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

Chapter 310 Reactions from all parties!

Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao has claimed to be ill!
What is a Grand Chancellor?
He held the positions of Grand Chancellor, Grand Secretary, and Privy Councilor, making him a prime minister with the demeanor of an ancient prime minister.

The term "宰" (zai) means to govern or rule.

The term "相" (xiāng) means to assist or support.

The term "prime minister" refers to a person who assists the monarch in governing the country.

This is truly a position second only to one person, above all others.

Every word and action contributes to governance and national policy.

Every move they make is related to the fate of the nation.

In the officialdom, power is concentrated in two main centers.

Firstly, that is, the government.

The imperial family is the legitimate successor to the throne and the ruler of the land.

Secondly, there is the Grand Chancellor.

The Grand Chancellor is the highest-ranking official in the country, responsible for governing the entire realm.

Compared to previous prime ministers and grand ministers, Jiang Zhao's influence is even greater.

His reforms and his two temporary administrations of state affairs significantly enhanced his influence.

Not to mention its century-long reign, even if we look at the vast history of ancient China, its influence is probably among the most significant.

Such an existence is undoubtedly the core focus of those who serve as ministers.

One pass ten, ten pass a hundred.

Civil and military officials, as well as ordinary people, all paid close attention to it and discussed it extensively.

Han Mansion.

On the top of the wall, which is about ten feet high, there are occasional patches of white, which are the snow that has not yet melted.

"call!"

A sip of mutton soup warms the heart.

Han Jiang, who was sixty-two years old at the time, often frowned, showing signs of unease.

"cough!"

"What did the Emperor say?"

Two other people were sitting to Han Jiang's right.

One of them, stroking his long beard from time to time, had a serious expression and an air of unsmiling demeanor.

The remaining person had a square face and a gentle, mild demeanor, much like a gentleman from ancient times.

Both men were around fifty years old; one was named Han Wei, and the other Han Zhen.

Now, it is said that the entire country consisted of one prefecture, two capitals, and fifteen circuits, with prominent families scattered throughout.

A rough calculation shows that if a county is considered one of the three major county-level aristocrats and a prefecture is considered one of the three major prefecture-level aristocrats, then there are approximately four thousand major county-level aristocrats and seven hundred major prefecture-level aristocrats in the country.

With four or five thousand households belonging to counties and prefectures, it was inevitable that distinctions of rank would arise.

The Han family of Yongqiu is a typical example of a "high-ranking noble family," and even among prominent families, they are considered to be among the most distinguished.

The reason for this is that two generations of the Han family from Yongqiu have successively served as prime ministers.

Furthermore, it is known that Han Jiang's father, Han Yi, was an upright man who was highly trusted by the former Minister Wang Dan and was chosen by him as his son-in-law. From then on, he rose step by step to become a Vice Minister of State Affairs and entered the cabinet to become a prime minister.

This person is also one of the few who rose to the position of prime minister through the path of imperial censor.

Han Yi has eight children.

The eldest son, Han Gang, the second son, Han Zong, the fourth son, Han Yi, the seventh son, Han Wei, and the eighth son, Han Mian, were all incompetent.

Those who entered officialdom were mostly limited to ranks below the fifth grade.

Only his third son, Han Jiang, his fifth son, Han Wei, and his sixth son, Han Zhen, were relatively successful.

To be precise, he is very promising!
The eight sons of the Han family were extremely polarized, with the worst being extremely bad and the most promising being extremely promising.

Among them, the third son, Han Jiang, has already entered the cabinet and become a prime minister, making it a well-known story of "two prime ministers, father and son".

Han Wei, the fifth son, was mild-mannered but firmly supported the reforms and had a good track record. He was already the Pacification Commissioner of Hebei West Circuit, a second-rank official.

The sixth son, Han Zhen, was a serious man and had already become the Left Vice Censor-in-Chief, a third-rank official.

Han Jiang was sixty-two years old at the time.

Han Wei was fifty-six years old at the time.

Han Zhen was fifty-four years old at the time.

If nothing unexpected happens, Han Wei and Han Zhen will likely be promoted during this major performance evaluation.

These three individuals, some already in the cabinet and others with the potential to do so, were collectively known as the "Three Hans."

The one who initiated the conversation was Han Wei, one of the "Three Hans".

Recently, Han Wei, who governs Hebei West Road, a key border town, has been assigned to go to the capital to report on his duties, as the government is involved in the annual budget of all departments.

"Ugh!"

With a sigh, Han Jiang shook his head, his face filled with unspeakable sorrow, a hint of grief flashing in his eyes: "The heart of a ruler is unfathomable!"

"What do you mean?" Han Wei's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly asked.

The third elder brother, Han Jiang, is already sixty-two years old and has been a cabinet member for six years. The Han family has long anticipated that he will retire.

Surprisingly, the emperor did not allow him to retire, but instead allowed him to remain in office to govern the country.

That's fine.

Crucially, the eldest son also claimed to be ill and refused to leave his home.

It would be hard to believe that there is absolutely no connection between these events.

"Why do you think the Emperor allowed me to remain in my post?" Han Jiang didn't rush to answer, but instead asked a question in return.

Without hesitation, Han Wei calmly replied, "It is naturally to check and balance the Grand Chancellor."

This was not only Han Wei's opinion, but also the opinion of all the civil and military officials.

The reason for this is that Han Jiang was "not worthy of his position".

His own abilities are not up to the level required to serve in the cabinet for more than six years.

In a century-long reign, very few cabinet members have served for more than six years.

Zhao Pu has been in the cabinet for nine years.

Xue Juzheng served in the cabinet for eight years.

Ludoson served in the cabinet for nine years.

Lü Yijian served in the cabinet for seven years.

In addition, there was Grand Chancellor Han Zhang, who held power for more than ten years, and Wen Yanbo, who had experienced numerous ups and downs and served in the cabinet for more than twenty years.

There are only a handful of people like that.

Without exception, they were all top civil servants.

It is extremely difficult for anyone who is not a prime minister or high-ranking official to serve in the cabinet for more than six years.

Similarly, it is extremely difficult for a non-prime minister to compete with a prime minister in terms of political achievements and influence.

In terms of political achievements, Han Jiang benefited from the reforms and innovations, and his achievements may not be inferior to those of the aforementioned individuals.

However, in terms of influence, it is destined to fall far short.

During the reign of the Grand Chancellor, the influence of the other Grand Secretaries in the cabinet was destined to be overshadowed by him, and they could not truly "stand out".

Given this situation, the fact that Han Jiang was retained for a second term, exceeding six years, can only mean one thing—the emperor feared the Grand Chancellor and wanted to check and balance him!
After all, it wouldn't be appropriate to appoint Han Jiang as the head of all officials, would it?

"No."

Han Jiang shook her head and denied it.

"Is that not so?"

Han Wei was taken aback, somewhat surprised: "The Emperor doesn't intend for his elder brother to check and balance the Grand Chancellor?"

Han Jiang sighed and nodded: "Today, when I entered the palace to pay my respects, I tried to subtly probe the reasons for my continued service."

"Guess what the Emperor said?"

"Your Majesty, your words and actions show no restraint whatsoever. Instead, you inquire about my political views!"

"this--"

Han Wei was taken aback, then his expression changed: "Your Majesty, do you want my elder brother to rule the world?"

"Hi~!"

With just this one sentence, even Han Zhen, the Left Vice Censor-in-Chief who had not spoken before, couldn't help but frown repeatedly.

Furthermore, it is known that Han Jiang is not a newcomer about to join the cabinet.

Generally speaking, unless a new person is joining the cabinet, the emperor will almost never ask them for their political views.

After all, once someone enters the cabinet, it is not difficult to discern the political views of a Grand Secretary through the handling of daily administrative affairs.

However, there is one exception.

To rule the world!

Entering the cabinet and becoming prime minister, and being consulted on political views, mainly because the Grand Secretaries of the Cabinet have a global perspective and the political landscape has changed and is no longer the same.

When the prime minister governs the country and seeks advice on policies, the chief minister and the grand prime minister are the main administrators, and their governing style is of paramount importance and cannot be ignored.

Now that the Emperor is consulting Han Jiang's opinion, isn't that a way of asking him to rule the world?
Doesn't this mean...?

Han Wei hesitated, as if he wanted to say something but then stopped.

Judging from his appearance, he was very solemn and did not show any joy at the fact that his elder brother Han Jiang was about to rule the world.

"So, does this mean the Emperor intends to settle scores with the Grand Chancellor?" Han Zhen frowned, his face solemn.

"Ah."

Han Jiang sighed, his face a complex mix of emotions. He, too, was not overly excited about the possibility of ruling the world.

On the one hand, Han Jiang had already achieved great success.

As one of the twenty-four meritorious officials listed in the Zhaoxun Pavilion, Han Jiang's life was filled with honors.

Holding the reins of power does not elevate one's reputation in any way.

As a Grand Secretary of the Cabinet for six years, he had students and former subordinates all over the country.

To rule the world is merely a limited enhancement of one's influence.

in contrast
The reformist regime of the eldest son is too difficult to handle!
If he had been careless, the new policies would have collapsed, and centuries later, future generations would probably have condemned him to death.

It's even possible that some conspiracy theories could emerge.

As the old saying goes—if history books don't record it in detail, then I'll start making it up!
Who knows what kind of "unofficial histories" future generations will fabricate?

On the other hand, it's nothing more than the fox mourning the death of the rabbit.

The Grand Chancellor was a successful reformer.

After six years of getting along, Han Jiang not only admired him, but was at least completely convinced of his abilities.

If people like this were all to be punished, they would hardly have a good end.
"Ugh!"

Han Jiang sighed deeply.

"It's going to rain, and my mother wants to get married."

"Justice resides in the hearts of the people!"

The study of the Duke of Qi's residence.

Young Master Qi Heng held a pen in his hand, occasionally appearing deep in thought.

Judging from his appearance, he was extremely serious, as if he were writing a letter of remonstrance.

"Officer."

A soft cry.

Qi Heng was startled and raised his head.

But then his wife, Shen, stepped in, carrying a bowl of steaming hot Qibao Lei Cha (a type of tea).

"My lord," Madam Shen approached and said softly, "The affairs of state are numerous and complicated, which inevitably takes a toll on your mind."

"I have brewed Seven Treasures Lei Cha, which has nourishing effects. My lord, please rest for a while to relieve your fatigue, soothe your throat, and replenish your energy before continuing your official duties."

Her soft-spoken manner exudes the elegance of a refined, scholarly young lady.

The beautiful woman and the sweet rice porridge would make anyone's heart flutter.

Unfortunately, this is Qi Heng!
But Qi Heng looked absent-minded, clearly somewhat bored.

"Ugh!"

With a soft sigh, Qi Heng shook his head, intending to refuse: "No need."

Before she could finish speaking, Shen lowered her eyebrows slightly, a faint sadness in her eyes, as if she were feeling dejected.

However, this is not surprising.

Since their marriage, Ms. Shen had noticed some unusual things about her husband.

Most of his true feelings were actually devoted to Lady Sheng Minglan, the wife of the Duke of Yue!

Such a situation is unfortunate, and anyone would feel sorrow and be at a loss.

Some women with weak wills might even end up like Madam Qin, a resentful woman.

Lady Shen, however, was resilient and still hoped to win back her husband's heart.

Since the couple had a child, Qi Heng's heart has been somewhat drawn back.

Can.
Shen lowered her head slightly and was about to walk out.

It's heartbreaking that my husband wouldn't even take a bite of the porridge I painstakingly cooked.

Qi Heng looked at him, realized what he meant, and quickly changed his mind, saying, "Alright."

With just a few words, Madam Shen was overjoyed and quickly walked over.

Qi Heng gently placed the hot porridge down, put down his pen, picked up the spoon, and symbolically scooped up a mouthful.

Shen tilted her head and glanced at the document.

"My lord, what are you writing here?"

“A letter of advice,” Qi Heng said calmly.

The eldest son claimed to be ill.

Qi Heng was upright and often spoke frankly to the emperor, which made him seem a bit blunt.

But he wasn't really stupid.

Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao inexplicably fell ill; whether there was a hidden reason behind it is quite obvious.

In fact, nine times out of ten, it was done by officials.

This is precisely why this matter is destined to have a significant impact.

If the emperor and his prime minister were to actually fight, the impact would be far-reaching and difficult to predict.

The political situation, reforms, personnel, governance, and public sentiment—every aspect will inevitably be affected.

This kind of pure internal strife is really undesirable.

Therefore, Qi Heng decided to submit a memorial to offer some advice.

"Ugh!"

With a sigh, Qi Heng shook his head repeatedly.

Your Majesty and the Grand Chancellor, please don't start fighting!

But if they really start fighting, whose side should you take?
Kunning Palace, side hall.

With the curtain as the boundary, Empress Xiang and the Emperor's brother-in-law Xiang Zongliang met.

"Is the eldest son claiming to be ill?"

Hearing her brother's report, Xiang was startled.

"Yes."

Xiang Zongliang responded, glanced around, and whispered, "It is said that there is something official about this."

"Little sister, how about it?"

Xiang was startled and immediately glared at him.

As siblings for many years, she naturally knew what her brother was thinking.

The Grand Chancellor is claiming illness and refusing to leave his post, which suggests he may be on the verge of collapse.

Even if they don't "fall from power," there will definitely be a power struggle between the emperor and his ministers.

Unfortunately, the young prince and the eldest son spent a long time together, a fact known to all.

Thus, it means that he has already been tainted by the Grand Master's influence.

The best course of action now is simply to take advantage of the fact that the Grand Chancellor has not yet truly "fallen from power," or that the struggle between the emperor and the prime minister has not yet fully begun, to distance themselves from the situation and prove their "innocence."

"No!" Xiang exclaimed.

"How can you be so short-sighted, elder brother?"

"When the Grand Chancellor is in power, he sends Shen'er to curry favor; when he shows signs of losing power, he avoids him altogether. Such sycophancy and opportunism are hardly the behavior of a prince."

Xiang said coldly, "Besides, flowing water doesn't compete for the lead, but for its endless flow. My brother should understand this principle!"

Empress Xiang had no intention of "untying up" the eldest son.

Firstly, the Grand Chancellor may not necessarily have lost power.

Right now, everything is just beginning, and who knows how things will develop?
Secondly, the eldest son is still young.

Even if the Grand Chancellor does lose power temporarily, it will only be temporary.

Grand Chancellor Jiang Zhao is only thirty-five years old!

With the Grand Chancellor's abilities, he really won't have a single chance to be reinstated in the next twenty or thirty years.

impossible?

Thirdly, currying favor with the powerful is extremely disheartening.

The young prince, only five years old, was already currying favor with the powerful and taking advantage of others' misfortunes.

In the future, whenever the struggle for the throne is involved, who will dare to side with the young prince?

Fourthly, the eldest son possesses extraordinary skills.

Let alone the fact that the Grand Master will most likely have a chance to be reinstated, even if the Grand Master doesn't have a chance to be reinstated, so what?

With the Grand Chancellor's abilities, if he were to be involved in the struggle for the throne in the future, even if he were to serve as an advisor to the Crown Prince, it would be enough to help Shen'er stand out.

A 32-year-old Grand Secretary of the Cabinet, a 33-year-old Grand Chancellor, a figure who pushed for the unification of the country—his abilities are no joke!
Fifthly, the Grand Chancellor also has disciples and former officials!
The Grand Chancellor's political acumen is no joke.

If Huang Wei could gain the support of the Grand Chancellor's former students and officials, he wouldn't be too far off, if not absolutely certain.

Under these circumstances, only a fool would "untie" it!

Offering help in times of need, don't you understand?
The emperor's brother-in-law, Xiang Zongliang, quickly echoed with a smile.

He certainly doesn't have any real skills.

Otherwise, he would have passed the imperial examination and become an official long ago. Why would he need to wait for his sister's favor?

Xiang shook his head impatiently, waved his hand, and said gently:

"Someone, take some medicinal herbs and jewelry to the Jiang residence as a token of our condolences."

"Yes!"

For a time, people from all walks of life, both civil and military officials, reacted differently.

(End of this chapter)