As soon as I said this, it was obvious that most people visibly relaxed, secretly showing signs of joy. Clearly, they had already accepted my proposal in their hearts. A few quick-witted fellows even began to loudly and passionately curse all the faults of Chancellor Harris right there in the hall.

The skill with which those guys hurled insults was so impressive that, as a modern person, my ears were left ringing, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the experience.

“All right, I want to rest now.” I waved my hand impatiently, signaling for them all to leave.

But the Minister of Rites, Charles Taylor, was unwilling to go. I rolled my eyes at him and said, “Does Sir Taylor have something else?”

“Your Majesty, I believe your approach is somewhat improper.” Charles Taylor looked me straight in the eye, completely unafraid.

This old fellow really had a tough character. However, I could see a certain clarity and sincerity in his eyes, without any ulterior motives. Maybe, just maybe, this old guy really was a loyal minister. Impressive—at such a critical moment, he still dared to openly criticize me.

I stared at him for a while before slowly saying, “Then according to Sir Taylor, what exactly should I do?”

Charles Taylor was not the least bit intimidated by my gaze. His tone was firm, but lacked the aggressive forcefulness of Chancellor Harris: “In my humble opinion, Your Majesty should devote yourself to diligent governance, rather than consorting with treacherous officials and corrupting the court.”

Heh, the old guy clearly understands the situation. Although he’s a bit out of touch with the times, I didn’t feel the slightest anger toward him. Strangely enough, when Chancellor Harris pointed fingers at me, I couldn’t help but get furious. But with Charles Taylor, I actually felt a bit of admiration. Perhaps it was the faint aura of righteousness he exuded that won me over.

“Sir Taylor speaks with reason.” I smiled slightly, then added, “Then I’ll trouble you to help me think of a way—how can I both secure the empire and enjoy an easy, pleasurable life?”

Charles Taylor was almost rendered speechless, probably not expecting the emperor before him to be so shameless. His expression changed slightly, but he managed to hold it in and continued, speaking righteously: “Throughout history, every enlightened emperor has always put diligent governance first and pleasure second. This old minister does not oppose Your Majesty enjoying life, but it should only be as a supplement after fulfilling your duties.”

So, the old guy isn’t that closed-minded after all. I laughed to myself—he really was to my liking. So I tossed him another tough question: “According to you, if I am to govern diligently, where should I start?”

“The foundation of the nation is the people; for the country to prosper, the people must first be at peace, and when the people are prosperous, the nation is strong.” As Charles Taylor spoke, his spirit seemed to rise: “If you want the people to be at peace, at the very least, they must be well-fed and clothed. In my humble opinion, Your Majesty should start with improving the lives of the common people.”

“Sir Taylor truly is a pillar of the nation, ever concerned for the country and its people.” I casually flattered him with this costless praise. “However, I still don’t really know what the actual living conditions of the people in the Great Wu Dynasty are. How am I supposed to begin? You know as well as I do, those guys in the Ministry of Revenue aren’t exactly reliable.”

A flash of joy flickered in Charles Taylor’s eyes, but he quickly knelt and said, “Your Majesty’s concern brings this old minister great comfort. This matter cannot be rushed. Once we return to the capital, I will certainly assist Your Majesty in thoroughly investigating the people’s living conditions.”

This old guy was even getting emotional. The more trusted aides, the better. Even if I want to enjoy myself, it wouldn’t hurt to handle some state affairs seriously. Consider it a favor to that guy, since he handed the throne over to me.

“The most pressing matter is tomorrow morning’s Fengshan Ceremony.” At this, Charles Taylor showed a trace of worry. “Throughout history, every emperor who held the Fengshan Ceremony was one of great virtue. Now, many in the court and among the people are already dissatisfied with Your Majesty holding this ceremony.”

Dissatisfied with me? Ha, isn’t that just saying outright that I’m an unworthy emperor? Must have chosen the wrong imperial title. But since this old guy likes to meddle, I’ll just toss the ball back to him: “Hmm, I’ve heard about this as well. But isn’t the Fengshan Ceremony the responsibility of your department, Sir Taylor? If it gets messed up, I’ll be holding you accountable.”

Charles Taylor immediately looked embarrassed, wanting to speak but not daring to. I bet he was thinking, “Clearly it’s you, the unworthy emperor, who insisted on this Fengshan spectacle, and now you’re dumping it on me.”

“In that case, we can only follow Heaven’s will.” Charles Taylor put on an innocent face and said righteously, “Perhaps Your Majesty truly is an extraordinary emperor, and Heaven may yet send down auspicious omens.”

You old fox—what do you mean, “Heaven may yet send down auspicious omens”? You’re clearly mocking me. Suddenly, a flash of inspiration struck me—Heaven sending auspicious omens? Heh, I’ve got it. I smiled as I fixed my gaze on Charles Taylor.

Charles Taylor, seeing me staring at him for so long, started to feel uneasy. He kept glancing at himself, worried that something was amiss.

“Heaven sending auspicious omens is a great idea.” I grinned mischievously. “Sir Taylor, you truly are a loyal old minister. When we return, I must reward you handsomely.”

Now Charles Taylor was completely confused, scratching his head and saying, “What does Your Majesty mean? I don’t understand.”