"The rebellion will be left entirely to the General of the Guards to handle."
"But we still need to assist with supplies and the like for suppressing it."
Inside the Imperial Secretariat, the ministers had gathered once again.
This was a place where only Secretariat ministers should have appeared, yet almost all the court's senior officials were present now, sharing an unspoken understanding.
The ministers were trying to concentrate all affairs of government within the Imperial Secretariat. They wanted to step outside the confines of the Court Assembly and keep all governing authority in their own hands. After all, neither the Empress Dowager nor the emperor could enter the Imperial Secretariat.
Now, the ministers began discussing spring planting, the distribution of supplies, and the many issues involved in restoring livelihoods in Hebei.
The ministers at the Imperial Court were deeply self-serving, but they were not without ability.
Within a short time, they had produced several workable plans. After all, these men were the elite of the great families.
When their interests did not clash too sharply, their abilities readily showed themselves.
Zheng Chong sat in the seat of honor without a word, like a wooden statue.
Once the ministers had discussed all the major matters they would need to handle next, silence finally fell again.
"We cannot delay the matter of the Zhongzheng System any longer."
Wang Xiang suddenly spoke.
The ministers immediately turned toward him.
Too much had happened lately, and they had not had time to consider this matter.
Although they too wanted to carry it out, hesitation showed in their eyes. They did not know whether this was a good time.
Wang Xiang said earnestly, "We must first establish the Clans Rank Determination."
The ministers exchanged several glances before asking, "Is now the time to do this?"