Water Margin begins as a captain in Yanggu County

Chapter 443 I, the Emperor, inherit the Mandate of Heaven and ascend the throne.

The girls' school was under construction, and Cheng Xiaoniang, along with Li Qingzhao, Meng Yulou, and Hu Sanniang, were all very busy with it. Many other people were also involved, such as Hua Xiaoniang, Wu Song's wife...

Cheng Jiyue even personally recruited students in the capital...

Wu Song has returned, and he has a task to take over: the construction of schools throughout the land. Su Wu had already discussed this with him, valuing Wu Song's intolerant nature...

Yue Fei was busy preparing for the western expedition, while Han Shizhong was preparing for the campaign against the Tibetan Empire in Qinghai...

Recently, the leaders of various tribes on the grasslands have all come to the capital to pay homage to the Heavenly Khan. Firstly, the Emperor invited them to visit Bianjing (Kaifeng), and secondly, the Emperor has recently bestowed great rewards upon the various tribes, so they have come to express their gratitude and bring some return gifts...

The campaign against Goryeo will have to wait, as there are many more things to prepare, the most important being the construction and training of the naval gunboats...

In fact, Goryeo was very difficult to attack. The mountains and forests in northern Goryeo were extremely vast and many of them were very steep. From the Han Dynasty to the Sui and Tang Dynasties, the Goryeo people built a great many cities and fortresses in the north. In particular, many of these fortresses were built against the mountains, making them very difficult to attack.

The sea route was a must, and all preparations had to be in place. For such a matter of national importance, Su Wu could not afford to fail…

The Emperor is currently busy with the palace examination. Those who can enter the palace examination are already Jinshi (successful candidates in the highest imperial examinations). In the past, the palace examination rarely eliminated candidates, and often it did not eliminate any candidates at all. Of course, there are exceptions. For example, Cheng Yi of the Cheng-Zhu school of Neo-Confucianism was eliminated in the palace examination, but the reason is unknown.

The palace examination served two purposes. First, it allowed numerous candidates to meet the emperor. For the vast majority of successful candidates, this was probably the only time in their lives they would see the emperor. Clearly, the competition in the officialdom was extremely fierce, and most people spent their entire lives working at the grassroots level, rarely having the chance to stand in the emperor's court.

Secondly, it was a ranking system: the first-class Jinshi (进士) was the highest level, the second-class Jinshi was the lowest level, and the third-class Jinshi was the lowest level.

There are differences among them. Those ranked first are basically admitted to the Hanlin Academy, those ranked second need to pass an exam to enter the Hanlin Academy, and those ranked third are assigned to local posts, holding ranks seven or eight...

In layman's terms, this is about organizational affiliation. The organizational affiliation of the top-tier students is directly with the central government, and even the second-tier students, with some effort and a bit more studying, can also be affiliated with the central government...

The top three are the vast majority of people who will never have a chance to enter the central government in their lifetime, unless they are exceptionally talented individuals or have extremely strong connections from powerful families...

During the palace examination, the emperor bathed and burned incense, dressed neatly, with his crown and tassels on his face. He remained serious and motionless, sitting upright on the high platform of the Funing Hall, holding the reins of power.

Inside the main hall, hundreds of tables were set up. This year, three hundred people were selected for the civil service examination, so there were naturally three hundred tables.

Many candidates had been waiting at the Zuoye Gate for a long time, just waiting for the gate to open so that they could be led into the palace by officials from the Ministry of Rites and then pay their respects to the emperor.

Then everyone took their seats, many of them already trembling and sweating profusely...

Some people were so nervous that they even knocked over their inkstones, but fortunately, someone would come to clean them up, and no one would really blame them.

There were also people who kept their heads down, but tried hard to raise their eyes to see what the emperor actually looked like. In reality, they couldn't see him, or rather, they could only see him very vaguely, since the emperor's face was covered by a beaded veil...

There are also etiquette rules; one cannot look directly at the emperor, as that would be a serious offense.

Su Wu simply sat motionless like a temple statue, which embodied the seriousness of politics and the majesty of the nation!
This dignity must be maintained, both internally and externally!
What is power? It is actually control and restraint!

It refers to the control and restraint exerted by superiors over subordinates, especially in the officialdom that governs the country.

It was Su Wu's control and restraint over all officials! It even brought psychological pressure to everyone, and could even inspire awe and a little fear.

how so?

Only in this way can we ensure that the country's administrative system can truly get things done properly.

Without this authority and control, there is no power, and the country will be in trouble!

This principle, when explained, may seem somewhat counterintuitive or unreasonable.

But the logic behind an organization's internal success must be the same.

This matter is a struggle against human nature. Call it exploitation or power politics, but those in power are fighting against the humanity of those in lower positions...

The vast majority of people are not born disliking pleasure; they prefer working and enduring hardship!
This is especially true for those who have already achieved a certain social status and wealth. If you want these people to work hard, you need to exert stronger control and restraint!
That's talking about officials!

The so-called majesty of power, the seriousness of politics, control, and restraint force people to give up too much enjoyment, and to work and endure hardship even if they don't like it, otherwise they cannot bear the consequences.

Our ancestors explained this matter thoroughly over thousands of years, as the saying goes, "A great man transforms into a tiger."

To give a specific example, let's not go too far back, but just look at Emperor Huizong of Song (Zhao Ji). His frivolity and lack of seriousness were the root causes of his tragic life of losing his country.

In other words, Zhao Ji had already lost power long ago; it wasn't Su Wu who made him lose power.

Su Wu understood this principle, as did his ancestors thousands of years ago. However, even a thousand years later, most countries in the world seem to have lost sight of it, and seem to be gradually and actively diminishing the seriousness of politics.

The palace examination was more like a ceremony, with the actual exam being just a formality.

The emperor may speak, but he cannot speak directly; his words are written in an imperial edict, which Zong Ze then reads.

The Emperor of Great Yan decreed: "I have inherited the Mandate of Heaven and ascended the throne. I have been diligent day and night, but I fear that my virtue is insufficient and that I cannot illuminate the ancestral temples and benefit the people. The foundation of this great dynasty, the promotion of culture and governance, and the efforts to govern it have all relied on the selection of virtuous and capable individuals through the imperial examination system."

Now that the spring imperial examinations have concluded, a gathering of brilliant minds has been formed. You students, bearing your books, have come here, all outstanding talents from the academies and the pillars of the prefectures. You have delved into the classics to explore the realm of sages, carrying your books to traverse the fertile waters of Confucianism. I, the Emperor, have presided over the hall to issue the examination papers and have personally witnessed your magnificent achievements.

The purpose of establishing the imperial examination system is not merely to display ornate writings, but to seek grand plans for governing the country. In the past, Jia Yi wept bitterly in the Xuan Room, and Zhong Shu offered his strategies to the Emperor; both aimed to understand the principles and apply them effectively, with the fundamental goal of benefiting the world and bringing peace to the people. You should each display your talents and strategies, and fully express your lifelong learning. If Chao Cuo's discourse on military affairs and agriculture, or Fan Pang's clear and insightful arguments, I will certainly listen with an open mind.

The momentous occasion has arrived. The strategies employed on the imperial throne are not merely for personal glory; we should emulate the loyalty of Ji and Qi, and not follow the example of those who secluded themselves in Zhongnan Mountain. I will personally select the top scholar and place him among the ranks of the elite. The imperial banquet and the inscription on the golden list are not only personal honors, but also a blessing for the nation.

I urge you, my esteemed advisors, to heed my words: I desire the assistance of Yi Yin and Zhou Gong, to jointly achieve a reign as prosperous as that of Yao and Shun. The treasures of Heaven are contained within this scroll; today, the winds of change and the gathering of dragons and tigers will bring forth a powerful force. Each of you must exert your utmost and not fail my expectations!

Admire this. "

Everyone immediately rose and bowed deeply, saying, "Your Majesty is wise!"

When the examination began, the emperor posed the question, and Zong Ze replied: "Foreign lands!"

In just two words, "foreign lands" refers to foreign countries. It's a discussion about the world and how the land of China should interact with it.

You can write it in a narrow sense or in a broad sense.

It can be discussed in terms of a specific country or issue, or it can be discussed in terms of how a country should formulate its foreign policy and how it should deal with foreign countries.

The students and test takers all began to furrow their brows, racking their brains for a solution.

Su Wu couldn't help but say, "The world is vast, and there is a distinction between the Chinese and the barbarians. My destiny is to ensure that the people of China prosper and thrive!"

Su Wu was implying to everyone that he didn't want those saintly words; he wanted to be radical, selfish, and solely benefit the Great Yan.

As for the future, how future generations will face this world is a matter for posterity, or perhaps we can discuss it when Su Wu is old...

At this moment, a tremendous change is taking place, unknown to the world but known to Su Wu: the first step is to establish the true structure of this world, defining which place belongs to which family or country—this is of great importance.

The sea is mine, the land is mine, the mine is mine—this is very important.

Regarding this one matter, Su Wu felt that if he didn't do it himself, future generations might not be able to do it well.

Su Wu gave a hint, and whether the many candidates understood it or not depended on their fate. It had nothing to do with intelligence; there were certainly no fools present…

This is related to each person's mindset; some people are born with a saintly heart, and there's nothing that can be done about it.

Some people are born with an iron-blooded nature, and that's exactly what Su Wu wanted.

Every dynasty has its own character, and just like people, Su Wu was also laying the foundation for and shaping the character of the Great Yan Dynasty.

A nation's character is closely related to the ideas of its intellectuals.

The candidates scratched their heads and wrote furiously.

Su Wu sat upright on the high platform and began his work, constantly laying out and reviewing official documents. Time passed swiftly as he worked.

When the emperor holds a banquet, once the examination papers are collected and the writing implements are removed, delicacies are served on the long table.

There was wine, so we drank a cup with the emperor, then ate a meal. After we were full, we each left the palace.

Su Wu finally left the stage, taking off his "armor." Then came the work of grading and ranking the papers. Su Wu had to review each of the three hundred papers one by one.

The first person Su Wu looked at was Zhang Jiucheng from Kaifeng. Su Wu was actually looking forward to it, hoping he wouldn't disappoint anyone.

Zhang Jiucheng must be a rather radical and ruthless person; otherwise, Su Wu would be greatly disappointed, and his ranking would certainly not be high.

In the days that followed, many scholars were busy with various activities, poetry gatherings and societies, one after another.

On the first day of the Lantern Festival, which is the fourteenth day of the first lunar month, the results of the exams were posted outside Donghua Gate.

This was a special imperial examination, and also the first imperial examination held since the founding of the Great Yan Dynasty.

Outside Donghua Gate, there was a huge crowd. Su Wu even took the time to go up to the city wall to take a look. Officials from the Ministry of Rites were calling out names.

"The top scholar in the first class, the number one in the first class, the champion in the imperial examination, Zhang Jiucheng from Kaifeng!"

Cheers resounded throughout Bianjing. Zhang Jiucheng was present, but he hadn't managed to squeeze in earlier. Now, however, he was able to get in. Standing at the front of the crowd, his excitement was beyond words. He simply shouted, "Thank you for Your Majesty's boundless grace!"

How could I not thank Your Majesty?
After this, he will naturally become the emperor's disciple!
Su Wu didn't look at much, just at the scene. As long as the scene was right, that was fine. It was an important matter. If the scene was right today, the newly established Great Yan Kingdom would be on the right track.

The imperial examination system would naturally need to be reformed in the future, and the education system would also need to be reformed, which meant the construction of schools that Wu Song began to take charge of.

But the exam system must not be changed, not for thousands of years. Only through exams can talent be selected; this is a form of fairness!
The fairest method, surpassing all known methods of talent selection.

At night, all entertainment venues in Bianjing City—brothels, teahouses, hotels, and elegant residences—were packed with people.

Even those who failed the exam received ten strings of cash from the emperor, enough for many lavish meals, or even enough for poor scholars to have enough money to go home after a few meals.

On the Lantern Festival, Bianjing City was exceptionally lively. The city was ablaze with lights and decorations, and the streets were packed with people...

That place for drinking and singing was frequented by a constant stream of scholars and literati.

The top scholar rode his horse through the streets, and countless people cheered and applauded...

At the Deer Cry Banquet, we paid our respects to our teachers and mentors, and encouraged our classmates and future generations...

The next day, the sixteenth day of the first month, the emperor summoned the top scholar.

The top scholar, having been drunk all night, was clearly not in good condition. In his nervousness, he splashed cold water on his face countless times, dressed himself neatly, and hurriedly went to the palace.

Inside the Funing Hall, the conversations were actually quite simple.

The emperor asked, "Having achieved the highest rank in the imperial examination, you will naturally be granted an official position. Would you prefer to go directly to the Hanlin Academy, or would you rather travel more throughout the country? If you choose the Hanlin Academy, then you will be appointed as an editor. If you wish to see the whole country, then you should first go to Dali and return before May to join the army on their journey to the Western Regions..."

Su Wu had actually made the answer clear.

Zhang Jiucheng was indeed very clever, replying immediately, "This student wishes to go to Dali!"

Su Wu naturally smiled: "Good, you will be the imperial envoy. The round trip to Dali will take more than three months. There are two matters to attend to. First, the court has been transferring many experienced officials to various places in Yunnan Prefecture. Go and collect information on the specific implementation of these officials' policies. Second, carefully investigate the reduction of troops in many high-ranking families in Yunnan Prefecture and report back!"

"Yes, Your Majesty!" Zhang Jiucheng was deeply moved. How could someone who had just passed the imperial examination be given such an important mission? This favor from the Emperor was truly beyond compare.

"Go..." Su Wu waved his hand and left, without saying anything intimate, encouraging, or idle.

How could Su Wu not have nurtured him?
But Su Wu kept a straight face, showing no kindness or advice whatsoever.

Su Wu even raised his hand and beckoned to Yan Qing, whispering a few words in his ear. Yan Qing bowed and went to meet him.

How could Su Wu truly entrust such an important matter to Zhang Jiucheng, a newly appointed scholar?

Zhang Jiucheng was the official imperial envoy, attracting attention. Su Wu would not truly trust anyone in Yunnan Prefecture; human nature cannot be tested, especially now that the Gao family held absolute power. He needed to keep a close eye on them. The group sent by Yan Qing was the real investigative tool that Su Wu relied on.

But Su Wu was also testing Zhang Jiucheng to see if he had any real ability. The answer sheet showed his ideas, but ability was the most important thing.

Let's see if Zhang Jiucheng, who is over thirty, can really bring back some accurate and specific information.

If Zhang Jiucheng is truly capable, then in the future, we will inevitably have to groom him for the position of prime minister.

Zhang Jiucheng left, and Li Gang came to see him.

Li Gang has been in a bit of a mess these past few days. Yan Qing sent him a whole bunch of prisoners to the Censorate's dungeon, the same kind of dungeon Su Shi used to be in.

The dungeon of the Censorate was the last vestige of dignity for the scholar-officials.

Then, Yan Qing delivered a large pile of documents, various signatures and seals, and various witnesses and physical evidence.

Li Gang, though fiercely opposed to evil, was also in a state of utter chaos.

Upon meeting the emperor and paying his respects, Li Gang said, "Your Majesty, I... am truly in a difficult position this time, and I do not know what to do..."

"What about the cheating in Hangzhou this time?" Su Wu pretended to ask.

Li Gang nodded: "That's exactly it."

"The Yan Law has not yet been revised, and this is also your task. But I think that the Yan Law in the future will mostly be in line with the old Song Law. Let me ask you a question in the Song Law: how is cheating in the imperial examinations judged?"

Su Wu looked at Li Gang with anticipation.

Li Gang, being well-versed in the law, answered earnestly: "According to the old Song Dynasty's Code, those who conceal criminals will be flogged on the buttocks and exiled to the army. Those who solicit favors will be exiled to remote and harsh military prefectures; in serious cases, they may be hanged. Those who use others as intermediaries will be flogged, tattooed, or exiled; in serious cases, they may be executed. Chuanyi..."

Su Wu raised his hand and said, "Alright, alright, is the situation serious?"

"To smuggle in" means to conceal or conceal something. "To ask for a favor" means to bribe the examiner. "To use a proxy" means to take the exam for someone else. "To pass on the message" means to relay information within the examination hall...

The laws were strict, but when cheating occurred in the imperial examinations during the Song Dynasty, the verdicts were not always so clear; the punishments were always something like dismissal from office…

The Song Dynasty is beyond description.

Li Gang replied, "Your Majesty, this situation is extremely serious."

"Isn't that obvious? The three judicial departments will conduct a joint trial and judge according to the law!" Su Wu waved his hand. He was going to kill people, many people, but it wasn't Su Wu who was going to kill.

“But…” Li Gang was clearly very hesitant.

"What?" the emperor asked.

“Your Majesty, this matter involves a wide range of people and a great many individuals. I’m afraid… I’m afraid…” Li Gang stammered.

"What do you think?" Su Wu asked.

"I think... I should first discuss this with my colleagues in the Ministry of Justice and the Court of Judicial Review, and then report to Your Majesty..." Li Gang had obviously come to inquire about the Emperor's attitude, and now he understood.

"Alright..." Su Wu didn't say anything more. He knew there was still a struggle to go on, but it wasn't a big deal...

This process is necessary!
(End of this chapter)