Неаring this, everуоnе ехchanged glаnсes.
This mаtter should nоt hаvе оссurred.
It was mеrely an issue conсеrning a fеw schоlаrs, уеt it had еsсаlаtеd direсtly to the соurt. No mаtter how onе lookеd at it, it was undignifiеd. Undеr nоrmаl сirсumstаnces, nоt оnly wоuld thеsе schоlars bе unlikеly to gаthеr togеther, but even if thеy travelеd thоusаnds of milеs to Huajing аnd аssеmbled аt thе раlасe gаtеs, theу would hаve beеn dispеrsеd bеforе thеу сould kneel, lеt alone have thеir grievancеs repоrted аll thе waу into the palace.
Everyone understood that this was deliberately orchestrated. Those capable of conveying such news here were certainly not ordinary individuals. The court officials couldn’t help but speculate about who was behind this scheme and why they had done such a thing.
While the courtiers were well-versed in the intricacies of such matters, Li Ming might not necessarily be aware. A person who had been deceived from top to bottom for decades would find it difficult to grasp such subtle details.
Seeing Li Ming frown, he seemed to treat it as a major case and immediately said, "What is going on? Go and find out clearly!"
"It has been clarified," the messenger gasped for breath. "Those scholars claim they are local tributes who passed the provincial examinations and were supposed to come to Huajing for the Spring Imperial Examination, but their spots were taken by others. That is why they came to Huajing, hoping to present this matter to the Son of Heaven. They are now kneeling outside, asking Your Majesty to send someone to meet them and give an explanation. Your Majesty, the palace gates are now tightly surrounded by commoners, all awaiting Your Majesty’s decision."
Hearing this, Li Ming fell silent.
These scholars were clever. If they entered the court, the matter would become an affair of the court, and its handling would depend on the court’s will. By kneeling outside and demanding an explanation, they ensured that the outcome would be witnessed by all the people.
Most importantly, if they entered the court, there was no guarantee that their case would be taken up—it might simply be assigned to someone for a perfunctory resolution. But by demanding that someone step forward, they could hold that person accountable for any future issues.
It was unclear who had advised them on this method, but it was indeed a clever approach.
"How many of them are there?"
After a moment of contemplation, Li Ming tapped the table as if deep in thought. The messenger, having caught his breath, replied respectfully, "Your Majesty, nearly a hundred people."
A hundred people, coming from all over the country—this case was no longer a matter involving just a few minor families.
The greatest difficulty in governance lay not in Huajing but in the local clans of these regions. Li Rong could smoothly handle cases involving high-ranking officials and powerful families in Huajing, but she was not confident about managing so many local cases.
Li Ming remained silent for a long time before finally raising his head and casting his gaze toward Li Chuan.
Li Chuan had been waiting for a long time. Sensing Li Ming’s gaze, he slowly looked up.
In name, there was no one more suitable for such a case than Crown Prince Li Chuan. However, if Li Chuan took on this case, he would either lose the support of the people or alienate the influential families.
For so many people to have their spots taken, there must have been a complete chain of corruption, stretching from the local regions to the court in Huajing. Offending so many people was inevitable, and even then, there was no guarantee that the case could be resolved properly.
If the case was mishandled, Li Ming would have grounds to punish him.
This case was like a perfectly sharpened blade, aimed directly at Li Chuan.
Li Rong couldn’t help but glance at Su Rongqing, who had been standing with his head bowed all along, seemingly detached from everything.Only at this moment did she finally confirm that Su Rongqing's true target was indeed Li Chuan.
Given this, the reason Su Rongqing had initially sought to align himself with Li Chuan became quite intriguing.
If Su Rongqing had been reborn from the very moment they first met, then he must have known that in the future, Li Chuan would be driven step by step into a corner by Li Ming, until he was ultimately deposed.
In truth, he didn't need to do anything at all. As long as he prevented Pei Wenxuan from persuading the noble families at the critical moment, Li Chuan would be doomed.
Knowing this, if his purpose in aligning with Li Chuan was to bring him down, then there was only one possibility: he intended to lie low by Li Chuan's side and deliver the final blow at the last moment.
If she and Pei Wenxuan had not been reborn, Su Rongqing's plan would indeed have been sound.
But she and Pei Wenxuan had returned, which was why Su Rongqing had reacted so strongly when she established the Supervisory Department.
Because she had disrupted Su Rongqing's plan. She now held real power, and Su Rongqing knew she would never betray Li Chuan. Thus, his strategy of quietly waiting for Li Chuan's downfall had to change.
That was why he desperately tried to prevent the establishment of the Supervisory Department and the rise of Pei Wenxuan—because he clearly understood that the power of Pei Wenxuan and Li Rong would ultimately be transferred to Li Chuan.
Li Rong's gaze rested on Su Rongqing as she quietly pondered his actions.
Meanwhile, after a brief standoff in their exchanged glances, Li Ming slowly spoke: "Chuan'er, this matter involves various prefectures and counties and concerns the selection of talents for Great Xia—the very foundation of the state. As the Crown Prince, why don't you take charge of it?"
Upon hearing this, Li Chuan remained silent. In his moment of hesitation, Shangguan Xu stepped forward and respectfully said, "Your Majesty, this matter pertains to the imperial examinations and should be handled by the officials in charge of the examinations, or by the Ministry of Justice, the Dali Temple, and other offices responsible for law enforcement. The Crown Prince, as the heir to the throne, is already burdened with numerous duties. Such a complex civil case might be beyond his capacity. I implore Your Majesty to reconsider."
As he spoke, Shangguan Xu turned to Wang Houwen, the Minister of Personnel: "Minister Wang, I heard you recently volunteered to serve as the Chief Examiner for the imperial examinations. Why not have the Ministry of Justice assist you in handling this case?"
Hearing this, Wang Houwen hurried forward and anxiously replied, "Your Majesty, this old minister is frail and weak. Although I did volunteer to serve as the Chief Examiner for the imperial examinations some time ago, I have recently felt my health failing. The position of Chief Examiner has not yet been finalized, so I hope Your Majesty will select a more suitable candidate."
Wang Houwen paused three times to catch his breath as he spoke. With his plump figure and white, fluttering beard, even Li Rong felt a sense of suffocation just listening to him.
Li Rong guessed that Li Ming probably didn't want Wang Houwen to take on this case either.
In Li Ming's mind, investigating a few cases of impersonation in the examinations wasn't of utmost importance. The state had too many major affairs—natural disasters one day, wars the next. In comparison, the futures of a few hundred individuals didn't amount to much.
But if he could destabilize Li Chuan's position as Crown Prince, that would be of great significance.
He needed to free the Li Clan from the shackles of the Shangguan Clan. From the moment Li Chuan was born, no matter how exceptional he was, he was no longer suited for this position.
Thus, Li Ming nodded slowly and said, "Minister Wang is indeed advanced in years. As for the position of Chief Examiner for the imperial examinations, I do have other considerations in mind."
As he spoke, Li Ming raised his eyes to scan the assembled officials: "I wonder which of you, esteemed ministers, would be willing to step forward and accept the petitions of these scholars?"
As Li Ming posed this question, everyone already knew the answer in their hearts.In such a situation, no one would willingly take on this hot potato.
With no one stepping forward, the case would ultimately be forced into the Crown Prince's hands by Li Ming.
Li Rong gently tapped her small fan, glancing at Su Rongqing not far away. She saw Su Rongqing turn his head, his still, lifeless eyes pausing briefly on her face before shifting to Pei Wenxuan.
He had already made his move; now it was up to Pei Wenxuan to respond.
If Li Chuan took on this case, no matter how he handled it, he would lose.
Either he would lose the support of the noble families, or he would lose the hearts of the common people.
Li Rong couldn't help but look at Pei Wenxuan as well. She wondered, how would Pei Wenxuan respond?
He had long been aware of Su Rongqing's actions; he shouldn't be completely unprepared.
Pei Wenxuan noticed the gazes of both. He leisurely raised his eyes, his smiling gaze meeting Su Rongqing's scrutinizing one. After a moment, he suddenly stepped forward, knelt, and prostrated himself on the ground, raising his voice: "Your Majesty, I am willing to take on this case!"
Li Rong instantly tightened her grip on her fan, her heart racing. On the high throne, Li Ming furrowed his brows, his eyes fixed intently on Pei Wenxuan kneeling below.
Li Ming had originally intended to deal with Li Chuan, yet Pei Wenxuan had stepped forward to shield him?
That dog Pei Wenxuan must have gone mad!
Not only Li Rong thought so, but everyone in the court shared the same sentiment.
Li Ming restrained his impatience and tried to dissuade Pei Wenxuan: "Minister Pei, you have only just assumed the position of Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel. For a case of this magnitude, I fear your experience is insufficient."
"Your Majesty," Pei Wenxuan remained kneeling, "though my experience may be lacking, I make up for it with dedication. Since no senior official in the court is willing to undertake this case, why not entrust it to me? I am not from a noble family; I entered the civil service through the imperial examinations. The examinations hold extraordinary significance for me. I deeply empathize with the grievances of students whose places were taken unjustly. Therefore, I beseech Your Majesty to entrust the entire matter of the imperial examinations to me. I will surely deliver justice to the many scholars. I humbly request Your Majesty's approval."
"You are still too young," Li Ming grew somewhat impatient upon hearing this, "and your experience is shallow. Even with dedication, I fear you may not handle it well."
"Your Majesty speaks wisely."
Su Rongqing finally spoke up, respectfully suggesting: "Why not have Minister Pei assist the Crown Prince in investigating the case, sharing some of the burden?" Su Rongqing turned to look at Pei Wenxuan as if consulting him, "What does Minister Pei think?"
"Your Majesty," Pei Wenxuan, having heard Li Ming's words, showed no sign of backing down, "the Crown Prince is occupied with numerous affairs, and the actual work would likely fall to his subordinates. If Your Majesty entrusts this matter to me, I will devote myself wholeheartedly to it."
"Minister Pei speaks reasonably."
Those aligned with Li Chuan, seeing someone willingly shoulder the burden, quickly chimed in: "Your Majesty, in truth, this matter is not of great importance. The imperial examinations are, after all, just a test. Compared to disasters across the land or conflicts at the borders, it is relatively minor. Minister Pei holds the rank of fourth-grade Vice Minister, which is more than sufficient to handle this case. Your Majesty might as well entrust it to Minister Pei and let him take full responsibility."
"That is not correct," Su Rongqing's supporters immediately stepped forward, "the imperial examinations are the system for selecting officials, the foundation of the state. Now that there are those engaging in fraud and causing chaos, affecting the entire nation, if the Crown Prince does not take charge, how can the people's hearts be appeased?"
"That statement is inappropriate..."
Li Ming's faction, Su Rongqing's faction, and the Crown Prince's faction clashed, and the court erupted into a clamorous debate.Li Rong glanced at Pei Wenxuan kneeling on the ground. Pei Wenxuan looked up and smiled at her. Seeing this expression, Li Rong knew he had a plan in mind.
Su Rongqing frowned, standing at a distance with his head lowered in thought.
As both sides argued without resolution and were on the verge of pushing and shoving, a woman’s clear voice rang out.
“Your Majesty,” Consort Rou led Prince Su as she stepped through the doorway, a smile on her face. “Why not hand this case over to Cheng’er?”
Upon hearing this, the hall fell silent. Everyone looked at Consort Rou in surprise, except for Li Rong, who maintained her smile throughout.
Consort Rou led Prince Su forward and nodded toward Li Rong with a smile.
Li Rong bowed in greeting, and Consort Rou knelt down with Prince Su.
“Your Majesty, I have heard that Princess Pingle recommended Cheng’er to be the head of the Supervisory Department. Although Cheng’er is young, he is willing to share Your Majesty’s burdens. Since the court officials cannot reach a consensus on the imperial examination matter, why not entrust it to Cheng’er? I will lead him to thoroughly investigate and meet with those scholars to understand their demands.”
Li Ming listened to Consort Rou’s words and paused for a moment.
Seeing that Consort Rou was willing to shoulder this heavy responsibility, Shangguan Xu quickly gave a meaningful glance to his subordinates. One official immediately stepped forward and exclaimed, “Consort Rou is truly noble! Prince Su, as a royal prince, is most suitable to take charge of the Supervisory Department and handle this case.”
As soon as this person spoke, other officials followed suit. Although the matter had not yet been decided, they all began praising Consort Rou and Prince Su.
Consort Rou glanced at Li Rong with a smile. Seeing her triumphant gaze, Li Rong snorted coldly and turned her head away.
After hesitating for a moment, Li Ming finally nodded. “Since Cheng’er wishes to take on this case, let him handle it. However, Pei Wenxuan,” Li Ming looked up at Pei Wenxuan, “since you wish to handle this matter, I appoint you as the Chief Examiner for the imperial examination. You shall assist Prince Su and Consort Rou in handling this case together with Vice Minister Su of the Ministry of Justice.”
“Your humble servant accepts the decree.”
Pei Wenxuan respectfully kowtowed. Consort Rou helped Prince Su to his feet. “Then I shall take Cheng’er to the palace gates to see what is happening.”
“Your Majesty,” Li Rong smiled, “I would also like to join in and see the excitement.”
“Go ahead,” Li Ming waved his hand. “Go if you wish, and bear witness for Prince Su as well.”
Consort Rou led Li Cheng in a bow, then turned and left. Li Rong followed, and gradually, ministers began to trail after them as they walked out.
Li Rong walked side by side with Consort Rou through the palace grounds. Li Rong said slowly, “Consort Rou has had quite good luck lately. I wonder which expert has been guiding you?”
Upon hearing Li Rong’s words, Consort Rou knew she had guessed Cui Yulang’s involvement, but Li Rong’s question revealed she did not know who was behind her.
Consort Rou smiled and said only, “I’m afraid I don’t quite understand what Your Highness is saying.”
Hearing this, Li Rong sneered and said no more. Consort Rou nodded gracefully. “I must take Cheng’er to attend to matters. Your Highness may proceed at your leisure—this matter has little to do with you.”
“You…” Li Rong seemed about to curse, but Consort Rou laughed aloud and led Li Cheng away quickly.
After Consort Rou had walked some distance away, Pei Wenxuan slowly approached Li Rong, appearing to walk alongside her by chance.
“Why provoke her for no reason?”
Pei Wenxuan’s lips moved slightly as he whispered the question. Li Rong smiled. “She isn’t arrogant enough yet. I’m giving her a bit more psychological comfort. But I should ask you—what are you doing?”Li Rong’s expression was cold. “If Consort Rou doesn’t come, what do you mean to do? Confirm before His Majesty that you are the one behind this?”
“You brought Consort Rou here?” Pei Wenxuan tucked his hands into his sleeves, raising an eyebrow as he looked at her.
“Knowing Su Rongqing was scheming,” Li Rong’s voice was calm, “how could I not have made any preparations? I had Cui Yulang enter the palace early to persuade Consort Rou—this is an excellent opportunity to earn merit. A bunch of minor local clans, the case is easy to handle. It wins over hearts, gains His Majesty’s favor, and establishes authority in the Supervisory Department. Three birds with one stone.”
Li Rong smiled faintly. “Even I was tempted.”
“Your Highness is brilliant.”
Pei Wenxuan tilted his head and chuckled, but Li Rong didn’t want to hear his praise. She and Pei Wenxuan were approaching the palace gates, watching them slowly open.
“Pei Wenxuan, I understand what Su Rongqing intends to do, but I still don’t understand what you’re planning.”
Outside the palace gates, the scene of scholars kneeling on the ground unfolded like a scroll. Consort Rou stood at the entrance holding Li Cheng’s hand, putting on a righteous and solemn demeanor. After saying some words about how she would surely uphold justice for them, those kneeling on the ground were moved to tears.
“Bring all your grievances to Prince Su. He will surely see justice done for you.”
Consort Rou spoke with great emotion, and the person kneeling at the front cried out excitedly, “Your Highness, today we have three requests.”
“First, we hope the court will thoroughly investigate the case of our examination quotas being taken, and restore justice to us!”
“That is only natural,” Consort Rou responded. “Prince Su and I are here precisely for this matter.”
“Second,” the person continued without being interrupted by Consort Rou, “we humbly request that this year’s imperial examination include a palace examination, personally supervised by His Majesty, to prevent anyone from abusing their power and engaging in fraud.”
Hearing this, Consort Rou frowned. She hadn’t expected these scholars to have so many demands.
The officials who had followed them also grew uneasy. Li Rong quietly watched the scholars as the person at the front raised a scroll in his hand and declared with resounding force, “Third, we humbly request the court to make the imperial examination the sole system for selecting officials, abolishing the channel for aristocratic families to recommend candidates for official positions, in pursuit of fairness!”
As soon as these words were spoken, an uproar swept through the crowd. Consort Rou’s face instantly turned deathly pale.
Su Rongqing cast a cold glance at Pei Wenxuan, while Li Rong tapped her small fan against her palm.
After a long while, she slowly smiled and looked at Pei Wenxuan, who was silently observing the scene.
“Good,” she praised softly. “Very good.”
“Pei Wenxuan,” the wind surged from within the palace, whipping at the hems of Li Rong and Pei Wenxuan’s robes. She smiled as she looked at the calm-faced young man before her, sincerely admiring, “You truly are remarkable.”
OpenNovel