Chapter 281 Breaking the pot!

The sun was setting, casting a gentle glow.

Zhaowen Hall.

"call!"

The finest Longfeng Tuan tea has a light, sweet aftertaste, a refreshing and invigorating flavor, and possesses the unique taste of tribute tea.

Jiang Zhao took a small sip and looked down indifferently.

Below him, Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing sat respectfully, one on his left and one on his right.

As for Wang Anguo, he was not summoned.

On the one hand, Wang Anguo's official position was too low to affect the overall situation.

This is not contempt, but the truth.

Wang Anguo is simply unimportant!
In fact, whether it was Jiang Zhao or the other Grand Secretaries of the Cabinet, the "internal strife within the reform group" they subconsciously defined actually referred to the struggle involving officials of the third rank or above, that is, the struggle involving the core members and core implementers of the reform group.

As for the other people's struggles?

Honestly, it's not important!
From ancient times to the present, wherever there are people, there will be a world of its own.

In officialdom, the key lies in "struggle".

Whether they are famous figures or unknown nobodys, conflict is the norm.

This is an unavoidable problem.

The difference lies in the fact that officials of the third rank or above, wearing purple robes, already possess a certain degree of influence, with protégés, former subordinates, and political allies, and represent the interests of a considerable number of people.

This means that once high-ranking officials of the third rank or above start fighting, they are very likely to "call on their friends and allies" and gradually evolve into large-scale conflicts.

The slightest misstep could lead to a split within the fragile reform group.

Therefore, those in power must use overwhelming power politics to restrain the core members and implementers of the reform group, and turn their attention to the opponents to establish a united political stance against the common enemy.

In other words, internal strife is unacceptable, but political struggle is!

This is why it is not advisable to allow Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing to fight amongst themselves.

As for some nameless and faceless minor officials of the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth rank, they actually did not have much influence.

In reality, low-level officials and clerks have no power to do or not do anything, nor are they qualified to oppose government orders.

The orders from above are "one," and low-ranking officials can only obediently follow the policies. Even for high-ranking officials of the first rank, or even those of the fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth rank who have made official decisions, no low-ranking official would dare to openly say "two."

Even low-ranking officials and clerks lack a true political stance.

The main difference lies in political stance and governing philosophy.

Once governance philosophies are discussed, the topic of "how to govern the world" inevitably comes up.

How to govern the world!

This topic is far too "highbrow".

Without a third-rank qualification, there's no chance to even consider it!

Therefore, infighting among lower-ranking officials of the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth ranks has little impact.

Whether or not reforms are implemented, even low-ranking officials and clerks are still fighting.

What those in power need to do is create a better political environment so that the capable rise and the mediocre fall.

Core members are subject to constraints, while non-core members create a favorable political environment.

In this way, the reform group can be united as one and reach a consensus internally.

Wang Anguo has too little influence and too low an official position.

If he weren't Wang Anshi's younger brother, his name wouldn't even have reached the ears of several Grand Secretaries of the Cabinet, so there would be no need to summon him, which would be a waste of time.

On the other hand, Wang Anguo may be a "troublemaker".

From the impeachment document submitted by Lü Huiqing, it can be seen that Wang Anguo was very likely the trigger for the infighting between Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing.

Otherwise, Lü Huiqing would have had no reason to impeach a mere sixth-rank official on his own.

If that's the case, then there's even less need to spread the word.

Jiang Zhao specifically summoned Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing, implicitly suggesting that the two should "mediate a truce."

If there's a misunderstanding, just clear it up.

However, it would be inconvenient if Wang Anguo were also present, as it might potentially cause problems.

"Tell me, why did you start fighting?" Jiang Zhao picked up the impeachment document and stared at the two men.

Wang Anshi remained the same.

He had a square face, dark skin, a burly build, and sharp eyes, but his face was grime-covered, his hair was disheveled, and his appearance was rather slovenly.

In comparison, Lü Huiqing's image is much better.

He was forty years old at the time, thin, with slightly graying temples, a short beard, and a serious, unsmiling face.

In terms of appearance and temperament, he can be considered a typical "outwardly respectful but inwardly reserved" personality type.

Just one glance is enough to give one the impression of being "well-mannered" and "capable of doing good things".

The question itself carried the imposing aura of a powerful ruler wielding absolute authority.

Even the air seemed to freeze, making one's heart race with unease.

Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing exchanged a glance.

"Jifu".

Wang Anshi, with his hands resting on his knees, pondered and looked puzzled: "Given our relationship, why has it come to this?"

In fact, Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing had a good relationship.

They could even be considered "intimate".

The two had known each other for a long time, shared the same political views, and could be described as like-minded.

On a regular basis, they often brewed tea and discussed philosophy, exchanging their understanding of the reforms.

Now that Muran has been informed of his impeachment, Wang Anshi is naturally somewhat bewildered.

Lu Huiqing stroked his beard, narrowed his eyes slightly, and said, "Perhaps the Grand Chancellor can show the document to Jie Fu."

Lu Huiqing knew perfectly well why the Grand Chancellor had summoned the two men.

However, upon calm reflection, it was indeed a bit impulsive to rashly submit a memorial to impeach him.

Having finally had a chance to speak frankly, Lü Huiqing naturally cooperated obediently.

Jiang Zhao glanced at it indifferently, took a sip of tea, and then passed the document down.

Wang Anshi picked up the document and glanced at it briefly.

The impeachment proceedings were not complicated, mainly consisting of two points:
First, the impeachment of Wang Anguo for discrediting the new policies may be suspected of forming cliques for personal gain.

Second, impeach Wang Anshi for lacking resolve in his reform efforts and for failing to properly educate his younger brother, thus deeming him unsuitable to continue holding power.

On the surface, they are two separate issues, but in reality, the core issue is the same: Wang Anguo has a problem!
"This"

Wang Anshi was taken aback.

Did I fail to properly educate my younger brother?

To be honest, he had considered many possible charges for impeachment.

Every official has some flaws, more or less; no one can avoid it.

But who would have thought that it would be "the desire for reform was not firm"?
Was Wang Anshi's resolve to reform wavering?

It doesn't hurt or itch, it's neither too light nor too heavy!
"Humph!"

Lü Huiqing snorted coldly, spread his hands, and said seriously, "Jiefu, it is rare to be summoned by the Grand Master. I will take this opportunity to speak frankly."

"Don't blame me for speaking harshly."

“Jifu, you may speak frankly.” Wang Anshi’s face turned solemn.

"Your brother, Wang Anguo, is no good person!"

Lu Huiqing's face darkened, and he said in a deep voice, "As your brother Wang Anshi, Wang Anguo actually maintains a neutral stance and often joins forces with some opponents to utter slanderous words."

"Isn't this a betrayal of the Emperor, the Grand Chancellor, and the reformers?"

Wang Anshi nodded with a solemn expression.

Lu Huiqing is right about that.

He had been aware of his brother's stance on the reform movement.

It can be said that if Wang Anguo were not Wang Anshi's younger brother, some of his "shocking remarks" would at least warrant imprisonment and exile.

Why is that?

It's not hard to guess!

The only possibility is that their knowledge is too shallow and one-sided, which is commonly known as "half-baked knowledge".

That's not surprising.

After all, Wang Anguo was a Jinshi (successful candidate in the highest imperial examination) in the first year of the Xifeng era.

At that time, his elder brother Wang Anshi was the deputy chief examiner, so Wang Anguo naturally took a separate exam.

With a success rate of three out of ten, it's practically a guaranteed pass.

"I hope Jifu will speak frankly," Wang Anshi said solemnly.

"Not only that, he also dared to sow discord between us."

Lu Huiqing's face darkened, and she said angrily, "Damn it!"

"On the first day of the eighth month of the third year of the Xifeng era, you and I discussed the Dao under the moon."

"That little brat actually called me a sycophantic and cunning person."

Lu Huiqing kept rambling on, looking like she had been holding a grudge for a long time, and began to pour out her grievances.

Wang Anshi would nod occasionally, or utter a few words of apology and remorse.

Jiang Zhao held his teacup and silently ate the melon.

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

"Wang Jiepu, tell me, who is right and who is wrong?!" Lü Huiqing slammed his hand on the wooden chair, his face full of indignation.

"This"

Wang Anshi stood up decisively, bowed deeply, and said, "Jifu, Wang Anshi is sorry!"

"In this matter, it was indeed due to Anshi's negligence and poor teaching."

Lu Huiqing snorted coldly, her anger still simmering, yet she rose with considerable composure and offered a polite bow. Jiang Zhao raised an eyebrow, understanding dawning on him.

Generally speaking, political struggles are definitely for political resources.

Or perhaps, they simply had their eyes on the other person's official position.

However, Lü Huiqing was a fourth-rank official, while Wang Anshi was a second-rank official, a significant difference between the two.

Lü Huiqing's impeachment of Wang Anshi was certainly not for the sake of his official position.

In fact, Lü Huiqing submitted his impeachment memorial for one reason only:
Gan Wang Anguo!

Lü Huiqing and Wang Anshi had a very good relationship.

However, the relationship between Lü Huiqing and Wang Anguo was quite bad.

On the first day of the eighth month of the third year of the Xifeng era, Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing discussed philosophy under the moon. It should have been a rare and profound conversation between kindred spirits.

Unexpectedly, Wang Anguo suddenly appeared and openly despised Lü Huiqing's character, considering him a sycophantic and cunning person, which put Lü Huiqing in a very awkward position, unable to leave or stay.

If Wang Anshi hadn't taken the initiative to apologize afterward, Lü Huiqing would have almost thought she had been set up for a trap.

Regardless of the circumstances, Lü Huiqing and Wang Anguo thus formed a deep-seated enmity.

At the end of January in the fourth year of the Xifeng reign, Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing brewed tea and discussed the effectiveness of the reforms and the annual budget.

Unexpectedly, Wang Anguo started playing the flute.

To teach his younger brother, Wang Anshi said, "You should put down the music of Zheng," meaning he should not indulge in decadent music.

In response, Wang Anguo retorted, "I wish you would stay away from treacherous people."

Upon hearing this, Lü Huiqing knew that Wang Anguo was targeting her, and she harbored resentment from then on.

In addition, Wang Anguo publicly criticized Lü Huiqing's reform measures on several occasions, believing that he lacked the ability to implement them. He even openly advised Wang Anshi to maintain a neutral attitude and not to carry out the reforms, believing that the reforms might lead to the destruction of families and the loss of wealth and status.

All sorts of comments, big and small, reached Lü Huiqing's ears to some extent.

Among them were words that sowed discord between Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing, as well as words that slandered the new policies.

Their behavior, while not exactly heinous, was not far off.

Unfortunately, they show no sign of correcting their behavior!
Love extends to everything connected to the house; hate extends to everything connected to the house.

Such behavior was naturally seen by Lü Huiqing as a failure of his elder brother Wang Anshi's proper upbringing.

However, due to Wang Anshi's presence, he couldn't easily lash out and could only endure it.

As a result, at the end of August, Lü Huiqing heard Wang Anguo criticize her in public.

How could a high-ranking official of the fourth rank, the "successor" of Fu Bi and Han Jiang's faction, tolerate this any longer?
Enraged, Lü Huiqing decided to impeach both men simultaneously.

This led to internal strife.

"Whether it was Jie Fu or Ji Fu, they were both working for the cause of reform."

Jiang Zhao raised an eyebrow and said calmly, "It's good that the misunderstanding has been cleared up."

Wang Anshi and Lü Huiqing exchanged a glance, both sitting solemnly without uttering a sound.

The misunderstanding was cleared up temporarily, but both of them needed some time to calm down, and it was impossible for them to return to normal immediately.

"However, they were all reformers who were well-known and respected in the government."

"If this internal strife goes unpunished, it may encourage further infighting, which would have a negative impact."

Jiang Zhao looked down and said calmly, "Both of you must be demoted."

"I leave it to you, Your Excellency, to decide." Lü Huiqing said with a serious expression.

“Anshi agrees.” Wang Anshi nodded in agreement.

Several Grand Secretaries of the Cabinet have revealed more or less about the fates of the two men.

His demotion was inevitable!
“Recently, there has been unrest in the northern border region. Jiaozhi was destroyed not long ago, and there may be those who follow suit.”

"Jiefu, then take up the post of Grand Protector of the Southwest Protectorate and temporarily have full authority over all military and political affairs in Jiaozhi."

"Yes, sir." Wang Anshi bowed.

Jiang Zhao looked at Lü Huiqing and continued to pronounce the verdict: "The decree on semi-free education has only been issued recently, and it can be considered a barely acceptable place. Jifu, then go to the Imperial Academy to serve as the Director of Studies."

"Yes, sir." Lü Huiqing nodded and bowed.

In just a few words, both men were somewhat demoted.

The Southwest Protectorate was a second-rank official position, and the Grand Protector was also a second-rank official position. Wang Anshi was demoted from a first-rank official to a second-rank official.

The Imperial Academy was a fourth-rank institution, and the Director of Studies was the assistant to the Chancellor, a fifth-rank institution. Lü Huiqing, a fourth-rank official, was demoted to a fifth-rank official.

Of course, the criticism wasn't too harsh.

Even so, it is enough to deter others.

After all, Jiang Zhao's high regard for Wang Anshi was common knowledge.

If even Wang Anshi could be demoted for offending someone, then others would naturally be no exception.

"As for Wang Anguo..."

Jiang Zhao said calmly, "Demote him to the ninth rank."

"Yes." Wang Anshi nodded quickly.

After the verdict was announced, both men stepped down.

Jiang Zhao looked at it and couldn't help but shake his head.

Writers care about a certain "spirit," and often torment themselves for the sake of that spirit!

Even outside the temple, they did not stop.

Just like these past few days, the opponents, who were already dead and forgotten, have started a new "battle of orthodoxy" to try to deny the reform from a theoretical and doctrinal perspective.

Difficult!

……

Xingqing Prefecture, Baigao Palace.

There was no one on the steps of the imperial palace.

A curtain was drawn, revealing a beautiful woman sitting there, draped in a phoenix robe and adorned with a golden hairpin and phoenix crown, exuding an indescribable air of majesty.

This was none other than Empress Dowager Liang.

In the center of the main hall stood a man, none other than Liang Yili, the emperor's brother-in-law.

"Seven hundred thousand men marching south?"

Beneath the curtain, Empress Dowager Liang picked up the document, glanced at it twice, and her voice couldn't help but contain a hint of surprise.

Are you bragging?

Even though Liang was not knowledgeable in military and political affairs, he still knew how fake the "700,000 people" figure really was.

In the first year of Jingde (1004), Empress Dowager Xiao led a southern expedition, which nearly reached Bianjing (Kaifeng) and resulted in the signing of the famous Treaty of Shanyuan. However, she only deployed 200,000 troops.

The key question is, could the Liao Dynasty afford a 700,000-strong army to launch a southern expedition?
"Since the great defeat at Yanmen Valley, Yelü Hongji has lost nearly 60,000 of his elite troops."

Liang Yili pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "Now, having suffered a defeat less than two years ago, they want to launch a second southern expedition. This is nothing more than a desperate act."

"Seven hundred thousand is unlikely. However, around one hundred thousand is probably possible."

"Ah."

Empress Dowager Liang nodded slightly.

As a nomadic regime, the Liao Dynasty was a typical example of a nation where "the entire population was a soldier."

Almost any young adult of the appropriate age can take up a horse and start playing.

As a result, its standing army numbered approximately 700,000 to 800,000.

Given Yelü Hongji's status and power, it was not impossible for him to raise another 100,000 soldiers after a major defeat.

Of course, this is a one-time opportunity.

The Liao Dynasty was composed of a very diverse group of people, with the Khitan people making up only one-eighth of the total population.

If the second southern expedition results in further heavy losses of core troops, the Liao state will likely descend into turmoil.

After all, the Khitan people had oppressed other ethnic groups quite a bit.

"How many troops has the Emperor's brother-in-law decided to send?" Empress Dowager Liang asked softly.

In name, she was the emperor's mother, ruling from behind the curtain.

However, the actual person in power was still Liang Yili, the emperor's brother-in-law.

"One hundred thousand!" Liang Yili said heavily, his face grim.

"One hundred thousand?" Empress Dowager Liang exclaimed in surprise, "Why?"

"It's a do-or-die battle," Liang Yili said in a deep voice.

Yelü Hongji was fighting a desperate battle, but wasn't the Great Xia also fighting a battle with its back to the wall?
From the moment Jiang Zichuan's reforms succeeded, the opportunity for "unification" was destined to arise.

Alternatively, the Great Zhou Dynasty could achieve unification.

Either the fate of the Great Zhou Dynasty is sealed, forcing it to continue its decline.

"And His Majesty is also growing up," Liang Yili reminded him.

The little emperor is already eleven years old; he's about to grow up!
Even if Li Bingchang did nothing, his prestige as emperor continued to rise day by day.

Moreover, Li Bingchang is not stupid!

This is extremely frightening.

It is not hard to foresee that as Li Bingchang’s prestige grows, the Liang family will likely face dire consequences one day.

Faced with this predicament, there is only one solution:
A domesticated emperor!

Through war, they elevated the prestige of the Liang clan, thereby suppressing the emperor's presence and arranging for Li Bingchang to give birth to a son.

Subsequently, the emperor unfortunately died of illness, and the Empress Dowager was forced to continue ruling from behind the curtain.

The external threat stemmed from the possibility of the Great Zhou achieving unification.

An internal threat: the little emperor who is about to grow up.

Both factors forced Liang Yili to amass a large force!

"it is good."

Madam Liang nodded: "The Imperial Uncle can make all the decisions himself."

……

(End of this chapter)

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