The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 456 The founding hero whom even the founding emperor did not kill was actually killed by the kind-hearted Emperor Renzong.
The conflict between Liu Yan and Wei Yan in the street was temporarily resolved through the mediation of Wang Ping and Zhang Yi.

However, undercurrents were already swirling within Luoyang.

Within half a day, the news had reached the Prime Minister's residence.

Zhuge Liang sat upright at his desk and listened to the report from the secret agent.

He gently waved the feather fan in his hand, his face calm and composed, only a barely perceptible glint flashed deep in his eyes.

"Liu Weishuo...Wei Wenchang..."

Zhuge Liang pondered in a low voice, his fingertips lightly tapping the table.

"Firstly, some people rely on their age and seniority, which breeds resentment."

"One is arrogant and domineering, but his sharpness can be used."

He knew that the new dynasty was newly established and seemed to be at its peak.

In reality, the old and new forces are intertwined, and hidden dangers lurk within.

The group of meritorious officials and nobles left behind by the late emperor, such as Liu Yan.

Although he lacked great talent, he relied on his seniority and status as a member of the clan.

Holding a high position, they have hindered the implementation of new policies.

While newly promoted generals such as Wei Yan were fierce and unruly in nature.

However, it is an essential tool for pioneering and for deterring villains.

Having made up his mind, Zhuge Liang held court the following morning.

The emperor remained alone with the relevant high-ranking officials to discuss yesterday's street conflict.

"Liu Yan, the Grand Master of Ceremonies, has already done something wrong by allowing his servant to beat and injure a patrolling soldier."

"Furthermore, he uttered words of resentment and slandered the government; his actions are questionable."

Zhuge Liang's voice was not loud, but every word was clear and resonated throughout the palace.

"Even more so, at a time when the imperial court has repeatedly issued orders advocating frugality and opposing extravagance."

"Liu Yan actually rode in a carriage that exceeded the regulations for Chinese officials, parading through the city, and disregarding the laws and regulations of the court."

This trend must not be allowed to continue!

The new emperor, Liu Shan, sat on his throne, appearing slightly hesitant.
"Prime Minister, Liu Yan is, after all, a former official of the late Emperor and a member of the imperial clan. Perhaps..."

“Your Majesty,” Zhuge Liang bowed slightly, but his tone left no room for doubt.

"The law is not enforced because those in power violate it."

"As one of the Nine Ministers, Liu Yan should set an example."

“Now his conduct is disorderly, and he resents the emperor.”

"Extravagance and debauchery are punishable by multiple offenses."

"If we do not punish them severely, how can we deter other officials?"

"How can we demonstrate His Majesty's determination to reform?"

Wei Yan stood among the military officers and, upon hearing the Prime Minister's words, was overjoyed.

He couldn't help but raise his head and puff out his chest, glancing sideways at Liu Yan, whose face was pale in the civil official ranks.

Liu Yan hurriedly stepped out of the queue and prostrated himself on the ground to explain:
"Your Majesty! Prime Minister!"

"Yesterday, I had a minor disagreement with the soldiers because of the driver's recklessness."

"It was absolutely not an intentional violation of the law! As for the vehicle..."

"Your Majesty, I was confused for a moment. I beg Your Majesty and the Prime Minister to investigate!"

His voice trembled, and cold sweat beaded on his forehead.

Zhuge Liang ignored him and went straight to Liu Shan to report:
"Your Majesty, I request that you issue an edict to strip Liu Yan of his power as Grand Master of Ceremonies and Imperial Guard."

“His title of ‘Marquis of Duxiang’ is revoked, and his salary is reduced by one year.”

"Three hundred mu of his fertile land outside Luoyang were confiscated and put into public funds as a warning to others."

This suggestion caused a slight commotion in the hall.

The severity of the punishment far exceeded everyone's expectations.

Liu Yan was struck dumb and collapsed to the ground.

The Guanglu Xun's official power was stripped, his title and salary were revoked, and he was fined and his property confiscated...

This almost wiped out most of his decades of reputation and foundation in one fell swoop!
Seeing that Zhuge Liang's attitude was resolute and that every word he said made sense, Liu Shan had no choice but to grant his request.
"...so we will do as the Prime Minister says."

"Liu Yan, you should deeply reflect on your actions and never fail my expectations again."

After the court session ended, Liu Yan was distraught and staggered back to his residence.

The once bustling residence of the Grand Master of Ceremonies is now deserted.

He sat alone in his study, gazing at the desolate courtyard outside the window, his heart filled with mixed emotions.

Shame, fear, resentment...

Ultimately, it transformed into a powerful will to survive.

He knew that Zhuge Liang's words could determine his life, death, honor, and disgrace, and that he could not gain the Prime Minister's understanding.

I will surely fall into complete ruin and become just another ordinary person!

That night, Liu Yan ground ink under the lamp and spread out silk.

He wrote a long letter in an extremely humble and remorseful tone:
"Your Excellency Yan bows respectfully to the Prime Minister:"

“Yan was born with an empty nature, mediocre talent, and meager virtue.”

"In addition, the depraved behavior of indulging in drinking and other dissolute acts has led to deep-seated problems."

“Ever since the late emperor was alive, there has been much discussion and debate, which nearly destroyed the foundation of the dynasty.”

"Fortunately, Your Excellency has been able to see through my humble heart for the country."

"Endure their filth and defilement, and offer them support and salvation."

"This allowed him to continue wearing the official seal and ribbon, and to be honored with a place in the imperial court."

"Recently, while drunk and confused, he spoke incoherently and offended the law."

"Your Excellency is benevolent and lenient, and has spared his life by not subjecting him to investigation by the authorities."

"I am deeply grateful and ashamed."

"Yan must restrain himself, correct his mistakes, and do good."

"I swear to repay the country's kindness with my life; Heaven and Earth bear witness to this!"

"But if there is ultimately no way to motivate and influence him, then even if Yan is alive, how can he face the people again?"

"I beseech Your Excellency to have mercy and make a decision!"

In the letter, he went to great lengths to belittle himself, attributing his mistakes to "emptiness and mediocrity" and "indulging in drinking and debauchery."

And they linked the rumors of the past with the disaster of today.

He implied that he had been under pressure for many years in order to gain sympathy.

They further expressed their loyalty with the words "I swear to die for my country".

In reality, it implies a desire to regain a position.

After reading the book, Zhuge Liang pondered for a long time.

He knew that Liu Yan was mediocre in talent and narrow-minded, and therefore unfit for important positions.

However, since he is a member of the imperial clan, if we push him too hard, we risk alienating the other senior officials.

This is detrimental to stability.

Moreover, judging from the words in his letter, he certainly appeared fearful and remorseful.

He then wrote a reply, his words gentle, affirming that the man's "repentance was commendable."

However, "the capital is an important place, not a place for leisure," so it was decided to send him out of Luoyang.

He was appointed as the governor of Hedong, with his rank remaining at 2,000 shi.

His official position will remain unchanged.

In Zhuge Liang's view, this move was already an act of leniency.

By transferring him away from the center of power, trouble can be avoided.

They also preserved his dignity and gave him a chance to correct his mistakes.

However, when the imperial edict reached Liu Yan's residence, it was like another heavy blow!
Although Hedong is not a remote small county, it is far from the capital.

In Liu Yan's eyes, how was this any different from exile?

Once he left the Beijing social circle, Liu Yan was no longer the superior "Beijing lord".

He held the transfer order, his hands trembling.

I felt a chill run from my feet straight up to the top of my head.

"Sent out of the capital... Haha... In the end, they couldn't tolerate me..."

"Zhuge Kongming, you have such ruthless methods!"

He muttered to himself, his expression a mixture of crying and laughing.

I realize that half a lifetime of hard work and the glory of my clan have all vanished like water.

How do his former colleagues view his departure from the core of politics?
Those poor students he once looked down on are now probably laughing at him behind his back!
The intense sense of loss and humiliation caused Liu Yan's mind to gradually become unstable.

After receiving the imperial decree, he claimed illness and did not attend court.

He stayed indoors all day, drowning his sorrows in alcohol.

The servants in the mansion often saw him sitting alone in the courtyard, sometimes drinking wildly, sometimes staring blankly at the sky.

He was in a daze, muttering to himself.

I don't know what they're saying.

In just a few months, he looked ten years older and more haggard.

As the New Year approaches, everything is renewed.

According to tradition, noblewomen were required to enter the palace to pay their respects to the Empress Dowager.

Although Liu Yan's wife, Lady Hu, knew that her husband was in a bad mood recently, she believed that the proper etiquette could not be disregarded.

Moreover, Madam Hu was always dignified and intelligent, and thought that she could take advantage of this opportunity.

If she could smooth things over with her disheartened husband in front of the Empress Dowager, there might be a glimmer of hope.

She then carefully dressed herself, put on the proper attire for a noblewoman, and went to the palace to pay her respects.

Empress Dowager Yuan Ying spent her later years in the deep palace.

After the late emperor's death, I felt even more lonely.

I noticed that Ms. Hu was well-mannered and spoke elegantly.

Moreover, he was well-versed in etiquette and could not help but feel happy.

In addition, there were not many people in the palace who could talk to relieve boredom, so he politely suggested that Lady Hu stay in the palace for a few more days to keep him company.

Concerned about her husband's future, and seeing the Empress Dowager's warm welcome, Lady Hu saw it as an opportunity.

If one can gain the Empress Dowager's favor, one might be able to speak on Liu Yan's behalf.

They respectfully obeyed and served him with care.

He chatted with the Empress Dowager about everything under the sun, relieving his boredom and expressing his feelings.

She was naturally talented and spoke eloquently, which pleased the Empress Dowager.

Thus, he ended up staying in the palace for more than a month.

Liu Yan found the mansion peaceful at first, but ten days later...

When his wife did not return, anxiety began to grow in his heart.

With his demotion and exile drawing near, he sought solace in alcohol even more.

On this day, one or two old drinking buddies happened to visit, but in reality, most of them were sycophants.

Seeing that Liu Yan had lost power, his words had become less respectful.

During the meal, one of the men, quite drunk and flushed, made a reckless and joking remark:
"Brother Weishuo, your wife has been in the palace for over a month and has not returned. The Empress Dowager's favor is truly profound!"

Liu Yan was already annoyed, and frowned upon hearing this:

“My wife serves the Empress Dowager; it is a subject’s duty. What is there to say?”

The other man, his eyes still blurry with drunkenness, chuckled:

"No, no! Your wife is the most beautiful woman in Luoyang."

"Living deep within the palace for so long, hehe..."

Before the words were finished, the meaning was already sordid.

Liu Yan's heart skipped a beat, and a nameless anger rose within him, which he forcefully suppressed:

"Stop talking nonsense! This is a forbidden area of ​​the palace; how dare you presume to know anything about it?"

The man who had spoken earlier pretended to be drunk and whispered closer:

“It is not that we brothers are speaking recklessly, but Brother Weishuo, have you not heard of the old story of ‘Flying Swallow of the Han Palace’?”

"His Majesty is still young..."

"Sigh, I dare not say anything recklessly, I dare not say anything recklessly!"

After saying that, he waved his hands repeatedly, feigning fear.

These words were like a poisonous thorn, instantly piercing Liu Yan's most sensitive and vulnerable spot.

He was already paranoid due to setbacks in his career, and his self-esteem was severely damaged.

When my friend pointed this out to me, I felt a surge of excitement rush to my head.

His face flushed crimson, and he slammed his hand on the table, knocking the wine cup to the ground.

"Shut up! That's what you mean."

"Could it be that that vile woman has... has an affair with His Majesty?!"

Seeing Liu Yan's sudden change in expression, the men, now half-sober, quickly stood up.

"Brother Weishuo, please calm down! These are just drunken ramblings, don't take them seriously!"

"We'll take our leave now!"

Having said that, he left in a panic.

Liu Yan was left alone in the hall, his chest heaving violently, his mind a complete mess.

Although the friend denied it, his unfinished words and ambiguous expression were telling.

Phrases like "staying away for a long time" and "beautiful face" swirled and fermented in his mind like a curse.

The more he thought about it, the more suspicious it seemed; the more he thought about it, the more humiliated he felt.

"Yes! That must be it!"

"If there wasn't something you were trying to hide, why would you stay in the palace for over a month?"

"Hu, oh Hu, I, Liu Yan, have not yet fallen."

"You're so impatient that you'd do such a despicable thing, where does that leave my dignity!"

He felt he had grasped the truth, a mixture of betrayal and shame at his own powerlessness.

It almost devoured him.

Two days later, Lady Hu was finally allowed to leave the palace.

She felt a touch of joy in her heart.

Because of this month-long companionship, she was careful and tried her best to please him.

Finally, the Empress Dowager promised that she would speak to the Emperor at the appropriate time.

Perhaps this could persuade Liu Yan to stay in Beijing to continue his post.

She thought this was good news and that it might soothe her husband's troubled heart.

Little did she know, she had just stepped into the mansion and had not yet had a chance to recount the situation in the palace.

Liu Yan charged forward like a furious lion, his eyes bloodshot and reeking of alcohol.

He pointed at her nose and started cursing:
"You shameless woman! How dare you come back?!"

Mrs. Hu was stunned and dumbfounded by the scolding:

"Why do you say such things, my lord? I..."

"shut up!!"

Liu Yan interrupted sharply, his words extremely vicious.

"You shameless, promiscuous woman!"

"Having spent a month in the palace, you've forgotten all about home, haven't you?"

(This story originates from Cao Rui in this dimension.)

"But now that you've climbed the social ladder, you treat me, Liu Yan, like a worn-out shoe?"

"Confess to the truth what despicable things you and those people in the palace did!"

Ms. Hu was struck dumb, and instantly understood what her husband meant.

She was so angry that she trembled all over, and tears welled up in her eyes.

"Liu Weishuo! You...you're spouting nonsense!"

"I entered the palace by the Empress Dowager's decree."

"Serving her day and night, she diligently upheld the virtues of a woman, never once transgressing the slightest rule."

"You...you actually judge people with such a filthy heart!"

"Hmph! Serving the Empress Dowager?"

"That sounds so high-sounding!!"

Liu Yan sneered, his face contorted.

“If not for relying on beauty, to seduce…to seduce the lord.”

"Why did the Empress Dowager keep you here for over a month? Do you take me for a three-year-old child?!"

The pent-up grievances and anger erupted instantly, and Hu could no longer hold back, retorting through tears:

"Liu Yan! You useless scoundrel!"

"He is having a setback in his career, but instead of reflecting on his own faults, he suspects his wife!"

"I have put in a lot of effort, but I force a smile in the palace."

"We will do everything we can to win back the Emperor's favor."

"And you, living a life of debauchery and decadence, have actually fabricated such a vile charge to pin on me!"

"If you were so capable, why would you need a mere woman like me to run errands for you?"

"If you truly had backbone, why would you make me tread carefully in the palace, always having to be mindful of others' moods?!"

These words were like knives, piercing Liu Yan's sore spot.

What he couldn't stand the most was being called incompetent.

Especially being scolded to his face by his wife.

To him, Hu's explanation did not clear his name at all.

Instead, it seems to confirm the speculation that she "submitted to the palace" in exchange for benefits!
"Aaaaah! How dare you, you vile woman, insult me!"

Liu Yan completely lost his mind. In his rage, he roared at the servants on either side:
"Seize this harlot and tie her to the courtyard pillar!"

Seeing their master's fury, the servants dared not disobey and had no choice but to step forward and restrain Hu.

Hu struggled fiercely, crying and cursing incessantly.

Liu Yan then bent down, took off his official boots, and stepped forward.

He swung the sole of his shoe and slapped it hard across Hu's face!

"Clap! Clap! Clap!"

The crisp, cruel sound of striking echoed in the courtyard.

The leather soles of the shoes landed heavily on Hu's delicate face.

It quickly became red and swollen, and the corner of its mouth cracked and bled.

"I'll teach you to be a vixen! I'll teach you to be unfaithful!"

"I'll teach you to look down on me!"

Liu Yan whipped the victim frantically while cursing and screaming, appearing completely insane.

At first, Ms. Hu cried and cursed, but later her cheeks were swollen high.

The pain was excruciating, and I was filled with shame and indignation.

It couldn't even speak anymore, it could only let out mournful whimpers.

Liu Yan stopped, panting heavily, when he was completely exhausted.

He threw the blood-stained boots on the ground and looked at his wife, whose face was unrecognizable and who was on the verge of death.

A fleeting sense of pleasure crossed his mind, only to be quickly replaced by a profound emptiness and violence.

He said sternly:

"Throw this disgraceful slut out of the mansion!"

"Never again shall you set foot in the Liu family's gate!"

Madam Hu was roughly dragged out of the mansion by her servants and abandoned on the cold street.

The onlookers pointed and whispered, all covering their faces in shock.

The immense humiliation, coupled with the severe physical and mental trauma, nearly caused Ms. Hu to faint.

But she also possessed a fierce spirit, and she held on with her last breath.

He struggled to his feet, covering his swollen and painful cheeks, his eyes blazing with fury.

He went straight to the Jingzhao Prefectural Government Office and beat the drum to appeal for justice!

When the officials of the prefectural government heard that it was the wife of Liu Yan, the Grand Master of Ceremonies, who was suing her husband, they thought it was a family matter and wanted to mediate.

However, upon closer listening to the accusations, they revealed that the accusations involved "slandering the emperor" and "defaming the palace."

And the fact that he was disfigured was undeniable, which terrified him.

How dare they make a judgment on such a major case that involves the emperor's reputation?

Not daring to delay, they quickly reported the case up the chain of command until it reached the highest levels of government.

Inside the palace, Liu Shan heard the details of this matter.

In particular, when he heard that Liu Yan suspected him of having an affair with Hu Shi and that he beat his wife in anger, causing a great uproar in the city.

He was so angry that his face turned ashen and his whole body trembled.

"Absurd! Shameless!"

Liu Shan, rarely enraged, slammed his hand on the imperial desk.
"I kept Lady Hu in the palace at the Empress Dowager's behest, to relieve my mother's loneliness."

"I have only met with Lady Hu a handful of times."

"And they all had palace servants by their side, following the rules and regulations, never overstepping their bounds in the slightest?"

"This Liu Yan is despicable in mind and violent in behavior."

"How dare they slander me like this! Their hearts are wicked! Their actions deserve to be destroyed!"

Liu Yan's actions were not only spreading rumors about Liu Shan.

It also subtly implies that Liu Shan had questionable lifestyle.

This made even the usually good-tempered and kind-hearted Liu Shan unable to tolerate it any longer.

The emperor was angry and laid down millions of corpses.

While not quite to that extent, Liu Yan's actions undoubtedly violated the emperor's greatest taboo—

A good reputation.

Moreover, this matter has already spread, and if it is not severely punished...

Where is the dignity of the royal family? Where is the emperor's authority?
Zhuge Liang was also present, and his expression turned solemn upon hearing this.

His original intention was merely to suppress Liu Yan's arrogance and transfer him away from the capital to quell the situation.

I never imagined this person would be so despicable, causing such a shocking incident that insulted the emperor.

At this moment, no one could protect Liu Yan.

In his fury, Liu Shan, without allowing any room for argument, issued an edict directly:
"Liu Yan, the former Grand Master of Ceremonies, slandered the emperor and his father while serving as a subject."

"As a husband, he was tyrannical towards his wife." "He filthily listened to the emperor's words and brought disgrace upon the palace."

"The social impact is extremely negative; only by executing him can we uphold discipline and quell public opinion!"

"The authorities are hereby ordered to arrest him immediately, verify his identity, and execute him in the marketplace!"

"His family property was confiscated, and his relatives were exiled!"

This edict caused a stir in the court and among the people.

Although some felt the punishment was too harsh, Liu Yan's actions had indeed severed his ties with heaven, earth, the emperor, and his family.

No one dared to plead for him.

Several days later, Liu Yan was escorted to the execution ground.

Once a high-ranking official, he is now disheveled and shackled.

Only now did he perhaps realize the truth.

His own suspicion, violence, and pathetic pride ultimately led him to his doom.

As the blade flashed, a head rolled to the ground.

This tragedy, which began with street clashes, eventually became entangled in imperial power, palace intrigue, and family ethics.

It ended with a blood-red period.

The people of Luoyang continued to discuss this matter during their leisure time, sighing with regret.

As a result of this incident, the arrogance of the meritorious officials and nobles in the imperial court was greatly diminished.

Prime Minister Zhuge Liang's efforts to reform the bureaucracy and strengthen imperial power were thus able to proceed more smoothly.

However, the position of Prefect of Hedong remained vacant, awaiting a new appointee.

Liu Yan's name gradually became a cautionary tale in historical records.

It tells the story of how humanity is distorted in the vortex of power, and the ironclad rule that the dignity of the emperor cannot be violated.

As for Liu Yan,
Thus, he became the first founding hero to be executed by the new emperor Liu Shan.

……

Liu Yan was executed, and his body was left in the marketplace.

His family property was confiscated, and his relatives were exiled to the frontier.

The commotion caused by this incident in Luoyang lasted for a long time.

The once bustling residence of the Guanglu Xun is now closed off.

The seal was affixed at an angle, creating a desolate and bleak atmosphere.

The common people in the city felt that Liu Yan deserved his punishment.

However, the fact that the emperor executed nine high-ranking officials over this family matter cannot help but evoke a chilling feeling.

Within the deep palace,

When Empress Dowager Yuan Ying heard that Liu Yan had been executed and Hu Shi had been banished, she felt a pang of sorrow.

She recalled how gentle, obedient, and understanding Lady Hu was when she was in the palace.

I pity him even more for suffering such a great humiliation and misfortune for no reason.

He then sighed softly and said to the lady-in-waiting beside him:

"The Hu family is innocent, and this great calamity is entirely Liu Yan's fault."

"By imperial decree, Lady Hu is summoned to the palace for an audience."

The imperial edict was issued, and within half a day, Lady Hu was summoned to the palace.

She was dressed in plain clothes and without makeup.

Even with the ointment applied, faint traces of bruising and swelling are still visible on her once beautiful face.

The laceration at the corner of his mouth was particularly shocking.

She walked with a slight limp, her head bowed and eyes downcast.

She walked up to the Empress Dowager's seat and gracefully bowed.

The voice was slightly hoarse and trembling:

"This sinful woman, Hu, kowtows to Your Majesty the Empress Dowager, wishing Your Majesty a long and peaceful life."

Seeing her like this, Yuan Ying felt a pang of sorrow and quickly got up.

He personally went forward to help her up and pulled her to sit down beside him.

He reached out his well-maintained hand and gently stroked her injured cheek, his eyes filled with pity.

"...Good child, get up quickly."

"Look at that beautiful face, how could that heartless, short-lived man have beaten it like this..."

"What a crime!"

His tone was filled with heartache and indignation.

Lady Hu felt the warmth from the Empress Dowager's palm and heard these words of concern.

The pent-up grievances and fear that had been suppressed for days burst forth in an instant, and tears rolled down like pearls from a broken string.

She forced herself to hold back her tears, only her shoulders trembled slightly.

Yuan Ying took out a silk handkerchief to wipe away her tears and said softly:
"Don't cry, don't cry."

"With me here, no one will dare to bully you anymore."

"From now on, you will stay in the palace and accompany me, is that alright?"

Lady Hu raised her tearful eyes and saw that the Empress Dowager's gaze was sincere and not just empty words of comfort.

Having survived this life-or-death ordeal, she was already disheartened and had no more attachment to the world outside the palace.

Staying in the palace would allow one to avoid worldly gossip and scorn, and also provide a place to settle down and make a living.

They were even more grateful for the Empress Dowager's kindness.

He then bowed down again, choking back tears, and said:
"The Empress Dowager Meng did not abandon me and took me in out of compassion. I am deeply grateful!"

"I wish to remain in the palace to serve Your Majesty and repay Your Majesty's grace!"

Yuan Ying was overjoyed upon hearing this and repeatedly said:

"Good, good! This suits my taste perfectly!"

He immediately ordered his attendants, "Convey my imperial decree: bestow upon Lady Hu one hundred bolts of brocade, one bushel of pearls, and one hundred taels of gold."

"Temporarily residing in Huicao Palace, with a rank equivalent to that of a Liangdi (a concubine rank)

“All supplies were provided in accordance with the regulations of the palace.”

Just then, a palace attendant announced that His Majesty had come to pay his respects.

Liu Shan, dressed in ordinary clothes, entered the palace.

Upon seeing Ms. Hu here, with her face damaged, he was slightly taken aback.

He then bowed to the Empress Dowager:
"My sons and ministers see their mother and queen."

Yuan Ying asked Madam Hu to retreat behind the screen to rest for the time being, and then said to Liu Shan:

"...The emperor has arrived."

"Just now I was talking to Madam Hu. This child is truly pitiful."

Liu Shan sat down beside his mother, his expression slightly complicated, and sighed:
"...The Empress Dowager's loving heart."

"However, I had no choice but to do what I did regarding Liu Yan."

"His behavior was too appalling; he slandered his father and beat his wife so badly she was injured."

"This has caused a great uproar in the city. If it is not dealt with decisively, how will the royal family maintain its dignity?"

"Where are the laws and regulations of the imperial court?"

Yuan Ying looked at her son with deep eyes and slowly said:

“My son has his reasons for doing this.”

"But... since the founding of our Great Han Dynasty, is this the first time that Liu Yan has executed one of the Nine Ministers for the crime of domestic violence?"

There was a subtle hint of inquiry in her words.

She knew her son well; he was known for his kindness and benevolence.

They would never have resorted to such ruthless measures unless they had touched a raw nerve.

I'm afraid that Liu Yan's death...

Behind this was also the consideration of using the opportunity to deter those imperial nobles who relied on their seniority and became increasingly arrogant.

As a result of this incident, the arrogance of the powerful and influential people in the capital has indeed been greatly curbed.

Liu Shan was silent for a moment, then said:

"...Your Majesty, please understand."

"Extraordinary times call for extraordinary measures."

"We cannot allow a few parasites to ruin the foundation that Father and the Prime Minister have worked so hard to build."

Upon hearing this, a hint of relief flashed in Yuan Ying's eyes, and she nodded, saying:
“My son has indeed grown up, and his thoughts are becoming more comprehensive.”

Liu Shan bowed slightly:

"Your subject is dull-witted and still needs to learn."

"Many matters also rely on the teachings of the Prime Minister."

Mentioning Li Yi, Yuan Ying seemed to recall something and said:
"Last year should have been your father's sixtieth birthday."

"Unfortunately, the late emperor passed away, and during the period of national mourning, everything was kept simple, so the birthday banquet could not be held."

"Sixty is the second time in a cycle of life, which is of great significance."

"Moreover, your father is a pillar of the country, and this birthday celebration should not be taken lightly, both in public and private matters."

Liu Shan immediately understood and said seriously:

"Your Majesty is absolutely right! I have been thinking about this matter as well."

"The mourning period for the Emperor has passed, and a grand celebration should be held for the Prime Minister."

"To demonstrate his merits and to express my heart!"

"I will hold an unprecedented birthday banquet so that the whole world will know of the honor and glory of my father, the Prime Minister!"

Yuan Ying nodded, her tone becoming increasingly gentle:
"...That would be best."

“When your father passes away, you will treat him as a second father.”

"He taught with great care and assisted in governing the country."

"Moreover, he is also your uncle, and my sister is his legal wife."

"The Liu, Li, and Yuan families are all related by blood, and are even closer than family."

"We should be of one mind and one heart to support the Han Dynasty."

"Your son will remember your mother's teachings."

Liu Shan solemnly agreed, "I will go to the Prime Minister's residence in person to inform the Prime Minister of this matter, as a sign of my sincerity."

After saying this, Liu Shan got up to take his leave.

After leaving the palace, the entourage went straight to the Prime Minister's residence.

at the same time,

Deep within the Prime Minister's residence, in a quiet study.

Lee Ik, the former prime minister who is now over sixty and semi-retired from court life.

He was sitting upright in a grand chair, holding a cup of tea, gently blowing on the floating leaves.

His hair and beard were all white, but his face was ruddy.

His eyes were deep and profound, like an ancient well, revealing a wisdom and composure born of experience and understanding of the world.

It's as if everything in the world is under his control.

Zhuge Liang sat at the lower end, his posture respectful.

He was reporting to Li Yi in detail about recent affairs in the court, especially the ins and outs and subsequent impact of the Liu Yan case.

"...Yan is so arrogant and reckless as to fabricate the Emperor's reputation; he is only courting his own destruction."

After Zhuge Liang finished his report, he gently waved his feather fan.

His tone carried a hint of regret and helplessness.

“The street clashes can be seen as the recklessness of the armed men.”

"However, if the scandal reaches the palace and touches the emperor's sore spot, even a god cannot save him."

Li Yi took a small sip of tea, set down the teacup, and spoke in a calm, unwavering voice:
"Liu Weishuo is ambitious but lacks talent, and is easily swayed by pride."

"It is not surprising that this is the outcome."

"His death was like an autumn leaf falling, insignificant."

"What I am more concerned about is Luoyang City."

"How did those nobles and elders like him react to this incident?"

Zhuge Liang replied:
"Your Excellency, according to our observations, most people are terrified and have become much more restrained in their behavior."

"His Majesty is known for his benevolence, yet this time he has gone so far as to execute founding fathers and meritorious officials of the Lingyan Pavilion to set an example."

"Their determination and methods are enough to serve as a wake-up call to those who harbor illusions."

"Ah."

Li Yi nodded slightly, his thin fingers tapping lightly on the arm of the chair.

“These sons of noble families in the capital rely on their fathers’ merits.”

"They became increasingly arrogant and extravagant."

"They have even oppressed the good and have become termites in the body of the empire."

"However, if the court acts too hastily or harshly, it may discourage meritorious officials and cause the people to lose heart."

"It's not easy to strike the right balance here."

Zhuge Liang listened intently, knowing that his teacher was testing him and also imparting the principles of governance.

He leaned forward slightly, humbly seeking guidance:

"...Students also often pondered this matter."

"These meritorious officials and veterans are deeply entrenched, and a single move from them can have far-reaching consequences."

"May I ask, Your Excellency, is this what you mean by this kind of person?"

"Is there really no cure, and we can only let it be?"

Upon hearing this, a glint flashed in Li Yi's eyes, but he quickly regained his composure.

He slowly shook his head, his voice deep and powerful:
"Kongming, from ancient times to the present, throughout all dynasties."

"There has never been a good solution to these problems."

Do you understand the reason behind this?

He paused, and before Zhuge Liang could answer, he continued:
"The world is bustling, all for profit; the world is bustling, all for gain."

"This is the wise teaching of Sima Qian."

"The reason why people can gather together to pursue a great cause lies in the concept of 'profit'."

"The soldiers risk their lives so that their wives and children may be rewarded and protected."

"Civil officials offer advice in order to leave their mark on history and bring honor to their families."

"People will only fight tirelessly to defend their own and their family's interests."

His gaze fell upon Zhuge Liang with unwavering intensity, and he spoke earnestly:
"If our policies touch upon or even deprive them of their fundamental interests."

"Then, former allies can turn into enemies in an instant."

"Water can carry a boat, and it can also overturn it."

“This ‘water’ represents the surging power of the world and the very foundation upon which people’s hearts are bound.”

Li Yi looked meaningfully at his most outstanding student and successor, and slowly asked:

"Now, do you understand the rules that govern how this world works better?"

Zhuge Liang pondered for a long time, held his feather fan to his chest, and solemnly replied:
"The Prime Minister's teachings were like a sudden awakening."

“Students have previously focused too much on law and morality, and their understanding of the essence of ‘profit’ is still shallow.”

"Now it seems that governing a country is like cooking a small fish; you need to use a strong fire to remove its fishy smell and punish the wicked."

"It also requires a slow and careful process to balance the interests of all parties."

"More importantly, one must know how to harmonize the five flavors and manage people's hearts."

"Only in this way can it become a delicious dish."

"The student... understands a little bit now."

A barely perceptible look of satisfaction appeared on Li Yi's face as he was about to speak again.

Suddenly, a servant outside the door announced loudly:
"Your Majesty has arrived——"

Zhuge Liang immediately stood up, straightened his clothes, and prepared to greet the emperor.

Because Li Yi received the honor of "Ten Bestowments," he was granted special permission to be exempt from grand ceremonies on certain occasions in the palace.

At this moment, being in his own residence, there was no need to get up; he could simply sit comfortably.

Liu Shan entered the study and, seeing Li Yi seated, first bowed and said:
"...May the Prime Minister be well."

Then he nodded to Zhuge Liang.

Li Yi bowed slightly in return.

"Your Majesty's personal visit to my humble abode has prevented me from welcoming you from afar. Please forgive me."

"May I ask what brings Your Majesty here?"

Liu Shan sat down opposite Li Yi, his expression earnest, and explained his purpose:
"Father, last year was supposed to be your sixtieth birthday celebration."

"Unfortunately, my father has passed away. During the period of national mourning, everything should be kept simple."

"I feel truly ashamed that the birthday banquet could not be held."

"Now that the mourning period has passed, I will discuss this with the Empress Dowager."

"We must hold a grand birthday celebration for our Prime Minister to commemorate his sixtieth birthday and to honor his meritorious service in protecting the emperor!"

"My mind is made up. This must be done in an unprecedentedly grand manner, so that the whole world may celebrate!"

Zhuge Liang immediately chimed in:
"Your Majesty is wise! The Prime Minister's achievements are unparalleled, and his virtue matches that of Heaven and Earth."

"A sixtieth birthday should be celebrated by the whole world in a grand and spectacular way!"

"This is also the glory of the imperial court and the expectation of the people!"

After hearing this, Li Yi stroked his long beard and remained silent in contemplation.

The study fell silent for a moment.

Liu Shan and Zhuge Liang both held their breath, waiting for his response.

After a while,

Li Yifang spoke slowly, his voice calm yet carrying an undeniable weight:
"I am deeply grateful for the kindness shown by Your Majesty and the Empress Dowager."

"Since Your Majesty is willing..."

"Very well, then we shall proceed as Your Majesty wishes."

Liu Shan and Zhuge Liang had just breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this when Li Yi abruptly changed the subject, saying:
"On this occasion of your birthday celebration, I also intend to announce something to Your Majesty and the court."

With this remark,
Liu Shan and Zhuge Liang were both taken aback and exchanged a glance.

They both saw the doubt and surprise in each other's eyes.

Zhuge Liang tentatively asked:

"I wonder what Your Excellency wishes to announce?"

Li Yi's gaze swept over the two men, finally settling on Zhuge Liang, his tone becoming exceptionally deep:

"Kongming, do you know that when I resigned from the position of prime minister, I handed it over to you?"

"Why is the position of Grand Marshal and General-in-Chief retained alone, commanding all the troops in the land?"

Zhuge Liang's heart skipped a beat, and he replied respectfully:

"Your Excellency's profound meaning is beyond my comprehension."

"It must be to stabilize the court and proceed gradually."

Li Yi nodded slightly:

"……good."

"Military and political power is a matter of national importance and should not be lightly granted or easily changed."

"I will retain this position, firstly to deter both internal and external forces and to ensure a smooth transition of the new policies."

"Secondly..."

His gaze was sharp as he stared directly at Zhuge Liang.

"This is also a way to observe and assess you."

"Let's see if you truly possess the ability to command the nation's armies and strategize effectively."

"Whether they are truly capable of shouldering this heavy responsibility of protecting the country."

Zhuge Liang immediately bowed:
"The student is not very knowledgeable and has been working with utmost caution for many years."

"Fearing I might fail the high expectations of the Prime Minister and the late Emperor, I dare not slacken in the slightest, much less covet military power..."

Li Yi waved his hand, interrupting him, his tone resolute:

"...No need to be so modest."

"Over the years, you have governed the country internally and pacified the southern barbarians externally."

"The campaign against Wei was a complete success, showcasing his talent and ability in military and political affairs, which was recognized by both the court and the public."

"In my opinion, he is already capable of undertaking great responsibilities!"

"Now is the time."

He paused, then spoke clearly, word by word:
"On the occasion of this birthday banquet, I hereby announce to everyone—"

"I will return the seal and military tally of the Grand Marshal and General to you, Zhuge Liang!"

"From this day forward, the deployment of troops throughout the land will be decided by your word, Kongming!"

"It's time for this old man... to truly enjoy his retirement."

"Master Xiang!"

"Father!"

Liu Shan and Zhuge Liang exclaimed almost simultaneously, their faces filled with disbelief and shock!
Liu Shan never expected that Li Yi would appear at this moment.

In this way, they proposed to return supreme military power!
This means that the political landscape will undergo a fundamental change, and Zhuge Liang's power will reach its zenith!

Zhuge Liang was deeply moved.

He was well aware of the immense power and responsibility represented by the position of Grand Marshal and General.

Although Li Yi has been semi-retired for many years, his military power has always been a pillar of stability.

It's also like an invisible shackle.

Now that the teacher has taken the initiative to return it, is it a sign of complete trust?

Or is it a more in-depth examination?

Or perhaps... the "things" he wanted to announce at the birthday banquet.

Are there other hidden secrets?

Zhuge Liang was always known for his intelligence, but in front of Prime Minister Li...

He seemed as naive as a child, and could never fathom what was going on in the mind of this man who had held immense power for most of his life.

The study was silent for a moment.

The only sounds were the rustling of bamboo leaves in the breeze outside the window and the slightly hurried breathing of the three people.

The joy of holding a belated birthday banquet was instantly overshadowed by this sudden announcement of the power transition, casting a complex and somber shadow over the event.

The future political landscape of the Han Dynasty will be determined by Li Yi's decision.

Sailing towards a completely new and unknown route.

(End of this chapter)