Chapter 30: Guo Jia's Loyalty

Before the introduction of imperial examinations, noble clans were the greatest hindrance to the nation’s development and strength. They controlled local affairs, monopolized official positions, effectively blocking any upward mobility for commoners and those from humble backgrounds.

Moreover, these clans intermarried, forming tight alliances with intertwined power structures, making it incredibly difficult even for an emperor to challenge their influence.

As such, Liu Xie held no affection towards these aristocratic families. If he ever gained true authority, he would undoubtedly target them for a comprehensive purge, cleansing the system inside out.

The current Great Han had become deeply corrupt.

Guo Jia did not expect Liu Xie to possess such an iron-willed side, contemplating action against the noble clans. While surprised, he also found it somewhat naive.

“Your Majesty, your thoughts on this matter are still overly simplistic,” Guo Jia said, shaking his head with a wry smile. “Noble clans have intricate marital ties and mutual support networks. Their outstanding descendants hold high offices at the imperial court, while lesser ones serve locally.”

“The entirety of Great Han, from top to bottom, is filled with their people. If Your Majesty truly purges all of them, the imperial court itself would cease to function.”

This was the terrifying aspect of noble families - their influence ran deep, intertwined with the imperial court. Without them, the government would cease to function effectively.

Let’s take taxation as a simple example. Taxes were not directly paid to the imperial court but collected locally before being remitted centrally.

If the local noble families refused to cooperate with tax collection and payment, guess who would bear the brunt? The saying “mountains hide the emperor” perfectly encapsulates this situation.

“I am aware,” Liu Xie acknowledged. “To eradicate these malignant tumors, brute force alone is insufficient; ultimately, it requires comprehensive reforms.”

Liu Xie, of course, understood what Guo Jia implied.

Such reforms would necessitate efforts spanning several generations to achieve.

Capitalizing on the high spirits during their conversation, he seized the opportunity to discuss his reform plans with Guo Jia, showcasing his visionary charm.

“Military might can serve only as deterrence and ensure policy enforcement. To fundamentally change this system, we must undertake significant reforms.

“For instance, implementing a merit-based examination system for official appointments.”

Guo Jia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “A merit-based examination system?”

He wasn’t quite sure what Liu Xie meant by that.

“Allow us to explain.” Liu Xie chuckled slyly, relishing the chance to impress this formidable advisor!

“The concept of ‘official selection through imperial examination’ involves standardized tests for candidate evaluation. These exams would be tiered, with each successful completion allowing advancement to the next level. Ultimately, the final round would involve personal interviews conducted by the Emperor himself.”

Upon hearing this, Guo Jia’s expression turned slightly disappointed.

He had anticipated some extraordinary idea from Liu Xie, only to find it was merely about adding more examinations. While this could potentially improve the quality of selected officials, it did not address the fundamental issues at hand.

However, Liu Xie quickly dispelled his doubts.

“Tiered examinations form just the basic structure of official selection. The most significant feature is that eligibility does not depend on one’s birth; even commoners can participate in these exams.

“Furthermore, we will abolish direct recommendations by officials. Regardless of noble lineage, anyone aspiring to become an official must pass the exams, competing against all scholars nationwide!”

“How do you think the noble families will maintain their grip on power once they lose this advantage? How long can their familial influence remain stable then?” A sly smile played across Liu Xie’s face.

This was the most terrifying aspect of the imperial examination system - irrespective of one’s background, to become an official, passing the exam is mandatory!

Whether one was from royalty or aristocracy, a descendant of eminent officials or military generals, all had to pass the examination before entering public service.

“Fengxiao, what do you think?” After explaining the concept of imperial examinations for official appointments, Liu Xie confidently looked at Guo Jia, anticipating his astonished reaction.

However, he found Guo Jia standing still with his head bowed, showing no signs of excitement or approval, which puzzled him greatly.

Why is there no reaction whatsoever?

“That’s precisely it…”

Just as Liu Xie began doubting himself, Guo Jia suddenly spoke up.

He lifted his head, revealing his usually composed and handsome face now streaked with tears, eyes deeply red.

“This, Your Majesty, is the answer I’ve been seeking!” Guo Jia choked back sobs, his voice trembling.

This elusive solution he had tirelessly pursued—the path for underprivileged scholars across the land!

And now, that very path lay right before him!

“Imperial examinations for official positions, imperial examinations!”

“What an extraordinary idea!”

“It can weaken the influence of noble clans on the imperial court and nation; enable the selection of talent from throughout the realm; provide opportunities for disadvantaged scholars to showcase their abilities!”

“An opportunity countless scholars throughout history have sought but never found!”

“So this is the answer, and it’s remarkably simple!”

Guo Jia collapsed to the ground, tears streaming down his face, yet his heart was filled with pure joy.

He rejoiced for all the frustrated scholars across the land who had been denied their aspirations!

Liu Xie watched Guo Jia from the side, feeling a sense of pity towards him.

Though he couldn’t fully empathize, he understood Guo Jia’s emotions - a mix of happiness and sorrow.

Happiness because he finally discovered the solution, and sorrow because such a straightforward answer had eluded everyone from ancient times until now.

This neglect led countless impoverished scholars to live their lives in despair, unable to showcase their ambitions and talents even till death, dying with deep regrets.

Thus, Guo Jia rejoiced for future generations of scholars; mourned for those who came before them.

“Your Majesty, please forgive my emotional outburst.”

After sobbing for some time, Guo Jia shakily rose to his feet. Despite the wet tear tracks on his face, his eyes sparkled brilliantly.

“Erm, it’s alright if you need more time to cry. We won’t mention it to anyone,” Liu Xie offered awkwardly, attempting to comfort Guo Jia. However, as soon as he spoke, he felt it might have been better left unsaid.

Is this how you comfort someone? Guo Jia took a deep breath and said, “The proposed civil service examination reform Your Majesty mentioned is commendable, but it faces numerous challenges. Aside from resistance from aristocratic clans, even addressing the issue of educational materials seems insurmountable. Commoners cannot afford to study or purchase books.”

Liu Xie waved his hand dismissively. “Problems are meant to be solved; at least we have a goal worth striving for.”

“The foundation for civil service reform requires a prosperous nation where its people can eat well—a path that will take many years.”

Isn’t resolving issues like books straightforward? If he held absolute power, utilizing papermaking and printing techniques to make books widely available would be remarkably easy.

The true key to implementing the civil service system lies in national stability, a strong imperial army as protection, and robust economic development.

Material foundations determine the superstructure.

In full agreement, Guo Jia affirmed, “Your Majesty speaks wisely. If one generation cannot achieve it, let two generations strive; if not two, then three!”

“I pledge my assistance to Your Majesty, to vanquish traitors and revive the Han Dynasty!” With these words, Guo Jia knelt before Liu Xie and bowed deeply, his forehead striking the floor with force.

The resonant sound echoed throughout the Great Hall.

Guo Jia understood well that implementing the imperial examination system would face numerous challenges and limitations. Nevertheless, he was determined to give it his all!

This sudden gesture left Liu Xie momentarily stunned. How did their conversation lead to Guo Jia kneeling and bowing deeply?

“Wait… Is he pledging allegiance to me?” Liu Xie suddenly realized.

But why? He hadn’t done anything extraordinary. Upon reflection, Liu Xie recalled merely discussing casually with Guo Jia, briefly explaining the concept of the imperial examination system to this ancient man, painting an illusionary grand vision. Yet, the impact seemed surprisingly positive—so much so that Liu Xie began suspecting if Guo Jia might be trying to trick him.

After a brief moment of hesitation, Liu Xie cautiously asked, “Do you truly mean what you said?”

With a solemn expression, Guo Jia replied, “Let Heaven bear witness, and may my ancestors look upon me - Guo Jia swears to assist Your Majesty in restoring the Han Dynasty and vanquishing traitors until death!”

“If I betray this oath, let not Heaven favor me!

“My only request is that once Your Majesty regains full power, implement the imperial examination system, thereby opening opportunities for scholars from humble origins across the land!”

His words resonated firmly, carrying great conviction.