frightfiction Chapter 293 Li Si's Preparations
Chapter 293 Li Si's Preparations
At the same time, Ying Wuyou did not sit idly by. She actively and proactively carried out her own plan, successfully winning over a large number of officials of the third, fourth, and even fifth ranks through various means. Although these officials' positions might not be prominent under the existing system of the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers, they would undoubtedly play an important role and secure a place in the future if the Three Departments and Six Ministries system were implemented.
With a smile on her face, Ying Wuyou slowly explained the rudiments of the Three Departments and Six Ministries system to the crowd. She used clear and vivid language to describe the structure and operation of this new system, and the crowd listened attentively, their eyes sparkling with curiosity and anticipation.
When Ying Wuyou finished his explanation, a gasp of amazement erupted from the crowd. Undisguised joy shone on everyone's face, as if a brand new future was unfolding before them.
"That's a brilliant idea!" someone exclaimed excitedly.
Others chimed in, excitedly discussing the new system. They shared their understanding and thoughts on it, their ideas sparking in the air.
As the discussion deepened, people became increasingly engrossed. They began to meticulously examine every detail, analyzing the relationships between different departments and their specific responsibilities. Whenever they discovered a brilliant point, they couldn't help but express their sincere admiration.
Time slipped by unnoticed. They were completely absorbed in exploring the Three Departments and Six Ministries system, finding it increasingly full of infinite possibilities with each study. Concepts that were initially somewhat vague gradually became clearer, and their minds became more and more open.
Finally, after a long period of effort, and with Ying Wuyou's patient assistance, the team completed a comprehensive review of the Three Departments and Six Ministries system. From the central government to local authorities, from decision-making to execution, every link was meticulously planned, and the responsibilities of each department were clearly defined. Now, they were full of confidence, awaiting the morning court session the following day, when they could present this carefully crafted plan to the King of Qin, bringing about a new transformation in the governance of the country.
On this day, inside the Zhangtai Palace, sunlight struggled to penetrate the heavy window frames, casting its light onto the cold bluestone floor and illuminating the varied expressions on the faces of the court officials. Today, the court would witness a fierce clash concerning the future direction of the Qin Dynasty's bureaucratic system.
Dressed in a deep purple court robe, Li Si stood tall and straight in the center of the hall, expounding in a loud voice the ingenuity of the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system: "Your Majesty, the Three Dukes are: the Chancellor, who assists the Emperor and handles national affairs; the Grand Commandant, who is in charge of military affairs and ensures the peace and security of our Great Qin territory; and the Grand Censor, who is responsible for supervising all officials and rectifying the court. The Nine Ministers each perform their duties, managing royal affairs and specific national affairs. This structure, with its checks and balances of power and each fulfilling their responsibilities, is truly the foundation of the long-term stability and security of our Great Qin."
Ying Wuyou stood quietly to the side, listening to Li Si's speech, a slight smile playing on her lips. As soon as Li Si finished speaking, she took a step forward, her posture graceful yet authoritative: "What Lord Li says seems perfect, but in reality, it harbors many drawbacks. The Three Dukes wield too much power; if they encounter someone with ill intentions, it could easily lead to a powerful minister's dictatorship, threatening the royal authority. Among the Nine Ministers, royal affairs are mixed with Qin's political affairs, blurring the lines between public and private matters, which could breed corruption and hinder the implementation of government orders."
Li Si's expression darkened, and a hint of displeasure flashed in his eyes: "Princess Jiayang, this is nothing but unfounded speculation, without any factual basis. The Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system that I proposed has been carefully considered and will surely revitalize the Qin bureaucratic system."
In the imperial court, the ministers began to whisper and discuss amongst themselves. Some nodded in agreement, finding Ying Wuyou's words to be reasonable; others showed dissatisfaction, believing she was deliberately making things difficult for Li Si.
As the court was abuzz with discussion, Wang Wan stepped steadily out of the ranks, his resolute and composed figure drawing everyone's attention. As the current prime minister, Wang Wan held a pivotal position, and his statement undoubtedly carried significant influence.
Wang Wan said with a serious expression, "Colleagues, I believe that the system of the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers is the most suitable structure for the Great Qin at present. This system can not only clearly divide the powers of each department, making the handling of government affairs more efficient and orderly, but also ensure the balance and restraint of power to the greatest extent, and prevent the occurrence of one party becoming too powerful and monopolizing the government."
As soon as Wang Wan finished speaking, the ministers who had benefited from the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system chimed in. One of them, Feng Jie, stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said, “The Prime Minister is absolutely right! The Great Qin is currently in a period of development and expansion, and stability is of paramount importance. The Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system is excellent. Moreover, any reform must be carried out gradually; rushing things will only bring chaos and turmoil. If we rashly implement a completely new bureaucratic system at this time, regardless of its merits or demerits, the manpower, resources, and time required to adapt to the new system will place a heavy burden on the country.”
Yao Jia continued, "Yes! This system is not perfect, but at least for now, it is the management method that we are most familiar with and comfortable with. For the officials in the court, there is no need to spend too much energy relearning and adapting to the new rules, so they can concentrate on their duties and serve the country. As for the general public, a stable political environment is the only way for them to live and work in peace and contentment."
As these people finished speaking, the ministers who had previously harbored doubts and wavered in their stance began to nod frequently, indicating their agreement. They secretly pondered that even if Ying Wuyou could propose a seemingly more advanced bureaucratic system, under the current circumstances, the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system was indeed the best choice to ensure a smooth transition for Qin. After all, overly radical reforms often came with enormous risks, and the slightest misstep could plunge Qin into chaos.
As Ying Wuyou listened to their eloquent explanations, her resolve began to waver. She pondered to herself, "Have I really been too hasty? Perhaps I should adopt a more prudent strategy, allowing the reform of the bureaucratic system to proceed gradually, rather than launching such a radical, large-scale transformation." However, considering the numerous drawbacks of the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system, and its excessive division of monarchical power, Ying Wuyou felt she could no longer tolerate it.
It's important to understand that the current stability is entirely due to King Ying Zheng's exceptional strength and formidable power, which deters his officials from acting recklessly. However, what if the next emperor is Qin Er Shi or Qin San Shi, and they are weak and incompetent? That could very well lead to the gradual erosion of the monarch's power, plunging the entire country into chaos and disorder.
Thinking this, Ying Wuyou clenched her fists, a resolute glint in her eyes. She knew this matter was of paramount importance, but she absolutely could not stand idly by! Even if the proposed Three Departments and Six Ministries system ultimately failed to be implemented, at least the idea had to be put on the table. Even if the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers system was temporarily retained, it wouldn't be too late to promote the Three Departments and Six Ministries system after its drawbacks were fully exposed. In short, for the long-term stability and prosperity of Qin, Ying Wuyou was determined to fight with all her might!