"Your Majesty, the Empress Dowager summons you at this time; it's likely about the new policies. Do you have a plan to address this?"
The Empress Dowager's opposition is as formidable as the court's.
She has consistently opposed the Emperor's initiatives. Anything he wishes to implement, she strives to obstruct. The new policies will inevitably affect her interests, diminishing her power. How could she possibly allow such changes?
"I am implementing these reforms for the sake of the people. Even the Empress Dowager cannot deter my resolve!"
Nangong Qing's expression was resolute. Implementing new policies was the swiftest way to open a new chapter in the court. He knew it would affect the interests of the nobility and anticipated significant resistance even before proposing them.
"Your Majesty, you must handle matters with the Empress Dowager delicately. Avoid escalating tensions. She still holds considerable power in court. We must proceed gradually. Implementing reforms will be a lengthy process, not something achieved overnight."
"I understand."
Nangong Qing's eyes darkened. He had endured and strategized for years and would not act hastily. However, conflict with the Empress Dowager over the reforms was inevitable; he had to face it head-on.
"Emperor, you should know why I summoned you today."
"Mother, the implementation of the new policies is imperative. I will not yield on this matter!"
It wasn't that Nangong Qing didn't want to be conciliatory, but the inherent conflict in this matter left no room for compromise. It was better to firmly state his position, letting the Empress Dowager understand his determination.
Jiang Mingzhu observed the Emperor's unwavering stance. In the past, she would have been infuriated.
"Are you aware that these reforms will infringe upon the interests of many?"
"I am aware. For the sake of the people, I must proceed. If Da Qi continues on its current path, it will inevitably decline. The court nobles are solely concerned with their own interests, while the common people suffer. The people are the foundation of the court; they can support or overturn it. If they cannot survive, what is the purpose of my reign?"
"What you say is reasonable. The ministers in court understand this principle. So why did many oppose your proposal today?"
Jiang Mingzhu's question brought a hint of sarcasm to Nangong Qing's face: "Do you not already know the reason, Empress Dowager?"
His implication was clear: he believed Jiang Mingzhu was behind it.
"I see the benefits of the new policies and have no intention of obstructing you. If I truly opposed, do you think today's court session would have ended as it did?"
Although the debate was intense, there was still room for maneuver.
Nangong Qing recalled Jiang Su's feigned illness today.
"Although Jiang Su is a member of the Jiang family, he is no longer under my control. The ministers who opposed today, aside from his faction, did so because their interests are threatened."
Nangong Qing pondered this.
"Mother, did you truly not intervene in today's court affairs?"
"You underestimate me. If I had intervened, I would have eradicated the problem at its root, leaving you no room to maneuver."
Her words were harsh but truthful.
"You are still young. Those ministers speak of loyalty and patriotism when their interests are untouched. But once threatened, their true nature emerges."
Seeing the Emperor's attentiveness, Jiang Mingzhu continued.
"Even I would face significant opposition if I hastily introduced reforms. Throughout history, which implementation of new policies hasn't been paved with bloodshed? Successes are rare."
"What do you suggest I do?"
Sensing her attitude, Nangong Qing probed.
"Regarding the reforms, I advise you to proceed gradually. Jiang Su's opposition today isn't necessarily detrimental. Although his actions contradict my intentions, many believe he represents my stance."
She noticed the Emperor's serious demeanor. She had strategies in mind, not of her own devising, but from advisors in her past life.
"If you start with grand reforms, you'll face fierce resistance. Instead, begin with minor changes. This way, opposition will be less intense. People are more willing to forgo small interests, making acceptance easier. Future initiatives will then proceed more smoothly."
In her past life, Nangong Qing's reforms were thwarted by her in court. Unable to proceed, he adopted this flexible approach, gradually introducing minor changes. As acceptance grew, he developed new personnel and teams.
Nangong Qing was visibly moved, his gaze toward Jiang Mingzhu complex, now mixed with admiration alongside resentment.
Experience comes with age. He had previously considered enforcing the reforms with a firm hand, expecting compliance from the ministers. But their resistance this morning showed that such an approach would backfire, potentially undoing years of effort.
"As a ruler, you must have the resolve to take decisive action, but also the wisdom to adapt."
"I have learned much."
Nangong Qing solemnly bowed to Jiang Mingzhu. Despite their past animosities, the reforms were crucial for the people's welfare. If successfully implemented, it would be a great merit. He preemptively expressed gratitude on behalf of the people.
Jiang Mingzhu was pleased. Compared to her unfilial son, who was preoccupied with romantic fantasies, conversing with someone intelligent was straightforward.