Chapter 1116. Drawing cakes is a required skill for politicians (3).
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On this day, when Zhao Junchen secretly returned to Zhao Mansion from "Tongji Temple", it was already evening.
Then, before he had finished his dinner, he received a message from Li Ruan from the palace.
According to the news from Li Ruan, Zhao Junchen not only learned more about the details of Emperor Deqing's private visit today, but also learned about the meeting and contact between the seventh prince Zhu Hejian and Xu Sheng.
After reading Li Ruan's information, Zhao Junchen couldn't help but nodded with satisfaction and chuckled: "After the last beating, Li Ruan has become a lot more honest during this time... Judging from the content of this information, there should be no deliberate concealment from me.
information."
After saying that, Zhao Junchen casually handed the news about Li Ruan to Zhang Yu'er who was standing aside. Zhang Yu'er hesitated after reading it once, and then handed it to Xu Qingyan.
As for Xu Qingyan, he read the information carefully and seemed to want to play some role and provide some opinions, but in the end he just opened his mouth slightly and then fell silent.
Seeing Xu Qingyan's performance, Zhao Junchen nodded lightly with satisfaction.
Ever since he took charge of the "Storytellers Guild" on his own, Xu Qingyan has indeed become calmer. Although he still wants to express himself, he no longer just expresses some ridiculous opinions without thinking as before.
In Zhao Junchen's opinion, knowing how to hide one's clumsiness and restrain one's desire for expression is a key step towards maturity.
However, although Xu Qingyan wanted to hide his clumsiness this time, Zhao Junchen did not intend to let him go and asked: "Your Majesty's private visit today is still under our control and there is no need to intervene, but Zhu Hejian's movements are...
We must pay special attention...Qingyan, tell me, why is Zhu Hejian's contact with Xu Sheng this time, and what should we pay attention to in the future?"
Xu Qingyan replied while thinking: "I think Zhu Hejian's contact with Xu Sheng this time has several purposes. First of all, it is naturally to win over Xu Sheng. After all, anyone can see that Xu Sheng is deeply favored by the Holy Spirit. If Zhu Hejian is
If you still want to continue to infiltrate the inner court, you can't alienate yourself from Xu Sheng!"
Zhao Junchen nodded and asked: "Then what should we do in this situation?"
Xu Qingyan replied: "Of course I am using Li Ru'an to continue to drive a wedge between Zhu Hejian and Xu Sheng. Xu Sheng must not be allowed to surrender to Zhu Hejian wholeheartedly! As long as Xu Sheng's position remains wavering, Zhu Hejian's control over the inner court will be greatly weakened.
, which is equivalent to destroying one of his arms!"
"What else?" Zhao Junchen was noncommittal and just continued to ask.
"What else?" Xu Qingyan was slightly startled, but it was obvious that there was nothing more in his mind.
Zhao Junchen waited for a while, and seeing that Xu Qingyan still had no new ideas, he turned to look at Zhang Yu'er and asked, "Yu'er, what do you think?"
Although Zhang Yu'er is a woman, she is also a natural conspirator. Her thoughts are obviously much deeper than Xu Qingyan's. She immediately smiled and said: "And... we can't forget Wu Xinquan, the Supervisor of Ceremonies!
Wu Xinquan and Xu Sheng have never dealt with each other. In the past, Zhu Hejian had been alienating Xu Sheng intentionally or unintentionally in order to ensure Wu Xinquan's loyalty. But now that Zhu Hejian wants to win over Xu Sheng, he must be a little colder towards Wu Xinquan...at least on the surface.
The indifference... So we can not only drive a wedge between Xu Sheng and Zhu Hejian, but also take the opportunity to drive a wedge between Wu Xinquan and Zhu Hejian!
Such a two-pronged approach, even if it cannot destroy Zhu Hejian's penetration and control of the inner court, will still constrain Zhu Hejian in the future, achieving twice the result with half the effort!"
Zhao Junchen nodded again and said: "It's a good idea... The way to balance the emperor's affairs has always been a headache for the superiors... It's up to you, Yu'er, to arrange this matter yourself and spread rumors in the inner court.
It’s not difficult, I believe you can do a good job...Qingyan, please continue."
After Xu Qingyan thought carefully for a moment again, he continued: "As for the second purpose of the Seventh Prince Zhu Hejian, I think he wants to find out the foundation of the 'Tongji Temple' from Xu Sheng! It is obvious that the 'Tongji Temple' has aroused Zhu Hejian's interest.
I think he will definitely have contact with 'Tongji Temple' in the future, or try to take 'Tongji Temple' for his own use, or try to use 'Tongji Temple' to achieve his own goals...
However, Zhu Hejian is not as obsessed with immortality as Your Majesty. I think that with Zhang Daoquan’s methods and wisdom, it is impossible to fool Zhu Hejian like His Majesty. There may be flaws, and we must make some preparations in advance!"
After Zhao Junchen nodded lightly, he shook his head slightly, then turned his eyes to Zhang Yu'er again and asked: "Yu'er, what do you think?"
Zhang Yuer saw that Zhao Junchen wanted to take the opportunity to cultivate Xu Qingyan. Although she believed that Xu Qingyan was not a talent and did not have high training value, she also understood that Zhao Junchen currently lacked reliable helpers and could only rely on the help of people around him for many core projects.
, so we must try to squeeze Xu Qingyan’s potential as much as possible.
Therefore, Zhang Yu'er still smiled like a flower and expressed her thoughts in detail, saying softly: "Yu'er thinks that the seventh prince Zhu Hejian may not dare to have direct contact with the 'Tongji Temple'!
After all, as the quasi-prince, Zhu Hejian has the full support of the Qingliu people, and he always pretends to attach great importance to ethics. He must take his own image into consideration when doing things!
The teachings of the 'Tongji Temple' can be described as neither fish nor fowl, and have never been recognized by the mainstream of the government and the public. Even His Majesty had to hide it when he came into contact with the 'Tongji Temple', let alone Zhu Hejian!
With Zhu Hejian's cautious character, he probably would not have direct contact with the 'Tongji Temple'. It is more likely that he secretly sent a confidant to pretend to be a believer and took the opportunity to spy on the foundation of the 'Tongji Temple'!
Therefore, we must pay special attention to the new believers of "Tongji Temple" next. If someone has secret connections with Zhu Hejian and has frequently visited "Tongji Temple" without warning in recent days, then there is a high probability that
He is Zhu Hejian’s spy!
Of course, if Zhu Hejian loses his caution and comes into direct contact with the "Tongji Temple", we can also follow the trend and publicize it everywhere, letting everyone know that Zhu Hejian, as a dignified and prospective prince, has actually become a believer in the "Tongji Temple"!
At that time, if nothing else, the Qingliu people will definitely rebel! In order to protect his own image, Zhu Hejian can only stay away from the 'Tongji Temple', and maybe he will be forced to express his dislike of the 'Tongji Temple' in public...
But in that case, he will offend His Majesty, who already has deep faith in the 'Tongji Temple', and he will only be asking for trouble!"
Zhao Junchen glanced at Xu Qingyan and continued to mention: "That's right. For Zhu Hejian, the most important thing at the moment is the abolition of the next crown prince. No matter how curious he is about the details of 'Tongji Temple' at this time,
I will never let my image be damaged!"
After seeing Xu Qingyan nod seriously to express his understanding, Zhao Junchen asked again: "Qingyan, do you think Zhu Hejian's visit to Xu Shengke today has a third-level purpose?"
Xu Qingyan was a little discouraged at this time, but he still cheered up and continued to answer: "Of course, it is obvious that in addition to wooing Xu Sheng and spying on the news about the 'Tongji Temple', Zhu Hejian also wanted to use Xu Sheng to deal with the hidden people this time. The secret expert factory!
The power of the Da Neihang Factory is still very weak at present. If Xu Sheng instructs the West Factory to fully investigate, I am afraid that it will be found out soon. At that time, the reconstruction of the Neihang Factory will also be made public, and once the Nei Factory is If you lose your concealment, you lose your biggest threat!
At the same time, after His Majesty and Li Chunchen's plan to rebuild the inner factory was ruined, they still had troubles. After all, Xu Sheng only wanted to investigate a secret society that had infiltrated the imperial court. He was so public-spirited that it was impossible to find fault...
In the end, there were only two results. Either His Majesty was angry that Xu Sheng ruined his plan, which affected Xu Sheng's current holy family, or His Majesty thought that Li Chunchen was unfavorable and would not do anything in the future. Reuse... But no matter what the outcome is, it will be beneficial and harmless to Zhu Hejian. It is really a good plan!"
Zhao Junchen smiled and asked: "Then what do you think we should do at this time? Help Zhu Hejian deal with Li Chunchen? Or stop Zhu Hejian from protecting Li Chunchen?"
Xu Qingyan said without hesitation: "Of course it is to protect Li Chunchen and stop Zhu Hejian! As I said just now, the power of the inner factory is still weak, and the only threat is its concealment, but we now know the existence of the inner factory, so The threat to us from the inner factory is not great, we might as well keep the inner factory to continue to create obstacles for Zhu Hejian, and maybe we can take the opportunity to sell Li Chunchen a favor, or even seize the opportunity to seize Li Chunchen!"
This time, Zhao Junchen looked appreciative, nodded lightly, and had nothing more to add. He was about to say something more, but suddenly heard Zhao Dali's report from outside the study door: "Zhao Gechen, a message just came from The latest news, because it is of critical importance, must be notified to you as soon as possible."
"come in."
Following Zhao Junchen's instructions, Zhao Dali pushed open the door and walked quickly to Zhao Junchen, handing a note to Zhao Junchen.
After Zhao Junchen took the note and opened it, he immediately frowned and his expression became much more serious than before.
Seeing such a change in Zhao Junchen's expression, Zhang Yu'er quickly asked: "Ms. sir, what happened?"
Zhao Junchen said slowly: "I just received news that Zhou Shangjing and Cheng Yuandao are in secret contact at this time...
During this period of time, because Zhou Shangjing expressed his support for the crown prince Zhu Heyu several times, the relationship between him and the 'New Tai.zi Party' became increasingly bad, and Cheng Yuandao became clear among the 'New Tai. Son Party' Their public status is second only to Zhu Hejian, but these two people actually chose this time to have secret contact, which really makes people think...
Zhou Shangjing, an old fox, never takes action, but when he does something shocking, what on earth is he thinking about now? I have a vague feeling that this matter is by no means simple..."
As he was thinking secretly, Zhao Junchen frowned even more.
When facing Zhou Shangjing, Zhao Junchen never dared to be careless and was cautious every time.
However, in every overt and covert fight with Zhou Shangjing, Zhao Junchen has always been at a slight disadvantage, and has been exploited by Zhou Shangjing many times because he was always unable to guess Zhou Shangjing's true thoughts.
This time was no exception. After Zhao Junchen thought carefully for a long time, he still couldn't guess Zhou Shangjing's thoughts, so he had no choice but to order his various intelligence agencies to collect relevant information as much as possible.
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The art of drawing cakes is not only effective for subordinates, but also effective for enemies.
For subordinates, drawing cakes is to stimulate potential and squeeze value; for enemies, drawing cakes is to lower the opponent's alertness, or even lead the opponent astray!
Just as Zhao Junchen was secretly thinking about Zhou Shangjing's true thoughts, Zhou Shangjing was drawing cakes for Cheng Yuandao!
On this day, Cheng Yuandao took the initiative to set up a banquet at home and invited Zhou Shangjing to the banquet.
The reason why Cheng Yuandao hosted a banquet for Zhou Shangjing was because Zhou Shangjing had repeatedly been in trouble with the seventh prince Zhu Hejian in recent times, causing the crown prince's dethronement to be repeatedly blocked. Although Cheng Yuandao was deeply angry, he could not see clearly the reason for Zhou Shangjing's behavior.
Thoughts in mind.
So, under the promptings of some people intentionally or unintentionally, Cheng Yuandao decided to explore Zhou Shangjing's true thoughts.
Cheng Yuandao is the leader of the Qing Dynasty in the DPRK and one of the assistant ministers of the cabinet. With the expansion of the power of the "New Tai. Son Party", as the apparent second-in-command of the "New Tai. Son Party", his status and influence have also increased.
As the tide rose, all boats rose, so he thought that Zhou Shangjing would definitely attend the banquet.
In fact, Zhou Shangjing did happily agree to Cheng Yuandao's banquet and arrived at the Cheng Mansion on time for the banquet.
Although Cheng Yuandao had always been at odds with Zhou Shangjing, he still couldn't help but feel a little flattered after seeing Zhou Shangjing attending the banquet as a favor. After the banquet started, he said a few compliments, and the atmosphere was harmonious, and the guests and hosts enjoyed themselves.
About half an hour later, Cheng Yuandao thought that the time was ripe, and finally couldn't help asking Zhou Shangjing: "Zhou Shoufu, the two of us have been officials in the same court for more than thirty years. I think I know you fairly well."
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In my opinion, you have always known how to exercise restraint, never go beyond your duty, and never interfere in the abolition of the crown prince... Regarding this, I have always admired you deeply!
However, in recent times, Zhou Shoufu's style has changed drastically. Although you didn't say it explicitly, I can see that your recent suggestions at the court meeting were all deliberately aimed at His Highness the Seventh Prince. Isn't that true?
However, I can't figure it out. In the past, His Highness the Crown Prince had many difficulties with Zhou Shoufu, and Zhou Shangjing always tolerated them and ignored them. But now, His Highness the Seventh Prince has never shown any hostility towards Zhou Shoufu, so why is he being made trouble by Zhou Shoufu at every turn?
His Royal Highness the Seventh Prince's character and character are impeccable and impeccable, and he treats me and other ministers with special respect. Is there anything that Chief Minister Zhou is dissatisfied with?"
Hearing Cheng Yuandao's heart-to-heart inquiry, Zhou Shangjing's old eyes flashed with a meaningful smile, and then he also put on a heart-to-heart attitude and said slowly: "Mr. Cheng Ge invited me to a banquet. It's really for
This matter...
In this case, there is no need for me to hide it. I have no dissatisfaction with the seventh prince's character and character. However, I believe that if the seventh prince wants to inherit the throne, he has a fatal flaw, that is, he has a fatal flaw for me and others.
The ministers were too respectful, even to the point of having no independent opinion!
Hey, although it is a good thing to follow the good, but if you do not have your own position and believe whatever your ministers say, you will definitely not be able to become a qualified emperor!"
Hearing Zhou Shangjing's words, Cheng Yuandao couldn't help but be stunned!
As the most powerful official in the Ming Dynasty for nearly a hundred years, it is really incredible that Zhou Shangjing would think that the emperor's lack of independent opinions was a bad thing.
However, in order to win the recognition of all parties in the government and the opposition to the greatest extent, Zhu Hejian did appear to be too good-natured. Upon closer inspection, he did give people the impression that he had no position and no independent opinions.
Seeing Cheng Yuandao looking at him in disbelief, Zhou Shangjing said again: "Mr. Cheng Ge, although you and I have had different positions and often had conflicts for many years, we still have consensus on many things!
For example, you and I both agree that the imperial court is currently facing a lot of internal and external troubles, such as the corruption and failure of military towns in various places, the growth and threat of Jianzhou Jurchen, and the large number of civilians who have lost their land and may become refugees at any time...
...etc., etc., there are countless!
Mr. Cheng Ge, you have also read the history books thoroughly. You must know that under such circumstances, the court needs an ambitious emperor with courage and responsibility, rather than an inactive monarch who follows the good and rules from the top. The latter will only indulge in all kinds of things.
Chaos and hidden dangers continue to expand, and eventually the opportunity for correction is completely lost!
In the past, although His Highness the Crown Prince was a bit reckless, I could see that he was determined to take drastic measures to eradicate the long-standing evils. But now, His Highness the Seventh Prince, I could not see that he had the relevant responsibility and determination!
If it were placed a hundred years ago, I would naturally have no dissatisfaction with His Highness the Seventh Prince, but to put it bluntly, since the Zhou Dynasty, the duration of each dynasty was only about three hundred years. Our current dynasty
It has also reached this period, which can be said to be a critical period that determines the rise and fall of the future. If the throne is handed over to His Highness, the Seventh Prince, who is always good and sincere, I will naturally be worried!"
As Zhou Shangjing finished speaking, Cheng Yuandao became even more stunned.
He never expected that Zhou Shangjing would dare to say such heart-wrenching words to him: "The duration of all dynasties is only about three hundred years."
However, Cheng Yuandao had to admit that what Zhou Shangjing said was reasonable. After thinking about Zhou Shangjing's performance over the years, although he formed a party for personal gain, he always put the overall situation first and was mature in seeking the country. He couldn't help but slightly believe Zhou Shangjing's statement.
However, limited by his vision, Cheng Yuandao was not deeply worried by Zhou Shangjing's words. He still only wanted to persuade Zhou Shangjing to give up his opposition to the seventh prince Zhu Hejian.
Cheng Yuandao was able to sit where he is today, so he was certainly not a fool. After thinking for a moment, he soon thought he had found a way to persuade Zhou Shangjing, and immediately asked: "In other words, the reason why Zhou Shoufu is against the Seventh Prince
Your Highness, it’s because you think His Highness the Seventh Prince lacks the courage and responsibility. Does that mean that as long as His Highness the Seventh Prince shows his courage and responsibility, Zhou Shoufu will no longer object?”
An inexplicable smile flashed through Zhou Shangjing's eyes again, but his old face had a serious expression as he nodded and said, "Of course it is!"
After Cheng Yuandao hesitated for a moment, he asked again: "So, Zhou Shoufu, what do you think His Highness the Seventh Prince needs to do to prove his responsibility and courage?"
After Zhou Shangjing pondered for a moment, he slowly said: "Speaking of which...there is really one thing!"
