Ming Dynasty: Ask Zhu Yuanzhang to abdicate at the beginning

Chapter 467 Am I to Become a Charlatan? The Strategy of Pacifying the West and Winning Over the Hearts of the People!
Yang Rong's expression was solemn and his tone serious. Zhu Yuntong raised an eyebrow and a hint of curiosity arose in his heart. He said indifferently, "If you have any suggestions, please speak frankly."

Yang Rong bowed deeply and said respectfully, “Your Majesty, since the Heavenly Army swept across the northern border several years ago and pacified the various tribes of the grasslands, the might of the Great Ming Dynasty has been as bright as the midday sun. The people of the grasslands are all sincerely convinced and regard our Great Ming Dynasty as the mandate of heaven.”

“Those grassland herders have always been devout believers in the Eternal Heaven and Lamaism. Ever since they witnessed the power of the Ming Dynasty's firearms and the might of its iron cavalry, they have been so terrified that they regard my heavenly soldiers as divine generals sent from heaven, and Your Majesty is revered as the son of the Eternal Heaven.”

"The people of the grasslands regard Your Majesty as the 'Grand Master of the Nine Heavens Mysterious Jade Sect' and the 'Supreme Holy Emperor,' believing that Your Majesty is appointed by the Eternal Heaven to rule the four seas and benefit all people."

Yang Rong took a deep breath and said, "In recent years, the imperial court has established provinces in the grasslands, dispatched elite troops to garrison them, and appointed officials to govern them, using both kindness and severity."

"The people of the grasslands truly felt the boundless grace of the Ming Emperor, and their lives gradually became more peaceful."

"With the removal of border posts between the Central Plains and the grasslands, trade between the two regions has flourished, and people have been frequently exchanging ideas. The people of the grasslands can now purchase many goods from the Central Plains, and their gratitude to Your Majesty has grown ever stronger."

"In the hearts of the people of the grasslands, Your Majesty is already the incarnation of a god, and your decree is the divine oracle of the Eternal Heaven."

Yang Rong's tone revealed a hint of excitement: "The people of Ü-Tsang and Döghan share the same origin as the Lamaism believed by the grassland herders, and the grassland tribes around Xiningwei have always had close ties with the Ü-Tsang and Döghan regions."

"Therefore, His Majesty's fame also spread to these places."

“The barbarians on the frontier have never known the way of the sages. If we want to educate them, it will take hundreds of years.”

"However, if we take advantage of His Majesty's high prestige on the grasslands and order the heavenly soldiers and the soldiers of the grassland tribes to carry His Majesty's title of 'Supreme Holy Emperor' to lead the army to quell the rebellion, they will surely think that a divine army has descended from the heavens and will be defeated at the mere sight of it. In this way, we may be able to achieve twice the result with half the effort."

"However, this matter concerns Your Majesty's sacred name, and I dare not act on my own authority. I humbly request Your Majesty's permission to proceed."

A knowing glint flashed in Zhu Yunwen's eyes.

Yang Rong's suggestion, stripped of its layers of rhetoric, is actually quite simple.

The request was for the emperor to officially adopt the title "Supreme Holy Emperor," which the people of the grasslands had privately created for His Majesty, and to use it as a banner to launch a thunderous psychological offensive against the lands of Ü-Tsang and Döghan.

Ultimately, this move was intended to elevate him, the emperor of the Ming Dynasty, to a divine status.

However, emperors throughout history have had vastly different attitudes toward this matter.

Some monarchs enjoy deifying themselves, even actively adorning themselves with a sacred halo, and indulging in the worship of the masses.

Some officials scoffed at titles bestowed arbitrarily by the common people, and if any subject dared to echo them, or if the government came forward to approve them, they would be reprimanded at best, and severely punished at worst.

Some emperors who were raised with Confucian education only recognized themselves as the Son of Heaven, rejecting other titles.

Yang Rong's caution was not without reason.

Such a proposal touches upon the delicate boundaries of imperial authority, and could easily backfire if not handled carefully.

However, Zhu Yunwen didn't care about this.

The legends about him on the grasslands, such as "Grand Master of the Nine Heavens Mysterious Xuan Sect," were actually fueled by the Ming Dynasty's intelligence agency.

Although the Da Ming Daily never openly promoted the idea of ​​ghosts and gods, and always maintained a grand and righteous tone while praising the achievements of the court, its words had already exaggerated his great achievements in governing the country to an earth-shattering degree.

Moreover, his many initiatives, such as his poem that astonished the court, his invention of the printing press and the steam engine, his reforms, his pacification of the four directions, and his opening of trade routes, were all beyond the imagination of ordinary people.

In the imperial court, even some veteran officials secretly speculated that His Majesty might truly be a celestial being descended to earth, born with innate knowledge; otherwise, how could he have accomplished such incredible feats?

Not to mention the barbarians on the frontier, those illiterate herdsmen, upon hearing of Zhu Yunwen's many deeds, and with a little embellishment and deification, regarded him as the incarnation of the Eternal Heaven, worshipping him with utmost devotion.

Zhu Yunwen had no interest in the label of "charlatan" and even felt a bit self-deprecating about it.

But he knew very well that barbarian people always needed to find a god to entrust their faith to!
Rather than having them worship those seductive "wild gods" and even be incited to become enemies of the Ming Dynasty, it would be better to have them dedicate their piety to themselves.

Although he disliked being a "charlatan," he was willing to temporarily bear the name of "god" for the sake of the Ming Dynasty and its people, as a sacrifice.

Upon thinking of this, Zhu Yunwen nodded slightly, his expression calm: "This matter is not a problem. Issue an edict to the border officials and frontline generals, instructing them to act freely. As long as they can deter the barbarians, they are free to use their unique abilities."

He changed his tone and said, "There is another important matter that needs to be discussed with you today."

Zhu Yunwen stood tall, pointed to the Western Regions on the map, and said in a calm and firm tone: "In ancient times, the Western Regions were under the control of the Central Plains dynasties and were subject to the rule of the emperor."

"However, it has now been seized by the Eastern Chagatai Khanate and separated from the territory of the Ming Dynasty."

He squinted slightly, gazing at the vast desert on the map: "Compared to the treacherous plateau of Tibet, the Western Regions, though with its boundless sea of ​​sand, are more conducive to our army's firearms sweeping through enemy lines and traversing the vast wilderness."

"Moreover, the Eastern Chagatai Khanate borders our steppe tribes. If the court sits idly by and allows it to run rampant, there will be endless troubles and it will endanger the peace of the border."

"According to reports from the steppe tribes, in recent years the Eastern Chagatai Khanate has repeatedly violated the border, plundered livestock and valuables, and challenged the authority of the emperor."

"Such behavior cannot be tolerated by the Great Ming!"

"I intend to dispatch a large army to the Western Regions, wipe out the Eastern Chagatai Khanate, and return the Western Regions to the territory of the Ming Dynasty!"

Upon hearing this, Lan Yu's eyes lit up, and an uncontrollable excitement surged across his rugged face.

He stepped forward abruptly, clasped his hands in a fist salute, and proclaimed loudly, "Your Majesty is wise! As long as the borders are not peaceful, the interior will not be tranquil!"

"Although the Western Regions are desolate, with the might of our Great Ming army, it is not difficult to sweep this place away. It is even simpler than the previous campaigns against the Northern Yuan and the three Jurchen tribes!"

He straightened his back, his spirits soaring: "Moreover, all the tribes of the grasslands have been brought under the rule of the king. Our army can not only advance from Gansu, but also send troops from the grasslands to encircle the Western Regions."

"If Your Majesty wishes to pacify the Western Regions, I am willing to lead the troops as the vanguard!"

Lan Yu didn't show much enthusiasm when fighting against Tibet.

It wasn't that he was afraid of tough battles; it was just that the terrain of the Tibetan Plateau was treacherous and the air was thin, making it difficult for the Ming army to fully utilize its advantages in firearms and battle formations. Marching and fighting were like walking on thin ice, which was extremely frustrating.

In contrast, the Western Regions, with their vast lands and expansive skies, provided the perfect stage for the Ming army to display their might on horseback.

Zhu Yunwen's gaze lingered on Lan Yu for a moment, as if he was considering his options, but he did not immediately agree.

Yang Rong stared at the map, pondered for a moment, and said respectfully, "Your Majesty, since the Ming Dynasty came from the grasslands and the Jurchen tribes, the surrounding barbarians have long been terrified."

"Goryeo's initiative to seek peace is clear proof of this."

"The Eastern Chagatai Khanate was no exception."

"The Khan of the Great Khan, the Black-haired one, has sent envoys to pay tribute several times in recent years to test the court's intentions."

"I believe that if the court wants to recover the Western Regions, it may not be necessary to launch a long and arduous expedition."

Yang Rong spoke eloquently and logically: "The imperial court can order the grassland tribes to gather troops and feign an attack, and send a brigade of elite new troops to guard the border, beat drums to cheer them on, and create the impression of a large army pressing in."

"At the same time, we sent messengers to spread this message to the Western Regions, to spread the might of our Great Ming Dynasty."

"Subsequently, an envoy was sent to the Eastern Chagatai Khanate to explain the greater good and appeal to their sense of gratitude."

"The Black Fire Clan and their tribal leaders, awed by the might of our Great Ming Dynasty, dare not bow down and submit."

"In this way, the Western Regions can be brought under the control of the Ming Dynasty without losing a single soldier."

The best strategy is to attack the enemy's plans; the next best is to disrupt their alliances; the next best is to attack their army; and the worst is to besiege their cities.

Upon hearing this, Zhu Yunwen's eyes lit up, and he nodded, saying, "This plan is excellent and perfectly suits my intentions."

"Although the Chagatai Khanate dominated the Western Regions and was a powerful force, its hegemony was not indestructible." "As far as I know, the Chagatai Khanate was plagued by internal strife and infighting among its tribes, which had long sown the seeds of its eventual division."

"In addition, years of war have led to widespread public discontent and a gradual decline in national strength."

"Although the Heirhuozhe seized the Khanate and consolidated his power in the bloody battles of recent years, powerful tribes such as the Dzungar Khanate are still unruly and are waiting for an opportunity to make a move."

In recent years, Zhu Yunwen has spent a lot of money on the Ming Dynasty's intelligence bureau and military intelligence department.

Today, the Ming Dynasty's intelligence agents are spread throughout the surrounding countries.

No longer like before, unaware of the outside world.

Zhu Yunwen also frequently reviewed intelligence reports submitted by the Intelligence Bureau and the Military Intelligence Department, and was well-informed about the situation abroad.

"If we could send an envoy who is both wise and brave, to emulate the great deeds of Ban Chao of the Han Dynasty, to travel to the Western Regions, persuade the various tribes to form alliances, and with the support of the might of our Great Ming army, we might be able to win over the Western Regions without losing a single soldier."

"Such a brilliant plan, if it succeeds, will be enough to make him famous throughout history!"

He looked intently at Yang Rong and Lan Yu, his voice tinged with probing: "However, this important task is not one that ordinary people can undertake."

"The envoy must be familiar with the customs and culture of the Western Regions, possess extraordinary courage and insight, be eloquent and persuasive, and be able to adapt to changing circumstances."

Do you have a suitable candidate?

Yang Rong immediately stepped forward, cupped his hands in a gesture of respect, and said, "Your Majesty, I am willing to recommend someone for you."

"This man's surname is Chen, given name Cheng. He is a Jinshi (successful candidate in the highest imperial examination), well-versed in poetry and literature, and possesses strategic acumen."

"Previously, he served as a messenger in the Ministry of Personnel, in charge of important matters such as conveying imperial edicts and bestowing titles, and his footprints covered all corners of the country."

"From the Lingnan coast in the south to the Youyan region in the north, from the Minyue region in the east to the Guanzhong Plain, Qinlong region and the Hehuang region in the west."

"He has a thorough understanding of the local customs and traditions, speaks with composure, acts decisively, and possesses exceptional courage and wisdom."

"If entrusted with the important mission of going to the Western Regions, I believe that Chen Cheng will live up to Your Majesty's expectations and enhance the prestige of our Great Ming Dynasty!"

Lan Yu also stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, "Your Majesty, I would also like to recommend a general."

"This man is named Huo Liancheng, and he is a valiant general under my command."

"Although he has not been in the army for long and comes from a humble background with a low rank, his talent should not be underestimated."

"When he accompanied me on the expedition against the three Jurchen tribes, he repeatedly made great achievements. He was quick-witted and resourceful in battle, and his mind was meticulous. He had the demeanor of a general."

"If we can appoint this person as our deputy envoy, he will surely be able to work with Chen Cheng to pacify the Western Regions!"

As Lan Yu spoke, his gaze intentionally or unintentionally drifted toward Yang Rong. Instead of confronting Yang Rong as usual, he took the initiative to back down, only asking Huo Liancheng for the position of vice envoy.

Lan Yu was always very proactive in recommending his subordinates for official positions.

He also did not want to argue with Yang Rong at this time, which would result in both sides' recommended candidates not getting appointed. Therefore, he preferred to back down.

"Alright, since you two have made the recommendation, I will summon Chen Cheng and Huo Liancheng tomorrow. If they are truly promising talents, I will certainly employ them."

Zhu Yunwen readily agreed.

However, he would only feel at ease after personally conducting the assessment.

"You guys please step back for now."

"Furthermore, I hereby issue the decree that all officials of the State Affairs Department and the State Military Affairs Department shall each draft a detailed memorial outlining strategies for pacifying the chieftains in the southwest and the Western Regions."

"Let's all discuss this, pool our wisdom, express our opinions freely, and explore the most appropriate method to quickly stabilize the southwest and western regions."

This matter was of great importance. Although Zhu Yunwen already had a general plan in mind, he knew that the key to governing a country lay in accepting advice.

Let the ministers discuss and come up with a more ingenious solution to ensure that nothing goes wrong.

Yang Rong and Lan Yu responded in unison, bowed to accept the order, and were about to leave the main hall.

Just then, Zhu Yunwen suddenly raised his hand and called out to Lan Yu.

Once only the emperor and his minister remained in the hall, Zhu Yunwen rose from the dragon throne, stepped down the stairs, and personally took Lan Yu's hand, his eyes revealing genuine warmth: "Uncle, although Yang Shiqi, Yang Rong, and others are outstanding talents and highly valued by me, they were also personally selected and promoted by me."

"However, when it comes to blood ties, you are my closest elder and the one I cherish most."

"Among all the ministers of military affairs, my uncle ranks first and has always been my most trusted and trusted minister."

"In recent years, I have been busy with state affairs and have never had a heart-to-heart talk with my uncle to chat about family matters. This is truly my fault."

"If you, my uncle, have any heartfelt words, whether it is advice on national affairs or your displeasure, you may speak your mind freely."

"Even if someone wants to scold me, I will gladly accept it."

Zhu Yunwen said earnestly, "However, in the future, my uncle, you must not confront the officials in court again, lest you create discord."

"If anything happens, just report it to me directly. How could I not protect my own uncle?"

Only today did he learn that the Political Affairs Department and the Military Affairs Department had been arguing and attacking each other for a long time because of the war in the southwest, but neither the Political Affairs Department nor the Military Affairs Department had submitted a report.

This immediately alerted Zhu Yunwen.

There is an inherent difference between ruler and subject.

A subject may be able to open up to his colleagues and form alliances.

However, there is a natural barrier between the emperor and his subjects.

This is similar to how a class monitor can get along well with classmates, but it's difficult for a homeroom teacher.

Because students will always be students, and teachers will always be teachers.

The same applies to the relationship between ruler and subject.

However, this very rule could easily lead to the imperial power being undermined invisibly.

Those below them form cliques, advancing and retreating together, while the emperor remains oblivious, and his power gradually diminishes.

On the surface, he was still the emperor, high above all others.

In reality, many orders cannot be implemented.

Similar examples abound in the later stages of a dynasty.

Even if there were no powerful ministers in the court who could rival the emperor, the bureaucratic system itself had become self-sufficient, making it difficult for imperial power to penetrate it.

……

(End of this chapter)