Rebirth of His Royal Highness Prince Chenghu

The next day, the Qianqing Palace

Kangxi looked at his son, who looked like him, and said, "My son, what do you think about what my father told you yesterday?"

Cheng Hu: "Father, it's not impossible for me to take over the throne, but I have a request. If you agree, I will take over the throne. If you don't agree, you can continue to sit on the throne."

Kangxi asked curiously, "What is your request? Tell me."

Chenghu said with a firm look: "The first thing my son will do after he succeeds to the throne is to give Baocheng and Yuanyuan the title of prince, and the seventh and fourteenth will be given the title of county prince.

Kangxi: "Yes, as long as you succeed the throne, you can give Baocheng and Yuanyuan any titles you want. What about the second one?"

Cheng Hu: "The second thing is, from now on, whether it's Garudai, my son's legitimate daughter, or my four younger brothers' legitimate daughters, none of them can marry far away to Fumeng. As long as my son disagrees, even if the ministers go to you, you can't agree."

After hearing this, Kangxi pondered for a moment and said, "I can agree to this. Are there any other conditions?"

Cheng Hu continued, "The third thing is that I hope Father can abolish the Eight Banners selection system."

Kangxi's eyes widened as he asked, "Why cancel the selection? This is our ancestral rule."

Cheng Hu responded, "Because most of the women of the Eight Banners were tools for political marriages, they couldn't choose their own marriages, and intermarriage within the Eight Banners also caused some problems. If the selection was abolished, it would give women more autonomy and improve relations within the Eight Banners."

Kangxi was silent for a moment and then said, "Let me consider this condition again."

Seeing Kangxi's hesitation, Chenghu continued, "Father, if you're concerned about the marriages of the Eight Banner children, I have an idea. Why not establish a dedicated agency within the Eight Banners to handle their marriages? This would give them more opportunities to meet suitable partners, rather than relying on forced selection. This way, we could both ensure the inheritance of the Eight Banners and ensure happy marriages for our children."

Kangxi thought for a long time, then nodded slightly and said, "Your Highness's suggestion is feasible, but it may take some time to implement."

Cheng Hu smiled and said, "I believe in you, Father. I will definitely find a solution."

Kangxi gently stroked Chenghu's shoulder, his eyes full of admiration.

Cheng Hu continued, "Fourth, I hope to reform the imperial examination system. The current system is too focused on formalities, making it difficult for many talented individuals to stand out. I suggest increasing practical assessments to allow more talented individuals the opportunity to showcase their strengths."

Kangxi frowned slightly. "The imperial examination system is the foundation of the country's talent selection. If it is reformed hastily, it will probably cause a lot of controversy."

Cheng Hu replied, "I understand the importance of the imperial examination system, but the current system does have many drawbacks. If it can be improved, it will surely be able to better select truly talented people."

Kangxi thought for a moment and said, "This matter is of great importance. I need to consult with the court officials before making a decision. However, I am very pleased that the emperor has such insight."

After Chenghu thanked him, he said, "Fifth, I implore you, Father, to reduce the people's taxes. These days, people are facing great hardship and hardship. If you can reduce taxes, the people will be able to live and work in peace and contentment, and the country will be even more prosperous."

Kangxi nodded. "Your Highness cares deeply about the people, a true sign of a benevolent ruler. I will consider this matter."

Chenghu kowtowed in thanks, "Everything I have proposed is for the benefit of the country and the people. I hope you will fulfill your wish."

Kangxi looked at Chenghu, his heart filled with emotion. "My son has grown up and has his own opinions and ideas. I will seriously consider your proposal."

Kangxi smiled and patted Chenghu's shoulder, motioning him to stand. Then he slowly stood up, looking forward with a determined gaze. He said, "Your Highness is absolutely right. The people are the foundation of a country. Water can carry a boat, but it can also overturn it. I will consider this matter carefully. However, this matter has far-reaching implications, so we need to consider it carefully."

Cheng Hu also stood up and replied respectfully, "Thank you, Father. It would be my honor to benefit the people."

Afterwards, Kangxi and Chenghu discussed other political affairs. Chenghu's wisdom and decisiveness made Kangxi more satisfied and full of expectations for the future.