The senior military commanders throughout the realm, including the regional inspectors, governors, and even county magistrates-
Almost none of them came from humble families or commoners.
They were all, without exception, sons of great clans.
Even if Cao Mao had nominally brought these armies under his control, their commanders were still sons of great clans. He had won over the army in Hebei, but the officials throughout the regions were no different.
Sitting in his carriage, Cao Mao's face was filled with helplessness.
Fortunately, quite a few men in the Central Army had distinguished themselves this time. He could promote another group who had fought their way up through merit.
Military officers were actually manageable; he could promote men who had earned merit in the army. But what was he to do about the local officials?
The talent available among the lower classes could not currently sustain Great Wei's bureaucratic system.
Cao Mao sank into thought. After pondering for a long time, he raised his head and looked at the man sitting opposite him.
"Second Father, how can the Imperial Court's policies be implemented swiftly in the provinces?"
Sima Zhao raised his head. Had Cheng Ji not been sitting beside him, he would have spat in Cao Mao's face.
You fucking have the nerve to ask me about governing?
Who's your Second Father?!
Seeing Sima Zhao's grief-stricken, indignant face, Cao Mao gave a long sigh and continued, "Second Father, how much influence do you still have left?"
"The outer generals throughout the regions could never send troops on your behalf, even those tied to you by marriage."
"The only one who actually commands an army seems to be Sima Wang in the Northwest."
"But Sima Fu already quarreled with you and split the family before this. He wouldn't take your