Chapter 378: Transition from Old to New (4)_1
With a single statement from the Emperor, the Crown Prince and the Grand Master were left speechless.
"The Emperor is wise." A chorus of ministers called out in agreement.
"Your Majesty, I believe the Grand Master is also considering the interests of the Imperial Court. Although the Northern Land is the Prince’s fief, it would be better to send officials from within the court to supervise. The former top scholar of the kingdom, Yuan Yanzhao, stepped forward to report."
Upon hearing this, all the court officials nodded in agreement. Though the Northern Land was barren and had harsh climates, it played an important role. It was the rear guard of Daqin. If control was fully handed over to the Prince and his family, it would seem somewhat inappropriate.
Hearing Yuan Yanzhao’s suggestion, the Emperor frowned slightly. "What do my loyal ministers make of what Minister Yuan has said?" he asked.
"Father, I believe Minister Yuan has a valid point." The Crown Prince glanced at Yuan Yanzhao in agreement.
"Who do my loyal ministers believe would be best to send?" enquired the Emperor.
At these words, the hall immediately fell silent.
The Northern Land was a harsh, frigid region. Each year, anyone who was sent there had either committed a serious crime or were recruited troops sent by the inner court. How could any of these officials who were accustomed to revel in extravagance wish to head to such hardships?
For a moment, the whole court was quiet, with no previous debate or discussion to be heard.
The Eighth Prince could not help but force a wry smile. Such were the officers of Daqin. The Emperor, indulging in pleasure, had countless beautiful women in his palace and the national treasury’s silver all spent on pleasures. The officers below him, following his example, were all entrenched in corruption with the Emperor turning a blind eye. Even if he wasn’t interested in state affairs, he was aware of the emptiness of the national treasury.