Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

Everyone was stunned when they heard Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang's (Bumbutai) analysis. Her words were simple and direct, but every word was a pearl, which made people convinced. Although Prince Rui Dorgon had many wives and concubines, he only had one daughter. It was so difficult to have children. Looking at Dorgon, he was already 32 years old. If he had no more children, even if he wanted to take the throne, there would be no one to inherit it. Isn't it sad? Thinking of this, everyone nodded in agreement and admired Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang's foresight.

"But..." Sony frowned, his worry evident in his expression, "Prince Rui failed in his expedition to the pass this time, and the White Banner suffered heavy losses. How should this matter be handled?"

"Of course it's okay for Prince Baorui, but how should we appease the families of those bannermen who died on the battlefield? Not only the Plain White Banner, but also Ajige of the Bordered White Banner and Ebilun of the Bordered Yellow Banner also died inside the Great Wall, and their bodies have not been returned. This matter must be explained!" As soon as Sony said this, there was silence in the Phoenix Tower.

After a while, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang spoke slowly: "Aunt, everyone, I have a plan in mind. Although Dorgon's crimes are serious, it will be difficult to convince the people if he is not punished. We can deprive him of his position as the leader of the Plain White Banner and remove his title of regent, but the title of Prince Rui must be retained."

Empress Zhezhe was surprised when she heard this: "Why do you say that? The position of Banner Lord and Regent has been lost, so what's the point of keeping the title of Prince Rui?"

Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang shook her head gently: "The title of Prince Rui was bestowed by the late emperor. My Qing Dynasty emphasizes filial piety. Fulin is still young, how can we easily depose the title of my uncle?"

Seeing that no one objected, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang continued, "Keep his title. He may be able to help us handle government affairs and fight against other banner owners and princes in the future."

"But..." Sony was still worried, "The positions of Banner Lord and Regent cannot be left vacant for too long. The position of Banner Lord may be postponed, but the position of Regent cannot be delayed."

"Someone is indeed needed to take over to check and balance Jirgalang." Upon hearing this, Tan Tai, Tulai and others all bowed their heads and said nothing. Only Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang and Empress Zhezhe could decide on such an important matter. Everyone looked at them eagerly, waiting for their decision.

After some discussion, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang looked at everyone and said slowly: "My aunt and I have already discussed it. The strength of the Zhenghuang and Xianghuang banners alone is not enough. We need to unite two more banners. Only when the four banners unite can we have a say in politics."

Aobai asked in a low voice: "What does the Holy Mother Queen Mother mean..."

"Daishan can take over the position of regent and use this to win over the Zhenghong and Xianghong banners. Then one person can be selected from the Zhenghuang or Xianghuang banners to serve as the leader of the Zhengbai banner." The words of Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang revealed firmness and determination.

"This way, the court will be stable, and we can also take the opportunity to take back the Zhengbai Banner." She looked around at everyone and asked, "What do you think?"

Sony frowned and remained silent. Tan Tai, Tulai, Aobai and others were also silent. They were not members of the royal family, so they should avoid suspicion in the affairs of the flag owner. Although Gong Adai and Xihan were members of the Aisin-Gioro family, they did not dare to have any improper thoughts.

"Why aren't you talking?" Seeing this, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang couldn't help but feel a little anxious.

Sony was an old hand after all. He coughed lightly and said slowly, "Your Majesty, the Holy Mother Queen, I think that in addition to uniting with the Red Banner and the Bordered Red Banner, we should also bring the Bordered White Banner into our camp."

The implication was that Duoduo was the only one who could be the leader of the Plain White Banner. Upon hearing this, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang could not help but wonder, "Why?"

"In this battle to enter the Pass, Prince Yu Duoduo has made the greatest contribution. If he is not rewarded according to his merits, the soldiers will probably be disheartened!" Sony's words revealed an unquestionable firmness.

Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang understood the truth immediately. Yes! If Duoduo was not rewarded, how would the soldiers view them? Thinking of this, she couldn't help but praise Sony: "Sony, Sony, you are really a loyal minister of Taizu and Taizong, and you are not in vain!"

Sony responded modestly: "Shame on you."

After the matter was settled, Sony mentioned another matter: "Reporting to the Holy Mother Empress Dowager and Empress Zhezhe, Prince Yu Duoduo captured the Prince of Lu and his family of the Ming Dynasty when he entered the Pass, and wanted to exchange them for the remains of Ajige and Ebilun. The Ming Dynasty was also willing to exchange, but they asked us to return Zu Dashou and others."

When the name Zu Dashou came out, Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang and Empress Zhezhe were both stunned. This person was neither a royal family member nor a high-ranking official, so why was the Ming Dynasty so obsessed with him?

"What do you think we should do?" Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang asked Sony and others.

After hearing this, Aobai pondered for a moment and said, "Zu Dashou is an important figure in the Guanning Army. He is also valuable to our Qing Dynasty. The previous emperor wanted to recruit him. Now Wu Sangui has his own army, and the Ming Dynasty wants to use Zu Dashou to check and balance him. I think we should not agree to the Ming Dynasty's request!"

Sony said dissatisfiedly: "What about the remains of Ajige and Ebilun? Are they less valuable than a Han Chinese? What will the bannermen think if they know about this?"

Aobai stroked his beard and pondered for a moment. He and Sony were usually both partners and competitors. When there was an external enemy, they would join forces to fight, and when there was no external enemy, they would fight alone.

After some thought, Oboi came up with an idea: "I think we can adopt a delaying strategy. On the surface, we agree to the Ming Dynasty's request, but we need to slowly negotiate on matters such as replacement of personnel, law, land, and autopsy. This agenda can be long or short, five months, two or three years. This will not only appease the hearts of the bannermen, but also keep Zu Dashou. He is already 65 years old and has not much time left. After he dies, it will not be too late for us to exchange with the Ming Dynasty. In this way, my Qing Dynasty will not suffer any loss."

"What does the Holy Mother Empress Dowager think?" Oboi asked Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang for her opinion, his eyes revealing expectation and determination.

On the seventh day of the twelfth lunar month, the Chongzheng Hall in Shenyang was crowded with people. The princes, generals, beile and beizi of the royal family, as well as the flag masters and generals of the Eight Banners and important officials of the court gathered together, filling the entire hall. The sky outside was gray, as if foreshadowing that something unusual would happen today. The candlelight in the hall flickered, reflecting the different expressions on everyone's face, some nervous, some expectant, and some indifferent.

Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang (Bumbutai) and Empress Zhezhe quietly hid behind the screen behind the young Emperor Fulin, with only their eyes showing, listening carefully to the noise outside. Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang's eyes revealed a deep wisdom, while Empress Zhezhe's face was full of worry. They knew that what happened today was crucial to the future of the Qing Dynasty and the fate of them and their son.

Sony stood upright next to Fulin, holding the imperial edict in his hand. His voice was loud and powerful, as if it could penetrate everyone's heart: "In the first year of Shunzhi, Prince Heshuo Rui Dorgon led the Plain White, Bordered White, Bordered Yellow Banners, and the brothers of Outer Mongolia, and broke through the Great Wall and went south to attack the Ming Dynasty. In that battle, our soldiers were brave and fearless, which frightened the Ming army."

At this point, Sony paused, glanced at the people present, and then continued: "However, because he underestimated the enemy and advanced rashly, he suffered a great defeat and suffered heavy losses in his elite troops. Duolo Wuying Prince Ajige and First-Class Angbang Zhangjing Ebilun, two great generals, died on the battlefield, and even their bodies could not be brought back. This is undoubtedly a heavy blow to our Qing Dynasty."

Sony's voice became low and serious: "After discussing with the princes, beile, beizi, and ministers, the emperor originally planned to deprive Dorgon of his title and salary, and put him in prison for punishment. However," Sony changed the subject, "the title of Prince Heshuo Rui was bestowed by the late emperor himself, and we in the Qing Dynasty value filial piety. In order to express respect for the late emperor and demonstrate the filial piety of our Qing Dynasty, the emperor decided to only remove him from his positions as the leader of the Plain White Banner and the regent, and retain his title of Prince Heshuo Rui."

This decision stunned everyone present, and Dorgon was even more surprised. He had previously gone to the palace to ask for help from the Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang, but was rejected. Now that things had suddenly turned around, he was both surprised and delighted. He looked in the direction of the Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang. Although he could not see her face, he could feel the depth and wisdom in her eyes.

Jirgalang looked at Dorgon with a frown on his face. He muttered to himself: It's unheard of that this guy could keep his title after making such a big mistake. He turned to look at Daishan, wanting to oppose together as agreed before, but Daishan looked indifferent and even a little disgusted. Jirgalang knew that Daishan had been "bribed", and he was unwilling to accept it, so he began to look for accomplices in the crowd.

The leaders of the eight banners each had different thoughts. Fulin led the Plain Yellow Banner and the Bordered Yellow Banner, and naturally had a dignified look on his face; Dorgon led the Plain White Banner, but at this moment he looked a little lonely; Daishan looked as if it had nothing to do with him; and the others each had their own plans.

Haoge, the leader of the Bordered Blue Banner, was eager to see Dorgon suffer. He nodded his support immediately after hearing Sony's announcement. Luoluohun, the leader of the Bordered Red Banner, completely listened to Daishan and declined Jirgalang's solicitation. Finally, Jirgalang looked at Duoduo, the leader of the Bordered White Banner, hoping that he could turn the tables. Duoduo was a little hesitant. Although he and Dorgon were brothers, Dorgon had been very cruel to him in the past, taking away his flag and Niulu. Now he just took this opportunity to take revenge.

Oboi had been observing the reactions of the crowd, his eyes were sharp and deep. He saw Duoduo's hesitation and Jirgalang's helplessness, and he had already made up his mind. After asking Fulin for instructions with his eyes, he stood up and announced: "The emperor and the ministers have discussed and appointed Prince Li Daishan as the regent of my uncle, and Prince Yu Duoduo will temporarily serve as the leader of the Plain White Banner."

When Duoduo heard this, he was stunned for a moment, then quietly shook his head to Jirgalang to refuse. He was so satisfied in his heart that he didn't want to get involved in these things anymore. When Jirgalang saw this scene, he knew that the situation was hopeless and could only sigh helplessly.

Dorgon reacted quickly. He knelt down to express his gratitude: "Your Majesty, I thank you for your generosity! Long live the emperor!" His voice was full of gratitude and awe. Fulin was very happy to see that he was so sensible, so he asked everyone: "Do you think my handling of the matter is appropriate?"

When everyone heard this, they immediately knelt down and kowtowed to praise the emperor's wisdom. Fulin showed a satisfied smile on his face, as he knew that today's decision was of great significance to the future of the Qing Dynasty.

After a few pleasantries, Sony spoke again: "Your Majesty, and all the adults, there is some movement in Mongolia, we have to pay attention." There was a sense of worry in his voice.

Daishan got angry when he heard this: "Do they want to rebel? Our Eight Banners cavalry are no pushovers!" His voice was loud and powerful, as if it could penetrate the entire hall.

Looking at Daishan, Aobai secretly sighed: The position of regent is indeed magical, it can inspire the ambitions of even the old ministers. He shook his head gently, then looked at Sony, waiting for his next words.

Sony smiled and comforted Daishan: "Don't get excited, Prince Li. How dare the Mongols rebel? They are just complaining that there is not enough food and sending envoys to petition." His voice was gentle and powerful, as if it could calm all waves.

Jirgalang also interrupted: "I heard that the Ming court exempted the entire country from taxes for one year, and the people have surplus food. Why didn't we get much food this time?" His face was full of confusion and dissatisfaction.

Sony smiled bitterly and replied, "Your Highness, you have forgotten that merchants' wealth cannot be obtained by robbing. Last year, the eight major merchants in Zhangjiakou Fort transported several million shi of grain to Shengjing. As a result, the Ming court killed them all this spring, the trade route was cut off, and the source of food became less and less." His voice revealed a sense of helplessness and regret.

Everyone fell silent when they heard this. They realized that the power of merchants was the fundamental basis for resisting the Ming court. Jirgalang asked hurriedly: "Can the current merchants be won over?" His voice was full of eagerness and expectation.

Sony shook his head: "It's difficult! The Ming court has very strict control over the businesses in Xuanfu. There are only three companies that dare to trade with us: Zhou's Business, Jinshengyuan, and Wanfuxiang." His voice revealed helplessness and worry.

Daishan asked: "What are the backgrounds of these three families?" His voice was full of curiosity and inquiry.

Sony replied, "The Zhou Company is controlled by Lin Xiaofeng's father-in-law Zhou Kui; Jin Shengyuan has a complicated background and is said to be related to Li Banghua, the Minister of War and Prime Minister of the Cabinet; as for Wan Fuxiang, it is not so clear." There was a sense of caution and uncertainty in his voice.

Jirgalang nodded and said, "Okay, we have to deal with these three companies more and rebuild the trade route. If it really doesn't work, we'll find another way." His voice was full of determination and firmness.

After the discussion, everyone dispersed. Although the New Year was approaching, there was no festive atmosphere in Shengjing. Instead, white cloth was hung everywhere and there were constant cries. Dorgon didn't want to hear these voices, so he left in the same sedan chair with Fan Wencheng.

In the sedan chair, Dorgon seemed a little lonely and melancholy. He looked at the gray sky outside the window, feeling mixed emotions. Fan Wencheng smiled and comforted him: "Don't worry, Prince Rui. I think we should retreat in order to advance. This setback is only temporary. As long as we unite as one and fight against the Ming court together, we will surely win." His voice was full of confidence and determination.

Dorgon felt a little relieved after hearing Fan Wencheng's words. He nodded and said, "You are right. We should retreat in order to advance. This failure has made me understand the importance of unity. As long as we, the Eight Banners, are united, we will be able to defeat the Ming court and rule the entire Central Plains." His voice revealed a firmness and determination.

"You mean the tactic of 'retreat to advance'?" Dorgon lowered his head and pondered, chewing these four words over and over in his mouth, as if he could taste new flavors every time. His eyes were deep, like the stars in the night sky, shining with the light of wisdom.

"Yes, the court is in chaos now. If we force our way in, we might get dragged in and get hurt." Fan Wencheng whispered to Dorgon. His voice was low and powerful, and every word sounded like a carefully calculated chess piece, landing on Dorgon's heart. "Leading troops to fight can be meritorious, but ensuring good logistics is also a great achievement!"

Doubt flashed in Dorgon's eyes, and he looked up at Fan Wencheng, whose eyes seemed to be able to see through people's hearts. Fan Wencheng lowered his voice and asked, "Prince Rui, how confident are you that you sent someone to Fujian to contact Zheng Zhilong?"

Dorgon smiled slightly, his smile showing both confidence and cunning: "Well, it's hard to say. But Zheng Zhilong was born a pirate and also does business. As long as the benefits are enough, he will succeed in nine out of ten cases. He is a pragmatist and knows how to weigh the pros and cons."

Fan Wencheng moved closer and whispered, "That's good. When the weather warms up in the spring, you can ask the emperor for permission to take a thousand people to Korea to purchase supplies. Korea has abundant supplies and has close relations with us, so we will definitely gain something from this trip."

"If I can really buy something that the court urgently needs, it will be a great achievement! Then I can return to the court in no time!" Dorgon was overjoyed when he heard this. He knew that returning to the court was the emperor's intention, but before that, he had to show some achievements to convince the people and let them see that he, Dorgon, was not so easy to deal with.

"Speaking of the Emperor, he actually listens to the Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang (Bumbutai) the most. With her relationship, our plan will definitely succeed." Dorgon said confidently, his tone revealing his awe and closeness to the Empress Dowager Xiaozhuang.

"Mr. Fan, you are really my think tank!" Dorgon stood up and bowed deeply to Fan Wencheng. His movements were sincere and powerful, as if he was paying tribute to a long-lost comrade-in-arms.

Fan Wencheng quickly responded: "Prince Rui, you are too polite. I am only trying my best. It is my honor to be able to offer you advice."

"I'll go to Korea after the New Year and I'll have to trouble you to accompany me." Dorgon's tone was earnest and expectant.

"No, no, it's my honor to travel with Prince Rui!" Fan Wencheng replied with a smile. His smile was full of expectations for the future and admiration for Dorgon.

Outside the sedan, the snow was falling harder and harder, the cold wind was blowing like a knife, and the sedan bearers silently quickened their pace. Snowflakes were flying, like tears from the sky, falling on the land of Shengjing. Suddenly, gorgeous fireworks bloomed in the sky, banging, decorating the night sky of Shengjing like daytime. The fireworks were colorful, like blooming flowers, and like the stars in the sky, flashing charming light.

"It's New Year! It's New Year!" The children's cheers echoed in the snow, and their laughter was clear and melodious, like the singing of birds in spring.

"It's still early!" an adult responded with a smile, his voice filled with some kindness and doting.

"My mom said that the Chinese New Year starts in the twelfth lunar month!" a child argued, his tone full of longing and anticipation for the Chinese New Year.

"Your mother is right!" another adult agreed, his smile revealing his love for the children's innocence.

Fireworks continued to rise into the sky, dyeing the night sky of the capital city colorful. People looked up and watched, their faces filled with joy and happiness. The fireworks seemed to be messengers from the sky, bringing New Year's blessings and hopes.

"It's not that we can't afford fireworks, it's just that other people's fireworks are more cost-effective." Someone sighed, with a bit of humor and self-mockery in his tone, "But the price of fireworks this year is more than 50% more expensive than last year!"

"It's because the imperial court needs a large amount of gunpowder. The price of gunpowder in the private sector has also risen, and even firecrackers have become expensive." Another person took over, his voice filled with helplessness and complaints.

"Oh, life is hard. We have to save even the money to set off firecrackers." An old man sighed, his eyes revealing the hardships and difficulties of life.

"Be content! The emperor has exempted us from taxes, so we have some spare money." A middle-aged man comforted, with a hint of gratitude and satisfaction in his voice.

"Your Majesty is wise and has given us a peaceful life!" an old man exclaimed, his tone full of admiration and gratitude for the emperor.

"I heard that the emperor has issued an order to exempt taxes for next year. How strange!" a young man said in surprise, his eyes revealing awe and curiosity towards the emperor.

"How could it be false? Who dares to say that?" another person retorted, with a bit of firmness and confidence in his voice.

"With so many people in the court and such high expenses, where does the emperor get the money?" a woman asked curiously, with a hint of doubt and confusion in her tone.

"He has a source! I heard that a lot of money was confiscated from those rebellious merchants, and the emperor didn't keep any for himself. He used it all to give us tax exemptions." An insider explained, his voice tinged with admiration and emotion.

"Long live the emperor!" People on the street knelt down spontaneously to thank the emperor for his great grace. Their voices were in unison and powerful, as if they were swearing to the sky their loyalty and respect for the emperor. "The New Year is coming soon. When you send off the Kitchen God, don't forget to pray for the emperor. May he be healthy, live long, and have everything he wants." An old man reminded, his tone was a bit solemn and dignified.

"Remember!" everyone responded in unison, their voices filled with anticipation for the New Year and blessings to the Emperor.

Bang, bang, bang, the firecrackers flew up into the air again, shaking the snow off the eaves. The firecrackers seemed to be a messenger from the sky, bringing the joy and blessings of the New Year. Jiao Xu, the deputy minister of the Ministry of Industry, frowned and shook his head, his eyes revealing his dissatisfaction and worry about the firecrackers. Tang Ruowang curiously asked him what was wrong, his tone was filled with concern and curiosity.

"This firecracker doesn't fly high enough! The emperor asked me if we can add lead bullets into it and turn it into a weapon to kill the enemy." Jiao Xu explained, with a hint of helplessness and complaint in his voice.

"Have you tried it? If you add too much lead, it won't fly, and if you add too little, it won't work." Tang Ruowang's face changed when he heard it, and he quickly checked if he was injured. "Did you add lead to the one you just tried? Are you crazy?"

"No, I used soil of equal weight." Jiao Xu explained, with a hint of embarrassment and helplessness in his tone.

"That's good!" Tang Ruowang breathed a sigh of relief, "But...even if it can fly, how do you control its direction?"

"Use the gun barrel! I've tried it. Wherever the muzzle is pointed, the firecrackers will fly there." Jiao Xu said confidently, his eyes revealing his trust and expectation in the gun barrel.

"Good idea!" Tang Ruowang nodded in praise, but he was still a little puzzled when he saw the firecrackers all over the ground. "Why not just use shrapnel? The effect will definitely be better than firecrackers."

"Fragmentation bombs have many problems! One out of ten may explode prematurely and injure one of our own people, or the fuse may go out and be picked up by the enemy. The soldiers on the front line are afraid of it and call it the 'loyalty bomb'," Jiao Xu explained, with a hint of helplessness and complaint in his tone.

"It's different if you use firecrackers. They're easy to carry and have a higher success rate." Tang Ruowang pouted and said, "You keep trying. I'm going back to my room to have some tea!"

"Wait, help me finish this before you leave!" Jiao Xu held him back, his eyes revealing his dedication and persistence in the experiment. He knew that only by continuous experimentation and improvement could he find the most suitable weapon and contribute to the peace of the country and the happiness of the people.

In a blink of an eye, the 20th day of the twelfth lunar month came quietly. The cold wind was biting and the snow was flying, making the entire capital city look extremely charming. Among the four major festivals of the Ming Dynasty, the Winter Solstice, the Spring Festival, the Lantern Festival and the Emperor's Birthday Festival were undoubtedly the most grand. These four festivals have one thing in common, that is, all officials can take a vacation. As for whether to hold a banquet to entertain the officials, it all depends on the emperor's mood.

On this cold winter day, Lin Xiaofeng, the young and promising emperor, was sitting in the warm room of the Qianqing Palace, holding a cup of hot tea in his hand, with a deep look in his eyes. His personal eunuch Guo Tianyang stood by carefully, thinking about how to start. He knew that the Emperor's birthday and the Spring Festival were approaching, and this festive atmosphere was hiding a subtle tension.

"Your Majesty, I dare to ask, on the day of the Emperor's Birthday, should we hold a banquet to entertain all the ministers?" Guo Tianyang finally plucked up the courage and asked softly.

Lin Xiaofeng frowned slightly, and after thinking for a moment, he said, "Now, the bandits are rampant inside the pass, and the Jurchens and Mongols outside the pass are eyeing us covetously. As the monarch of the Ming Dynasty, how can I lead the way in extravagance and waste? Pass down the decree, no banquet will be held for the Wanshou Festival, but give all officials a day off."

"I obey your order." Guo Tianyang was about to leave when Lin Xiaofeng stopped him.

"Wait. How is the red envelope that I asked you to prepare?" Lin Xiaofeng asked with concern.

"Your Majesty, there are still more than a hundred packages to be packed, and they can be finished in the afternoon." Guo Tianyang replied respectfully.

"How is the preparation for Daming Money House going?" Lin Xiaofeng continued to ask.

"Everything is ready. The banknotes have been printed. We can open for business once the silver from the treasury arrives." Guo Tianyang reported.

Lin Xiaofeng nodded with satisfaction. His original intention of setting up this bank was to establish an official bank of the Ming Dynasty to promote economic development. In that era, productivity was low and transportation was inconvenient, so commerce became the lifeblood of the economy. However, the prosperity of commerce requires a stable environment. Nowadays, domestic bandits are rampant, trade routes are blocked, and trade between the north and the south has been seriously affected.

The main items transported from the south to the north were food, tea, porcelain, silk, timber and other necessities; while the only items transported from the north to the south were coal and cotton, which were small in quantity and of a single variety. Therefore, the south always had a trade surplus, while the north suffered a trade deficit. Merchants in the south had only two options for transporting the money they earned in the north back to the south: either follow the large caravans or bribe the officers and soldiers of the canal transport and transport it back secretly. Both methods were not conducive to the development of commerce.

Although there are some money houses on the market, their scale and reputation are limited. Lin Xiaofeng set up Daming Money House to solve this problem. He planned to open a money house in Beijing and Nanjing. Merchants only need to hold silver bills to exchange for silver, thus facilitating transactions and promoting the circulation of currency. The faster the circulation of currency, the faster the economy will develop.

The money houses in Beijing were ready and it was easy to open. However, Nanjing was in trouble. Although the funds might be gathered, the candidates needed to be carefully considered. Lin Xiaofeng was immersed in deep thought when he suddenly heard hurried footsteps outside the palace. As soon as the door opened, a young eunuch ran in against the cold wind and knelt on the ground to report: "Your Majesty, something happened in the Imperial College!"

Guo Tianyang quickly signaled to the guards outside the palace to close the door tightly. Firstly, he was afraid that the cold air would hurt the emperor, and secondly, he wanted to prevent the news from leaking out. Once the door was closed, Lin Xiaofeng asked the reason.

"There was a student from the Imperial College who was kneeling in front of the imperial city gate and crying out for justice. He has been arrested by the Yongwei Battalion and is being locked up in a temporary cell." The young eunuch replied in a trembling voice.

Hearing the words "kneel and complain", Guo Tianyang's heart was beating fast. This kid is too bold! It's the 20th day of the twelfth lunar month, and it's only four days away from the Emperor's birthday! Isn't it courting death to complain outside the imperial city at this time? No matter if it's unjust or not, it's hard to escape. If there is no injustice, he must die; if there is injustice, even if the emperor vindicates him, he must be killed to set an example. How can you just break into the royal territory?

Before Lin Xiaofeng could say anything, another young eunuch came in and knelt down and said, "Your Majesty, the Imperial College's chief academic officer, Hou Yongfeng, and the vice-minister, Wang Gaoming, want to see you."

In the Imperial College, the chief priest was the boss and in charge of all affairs. Lin Xiaofeng ordered: "Let them in. But wait, bring that student here too. Since he wants to die to prove his integrity, I will let him die knowingly!"

Soon, Hou Yongfeng, Wang Gaoming and the student named Jiang Gui were taken to the Qianqing Palace. The three of them looked at each other, their eyes full of determination and resoluteness. At this point, they had no choice but to go ahead.

Hou Yongfeng knelt on the ground, and said with a trembling voice: "Your Majesty, I am guilty! I failed to supervise my student and let him enter the forbidden area. Please have mercy on me, Your Majesty."

Lin Xiaofeng looked at the three people. Although his face was serious, he actually admired the courage of the student. As a person who traveled through time, he was not angry about this kind of behavior that challenged the imperial power. On the contrary, he admired it. After all, how much courage does it take! So, he asked curiously: "What's your name? How old are you? Where are you from? What injustice do you want to sue?"

Jiang Gui replied in a trembling voice: "Your Majesty, my name is Jiang Gui, I am 28 years old, and I am from Tongzhou Prefecture, Zhili. What I want to sue is the unfair distribution of food in the Imperial College." His eyes revealed a kind of determination and persistence, as if he was ready to face all the consequences.

As soon as Jiang Gui mentioned the issue of food, the head of the Imperial College, Hou Yongfeng, the old man with a stern face and sharp eyes, immediately shouted sternly: "Jiang Gui, if you confess your crime to His Majesty now, you may be able to ask for leniency and be exiled to Lingnan. If you continue to be so stubborn, I'm afraid you won't even find a place to bury your body!" His voice echoed in the warm room of the Qianqing Palace with an unquestionable majesty. However, Jiang Gui's face did not change at all. His resolute face revealed an unyielding light, and he answered firmly: "What's there to be afraid of death!" Although his voice was not loud, it was full of determination and courage.

Then, he turned to Emperor Lin Xiaofeng, the young and promising monarch with deep eyes, and spoke in detail: "According to the court regulations, students from poor families in the Imperial College can receive one liter of rice as food every day, and fish, meat, salt and sauce are also supplied by the government. These are all true stories, don't doubt it!" There was a hint of pleading in his tone, as if he hoped that the emperor could understand his situation.

"Later, we changed to silver, one or two taels of silver every month." Jiang Gui continued, his voice began to tremble, as if he was recalling the hardships of the past, "My family was poor, and I used to receive this silver every month, which was my livelihood."

"But two months ago, Wang Siye from the Imperial College sent someone to tell me that my family was not poor, so they stopped my stipend." His eyes revealed anger and helplessness. "When I checked carefully, I found that my stipend had been taken by someone else! I really had no choice but to run to the outside of the imperial city to appeal to Your Majesty and ask Your Majesty to make the decision for me." There was a hint of crying in his voice, as if all the grievances and unwillingness were poured out at this moment.

After listening to this, Lin Xiaofeng narrowed his eyes slightly, which was an expression of deep thought and a sign of an upcoming decision. Guo Tianyang knew that the emperor was going to take real action, because he would narrow his eyes like this every time before he wanted to kill someone. He stood aside nervously, waiting for the emperor's next instruction.

Hou Yongfeng didn't wait for the emperor to ask, and rushed to say: "Your Majesty, I have something to say." There was a hint of urgency in his voice, as if he wanted to clarify the facts as soon as possible.

"Go ahead." Lin Xiaofeng said lightly, his eyes still narrowed, as if he saw through everything.

Hou Yongfeng swallowed and began to explain, "There are now 736 students in the Imperial College, and the Ministry of Revenue only allocates 55 taels of silver for food and beverage each month, which is only enough for 55 people. In order to take care of the truly poor students, we have readjusted the quota. Jiang Gui does not meet the standards, so Wang Gaoming has his money stopped. Your Majesty, please look into this!" There was a hint of pleading and expectation in his voice, as if he hoped that the emperor could understand their difficulties.

Lin Xiaofeng thought for a while and asked Jiang Gui: "Why don't you report this matter directly to the Ministry of Households or the Ministry of Households?" There was a hint of doubt in his voice, as if he wanted to know more details.

Jiang Gui replied, "They are all in the same gang. How can it be fair if they investigate themselves?" There was a hint of anger and helplessness in his voice, as if he was full of disappointment in this world.

Hou Yongfeng retorted: "The selection and distribution of stipends are in accordance with the regulations of the court. How could there be any mistakes?" There was a hint of firmness and confidence in his voice, as if he was full of confidence in his judgment.

Jiang Gui was so angry that he shouted loudly: "Your Majesty, you will know the truth sooner or later!" His voice echoed in the warm room with determination and firmness.

Lin Xiaofeng found it very interesting: "You all have your own stories, who should I believe?" There was a playful look in his eyes, as if he was very interested in the case.

Jiang Gui kowtowed and said, "Your Majesty, I know the person who took my place. He wears gorgeous clothes every day and goes out in a sedan chair. You can tell at a glance that he is not a poor man! Please let Your Majesty have a clear understanding!" There was a hint of pleading and expectation in his voice, as if he hoped that the emperor could make the decision for him.

Hou Yongfeng glared and said, "What he wears or sits on has nothing to do with you?" There was a hint of impatience and anger in his voice, as if he was dissatisfied with Jiang Gui's accusation.

Jiang Gui's face flushed with anger. He wanted to refute, but he couldn't speak. He could only kneel there in silence, his eyes revealing a kind of helplessness and despair.

At this time, Wang Gaoming took the opportunity to interrupt and said, "Your Majesty, after verification, the person who occupies Jiang Gui's quota is indeed poor, and there is nothing wrong in giving him food and drink. He is well dressed and sits well, all thanks to the support of his relatives. And Jiang Gui himself often wears luxurious clothes." There was a hint of pride and sophistry in his voice, as if he wanted to justify his behavior.

Jiang Gui wanted to refute, but he couldn't say anything. He could only kneel there in silence, his eyes revealing a kind of helplessness and anger. He knew that he could not prove his innocence, nor could he expose the crimes of those corrupt officials. He felt a deep sense of powerlessness and despair.

Wang Gaoming smiled complacently: "Your Majesty, you see, he has nothing to say. He is obviously in the wrong. I hope Your Majesty can see clearly!" There was a hint of sarcasm and complacency in his voice, as if he had already won.

Lin Xiaofeng frowned. This matter was much more complicated than he thought. Just based on what they said, it was impossible to tell who was right and who was wrong. It could be that the Imperial College had an unfair allocation, or it could be that Jiang Gui had made a false accusation. He was silent for a while, then asked, "Do you have anything else to say?" There was a hint of fatigue and helplessness in his voice, as if he was troubled by the case.

"No, Your Majesty." Hou Yongfeng and Wang Gaoming answered in unison, with a hint of relief and pride in their voices, as if they had already gotten rid of suspicion.

"There are no more students." Jiang Gui replied in a low voice. There was a hint of despair and helplessness in his voice, as if he had given up hope.

"Okay, then I will order the Pacification Office to investigate. I will never let anyone who dares to deceive the emperor off lightly!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was filled with dignity and determination. He knew that this case could not be easily resolved, and he had to find out the truth before making a decision.

Everyone shuddered at the words "Zhenfusi". Zhenfusi was a secret service of the imperial court. They were vicious and cruel. Once someone fell into their hands, few people could come out alive.

"Everyone, leave." Lin Xiaofeng waved his hand, signaling them to leave. His eyes revealed a kind of fatigue and helplessness, as if he was troubled by this case.

Hou Yongfeng and Wang Gaoming looked at each other in bewilderment. Jiang Gui had entered the imperial city privately, but they let him go just like that? What was the reason? They were full of doubts and dissatisfaction, but they dared not show it.

Jiang Gui was also confused. Wasn't this emperor known for his cruelty? Why was he so easy to talk to today? He was filled with gratitude and doubts, but he didn't know how to express it.

"Your Majesty, Jiang Gui trespassed into the imperial city, and he deserves..." Hou Yongfeng wanted to say something, but was glared at by Lin Xiaofeng.

"Shut up!" Lin Xiaofeng's voice was filled with anger and majesty. "The students of the Imperial College are all my students, and I am their teacher. How can I blame him if the students ask him for help?" His eyes revealed a kind of care and protection, as if he regarded all the students as his own children.

Jiang Gui was so moved when he heard this that he burst into tears. Such a teacher is worth associating with, and he will definitely help if there is anything! His heart was filled with gratitude and respect, as if he had found a harbor he could rely on.

"Everyone, leave." Lin Xiaofeng waved his hand again to signal them to leave. His eyes revealed a kind of fatigue and helplessness, as if he was troubled by this case. But he knew that he had to persevere for the sake of those innocent students and people.

After the three kowtowed to express their gratitude, they carefully left the Qianqing Palace. They were full of doubts and uneasiness, not knowing how the case would end. But they knew that this young emperor was not simple, and he had his own judgment and decision.

Lin Xiaofeng looked at their backs, feeling heavy in his heart. Although this was just a small matter, it reflected a big problem. The students of the Imperial College had no way to protect their rights, and they had to alert the emperor to solve the problem. What should ordinary people do? He was filled with worries and thoughts, and he knew he had to make changes.

In this era of information stagnation, although we cannot achieve perfection, we must at least strive for fairness. Only in this way can we win the hearts of the people and establish the prestige of the government. Especially those grassroots officials, their words and deeds represent the image of the court. He was full of determination and faith, and he knew that he had to make changes for this country and this nation.

Thinking of this, Lin Xiaofeng immediately gave an order: "Summon the Minister of Personnel, the Minister of Rites, and the Left Censor-in-Chief of the Censorate to come to the palace to see me." There was a hint of majesty and determination in his voice, as if he had already made up his mind.

It was already late at night when Miao Yikui, Cheng Qinghua and Shi Bangyao received the imperial edict. On their way to the palace, they were filled with doubts and uneasiness. Miao Yikui asked anxiously, "Your Majesty summoned us late at night. Is he going to punish us?" There was a hint of trembling and uneasiness in his voice.

Shi Bangyao smiled bitterly and did not answer. He knew that this young emperor was not simple, and he had his own judgment and decision. He did not know what this late night summons meant, but he knew they had to face it.

Cheng Qinghua smiled and said, "Not necessarily, maybe it's a good thing." There was a hint of optimism and expectation in his voice, as if he hoped that this late-night summons would bring some good news.

"Good news? Are they going to give us gold?" Miao Yikui said half-jokingly. He knew that the possibility was not great, but he still hoped that something good would happen.

"That's not necessarily true." Shi Bangyao said calmly. He knew that the young emperor had his own plans and would not easily give gold to his subjects.

"Don't talk nonsense. Although your majesty is rich, the treasury is not well-off after two consecutive years of tax exemption." Cheng Qinghua reminded him. He knew that the country's financial situation was not optimistic and the emperor was also working hard to save money.

As soon as the three entered the Qianqing Palace, Guo Tianyang came up to them holding three red envelopes: "These are rewards from your majesty to the three adults." There was a hint of joy and respect in his voice, as if he was happy that the emperor could reward his subjects.

"Red envelope?" The three of them were stunned for a moment. At that time, there was no such thing as a red envelope. They looked at the red envelope in Guo Tianyang's hand in confusion, not knowing what it was.

Lin Xiaofeng smiled and said, "The Birthday of the Emperor and the Spring Festival are coming soon. I want to save some money, so I won't hold those celebrations. The money saved will be distributed to you as holiday expenses. The red envelope contains silver notes, which are my reward to you." There was a hint of kindness and care in his voice, as if he regarded his subjects as his own family.

Miao Yikui quickly knelt down to express his gratitude. (End of this chapter)