Daming: Brother, there is no future for monks, let's rebel

Zhao Zixuan bowed slightly and replied calmly: "Your Majesty is right. I think we can set up a special agency to supervise industry and commerce and formulate reasonable tax policies to encourage the development of industry and commerce while protecting the interests of farmers. At the same time, we should strengthen agricultural technology training, improve agricultural production efficiency, ensure food self-sufficiency, and consolidate the foundation of the country."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly upon hearing this, and was obviously quite satisfied with Zhao Zixuan's answer. He turned to look at Zhu Han and Zhu Biao, asking them what they thought. Zhu Han smiled slightly and praised: "Zhao Zixuan's views are both pragmatic and far-sighted. He is indeed the talent that the country needs."

Zhu Biao also nodded in agreement: "Zhao Zixuan's strategy takes into account the balance of agriculture, industry and commerce, which is rare. I think we can focus on cultivating such knowledgeable people to reserve strength for the country's future."

As the palace examination progressed, the candidates showed their strengths, some focused on legal system construction, while others emphasized the importance of cultural education.

Zhu Yuanzhang listened patiently and asked sharp questions from time to time to test the candidates' ability to respond.

Zhu Han and Zhu Biao carefully observed and recorded the performance of each candidate for subsequent comprehensive evaluation.

When the last candidate finished his presentation, Zhu Yuanzhang looked around at everyone and said in a deep voice: "In today's palace examination, you all showed your outstanding talents and insights. However, the great plan of the country cannot be accomplished by one person alone, and requires the concerted efforts of everyone. Now that you have passed the tests, you should cherish this opportunity. When you serve as officials in the court in the future, you must be diligent and responsible and live up to my expectations."

The palace examination lasted a whole day, and every candidate tried his best to demonstrate his knowledge and talent.

After the last candidate left, Zhu Yuanzhang looked around at all the officials and said in a deep voice: "I have an idea of ​​what will happen in today's palace examination. However, selecting talents is not a one-day job. It requires long-term observation and testing. Now that you have been selected, you should be diligent and responsible and live up to my expectations."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao hurriedly bowed and said, "Your Majesty is wise and wise. I (the sons and ministers) will follow your instructions and live up to your Majesty's high expectations."

After the palace examination, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao walked out of the hall side by side, their hearts full of emotion. Zhu Han said to Zhu Biao softly: "Your Highness, today's palace examination shows that our dynasty is full of talents and has a promising future."

Zhu Biao nodded, with hope in his eyes: "Uncle Han is right. These young talents will surely become the solid pillars of our Ming Dynasty. Biao will learn with an open mind and contribute to the Ming Dynasty together with them."

The two walked and talked, and before they knew it, they had reached the palace gate. Zhu Han stopped, turned around and said to Zhu Biao, "Your Highness, although this palace examination is over, there is still a long way to go in selecting and cultivating talents. You and I need to continue to work together to cultivate more pillars for the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Biao nodded solemnly: "Uncle Han's teachings will be remembered in my heart. I will definitely live up to your trust and devote myself to the Ming Dynasty."

The candidates bowed and saluted, expressing their determination to live up to the emperor's grace and work hard for the country. Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly and then announced the end of the palace examination. The rewards would be given after the results were announced.

After leaving the palace, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao walked side by side, full of expectations for the candidates taking the palace examination today. Zhu Han said softly, "Your Highness, the candidates in today's palace examination all performed very well, which shows that our Ming Dynasty is full of talents."

Zhu Biao nodded in agreement: "Uncle Han is right. These young talents will surely inject new vitality into the Ming Dynasty. However, how to select the most outstanding ones among them still requires us to consider carefully."

On the day of the announcement of the results, the capital was in an uproar, and the people flocked to the imperial city, looking forward to the announcement of the results of this year's imperial examination. Zhu Han and Zhu Biao also arrived at the gate of the imperial city early, ready to witness this important moment.

The sun shines on the magnificent glazed tiles of the imperial city, shining brightly, as if adding a bit of solemnity and festivity to this grand event. Zhu Han is dressed in gorgeous clothes, his face is solemn and dignified, but his eyes can hardly hide a hint of expectation and excitement. He turns to look at Zhu Biao beside him, only to see that Zhu Biao is also wearing a formal dress, with a nervous and determined look, obviously full of expectations for the list to be announced.

"Uncle Han, the results will be announced today. I wonder which talented people will stand out?" Zhu Biao asked softly, his tone showing both curiosity about the results and longing for the future.

Zhu Han smiled slightly, patted Zhu Biao on the shoulder, and said earnestly: "Don't worry, Your Highness. The results will be announced today. No matter what the result is, it is the result of these scholars' years of hard study. We just need to be fair and make sure the list is correct."

As they were talking, the gate of the imperial city slowly opened, and a team of eunuchs walked out steadily with the yellow list in their hands. The crowd immediately became excited, and they rushed forward to take a look at the list. Zhu Han and Zhu Biao, escorted by the guards, slowly approached the list.

Zhu Han's eyes were sharp as he quickly scanned the names on the list, secretly calculating the knowledge and talents of these scholars. Zhu Biao seemed even more nervous, he stared wide-eyed, carefully looking for familiar names, afraid of missing any details.

"Look, that Li Mufeng is at the top of the list!" Zhu Han pointed to the first name on the list and said to Zhu Biao. His tone was both praiseworthy and somewhat gratified. Li Mufeng's performance in the palace examination was indeed outstanding, and his insights were unique and profound, which was impressive.

Upon hearing this, Zhu Biao hurriedly came forward to take a closer look, and indeed saw Li Mufeng's name on the list. He showed a happy expression on his face and nodded repeatedly: "Li Mufeng is talented and deserves the title. I just wonder how the other talents performed?"

Zhu Han continued to scan the list, commenting on the scholars one by one: "That Zhao Zixuan is not bad either. His strategy takes into account the balance of agriculture, industry and commerce, which is rare. And this Wang Siyuan, his article is clear and his insights are profound, which should not be underestimated."

Zhu Biao nodded repeatedly and expressed his deep agreement with Zhu Han's comments.

Zhu Han had a unique vision, so his evaluation of these scholars was naturally very pertinent.

"Uncle Han is right. These scholars are the future pillars of our Ming Dynasty." Zhu Biao said with emotion, "However, how to select the most suitable talents for the court from these talents still requires us to consider carefully."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes deep: "Your Highness is right. When selecting talents, we should not only consider their knowledge and talents, but also their moral character and ambitions. We need to make comprehensive considerations to select people who can truly be used by the court."

As they were talking, there was a sudden noise. Zhu Han and Zhu Biao looked in the direction of the noise and saw a scholar in the crowd crying with joy and hugging his relatives and friends tightly. Apparently, this scholar had made it to the list and realized his dream of many years.

"Look, that's the joy of being on the list successfully." Zhu Han pointed at the scholar and said to Zhu Biao, "Although the road to the imperial examination is difficult, as long as you have a dream in your heart and persevere, you will eventually achieve success."

Zhu Biao nodded, his eyes sparkling with admiration and yearning: "Uncle Han is right. The road to the imperial examination is the only way for scholars to exchange their talents for their future. Those who can walk across this bridge are all people with perseverance. As a royal family, we should cherish this hard-earned talent resource."

As the two were talking, a middle-aged scholar hurriedly squeezed through the crowd and came to Zhu Han and Zhu Biao, bowed and said, "Your Highnesses, I am one of the successful candidates in this imperial examination. I have come to thank the court and you for your fair selection." Zhu Han smiled slightly, helped the scholar up and said, "You don't need to thank us. This is the reward you deserve for your years of hard study. The court only considers talent and moral character when selecting talents, not their background. Since you have been selected, you need to be diligent and responsible in the future and contribute your strength to the Ming Dynasty."

The scholar was moved to tears and after thanking the teacher repeatedly, he turned and left, continuing to immerse himself in the joy of success.

Zhu Han looked at the backs of the scholars leaving and said to Zhu Biao: "Your Highness, seeing the vigor and enthusiasm of these young talents, I seem to see the hope for the future of Ming Dynasty. We support the prince not only to consolidate the imperial power, but also to give these young talents a stage to display their talents."

Zhu Biao nodded in agreement: "Uncle Han is right. Father always said that whoever has talents will win the world. We must open up a wide range of talents and allow truly talented people to serve the Ming Dynasty."

As the two were talking, an eunuch hurried over and bowed to report: "Your Highnesses, His Majesty invites you to the Imperial Study as soon as possible."

Upon hearing this, Zhu Han and Zhu Biao looked at each other, then straightened their clothes and followed the eunuch to the imperial study. In the imperial study, Zhu Yuanzhang sat behind the dragon table with a solemn expression, as if he had something important to discuss.

"Your Majesty, your son (minister) pays homage to your father (your majesty)." After Zhu Han and Zhu Biao saluted, they stood respectfully aside.

Zhu Yuanzhang raised his hand slightly, motioning the two to excuse themselves from the formalities. He stared at them with deep eyes and said slowly, "I summoned you here because I have something to discuss with you. Recently, many officials in the court have been slack, government affairs have not been handled in a timely manner, and the people are complaining. I want to rectify the government and revive the administration. What good ideas do you two have?"

Zhu Han was silent for a moment, then he said, "Your Majesty, rectifying the government and revitalizing the administration of officials is an urgent matter. I think we should start with assessment and supervision, clarify the duties of officials, establish a stricter assessment mechanism, and severely punish those who neglect their duties. At the same time, we should strengthen supervision to ensure that officials behave honestly and do not dare to slack off in the slightest."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly and turned his gaze to Zhu Biao: "Biao'er, what do you think?"

Zhu Biao bowed and replied, "Father, what Uncle Han said is very true. I think that in addition to assessment and supervision, we should also focus on the selection and training of officials. We should open up a wide range of talents, not stick to one style, not stick to family background, and only select talents. At the same time, we should strengthen the education and training of officials to improve their administrative ability and moral level."

Zhu Yuanzhang heard this and a hint of approval flashed in his eyes: "What you two said hits the nail on the head. It takes time to rectify the government. We need to persevere to see results. Handi, Biaoer, this matter will be handed over to you two. You must do your best and not make any mistakes."

Zhu Han and Zhu Biao responded in unison: "I will do my best to live up to your majesty's high expectations."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly and continued, "There is another matter that you two need to pay attention to. I heard that there are people in the court who form cliques and factions for personal gain. This trend cannot be allowed to continue. You two need to investigate secretly. If you find such behavior, report it immediately. I will punish you severely."

Zhu Han and Zhu Biao looked at each other, and both saw determination in each other's eyes. Zhu Han cupped his hands and said, "Your Majesty, rest assured. I will work closely with Biaoer to investigate this matter thoroughly. I will never allow the court to be in chaos and ruin the foundation of the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Biao also bowed and said, "My nephew will do his best to assist Uncle Prince Han and jointly maintain the integrity of the government."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded with satisfaction and waved his hand, saying, "You two can leave and go and handle this matter quickly. I look forward to your good news."

Zhu Han and Zhu Biao bowed and left. After leaving the imperial study, they walked side by side in the corridor with solemn expressions. Zhu Han said softly, "Your Highness, this matter concerns the stability of the court. We must act carefully and not alert the enemy."

Zhu Biao nodded and said, "Uncle Han is right. We need to investigate secretly, collect evidence, and then expose the truth when the time is right."

Zhu Han smiled slightly and patted Zhu Biao on the shoulder: "Your Highness's determination is a blessing for the Ming Dynasty. You and I, uncle and nephew, will surely work together to overcome the difficulties and contribute to the stability of the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Han pondered for a moment and spoke slowly: "Your Highness, although it is urgent to rectify the government, it requires more strategy. We need to start with those officials who usually act flamboyantly and have a lot of public resentment, to set an example."

Zhu Biao nodded in agreement, his brows revealing a resoluteness: "Uncle Han is right. I think we can first select a few typical cases, conduct open and secret investigations, collect solid evidence, and then take them down in one fell swoop to demonstrate the court's determination to rectify the administration of officials."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes flashing with approval: "Your Highness, this is a great plan. However, we still need to be cautious and make sure that every step is legal and compliant to avoid giving others a handle."

Zhu Biao nodded, his tone more resolute: "Uncle Han, rest assured, I will act prudently and not let my father down, nor let the treacherous people take advantage of me."

As they talked, they had reached a fork in the road. Zhu Han stopped and turned to Zhu Biao and said, "Your Highness, we will have to act separately from now on. I will be responsible for checking the accounts and performance of officials starting from the Ministry of Revenue; Your Highness can start from the Ministry of Personnel and examine whether the selection and appointment of officials is reasonable."

Zhu Biao bowed and said, "Uncle Han, rest assured. I will do my best and live up to your trust. If there is any progress, I will communicate with you in time."

Zhu Han returned the gift, his tone full of trust and expectation: "Okay, then we will say goodbye and work hard on our own. When the time is right, we will discuss plans together."

After that, the two went their separate ways, each heading towards their set goals.

After Zhu Han and Zhu Biao separated, they each devoted themselves to the intense investigation work. Zhu Han first came to the Ministry of Revenue, ready to start with the accounts and uncover the secrets hidden behind the numbers.

In the hall of the Ministry of Revenue, Zhu Han sat in the main seat, with a pile of account books spread out in front of him. His face was solemn, his eyes were sharp, and he examined every expense and income one by one. At this time, an experienced official from the Ministry of Revenue hurried in, bowed and said, "Your Highness, the detailed accounts of these years that you requested have been sorted out. Please take a look."

Zhu Han nodded slightly, signaling the person in charge to hand over the account book. He took the account book and carefully read through it page by page, frowning from time to time, obviously doubting some of the accounts. After flipping through it for a while, he looked up and asked, "Why are there several large expenditures in these years without clear explanations of their use?" (End of this chapter)