noffsinger Chapter 369 Consort Fucha
Chapter 369 Consort Fucha
Having experienced numerous wars, the Qing Dynasty navy was brimming with confidence for this expedition to Java.
But the princesses were not careless at all, and proceeded steadily and surely.
In just six months, the Qing navy successfully conquered Java Island.
Princess Shuhe and Li Zhenxuan stayed behind to guard Java Island, and they quickly set about stabilizing the situation on the island.
Princess Suk-hwa, with her outstanding leadership skills and approachable style,
They quickly won the trust and support of the local people.
She vigorously promoted reforms, abolishing the exorbitant taxes left by the Dutch colonists.
To reduce the burden on the people, while actively developing education and healthcare, and improving the living standards of local residents.
Li Zhenxuan was responsible for military defense and infrastructure construction.
The remaining princesses, including Wenyi, continued to lead the navy and set their sights on their next target—the Philippines.
Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, it has been thirty years since Longchang.
Hongchang has been on the throne for thirty years.
In the thirtieth year of the Longchang reign, the Qing Dynasty's national strength was growing steadily, its territory was constantly expanding, and the people lived in peace and contentment.
Under the wise rule of Hongchang, the territory of the Qing Dynasty now shines like a brilliant star in the East.
Domestically, from the bustling capital city to remote villages, everywhere is brimming with vitality and energy.
Caravans traveled back and forth along the wide, flat highway.
Laden with local specialties, it vividly showcases the wealth of the Qing Dynasty.
Along the railway line, new towns are springing up everywhere.
It has become a bustling hub for the exchange of goods and the movement of people.
Inland waterway shipping is even busier, with boats shuttling back and forth.
Goods from the inland were transported to the coast, and treasures from the coast were brought back inland.
It has promoted trade between coastal and inland areas and driven economic development in the regions along the route.
On the street, young ladies from various families were dressed either in Hanfu or in Qipao and Ruqun.
Some simply wore the work uniforms from their respective factories, creating a diverse and vibrant scene.
The young women walked in groups or with their families, their faces beaming with happy smiles.
Some of them were holding newly bought books.
Others were discussing recent events, chatting and laughing, showcasing the independence and confidence of Qing Dynasty women.
Inside the teahouse, several young people were sitting together, enthusiastically discussing the future of the country.
Somehow, the conversation turned to the topic of the emperor choosing an heir.
They wouldn't have dared to discuss such things so openly before.
I'm afraid that someone with ulterior motives will seize on this and accuse me of treason.
But now the Qing Dynasty is more enlightened, and the people's thinking is gradually becoming more progressive.
People are paying more and more attention to national affairs.
Discussions on these sensitive topics have become commonplace.
"Who do you think the Emperor will choose as his heir?"
A young man spoke first, his eyes full of curiosity.
"Who can say for sure?"
Another young man, fanning himself, spoke slowly.
"His Majesty has many sons, all of whom are quite outstanding. Choosing any one of them would not be bad."
"I think Princess Yongding might have a chance."
The third young man interjected,
"Although the Qing Dynasty has always established princes as heirs, Princess Yongding is exceptionally intelligent and is the legitimate daughter of the Empress."
She was also deeply favored by the emperor, and the princess also participated in court affairs.
It's not impossible that they would make an exception and appoint her.
"Your idea is too naive."
The first young man retorted,
"Although the Qing Dynasty is now open-minded, I'm afraid the court officials will not agree to the establishment of a female crown princess."
After all, traditional ideas are deeply ingrained and cannot be changed overnight.
"Not necessarily."
The fourth young man, who had been silent until now, finally spoke.
"If we really want to establish Princess Yongding, what about the fourteen princesses including Princess Gulun Shuhe?"
Should we support Princess Yongding, who is also a woman, or one of the other princes?
Upon hearing this, the others readily agreed; it was obvious who the princesses would support.
These fourteen princesses achieved remarkable military exploits and held a pivotal position in the Qing Dynasty.
With their support, the possibility of establishing Princess Yongding as the crown prince has greatly increased.
"That's true."
The young man who had previously argued against it nodded.
"The princesses wield considerable influence in the court."
If they all support Princess Yongding, the court officials will probably have to think twice.
"Moreover, everyone has witnessed Princess Yongding's abilities."
Someone else added,
"Although she is a woman, her knowledge and wisdom are no less than those of the adult princes."
Moreover, as the emperor's first child, regardless of whether they were his two sons...
The princes and princesses born to the other six concubines all respected her greatly.
Given the enlightened atmosphere in the Qing Dynasty today, establishing a female heir is not entirely impossible.
However, this is a major decision concerning the future of the Qing Dynasty, and ultimately it depends on the Emperor's will.
After all, the Emperor was the supreme ruler of the Qing Dynasty, and he would certainly give careful consideration to the matter of choosing an heir apparent.
Just as everyone was discussing it enthusiastically,
An elderly tea drinker came over.
He was dressed in a long robe and mandarin jacket, with a melon-shaped hat on his head, but underneath the hat was no longer his usual braid.
Instead, he had neat short hair and looked very energetic.
His face bore the marks of time, but his eyes shone with wisdom.
He coughed lightly and said:
"My dear friends, what you say makes sense, but the matter of establishing an heir apparent still needs to be considered carefully."
The Emperor has his reasons; it's best for us outsiders not to speculate.
Everyone nodded in agreement, and the atmosphere gradually eased.
Outside the teahouse, the sun shone brightly and a gentle breeze blew.
The streets and alleys of the capital city are filled with both prosperity and tranquility.
In every corner of the Qing Dynasty, people were striving to make a living.
Merchants were busy running their businesses, while farmers toiled in the fields.
Craftsmen meticulously crafted various objects, while scholars devoted themselves to their studies...
The people of the Qing Dynasty enjoyed the prosperity and stability of the country.
They are full of hope and anticipation for the future.
Finally, some officials in the imperial court couldn't hold back any longer and brought up the matter of establishing an heir apparent.
The Emperor has been on the throne for thirty years, and although he is now in his prime...
But the emperor wasn't one to sit idle; a few years ago, he even personally led a military expedition.
If something unexpected happens, it will be very troublesome. It would be best to establish an heir as soon as possible.
This will help stabilize the court and prevent unnecessary disputes from arising in the future.
Of course, some people are genuinely trying to secure their positions.
However, some people, driven by their own selfish motives and self-interest, hope to gain merit by following the leader's lead.
"Your Majesty, the Qing Dynasty is now powerful and the people live in peace and contentment. This is the perfect opportunity to establish an heir apparent."
Establishing an heir early will reassure the people and prevent future turmoil in the court.
Upon hearing this, Hongchang glanced at the crowd in court.
From civil and military officials to princes and princesses such as Yongding, Yonglian, and Yongjue,
Every expression on everyone's face was clearly visible.
"What are your thoughts on Lord Shen's proposal?"
As soon as he finished speaking, several other ministers came forward to echo his sentiments.
"Your Majesty, I believe that what Lord Shen said is absolutely right."
Establishing an heir apparent early can stabilize the morale of the court.
This also contributed to the long-term stability and prosperity of the Qing Dynasty.
An elderly civil official stepped forward and said,
He stroked his beard, his gaze revealing a deep thoughtfulness.
"Now that the Qing Dynasty is at its peak, it is a crucial moment for the orderly succession of its power."
His Majesty is wise and powerful, and his offspring are all pillars of the state.
Whoever is chosen as the crown prince will be a blessing for the Qing Dynasty.
Hongchang then looked at Yongding, Yonglian, Yongjue, and the others.
Princess Yongding, as the eldest sister, was the first to step forward, her expression sincere.
"Your Majesty, I believe that you are young and vigorous, while we are still young and need more time to gain experience."
Establishing an heir apparent at this time is probably premature.
When some ministers saw Princess Yongding step forward, they unconsciously frowned.
Although the emperor allowed the princess to participate in politics and even go to the battlefield
But deep down she still felt that the princess shouldn't interfere in such an important matter as the selection of the crown prince.
Yonglian also stepped forward, cupped his hands, and said:
"Your Majesty's words are absolutely right. We your children are willing to continue growing under Your Majesty's guidance."
He should assume the responsibilities of heir apparent only when he has sufficient ability.
The other princes and princesses also expressed their agreement. Upon hearing this, Hongchang...
He nodded slightly, quite satisfied with his children's performance.
These children are not without ambition, but they are all able to stay focused and patient.
I wasn't thinking about the spot under his butt.
Just then, a young and impetuous minister stepped forward.
"Your Majesty, I feel that the princesses and princes are all too modest."
The princesses were both literate and martial, each excelling in their own way.
Although Your Majesty is young and vigorous, the matter of establishing an heir is crucial to the future of the Qing Dynasty, and it is always good to make plans early.
Now, all the officials in the court are hoping for the early establishment of a crown prince to bring peace to the country.
These princes and princesses certainly have the air of princes from the Kangxi era.
Each has its own strengths, and many people worry that the chaos of the Nine Princes' Succession Struggle might be repeated.
After all, Emperor Kangxi reigned for a long time, and although the crown prince was established early on...
However, Emperor Kangxi valued power and influence, and all his sons were outstanding.
Inevitably, their arrogance and ambition, coupled with their covetousness for the throne, ultimately triggered the brutal infighting among the nine princes vying for the throne.
The court was in turmoil, and the people suffered as a result.
Although the current emperor is wise, he has many children, and the princes seem to have a good relationship with each other.
But over time, there's a fear that sordid things might arise.
Hongchang asked, "Then who do you all think is qualified to take on the position of Crown Prince?"
After Hongchang made this statement, many ministers began to recommend their preferred candidates.
One minister suggested, "Your Majesty, I believe the eldest prince is the most suitable."
As Your Majesty's eldest son, the First Prince has been intelligent since childhood.
Furthermore, he repeatedly offered suggestions beneficial to the national economy and people's livelihood in court.
His talent and insight are both outstanding.
Furthermore, the eldest prince is gentle in nature and treats people with courtesy and propriety, which I believe makes him very suitable.”
The eldest prince refers to Yonglian, one of the triplets.
Another minister then said, "Your Majesty, the Second Prince is more suitable."
The second prince, also born to the empress, was exceptionally intelligent.
Moreover, he has many years of military experience and has been trained in the military for many years.
He led troops into battle many times, achieved numerous military exploits, and won the hearts of his soldiers.
He was resolute and decisive, possessing the courage and vision expected of a crown prince.
The Qing Dynasty now boasts a vast territory, with all surrounding foreign lands submitting to its rule.
The future will require a capable and battle-hardened crown prince to stabilize the borders.
The Second Prince is undoubtedly the best choice.
Thus, some suggested Yonglian, while others suggested Yongjue.
Other princes were also suggested, but no one mentioned the princesses of Hongchang.
The female officials in the court were naturally dissatisfied, while these men only looked at the prince.
But they were unwilling to acknowledge the princess's excellence.
It's not that no one thinks highly of the princesses; it's just that no one dares to speak up.
Hongchang was also very dissatisfied with this, as Yongding was his first child.
His favorite daughter was intelligent, considerate, and hardworking from a young age.
Why isn't anyone recommending her? Is it just because she's a woman?
He had long considered the matter of establishing an heir, and he felt that Yongding was quite suitable.
And the Empress Dowager was very supportive.
At this moment, Nian Xiyue said, "Your Majesty, I believe that Princess Yongding was born to the Empress."
In terms of both talent and knowledge, he is in no way inferior to the princes.
She was exceptionally intelligent and displayed remarkable talent from a young age.
In the imperial court, she repeatedly put forward suggestions that were beneficial to the national economy and the people's livelihood.
Moreover, his insights were unique and deeply appreciated by the court officials.
In military affairs, she also personally went to the battlefield three times.
Although he did not serve as the head coach, he was both brave and resourceful on the battlefield.
His strategic vision and tactical abilities are admirable, as he has participated in military decision-making on numerous occasions.
Since Princess Yongding began participating in court affairs, she has served in the Six Ministries in rotation.
She is familiar with government procedures and handles affairs in an orderly manner.
They have profound thoughts and insights on issues such as national finance and people's livelihood.
More importantly, Princess Yongding was deeply loved by the people.
Her approachable style and outstanding leadership skills won her the hearts of the people.
If Princess Yongding is made crown prince, she will surely gain the support of the people.
With such talent and virtue, he will surely lead our Great Qing Dynasty to an even more glorious future.
As soon as Nian Xiyue said this, the court was in an uproar.
Ministers who supported making the prince the crown prince opposed the move, arguing that it violated ancestral rules.
"Princess is a woman, and the Qing Dynasty has always been inherited by princes."
Establishing a female heir would violate ancestral laws and could potentially trigger widespread chaos.
An old minister said excitedly, veins bulging on his forehead.
The ministers who supported Princess Yongding argued their case forcefully.
It emphasizes that the Qing Dynasty is now open-minded and that ability is the key, and one should not be bound by tradition.
Princess Guren Wenyi, Princess Guren Shujia
Princess Guren Wenwan and other princesses also stood up to speak for Princess Yongding.
"Times have changed. Now, the Qing Dynasty has opened up new possibilities."
Women can hold up half the sky too. Princess Yongding is exceptionally capable; why not make her the crown prince?
Princess Wenyi's voice was booming, and her eyes were resolute.
In the imperial court, the two factions argued endlessly, and the atmosphere was tense and ready to clash.
Only then did some people remember that behind Princess Yongding stood fourteen princesses who had rendered outstanding military service and were highly regarded by the emperor.
Although Princess Guren Shuhe and Princess Guren Wenyan were not present today.
But as women, the princesses would certainly be willing to stand on the same side.
As for the other princesses in the palace, all of them were born of concubines, so their status was not as noble as that of Princess Yongding, who was born of the Empress.
Princess Yongding had the support of fourteen princesses behind her.
These fourteen princesses had distinguished themselves in battle and were highly valued by the emperor.
Their influence in the imperial court should not be underestimated.
Princess Yongding's description made her pale in comparison to the princes and princesses, as if she had no chance of winning.
However, some laughed with a hidden meaning, suggesting that so many people supporting Princess Yongding might not necessarily be a good thing.
During the struggle for the throne among the nine princes, the Eighth Prince was also very popular, but ultimately he was feared by the Kangxi Emperor.
He was severely reprimanded, and called the son of a lowly maid from the Xin Zhe Ku.
From a young age, he was arrogant and cunning, treacherous by nature, using kindness to win people's hearts, yet he was neither benevolent nor filial.
Princess Yongding's influence is now so great that if it is not handled properly,
I'm afraid this will displease the Emperor, and I don't know what will happen to me then.