Even women who travel through time can become prime ministers and nobles.

Chapter 301 Aristocratic Families

Inside the Golden Palace, the atmosphere was so heavy it seemed as if water could be squeezed out of it.

The former majesty and solemnity of the carved beams and painted rafters have been replaced by an invisible tension.

Shen Yuxi sat high on the dragon throne, his face as gloomy as the sky before a storm.

His gaze swept coldly over the ministers below the stage, who were arguing heatedly, their faces flushed red, while a fierce anger burned within him.

What was originally a minor border conflict prompted him to decisively send troops to fight, solely to safeguard the peace and tranquility of the country and its people.

But who would have thought that those noble families who usually preached loyalty and righteousness would, for their own selfish interests, pretend to comply but secretly defy them, treating the army's food and pay as their own money bag and embezzling it wantonly.

The number of cases involving the embezzlement of soldiers' pay and provisions was countless.

"Do these powerful families really think I wouldn't dare to touch them?"

Shen Yuxi gritted his teeth inwardly, his clenched fist trembling slightly, revealing the anger and resentment in the young emperor's heart.

The ministers below the stage were divided into several factions, each arguing and refusing to yield.

The leading elders of the clans, with their protruding bellies and flushed faces, loudly proclaimed their so-called "difficulties."

This was merely to cover up their corrupt practices; while some newly promoted officials from humble backgrounds were indignant, denouncing the evil deeds of the powerful families and demanding a thorough investigation and a cleanup of officialdom.

The two opposing voices rose and fell, making the entire Golden Palace seem like a noisy marketplace, completely devoid of the solemnity that a court should have.

Looking at the chaotic scene, Shen Yuxi felt a surge of annoyance.

He knew that this incident had touched the interests of the aristocratic families, and they would certainly not let it go easily.

These powerful families have deep roots in the court and wield immense influence. The wealth and connections they have accumulated over the years are enough to allow them to wield considerable power in the court.

But how could Shen Yuxi back down? He was the emperor of Cangling, bearing the heavy responsibility of protecting the country and its people. He could not allow these parasites to continue to erode the foundation of the nation.

Just then, Shen Yuxi's gaze inadvertently fell on Shi Wanxia. She

Standing quietly to the side, dressed in exquisite court attire, with an upright posture, he appeared exceptionally calm amidst the chaotic scene.

Despite being from another country, she managed to secure a place in the Cangling court, and has always been known for her intelligence and composure.

Shen Yuxi's heart stirred; perhaps this extraordinary female official could bring him some new ideas.

“Minister Shi,” Shen Yuxi said, his voice not loud, but it instantly drowned out the noise in the court, and everyone’s eyes turned to Shi Wanxia.

"What good ideas do you have regarding the issue of military pay and provisions?"

Shi Wanxia was slightly taken aback, then took a few steps forward and gracefully bowed.

She raised her head, her gaze clear and firm, and met the scrutinizing eyes of the crowd, speaking neither humbly nor arrogantly: "Your Majesty, the root cause of this embezzlement of military funds and provisions lies in inadequate supervision and the excessive power of aristocratic families. I believe we can address this from two aspects."

At this point, Shi Wanxia paused briefly, glanced around the court, and seeing that everyone was listening attentively, continued: "Firstly, establish an independent supervisory agency, directly under His Majesty, free from interference from any force."

"This agency is specifically responsible for supervising the distribution and use of military rations and pay. Once embezzlement is discovered, it will be severely punished without exception."

"Secondly, we should appropriately weaken the power of aristocratic families and disperse their influence in the court and the army."

"We could implement the imperial examination system to select more talented people from humble backgrounds to enter the court and break the monopoly of aristocratic families on official positions."

"In this way, not only can fresh blood be injected into the court, but the power of aristocratic families can also be checked."

As soon as Shi Wanxia spoke, the court was in an uproar.

The officials from powerful families all showed their dissatisfaction, knowing full well that Shi Wanxia's two plans had undoubtedly struck at their weak points.

The officials from humble backgrounds, however, were immediately impressed, their eyes filled with approval.

Shen Yuxi nodded slightly, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes: "What Minister Shi said is absolutely right. I have decided to immediately set up an oversight agency, and I will personally select a capable person to be in charge."

"As for the imperial examination system, it can be piloted in some areas first and then gradually promoted."

"Your Majesty, this is absolutely unacceptable!"

An elderly nobleman with white hair stepped forward. This man was Zhao Chongli, the Minister of Personnel. He said excitedly, "Once the imperial examination system is implemented, a large number of scholars from poor families will flood into the court, which will inevitably disrupt the order of the court and affect the foundation of our Great Chu!"

“Minister Zhao is mistaken,” Shi Wanxia immediately retorted.

"The foundation of the Great Chu lies in its people and in the long-term stability of the country."

"The imperial examination system selected talents regardless of their social status, focusing solely on their abilities and character."

"Only in this way can truly capable officials be selected to work for the benefit of the people and serve the country. Wouldn't this strengthen the foundation of the Great Chu, rather than cause chaos?"

Zhao Chongli was speechless after Shi Wanxia's words, his face flushed red, but he couldn't find a suitable reason to refute her.

Other officials from prominent families also voiced their opposition, but Shi Wanxia and some officials from humble backgrounds rejected them one by one.

Shen Yuxi watched the heated debate and pondered to himself.

He knew that implementing these reforms would inevitably encounter numerous obstacles, but for the sake of Cangling's future, he had made up his mind.

"That's settled then," Shen Yuxi declared decisively.

"My mind is made up. My beloved ministers need not discuss this further."

"From this day forward, begin preparations for the establishment of a supervisory body and the implementation of the imperial examination system. Anyone who dares to obstruct or hinder the reforms will face severe consequences!"

Shen Yuxi's voice echoed in the Golden Palace, carrying an unquestionable majesty.

Seeing that the emperor had made up his mind, all the ministers knelt down to accept the order.

However, Shen Yuxi knew in his heart that this was only the beginning.

The noble families will not easily give up their interests, and an even bigger storm may be on the horizon.

As summer draws to a close, what role will this woman from a foreign land play in this turbulent court struggle?

The future is full of unknowns and challenges, but Shen Yuxi believes that as long as he and his loyal ministers work together, they will surely be able to open up a new path for Cangling and lead the country to prosperity.

After the court session, Shen Yuxi returned to the imperial study and pondered alone.

He recalled Shi Wanxia's performance in court, and his curiosity about her grew even stronger.

What kind of past does this woman have? Why did she come to Cangling? And why is she so dedicated to offering advice and strategies to Cangling?

Just then, the chief eunuch Li Dequan walked in and said cautiously, "Your Majesty, Lord Shi Wanxia requests an audience."

Shen Yuxi was slightly taken aback, then said, "Summon her in."

A moment later, Shi Wanxia entered. After bowing, she raised her head and said, "Your Majesty, I have come here to ask you for a favor."

"Oh? What is it? Please speak freely." Shen Yuxi looked at her, his eyes full of inquiry.