Chapter 464: The Emperor's Unfathomable Heart
The fifteenth year of Yuanzheng.
In May, a general amnesty was proclaimed throughout the realm. Those Emperor Li Liu Dan had punished for their words, those wrongfully convicted, and those given harsh sentences for minor offenses were all released. All Under Heaven rejoiced.
An imperial edict declared: the Pacification Feudal Lords were each granted an additional five hundred households, countless gifts of gold, silver, and treasures, and the designation "Pacification" added to their titles to honor their achievements.
In June, the ministers settled upon an era name, designating the following year as the first year of Yuanfeng.
The Jingnan Feudal Lords submitted a memorial, stating, "Emperor Li has been executed. We should obey the court's decrees and return to East of the Passes. The unrest there has yet to be quelled. We cannot delay in guarding the country, and respectfully inform Your Majesty of this."
The Empress Dowager and the emperor issued an edict asking them to stay.
"Since ancient times, extraordinary times have brought forth extraordinary rulers and extraordinary ministers. All Under Heaven is in disorder, and the court's authority languishes. I need the assistance of worthy ministers such as yourselves. How can you leave me now?
"Is it because my virtue is so wanting that I am unworthy of the assistance of these worthies?
"Is it because my heart is too narrow to accommodate you meritorious officials?
"I ask that you loyal ministers give this further thought.
"I am willing to bestow upon you Pacification Meritorious Officials the high offices of Chancellor, Great General, Censor-in-Chief, the Nine Ministers, and Two-Thousand-Shi officials. Once again, I sincerely ask you to remain in Chang'an and assist me."
Liu Bingyi's words were deeply heartfelt. The Jingnan Feudal Lords, officials, scholars, and commoners alike praised him: "Your