Volume 1, Chapter 62: The Construction of the Legal System

The exposure of the roster struck the imperial court like a heavy bomb, instantly stirring up monstrous waves. The courtiers were left in shock by the crimes of the twelve noble clans; their greed, corruption, and betrayal sliced through the trust and loyalty within the officials' hearts like sharp blades.

"This... How is this possible?!" An elderly minister trembled, his finger sweeping across the roster, his eyes filled with disbelief and rage. "How dare they act with such impunity? Where do they place the imperial realm of the Great Ming?!"

"Indeed, it is utterly outrageous!" Another young official seethed with righteous indignation, his clenched fists trembling slightly. "If we do not punish them severely, how can we appease the people's anger? How can we pacify the realm?"

Inside the imperial hall, discussions surged and public sentiment boiled. Sitting upon the dragon throne, Zhu Youjian maintained a profound gaze and a solemn expression. He knew deeply that this storm was far from over; the true challenge was only just beginning.

The collapse of the twelve noble clans not only exposed the dark underbelly of the court but also touched the sensitive nerves of power. For a time, panic spread both inside and outside the court, and many officials began to calculate in secret, searching for new political patrons.

"Lord Li, now that the twelve noble clans have fallen, what are your intentions?" asked a middle-aged official dressed in gorgeous court robes, a cunning gleam flashing in his eyes.

"Hmph, I, Li, have always acted with a clear conscience. Why would I need to attach myself to others?" Lord Li let out a cold snort, though he could not entirely conceal a trace of anxiety on his face. He understood that in this reshuffling of power, the key was how to maintain one's stance and avoid being dragged into the vortex.

However, not everyone was as steadfast as Lord Li. Within the court, some officials who had previously clung to the twelve noble clans began running about in all directions, seeking new shelter. Some offered bribes in secret, while others humbled themselves, all for the sake of grasping a thread of survival amidst the tempest.

Observing all this from his vantage point, Zhu Youjian sneered inwardly. He understood that this was the prime opportunity to rectify the administrative discipline of the court and consolidate his own power. Consequently, he began to deploy his plans in secret, promoting a group of loyal and capable ministers to gradually construct his own network of power.

"Minister Wang, you are upright in your official duties and outstanding in your capabilities. I have decided to promote you to the Minister of Revenue," Zhu Youjian said to a middle-aged official within the Imperial Study, his gaze filled with trust and expectation.

"This humble subject will surely exhaust his loyal efforts to the very end of his days!" Minister Wang knelt upon the ground, his eyes brimming with tears of gratitude. He knew deep down that this was the most crucial turning point of his life, as well as the best opportunity to repay the Emperor's grace.

As batch after batch of loyal ministers were promoted, Zhu Youjian's foundation of power gradually solidified. He began to set about rectifying the court's discipline, severely punishing corrupt officials while strengthening the supervision and appraisal of local magistrates.

"From this day forward, anyone guilty of corruption, bribery, or dereliction of duty shall be severely punished without exception!" Zhu Youjian declared during a grand court assembly, his voice resonant and his tone resolute, piercing like a sharp sword straight to the corrupt roots of the court.

Hearing this, the courtiers felt a jolt in their hearts and cast looks of awe in his direction. They knew that this young emperor possessed not only determination but also the means; he was using his own methods to reshape the glory of the Great Ming realm.

Yet, rectifying the court's discipline could not be accomplished overnight. Zhu Youjian understood that to completely eradicate corruption, he had to resolve the issue from its roots. Therefore, he began to implement a series of reform measures, including strengthening the legal system, raising officials' salaries, and improving the supervisory mechanisms.

"The Emperor is wise!" a minister stepped forward, praising loudly, "If these measures can be implemented, our Great Ming will surely usher in an unprecedented golden age!"

Zhu Youjian smiled faintly, confidence and firmness flashing in his gaze. He knew that this path would not be easy, but as long as he held faith in his heart and strength in his steps, he would surely forge a bright and glorious path ahead.

Finally, during a court assembly, Zhu Youjian openly announced the verdict and punishment for the twelve noble clans. His voice was forceful and resolute, every single word striking like a heavy hammer upon the hearts of the courtiers.

"The twelve noble clans are guilty of heinous crimes and deserve severe punishment! I decree that their titles be stripped, their properties confiscated, and they shall be exiled to the remote frontiers, never to be pardoned!"

The imperial hall fell into a profound silence. The courtiers were variously shocked, emotional, or relieved. They knew that the storm had finally settled, and the realm of Great Ming had once again welcomed hope and light.

"Furthermore, I shall also implement a series of measures to rectify court discipline, strengthen the legal system, raise officials' remuneration, and perfect the supervisory mechanisms to ensure that our Great Ming realm remains secure for eternity!" Zhu Youjian continued, his voice filled with determination and confidence.

Upon hearing this, the courtiers dropped to their knees in unison, shouting praises: "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Great Ming!"

At that moment, Zhu Youjian stood upon the dragon throne, his gaze profound and resolute.