Since Lin Yuan’s ascension to the throne, the Song Manor had become as lively as the marketplace, and Song Shizhao had to buy the houses on both sides in order to accommodate all the guests.

Countless scholars wanted to become his disciple, so that they could use this springboard to soar upward.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Song Shizhao saw another group of scholars before he could return to the room.

Zheng Qingfeng was already waiting here.

“Mister.” Zheng Qingfeng cupped his hands.

Song Shizhao returned the salute and said, “Lord Zheng.”

The chessboard had already been set up, Zheng Qingfeng said with a smile: “Mister, have a game with this official?”

Song Shizhao sat opposite Zheng Qingfeng: “Lord Zheng, please.”

The battle on the chessboard was in full swing, and Zheng Qingfeng suddenly asked, “His Majesty’s attack on the aristocratic families is to establish prestige and authority.”

Song Shizhao placed down a chess piece with a smile on his face: “The Son of Heaven has ascended the throne, and now is the time to set the tone. If the aristocratic families are strong, the emperor will be weak. If the emperor is strong, the aristocratic families will be weak.”

“The children of aristocratic families are different from the children of poor families. They have been studying academics since childhood. Even if His Majesty suppresses them, he will not completely abandon using them either.” Zheng Qingfeng shook his head. “His Majesty’s move will chill the hearts of all the descendants of aristocratic families in the world. Why doesn’t Mister try and persuade His Majesty?”

Song Shizhao: “How to persuade? Persuade His Majesty that if there are no aristocratic families in this world, there will be no one to govern the people? Persuade His Majesty, the world today is still not His Majesty’s world? Allowing the aristocratic families to grow big, their descendants become officials, establish cliques and factions in the court, and even if the imperial decrees leave the capital, it must depend on the face of the aristocratic families?”

Zheng Qingfeng was stunned for a moment. He himself was a son of an aristocratic family. He widened his eyes and said: “Why does Mister think so narrowly?”

“Narrow?” Song Shizhao smiled, “Let me ask you, how do you define the emperor?”

Zheng Qingfeng: “The one who commands the people of the world.”

Song Shizhao: “Wrong, he is the one who holds the authority and power in the world.”

Zheng Qingfeng’s face revealed fear: “Mister’s meaning…..His Majesty wants…..His Majesty wants…..”

Song Shizhao nodded: “The aristocratic families are like wolves, wolves run in packs, and they each occupy a city, just like in the Yuan Dynasty, the officials sent by the emperor have to befriend them, and the emperor’s decrees could be ignored. If things go on like this, who will rule the world? The emperor? Or the aristocratic families?”

“There are countless aristocratic families, and they have friendly relationships with each other.”

“There is only one emperor.”

“Lord Zheng, do you understand?” Song Shizhao placed down his last chess piece, the power of the dragon was formed, and Zheng Qingfeng was defeated.

Zheng Qingfeng sighed and said, “There is no place to turn back?”

Song Shizhao: “Lord Zheng is from an aristocratic family, and it is inevitable that you will feel sad, but His Majesty is no longer the way he used to be, and he will not kill and execute his enemies immediately. The descendants of the aristocratic families are usable, but they are used because they are people with lofty ideals, and not because they are the children of what family. Do you understand?”

Zheng Qingfeng bowed his head: “Listening to what Mister said, this official has a sudden flash of insight and all is clear.”

Song Shizhao said quickly: “Lord Zheng is a wise man. Being loyal to His Majesty means loyalty to the nation.”

Zheng Qingfeng sighed and said, “It is I who is narrow-minded…..”

Song Shizhao said with a smile: “Lord Zheng, you are one of the rare sensible people in the world. Believe it or not, if I had said this to the children of the aristocratic families outside, they would definitely disagree, because in their hearts, the family and clan is the most important, while the monarch is less so. They serve the emperor for the name of their family, not for the benefit of the emperor.”

Zheng Qingfeng understood: “His Majesty wants to hold the imperial examination?”

Song Shizhao stroked his beard: “Exactly.”

When Zheng Qingfeng left, he turned to look at the plaque of Song Manor hanging over the front doors.

It was not that His Majesty didn’t want to use the children of the aristocratic families, he just wanted…..the children of the aristocratic families to take off that shell of theirs before being used by him.

They must be loyal to the Ming Dynasty, loyal to the emperor, and loyal to the imperial power.

Rather than to the aristocratic families.

The aristocratic families did not come to a dead end.

But they have also come to a dead end.

Zheng Qingfeng got on the carriage and thought about his own life.

Although the Zheng family was an aristocratic family, the aristocratic families were also divided into large and small, as well as the rich and the poor. The Zheng family had a wealth of books, but they were all accumulated by their ancestors. When it came to money, they were really poor. His father once told him that just because one is trapped for a while, one would never be trapped forever.

So long as the children in the family had motivations, no matter what, they could keep the Zheng family’s signboard. So long as the signboard was there, the Zheng family could still be an official.

And Zheng Qingfeng really became an official. He was introduced by relatives and friends and became an official.

He saw with his own eyes that the officials dispatched over by Dadu fell under the control of the local aristocratic families. Without the approval of the aristocratic families, the imperial decree could not even go out of the government office, let alone be implemented.

In the city, the aristocratic families had been entrenched for a hundred years, and they knew the population of the city like the palm of their hand. Half of the population in the city were slaves of the aristocratic families.

Before, he thought the aristocratic families did the right thing.

After all, the emperor was foolish and incompetent, and his decrees were of no benefit to the people. Fortunately, there was the supervision of the aristocratic families.

This would allow the common people to recuperate.

But at this moment, Zheng Qingfeng shuddered at the thought of the past.

That was imperial power! From ancient times to the present, who would be willing to let others share in the imperial power?

Gross insubordination was a capital offense.

Zheng Qingfeng sighed and said to the driver, “No need to go to the Wu Manor, we go back home.”

The driver said strangely: “My lord, it’s still early.”

Zheng Qingfeng shook his head: “Go back to the manor.”

The coachman had to turn the horse’s head.

Lin Yuan was now meeting with capable and learned people.

He had the heart to recruit talents, but at this moment he was not recruiting officials to govern the country.

But craftsmen.

The status of craftsmen had always been low. Scholars, farmers, craftsmen and then merchants. It seemed that merchants were the lowest class, but after the Song and Yuan dynasties, the status of merchants had long been changed from before.

In fact, craftsmen were the ones with the lowest status.

However, the national scientific and technological capabilities depend on craftsmen.

A knife, a pot, and a boat were all achievements of a craftsman.

There was no benefit for a craftsman to experiment and invent, and there was no harm in following the old rules.

Lin Yuan now hoped to build stronger firearms as soon as possible. Chinese firearms have a long history and could be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. Gunpowder came into existence in the Qin and Han Dynasties and was used in the battlefield in the Tang Dynasty.

During the Song Dynasty, firearms went a step further, and the flintlock appeared.

The Yuan Dynasty improved the flintlock, and called it the fire gun.

In the Ming Dynasty, the power of firearms was a rare greatness. There were hand guns, bird guns, cannons and fire arrows, not only that, but also landmines and water mines.

However, the technology of the Ming Dynasty was not enough, and it was unable to create a tube-valve type gun body with a rear-loading function.

It was Portugal’s invasion that caused the rulers of the Ming Dynasty to discover that Westerners’ artillery was better.

So the Ming Dynasty began to learn foreign advanced technology.

It was a pity that although they learned it and improved and invented stronger guns, they didn’t manage to find a way to mass-produce it, and there was no production line.

But even so, the firearms in the Ming Dynasty were stronger than in most parts of the world.

However, in the Qing Dynasty, although the Qing Dynasty also improved firearms, but because it was too conservative and isolated, it led to their development of firearms falling far behind the West, allowing the imperial powers to smash down the doors of the Qing Dynasty, and the Qing Dynasty was unable to fight back at all.

What Lin Yuan wanted was to gather the talents in the world, establish a production line, and be able to manufacture on a large scale.

At this time, the people kneeling below were all craftsmen from all regions of the empire. When Lin Yuan’s summons were sent, all the cities sent these people over.

His decree had not been discounted at all at this time.

He didn’t expect progress within just a few years, or even a decade or a few decades or even within his lifetime, but he had to make a head start, and only when this start was made could a habit be formed.

“All of you are the backbone of Zhen’s national strength.” Lin Yuan said to the shivering craftsmen kneeling below, “Please rise.”

The craftsmen did not dare to move. They used to be frightened when they saw even a minor official, let alone the emperor.

Lin Yuan stood up, walked down into the hall, and helped up an old craftsman with gray hair.

“The old master is already of such advanced age, grant him a seat.” Lin Yuan ordered, and a eunuch brought over a chair.

The old master was so frightened that his face turned pale, and he almost knelt down to Lin Yuan again. If it wasn’t for Lin Yuan supporting him, he would definitely have thrown himself on the ground.

“Caomin…..caomin dare not…..” The old master sat on the chair like he was about to head to the execution ground.

Lin Yuan pressed down on the old master’s shoulders and said to everyone, “Zhen’s country is also your country, and your strength is the fortune of the country as well as the strength of the country.”

These words frightened the craftsmen.

They…..they were just ordinary people, how could they be associated with the prosperity of the country?

Lin Yuan said again: “Zhen has heard that there were fire cannons in the Yuan Dynasty, now the Ming Dynasty has been established, and should naturally take a step further to a higher level.”

“Zhen will never be stingy towards those who study craftsmanship and serve the country, so long as you are outstanding people and innovators, Zhen will reward you with titles of nobility.”

The craftsmen instantly stopped shaking.

A noble title? Noble title!

The noble titles in Lin Yuan’s hands were all empty titles, they represent no real power. They could not be hereditary, only lasted one generation, and moreover, they could not leave the capital.

But there was a salary, and one generation of nobility was enough for the descendants to make something of themselves.

Lin Yuan smiled and said: “The Great Ming is Zhen’s great Ming, and it is also your Great Ming. Zhen hopes that you all work together to strengthen our country’s strength and promote our country’s prestige!”

The foreheads of the craftsmen touched the ground, shouting loudly: “Long live my emperor!”

In addition, each lane in the capital was renamed districts, and each district had district chiefs, scribes, integrated household registration, and decrees were all issued by the central government.

The whole city of Beijing was like a rail link. The district chiefs were all the people who followed Lin Yuan when he first began his journey, and the positions of scribes were given to the children of the aristocratic families.

The imperial power was in the capital, the height of flourishing prosperity.

All the cities around the capital were captured by Zhu Yuanzhang, Chen Baisong and Li Congrong.

The army was stationed in the city, intimidating countless mice peeping in the dark.

These cities were all big cities, and all the officials in the cities were arrested, with the new officials taking office, new laws were followed and new orders were obeyed.

“Your Majesty, the people of the nation still need to be supported.” Song Shizhao remonstrated.

Lin Yuan was eating snacks, and waved to Song Shizhao: “Mister, come and sit, please eat.”

Song Shizhao sat down: “Now that Your Majesty has made drastic changes, I’m afraid of a backlash.”

Lin Yuan nodded: “What Mister said is correct, but now is the beginning of the new dynasty, and it is just the right time to make reforms. It will be difficult to reform when everything is settled.”

Song Shizhao sighed and said, “I’m afraid it won’t be a steady path.”

“The Sui Yang Emperor dug the Grand Canal, which was originally a good thing to benefit the country and the people. It could open up the five major rivers, not only open rivers, but also land roads that facilitate transporting armaments, and open up business routes. In this way, the country could be prosperous and the people could grow strong, but the result?” Song Shizhao cupped his hands, “Your Majesty, things still need to be taken slowly and gradually.”

Lin Yuan: “Zhen understands the reasons, and Zhen also understands Mister’s worries.”

“But Mister, in ancient times, the Qin State became strong from reforms, and now I am reforming the system, how do you know that my Great Ming will not become strong as well?”

Song Shizhao: “But what happened to Shang Yang (TN: philosopher and important statesman of Qin whose militaristic reforms in 356 and 350 BC played a key role in establishing Qin power, but died in the end at the hands of those nobles who despised him due to his reforms)?”

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “Sir, today is not the ancient times, there is no Qi, Chu, Yan, Zhao, and Han (TN: the Warring States).”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

“Mister, are you willing to be the Prime Minister?” Lin Yuan looked at him.

Song Shizhao couldn’t utter another word.

Lin Yuan asked again, “Mister, are you willing to assist Zhen?”

Song Shizhao bowed his head: “This official, dare not refuse, for the sake of the country and Your Majesty, I shall spare no effort until death put an end to my life.”

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev

The majestic imperial city stood still, the bell rang in the morning like thunder, the sun was shining, and there were no clouds to be seen.

The hundred officials stood outside the Chongtian Gate dressed in their official uniforms. Song Shizhao stood at the head of the hundred officials, the sun was scorching, and although Song Shizhao was old, at this moment he felt that he had returned to his prime, he never felt so young before!

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

These officials were all hurriedly gathered, including many old officials of the Yuan Dynasty. To let them appear was to declare to the world that Lin Yuan was a sage king, a mighty master, so all the old officials of the Yuan Dynasty were willing to bow their heads.

The three generals who entered the city stood right after Song Shizhao. The three wore battle armor and looked straight ahead.

The sound of the bell gradually died down.

Finally, a figure could be seen outside the Chongtian Gate.

This person wore a black robe, with wide sleeves that fell straight down to the sides of the legs. The robe was embroidered with red cloud patterns and a dragon flying amidst them. Its eyes were like torches, and its claws were lit with fire.

He walked like the momentum of the wind and had an extraordinary aura.

Song Shizhao knelt down first, and then the hundred officials knelt down behind him.

No one looked directly at the Son of Heaven.

Lin Yuan stood at the gate of Daming, all the civil and military officials had their heads bowed. At this time, the wind was gentle and the sky was clear.

He looked at the kneeling officials and knew that the ritual to “persuade him to enter” was at this time.

There were three pleas and two resignations, and only on the last plea could it be accepted.

Song Shizhao stood up at this time, and with him leading did the others get up.

Song Shizhao began to speak.

“In times of great chaos in the world, the common people are struggling to live, corrupt officials oppress the people, and the world has been suffering for a long time!”

“Only the King of the South takes the common people as his children and the world as his home, so that the old could be cared for, the young could have someone to depend on, and the people of the places under govern live and work in peace and contentment.”

“Today the world has settled, this official pleads with the King of the South, ascend to the throne as the emperor, and rectify the laws and discipline of the imperial court!”

The hundred officials echoed in agreement.

All kneeling down and pleading.

Lin Yuan spoke at this time: “Yuan is young, what virtue does Yuan have to be able to take on such a big responsibility? There are many people with lofty ideals and wisdom in the world, Yuan cannot.”

Song Shizhao began the second plea: “Although there are many warriors in the world, no one can bear the rise and fall of the world with just one’s own strength. Although the King of the South is young, he is able to unite the world. If the King of the South does not become emperor, this official shall die a ten thousand death!”

Hundred officials: “This official shall die a ten thousand death!”

Lin Yuan spoke again: “You are all the pillars of this country, and with your help, the ruler will surely win the hearts of the people, but Yuan is incompetent and unworthy of being an emperor.”

Song Shizhao pleaded a third time: “In today’s world, only the King of the South could turn the tide and save the people from flood and fire. The King of the South ascending the throne is what the people want. If my Lord does not accept the request of this official, this official can only apologize to the world with my death!”

“Since this is the case, Yuan can only accept your request.” Lin Yuan sighed, “Yuan asks you all to help me.”

The hundred officials spoke loudly: “We shall be loyal to the country and loyal to the monarch!”

The national music was played, its momentum high and mighty.

Lin Yuan: “Everyone, please rise and enter with Yuan.”

The door of the Daming Hall opened wide, welcoming its new master.

Lin Yuan walked up the steps step by step.

In the first year of Mingde, Emperor Yuan of Ming was enthroned, the official name of the nation was Ming.

Mingde, from the “Great Learning” (TN: one of the Four Books), its ancient meaning, if one wanted to make the world virtuous and bright, one should govern the nation first.

The new dragon chair symbolized its new owner. The armrests of this dragon chair were carved with dragon heads, and was made of red sandalwood aniseed, dyed black, and appeared solemn and imposing.

Lin Yuan stood with his back to the dragon chair. After the civil and military officials entered, he then sat on the dragon chair and took the imperial crown. The crown’s hanging decorations consisted of the Son of Heaven’s twelve tassels, the aura of the Son of Heaven appearing suddenly.

Lin Yuan sat on the dragon chair.

The officials shouted, “Long live my emperor! Long live!”

Lin Yuan stretched out his hand: “All ministers, rise.”

“As Zhen just ascended the throne, Zhen do not seek merits, but want no faults. Now, the people of Dadu are all still anxious. Do any of you have any good advice to assist Zhen?” Lin Yuan asked.

“This official has a memorial tablet.” Zheng Qingfeng stepped out.

All the officials looked at him.

Zheng Qingfeng was called over to Dadu by Song Shizhao, and at this moment he stepped forward with confidence.

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “Oh, Zheng qing (TN: term used by the emperor for his subjects), please speak.”

Zheng Qingfeng said: “Opening the market, accepting concubines to the harem, and offering sacrifices to the heavens, like this, Dadu will stabilize and the common people will be at ease.”

“Then according to what Zheng qing has said, open the market and offer sacrifices to the avens.” Lin Yuan, “As for the harem, at this time, the common people have just experienced war, how can we take away their children?”

Zheng Qingfeng didn’t insist either. It was indeed inappropriate to fill the harem as soon as the new emperor ascended the throne. He only just mentioned it as part of ritual.

Lin Yuan sighed and said, “After years of wars, the common people are miserable and suffering. If the people are strong, then the nation will be strong, and if the people are rich, then the nation will be rich.”

“Zhen pity the suffering of the common people, and shall exempt them from taxes for five years. What do Zhen’s officials think?”

Song Shizhao spoke first: “Your Majesty has the world in your heart and loves the common people. It is the blessing of the common people and the blessing of the world! In place of the common people, this official thanks Your Majesty!”

Song Shizhao said everything first, and the officials behind were so angry that they nearly vomited blood.

After the court assembly, Lin Yuan walked to the Yanchun Pavilion which was behind Daming Hall.

Song Shizhao and Zheng Qingfeng followed closely behind.

Lin Yuan invited the two to sit down.

“Zhen want to open a government school.” Lin Yuan said: “And allow all the children of the common people to be admitted to the school.”

“There is no need for tuition, one school to be built at each lane.”

“Starting from the capital.”

Song Shizhao pondered: “Your Majesty, this project will cost a lot, and Your Majesty has just exempted taxes for five years…..”

Lin Yuan: “Do not worry.”

Zheng Qingfeng said: “Your Majesty appears confident and must have a good plan, I beg Your Majesty to teach us.”

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “The aristocratic families from all over the empire, each family can feed an entire city.”

Song Shizhao said abruptly: “Your Majesty is wise! But the aristocratic families may not be willing to hand their wealth over with both hands. If something goes wrong, this plan will not only be useless, but harmful.”

Lin Yuan looked at Zheng Qingfeng: “Qing think so too?”

Zheng Qingfeng said: “Lord Song’s words are not incorrect, but in extraordinary times, extraordinary measures are needed.”

Lin Yuan smiled and said: “Zheng qing knows what Zhen want, so Zhen will entrust this to qing at this time. Zhen has just ascended the throne, and there are very few people of use under Zhen’s hands. The world’s aristocratic families cultivate their descendants, and Zhen will naturally reward them with positions.”

Zheng Qingfeng cupped his hands and said, “This official has received the order.”

——

The aristocratic families had been frightened and worried for a few months, but they began to rejoice again.

The word had been leaked from the imperial court. His Majesty had just begun to govern the imperial court but was lacking in assistance, and therefore planned to select capable officials from the aristocratic families.

The aristocratic families were now discussing how to send their children to the palace.

The current head of the Zheng family was the eldest son of the Zheng family, Zheng Zihui. After he learned the news, he convened the children of the family for a meeting. His sons ranged of all ages. In a family, the most important thing was people, so besides his official wife, he also took several concubines. The Zheng family had kept a low profile the whole time, just multiplying their children behind closed doors.

The more children, the better, both male and female.

So there were six children of the Zheng family who were over the age of maturity, and eleven who were under the age of maturity.

Young children did not attend, but there were 14 people in total who still attended.

“Today, His Majesty wants to open a public literary gathering and elect officials to fill the court. Our Zheng family’s opportunity is just around the corner.” Zheng Zihui smiled, “Do you all understand the responsibility on your shoulders?”

The sons spoke loudly: “We understand, and will not lose the face of the Zheng family, having studied hard for many years, it is all for this moment.”

Zheng Zihui: “Very good! When writing articles, it must have compliments, and if making a proposal, it must not offend the ruler.”

“The pride and lofty ideals can only be displayed after you’ve become officials of the court. Remember, do not believe yourself to be infallible.”

“If you can get acquainted with the sons of the other aristocratic families, you can get close, but not intimate.” Zheng Zihui said again, “The future of the Zheng family depends on you all.”

“This son shall be loyal to the Lord! Strive to be the best for our Zheng family!” Zheng Zihui’s eldest son declared.

Zheng Zihui slapped the table: “Good ambition!”

“My son will definitely ride the wind and rise up!” Zheng Zihui laughed, “Go! The Zheng family relies on you all!”

The literary gathering was held on time, in the side hall of the palace banquet room.

All the sons of the noble families in the capital came.

This was their chance, they would show their abilities in front of the monarch, and then be conferred an official post.

After all, when the new dynasty was just established, there was no time to hold the imperial examinations to find talented people. Now was their biggest opportunity.

The literary gathering was simple, Lin Yuan asked a question and everyone answered.

There was no need to write, just speak orally.

Lin Yuan’s question was not difficult.

He asked, “Why are you all come today?”

Someone below replied: “To serve the country!”

“For the benefit of the country!”

“For the well-being of the people!”

Only one person said: “To be famous all over the world!”

Everyone’s eyes landed on this person, this person had skin as white as jade, a tall and straight physique, like the posture of a bamboo, but what he said was extremely arrogant.

Immediately, someone asked: “What ability do you have? To be so arrogant? All the people who came here today are those who are familiar with poetry and books.”

This person: “Everyone is familiar with poetry and books, but so what?”

Everyone glared angrily: “The sages spoke! The way to govern the country!”

This person said again: “Oh, then you are all amazing, you can learn from books and govern the country on paper.”

“You! Which family are you from? With such a prideful tone, you’re not afraid of biting your tongue!”

This person cupped his hands and said: “The surname of this untalented one is Zhou, Zhou Rong.”

“And I wondered who it was? It turned out to be the famous and talented Zhou Eldest. Known as a genius and became famous at a young age. It’s a pity that one might be a genius when young, but one might not necessarily be a genius when older. Does the talented Zhou Eldest have a nickname?”

Zhou Rong: “The nickname is not decent.”

“Then I’ll give you a nickname, what do you think of Zhong Yong?” (TN: different characters but same sound for the characters that mean ‘mediocre’)

When the words fell, everyone laughed.

Zhou Rong was not angry, but said: “I heard that the tongue could turn into a sword, hurting people invisibly. This humble one has finally seen it in person.”

“Are you hinting that we are all narrow-minded people?”

“Zhou Rong! This here is the literary gathering of the Son of Heaven, there is no place for your impudence!”

“We came here to serve the country, you are here for your own fame and fortune, if I were you, I would be ashamed at this time.”

Zhou Rong: “Having learned civil and martial arts, using one’s capabilities to serve the imperial family, what is there to be ashamed of? You are not here to be officials?”

Everyone was stunned.

Zhou Rong also said: “That His Majesty can conquer the world, proves that His Majesty is broad-minded, and can tolerate the people of the world, and therefore can tolerate such an arrogant person as this humble one.”

Lin Yuan said to Song Shizhao who was beside him, “This person is interesting.”

Song Shizhao chuckled: “It’s grandstanding, but for the chance to attract the monarch’s gaze. I’m afraid that he won’t live up to his name.”

Lin Yuan nodded: “Mister’s words are reasonable.”

“Call him to come forward.” Lin Yuan ordered.

The eunuch led Zhou Rong over.

Lin Yuan asked him with a smile, “Zhou gongzi, do you have any advice?”

Zhou Rong bowed first, and waited for Lin Yuan to excuse him before saying, “Caomin do not dare to speak of advice, but caomin came to relieve Your Majesty’s worries.”

Lin Yuan asked again, “What worries do Zhen have?”

Zhou Rong: “Your Majesty exempted the common people from paying taxes for five years, in order to stabilize the world and allow the common people to recuperate. Caomin is grateful for Your Majesty’s compassion for the people, so caomin would like to share Your Majesty’s worries.”

“The aristocratic families have become entrenched in all areas and have deep roots. When Your Majesty called the sons of the aristocratic families, it is with the lure of illusory titles.”

“The aristocratic families of the capital can be dealt with by this method, but how about the aristocratic families of farther regions?”

Lin Yuan became serious: “Zhou gongzi, please speak.”

Zhou Rong: “Caomin is willing to run errands for Your Majesty, and the Zhou family will gather all our strength to share the worries for Your Majesty!”

Lin Yuan: “What request does gongzi have?”

Zhou Rong’s eyes flickered with a clever light: “Does Your Majesty think caomin has the ability to take the seat of Minister of Ceremonies (TN: in imperial China, one of the Nine Ministers)?”

Song Shizhao: “Presumptuous!”

Lin Yuan waved his hand: “Mister, don’t be angry.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

“Zhou gongzi possess the ambition to be a great man, and Zhen must respond to it. If gongzi is successful, why not grant you the Glorious Grand Master (TN: honorific title during Tang and Qing times), let alone just the Minister of Ceremonies?”

“If you are not successful, then gongzi will have committed the crime of deceiving the emperor, and it will be difficult to guarantee the head on your shoulders.”

Zhou Rong immediately knelt down: “If caomin doesn’t succeed, caomin shall end one’s life personally!”

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev

“Zhao Eldest! You will die a sticky death!” The shoeless and messy haired Zheng family patriarch pointed at Zhao Rong’s nose, “Today you play the jackal to the tiger! In the future, will your Zhao family be able to retreat safely?”

Zhao Rong looked at Patriarch Zheng: “Since Patriarch Zheng knows that His Majesty is a fierce tiger going down the mountain, why did you refuse to see reason back then? Patriarch Zheng, have a look around, your wife and sons have bowed their heads, they are willing to be loyal to His Majesty, so why bother to block your family’s path to survival? Even if not for the Zheng family’s century-old reputation, it is also necessary to consider more for the future generations.”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Patriarch Zheng looked up to the sky and laughed: “Zhao Eldest, you are laughable!”

“A man’s arm is cut off, and yet you want this man to serve it over with both hands. My Zheng family is willing to provide food and people, so what else is he dissatisfied with?!”

Zhao Rong: “It’s just a few servants.”

Patriarch Zheng scolded: “Just a few servants?”

“Your Zhao family is also a century-old clan! You actually don’t know whether this is just a few servants?”

“What is a servant? Old generational servants, my family’s shops, and your family’s shops, aren’t they all watched by servants?”

“Your family’s ancestral lands, my family’s ancestral lands, aren’t they all being looked after by the servants?”

Zhao Rong cupped his hands and said: “Patriarch Zheng, I respect you as an elder, and I have made my statements. His Majesty is benevolent and kind, but the sharpness of the slaughtering knife is rare in this world. If you remain stubborn, then it will not be Zhao who will come to persuade you with good words, but the sword and the axe, Patriarch Zheng, take care.”

Zhao Rong flicked his sleeves and turned around, leading the people away.

Every step of the way, he kicked up wind, and his momentum and aura was no longer that of the old Zhao family son.

“Father!”

After Zhao Rong left, Patriarch Zheng’s eldest son hurried to his father’s side. He wanted to support Patriarch Zheng, but Patriarch Zheng waved him away.

“You! You!” Patriarch Zheng pointed at his sons and wife, and at everyone, “Are you going to watch our Zheng family decline? Will the inheritance left by our ancestors be ruined today?”

The eldest son knelt on the ground with tears in his eyes: “Father, the emperor is a tyrant, a fierce tiger. Only by letting go of the past glory will our Zheng family have a chance to breathe, and in the future will we be able to send our children to the court.”

“Father.” The eldest son took a few steps on his knees and hugged Patriarch Zheng’s legs, “Our Zheng family has not gained an inch in a hundred years.”

Patriarch Zheng felt unsteady on his feet, and he sat on the chair: “You…..are willing to give up your ancestral inheritance in order to stand out in front of the new king?”

The eldest son raised his head: “Father.”

Patriarch Zheng looked at his sons and his grandchildren.

In addition to fear, their faces were filled with uncontrollable excitement and yearning.

They have acquired civil and military skills, but they couldn’t use it to serve the imperial family. At this time, the new king appeared, and even if the king was extremely vicious, they couldn’t wait to make use of their skills and abilities that they had learned.

They didn’t care whether the new king was strong or weak, traitorous or evil, so long as they could accomplish their ambitions, nothing else mattered.

Patriarch Zheng was defeated. He covered his eyes and said with trembling lips, “I can’t stop you, I have grown old, Zihui.”

The eldest son hurriedly said, “This son is here.”

Patriarch Zheng didn’t want to open his eyes to see his children and grandchildren again: “In the future, this family is now yours.”

The eldest son froze in place, and repeatedly said he dared not: “This son, the son is not as capable as father…..”

Patriarch Zheng: “Don’t say anymore! From now on, I won’t care about this family anymore!”

“In the future, success or failure, whether our Zheng family is the passing water of the east or the pagoda on the main mountain, it will depend on you all.”

The children of the Zheng family bowed their heads and knocked it to the ground.

The next day, the Zheng family dispersed the old servants, hired new servants, and returned the servants to the common people.

The aristocratic families, every one of them was in danger.

But there were those who followed the example of the Zheng family and cut off their arms for survival.

“Most of them are smart people.” Song Shizhao smiled at the booklet sent over by Zhao Rong.

The old servant was puzzled: “It’s just a matter of servants. Why do they all look like their parents and mothers have died?”

Song Shizhao smiled and shook his head: “You, you never use your brain.”

The old servant poured him a glass of wine: “More and more, I do not understand what my lord is saying now.”

At this time, Lin Yuan was instructing Luo Ben: “I am sending you this time in order to supervise the registration of households. What generational servants and family servants, they are all my citizens.”

Luo Ben promised: “What Your Majesty says is very true, under the Lord, there should be no one who coerces the people into slavery.”

Lin Yuan had a smile on his face: “I fully entrust this to Mister.”

Luo Ben cupped his hands and bowed at the waist: “This official will do my best.”

“Go.” Lin Yuan watched Luo Ben leave.

Luo Ben listened to the cries outside the governmental office.

The servants cried and sobbed, not wanting to be commoners.

“My father and my mother, my grandparents are all servants.” The man cried bitterly, “I don’t want to be a commoner!”

The common people have to pay taxes, but being slaves, the master was the one who paid for their food and shelter. They didn’t have to worry about their livelihood and the future. When they have children the master’s family would support them. All they had to do was to obediently do work.

But when they become common people, they have to make all the decisions on what to do.

And also pay taxes.

Why be part of the common people?

If there was no benefit, why do it?

“That’s right! Me too, my family are all servants!” Someone shouted, “Please, sir!”

Hearing this, Luo Ben raised his head and commanded sarcastically, “If that’s the case, then drag them out, impose castration, and send them to the palace as slaves.”

When the people outside heard this, they quickly shouted: “My lord! My mother only has this one son! My lord!”

Luo Ben looked at the people outside the door who kept kowtowing and crying, and said: “Being a slave or a servant is orriginally a last resort. The parents in the world all want their children to grow up healthily and earn food for their bellies with their own hands and feet. You, as the children of someone else, don’t think about improving yourselves, and instead are willing to be slaves, it is truly ridiculous and lamentable.”

“Today, I will point out a clear path for you all. The people of the world are all the citizens of His Majesty, and the slaves of the world are only the slaves of His Majesty. If you want to be a slave, you can enter the palace, and there is even ways to promotion. Perhaps you may even be able to honor your ancestors and become a famous eunuch?”

The people below didn’t dare to cry anymore.

They tucked in their heads for fear of being caught out and sent to the palace.

It was not that they couldn’t find a means to live anymore, so why go to the suffering of cutting off the roots of one’s descendants?

As a man, if he lost that object, then he was no different from a cripple.

“Is there anyone who still wants to be a slave?” Luo Ben asked loudly.

No one spoke outside the door.

Within half a month, Dadu no had slaves.

The servants received the money owed by the master’s family and found other means of making a livelihood, and it was not as difficult as they thought.

There is your own house that sheltered you from the wind and rain. As long as you are willing to work, you can get paid. The days passed slowly, and they no longer felt that there was anything wrong with being a commoner.

The child played in the alley, holding a grass cricket in his hand, and ran into his yard on short legs, watching his father chop wood.

“Father, why do you have to chop so much wood?” The little boy squatted on the side.

The man smiled and said, “To boil more water today, we’re all going to take a hot bath. Yesterday, I asked your second uncle to make a bathtub, and it will be finished today.”

The child jumped up excitedly: “Will I take a bath too?”

The man put down his axe and rubbed his son’s head: “Of course.”

The child giggled and said, “It’s a good thing to move out. Once we move out, we can take a hot bath.”

When they used to be servants, where was there a hot bath to take, if they could get a pot of hot water and wipe themselves, the. it would already be considered good luck.

The man smiled. He was different from others. When people asked them to leave the master’s house, he didn’t cry like others. He voluntarily took his wife and children out himself.

He didn’t want his son to be like him, to be a slave all his life, to be a slave from generation to generation, and for his descendants to be slaves, never able to make something of themselves.

He had to work hard, send his son to study, so that his son did not have to be like him, and his son’s son did not have to be like him.

“Go to your mother and see what delicious food she made for you today.” The man patted his son’s butt.

The child jumped up and ran to the house to find his mother.

“Mother!” The child put his hands by the stove, “What are we going to eat today?”

Woman: “We’re going to eat sweet potato rice today, what do you think?”

The child nodded again and again: “Okay! Eat sweet potato rice!”

The woman said, “With some side dishes as well?”

The child smiled sweetly: “Okay! Mother’s cooking is the most delicious.”

The woman leaned over and tugged at her son’s face: “Who’s mouth is covered with honey?”

The child laughed and threw himself into the woman’s embrace.

At the dinner table, the whole family ate sweet potato rice and wild vegetables, which was quite delicious. The woman said to her husband, “I heard that women can also work. If I can work, we can save the money earlier and send Da Niu to study.”

Da Niu was their son. He was born prematurely and they had been afraid of not being able to raise him up, so they gave him the nickname Da Niu (Big Ox).

The husband said, “Don’t go, I’m going to join the army. The monthly salary in the army is much higher than that of you and me working odd jobs, we can save up the money earlier.”

The woman’s chopsticks paused: “Join the army?”

The husband patted the head of the child who was eating diligently next to them and said, “Don’t be afraid, the military camp allows us to go home to visit relatives every month. Even if there is a war, only Haozhou and Anfeng are left. I won’t necessarily fight, but even if I go, we will not lose, your husband is strong and has things my heart will miss, I will definitely come back alive.”

The woman was frightened: “In war, the weapons have no eyes. If you can’t come back, Da Niu and I will become orphan and widow. Anyone can bully us. I’m just a woman. What can I do then?”

The husband held his wife’s hand: “I heard people say that the treatment in the military is very good. After being discharged from the army, we will get money, and the court will arrange work for us. If injured or disabled, we can get another sum of money. If we die on the battlefield, we will be known as martyrs, and you and Da Niu are the family of a martyr.”

“Families of martyrs can get a sum of money every month.”

“And will also be taken care of by the imperial court.”

The woman burst into tears: “Do you have to go?”

The husband nodded: “I have made up my mind.”

The woman stretched out her hand and wiped away her tears: “I’ll pack your things for you. I’ll take good care of Da Niu at home and serve my in-laws. You should also cherish yourself outside. Don’t let me become a widow and let Da Niu lose his father.”

Husband: “I am lucky to have a wife like you in this life.”

The woman forced out an ugly smile, having no appetite anymore, she hid in the bedroom.

Only the son raised his head: “Dad, are you going to join the army?”

The husband smiled at the child: “Does Da Niu like that?”

The child didn’t know the cruelty of war, but only knew the prestige of being a soldier: “Father, will you be a general in the future?”

Husband: “Dad will work hard.”

The child said happily, “Then I am the general’s son!”

——

Lin Yuan looked at the booklet written by Luo Ben, and after reading it, he walked up to Luo Ben: “Is qing willing to be the Senior Official?” (TN: qing = term used by the emperor for his subjects)

Luo Ben raised his head, and then knelt down three times and knocked his head on the ground nine times ceremoniously.

“I am willing to be loyal to Your Majesty, and I will not change in this life.”

This Senior Official was a new position Lin Yuan created.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

During the Song Dynasty, the senior official was of the third rank, headed by the Xuan Feng Senior Official and Zheng Feng Senior Official.

And Luo Ben’s Senior Official was the Imperial Censor Senior Official, of the second rank, who had the responsibility of inquiring and advising the government.

Lin Yuan helped Luo Ben up, and said with a smile, “If qing will not disappoint me, then I will not disappoint qing.”

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev

These days, Lin Yuan had been visiting most of the aristocratic families in the Yuan Dynasty. The fact that these families could leave their names on the history scroll, even if it was just the Haozhou family, the Li family, was enough to prove how powerful and influential they were.

Aristocratic families did not necessarily consist of high-ranking officials, but they must possess enough reputation in the local area. The local common people rely on them to live, and even officials sent by the imperial court had to curry favor with them.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

After all, officials serve there for only a certain amount of years, but the aristocratic family in the area had remained unchanged for decades and centuries. As the saying went, it was difficult for a strong dragon to suppress the local snakes. The local snakes were intertwined in the local area, making it impossible for people to assert any outside influence.

Dadu also had such aristocratic families, but because it was Dadu, the place where the imperial power was most concentrated, most of the aristocratic families had shrunken, having long lost their position and ability from back then.

But that didn’t mean they had become lambs to the slaughter.

The fact they were able to survive in the hands of the emperors of the Yuan Dynasty, and having survived for so many generations, their tentacles have extended to the interior of the court of the Yuan Dynasty, and many officials were “funded” by them.

After all, the salary of an official was only so much, and there were so many officials and dignitaries in the imperial city. Even if they embezzled money, ordinary officials couldn’t embezzle as much money as one would think.

Putting them outside the imperial city, the fifth-rank officials were already considered high-ranking officials, but in Dadu, if a sign plaque was dropped on the road, it may smash to death several fifth-rank officials or royal relatives.

On the surface, officials were supported by them, but in fact they were actually the ones acting as checks and balances on officials.

They possess their own wisdom, spending money and using people were all to get more benefits.

Of course, these noble families were afraid of Lin Yuan, but their fear of Lin Yuan was not very deep.

To be precise, there were still some of them who thought that with the world having changed masters, their chance had finally come.

So they wanted to talk conditions with Lin Yuan.

They still have quite a few chips in their hands.

First, they have money and food.

Second, they have people, although they dare not be obvious and brazen, but they did have many servants, and even most people of the same surname were attached to them.

Third, they saw that what Lin Yuan was most anxious to do now was to stabilize Dadu.

This was their chance.

It was the opportunity for them to re-enter the court and regain speaking power.

Of course, if Lin Yuan wasn’t the South Bodhisattva and didn’t have such a good reputation, they wouldn’t dare to talk to Lin Yuan about conditions, and they might have fled long ago.

It was precisely because of Lin Yuan’s reputation that they thought that Lin Yuan was a person who valued ​​a good reputation. The more one valued reputation the easier it was to figure out their intentions.

“There are indeed a few smart people.” Lin Yuan looked at the letters of submission.

Song Shizhao also sighed: “It’s just that they did not use their smarts on the right path.”

Lin Yuan shook his head: “You can’t blame them either.”

In an aristocratic family, if there were no officials in it, it wouldn’t be long before they fell into decline, so even though they knew that they might anger Lin Yuan, they still had to risk their whole family’s lives on this gamble.

If a family wants to be strong and prosperous, it must be able to produce a person who could stand by the side of the emperor in every generation.

In the Yuan Dynasty, they couldn’t do it, they could only hole up in their turtle shells, so when Lin Yuan came out, they also came out.

They want to come out of their predicament to the point of going crazy.

Now was the best chance. Lin Yuan had just entered Dadu, and he was not familiar with Dadu. There must not be many people who he could use. After all, it was impossible to bring all his confidants with him. These people were temporarily immobilized as they must guard the other cities for him, so their opportunity had arrived.

You could send their children to Lin Yuan’s side.

Therefore, almost all the letters of submissions Lin Yuan received were all letters pledging loyalty by the aristocratic families, but how they expressed it was very artistic and euphemistic.

In essence——

“The world has been in chaos for so long, and finally a hero like you has appeared. Although we are foolish, we also know that capable people live in this world. Since you are now here, it must be the choice of the heavens, so we are willing to be at your beck and call, and help you pacify Dadu, but we are the common people after all, and we are not qualified to help you, so we have chosen the best descendants in the family, and we will send them to you as long as you are willing.”

Song Shizhao took the letter of submission from Lin Yuan. After reading it carefully, he smiled and said, “The person who wrote this article is a capable person.”

Articles like this were easy to appear weak and easy to bully or arrogant and domineering if the right degree was not grasped. There were very few that could be written just right like this letter was.

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “There will be places that they could be used in the future.”

These children of aristocratic families have learned how to be an official since they were young, and they studied for the purpose of being an official.

It was impossible for Lin Yuan to not use them, because after several years of ups and downs, it was these people who were most needed.

But he was not going to let these noble families unreined, and would not allow them to have any power that did not belong to them.

Today, they gave up their net worth to rely on Lin Yuan, then in the future they would get more benefits from Lin Yuan. Today’s sacrifice was for tomorrow’s gain.

Song Shizhao understood what Lin Yuan meant. Although he could be regarded as having come from a noble family, his family was too small after all. It was so small that they could only find a place to hide when the dynasties changed. He didn’t much identify himself with the aristocratic families. In some respects, like Lin Yuan, he felt that the aristocratic families got in the way and hindered imperial power.

If it wasn’t for Lin Yuan’s desire to use the descendants cultivated by the aristocratic family, Song Shizhao was even ready to propose that he should take this opportunity to wipe out the aristocratic families, lest they collude and cause trouble later.

“Ignore them alone for now.” Lin Yuan said, “Re-improve the employment system first.”

He wanted to make the servants of the aristocratic families become common people again, and have the common people create value, and these values did not belong to the aristocratic families, but to him.

Song Shizhao agreed, and he suddenly said: “This official has been busy these days, and I am afraid that my energy will be insufficient, so I can leave it to one person at this time.”

This was to recommend talents to Lin Yuan, Lin Yuan asked with a smile, “Who?”

Song Shizhao said: “This son is the son of the Zhao family. He is proficient in mathematics and his character is upright.”

Saying that this person was good at mathematics, but he was a bit rigid and didn’t know how to adapt.

Lin Yuan nodded and said, “Then call this person over.”

Not knowing to be flexible was a good thing in this case.

At this time, what he needed was someone who was not flexible.

In this way, even if the aristocratic families develop hatred, they would not hate him.

Although he was not afraid that the families would hate him, it was better to have less trouble, was it not?

So Zhao Jiazi took office. He was the only person of the Dadu aristocratic families who became an official after the imperial court changed hands. His parents couldn’t believe it when they received the decree from the eunuch. It was simply…..it was simply because they know their own son too well. Their son was fine with academics, but he only knew what was written in the books, whatever was written in the books he would take it to heart completely. When he was a child, his family thought he was too stubborn, and they tricked him into climbing to the roof to read every day, saying that he would get twice the result with half the effort.

One could not sit on the roof for too long, the butt would hurt after sitting there for a long time.

Not saying that he should sneak down the roof to study against his parents’ orders, he should at least find himself a plank or a cushion.

But the result was, he actually sat on the roof honestly and obediently. If it rained, he would use an umbrella because he was afraid that the books would get wet, and only covered the books from the rain.

The family members were really convinced by him, and they no longer paid attention to him, cultivating the second and third sons with all their heart instead.

After all, there was no shortage of sons, and one could always find a smart one among them.

The son of the Zhao family’s name was Zhao Rong, and he looked very tall and upright. After all, he was from an aristocratic background, and was not lacking in daring. After he received the verbal decree, he immediately reported to his post and took over the official affairs regarding the servants.

The first to fall under his knife was his own family.

It angered his father into cursing loudly at home: “These are aristocratic servants who have been serving our family for generations. Now letting them go, do you think your mother can cook, or your father can sweep the house?”

Zhao Rong was neither angry nor timid when his father scolded him. Instead, he said, “It’s hiring, it’s not that they’re not allowed to stay in our house.”

“It’s just that they now have a fixed salary and are not allowed to be beaten or killed at will, it’s the same as before.”

His father scolded again: “Where is there no difference!”

He hated himself for teaching his son to be a gentleman!

Why were slaves so loyal to them? If something went wrong at home, the slaves would save their master first even if they have to put their lives on the line.

Why? Was it because they were born servile?

No, it was because the lives of their family depended on the master, their wives and children, their relatives and friends, everything was entrusted to the master.

Once they find out, even if there was no master, they could live well by themselves, or if the master was not good to them, they could just change to a new master. Then towards the aristocratic families, it was the same as turning the world upside down.

Of course, noble families didn’t place much regard on slaves, but they have many places where they could use slaves. Outsiders could never make them feel at ease as their own people, but what if their own people also became outsiders?

“They will hate you and our family!” His father thumped his chest and stomped his feet in pain, “That Southern King is forcing our family to die!”

Zhao Rong said, “Father, as an official, loyalty is the first thing. Although this son is not talented, I know that we will have a bright future when being loyal to the Lord. If I retire today, there will always be someone else who wants to take over my job. If this son succeeds, our Zhao family will have a place in the new dynasty, and if I lose, father should not panic either, this son will use my life to compensate them, and should not implicate the whole family.”

“Father has sons, and this son also has sons. The Zhao family has no shortage of sons. Father, let this son go.” Zhao Rong knelt down in front of Father Zhao.

His two younger brothers also said, “Father, let eldest brother go.”

Father Zhao looked at his eldest son and finally said, “You…..go then.”

Zhao Rong went, and he turned the aristocratic families of Dadu upside down with just strength of himself.

Every moment there was someone cursing him to death.

At first, these people gave gifts to the Zhao family, tried to pull connections with the Zhao family, and even offered to give up their daughters to be Zhao Rong’s concubines, but the Zhao family did not agree.

They have already chosen their side and could not change it anymore.

So Zhao Rong didn’t dare to drink the alcohol outside, didn’t dare to eat the food outside. If his past friends invited him for gatherings, he mostly shied away.

After Lin Yuan found out, he said to Song Shizhao, “This person is indeed usable.”

Able to faithfully complete the tasks assigned, without holding anything back, even if he was not flexible and didn’t know how to adapt, he could still be called a loyal and virtuous official.

He must walk a new path, and what he needed were people who followed him wholeheartedly, there could not be two voices in his team.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

“Have someone protect him.” Lin Yuan added, “Even if I set a target, this target can not be touched by just anyone.”

Song Shizhao lowered his head.

Today the aristocratic families would hate Zhao Rong.

But in the future, they would find that it was because of Zhao Rong that they escaped complete ruin.

The South Bodhisattva’s methods have changed, he no longer relied on killing to intimidate and establish his power, he had learned new methods.

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev

Entering the imperial city, the first trouble Lin Yuan had to deal with was the arrested civil and military officials——they all followed Emperor Shun of Yuan and wanted to escape, and for convenience, most of them only brought their sons with them, while their wives and daughters were left behind. And whether or not they could survive or not, it didn’t matter to them at all.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

These people were now locked in the side hall.

There were both Han Chinese and Mongolians. The Mongolians were alright, most of them grit their teeth and refused to open their mouths.

While most of the Han officials were begging the soldiers.

“Soldier ye, I am a Han Chinese, we are of the same ancestors.” The official’s attitude was very servile, he had always looked down on these soldiers in the past, but now he had to beg these soldiers. He spoke ingratiatingly, “I am an official in this Yuan court, but that is because I have no other choice. Think about it, we Han people still have to twist into one rope, I am suffering patiently, but firmly resolved on revenge, please talk to the superior for me…..”

The soldier almost didn’t laugh out loud, he had seen shamelessness, but such shamelessness was still rare.

But of course he wouldn’t let this Han Chinese out.

When this person returned, he would inevitably be beaten up. As for whether he would be dead or alive after the beating, it was uncertain.

Lin Yuan didn’t have the mind to deal with this now, and left it all to Luo Ben. He only looked at the results, and the process was left to Lup Ben to carry out at will.

They could be executed, but they must be executed in a good way.

He himself was discussing with Song Shizhao about the common people.

The common people of Dadu were different from the common people in other places. The common people in the imperial city were all considerably well-off. Except for the poor on the edge of the city, those who could settle in the inner city were all wealthy folks with library collections and servants. Most of them were literate with ancestors who may not have been officials, but they definitely have had education.

Some of these people fled outwards——but most were stopped.

Dadu was a very inclusive place. Kublai Khan made a good start. He opened up business routes, and he was gentle with the common people. He lowered the land tax, and even many places did not have land tax. His eyes were not on the taxes of the common people, but on the merchants.

The Yuan Dynasty was once a dynasty that bloomed and flourished. It had its progressive and brilliant features. Otherwise, with a short history of less than a hundred years, why should it be included among the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties? There was also the Jin Dynasty in the front as well.

So Dadu not only consists of Han people, Mongolians, but also blond, blue-eyed, or red-haired barbarians.

This was already the period of Emperor Shun of Yuan, and it was not the most prosperous period of development of the Yuan Dynasty for a long time, but Dadu could still attract so many people to come here.

Food from all places, people from different regions, and different architectural styles.

Lin Yuan couldn’t help but sigh with emotion when he entered the city.

If Genghis Khan and Kublai Khan knew about what their descendants had done, they would probably be so angry that they would come back to life and kill all their unworthy descendants.

Ancestors made a good start, but their successors didn’t manage to keep it. It was indeed really regretful.

After all, Lin Yuan was a modern man. He was educated in modern China. In his eyes, ethnic minorities were also compatriots.

He did not look at the Yuan Dynasty with hatred of the Mongols like others, but looked at it with a more rational eye.

The Yuan Dynasty naturally had their good qualities. Kind to the common people and benefited the common people, opened up trade routes, allowing the common people to migrate without travel papers. There was also the use of paper currency, a reform that was ahead of the times.

But the Yuan Dynasty also had bad points. To be precise, it was not bad, but going bad too early.

This was the case at the end of every dynasty. Corrupt officials making life difficult for the people. The people could only stand up and find a way to survive, but the Yuan Dynasty collapsed faster than a solution could be found.

There were too many changes in emperors, and each emperor had different ideas and issued different decrees.

Perhaps they died before they learned how to be a good emperor.

Lin Yuan said to Song Shizhao, “I can’t let them go. It doesn’t matter if the poor people on the edge of the city leave, but if the people in the inner city leave, the capital may take five years or more to regain its liveliness.”

As soon as Song Shizhao heard the term capital, he repeated it twice, and suddenly said: “The capital! This is a good name! The kingly aura is expressed completely!”

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “You only heard this part?”

Song Shizhao then replied: “The people all chase profit, they want to leave now because they are afraid that after the capital got a new owner they would be killed, or they would be robbed of their wealth, and their wives and sisters would be insulted.”

“As long as they discover your generosity and kindness, they will naturally stay.”

“How about killing a group of corrupt officials who used to oppress them, so that they could feel at ease.”

The reasoning was simple, it was to tell the people: “You listened to the words of the emperor of the Yuan Dynasty due to being forced by these officials, so I won’t trouble you, I will only blame these officials. If these officials die, then you will be fine.”

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “Mister kills officials without mercy.”

This also made Lin Yuan feel a little shocked.

After all, officials were the ruling class, and Song Shizhao was also part of the ruling class. Although the masters of their allegiance were different, the essence was the same.

So officials didn’t like to kill other officials, and they didn’t want to see someone suing officials——no one knew whether it would be them who would die next. If a colleague falls, would he also fall one day? The more you think about it, the more you would feel sympathy for the like-minded person in distress.

Officials protect each other, and sometimes it was not necessarily just because of getting benefits in exchange, but more about self-interest.

So the appearance of one Bao Qingtian (TN: Northern Song official renowned for his honesty) was enough for the common people to sing about for so many years.

Even though many of Bao Qingtian’s deeds were added later, the wishes and expectations of the common people could be clearly seen.

They were afraid of officials and hoped that the people above them could control these officials and not let officials bully them too much.

But they didn’t dare to resist themselves, so they could only hope for a Bao Qingtian, or an emperor who mingled with the common people incognito.

Song Shizhao quickly cupped his hands and said, “This official does not want to be like them.”

This was Song Shizhao’s first time referring to himself in such a way. Lin Yuan was not angry. The two looked at each other with smiles of clear understanding in their eyes.

“Since that’s the case, I leave this matter to Mister.”

Song Shizhao got up quickly, then knelt on his knees and performed the ritual bow.

Lin Yuan didn’t stop him.

——

“Mother, eat.” The little child, who barely reached an adult’s waist, held a piece of bread in his hand and moved it to the woman’s mouth.

The woman smiled at her son: “Mother is not hungry, you eat.”

The little child didn’t believe it, he insisted on watching the woman eat before putting down his hand.

The man on the side spoke, “Just eat it, or he will make a fuss for a long time.”

The woman just took a small bite of the bread: “Mother ate it.”

The little child was happy, and went to his father with the bread.

After the child fell asleep, the woman asked her husband, “When can we leave here? Those soldiers…..didn’t kill anyone, maybe they’ll let us go?”

Their family originally lived in the inner city. After the couple got married, they moved out of their parents’ home and had a small home of their own. Because the man was the youngest son, he was favored and had no obligation to support his parents. Such obligations were the eldest son’s duty.

The wife wove and spun at home, and the husband had a stall outside. The cloth woven by the wife was just enough to cover the tax on the husband’s business. The family could not be said to be very well-off, but it was not bad either. They build up savings very early to send their son to study with a teacher. If he could study well under the guidance of a good teacher, maybe he could become an official. If he couldn’t become an official, he could still do more profitable jobs.

Whether it was an accountant or a restaurant shopkeeper, they all made more money than ordinary labor workers.

But what they didn’t expect was that the world changed before the child even fully grew up. When the child was born, there were sounds of rebellion outside. Although Dadu was still full of song and dance, the common people were already panicking.

What if war reached Dadu one day?

After a few years, there were still wars outside, but Dadu had never been attacked, and the common people were relieved.

They thought that the rebels would not be able to reach them, and they could continue to live happily in Dadu.

Although taxes were getting higher and higher, and the lords were asking for more and more offerings, they could still live on. There was always food in the grain stores, and while the price was higher, they wouldn’t die of starvation.

Later…..

Later, the price of food became higher and higher, and they heard that some people in the outer city had starved to death.

In winter, some families could not afford coal, the fire went out in the middle of the night, and the whole family froze to death.

Although it was a bit exaggerated to say that they froze to death, it was also true. At this time, coming down with a cold, and without enough clothes to keep out the cold, and in addition to not being able to afford medicine, there was almost no possibility of survival. It was the same as freezing to death.

People finally found out that Dadu was not as safe as they thought.

The merchants drove up the price of grain, and because it was profitable, the imperial court did not care about it. The lords above still demanded offerings, and the more they demanded, the more the common people could not survive.

This was Dadu! 

Even in Dadu, there were people selling their daughters!

Just for a mouthful of life saving ration, even one’s wife could be given away.

And then…..the soldiers of the Southern King arrived. They heard the sound of hooves and footsteps as loud as thunder, and saw countless soldiers marching down the streets. They looked so mighty, so strong, and so frightening.

They were afraid, afraid that these soldiers would burn their houses, snatch their wives and daughters, torture them and insult them.

So they fled, fled to a farther place where they could live without fear.

But when they tried to escape, they found that they couldn’t get out. The whole city was surrounded, and they were only allowed to go in, and not come out. But those soldiers just drove them back, they didn’t kill them, so many people settled on the edge of the city. They even built thatched huts and lived there.

But there were always various inconveniences, the water source was a problem, they were too far from the river.

So someone went to the soldier to beg for water——this man was too thirsty, and when he saw the soldier drinking water, he begged the soldier in a momentary loss of self-control, the people around him couldn’t even pull him back.

Surprisingly, he actually managed to get some water! A water flask! It was full of water and after drinking it, he shared it with relatives and friends, and then returned the water flask to the soldier. Later, he actually even became friends with the soldier.

A few days later, the man who asked for water appeared among the soldiers, he had also joined the army.

This mightily surprised the common people.

The wife said to her husband: “Or…..how about we go back, living in this thatched hut every day, it’s wet and damp, how can it compare to our own home? Didn’t father-in-law and mother-in-law also not leave the city? That South Bodhisattva, maybe he really is a good person? Those soldiers, they probably won’t come to kill and set fire, right?”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

The husband hesitated for a long time, so long his son fell asleep on his wife’s lap before he said softly, “Let’s go back in the middle of the night.”

They had run out with the neighbors. If they ran back with the neighbors looking, wouldn’t they be traitors?

It was better to avoid the eyes of outsiders.

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev

The palace was beautiful, but it was not as beautiful as the Forbidden City that Lin Yuan once saw in Beijing. The imperial palace of the Yuan Dynasty was of course also lofty but the Forbidden Palace had a longer history and experienced more renovations. And in addition to the advanced technology of the modern times, it was of course more beautiful. Lin Yuan stopped on horseback at the Chongtian Gate, feeling like his past was a world away.

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

He didn’t expect that he would actually take over Dadu one day and walk into this palace.

The Chongtian Gate was equivalent to the Meridian Gate in the Qing Dynasty. The architectural style of the imperial palace was the legacy of the Song and Jin Dynasties. There were three imperial city watchtowers on both sides of the road, and the roof was double eave with a sweeping curvature.

Song Shizhao said behind Lin Yuan: “Boss, let’s go in.”

Lin Yuan spurred the horse forward, Song Shizhao and the others dismounted and followed.

Except for the emperor and his favored courtiers, no one could ride a horse on this road.

Song Shizhao felt the land with his feet. His expression was very pious, but it was not because of the original owner of this land, but because of the meaning of this land, the imperial throne, the supreme imperial power, and the position that has all people of the world bow their heads. His ancestors failed to enter the Song Dynasty imperial palace, but his feet were now standing on the land of the Yuan Dynasty imperial palace.

Starting today, he must be even more cautious, loyal to the Heavenly Son. He wanted his name to remain in the history books for the admiration of future generations!

He accomplished what his ancestors did not accomplish!

Zhu Yuanzhang, Chen Baisong and the others have already been waiting in front of the Da Ming Hall.

Seeing Lin Yuan riding over on a horse, they all knelt down.

The soldiers who were still in the palace also knelt down, and Song Shizhao and the others at the back especially so.

Lin Yuan was the only one riding on a horse, looking around all this, Da Ming Hall was right in front of his eyes, the imperial throne and jade seal were within reach, and Lin Yuan dismounted and got off the horse. His heart suddenly surged with pride, this world was now his world, he could change it according to his will, his enemies were either dead or curled up in a snail’s corner, and as for his officials, took his will as their will and his ideals as their ideals.

Whatever he said was correct, no one will say that he was wrong.

Of course, this had a chance to blind his eyes and make him become arbitrary.

But there was a bigger advantage that all problems were incomparable to, that was, the decrees and policies he issued would be implemented without any barriers.

Only when a country was united and twisted into one rope could the country be strong and prosperous.

Throughout the ages, all sage rulers have had a unified identity——arbitrariness, even if they would be courteous to virtuous talents, but that was just a way for them to cover up their ruthless methods.

Lin Yuan walked up the steps and then straight inside the Da Ming Hall.

The other people were still kneeling in place, and so long as Lin Yuan did not tell them to rise they would not do so.

The Da Ming Hall was the largest building in the imperial palace, and it was the most luxurious and bright. The hall could accommodate hundreds of courtiers. The columns were carved with dragon motifs. Standing at the door, one could see the layout of the hall at a glance, but the most attractive thing was the throne above the stepped platform.

Speaking of which, the throne was nothing more than a seat. Perhaps it was not even as comfortable as the soft chair that Lin Yuan preferred the most.

But this was not just a chair, it was a symbol of power, something that only the most powerful person in the world could sit in.

A chair that people with lofty ideals all over the world coveted.

Right now it was in front of Lin Yuan.

But Lin Yuan did not go up the steps. He just took a look and walked out of the front doors of Da Ming Hall.

If he was to ascend the throne, he must have everything new, a new throne, a new jade seal, and a new ritual system.

Since there was a need for reform, then it should start at this time.

Someone had already cleaned up the personal residence. This was the first place to be cleaned up, which was located right behind Da Ming Hall.

The two palaces were connected to each other with one in the front and one in the back. Lin Yuan first walked out of the hall and told everyone to rise. Then he called Song Shizhao, Yang Shaowei and Luo Ben to follow him into the personal residence palace. The generals had their own duties, they had to deal with the corpses and prisoners of war.

Look at the sky, there was still much to be busy over.

As for Emperor Yuan Shun, no one could think of him at all at this time.

Looking at the corpse, the soldiers had a headache, especially since the man was still wearing an imperial robe.

No one thought that the emperor would die with an eunuch in such a small hut. The soldier opened his mouth and took a look. Black liquid flowed out.

He had died of poisoning.

Don’t know if he ate it himself or was fed by someone else.

“There are no orders from above?” The soldier asked his squad leader.

The squad leader also had a headache, and said to him: “You wait, I’ll report it.”

The squad leader searched for a while before he found the battalion leader. The battalion leader didn’t know what to do, and went to the platoon leader. The platoon leader…..the platoon leader directly found Li Congrong.

However, Li Congrong had no experience at all in such matters, so he turned around and asked Zhu Yuanzhang.

After all, that was the last emperor of the Yuan Dynasty in any case, so the corpse should be cleaned up and buried?

Zhu Yuanzhang was taken aback by Li Congrong’s question, and he smiled and said: “Drag it out and bury it, the prodigal dog, do you really think he should be put in the mausoleum? Starting today, there is only one emperor in the world.”

Li Congrong turned his head and thought, it seemed that this was very reasonable.

So Emperor Yuan Shun’s body was thrown into the pile of corpses, but the soldiers responsible was cautious and stripped off his clothes.

Of course these clothes were also burned.

The eunuchs and maids and internal officials in the palace were kept in the side hall, guarded by soldiers.

They didn’t know whether they would die or live, so they dared not cry too loudly, only cry quietly.

Lin Yuan sat in the personal residence palace, and had Song Shizhao and the others sit. Er Liang had already served tea.

“Let’s talk about the imperial palace first.” Lin Yuan didn’t go around in circles, but looked directly at Yang Shaowei, and asked, “Are you able to do it?”

Yang Shaowei’s heart was beating hard in his chest, and he quickly said, “I wish to share the worries of my Lord!”

Lin Yuan nodded: “The things that should be changed should be changed, and the rules should also be changed as well.”

Yang Shaowei looked at his teacher, hoping that his teacher would help him to ask, but Song Shizhao was motionless, so Yang Shaowei had to toughen his skin and ask: “Don’t know what changes you intend?”

Lin Yuan: “The existing eunuchs in the palace can stay. As long as they are innocent then there is no problem, but there will be no more eunuchs in the future. This will be the last batch.”

Yang Shaowei lowered his head.

Why were there eunuchs in the palace? Because of the concubines in the harem.

There were too many concubines in the emperor’s harem, and they couldn’t all be managed, but the emperor was also afraid that the concubines would cuckold him, so eunuchs came into existence.

Only by not allowing the concubines to see a normal man could he ensure that the concubines would give birth to his own children.

In addition to this, the eunuch was lacking and could not be an official, moreover their reputation was also damaged. Appointing and using eunuchs was not too dangerous.

But their Boss…..it seemed that so far, he didn’t even have a favored maidservant, let alone a wife. There was a concubine before, but turned out to be a spy, and couldn’t be more dead by now.

Yang Shaowei wanted to say that it was time to recruit beauties, but when he saw his teacher’s appearance, he closed his mouth again.

…..Just wait, when Lin Yuan had ascended the throne, they would then be able to admonish him on the grounds that the country could not be without a crown prince.

Besides, men were not like women. It was difficult for women to have children when they were older. But even if a man was in his 50s or 60s, he could still father children so long as he wanted to.

What was more, Lin Yuan didn’t indulge in beauty, and it was also a virtue to say this.

Lin Yuan also said: “I wonder if there are any good designers among the people who have followed over? The dragon chair, the jade seal and the crown must be reworked.”

Yang Shaowei said solemnly: “This is natural.”

Lin Yuan smiled at Yang Shaowei: “Then I will entrust it to Qingqing, don’t let me down.”

Yang Shaowei’s cheeks flushed when he heard what Lin Yuan said.

His response was full of vitality.

Then Yang Shaowei was sent off.

The expression on Yang Shaowei’s face became steadier as he walked out of the personal residence palace. He turned his head and looked back, pressing his lips lightly together.

He would not do these things all the time, he would let the South Bodhisattva see his abilities.

One day, he would climb up to the position of his teacher.

“How are the common people of Dadu?” Lin Yuan asked Luo Ben, “Is there a good strategy?”

Luo Ben said: “The people were all fleeing. Although a lot of them have been stopped, there were some fish that have slipped through the net.”

Lin Yuan: “You don’t have to worry about those who escape, just those who are still in the capital.”

“This capital city should also change its name.” Lin Yuan said suddenly.

Song Shizhao repeatedly echoed: “Naturally, it should have a new name now that there is a new master.”

Lin Yuan smiled at him: “Let us call it Beijing.”

“Good name!” Luo Ben was a step late earlier and rushed to praise at this time.

The history of Beijing as the capital began from the Yuan Dynasty. Later, Zhu Yuanzhang took over the capital of the Yuan Dynasty and changed the name to Beiping, which had a meaning of rooting out and treading flat. Later, Zhu Di took the throne from his nephew and moved the capital from Nanjing back to Beiping and changed the name to Beijing.

In the Ming Dynasty, Beijing was once called the capital of capitals.

The Qing Dynasty also used this name.

Later, the Republic of China was established, and the capital was set in Nanjing. It was said that because of fears that the warlords would regain their ambitions to establish a government, Beijing was changed back to Beiping, and it was only changed back to Beijing after the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

So the name of Beijing had been present since the Ming Dynasty.

Lin Yuan was also used to it, and he didn’t plan on creating another one himself.

Anyway, starting from the Yuan Dynasty, the country’s capital had repeatedly jumped between Beijing and Nanjing.

Lin Yuan still had feelings for the place name of Beijing. He remembered that he once took a train to Beijing that lasted four days and three nights. He got up at two or three in the morning and waited to see the ascent of the flag. The roads on both sides were full of people. He wore a backpack and held a binocular to see the flag raising.

At the moment the national flag was raised, Lin Yuan also felt an inexplicable pride.

This was his country, even if it had been swayed by storms, it still stood tall.

He also went to see He Shen’s former residence and ate Peking duck.

Sitting in the personal residence palace at this moment, Lin Yuan had the illusion that time and space were reversed.

Song Shizhao said softly: “I have already asked people to calculate the auspicious time. The eighth day of the next month is a good day for ascending the throne.”

Lin Yuan closed his eyes: “Then set the eighth day of the next month.”

Song Shizhao and Luo Ben looked at each other and retreated.

Er Liang waited for Lin Yuan to lie down on the made bed, and then muttered, “The bed should be changed too!”

You c an fi nd t he la te st cha pte rs at ( th e bl mu se . c o m )

Lin Yuan smiled and said, “Then change it.”

If the old did not go, then the new would not come.

He didn’t know what direction he would take this country to, but he would do his best to let the people live and work in peace and contentment during his lifetime, so that both the elderly and the young would have support.

Chatting and laughing with great scholars, and among my guests there is no unlearned common man. (TN: from poem “Inscription On The Crude House” by Liu Yuxi, Tang Dynasty poet)

If you would like to show some ♡  then please consider supporting this translator! ლ(⌒εー)ლ

Prev