Do You Know?: I, the Little Cabinet Elder, Regent of the World.

Chapter 267 Begging for mercy!

The first day of the eighth month in the fourth year of the Xifeng era.

The sun rises in the east, and a gentle breeze blows.

The main hall of the Jiang residence.

Dozens of chairs were arranged from top to bottom.

All those who took their seats, whether scholars or women with their hair tied up, young or old, all sat respectfully with their hands clasped behind their backs.

Among them, the scholars were mostly students of the Hanlin Academy, or former officials and clerks; the women were mostly ladies of noble birth or noblewomen from prominent families.

The assassination of the Grand Chancellor sent shockwaves through the capital region.

Students, former colleagues, and former officials of the Hanlin Academy came to visit him, all to pay their respects to Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao and to show their respect and concern.

The visits by noble ladies and women of high social standing were intended to appease the party leader's wife and to curry favor with her.

Two groups of people came to visit at the same time, but the eldest young master had not yet returned home, so they inevitably bumped into each other and spent time together.

Fortunately, the main hall has its own unique "public" attribute, so it is not a problem to share a room with others.

Besides those who were granted official titles, noblewomen, students of the Hanlin Academy, and former officials, there was one person who was rather special.

This person was seated in the main seat, his status slightly higher than that of the party leader's wife, Sheng Hualan.

King Jing, Zhao Shen!
"Is my husband really alright?"

Zhao Shen clutched a yellowed imperial edict tightly in her small hand, occasionally standing up to gaze at it. Her usually well-behaved face showed a rare hint of worry and irritation.

"Your Highness, please rest assured."

The chief eunuch, Song Yongchen, quickly whispered, "The Grand Chancellor is a man of both literary and military prowess, and good fortune always favors the virtuous; he is completely unharmed."

"alright."

With a reassuring word, Zhao Shen's brows furrowed slightly, and his agitation subsided somewhat.

However, despite the attempts to soothe him, the child was rather impatient and wouldn't let go until he got what he wanted. Zhao Shen's attention remained focused on the central gate, and he kept glancing at it from time to time.

Therefore, not even a single grain of rice cake or honey water was touched.

About the time it takes for an incense stick to burn.

"clatter--"

"clatter--"

A series of footsteps, neither too light nor too heavy, sounded.

In an instant, dozens of people turned their attention to the scene.

Then they saw a man wearing a purple robe, walking with his hands behind his back. He was tall and handsome, and every move he made was calm and composed. He had a calm, dignified and elegant demeanor, as well as a profound and majestic presence.

His commanding presence alone is enough to tell you that he must be a first-rate figure.

Typical superior demeanor!
"Officer."

With a soft sigh, Sheng Hualan felt a sense of relief, and her heart, which had been hanging in suspense, finally settled down.

Perhaps because of the presence of outsiders, Sheng Hualan did not rush forward. Instead, she gave a deep bow, displaying the demeanor of a noblewoman from a high-ranking family.

"My lord!"

With a loud shout, Prince Jing, Zhao Shen, grinned and clutched the imperial edict tightly before running over.

"King Jing."

Jiang Zhao was somewhat surprised and raised his hand in a gesture of respect.

"My dear husband, are you alright?" Zhao Shen asked, his face full of concern.

"I was not injured," Jiang Zhaoping said calmly.

"Oh!"

Zhao Shen breathed a sigh of relief and nodded repeatedly: "That's good!"

Upon entering the courtyard, dozens of ladies of high rank, noblewomen, students of the Hanlin Academy, and former officials all bowed respectfully.

"My lord!"

"Teacher!"

"Brother-in-law!"

"Father!"

Jiang Zhao nodded after hearing several different titles, glancing at them briefly.

Cai Jing, Jiang Huaijin, Sheng Rulan, Sheng Minglan, Huang Shang, Liu Zhi.
All these people, whether they held low-ranking official positions or were women in the inner quarters, were not qualified to enter the palace to discuss politics.

The main point is that those who are qualified to enter the palace to discuss politics report to the party leader immediately after being dismissed from their posts, while only those who are not qualified to enter the palace to discuss politics pay a visit.

"No need to be formal."

Jiang Zhaoping nodded, took Zhao Shen's hand, and walked over.

Upon entering the main hall, the air was filled with the fragrance of sandalwood.

On the wooden table, which was about ten feet long, were pastries, fruits, and an incense burner about a foot in size, from which smoke was being emitted in a shallow stream.

"My lord, this is an imperial edict from the Empress Dowager that I have instructed you to give it to you."

Zhao Shen shook the yellowed imperial edict in his hand and said in a low voice.

Imperial edict?

Jiang Zhao looked over.

When the Grand Chancellor was assassinated, the palace would send out imperial edicts to offer some consolation or appeasement.

However, usually it is enough for the emperor to issue an imperial decree.

The empress was known for "not interfering in state affairs" and rarely issued imperial edicts.

This time, however, was an exception.

Not only did the Empress issue an imperial edict, which was rare for her, but she even specially ordered the young prince to deliver it.

Of course, the reasons for this are not hard to understand.

Jiang Da Xiang Gong is a hot commodity!
Even ordinary families fight to the death for their inheritance, let alone princes, let alone the supreme throne and the country.
Parents who love their children plan far ahead for them, and the empress naturally had to plan and strategize for her offspring as well.

"In that case, I will trouble the eunuch to convey the decree."

Jiang Zhao did not pick up the imperial edict.

It was, after all, an imperial edict from the Empress, so some procedures still had to be followed.

To pick it up rashly would be to disregard the dignity of the royal family and to neglect the proper etiquette.

A nobleman?
The eunuch Song Yongchen, the chief advisor, was startled and quickly bowed, saying, "You flatter me, Your Excellency."

The Chief Eunuch was one of the twelve Grand Eunuchs of the Inner Palace Department, and in terms of power, he was probably the third or fourth most powerful eunuch.

Song Yongchen heard the term "Zhongguiren" at least several hundred times in his life.

But this time it's different!
This time, it was none other than the most favored person since the government began to govern—the Grand Chancellor Jiang addressed him as "the Nobleman of the Middle Ages."

How honorable!

Jiang Zhao nodded slightly and waved.

"Officer."

Sheng Hualan approached and called out softly.

After that, dozens of people bowed down in unison, from top to bottom.

The chief eunuch, holding the document, announced the imperial edict:

"The Queen's decree:
Your Excellency, Grand Chancellor and Duke of Zhao, Jiang Zhao, has received the mandate of Heaven to assist the state and uphold the balance of power to stabilize the nation. The new policies have laid the foundation, resulting in clean officials and prosperous people; the territory of Yan and Yun has been recovered, and military strength has brought peace to the country. However, a rebellious and treacherous villain has plotted a rebellion at the southern suburbs. Upon hearing this, the emperor and his ministers are deeply shaken!
In the past, when villains rose up suddenly, you remained calm and composed, as steady as a deep pool and as imposing as a mountain. Your courage and strategy were truly unparalleled, and the evil spirits scattered on their own.

The execution of the wicked chieftain and the imprisonment of his entire clan are proof of Heaven's will. With Prime Minister Jiang alive, the nation's fortunes will prosper!
He specially bestowed upon me ten bushels of pearls from the South China Sea, three boxes of snow ginseng from the Tianshan Mountains, and a set of soft armor made of gold silk from the Imperial Palace, to calm my mind and spirit.

His wife, Lady Sheng of Zhao, possessed a jade crane and gold hairpin, and was allowed to enter the palace the following day for a conversation.

With wings spread wide, what fear is there of mayflies?
If the public security officer cultivates his mind and assists the ruler in governing, he will be praised for all ages, and playing the zither and watching the clouds will be within reach!

Therefore, this is hereby proclaimed so that all may be informed.

The imperial edict was not complicated; it mainly consisted of bestowing some tonics and utensils as a token of goodwill, to show respect and appease the recipients.

"Your humble servant kowtows to express his gratitude for the Empress's great kindness."

"Your Majesty, I thank you for your great kindness."

Jiang Zhao and Sheng Hualan, husband and wife, bowed in succession.

Upon receiving the imperial edict, dozens of people rose one after another.

at this time
"The Empress Dowager's edict has arrived—"

A sharp shout rang out, and more than ten eunuchs stepped in through the main gate.

Jiang Zhao glanced at it indifferently and continued to bow.

"Edict of the Empress Dowager:"
The Empress Dowager, Grand Chancellor and Duke of Zhao, Jiang Zhao, with his talent in governance, assisted the state, stabilized the world, initiated new policies, and expanded the territory. He was a pillar of the nation, and his ten years of meritorious service are known throughout the land.

The assassination attempt in the southern suburbs alarmed me, and I have been restless day and night. Now, these rebellious and petty people dare to offend the pillars of the state—this is intolerable!

Fortunately, Heaven blesses the loyal and virtuous; how fortunate indeed!

A pair of sandalwood and jade-inlaid ruyi scepters and a Tang Dynasty painting of "Portraits of Meritorious Officials of Lingyan Pavilion" are specially presented to recognize their merits and to compensate them for their toil.

His wife, Lady Sheng of Zhao, was bestowed with a pearl crown from the South China Sea, and was allowed to enter the palace for a conversation the day after tomorrow.

Upon hearing this, all envoys are hereby ordered!

"Your humble servant Jiang Zhao kowtows to express his gratitude to Your Majesty for your boundless grace!"

"Your Majesty, I, Sheng Shi, thank you for your great kindness!"

The couple bowed again.

He had the imperial edict in his hand, but had not yet risen.

"The imperial edict arrives——"

With a long shout, more than ten eunuchs came to the door.

Jiang Zhao raised an eyebrow and couldn't help but look over.

Seamless transition, right?

"The Emperor decreed to the Minister of State:"

I have received the mandate of Heaven and inherited the great foundation laid by my ancestors. I am constantly vigilant and have no time for rest. I rely on my trusted ministers, for these ministers are men of integrity, and their wise advisors are sagacious.

Jiang Zhao, the Grand Councilor, Chief Minister of the Inner Cabinet, Privy Councilor, Loyal and Assistant Minister, Pillar of the State, Duke of Zhao, and Junior Tutor to the Crown Prince, is naturally intelligent and learned. He is skilled in both civil and military affairs and diligently assists the emperor.

He initiated new policies to purify officialdom and restored order in Yan and Yun to wipe away national humiliation. Ten years of dedicated service, his contributions to the nation were invaluable; his life was devoted to the country, a pillar supporting the world.

An incident occurred in the southern suburbs; a madman, instigating trouble, dared to assassinate a trusted minister at the sacred site of the suburban sacrifice! I was horrified upon hearing this, my heart ached with grief, and my anger surged to my crown. Fortunately, Heaven protected the loyal and virtuous, and the rebel forces collapsed on their own. This is truly a sign that the divine power of the nation protects the loyal and virtuous!

However, although you are brave and fearless, I am still very concerned. The disturbance has already occurred, and the mental strain is even greater.

A special decree was issued, adding 500 households to the fief, bringing the total to 7,500 households, with the actual fief being 3,500 households.

He was specially granted one hundred bolts of Shu brocade and one hundred taels of ambergris to calm his mind; and one thousand imperial guards were appointed to protect him.

You should further encourage your loyalty and assist me in my prosperous reign, take good care of your health, and achieve unparalleled merit, so as to become a wise minister for all ages!
Awesome!

Therefore, this imperial edict is hereby issued so that all may know of it.

The memorial was neither too long nor too short, and it mainly contained two important rewards.

First, it is a fief.

The fiefdom consisted of 7,500 households, of which 3,500 households actually lived there.

Generally speaking, the actual fief is about a quarter of the nominal fief, but Jiang Zhao's fief is more than half, which is quite extraordinary.

With a fiefdom of 7,500 households, it was an existence that far surpassed even the late Grand Chancellor Han Zhang!

Secondly, the Imperial Guards provided protection.

Throughout the century-long reign of the nation, there have been many Grand Secretaries, but only Jiang Zhao possesses this special privilege!

"Your Majesty, I kowtow in gratitude for Your Majesty's boundless grace." Jiang Zhao bowed deeply.

With the three imperial edicts in hand, dozens of people rose to their feet.

Students from the Hanlin Academy frequently exchanged glances, their eyes filled with excitement and admiration. Within half an incense stick's time, the Empress Dowager, the Empress, and the Emperor issued three imperial edicts of appeasement!

Is this the favor bestowed upon my revered teacher?
When the Grand Chancellor makes a move, the state moves, and the world moves!

The main hall of the Ningyuan Marquis's residence.

"call."

Gu Tingye gently blew on the tea, raised his eyes indifferently, and took two sips.
Below that, wooden chairs stand horizontally, numbering approximately several dozen.

Even so, there was simply no room for anyone to sit down.

The emperor was furious when the Grand Chancellor was assassinated.

In just half a day, the Imperial Guards arrested the entire families of the principal offender and his accomplices.

It is said that the charges and punishments were as severe as the execution of three generations of relatives, with the implication of executing nine generations of relatives and wiping out the entire military family.

Such a ruling is truly appalling.

The noble families were naturally terrified and quickly gathered together.

From left to right and from top to bottom, it has almost gathered all the powerful figures from military and noble families.

Marquis of Funing, Marquis of Zhongjing, and Duke of Liang were all deputy privy councilors.

Earl of Zhennan Wang Shao, Duke of Yingguo Zhang Ding, Minister of Works Cao Yi, and General Xiao Zheng.
Without exception, they were either veteran leaders among the nobility or powerful figures from the emerging generation.

Such a lineup could undoubtedly be considered representative of "military generals".

"Ugh!"

Marquis Zhongjing sighed, stretched his head, and hesitated several times before speaking.

The gathering of the generals numbered around a hundred people; even if it wasn't noisy, there was bound to be some discussion.

In reality, there was an inexplicable silence from top to bottom. Several vice privy councilors and newly emerging dignitaries all looked quite embarrassed, and no one took the initiative to speak.

Even those who were extremely anxious did not speak up.

You want to ask why?
That would be a huge disaster, an utter catastrophe!

The crime of assassinating the Grand Chancellor is far too serious.

The fact that the punishment started with the three clans alone reveals the extent of the Emperor's anger.

This is a truly catastrophic disaster.

Since the assassination of the Grand Chancellor, military and noble families have been under constant pressure from the emperor, the Grand Chancellor, and civil officials.

Everything points to one thing—the emperor and the prime minister are united in their intention to wipe out the military family!

The Vice Privy Councilor and the Purple Robe Military Honor—these figures who used to be absolute and imposing—have lost their voice!

The emperor refused to listen, and the chief minister was unwilling to listen, which meant that the military family had completely lost its voice.

Entering the capital was permitted, but leaving was not; it was like being in a prison.

In other words, military generals became fish on a chopping board, completely at the mercy of others.

With the combined power of the emperor and the prime minister, a forceful and oppressive force was established, and the era of military merit had come to an end!

In such a situation, discussing it serves no purpose other than to be annoying.

Thus, all was silent, and no one spoke.

"Ugh!"

A sigh broke the silence.

"Please plead for him."

Marquis Zhongjing, his face dark, finally sighed deeply and said, "I beg Your Majesty, I beg the Grand Chancellor. Only in this way can we have a glimmer of hope."

As he spoke, his gaze inevitably fell upon Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding.

Dozens or even hundreds of people all turned their attention to the direction.

The focus of attention was again on Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding.

In the midst of this dire situation for a military family, at its darkest hour, the only ones who could possibly resolve the crisis were Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding.

Firstly, all three were former subordinates of the Grand Master.

Gu Tingye and Wang Shao were both handpicked and promoted by the Grand Chancellor. Little by little, they were transformed into representatives of the new generation of military elites, both destined for the Privy Council. The effort and importance placed upon them were extraordinary.

Zhang Ding never experienced a low point in his life, and he could be considered someone who was promoted by the Grand Master.

From the moment Xihe opened up the border, Zhang Ding's life truly entered a period of "ascension".

Without the Grand Chancellor, it would have been impossible for him to achieve this.

Secondly, all three were important officials in expanding the border regions.

The emperor's ambition was to expand the territory and achieve unification.

As military generals who expanded the territory, all three were highly valued by the emperor.

Since it's valued, it naturally brings face.

In this way, both the emperor and the prime minister would take it seriously, and the three of them might actually be able to get a "reduction in sentence".

"Should we plead for him?"

Wang Shao frowned, tapping his fingers on the wooden table, and did not immediately agree.

As a new generation of hereditary military generals, he was not closely associated with noble families.

The darkest moment for the military family had nothing to do with him.

Therefore, Wang Shao seemed to be in low spirits.

Gu Tingye and Zhang Ding were in similar situations, both hesitant and not responding.

The reason is not hard to guess:

Both of them were worried that this would offend the Emperor and the Grand Chancellor.

He entered the palace to pay his respects and prayed for a "reduction of sentence".

If it succeeds, it will cost the three of them face.

If it fails, it could give the Emperor and the Grand Chancellor the illusion of being "betrayed," and consequently, it could lead to the loss of their trust.

The risk is too great!

The attitudes of all three were ambiguous!

Upon realizing this, all the hundred or so people present changed their expressions.

If even Gu, Wang, and Zhang don't go to the palace to plead for mercy, then the military family will truly be at the mercy of others, awaiting their judgment.

The Marquis of Funing, the Marquis of Zhongjing, the Duke of Liang, General Xiao Zheng, Minister Cao, and other powerful figures exchanged glances, all of them feeling uneasy.

"The military family is in imminent danger, and the three generals are the pillars of the meritorious family."

Marquis Zhongjing raised his hand in a salute and hurriedly advised, "If Gan Luo's crime is punishable by the execution of his entire clan, then seven or eight out of ten military families will be wiped out. In that case, even if the three of you are trusted by the Grand Chancellor, you will become like trees without roots!"

"Lord Gu is as prudent as General Wei, Commander Wang is as decisive as Li Yaoshi, and the Duke of Yingguo is as resolute as Ban Dingyuan. All three are highly valued by the Emperor and the Grand Chancellor. Only these three can resolve the crisis facing the military families." The Duke of Liang said solemnly.

Marquis Fu Ning hurriedly said, "I dare not hope to be spared from execution, I only hope that my entire family will not be executed, that would be the greatest blessing."

"Of the 120 noble households in the court, only the three of you can resolve this deadly situation. If the three of you can turn the tide with your mighty hands, then all the warriors in the world will be deeply grateful." General Zheng bowed solemnly with a dignified expression.

The other nobles also quickly spoke up.

They might analyze the pros and cons, appeal to emotions, or reason with people.

quite a while.

A resolute look flashed across Gu Tingye's face. He waved his hand and sighed, "So be it. We are all from the same military family. When it's time to step up, we have to step up."

"Indeed, a family united as one!" Zhang Ding exclaimed with his eyes closed.

"It is my duty, Wang," Wang Shao said resolutely, as if he had made up his mind.

The three then expressed their opinions.

General Zheng felt a chill run down his spine and couldn't help but say from the bottom of his heart, "The three generals are truly of noble character."

"The three generals are truly righteous!"

"We, from military and noble families, will never forget this kindness!"

"Generals, please accept my bow!"

The other nobles also quickly spoke up.

For a time, expressions of gratitude were heard continuously.

The second day of the eighth month in the fourth year of the Xifeng era.

Zhaowen Hall.

A hundred or so military generals and nobles gathered here.

After discussion, although the plea was mainly made by Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding, other military officers also chose to participate to demonstrate their "sincerity".

"What is it, is there something important?"

Jiang Da Xiang Gong had a sullen face, and his expression was not good.

Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding exchanged glances and bowed in unison.

The remaining hundred or so military officers and nobles all learned from each other and were extremely respectful.

Gu Tingye said earnestly, "My lord, more than ten纨绔子弟 (sons of wealthy and powerful families) openly assassinated someone at the grand ceremony in the southern suburbs. Their crimes are truly unforgivable."

However, the military families were largely kept in the dark about the assassination attempt and knew nothing about it.

"Is this a plea for mercy?"

Jiang Zhao glanced at it, shook his head, and waved his hand, saying, "Go and beg the Emperor."

His words were brief and rather indifferent.

The hundred or so military and noble families all paled.

Is it possible that even the influence of Generals Gu, Wang, and Zhang is no longer effective?
The Imperial Study, the long corridor.

Led by Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding, a hundred or so military and noble families bowed down in unison.

Under the expectant gazes of the crowd, the Grand Eunuch of the Directorate of Ceremonial stepped forward.

"The Emperor only said one sentence," Li Xian said calmly.

"What did you say?" Gu Tingye asked expectantly.

Li Xian glanced at the crowd and slowly said:

"A hundred or so members of military families came to see me. Were they pleading for mercy, or were they trying to force me to abdicate?"

At his words, the hundred or so nobles were all taken aback.

The several deputy privy councilors exchanged glances, their expressions subtly changing.

This has backfired!

The noble families believed that most of the people were sincerely repentant, but little did they know that in the eyes of the emperor and the prime minister, there was no shortage of intentions to force the emperor to abdicate.

Back then, didn't Ouyang Xiu and Lü Gongzhu force the emperor to abdicate using "memorials"?

How similar are these situations?
Marquis Zhongjing sighed and suggested:
"Let Marquis Gu, Imperial Censor Wang, and Duke Zhang plead for them."

The hundred or so nobles all nodded and left one after another.

If even Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding cannot obtain a pardon.

That was the end of a military family!

One incense stick, two incense sticks, half an hour, an hour, half a day, a day.
Assassination is a serious crime, an unforgivable offense.

The path to pleading for mercy for Gu Tingye, Wang Shao, and Zhang Ding was extremely difficult.

Perhaps it was because a hundred or so people were "forcing the emperor to abdicate" that the emperor's anger intensified.

For an entire day, the three of them didn't even catch a glimpse of the official's face.

For a time, the military and noble families were all terrified.

The safety and survival of the entire nation rest in the hands of Gu, Wang, and Zhang!

(End of this chapter)