Shuhan

The next morning, the dawn broke in the sky, and a few thin clouds were inlaid on the light blue sky, floating like a veil.

There was peace and tranquility within the palace, with only the occasional bird song breaking the silence.

The flowers in the imperial garden look more beautiful under the nourishment of the morning dew. The breeze brings bursts of fragrance, which seems to add a bit of vitality and vigor to this new day.

Fei Yi, dressed in gorgeous court robes, walked steadily through the palace corridor, holding a heavy list tightly in his hand.

This list was compiled jointly by the Prime Minister's Office and the Shangshu Ling, and carries the expectations and glory of countless soldiers and heroes.

His face was serious and solemn, his eyes revealed awe for the list, and every step he took was extremely firm, as if every step was stepping on the long river of history.

When he arrived in front of Liu Chan's bedroom, Fei Yi stopped, took a deep breath, adjusted his posture, and then gently pushed open the door.

Inside the hall, Liu Chan was sitting on the dragon throne, wearing a golden dragon robe and a pearl crown on his head, looking majestic and noble.

His face looked a little young, but his brows revealed the calmness and wisdom of an emperor.

At this time, he was reviewing the memorials on the table with his head down, his brows slightly furrowed, and he seemed to be immersed in thinking about government affairs.

Fei Yi walked forward slowly, bowed, and said respectfully: "Your Majesty, I, Fei Yi, am here on the orders of the Prime Minister's Office and the Minister of Chancellery to present the list of those who have been rewarded for their meritorious service."

As he spoke, he presented the list with both hands, his movements respectful and cautious.

Upon hearing this, Liu Chan raised his head, his eyes fell on the list in Fei Yi's hand, and a hint of expectation flashed in his eyes.

He took the list, unfolded it gently with both hands, and examined it carefully.

The handwriting on the list is neat and powerful, and every stroke reveals the author's care and caution.

The names of the five pillars of the country are clearly visible: Zhang Fei, Zhuge Liang, Fa Zheng, Zhao Yun, and Guan Xing.

Zhang Fei was an extremely brave general who had fought in hundreds of battles and made outstanding contributions.

His name is undoubtedly well-deserved to appear here.

Liu Chan couldn't help but think of Zhang Fei's burly figure, thick eyebrows and big eyes, as well as his heroic figure wielding the Zhangba Snake Spear and being invincible on the battlefield.

of course.

Now Zhang Fei is old and no longer as brave as he used to be.

Zhuge Liang, his name shines like a bright star in the Han sky.

Liu Chan thought of Zhuge Liang's elegant image with a feather fan and a green turban, as well as his wisdom and strategy in planning and winning battles thousands of miles away.

For Zhuge Liang, this reward was not only a recognition of his past achievements, but also an expectation that he would continue to serve the Han Dynasty in the future.

Zhao Yun, the ever-victorious general, his bravery and loyalty have long been deeply rooted in the hearts of the people.

Liu Chan seemed to see Zhao Yun galloping on the battlefield again, holding a spear and wearing silver armor, breaking through the enemy's formation like a flash of lightning, invincible.

There is no need to say much about Fa Zheng's qualifications.

However, when Liu Chan's eyes fell on Guan Xing's name, he couldn't help but frowned slightly.

Guan Xing represents the deceased Guan Yu, Guan Ping, and the Military Academy.

Guan Yu's bravery and loyalty, and Guan Ping's youth and potential were once the pride of the Han Dynasty.

The Military Academy trained many outstanding generals and soldiers.

Listing Guan Xing as one of the four pillars of the country is undoubtedly a respect and remembrance for Guan Yu's lineage, but it has also caused a lot of controversy.

Liu Chan knew this very well, but he had his own considerations in his heart.

Then, Liu Chan's gaze moved downwards and saw the names of the Six Dukes: Fei Yi, Dong Yun, Jiang Wan, Lu Xun, Yu Jin, and Wei Yan.

Their names each represent different places and forces.

Fei Yi, Dong Yun, Jiang Wan and others were role models of civil officials of the Han Dynasty. They were talented and loyal, and made great contributions to the prosperity and stability of the Han Dynasty.

Liu Chan looked at their names and his heart was filled with gratitude and respect.

Lu Xun, this name reminded Liu Chan of the old ministers of Eastern Wu.

Although he was not an old man of the Han Dynasty, his prestige and achievements in the Eastern Wu could not be ignored.

Listing Lu Xun as one of the Six Dukes was both a recognition of his personal abilities and a sign of the Han Dynasty's acceptance of the old ministers of the Eastern Wu.

Yu Jin, a former minister of the Wei State, his name seems a bit abrupt to appear here.

But Liu Chan knew that after surrendering to the Han Dynasty, Yu Jin had always been loyal and made important contributions to the Han Dynasty's border defense.

Listing him as one of the six dukes was also a recognition of his loyalty and achievements.

Wei Yan, he is the representative of the Jingzhou faction.

As one of the important bases of the Han Dynasty, Jingzhou holds a vital position.

Wei Yan had extremely high prestige and influence in Jingzhou. His joining undoubtedly injected new vitality into the stability and development of the Han Dynasty.

As for the list of twenty county marquises, twenty township marquises, and twenty pavilion marquises, Liu Chan also looked at them carefully one by one.

The names of Liao Hua, Wang Ping, A Huinan and others are on the list.

Liao Hua, the battle-hardened general, has long been known for his bravery and loyalty.

Wang Ping, although he was born in a humble family, gradually emerged in the Han army with his own efforts and talents.

Ahuinan, a general from the Southern Barbarians, brought new tactics and strategies to the Han army.

Liu Chan looked at the list of rewards and felt filled with satisfaction and relief.

He knew that this list was not only a reward and recognition for the heroes, but also an expectation and hope for the future of the Han Dynasty.

However, as a wise emperor, he also knew that the list was not perfect.

Liu Chan gently put down the list, looked up at Fei Yi, and slowly said: "Fei Qing, this list is very well compiled. I am very satisfied. However..."

There was a hint of hesitation and thought in his words.

"Some specific changes need to be made. I think some details need to be considered."

When Fei Yi heard this, he was slightly shocked.

He originally thought that the list had been carefully compiled and reviewed and there shouldn't be any major problems.

But after hearing Liu Chan's words, he immediately realized his negligence.

He quickly bowed and said, "Your Majesty is wise. We will consider it carefully and make necessary changes to the list."

Liu Chan nodded, his eyes revealing firmness and decisiveness.

He knew that as an emperor, he must always keep a clear head and keen insight.

Although this list is important, we cannot ignore the details and hidden dangers contained therein.

He said in a deep voice: "I think we should ask Prime Minister Zhuge Liang to come and discuss this with us. He is resourceful and will surely be able to provide us with better advice."

When Fei Yi heard this, he was startled.

He knew Zhuge Liang's status and influence in the Han Dynasty, and also understood Liu Chan's trust and reliance on Zhuge Liang.

He quickly responded, "Your Majesty is right. I will go and ask the Prime Minister to come over."

Having said that, he turned and left the bedroom, hurried towards the Prime Minister's Mansion.

Soon, Zhuge Liang arrived at Liu Chan's bedroom.

He was dressed in simple and elegant Confucian clothes, holding a feather fan, and walked into the hall calmly.

His face looked a little weathered, but his eyes revealed endless wisdom and depth.

He bowed to Liu Chan and said respectfully, "Your Majesty has summoned me here. What is the important matter to discuss?"

Liu Chan was delighted to see Zhuge Liang coming. He quickly handed the list to Zhuge Liang and said, "Prime Minister, this is a list of meritorious awards compiled by the Prime Minister's Office and the Shangshu Ling. I have read it and I am generally satisfied with it. However, there are still some details that need to be considered. Prime Minister is a pillar of our Han Dynasty and will definitely provide me with better suggestions."

Zhuge Liang took the list and looked at it carefully.

His eyes sparkled with wisdom, as if he had memorized every name on the list in an instant. He gently stroked his beard, pondered for a moment, and slowly said, "Your Majesty is right. Although this list is well compiled, there are indeed some details that need to be revised. What do you think, Your Majesty? For example..."

Inside the palace, the flickering candlelight illuminated Liu Chan's slightly immature yet already majestic face.

He sat on the dragon throne, wearing a golden dragon robe embroidered with a five-clawed golden dragon, demonstrating the royal dignity and majesty.

Liu Chan took a sip of the tea on the table, but his eyes were cast towards Zhuge Liang beside him, with a barely perceptible cunning gleam in his eyes.

"For example, the reward given to Zhong Hui." Liu Chan spoke slowly. Although his voice was light, it carried an unquestionable determination.

"Then he will be promoted from county marquis to pavilion marquis."

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Liang paused for a moment, frowned slightly, and a hint of doubt flashed in his eyes.

He was dressed in a plain robe with fluttering sleeves, like an immortal descending to earth. Although his face looked a little old, his eyes were still as sharp as an eagle's.

"Why?" Zhuge Liang put down his feather fan and asked softly, with a hint of confusion and exploration in his tone.

Liu Chan smiled gently, and that smile contained both the playfulness of a teenager and the calmness of a king.

He stood up, slowly walked to Zhuge Liang's side, and whispered: "Don't you know the recent movements of the noble family, Prime Minister?"

Zhuge Liang's expression was slightly stern when he heard this. He certainly knew the movements of the aristocratic families. Those aristocratic families who secretly colluded and plotted ill have long been a thorn in his heart.

However, he did not expect Liu Chan to mention this matter so directly, and he couldn't help feeling a little surprised.

"I have indeed heard something." Zhuge Liang pondered for a moment, raised his eyes and looked at Liu Chan, with a hint of determination in his eyes.

"How will Your Majesty deal with them?"

Liu Chan smiled and patted Zhuge Liang on the shoulder. His smile was full of confidence and determination. "I will punish them severely. I will cut down the aristocratic families all at once! Let them know that the world of the Han Dynasty belongs to me, not theirs!"

Zhuge Liang was shocked when he heard this.

He was well aware of the boldness and decisiveness of Liu Chan's move, and he also understood that this would be a thrilling power struggle.

However, he knew better that as prime minister, he had to stand on Liu Chan's side and face the storm together.

"The reward for cutting off Zhong Hui is to allow him to rebel against me with a legitimate reason!"

As he spoke, Liu Chan looked at Zhuge Liang and said, "You can first leak out some information about the specific content of the reward."

Zhuge Liang immediately accepted the order.

Soon, the news of the reward spread.

There was a lot of discussion in the palace and in the court.

Those who were awarded the positions of their dreams were extremely happy. They had smiles on their faces and excitement gleaming in their eyes, as if they had already seen their future glory and wealth.

However, those who were awarded positions that they were not satisfied with could not help but feel some resentment.

They either had gloomy faces or gnashed their teeth, their hearts filled with resentment and anger.

Zhong Hui was one of them.

He originally thought that he would at least be granted the title of County Marquis for his contribution in destroying Wei, but he did not expect that in the end he only got the title of Ting Marquis.

At this moment, he was discussing with Chen Tai in a secret room about disrupting the imperial examination.

Inside the secret room, the candlelight was dim, and there was only a shabby wooden table and a few chairs.

There were several maps hanging on the wall, marking the troop deployments and strategic locations in various places.

Zhong Hui was wearing a black robe, his face was stern, and there was a sinister light flashing in his eyes.

He clenched his fists, veins bulging on his fists, showing his inner anger and unwillingness.

Chen Tai sat aside, his face solemn, a hint of worry flashing in his eyes.

He was well aware of Zhong Hui's ambitions and methods, and also understood how much of a blow this incident would be to Zhong Hui.

"Brother Zhong Hui, this matter..." Chen Tai hesitated, not knowing how to comfort Zhong Hui.

Zhong Hui snorted coldly and interrupted Chen Tai: "Han has bullied me too much! Without me, Han would have to destroy Wei and countless people would have died. Now it seems that they must rebel against Han!"

After saying this, Zhong Hui suddenly stood up and paced back and forth in the secret room.

His steps were heavy and powerful, and every step seemed to be stepping on Chen Tai's heart.

Chen Tai looked at Zhong Hui's angry back and couldn't help feeling a little scared.

He knew that once Zhong Hui decided to rebel against the Han Dynasty, it would be a bloody storm.

He just wanted to let the Han emperor know the strength of the aristocratic family.

It is not anti-Han.

Zhong Hui stopped and turned to look at Chen Tai, with a look of determination in his eyes: "Brother Chen Tai, do you know why I want to disrupt the imperial examination?"

Chen Tai shook his head, indicating that he didn't know.

Zhong Hui sneered and continued, "The imperial examination is the foundation of the country's selection of talents, but the aristocratic families manipulate the imperial examination through power and money, making it impossible for those who are talented but have no background to succeed. I, Zhong Hui, want to break this injustice and allow truly talented people to stand out!"

Chen Tai couldn't help but feel moved when he heard this.

He knew Zhong Hui's ambitions and aspirations very well, and understood why he was so angry and unwilling.

However, he knew better that once Zhong Hui embarked on the path of opposing the Han Dynasty, there would be no turning back.

"Brother Zhong Hui, this matter still needs to be considered carefully," Chen Tai said after a moment's hesitation. "Your Majesty may have his own intentions in doing this. We might as well wait and see what happens."

Hearing this, Zhong Hui snorted coldly: "Intention? What intention could Liu Chan have? He just wants to weaken the power of the aristocratic families and consolidate his throne! I, Zhong Hui, have made great contributions to his Han country, but he treats me like this. How can I swallow this breath!"

After saying this, Zhong Hui suddenly waved his sleeves, turned around and walked out of the secret room.

His back looked lonely and determined, as if he had made up his mind to embark on the path of anti-Han.

"We know the emperor's whereabouts, but...

There was a dangerous light in Zhong Hui's eyes.

At this moment in the palace, Liu Chan and Zhuge Liang were plotting how to deal with the counterattack of the aristocratic families.

They sat in the imperial study, the desk piled with memorials and maps.

Liu Chan had a solemn expression, with a determined light flashing in his eyes; Zhuge Liang held a feather fan in his hand, with a calm face and a hint of wisdom in his eyes.

"Prime Minister, the aristocratic families will definitely counterattack this time." Liu Chan said in a deep voice: "How should we respond?"

Zhuge Liang smiled slightly and waved his feather fan gently: "Your Majesty, rest assured, I have been prepared. Although the aristocratic families are strong, they are not monolithic. We only need to sow discord among them and let them kill each other."

When Liu Chan heard this, a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes: "Oh? What's the Prime Minister's plan?"

Zhuge Liang moved closer to Liu Chan and whispered something to him.

After hearing this, Liu Chan was overjoyed and clapped his hands in admiration: "Brilliant! Brilliant! Prime Minister, this plan is truly ingenious!"

However, what they didn't know was that Zhong Hui had already walked out of the secret room and was heading towards his mansion.

His heart was filled with anger and resentment, as well as confusion and uncertainty about the future.

He didn't know where to go, nor did he know if he could withstand the baptism of this storm.

After Zhong Hui returned to his mansion, he sat alone in the study.

The candlelight flickered in the study, illuminating his stern face.

He held a long sword tightly in his hand, and there was a gleam of determination in his eyes.

He knew that he had embarked on the path of opposing the aristocratic family and there was no turning back.

He also knew that this would be a thrilling power struggle and he had to give it his all.

Wealth and honor are always gained by stepping on the corpses of others. (End of this chapter)