I'll steal Gao Qiu's life and lead the Song Dynasty to prosperity.

Chapter 100 The Official

The successor has been chosen.

Empress Dowager Xiang quickly summoned the main officials of the Ministry of Personnel, the Privy Council, and the Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices to hold a joint meeting in a side hall of the Chuigong Hall.

The temple name and posthumous title of the deceased emperor must be determined as soon as possible in order to establish the foundation of the country and rectify his status.

The atmosphere inside the hall was solemn.

Behind the gauze curtain, Empress Dowager Xiang sat upright like a bell.

Outside the curtain, led by Zhang Dun and Zeng Bu, high-ranking officials such as Cai Jing, Xu Jiang, and Huang Lü, as well as ritual officials such as the Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices, all held their breath and focused intently.

"The late emperor died young, but since he took the throne, he has worked diligently day and night to govern the country."

As the Privy Councilor, Zeng Bu set the tone first, his voice heavy with sorrow.

"Since the Shaosheng era, the laws and regulations of the Xining era have been restored, which is called 'succession'," thus inheriting the legacy of Emperor Shenzong; during the Yuanfu era, decisive decisions were made to pacify Qinghai and expand the territory of the Hehuang region, demonstrating the prestige of our Great Song Dynasty. Such civil and military achievements deserve a final assessment."

Zhang Dun stood to one side, his face ashen, without uttering a word.

He knew that at this moment, any debate about the posthumous title of the deceased emperor was meaningless; what was more important was how to face the incoming new emperor.

He lost, utterly and completely.

At this moment, only silence remained, maintaining the last vestiges of dignity.

Cai Jing stepped forward to add to the discussion, his words earnest and sincere.

"The late Emperor was intelligent by nature, diligent in governing and loving towards the people, and was also filial, fraternal and benevolent, making him a model for the world. His temple name and posthumous title should fully reflect his merits."

Based on the rites and the opinions of the ministers, the Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices finally drafted the following:

His temple name, "Zhezong," was chosen to signify "knowing people is wisdom, and being able to appoint people to official positions," highlighting his clear judgment.

His posthumous title, "Emperor Qinwen Ruiwu Zhaoxiao," encapsulates Zhao Xu's life of reverence for Heaven and ancestors, wisdom in civil administration, brilliance in military strategy, and filial piety and benevolence.

With the Empress Dowager's tacit approval, Zeng Bu's leadership, and the majority of court officials' seconding, it was quickly passed.

With the overall situation settled, the next step was the most symbolic ceremony—the enthronement of the new monarch.

The news spread like wildfire and quickly reached the Prince Duan's residence.

When the palace eunuchs quietly informed the Prince's residence of the arrangements, the entire residence instantly became a flurry of activity.

-

Liang Shicheng, Gao and others were like tightly wound springs, directing their servants to sweep the inside and outside of the Prince's mansion spotless, yet they dared not overstep the bounds in the slightest.

Inside the study in the rear hall, the doors and windows were tightly closed.

Emperor Huizong sat alone in the chair, his hands gripping the armrests tightly, his knuckles turning white.

His face was flushed an unnatural red, his breathing was slightly rapid, and his eyes were filled with a mixture of immense excitement and indescribable tension.

He's actually going to become emperor?

That supreme position, that core of power that holds the power of life and death over the world, is it really going to belong to him?

Just a few months ago, he was merely a leisurely prince who enjoyed calligraphy, painting, and football, and occasionally worried about money; now, however, he is about to rise to the top in one fell swoop.

"Defu—Defu!"

As if suddenly remembering something, Zhao Ji abruptly stood up, paced rapidly in the study, then stopped and called out softly to the empty room.

Almost as soon as he finished speaking, the side door of the study was gently pushed open, Zhao Mingcheng slipped in, and quickly closed the door behind him.

Clearly, Zhao Mingcheng had been waiting nearby.

"Defu!" As if he had grasped the backbone, Zhao Ji rushed forward and grabbed Zhao Mingcheng's arm with considerable force.

"Have you heard? People from the palace are really coming! Uncle Prince Pu and Prime Minister Zeng are coming to the mansion to make an announcement!"

What should I do? What should I say? What should I do? I'm so panicked right now!

Emperor Huizong of Song was completely devoid of his usual carefree demeanor, resembling a young man facing a major exam and feeling utterly helpless.

Zhao Mingcheng let him hold him, looking at him calmly and firmly, his voice steady.

He solemnly uttered two words.

"Your Majesty."

Upon hearing the word "Your Majesty," Zhao Ji trembled, loosened his grip on Zhao Mingcheng's arm, and a look of bewilderment flashed in his eyes.

Zhao Mingcheng continued.

"Your Majesty, you need not think about anything else. Just remember that you are the rightful heir to the throne, in accordance with the will of Heaven and the people. The Empress Dowager's decree, the joint deliberation of the prime ministers, and the popular will have made you the emperor. At this moment, you are the Son of Heaven of the Great Song Dynasty."

"When the Prince of Pu and Prime Minister Zeng announce the imperial edict later, according to etiquette, you must decline three times and refuse three times to show your humility. You must be calm in your heart and steady in your demeanor. All your words and actions will be guided by the officials of etiquette. You only need to follow their instructions. Calmness is dignity; composure is demeanor."

As Zhao Ji listened to Zhao Mingcheng's clear and specific instructions, his wildly beating heart gradually calmed down. He took a deep breath and tried to straighten his back, but his voice was still a little dry.

"Three refusals and three concessions—I, I've remembered them. But Defu, I'm still afraid—afraid that I won't do a good job."

Zhao Ji was still a little confused; he had forgotten to refer to himself as "朕" (Zhen, the imperial "I").

Zhao Mingcheng patted the back of his hand, a gesture of comfort that defied etiquette but felt perfectly natural at the moment.

"Your Majesty,"

Zhao Mingcheng used this title again to reinforce the recognition of Zhao Ji's identity.

"Why did the Empress Dowager choose you? Why did Chancellor Zeng support you? It's because you are benevolent and filial, virtuous, and popular. In governing the country, you will naturally have the assistance of civil and military officials. What you need to do is learn, listen, and trust those who should be trusted. As for now, you only need to do one thing well: like a wise ruler, accept the support of your subjects."

Zhao Mingcheng's words were like a reassuring pill, gradually dispelling the fear in Zhao Ji's heart.

Looking into Zhao Mingcheng's calm and trusting eyes, Zhao Ji slowly nodded and repeated.

"Accept the adoration like a wise and benevolent ruler. I—I understand."

"Your Majesty is wise."

Zhao Mingcheng took a step back and bowed solemnly.

This action formally confirmed the change in their relationship.

Soon, the clear sound of whips cracking and orderly footsteps could be heard outside the Prince's Mansion.

Prince Pu, Zhao Zongsheng, and Privy Councilor Zeng Bu, dressed in solemn court attire and carrying the imperial staff representing the emperor's authority, arrived at the gate of Prince Duan's residence under the protection of ceremonial guards.

The main gate of the Prince's Mansion was wide open, and Zhao Ji emerged, surrounded by Zhao Mingcheng, Liang Shicheng, Gao Qiu, and a group of officials from the Prince's Mansion.

Zhao Mingcheng naturally stood half a step behind Zhao Ji, closer to Zhao Ji than Liang Shicheng.

This subtle arrangement of locations, when viewed by someone with a discerning eye, reveals its meaning quite clearly.

The imperial edict was proclaimed; the people knelt to listen and kowtowed.

Following Zhao Mingcheng's prior advice, Emperor Huizong declined the position for the first time, speaking earnestly and saying that he was of meager virtue and talent and dared not assume such a great responsibility.

The Prince of Pu and Zeng Buyi made another request.

During his second refusal, Zhao Ji mentioned the recent death of his elder brother, expressing his grief and stating that he had no desire to inherit the throne.

The envoy made three requests.

The third time, Zhao Ji knelt on the ground, tears streaming down his face, expressing his fear of failing the expectations of his ancestors and the people.

After the three invitations and three refusals were completed, Prince Zhao Zongsheng of Pu stepped forward and personally presented the imperial staff and the imperial edict. Zeng Bu also bowed deeply.

Emperor Huizong (Zhao Ji) had no choice but to accept the order, weeping as he did so.

Throughout the entire process, Zhao Mingcheng did not utter a single word, but he stood behind Zhao Ji, observing everything with a calm and steady gaze.

When Zhao Ji's movements become slightly stiff due to nervousness or grief, he would gesture with the slightest amplitude; during the intervals between the chants of the ceremonial officials, he would give Zhao Ji an encouraging look.

After the ceremony, Zhao Ji officially became the new master of the empire.

What followed was a series of elaborate and solemn ceremonies, including entering the palace, paying homage at the temple, meeting the Empress Dowager, and taking the throne before the spirit tablet.

During this process, Zhao Mingcheng's identity became extremely special and conspicuous.

Although Zhao Mingcheng does not currently hold a specific official position, Emperor Huizong of Song has given him special instructions.

"All ceremonial duties, escort duties, and internal and external communications shall be handled by Zhao Mingcheng."

The title "assistant" granted Zhao Mingcheng considerable discretionary power.

Thus, under the gaze of all the court officials, members of the imperial family, and eunuchs.

Zhao Mingcheng, dressed in the blue robe of the Imperial Academy and with the purple-gold fish-shaped pouch bestowed upon him by Emperor Zhezong of Song hanging from his waist, frequently appeared at the forefront of the ceremonial procession, at key points of the palace gate handover, and among the new emperor, the welcoming ministers, and the palace ceremonial staff.

He was the only person present today wearing the uniform of a college student.

Zhao Mingcheng walked with a steady gait and gave decisive command.

Where should additional guards be deployed? Where should the order of the ceremonial procession be adjusted? How to efficiently coordinate with the officials in charge of rites and the Inner Palace sent by the emperor? How to accurately convey the new emperor's temporary decrees to the relevant personnel?

All the complicated matters became well-organized under Zhao Mingcheng's guidance.

Even Liang Shicheng, who had long served in the court and was used to the ups and downs, consciously stepped back half a step at this moment, giving Zhao Mingcheng the core position of communication and coordination, while he himself only added details from the side.

Gao Qiu followed Zhao Mingcheng's lead without question, running errands and executing orders efficiently, always afraid of making mistakes.

This was undoubtedly a dazzling debut of a former member of the Prince's residence.

Zhao Mingcheng stood in the position closest to the core of power, declaring his presence to the entire Song Dynasty court in an indisputable and de facto manipulator's manner.

Zeng Bu, as a key minister in welcoming the emperor, participated in the entire process.

During a brief pause in the ceremonial procession, he found an opportunity to have a short conversation with Zhao Mingcheng.

Looking at the composed and capable young man before him, who showed no arrogance whatsoever, Zeng Bu's eyes were filled with satisfaction and expectation as he spoke softly.

"Mingcheng, you have done very well. At the beginning of the new dynasty, everything is in need of rebuilding and people are in high demand. You are talented and trusted by the emperor, so your future is limitless."

Remember, guard against arrogance and impetuosity, be loyal and diligent in your duties, and you may very well find a place in the Privy Council or even the Secretariat in the future.

These words already carried extremely high expectations, clearly indicating that Zeng Bu regarded Zhao Mingcheng as a potential successor to his political mantle.

Zhao Mingcheng bowed, his attitude remaining respectful.

"I will remember your teachings, Uncle, and will do my utmost to assist Your Majesty and live up to your expectations."

Zhao Mingcheng's attitude made Zeng Bu even more satisfied.

However, not everyone was happy to see this happen.

Especially after the enthronement ceremony before the spirit tablet, when the officials temporarily rested in the side hall to await the subsequent ceremonies, the atmosphere became somewhat subtle.

Many court officials, especially those close to Zhang Dun or those who instinctively disliked those who had suddenly risen to prominence, looked at Zhao Mingcheng with scrutiny, distance, and even a hint of hostility.

It's no wonder that someone so young, who has gotten so close to the center of power through a personal relationship with the emperor and a single border achievement, attracts attention.

The most direct attack came from Zhang Dun.

The prime minister, who had just suffered the most devastating blow of his political career, looked ashen, but his eyes remained sharp as an eagle's.

As Zhao Mingcheng passed by and whispered something to an official from the Ministry of Rites, Zhang Dun suddenly snorted coldly. The sound wasn't loud, but everyone around could hear it.

"Hmph, those who curry favor with the powerful and rely on others' authority, these sycophants, dare to stand in the halls of power?"

These words were extremely harsh and almost a blatant insult.

The surrounding officials fell silent instantly, all eyes turning to Zhang Dun and Zhao Mingcheng.

Zeng Bu frowned, about to speak in rebuttal.

Zhao Mingcheng had already turned around. His face showed no anger, but rather the appropriate humility befitting a junior.

He faced Zhang Dun and bowed respectfully.

"You flatter me, Lord Zhang. I am young and lack virtue, but I am fortunate to have been spared by the Emperor and trusted by the Empress Dowager, which has allowed me to serve you. It is truly a stroke of luck. You, Lord Zhang, are a pillar of the nation, a veteran of two dynasties, and have made great contributions to the country. I have always admired you. Today, seeing you in person, I feel even more your majesty."

If Mingcheng has made any mistakes, I humbly request your guidance, my lord. I would be eternally grateful.

Zhao Mingcheng's words were humble and courteous, skillfully catching Zhang Dun's biting sarcasm and transforming it into respect for the senior official.

It was as if Zhang Dun wasn't mocking him, but rather admonishing a junior who needed guidance.

Zhang Dun had already prepared himself, ready to face Zhao Mingcheng's retort or rebuttal, so that he could use the opportunity to criticize Zhao Mingcheng's arrogance.

But he did not expect Zhao Mingcheng to respond in this way.

Zhang Dun felt as if he had punched cotton, his anger and resentment finding no outlet.

He wanted to rebuke again, but couldn't find a harsher remark. Moreover, with so many eyes watching, continuing to argue would only make him seem narrow-minded and lose the demeanor of a prime minister.

"you----"

Zhang Dun's throat bobbed, but in the end he just let out a heavy snort, turned away with a flick of his sleeve, and stopped looking at Zhao Mingcheng.

Zhao Mingcheng sighed inwardly.

He understood Zhang Dun's anger and resentment, the deep concern this famous historical minister had for so-called "frivolous" monarchs, and even his contempt for people like himself who "advanced to power."

But while we understand each other, our paths have diverged.

In Zhang Dun's eyes, "flattering treacherous officials" was a necessary means for Zhao Mingcheng to achieve his goals.

Zhang Dun could not comprehend Zhao Mingcheng's vision and strategic planning that transcended his time.

Just as Zhao Mingcheng could not fully agree with Zhang Dun's overly rigid and inflexible governing style.

People with different paths cannot work together; that's all.

Zhao Mingcheng didn't linger and continued to handle the matters at hand.

As I passed by Cai Jing, Cai Jing was slightly bowing his head.

Zhao Mingcheng did not stop walking. He simply nodded slightly in greeting, just as he would to other ordinary officials, neither being impolite nor showing any particular intimacy.

After he passed by, Cai Jing slowly raised his head and looked at Zhao Mingcheng's steady back as he walked towards the new emperor Zhao Ji. A glint flashed in his eyes, and he thought to himself.

"He remained calm in the face of both honor and disgrace, and handled matters with composure. He was able to organize such a complex ceremonial procession in an orderly manner even under pressure. Zhang Dun called him a sycophant, but he probably underestimated this young man."

Cai Jing etched the name Zhao Mingcheng even deeper into his heart.

The ceremony was finally drawing to a close.

Under the auspices of Empress Dowager Xiang, the new Emperor Zhao Ji offered sacrifices to Heaven and his ancestors before the spirit tablet of the late Emperor, and officially ascended the throne.

Subsequently, the Empress Dowager lowered the curtain, and the new emperor ascended the throne to receive the congratulations of the officials.

The transfer of power in the Song Dynasty has been completed.