The Ming Dynasty's Five Hundred Years

Chapter 272: Giving in to the Talented
A sense of unease and desolation instantly washed over me.

The scene in the hall sent a chill down one's spine.

Many people looked at the tall and imposing Li Xianmu and felt a deep sense of defeat. It was always like this!

Every time there is a conflict with Li Xianmu, there are always two choices in front of me: one I don't want to choose, and the other I absolutely cannot accept. Every time, I have to endure the discomfort and hold my nose to choose the lesser of two evils.

Regardless of what Jian Yi was thinking, Xia Yuanji immediately stepped forward and said loudly, seeing the tense atmosphere in the hall, "Your Majesty, I agree with the Cabinet's proposal to draft a resolution. It is to share the Emperor's burdens and bring happiness to the people!"

Seeing that Xia Yuanji had no intention of arguing any further, the other ministers also looked rather grim. They had thought it would be a fierce battle, but who knew that he would be defeated so quickly.

"What does Jian Qing mean?" Zhu Zhanji looked at Jian Yi.

Jian Yi snapped out of his daze and reflected on his career and the events since the late Yongle period. Although he had done his best, he had been a bystander in almost every major event of the dynasty. Seeing Li Xianmu's heroic demeanor, he felt a pang of sadness and desolation. If he continued like this, wouldn't he lose his integrity in his later years?

Ultimately, this world belongs to people like Li Xianmu.

Aging happens in an instant.

Jian Yi was silent for a moment, then slowly removed the black gauze hat from his head, knelt on the ground, and said in a mournful voice: "Your subject Jian Yi is old and frail, unable to bear the weight of the state, and begs to retire and return to his hometown to live out his old age."

Li Xianmu saw the relief deep in Jian Yi's eyes. A gentleman can be deceived by his principles. Although the two sides had different paths and could not work together, Jian Yi was indeed a gentleman. Today's events had dealt a heavy blow to Jian Yi's pursuit of the Way, making him realize that he could no longer bear the heavy responsibility of the Minister of Personnel. His heart was shattered and his defenses were broken.

In the future, civil officials will inevitably engage in a life-or-death struggle with eunuchs, and Jian Yi is not capable of shouldering such a heavy responsibility!
Jian Yi's kneeling startled most of the people in the hall, who cried out in alarm, "Grand Chancellor, why have you gone to such lengths!"

Zhu Zhanji's expression was also somewhat unpleasant. He had only been on the throne for a few months, and now a veteran official who had served four reigns had resigned. If word got out, where would he put his face?

Jian Yi's move of feigning retreat to advance is surely a way of forcing the emperor into a corner.

If Zhu Zhanji hadn't always known that Jian Yi was loyal, cautious, and a rare honest man in officialdom who quietly got to work, he would have been furious by now.

Jian Yi was not stupid after all. He was just confused for a moment before, which is why he asked to retire in public. Even if he wanted to retire, he should have done so later. Now, judging from the emperor's face and expression, he must think that he was using this to force him.

A chill ran down Jian Yi's spine. He had acted too impulsively, far too impulsively. This was going to be difficult to handle.

To everyone's surprise, Li Xianmu actually stood up and spoke up for Jian Yi.

Li Xianmu calmly said, "The Grand Chancellor is highly respected and a veteran minister of four reigns. Your Majesty abandoned the world as soon as you ascended the throne. How will the world view Your Majesty? Is it because you cannot tolerate an old minister?"
This is the fault of the Grand Chancellor.

Everything has a reason. The Grand Chancellor could not have suddenly come up with this idea. Now that all the ministers of the court are in the palace, why doesn't the Grand Chancellor express his thoughts and feelings to comfort the people of the world?

This is what is meant by treating one's ruler with sincerity, and the whole world will reciprocate with sincerity!

After these words were spoken, the tense atmosphere in the hall immediately eased a bit.

Li Xianmu first exonerated the emperor, and then offered Jian Yi a way out, which was the most appropriate course of action at the time.

The two had just been at odds, but unexpectedly Li Xianmu spoke up for Jian Yi, leaving everyone in the hall somewhat silent.

Li Xianmu was truly magnanimous; his tolerance was greater than one might imagine.

As everyone recalled Li Xianmu's life since entering officialdom, they realized that the only time he truly lost his temper and went on a killing spree was when he was in Shandong, where those Shandong officials ganged up to oppress and abuse the people. Now it seemed that as long as it didn't involve matters of life and death for the people, Li Xianmu was not a violent and harsh person.

Zhu Zhanji's expression softened, and he became even more satisfied with Li Xianmu. He glanced at Jian Yi and asked, "Jian Qing, tell me, you have served four emperors and made outstanding contributions. Why are you suddenly thinking of retiring?"

"Does this mean you're dissatisfied with me because I rejected your suggestion earlier?"

"Your subject dares not, Your subject is guilty!" Jian Yi hurriedly kowtowed and apologized. He felt that it was expected that Li Xianmu would speak up for him, because although the two had different paths, he had never doubted Li Xianmu's character and he was definitely not the kind of person who would kick someone when they were down.

He was naturally grateful to Li Xianmu, but the emperor's question was right in front of him, and the occasion was inappropriate. He couldn't thank Li Xianmu, and said in a low voice, "The position of Minister of Personnel is to select talents and officials for the country. It is a vital instrument of the country. I have been trusted by Emperor Taizu, Emperor Taizong, and the late emperor. I have served in the Ministry of Personnel for nearly forty years and as Minister of Personnel for more than twenty years. I have always been conscientious and diligent and dared not slack off. I believe that I have made some achievements."

However, it now seems that I do not possess such talent. Grand Marshal Li Xianmu, who is not yet forty years old, has great abilities. Today, I have made a mistake.

The power of the cabinet to draft proposals should indeed be exercised. However, I was so confused that I almost ruined the important affairs of the nation. Since ancient times, those who assist wise and virtuous rulers have always needed virtuous, capable, and loyal ministers. Now it seems that I am not a capable minister.

Since they already know their own abilities, how can they be placed in the imperial court and hold such a position of power? What face do they have to shoulder such an important responsibility?
"After careful consideration, I hereby request Your Majesty to allow me to retire, hoping Your Majesty will grant my request."

Having said that, Jian Yi's tone had become quite firm, and he kowtowed heavily once again.

The reactions of the people in the hall this time were naturally very different from when he first asked for his remains.

Zhu Zhanji's expression didn't change; instead, he seemed somewhat helpless. He really wanted to say something to Jian Yi—

"Why are you comparing yourself to anyone? You should compare yourself to Li Xianmu. He was a super genius who could run and jump before he was a year old, finished reading the Four Books and Five Classics before he was three, and became the top scholar in the imperial examination at the age of twelve, dominating three hundred prefectures. Photographic memory is just a basic ability. Even someone as knowledgeable as Emperor Taizu would say that he could bring prosperity to the Ming Dynasty. If you compare yourself to him, aren't you just asking for trouble?"

But these words cannot be said; saying them would be too hurtful, not only to Jian Yi, but also to others.

Thinking of this, Zhu Zhanji turned his head to look at his teacher and cousin, Li Xianmu, and saw that Li Xianmu's face showed no extra expression, remaining indifferent as if it were none of his business.

The world is never short of geniuses. Zhu Zhanji himself was a genius. But any genius only realized what it meant to be outdone by others and to be like a mayfly seeing the blue sky after meeting Li Xianmu.

Li Xianmu naturally didn't care about Jian Yi's reaction. He had seen this kind of reaction many times since he was a child. This old man just couldn't withstand the blows of young people. He broke down directly. He was not even as good as his two ordinary brothers who had been hit by him for decades and now didn't care anymore.

The emperor remained silent, and the others in the hall did not dare to speak either, but everyone could see that Jian Yi was truly preparing to retire. He even subtly recommended Li Xianmu, giving the impression that he was yielding his position to a more worthy successor.

Zhu Zhanji, of course, could not agree to Jian Yi's resignation so easily. He said gently, "Jian Qing, please get up. The court cannot do without you, and I cannot do without you either."

"Your subject is old." Jian Yi wanted to say something, but Zhu Zhanji interrupted him, saying, "There are many ministers in this hall who are over sixty years old. Minister Jian says that you are old. Do you mean that I should dismiss all the ministers who are over sixty years old?"

Among the cabinet members, Yang Shiqi's eyelids trembled slightly. He was also over sixty years old, but he felt that he was still in good health and was at the age to serve the country.

Jian Yi dared not say anything more, after all, he would offend many people if he did.

He thought for a moment and slowly said, "The position of Minister of Personnel is of paramount importance. I have held this position for more than twenty years, yet I have been unable to select capable individuals for the country. I request to resign from this position and ask Your Majesty for your permission."

This time, Zhu Zhanji did not stop him. He had originally planned to change Jian Yi's position, and now that Jian Yi himself had brought it up, it was perfect.

"Alas." Zhu Zhanji sighed, "Since this is Jian Qing's repeated request, I have no choice but to agree. However, please, Jian Qing, do not say any more words of resignation. When the late emperor was alive, he often told me about your loyalty and integrity. I cannot do without you."

When Zhu Zhanji mentioned the late Emperor Zhu Gaochi, Jian Yi's eyes also reddened. He knelt on the ground again and kowtowed deeply, saying, "I misspoke earlier. I thank Your Majesty for your great kindness in not holding my mistake against me."

Zhu Zhanji and Jian Yi became acquainted here, but the atmosphere in the hall suddenly became tense. Amid the tension, there was also a sense of bewilderment, as if in a dream.

If they remembered correctly, they came here today to oppose the cabinet's proposed resolutions. However, from the very beginning, the Minister of Revenue, one of the two powerful figures, sided with the cabinet. After another debate that could not be described as heated, the Minister of Personnel directly conceded defeat.

Not only did they admit defeat, but they also refused to take responsibility, even refusing to serve as the Minister of Personnel. What exactly happened?
How did things get to this point?

To be honest, apart from Emperor Zhu Zhanji and Li Xianmu, even the cabinet members and Xia Yuanji couldn't understand how Jian Yi had suddenly become like this.

This is the difference between people; most officials just feel embarrassed in the end.

But Jian Yi is different. He is an old stubborn man, inflexible and single-minded. Once such a person decides on something, he will stick to it and seem the strongest and most unshakable. But in reality, such a person is also dangerous. Once what he insists on is truly broken, he will collapse all at once.

Li Xianmu understood Jian Yi's character, which is why he offered his assistance.

The current situation is no different from what he predicted.

The others all stared at Jian Yi. The emperor had granted Jian Yi's request to resign as Minister of Personnel, which meant that one of the most important positions in the court was now vacant!
Who will be the next Minister of Personnel?
The Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of Personnel's eyes lit up instantly. According to custom, one would be promoted from Left Vice Minister to full Minister, which was a true high-ranking official position!
In the Ming Dynasty, which did not have a prime minister system, the position of having authority over the selection, appointment, and performance evaluation of civil officials was truly second only to the emperor.

Even if the cabinet had the power to draft proposals, the Minister of Personnel could still challenge it.

Many officials in the hall who were opposed to Li Xianmu were somewhat uneasy. The position of Minister of Personnel must not fall into the hands of Li Xianmu's faction, otherwise they would truly be lawless.

"Does Minister Jian have any recommendations for the next Minister of Personnel?" Zhu Zhanji asked, as was customary, inquiring about the previous Minister's suggested candidate. Of course, this was merely a suggestion; the final decision rested with the court and the emperor.

Jian Yi was still somewhat disappointed. He turned his head and looked around the hall before saying, "I await Your Majesty's wise decision!"

He didn't recommend anyone, only lingering a little longer in Li Xianmu's position. If anyone could definitely do a better job than him, it would naturally be Li Xianmu.

But he ultimately didn't say it, still needing to consider his status. After leaving the palace today, his reputation would surely plummet, and if he recommended Li Xianmu again, he would likely be attacked.

His words weren't very effective anyway, so there was no need to take the risk.

Moreover, although Jian Yi did not recommend Li Xianmu, he also did not recommend anyone from his own faction, which was quite impartial.

Zhu Zhanji nodded, increasingly satisfied with Jian Yi's impartiality and sincerity. He already had someone in mind, but due to the traditional political habit since the Yongle era of the Ming Dynasty, he pretended to ask his ministers.

"Since all of you are here today, there is no need to convene another court meeting. Let each of you speak about your preferred candidates."

Zhu Zhanji relaxed his posture slightly, leaning back on the dragon throne to ease his slightly tired back.

Since the ministers entered the hall, the situation has been full of twists and turns in a short period of time, and even the agenda has been changed.

They opposed and opposed, and eventually their own faction's leader was defeated. Now they probably understand what Jian Yi was thinking, and many people are cursing Jian Yi for being useless.

In politics, being thick-skinned and ruthless is the key to success. To be so easily defeated that one contemplates retiring from office is utterly useless and a waste of such profound experience and prestige.

It can only be said that every cloud has a silver lining. Those ruthless political enemies all met their end by being killed and their families wiped out when they faced Li Qi and his son Li Xianmu. Isn't it a kind of wisdom that Jian Yi was able to escape unscathed?

The cabinet members exchanged glances. The cabinet was at a disadvantage in the position of Minister of Personnel. They had been cabinet ministers since the Yongle era and had never handled ministerial affairs before. It was impossible to appoint them as Minister of Personnel rashly.

The Minister of Personnel would still be selected from among the Six Ministries, either from the Left or Right Vice Ministers of the Ministry of Personnel, or from the Ministers of the other Six Ministries who would be transferred laterally.

The candidates were ranked according to their achievements, seniority, ability, and reputation, and the candidate was Xia Yuanji.

But Xia Yuanji couldn't go. He was an indispensable person in the Ming Dynasty's finances, and the Ministry of Revenue couldn't do without him. Xia Yuanji himself probably didn't want to go to the Ministry of Personnel either, as he had deep roots and a great reputation in the Ministry of Revenue.

Then there are the other people.

Yang Shiqi turned to look at Li Xianmu.

Li Xianmu is the one who best meets all the criteria.

The only concern is...

Would the emperor feel that Li Xianmu's position as Minister of Personnel was too powerful, given that Li Xianmu was already the Grand Secretary and would soon have the power to draft proposals?

If he were to become the Minister of Personnel, his power would truly rival that of the Prime Minister!

(End of this chapter)