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

Chapter 308: The Story of Li Shiji!

Royal study room.

Only one ruler and one minister remain.

"I wonder why Your Majesty has kept me here alone?" Jiang Zhao sat up straight, leaning on his arm and looking over.

Judging from his calm and composed expression, he seemed completely unaffected by Han Jiang's decision to remain in office.

Every word and action of his exudes the unique demeanor of a loyal and virtuous minister, a prime minister unparalleled throughout the ages.

Zhao Ceying looked down without saying a word.

After a few breaths, he couldn't help but sigh.

The human heart is made of flesh.

How could Jiang Zhao's heart not be stirred?
It's simply that their internal energy cultivation is so good that they've managed to conceal it.

"Ugh!"

"I want to demote you!"

This single sentence gets straight to the point, and is absolutely decisive.

贬？
Jiang Zhao was taken aback, somewhat surprised.

Han Jiang, a Grand Academician of the Jixian Hall, was allowed to remain in his post, but he thought the higher-ups were trying to establish a system of checks and balances!
The result? A direct demotion?
"this--"

Jiang Zhao's expression changed slightly, then subtly tightened.

Immediately, with a calm expression, he respectfully said, "Your subject does not understand."

贬！
In fact, the word "derogatory" is not uncommon for officials in the political arena.

Ups and downs, rises and falls, have always been the norm in officialdom.

For every person whose career is smooth, there is bound to be someone whose career is bumpy.

When someone gets promoted, someone else will inevitably be demoted.

The waxing and waning of the moon, whether in sunshine or rain, are in accordance with the laws of nature.

Even promising candidates for cabinet positions are often demoted.

Zhang Heng, the top scholar in the imperial examination during the Northern Song Dynasty, is a typical example.

Throughout his life, Zhang Ziping served as a high-ranking official in various regions, making him a first-rate "pragmatist".

However, even such a person never held a central government position in his entire life.

For a top scholar who lived a long life, not being able to enter the central government to govern is undoubtedly a sign of an "unsuccessful career."

The reforms of Wang Anshi during the Northern Song Dynasty are also a typical example.

The reformists and conservatives fought fiercely, and even prime ministers were repeatedly demoted and promoted.

The reason for this is that no one can guarantee that they will always be in power!
Where there is a tide, there is also a tide.

Therefore, since entering officialdom, Jiang Zhao had never doubted that there might be a day when he would be demoted.

Back then, the congratulatory message incident almost led to his demotion.

In the future, not every monarch will necessarily be a wise ruler; they too may be demoted.

but.
Jiang Zhao looked solemn.

The emperor wants to demote him!
This puzzled Jiang Zhao.

This is not to say that Jiang Zhao was extremely arrogant and looked down on everyone, believing that even the emperor could not demote him.

Rather, in the mere seventh year of the Xifeng reign, the Emperor had no need to demote him!
Firstly, the Liao and Xia kingdoms had not yet been destroyed.

Since the sixth year of the Xifeng reign, the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun have been restored, which means that the Great Zhou Dynasty has achieved unification.

This is definitely a good thing.

However, given Zhao Ceying's ambition and courage, he should not be someone confined to the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun.

The dream of becoming a great emperor of all time, Emperor Shizong, has been realized, but that doesn't mean there are no distinctions in the quality of emperors who are considered great throughout history.

Given the nature of the emperor, shouldn't he be focused on destroying the Liao and Xia dynasties?

Secondly, the reforms and innovations have not yet been successfully completed.

As the sole core figure of the reform movement, his sudden demotion had a tremendous impact.

Not to mention that the reforms were destined to fail, the political turmoil they caused was anything but simple.

Furthermore, it is known that the reforms and innovations have been underway for five years.

Five years!

Over such a long period of time, a "vested interest group that benefits from the reform" has been thoroughly cultivated.

The concept encompassed by this so-called "reform interest group" is quite broad.

All six Grand Secretaries of the Cabinet were, without exception, beneficiaries of the reform movement.

Otherwise, they would not have been able to rise to high positions.

Most of the civil and military officials who "made progress" were also beneficiaries of the reforms.

Otherwise, under such circumstances where reform was the sole guiding principle, their careers would have absolutely no chance of progressing in the slightest.

Even the famously simple-minded Qi Heng was actually a beneficiary of the reforms.

All local gentry, farmers, artisans, and merchants benefited from the reforms.

Heavy industry and commerce, the lifting of maritime bans, and the maritime and land Silk Roads all significantly revitalized the economic market and led to a surge in social wealth.

As far as Jiang Zhao knew, in just three to five years, the wealth accumulated by local powerful families had more than doubled.

Such benefits are unprecedented in a century, and that is no exaggeration.

Perhaps only the "founding dividends" unique to the Taizu era can be compared to it.

Ordinary people and commoners are also beneficiaries.

Putting aside everything else, the bumper harvest of Champa rice alone is enough to lighten the burden on the lower classes.

A prosperous nation and a strong military benefit everyone.

In this situation, everything was thriving, but then Jiang Zemin was demoted, making it impossible for the reform to continue.

Do the scholars agree?
Do the people agree?
Do the local powerful families agree?
If nothing unexpected happens, there's a high chance that people will be agitated by it.

Furthermore, given the current situation, which of the civil and military officials who are knowledgeable in military and political affairs was not selected by Grand Chancellor Jiang?

The character "Jiang" on the bodies of both Vice Privy Councilors Gu Tingye and Wang Shao is impossible to remove.

Zhong E and Zhong Shidao still command hundreds of thousands of border troops!

Who among Zhang Ding, Zheng Xiao, Yao Si, Guo Kui, Yang Wenguang, Zhe Kexing, and Jing Sili has not received favors from Grand Chancellor Jiang?
this.
Jiang Zhao frowned.

Well, with that kind of influence, it's normal to be wary of them.

But even if you're going to belittle someone, shouldn't you suppress them little by little?
Throughout history, when emperors demoted powerful ministers, who ever started by saying, "I am going to demote you"?
This method of belittling someone is too crude!

Jiang Zhao was very puzzled.

"What is it that you don't understand?" Zhao Ceying asked in a deep voice, his hands behind his back, staring down at the scene.

"I don't understand why the Emperor demoted me."

Jiang Zhao pondered for a moment, then rose and bowed, appearing quite composed, with a look of both doubt and surprise: "Is it because my virtue is insufficient?"

“Zichuan’s virtue is undoubtedly excellent. He has served in office for fifteen years without any bias, and everyone praises him,” Zhao Ceying said earnestly.

Jiang Da Xiang Gong is a man of principle, with high moral standards.

This can be seen from the well-known story of "Han Men Li Xue" (Han Men Li Xue).

"But is it because my reputation is insufficient?" Jiang Zhao asked again.

"Zichuan is a renowned scholar, famous throughout the land since he was just over ten years old. He expanded the territory twice, entered the cabinet as prime minister at the age of thirty-two, and became the prime minister of the country at the age of thirty-three. He is truly famous throughout the land!" Zhao Ceying still looked serious.

Jiang Zhao's reputation is also undeniable.

Whether it is his fame during his lifetime or his fame in history books, he is destined to be a first-rate figure.

"But am I not virtuous?" Jiang Zhao asked three times.

“Since Zichuan became prime minister, everyone has said that he is a wise prime minister in the imperial court.”

"A prime minister for all ages, his reputation is well-deserved. He is truly virtuous."

Zhao Ceying stroked his knees, unable to help but sigh.

In terms of virtue, reputation, and talent, Jiang Zhao is almost at the top of the list.

Such "divine beings" are extremely rare, even in historical records.

Jiang Zhao was somewhat surprised again.

He thought Zhao Ceying would argue back!

"If that's the case, may I be so bold as to ask why Your Majesty demoted me?" Jiang Zhao asked calmly, as if he had never felt any resentment, but was merely curious.

Zhao Ceying pondered for a moment, but remained silent.

This is a difficult question to answer!

The entire place fell silent for a moment.

The rest of the eunuchs and palace maids all bowed their heads repeatedly, almost crawling on their knees, not daring to make the slightest sound.

About twenty or thirty breaths.

Zhao Ceying sighed and said with difficulty:
"I am ill."

"Even a sick dragon cannot suppress a flying tiger."

"I am filled with apprehension, and my only recourse is to demote you!"

"In the future, the situation may reverse, and there may be a turning point."

Zhao Ceying chose a semi-confessional approach.

As a monarch who achieved unification, his prestige had reached a level that his predecessors could hardly match.

In terms of a century-long reign, perhaps only the founding emperor can be compared to him.

Theoretically speaking, it wouldn't be too difficult for such an emperor to demote a minister.

Even though this minister was the head of all officials!
However, theory is one thing, and practice is another.

The truth is, given Jiang Zhao's achievements, reputation, and influence, it's really not a good idea for Zhao Ceying to denigrate him through political maneuvering.

There's no other reason than that once the emperor and his minister are truly determined to fight each other, not to mention the unpredictable outcome, the aftermath of the political struggle alone would likely be enough to easily destroy a prosperous era.

This is actually not difficult to understand.

The struggle between the emperor and his ministers inevitably involves the issue of choosing sides.

This raises two major issues:

1. Are those who made great contributions to the expansion of territory always on the emperor's side?

Second, assuming the emperor wins, should the meritorious officials who sided with Jiang Zhao be killed or demoted?
Once a large-scale killing or demotion of meritorious officials is carried out, it essentially means falling into the problem of "internal strife".

From then on, the destruction of Liao and Xia, and the creation of a prosperous era, were destined to be extremely difficult!
Therefore, after careful consideration, Zhao Ceying had no choice but to adopt a "semi-frank" approach to persuade the Grand Chancellor to voluntarily retire.

It even subtly suggests there will definitely be a second chance for recovery. He's sick!

Jiang Zhao squinted, not noticing the "fear" in his words, but instead looked concerned and guessed, "The left arm?"

Zhao Ceying nodded without saying anything.

"What did the imperial physician say?" Jiang Zhao asked earnestly.

"It's still under treatment." Zhao Ceying gazed at her, sighing silently.

Jiang Qing cared about him a lot.

But there's no other way; we have to downgrade!

Lately, his health has been deteriorating.

It's becoming increasingly clear that his health has fallen below the average level.

He couldn't even concentrate on writing official documents and memorials.

The only course of action now is to demote them under the guise of fear.

"It's a good thing that people get treatment when they're sick and that they don't shy away from doctors." Jiang Zhao looked relieved.

Immediately, with a sincere and earnest expression, he said, "I entered the cabinet at the age of thirty and became prime minister at the age of thirty-three. All of this is due to Your Majesty's selection and promotion of me."

"Since Your Majesty intends to demote me, I will submit a memorial."

As soon as the words were spoken, Jiang Zhao's eyes turned red. He took a step back and bowed deeply.

With just a few words, anyone who heard them would have to call him a loyal minister.

"Your humble servant takes his leave."

Jiang Zhao bowed and slowly withdrew.

Zhao Ceying stared at him, his hands clasped behind his back, and he trembled involuntarily.

Jiang Qing is certainly loyal!

After a while, the figure disappeared.

"Ugh!"

Zhao Ceying sighed silently.

Liquidation, checks and balances, entrusting the orphanage!
He ultimately made his choice among the three options.

Jiang Zhao's influence is too great.

As far as liquidation is concerned, it is destined to be ineffective and doomed to fail.

After settling accounts with Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao, should we also settle accounts with Duke Yue Gu Tingye, Duke Dai Wang Shao, and Earl Weining Zhong E?

Or, to put it another way, should we purge the pioneers who helped us expand our territory?

The conquest of Xihe, Xifeng, the expansion of Yanyun, Jiaozhi, and the restoration of the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun were all accomplished by the same group of people—the Xihe faction with Jiang Zhao at its core!
If Jiang Zhao is dealt with but the Xihe faction is not, then nothing has been dealt with at all.

Even worse, it could backfire and lead to rebellion.

Or, after three to five years, when the young prince ascends the throne, and the civil and military officials join forces to remonstrate, Jiang Zhao will be reinstated!
The checks and balances are effective.

But once checks and balances are established, all the great achievements and the favor between ruler and subject will vanish completely.

The so-called golden age is simply out of the question.

Therefore, Zhao Ceying chose another path.

Jiang Zhao may harbor resentment at the sudden demotion.

However, as time goes on...

In the future, everything will become clear!
With his eyes slightly closed, Zhao Ceying murmured:
"I hope you won't let me down!"

Jiang Mansion, Study.

On a small wooden table, about ten feet long, lay a sheet of paper, neatly arranged.

Jiang Zhao stretched out his hands, his eyes slightly closed, and shook his head from time to time.

difficult!
A true man cannot be without power for even a day!
For those in officialdom, it is naturally best to not lose power.

Ultimately, no one can guarantee that there will be a second chance to rise again.

Jiang Zhao naturally didn't want to lose power either.

Therefore, he was already prepared to engage in a battle of wits with Zhao Ceying.

Even the question of where to begin has already begun to take shape.

Whether it was setting a trap for Shen Congxing or inciting the Tibetans to rebel, these were all excellent starting points.

At the very least, it could inspire the Taizong lineage.

In any case, there are countless methods to come up with.

Scholars in officialdom possess a wealth of experience in political struggles that surpasses that of any monarch.

Zhao Ceying was the emperor who achieved unification.

But ultimately, he was not the founding emperor!
Moreover, his reign was not long, only six years.

While its foundation is deep, it is not unshakeable.

But who would have thought that Zhao Ceying would start by belittling people?
This single sentence truly caught Jiang Zhao completely off guard.

Afterwards, Jiang Zhao took the initiative to ask the reason.

Is it possible to discredit Jiang Zichuan with just a few words?

Yes, the answer is yes, it's possible!

Through Zhao Ceying's semi-frank confession, Jiang Zhao roughly understood the reasons why he had to be demoted.

Zhao Ceying is sick, very sick!

Even a sick dragon cannot suppress a flying tiger.

Whether it was to consolidate power and quell the fear in his heart, or simply for the sake of the imperial succession and to pave the way for the next generation, Zhao Ceying had to demote him.

Having said all that, Jiang Zhao had no choice but to agree temporarily.

Of course, it's one thing to agree in the Imperial Study, but it's another to whether you still acknowledge it outside of the Imperial Study.

"Ugh!"

With a sigh, Jiang Zhao picked up the blank paper from the desk, a complex expression in his eyes:
"Carbuncle".

This is Zhao Ceying's illness!

Several of the imperial physicians in the Imperial Medical Academy were acquaintances of Jiang Zhao.

Just like the Imperial Physician Zhao who once traveled south to Youyang, he was quite familiar with Jiang Zhao.

His third son, Zhao Cheng, was a Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations). To repay the favor, Jiang Zhao had him selected for promotion several times.

The profession of "doctor" has always been one where the older you get, the more sought-after you become.

At the age of seventy-two, Physician Zhao was naturally one of the key figures in treating the emperor.

In addition, the He family of Baishitan has been physicians for generations.

The He family has always had a close relationship with the Sheng family.

Through Physician Zhao and He Hongwen, Jiang Zhao inquired and easily learned about Zhao Ceying's illness.

Carbuncles, indeed a serious illness!
"Demote him!"

Jiang Zhao couldn't help but sigh, feeling somewhat wistful.

For example, the stories of Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji!

This kind of drama is nothing new.

Of course, this raises a question—if the old emperor, in order to give the new emperor the opportunity to bestow favors upon his important ministers, resolutely demoted them, what if the ministers knew it was a "script"? Would they still feel grateful to the new emperor?
The answer is yes!
Many people believe that the core of stories like "Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji" is that the old emperor demotes people and the new emperor bestows favors, thereby making important officials feel grateful and loyal to the new ruler.

This idea is actually not wrong.

However, this view is rather one-sided and fails to grasp the core of the stories of "Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji".

In fact, the stories of Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji have two main functions:

Firstly, there's the so-called "being grateful."

Once someone is demoted, no one can guarantee a 100% chance of being reinstated.

The new emperor's appointment of important ministers is a favor he has done for him.

In this way, one can naturally feel grateful.

However, this is not the essence of the story of "Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji".

After all, with such a limited function, what if you encounter someone who doesn't appreciate it? Wouldn't that render it useless?

In fact, the true essence of stories like those of Emperor Taizong and Li Shiji, which is the second point, is a kind of moral conspiracy.

Throughout history, it has been quite common for emperors to demote high-ranking officials before their death.

Would the demoted high-ranking officials realize that this might be part of the old emperor's plan?
It can be detected.

They are among the most intelligent people in history. How could they not notice something amiss when they were demoted for no reason?
But the truth is, even if something is amiss, loyalty will still prevail, and gratitude will still be shown.

There's no other reason than that this is a morally motivated conspiracy.

The demotion of a high-ranking official was common knowledge throughout the land.

Conversely, the appointment of important officials is equally known throughout the land.

Therefore, regardless of whether the loyal ministers who were reinstated were truly grateful, in the eyes of the people, the new emperor was indeed kind to his ministers.

I have been kind to you, and you treat me as a national treasure.

What more can be expected if a ruler has shown kindness to his subjects?

Therefore, if a high-ranking official harbors even the slightest rebellious intention, he is destined to immediately turn against worldly morality.

After all, the ruler has been kind to his subjects, and it's one thing to be ungrateful, but to harbor rebellious intentions?

How can someone like that be considered a loyal minister?
This is something that the world will undoubtedly despise.

This is why stories like Li Shiji's are so effective.

Secular morality is an invisible constraint.

Any loyal and virtuous official will certainly accept this approach and will not find it offensive.

They might even feel grateful for the kindness shown to them by two generations of monarchs.

The high-ranking official who was demoted may not be grateful for the new emperor's appointment, but he will certainly be grateful for the old emperor's demotion, which gave him the opportunity to serve as a high-ranking official for two generations!
After all, the old emperor demoted someone and the new emperor bestowed favors, which essentially created a bond of gratitude between the two rulers and their subjects, which is a good thing.

Conversely, even a treacherous official without morality, who may have originally harbored rebellious intentions, must still be restrained by this system.

This is a purely overt scheme.

Whether the parties involved are aware of the situation or not actually has little impact.

Hmm. Jiang Zhao falls for this too!
"Ugh!"

"The Emperor has truly brought me great suffering!"

(End of this chapter)