ssions before, but were reprimanded by the prince. If it weren’t for the rule in our dynasty that imperial historians cannot be punished for speaking their minds, those two men would have been skinned...Chapter 1135: Debate

But all famous officials have one characteristic: they are not afraid of death.

Even they hoped that the emperor would order their execution, so that they could achieve immortality and be remembered throughout the ages.

In Li Chen's view, these people probably all have serious problems with their brains.

I don't expect to be promoted to a high official position because the system of officials is relatively closed. Officials rarely get transferred to other positions, and other departments are reluctant to accept them because their primary job is essentially offending people.

And since promotion is out of the question, this group of literati, who are full of ink and knowledge but no practical experience, are mostly not interested in money.

Their only interest is fame.

In their eyes, being executed by the emperor was the highest honor.

They speak out for the world, offering advice on morality and virtue, serving as a model of loyalty.

Although Zhao Xuanji has almost held absolute power for decades due to the chaos of court politics, leading to constant corruption within the Department of Censor, there are still a few hard-bones like Qian Shiyuan.

Li Chen has killed quite a few officials on both sides of the Imperial Court, and even this latest purge did not reach him. This shows that Qian Shiyuan does not have any political vulnerabilities to exploit.

And yet, the court truly couldn't do without these sorts of people.

When Qian Shiyu jumped out, most of the officials secretly rejoiced.

Words that one dared not speak, were finally voiced by someone.

Li Chen looked at Qian Shiyuan, who had a stern face, and said lightly: "Qian sir, why not"

Qian Shiyuan stiffened his neck and stared defiantly at Li Chen, saying, "The system originated from our ancestors; how can one dare to speak of abolishing it"

Li Chen had anticipated Qian Shiyu's excuse and asked nonchalantly, "Times change, and the world evolves. Ancestral practices only proved suitable for their time. Now, three hundred and sixty years have passed, and the environment, people's thoughts, and everything are different. Changing systems is simply to ensure that governance better suits current circumstances, benefiting all under heaven. It is not disrespectful to our ancestors."

Qian Shiyuan frowned slightly, but then said: "The system is the foundation. Moving it around carelessly can easily cause chaos. Such a major matter should not be rash. Your Highness should send officials to conduct a detailed investigation and research, followed by discussions among the ministers, before finally presenting a plan."

Li Chen looked at Qian Shiyuan and said, "Master Qian means that this palace cannot make the decision"

Qian Shiyuan's face turned serious, and he bowed and said: "In my humble opinion, this is a prudent plan. For such a major affair, being extra cautious is never excessive."

"Okay."

Li Chen nodded and asked, "Then let me ask you this, in your opinion, how long would it take to investigate, research, and discuss the matter before reaching a conclusion"

Qian Shiyuan didn't seem to hear the dissatisfaction in Li Chen's words. Instead, he started thinking seriously. After a long while, he said solemnly: "Institutional reform involves all aspects and requires a thorough investigation both domestically and internationally. It also needs to be compared with historical dynasties. This kind of project would take at least three to five years to complete. Then, a draft will be drawn up, discussed by the officials, and any shortcomings or inappropriate parts will be revised. The whole process might take about ten years."

Li Chen smiled and said, "Not bad, at least ten years, but this palace doesn't want to wait ten years."

This statement caused Qian Shiyuan's eyebrows to furrow, and he also raised his voice: "Such a major matter, concerning the very foundation of the nation, involves the stability of the state. Your Highness's such hasty decision how can you expect to gain the support of the people"

"Qian Shiyuan!"

Li Chen let out a furious shout, "Do you even know about my plan Have you seen even a single word of the reform content"em to the front lines with all our might.The second matter is to publicly announce the granting of a title upgrade to Prince Ning, raising him to the rank of Pingjian Wang. Furthermore, all relevant...