Female-dominated society: Striving for the position of powerful minister, doting on Xiao Yunqing

She had no choice but to bite the bullet and say, "Your Majesty, this is absolutely unacceptable. Since ancient times, there has never been a precedent of a man holding office. This move would likely cause turmoil in the court and among the people. I hope Your Majesty will reconsider!"

Other ministers echoed their sentiments, expressing their vehement opposition.

The Empress frowned slightly, displeased, but still patiently said, "I understand your concerns, my dear ministers, but times are changing, and we must adapt accordingly. It is not necessarily impossible for men to serve as officials."

However, the ministers did not buy it and remained firmly opposed.

Upon seeing this, the Empress's face darkened, and she said sternly, "My mind is made up, there is no need to discuss this matter further!" With that, she turned and left.

The officials discussed the matter animatedly, and after several rounds of debate, they turned to look at Shen Leyin.

Shen Leyin stood there, her face turning pale and then flushed.

Although she was a veteran of three reigns, she dared not offend the emperor.

She knew Xiao Ning's temper well; once she made a decision, she could never take it back.

However, the idea of ​​adding male officials is truly absurd. Throughout history, the Kingdom of Phoenix has always regarded women as the rulers, and even those with quick wit who have gained the Empress's favor are few and far between.

Now she wants to add male officials, which is a violation of ancestral rules.

She pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "Please be patient, everyone. I will consider this matter further and give you a conclusion within three days."

The officials acknowledged the order and withdrew from the court.

After the officials left the palace, they continued to discuss the matter privately.

Meanwhile, the Empress had already begun preparations to promote the appointment of men as officials, first issuing an edict to establish schools for men to teach them the ways of governing the country.

When the news spread, it caused an uproar among the public.

Some open-minded people were willing to give it a try, and many young men were eager to enroll in the school.

_

After returning to her residence, Shen Leyin secluded herself, refusing visitors and pondering a solution, hesitating whether to offer advice to the Empress.

Seeing her so distressed, Shen Ji gently advised, "My lady, please don't worry too much. This world still belongs to His Majesty. Since His Majesty has this idea, he must have a deeper meaning."

Shen Leyin sighed and said, "You don't understand. These ancestral rules cannot be easily changed. Once they are disrupted, great disaster may occur."

"This servant is ignorant and does not understand these things, but how can Your Excellency's body withstand such sleepless nights?"

Shen Leyin waved her hand at her, "If I can't figure this out in a day, I won't be able to sleep at night. Lying on the couch is just a waste of time."

"Since all the ministers are disobedient, I believe Your Majesty will also reflect on your own conduct and extend the correct path."

"If it's really as you say, then fine, but I'm afraid she won't appreciate it."

"Your Excellency's good intentions are understood by His Majesty."

“Hmm,” Shen Leyin handed her the teapot and said softly, “Shenji, please add another cup of tea for me.”

"Okay." Chen Ji replied and turned to refill the tea.

_

Two days later, Shen Leyin finally made up her mind to go to the palace to meet the emperor.

When the Empress heard that Shen Leyin was requesting an audience, she knew why she wanted to see her and ordered her to be taken to the Imperial Garden.

After bowing, Shen Leyin went straight to the point, "Your Majesty, I believe that adding male officials is inappropriate. There is widespread anxiety in the court and constant controversy among the common people."

The Empress chuckled softly: "Lord Shen, I know you are loyal, but I did not act on impulse. The country is developing rapidly and there are many affairs to attend to. Relying solely on women as officials is far from sufficient. Men also possess talent and wisdom; why can't they serve the country?"

Shen Leyin was stunned.

The Empress continued, "I will proceed with this matter gradually. First, we will select talented individuals through academies. If there are truly outstanding talents, why not appoint them?"

Upon hearing this, Shen Leyin seemed to understand something and lowered her head, saying, "Your Majesty has great foresight and wisdom, while I am foolish and unable to comprehend Your Majesty's meaning."

The Empress waved her hand: "My dear minister, go back and think it over carefully. I believe you will support me."

After taking her leave, Shen Leyin returned home in deep thought.

After returning to his residence, he locked himself in his room again.

The Empress's mind was made up and could not be reversed, but the ancestral precepts could not be changed either!

If something truly goes wrong, how will she face the late emperor after her death?

Unable to sleep all night, he was still worried and rushed to the palace overnight.

_

Empress' bedroom

Xiao Ning looked at the stubborn person in front of her and felt a surge of anger.

This man has been opposing her since she came to power.

She will oppose everything she says.

She was also the first person to disregard her own words when it came to implementing any system.

She was considerate of her elder and always yielded to her.

But what do we get in return for tolerance? Endless oppression!

"Elder Shen, is there anything else you want to say?" the Empress asked coldly.

"Does Your Majesty not understand what I mean?"

"How could I not understand? But my mind is made up, and I will never change it!"

"Your Majesty," Shen Leyin knelt down, "this matter involves many factors, you cannot act unilaterally!"

“Going against my will?” Xiao Ning looked down at her, his tone resolute. “Even if I go against my will, I will still push it through. I am the emperor, and I am the only one in a high position. What do I have to fear from going against my will?”

“Your Majesty’s words will chill the hearts of countless loyal ministers,” Shen Leyin sighed.

"Is that so? I feel that only your heart is cold."

"I am old and have long since become indifferent to all things. No matter how disheartened Your Majesty may be, I am not afraid," she said, bowing her head and kneeling again. "I only beg Your Majesty not to act impulsively."

Are you reminding me?

"Your subject dares not," Shen Leyin said, bowing her head.

"Old Shen's statement, 'Take everything lightly,' glossed over all the past events."

"What makes Your Majesty say such a thing?" Shen Leyin asked, her face showing a hint of anger.

"Does Old Shen not understand this?"

Shen Leyin choked, her anger raging, but she had no choice but to suppress it. "I am not aware of the matter. I only know that Your Majesty's addition of male officials violates ancestral rules and is inappropriate for the country and the people!"

"What's inappropriate about it?" Xiao Ning questioned her angrily.

"Women are in charge of external affairs, and men are in charge of internal affairs." Shen Leyin paused, then said in a deep voice, "This has been the rule of Fengqi Kingdom since its founding! If you rashly add male officials, men will only think about seeking official positions and knowledge, and then forget about their families. This is neither proper nor proper! It's neither male nor female, what kind of system is this!"

Shen Leyin looked up at her, her tone softening slightly, "When the people are in chaos, have you thought about how you will handle yourself?"

"I have my own way out! But Elder Shen, you have such a strong prejudice against men, don't bring your selfishness into the court!"

Shen Leyin's marriage was unfortunate, and everyone in the world knew it.

"So what if it is? A man should act like a man! He should stay in the courtyard and take care of his wife and children! This is the rule set by our ancestors! What kind of man shows his face in public all day long?"

"That's prejudice!" Xiao Ning retorted without any hesitation.

"Prejudice or disobedience may be your fault, but I am sincere and have a clear conscience!"

"What a fine claim of having a clear conscience! You seem to have a reasoned argument, but every word you say is actually aimed at me. You are clearly implying something!"

“I was referring to men,” Shen Leyin said in a deep voice.

“So what if he’s a man? You’re belittling him with every word, looking down on men like this,” Xiao Ning pointed to the mountains outside the window, “Do you know that this land beneath your feet was won by the so-called men you speak of, who risked their lives to conquer it!”

Shen Leyin was taken aback upon hearing this; she had completely forgotten about General Ling, who had served by the late emperor's side.

He was a man, but his spirit was no less than that of a woman. He fought for his country and its people, died on the battlefield, and his name will be remembered in history.

Seeing that she remained silent, Xiao Ning continued, "The late emperor often taught me to uphold the equality of all beings. I didn't understand it before, and even thought it was nonsense. But now I see that it is of utmost importance!" She turned to look at Shen Leyin, "The matter of male officials must be implemented. You don't need to persuade me anymore."

"I know you are getting on in years, and I know you are thinking of me," the Empress said, reaching out to help her up, "but you are old and should be resting properly. Why are you doing this to yourself?"

"If I were to retire, how many people in the court would still be able to open their hearts to Your Majesty?"

"It's alright," Xiao Ning chuckled lightly, and said slowly, "Even a withered tree can sprout new springs, and people change year after year. People come and go in waves. As long as I relax my policies, why should I worry about not having enough talented people coming in?"

"What your Majesty said is absolutely true."

"In that case, go back and rest early, don't tire yourself out."

Shen Leyin responded and withdrew as instructed.

It's true that she was prejudiced, but it's also true that she cared about Xiao Ning.

Her previous husband was obsessed with seeking official positions and enlightenment.

He disregarded family and affection, preferring death to living a peaceful life with her.

He eventually died tragically in the street, a fact known to everyone.

Xiao Ning, on the other hand, was considered half her student. She was intelligent from a young age, eloquent, and good at negotiation.

Since ascending the throne, she has seen her ability to recognize and appoint capable people and her compassion for the people. She knows that she is a wise ruler.

Before his death, the late emperor instructed her to assist Xiao Ning well, and she has been doing so diligently all these years.

Unfortunately, they always disagreed and gradually drifted apart.

Now, it's finally come to an end.

_

The next morning at court, the Empress ordered the establishment of more schools and the release of official positions, allowing both men and women to enroll and take exams, and all people in the land to be treated the same.

The court officials were quite dissatisfied, but they had no choice but to comply.

From then on, it was no longer the exclusive right of aristocratic families to send boys to school.

The Empress also arranged for Mu Yunqing to attend Baichuan Academy.

Baichuan Academy is the most famous academy in the capital, producing outstanding talents throughout history. Some of its graduates have become important officials in the imperial court.

_

Baichuan Academy

As dawn broke, the bamboo shadows cast soft light, and the rain-soaked stone steps took on a bluish hue.

The rainwater that had not yet dried on the eaves dripped down the corner and slowly landed on the windowsill.

Mu Yunqing strode towards the inner hall of the academy, where scholars were either reciting poems or conversing in hushed tones.

As I walked past a carved window, the sound of reading aloud inside the room abruptly stopped.

Mu Yunqing glanced to the side unintentionally and met a pair of long, bright eyes.

Shen Chenxi, who was holding a book, paused slightly, her focused expression faltering, and looked up at Mu Yunqing outside the window.

Sunlight fell on his delicate face, his dark hair was half-tied up, a few strands of hair fell beside his ears, and his eyes sparkled with a cunning and curious light like stars.

Mu Yunqing walked to the door, bowed to the schoolmaster, and slowly walked to the spot next to Shen Chenxi.

Even after Mu Yunqing sat down, Shen Chenxi continued to stare at him intently.

Mu Yunqing felt a little uncomfortable being stared at and asked, "Why are you staring at me like that, brother? Is there something dirty on my face?"

Shen Chenxi snapped out of his reverie, shook his head, and gave a meaningful smile: "No, it's just that you look very familiar."

Mu Yunqing opened the book and replied casually, "Perhaps people in this world are all somewhat similar."

Xuelu tapped the table, reminding the two to be quiet.

Mu Yunqing did as he was told and listened attentively.

Shen Chenxi's mind was not on her studies at all. While Xue Lu turned around to write, she secretly handed Mu Yunqing a note.

Mu Yunqing unfolded it and saw that it read "A Discussion After Class".

He threw the note out the window and continued reading.

What's there for two men to talk about?

After school, everyone dispersed, and Shen Chenxi pulled Mu Yunqing to a secluded corner of the academy.

“Brother, to be honest, I once heard my elders mention that I have an older brother who was lost when I was young. Seeing you today, I can’t help but wonder why you look so much like me…” Shen Chenxi stared intently at Mu Yunqing.

“You’ve probably misunderstood. I come from an ordinary background and am not the older brother you’re talking about.”

Undeterred, Shen Chenxi took out a small mirror from his pocket and handed it to Mu Yunqing.

“Look closely,” Shen Chenxi pointed to his own eyebrows and eyes, “Don’t you think we look extremely alike?”

"I don't think so." Mu Yunqing shoved the mirror back into his hand and turned to leave.

Shen Chenxi hurriedly grabbed his sleeve, "I don't even know your name, brother."

“I know you,” Mu Yunqing pulled back his sleeve and pointed to his name tag, “Shen Chenxi.”

Without waiting for Shen Chenxi's response, he used his lightness skill to leave.

"Young master, shall we continue the pursuit?" The hidden guard who had been lying in wait nearby appeared and asked him.

“No need to chase him, he’ll come anyway tomorrow,” Shen Chenxi said with a smirk. “You can run away one day, but you can’t escape the next.”

"Yes, young master, the carriage is already outside. Shall we go?"

"Let's go back." Shen Chenxi strode outside.

_

戏园

The actress on stage was graceful, her flowing sleeves dancing lightly, like a willow branch swaying in the wind.

He parted his lips slightly, and a melodious tune flowed out, his eyes filled with endless sorrow, as if telling a story of eternal grief.

Xiao Ran listened intently, feeling a deep empathy, and tears welled up in her eyes.

She was almost in tears when a commotion suddenly broke out downstairs.

She hurriedly wiped away her tears and got up to see what was going on. Her original sadness had long since vanished, and she opened her eyes wide to watch the excitement.

A man was standing in the middle of a group of women. He had angered them simply because he had expressed some different opinions about the play.

A plump woman stood with her hands on her hips and shrieked, "What do you know about opera? Stop talking nonsense here."

Not to be outdone, Song Qi'an retorted loudly, "This play is meant for all to interpret, how can it be left to only women to understand it?"

Another, thinner woman joined the fray, pointing her finger at Song Qi'an and cursing, "Look at your arrogance, you must have no manners."

Song Qi'an's face turned red with anger, and he retorted, "It is your rudeness to act so arrogantly."

The plump woman retorted sarcastically, "Men should stay in their rooms and properly learn male virtues and discipline, what are they doing here listening to music!"

"Is there a law that forbids men from listening to music?" Song Qi'an countered.

“I told you to go back and learn traditional male virtues,” the fat woman shoved Song Qi’an. “What are you trying to reason with me about!”

"How dare you! Do you know who I am?!"

"I don't care who you are," the fat woman retorted, spitting all over Song Qi'an's face, "Someone like you is a spendthrift no matter who you are!"

"Who are you calling a spendthrift!" Song Qi'an wiped his face with his sleeve. "You're just bullying us!"

The group went back and forth, neither giving an inch.