county magistrate must clearly guide the local populace to work diligently without delay, ensuring simplicity to meet my expectations."
Minister of Rites Xiao Cong agreed promptly. The emperor then issued decrees to abolish corvée labor and restrict forced labor, all aimed at providing a good environment for the people to recuperate.
By dusk, when the emperor released everyone from the palace, those who had been amicable moments before suddenly formed small groups outside the palace gates, subtly distancing themselves from one another.
The Noble Families of Guanlong remained undoubtedly the most prominent since the Royal Family also belonged to Guanlong. Additionally, Duke Wei Li Jing was a significant minister overseeing provincial troops.
Next were the Southern Aristocracy; with the Queen and Minister of Rites present, even Guanlong would not dare provoke them easily. However, this prominence was primarily due to the Xiao Family alone; other families from Jiangnan had relatively ordinary careers.
Following them were the Shandong Gentry. After Li Jian Cheng took control of Jinyang, many flocked to him; although there were no particularly distinguished figures among them now, their numbers were considerable.
Moreover, generals like Xu Shijie, Dan Xiongxin, and Qin Shubao hailed from Shandong. While they did not come from prestigious families, they were still recognized as Shandong individuals with familial ties through marriage.
Lastly were the rising heroes from chaotic times who had surrendered; they were viewed as rebellious commoners by aristocratic ministers. Even though they now held high positions, they were not regarded as peers and formed one of the most excluded groups.
After changing his clothes, Li Jian Cheng proceeded to Tai'an Palace to pay respects to the Retired Emperor. He felt grateful that his father was willing to relinquish this position.
Even with great confidence, it was still an unpleasant sight when conflicts arose.
Along the way, many palace maids bowed deeply. They had been in the palace for many years, and some were already at the age when they should be released, but with the Sui Emperor and the Queen lingering in Jiangdu, no one dared to let them out without an imperial decree.
In Tai'an Palace, the banquet had just concluded, and most of the royal family had been dispatched by the Emperor to serve the Retired Emperor, creating quite a lively atmosphere.
After greeting some elder members of the royal family, Li Jian Cheng entered Tai'an Palace and noticed Li Yan looking somewhat lonely. However, upon seeing him, Li Yan immediately revealed a joyful expression.
Li Jian Cheng performed the customary greetings to his father and took a seat at the lower end of the table. The two of them looked at each other's Dragon Robes and Crowns in silence for a moment. After a long pause, Li Yan sighed, "I never expected that we father and son would be so esteemed."
After expressing his feelings, Li Yan quickly added, "My son, just now several relatives expressed their dissatisfaction with their titles while pretending to be drunk. They think that being made a Duke is too small a reward; they aspire to titles like Xiaogong."
"Father, if I grant our relatives Duke titles, they will then complain about why they cannot have Prince Titles like Shimin Xuanba. When will people's desires ever be satisfied?
Even with Prince Titles, they will scheme for real territories. Since there will always be discontent, it might be better to start by lowering their expectations."
Li Yan reminded him, "We should not treat the royal family too harshly. Not only do they have grievances, but if word gets out, it will also attract public criticism."
The Emperor serves as a model for propriety; uniting the clan is also very important. Li Jian Cheng nodded in agreement, "In these next couple of years, I will promote several relatives to higher ranks."
Li Yan nodded but wanted to say more; however, he swallowed his words. Although he was the Retired Emperor, his son had always been very opinionated since childhood. Speaking too much might hurt their father-son relationship, so he decided against it.
Seeing this, Li Jian Cheng said, "Father, what political views do you have that you would keep from me? I came here specifically to hear your guidance."
Li Yan was taken aback; this son of his had never sought his advice when conquering the world. Why was he suddenly being so courteous now that he had taken power?
Li Jian Cheng smiled and said, "One person's wisdom is limited; many minds are better than one. In matters of state that cannot be discussed with ministers, who else can help me but you?
You supported me in ascending the throne; I still need your assistance. In a few years' time, you can also take the Empress on a tour of Luoyang."
Li Yan stared intently into his son's eyes, trying to discern whether this was a test. Li Jian Cheng met his gaze calmly.
After a moment, Li Yan happily replied, "Good. But rest assured, I know there cannot be two suns in the sky or two kings among men. Some matters are best kept between us."
Li Yan, despite already having grandchildren, still felt youthful and ambitious at his age. He had thought his opportunities were gone, but now he saw a chance to assist his son in governing the realm, believing he could make a significant contribution.
After discussing their thoughts, the previous barriers between father and son dissipated. Li Yan felt rejuvenated and eagerly told his son, "Guanlong needs to be suppressed, but there's no need to rush. From what I know of Xiao Cong, he will soon resign from the position of Minister of Rites. When that happens, there will inevitably be disputes within Guanlong regarding the leadership of the Ministry of Rites.
Li Jing, Luo Yi, and Dan Xiongxin should also share some military power with Shimin, Yuanji, and other members of the Royal Family. They need opportunities to achieve merit. The remaining threats to the realm are merely petty bandits. Although most of the Royal Family lacks virtue, they are still more trustworthy than outsiders.
Moreover, since you already have a Legitimate Eldest Son, you should marry more consorts. Having too few legitimate heirs in the Royal Family can lead to trouble. Additionally, this would help pacify the Shandong Gentry...
It wasn't until midnight that Li Jian Cheng managed to extricate himself from their conversation. Li Yan had been holding back a wealth of political opinions for so long; although most of them were things Li Jian Cheng already knew, some were indeed useful insights.
As for Li Yan's repeated emphasis on pacifying and treating the Royal Family well, wasn't he here to appease the greatest clan in the realm?
Li Jian Cheng was already the heir of the Li Clan. Even without ascending to the throne, no distant relative would dare to criticize him. Now that he had become emperor, the principles of ruler and minister took precedence over familial ties.
Only Li Yan could cast doubt on his filial piety with a single word.
……………
(End of Chapter)
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