Another familiar figure appeared before his eyes!
It was uncertain who was stronger or weaker compared to the historical Heshen. (TLN: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heshen)
Lin Beifan couldn’t help but laugh: “What a good name, I really like your name! Among all the scholars and warriors of the court, as long as you have the courage to stand up and solve problems for me, I will give you a chance!”
Heshen was overjoyed and bowed: “Thank you, Your Majesty!”
Lin Beifan asked loudly: “I ask you, if those merchants defy the decree and do not comply, what should be done?”
“Your Majesty, in times of chaos, strict laws must be applied!”
Heshen said loudly: “At this moment of national crisis, if they defy the decree and continue to engage in speculation and hoarding, they are traitors to the country. In my opinion… they should be executed!”
As he spoke, the treasured sword at his waist let out a crisp ring, its chilling gleam reflecting in the court.
“Well said!”
Lin Beifan once again asked loudly, “I ask you, what should be done if those merchants show no respect for the court?”
“Your Majesty.”
Heshen spoke loudly, “to show no respect for the court is to have no reverence in their hearts! Without reverence, they dare to take risks with their bodies, bringing disaster to the nation and suffering to the people! A great war is on the horizon, and the country must not fall into chaos. We should prevent trouble before it happens. Hence, I believe… they should be executed!”
The treasured sword rang out once more, its bloodthirsty light casting a chilling presence that struck cold into one’s heart.
Lin Beifan spoke loudly again, “I ask you once more, what should be done if those merchants threaten me, threaten the court?”
“Your Majesty.”
Heshen declared loudly, “If they dare to threaten Your Majesty, threaten the court; they are nothing but treacherous officials and rebels! In the case of treacherous officials and rebels, I believe there is nothing to discuss… execute them!”
The treasured sword clanged sharply as it was drawn from its scabbard, its blade shimmering with a cold light so intense that it was hard to look at directly.
“Such a fierce murderous aura! But I, I like this kind of murderous aura, I like people like you!”
Lin Beifan clapped his hands and laughed: “Therefore, I entrust this matter to you. Do not disappoint me! Once you succeed, the position of Minister of Revenue shall be yours!”
Heshen was overjoyed: “Thank you, Your Majesty, for your great kindness. Your servant will not let you down!”
“I grant you special permission to select a hundred men from the Imperial Guard to carry out this task! Anyone who dares to obstruct you shall be killed without mercy!”
Lin Beifan waved his hand: “Go now, I await your good news!”
“Yes, Your Majesty!” Heshen said loudly.
Following that, Heshen withdrew, gathered the guards he was familiar with, and set out to execute Lin Beifan’s orders to round up the speculators and hoarders and throw them into the great prison.
Should there be any who resist, kill them directly!!!
…..
In an instant, the Capital City was filled with a bloody storm.
Perhaps even the merchants could not have imagined that this young Emperor, who had ascended to the throne only a few days ago, would dare to act against them without any regard for the powerful forces behind them.
After only a moment’s hesitation, many heads rolled to the ground.
Their goods were seized and added to the national treasury; a portion was sold off at fair prices, while the rest became strategic supplies for resisting the forces of the Mo Kingdom.
The common people were both applauding and very worried.
The Mo Kingdom’s army was about to strike, and at this critical juncture, their young Emperor dared to offend the various influential noble families. Was he intentionally courting death?
Please just die alone if you’re going to die; don’t drag us down with you.
Many knowledgeable people witnessing this scene shook their heads and sighed.
“He has managed to offend everyone who should not be offended!”
“If this continues, the Xia Kingdom is truly doomed!”
“What sin has the Xia Kingdom committed to be burdened with such a foolish ruler?”
“I dare to bet that the Xia Kingdom won’t last two months!”
Many people have fled in a hurry.
Because in the Xia Kingdom, they could see no hope at all.
After another foolish policy plunged the nation into an abyss, Prime Minister Xiao Guoliang and Grand General Chai Yulang were extremely anxious. They requested an audience with the emperor to persuade Lin Beifan.
“Uncles, what brings you here?” Lin Beifan asked calmly as he sipped his tea.
Prime Minister Xiao Guoliang said urgently, “Your Majesty, please revoke your order quickly. Those merchants cannot be killed, their goods cannot be seized! They have the backing of various noble families, with deep roots that we cannot afford to provoke! Once they become angered, the downfall of our nation and our homes is not far off!”
“Yes, Your Majesty, we have already provoked the Mo Kingdom, we cannot afford to offend other powerful enemies. It is still not too late to stop now!” Grand General Chai Yulang also advised.
Lin Beifan waved his hand dismissively, “Enough, I have made up my mind! These merchants who profit from the chaos of war, they must be killed to appease my anger! Once they are eliminated, domestic stability will naturally follow!”
“But they really cannot be offended, it could lead to the downfall of the nation…”
Lin Beifan shouted loudly, “You must remember, the Xia Kingdom will never perish. On the contrary, under my leadership, it will thrive and grow even stronger! If there’s nothing else, you may all leave!”
“Your Majesty…”
“I am tired, you all may leave now.”
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