Chapter 3, First Battle Achieved Success

He has spoken, he has said much. Yang Jisi noticed that Yang Yiqing's expression had improved significantly, and he became bolder in his speech. He said that he wanted his father to submit a memorial, without mentioning the matter of Nie Nengqian, but only to discuss 'mutual correction of the examination system' and 'reform of the Hanlin Academy', adding that reforms must be carried out with a vigorous and resolute approach in order to achieve the effects of a wise ruler and a prosperous era

At this moment, a relatively young official spoke up: "Yang Yiqing seems to be making a mountain out of a molehill regarding this matter, but he may not necessarily intend to provoke a dispute. It is better for us to avoid his sharpness; after all, in the grand discussions, if it were not for the strong support of Elder Yang, we would likely struggle to prevail against Yang Tinghe and his ilk." The speaker was none other than Huo Tao, a key figure in the discussions.

After the court session, a group of people naturally gathered at Zhang Cong's residence, while Zhang Cong anxiously paced back and forth.

Huo Tao and Fang Xianfu were both disciples of the Wang school, and they indeed had some knowledge of Wang Yangming's affairs, causing them to lower their heads in contemplation

However, one could only hear Peng Yue laughing out loud from behind

Upon hearing this, Huo Tao could not help but feel suspicious. He was a successful candidate from the late Zhengde period, yet he was unaware of this matter. Not only him, but Zhang Cong, who was also a successful candidate from the late Zhengde period, was similarly uninformed.

As their gazes met, Ziling felt even more embarrassed, her small mouth pouting higher: "Dead Shiyun, stinky Shiyun, I'm really going to get angry!"

At this moment, Fang Xianfu leisurely stood up and said: "Wei is indeed confused. Not to mention that the merits of the rituals and discussions rightfully belong to us, even if Yang Yiqing is involved, has he ever been free of personal motives? He has gauged the intentions of the sovereign and knows that Yang Tinghe and others are tyrannical and will undoubtedly fail. In order to return to the political arena, he has thus aligned himself with us. Moreover, his personal enmity with Yang Tinghe, though not explicitly stated, is evident in his heart!"

Emperor Jiajing, Zhu Houzong, had a somewhat grim expression. He raised his head to look at Yang Yiqing, who appeared as calm as still water, as if the events that had just transpired were of no concern to him

"Who are you calling a silly girl? You are the silly one." Ziling seemed genuinely a bit angry, reaching out her hand as if to hit Peng Yue. Peng Yue hurriedly grabbed her wrist and chuckled, "Sister Ling'er, I beg for mercy."

"Chengfu, if Master Zhang retires, what are we supposed to do?" Huo Tao was becoming somewhat impatient.

The crowd, with expressions of complexity, was about to leave. At that moment, an unusual voice echoed in the court: "I have a memorial to present." The speaker was Zhang Cong, a Grand Secretary of the Cabinet.

Ziling could no longer suppress her curiosity, immediately changing her expression and smiling as she said: "Brother Yun, just tell me!" Her face flushed, and she even began to act coy.

Of course, it's nothing. Just now... didn't you already see it? Haha.

Get up. The slightly petulant voice of Ziling rang in my ears

Peng Yue couldn't help but chuckle twice to ease the awkwardness

Peng Yue opened his eyes, glanced at Zi Ling, and then closed his eyes again

"Father, did the Emperor reproach you today?" Yang Jisi asked cautiously

Your Majesty, I have a memorial to present

It was still Huang Zongming, the Minister of Rites, who first broke the silence: "In the current situation, the only strategy is to retreat in order to advance. Since Lord Zhang has already proposed his resignation, we should continue to submit our memorials. In my view... His Majesty will ultimately agree."

Peng Yue feigned indifference, resting his head on his hand, with one leg crossed over the other, exuding an air of leisurely contentment

Poetry Rhythm? This time, it was Yang Yiqing who was surprised. In fact, he remembered this book boy, who was bought when he was young, intending for him to accompany Yang Jisi in his studies, and since they were of similar age, he could also serve as a playmate. Naming him "Poetry Rhythm" was truly a reflection of Yang Jisi's expectations and hopes. However, Yang Jisi did not enjoy poetry and was not attuned to rhythm, which greatly disappointed Yang Yiqing. Fortunately, the two had a good relationship, and given that he had saved Yang Jisi's life last time, Yang Yiqing had a favorable impression of this book boy and secretly harbored a sense of gratitude. But upon further thought, although Jisi often praised Poetry Rhythm for being clever and quick-witted, and he himself could see that this book boy exhibited considerable intelligence in his words and actions, he could never have imagined that at such a young age, he could actually discern his thoughts.

Yang Jisi's face flushed; being devoid of any scheming thoughts, he confided in Yang Yiqing: "I am unworthy, these words were taught to me by the essence of poetry."

Yang Yiqing was taken aback, partly due to the overlooked voice of Jisi beside him, and partly because Jisi suddenly posed such a question, which precisely struck at his own thoughts. "Where did you hear such rumors? How can one believe such words so easily?" Yang Yiqing feigned calmness

"Did that poetic charm say anything else to you?" Yang Yiqing's curiosity prompted him to ask Yang Jisi for clarification, although he did not expect to receive an even more affirmative response.

"I never said that only you should present the memorial. With so many officials under your command, can't you mobilize them?" Zhang Cong's tone was clearly filled with anger and mockery

"What is it?" Zhu Houzhong said with a hint of anger

Seated in the main position was a man dressed in formal attire, appearing to be in his fifties, with a slightly aged demeanor. This man was none other than Zhang Cong, a Grand Secretary of the Cabinet: "Yang Yiqing actually dares to openly oppose me, and all for a mere minor official of the Jinyiwei. It truly infuriates me!"

Present it

Fang Xianfu murmured softly: "I was originally a successful candidate in the Hongzhi era, and I have heard much about this. Yang Tinghe was an old official of the Eastern Palace during the Zhengde period, while Yang Yiqing did not belong to this faction; he was able to enter the capital due to the removal of Liu Jin and became close to the eunuchs such as Zhang Yong. The two had conflicts in both governance and personnel matters. Master Yangming was originally a disciple of Yang Yiqing, but he never entered the capital, all thanks to Yang Tinghe. In the early years of the Jiajing era, when Yang Tinghe was in power, Yang Yiqing was unable to return to the political arena, which probably had a great deal to do with Yang Tinghe." After saying this, he cast a disdainful glance at Huo Tao. Master Yangming was originally a disciple of Yang Yiqing, but he never entered the capital, all thanks to Yang Tinghe. In the early years of the Jiajing era, when Yang Tinghe was in power, Yang Yiqing was unable to return to the political arena, which probably had a great deal to do with Yang Tinghe." After saying this, he cast a disdainful glance at Huo Tao.

Ziling could not conceal her astonishment, appearing both incredulous and utterly amazed, her mouth agape in shock, occasionally casting her gaze towards Peng Yue on the bed

Yang Jisi could not help but laugh: "Let me tell you, haha." He then pulled Ziling to the side of the table and recounted the entire story to her in detail

Father, I have prepared a bowl of ginseng soup for you. It is late at night, so you should rest early." As he spoke, Yang Jisi slowly walked in

Suddenly, a servant rushed into the room and said: "Shiyun, the master is calling for you in the study."

"No, dismiss the court!" After saying this, Zhu Houzong flicked his sleeve and turned to leave

"Father, Shiyun is not just a little book boy..." Yang Jisi looked at Yang Yiqing with a hint of reproach: "Shiyun is my lifesaver, my... friend..."

Hmm..." Yang Jisi replied softly, holding half a bowl of ginseng soup as he stepped out slowly. Although he knew that what he had just said would cause Yang Yiqing's displeasure, he still spoke up, for in his heart, Shiyun was indeed not just a servant, but a friend, especially after she had saved his life.

This statement left Yang Yiqing quite shaken; he had not expected that his painstaking deliberations throughout the night would be so easily unraveled by a mere young scribe. Moreover, the matter of the memorial truly enlightened him, as it not only demonstrated a show of weakness to the emperor but also served to rectify past mistakes. However, he was unwilling to admit it, saying, "Absurd, a mere young scribe thinks he can discuss matters of state."

No matter what, this time we must confront Yang Yiqing head-on. Huo Tao, you shall present a memorial tomorrow to impeach Yang Yiqing. I refuse to believe that after several years of foundation, we cannot bring down a single Yang Yiqing!

At the moment when Zhang Cong was filled with worry, Yang Yiqing's residence was filled with joy and celebration

Sigh... Yang Yiqing let out a helpless sigh, yet a faint smile inadvertently appeared at the corner of his mouth. "Alright, Si'er, you may go down now."

Moreover, Gui E is a disciple of Yang Yiqing. He was initially appointed as the local official in Yang Yiqing's hometown, which was also arranged by Yang Yiqing. Gui E shares a close relationship with him, and regarding this matter, he should also stand on our side. Zhang Cong burst into laughter, seemingly regaining his composure for not being aware of the rivalry between the two Yangs.

A bowl of ginseng soup, Yang Yiqing sipped half-heartedly, yet remained lost in thought, staring at the memorials on the table. After taking a few sips, he lost all interest, pushed the bowl of soup aside, and leaned back against the chair behind him, completely unaware of Yang Jisi standing beside him

Let this matter be concluded today, and it shall not be mentioned again. Furthermore, confer the title of "Grand Protector of the Crown Prince" upon Yang Yiqing. Today in the court..." Zhu Houzong paused for a moment, "Let us disperse then"

Note 1: The Great Rites Debate was a significant and prolonged political controversy regarding the imperial succession that occurred during the Jiajing period. It was initiated by the Ming Shizong Zhu Houcong's claim to the throne through local princely kings, leading to disputes over the posthumous title of his father and the identity of Shizong's imperial ancestor, which involved arguments with the former officials of the Wuzong era, led by Yang Tinghe. Essentially, Ming Shizong Zhu Houcong utilized the debate over rites to undermine officials from the previous dynasty, such as Yang Tinghe and other court ministers, thereby establishing and consolidating his own rule while implementing new policies. This matter lasted for three years and ultimately concluded with the victory of Shizong's faction.

What Master Zhang said is indeed correct" Fang Xianfu quickly responded

In the room, the sound of laughter like silver bells soon echoed.

With a sound of "pa", Peng Yue felt a tap on his leg.

"The child does not listen to what others say, but rather makes his own guesses. The child harbors selfish thoughts, and the petty man Zhang Cong is inherently untrustworthy. There has indeed been a conflict with father before, but father is favored by the Emperor and does not heed the words of petty men. Moreover, how could the insignificant Zhang Cong be worthy of father's concern?" Following the patterns taught in poetry, Yang Jisi spoke while casting sidelong glances at Yang Yiqing's expression. "Father's heart is for the state, with both literary and martial strategies, contemplating the great matters of reform and delineating the welfare of the common people. I believe only the welfare of the common people and the state can provoke such deep thoughts in father..." Yang Jisi intended to continue speaking, but was unexpectedly interrupted by Yang Yiqing.

"Lord Yang, what is your opinion on this?" Zhu Houzhong's expression was grave as he sought to understand how Yang Yiqing intended to respond to this situation

Upon hearing this, Zhang Cong glared at him furiously and shouted: "The merit of the ritual discussions is entirely my doing. The 'Great Rites Inquiry' has resonated profoundly, and it is due to the fact that you gentlemen are unafraid of power and argue based on reason that we achieved the success of that day. Wei Xian is humble and courteous, not proud of his own contributions, but that does not mean the credit should be attributed to Yang Yiqing." After saying this, he angrily turned his head to look at the young Grand Secretary Fang Xianfu beside him

"Poetry, you are truly remarkable, do you know? Today in the court, everyone was impeaching my father, but unexpectedly, after the Emperor reviewed my father's memorial, not only did he not punish him, but instead conferred upon him the title of 'Grand Tutor to the Crown Prince.' Haha, this time you have indeed made a great contribution." Yang Jisi said to Peng Yue with great excitement.

Ah, it is rare for my son to have such filial piety, come in. Yet, the clouds of worry on Yang Yiqing's face did not dissipate much.

While Peng Yue was lying in bed with his eyes closed, Yang Jisi had already gone out

I am unwell and request to resign from my position

I thought you, silly girl, wouldn't be able to tell. " Peng Yue scratched his head in embarrassment

Zhu Houzhong opened the memorial and began to read it quietly. At this moment, all the ministers below were staring intently at the memorial in Zhu Houzhong's hands, and the court was so quiet that one could almost hear a pin drop. Zhu Houzhong initially had a serious expression, but after a while, he appeared much calmer, and in the end, he even revealed a hint of a satisfied smile. At this time, everyone was astonished, not knowing what secrets were hidden within the memorial, especially Zhang Cong, who wished he could burrow right next to Zhu Houzhong to see the contents of the memorial for himself.

"Hmph, don't think I don't know you're pretending to be sick. Your injuries have almost healed, haven't they?" After saying this, Ziling began to laugh triumphantly beside her.

Ah, is your injury alright? If not, I can help you to the study.

However... Lord Zhang, I fear that my solitary efforts may be insufficient to achieve the desired effect

"Given the current situation, there is no other option. " Zhang Cong sighed helplessly, "I will write a memorial to request my retirement from the Emperor."

Peng Yue, who was playfully wrestling with Ziling, quickly stopped and said, "I would appreciate it if you could show me the way."

After Yang Jisi finished speaking, he began to chat aimlessly with Ziling, not knowing what they were discussing. One could see Ziling's small face occasionally turning red, and after a while, she even started to smile foolishly.

The resignation may not be genuine; today's matters in the court are quite perplexing. Although it is unclear what Yang Yiqing actually said, it is evident that the attempt to impeach him has failed. Moreover, those who waver between the old officials and us new officials will likely be swayed and align themselves with Yang Yiqing. The old officials will also use this matter to attack Minister Zhang, and if Minister Zhang remains in the court, the situation will become even more unfavorable for him. Huang Zongming continued, "But there is no need for everyone to worry. The Emperor's desire for reform is growing stronger, and Yang Yiqing is wholeheartedly supporting the old officials, which will surely be intolerable to the Emperor. Although Jiang Mian and Mao Ji have successively lost their positions, and even Fei Hong has been ousted, the influence of the old officials remains substantial. The Emperor needs us, the ceremonial ministers, to suppress the momentum of the old officials. We just need to be patient and wait; there will surely be an opportunity to bring down Yang Yiqing."

"Oh dear, I have noticed that ever since you fell back, although you have become smarter, you have also become... so bad!" Ziling withdrew her hand and raised her small hand again, ready to strike.

On the following day, the court was exceptionally intense. First, Huo Tao presented a memorial, opening the document to enumerate all of Yang Yiqing's faults. Subsequently, many officials claimed to have memorials to present, which turned out to be largely similar, all condemning Yang Yiqing's actions. Some remarks were even more radical, labeling Yang Yiqing as a "traitor." When inquiring about the ministers, many of them expressed a desire for a re-examination.

Before Peng Yue could speak, Ziling beside him spoke first: "What are you all talking about? What memorial, what achievements? Shiyun, you are so annoying, keeping things from me." Ziling pouted, pretending to be unhappy. Secretly, she glanced at them, only to find Yang Jisi beside her was just excitedly lost in his own thoughts, while Peng Yue was smiling and looking at her.

In the brightly lit courtyard of a grand residence, several individuals with varying expressions are engaged in discussion about something

"Smooth-talking and too lazy to care about you," Ziling said with a smile.

"Jisi, who told you these things? From what I know of your grandfather, this is probably not just your personal thoughts, is it?" Although Yang Yiqing said this, there was a hint of uncertainty in his tone, as if he was hoping for a negative response.