Strategy for the Revitalization of the Late Ming Dynasty

Chapter 288 The Safety of the Dynasty

Zhou Shixian is not a person without any sense of propriety. His experience in the court over the years has greatly improved his ability to read people's expressions, and he has long learned to stop at the right time.

Naturally, he would not continue to persuade her. Anyway, when the time came to take action, he only needed to find an appropriate excuse to have a legitimate reason.

Seeing this, Zhu Cilang smiled slightly, then changed the subject and asked:
"By the way, you just said you had something to report. Is it the 'Important Affairs of the New Dynasty' that I asked you to write?"

The new dynasty is about to be established and the world is beginning to settle down. Not only do those literati with political influence need to discuss national policies, but even the ministers of various departments must carefully consider the policies and plans of the future new dynasty.

Which issues are most pressing? Which ones need to be immediately incorporated into national policy? These are the questions they need to seriously discuss.

When Zhou Shixian heard the emperor's question, his expression immediately became serious and he said respectfully:
"Yes, Your Majesty, I do have some important matters to report to Your Majesty."

He paused for a moment and continued:
"What I want to talk about is the problem of the literati making a fuss."

"Oh?" Zhu Cilang looked calm, as if he had already anticipated this topic.

He understood Zhou Shixian's duties. As the leader of the Jinyiwei, the movements of scholars were his primary focus.

"Tell me, who are the people making the noise?"

Zhou Shixian bowed slightly and replied:

"Wang Fuzhi of Jinling Academy, many self-proclaimed masters in Jiangnan, especially Qian Qianyi. He has arrived in Nanjing and has secretly met with Wang Fuzhi.

These people took advantage of the fact that the new dynasty was not yet stable and intended to interfere in state affairs and incite scholars to make irresponsible comments on state affairs, which was indeed a great threat.

Now that the world is unified, Your Majesty must be more careful about this."

After hearing this, Zhu Cilang's expression remained unchanged and he appeared calm, but Zhou Shixian understood that the emperor must be thinking of a countermeasure in his mind.

Although these literati have no real power, they still have influence among the people and the court. If left unchecked, they may cause unnecessary unrest.

Zhu Cilang nodded slightly, and asked in a calm but dignified tone:

"Anything else? Anything else you want to mention?"

Zhou Shixian pondered for a moment and continued:
"Regarding the issue of camps, I believe that we should continue to promote them in the northwest, Liaodong, and other places, as Your Majesty has suggested, to provide logistical supplies for the army.

At the same time, this is also an important means to encourage immigrants to reclaim wasteland and help military achievements.

In areas like North China and Jiangnan, the old laws can be followed."

Zhu Cilang nodded slightly. These suggestions coincided with his ideas. After years of war, the population of the Ming Dynasty had sharply decreased, the land was abandoned, and the social economy was in urgent need of recovery.

How to govern effectively, appease the people and restore agricultural production became the primary problem facing him.

Zhou Shixian continued:

"The population has been reduced by nearly half, leaving wasteland everywhere. Aside from the royal family's assets and the property of traitors that can be used for rewards, much of the land needs to be redistributed in order to restore normal economic operations."

He paused, then added:
“In addition to this, I think a few new policies can be added.

For example, if existing villages and forts had been cultivated for ten years, they could be converted into private property, and the grain produced could be converted into taxes. In addition, land granted as a reward and previously tax-free land would be taxed according to the new tax standards based on the acreage.

This move can not only avoid the drawbacks of the Ming Dynasty's garrison system, but also ensure financial adequacy and avoid a repetition of the same mistakes."

Zhu Cilang pondered for a moment, his brows slightly furrowed. Zhou Shixian's words touched the key point in his heart.

At the end of the Ming Dynasty, the country was in financial distress, the Wei Suo system was in name only, and the government army was unable to support it, which led to the disastrous consequences of peasant uprisings and foreign invasions.

Now that a new dynasty is about to be established, he will never allow such a thing to happen again.

"Well, you're right." Zhu Cilang finally spoke, with a hint of approval in his tone:
"When the country was first established, people's livelihood was the most important thing. If we don't solve the land problem and restore production, how can the country become strong?
As for those tax-free areas, especially those granted as rewards by the previous dynasty, they do need to be re-incorporated into the tax system.

We want a stable and vibrant country, not one that remains mired in the old problems.”

"Your Majesty is wise." Zhou Shixian quickly complimented him, but in his heart he admired Zhu Cilang's foresight even more.

Compared with those foolish people who only know how to please literati and officials, Zhu Cilang obviously has a broader vision and more determined execution ability.

"However," Zhu Cilang changed his tone and looked into the distance with deep eyes:
"Regarding the instigation of intellectuals, we must handle it with caution. Although these individuals hold no real power, they are adept at stirring up public opinion. If handled improperly, they could cause unrest among the people.

We cannot allow them to make irresponsible comments on state affairs and disturb the people, but we also cannot allow them to easily become political enemies."

"I understand." Zhou Shixian knew very well that dealing with literati was a major problem for the court. They could neither suppress them completely nor let them run wild.

How to find a balance between power and public opinion is the art of governing a country.

Zhu Cilang stood up with a serious look in his eyes. He already had a plan in mind.

The establishment of a new dynasty was not just a political victory, but also a thorough reform in ideology and system.

Those literati who try to interfere with the decision-making of the new dynasty can be an important force if they can be used for their own benefit, but if they insist on having their own way, they will become a threat.

He walked to the window and looked into the distance, as if thinking about a larger plan.

Zhou Shixian stood aside, quietly waiting for the emperor's next instructions.

After a moment, Zhu Cilang said softly:

"The country has just been settled, and many things need to be rebuilt. What I need to do is to consolidate the foundation of the country and ensure the long-term stability of the new dynasty.

You continue to deal with the clamor of the scholars, but remember not to cause further disputes. As for the other matters, I will make the decision myself."

"I obey your command." Zhou Shixian accepted the order respectfully.

Zhu Cilang secretly sighed in his heart that Zhou Shixian could see the hidden dangers of Yingzhuang and the financial difficulties brought about by tax evasion by officials and gentry at this time. He was indeed a man of long-term vision.

This is not something that an ordinary Jinyiwei commander can see. It seems that I have indeed underestimated him before.

Zhu Cilang was also aware that the redistribution of land and rewards for military meritorious groups would be unavoidable priorities after the establishment of the new dynasty.

This must be handled skillfully, otherwise it will become a source of trouble in the future.

As long as the timing is right, it is not difficult to collect grain taxes under a banner by relying on one's prestige.

"These suggestions are all very valuable, Shixian. You truly have an extraordinary vision. You're truly brilliant to be able to see these fundamental problems at a glance and realize that they need to be resolved as soon as possible."

Zhu Cilang praised with a smile, a hint of appreciation in his tone.

Zhou Shixian was somewhat flattered when he heard the emperor's praise, and quickly said modestly:

"Your Majesty, you are too kind. I have only picked up your wisdom and do not dare to claim any credit for it."

Seeing how humble he was, Zhu Cilang smiled slightly, then gestured for Zhou Shixian to continue.

However, to Zhu Cilang's surprise, Zhou Shixian expressed reservations about the million-dollar maritime trade, which left him puzzled. "Your Majesty, the people of Guangdong and Fujian are the most difficult to govern. The local clans are deeply entrenched, especially those merchants engaged in maritime trade. Their influence cannot be underestimated."

If one day these maritime traders collude with those scholars and intellectuals with ill intentions, the situation could become extremely dangerous." Zhou Shixian's tone shone with worry, clearly indicating his deep concern for the situation in the south.

He paused for a moment and continued:

"I believe that maritime trade between the two regions must be strictly controlled, especially trade with the red-haired barbarians. We must strictly guard against it and not let our guard down. If we leave it unchecked, it may lead to even greater disasters."

After hearing this, Zhu Cilang said calmly:
"Maritime trade does need to be better managed, especially after full opening. The annual tax revenue alone could reach millions of taels of silver, enough to support the military expenses of three navies."

"Full opening?" Zhou Shixian was surprised. He didn't expect that the emperor's idea was completely opposite to his suggestion.

"Yes, Shixian, for some things, we cannot blindly pursue stability and peace. It will be more conducive to the long-term development of the situation if we loosen our hands and feet moderately and give them some space." Zhu Cilang raised his eyebrows slightly, with a hint of deep meaning in his tone.

His eyes revealed confidence and decisiveness, and it was obvious that he had a comprehensive plan.

Zhou Shixian was a little stunned for a moment. He didn't expect Zhu Cilang to choose this approach.

Although he was a little puzzled, he still lowered his head and replied:

"My lord, I understand."

Although he did not fully grasp Zhu Cilang's deeper intentions, he understood the superficial meaning.

In fact, Zhou Shixian still had some doubts in his heart. He instinctively believed that the liberalization of maritime trade would bring a series of potential risks, especially when the local clan forces were so powerful.

However, faced with Zhu Cilang's firm attitude, he dared not say anything more and could only silently accept the emperor's decision.

Seeing that Zhou Shixian had doubts in his heart but did not refute, Zhu Cilang continued:
"Shi Xian, governing the world requires more than just caution and precaution. Moderate openness and tolerance can often bring unexpected results. Blindly suppressing will only trigger a greater backlash."

There was a hint of deep thought in his tone:
"Coastal areas like Guangdong and Fujian have always had frequent contact with the outside world, and hastily closing them off will only make local forces more stubborn.

If we can earn a good tax revenue through maritime trade, it will not only alleviate the financial pressure on the imperial court, but also dilute the influence of these local forces through the flow of wealth."

After listening to this, Zhou Shixian pondered for a moment and had to admit that Zhu Cilang's insights were indeed extraordinary.

Although he had never thought of fully opening up maritime trade, upon closer thought, Zhu Cilang's proposal was not unreasonable.

The wealth brought by maritime trade can indeed provide the imperial court with considerable financial revenue, and at the same time it can also weaken the monopoly of local tyrants on resources.

"Your Majesty is absolutely right. I am stupid and have never thought of this deeper meaning." Zhou Shixian said respectfully. Although he still had some doubts in his heart, he was very convinced of Zhu Cilang's vision and courage.

Zhu Cilang smiled slightly, with a hint of satisfaction in his eyes. Although Zhou Shixian had doubts, he was ultimately a sensible person.

Moreover, as one of his confidants, Zhou Shixian was able to express different opinions at critical moments, which was one of the reasons why Zhu Cilang valued him.

"Okay, let's just leave this as it is for now."

Zhu Cilang's tone became a little more relaxed:

"The full opening of maritime trade is an inevitable trend. We must seize the opportunity to remain invincible in this wave."

Zhou Shixian bowed again and said, "Your Majesty, I will obey your command."

As a monarch and a minister, Zhou Shixian naturally did not dare to go against Zhu Cilang's wishes.

He also knew very well that if he excessively pursued stability and unity just to maintain his own interests and completely blocked all channels for external development, that would be a situation that Zhu Cilang tried his best to avoid.

If he just wanted to establish such a rigid dynasty, wouldn't it be a waste of effort?

Even if this new dynasty is indeed better than the Qing Dynasty in some aspects, "better" does not mean that it is right.

It was precisely because of this idea that Zhu Cilang supported the establishment of academies, allowing scholars to freely discuss current affairs and establish small societies in various places.

His emphasis on the "Great Ming Code" was not only to maintain the rule of law, but also to lay a long-term foundation for social stability and prosperity.

The course of history does not exist in isolation but is closely interconnected. Every decision and every change may trigger unpredictable chain reactions in the future.

Some changes may seem small, but they may eventually cause huge waves; while other major adjustments may just become an episode in the long river of history and quietly subside after a period of time.

However, in this era full of huge political inertia, the challenges faced by Zhu Cilang are enormous.

Compared with the West's gradually expanding influence around the world, the Eastern Continent is relatively closed and has no powerful opponents around it, which seems to allow Zhu Cilang to develop calmly.

However, he knew in his heart that it would not be easy to carry out fundamental transformation within such a vast empire.

Even if the situation were to turn around, he was unsure whether he had enough confidence to push this sleeping giant to wake up and turn around.

Geographical limitations are no longer a problem.

Now, Zhu Cilang holds power and can use his identity and status to introduce various advanced achievements of civilization.

As long as it is handled properly, the transformation of civilization can still be achieved. This is not only a control of history, but also a gamble on the future.

Just as he was thinking, Li Guo's words interrupted his meditation:
"Your Majesty, military operations in the northwest cannot be delayed any further, and the reorganization of the army must be carried out as soon as possible. Shaanxi must maintain a force of more than 50,000 to effectively resist the Mongol threat from the west and north."

Zhu Cilang was a little surprised by this. He didn't expect Li Guo to have such a strong desire to expand the territory. However, the current situation did give him an excellent opportunity.

The Mongolian tribes in the northwest were in chaos, with the major tribes incompatible with each other and had not yet formed a unified threat.

This was a good time to send troops to the northwest. Zhu Cilang decided to adopt a strategy of both soft and hard tactics, at least through a series of military actions to deter the Mongolian tribes to ensure that the war in the northeast would not be disturbed.

During this period, the geopolitics of the northwest was complex and delicate, and the Mongolian tribes were independent of each other. If we could take this opportunity to weaken their power, it would not only ensure the security of the northwest, but also lay the foundation for future large-scale military operations.

Zhu Cilang knew that he had to seize this opportunity. After all, if he missed it, the future situation would be even more difficult to control.

Li Guo's strategic proposal to expand the northwest was taken seriously by Zhu Cilang. As a general with a large army, Li Guo not only had outstanding military achievements, but also had a deep understanding of geopolitical strategy.

This made Zhu Cilang more determined to implement the military reorganization plan.

"You are right. The reorganization of the army cannot be delayed, and the military operations in the northwest must also be accelerated." Zhu Cilang said in a deep voice.

His eyes were determined and he had a clear plan of action in his mind. By reorganizing the army and expanding the territory, he could not only consolidate the Ming Dynasty's border defense, but also lay a solid foundation for his long-term plan.

However, reorganizing the army is not a one-day job.

This not only involves the deployment of troops, but also requires sufficient financial guarantees and solid logistical support.

In order to ensure the smooth progress of the military reorganization plan, he will continue to support loyal and reliable generals to ensure that they can play a vital role at critical moments.

Right now, the situation in the northwest and northeast has touched the nerves of the entire empire.

(End of this chapter)