In the imperial study, Lin Xiu Wen was reviewing memorials.
"Your Majesty," Su Wanqing entered with a tray of tea, "it's time to take a break."
Lin Xiu Wen looked up and noticed that Ashide and Liu Rumei were following her.
"What brings you here?" he asked, somewhat surprised.
Ashide smiled, "We came to bring some snacks for Your Majesty."
Liu Rumei walked directly to the map on the wall. "Your Majesty, I have some thoughts regarding the specific plans for the Northern Autonomous Region."
Lin Xiu Wen set down his red brush. "Let's hear them."
Liu Rumei pointed at the map. "The customs of the various tribes in the Northern Border differ greatly. If we force a unified administration, it could lead to unrest. It would be better to govern by division..."
Su Wanqing interjected, "Establish multiple autonomous prefectures governed by the tribal leaders, but they must accept the court's authority."
Ashide nodded in agreement. "Exactly. We can also promote trade and intermarriage to enhance communication."
A glimmer of appreciation flashed in Lin Xiu Wen's eyes. "Good idea! However..." He turned to Ashide, "Is the Khan willing to relinquish some power?"
Ashide replied calmly, "For the long-term peace of the Northern Border, I am willing."
At that moment, the Eunuch Supervisor hurried in. "Your Majesty, the Minister of Revenue requests an audience."
Lin Xiu Wen frowned. "So late..."
Su Wanqing softly remarked, "It must be about the new policies."
Indeed, as soon as the Minister of Revenue entered, he began lamenting, "Your Majesty, implementing the new policies requires a substantial amount of silver. The National Treasury may not be able to..."
Lin Xiu Wen had anticipated this. "There is no need for concern, my minister. I have already devised strategies for increasing revenue and cutting expenses."
He unfolded a memorial. "First, we will reduce unnecessary officials and cut expenditures. Second, we will lift maritime restrictions to increase tax revenue. Finally..." He looked at Ashide, "We will open trade routes in the Northern Border."
Ashide understood immediately. "The Northern Border is rich in furs and medicinal materials; if we can establish trade with Da Zhou, it will surely replenish the National Treasury."
The Minister of Revenue's eyes brightened. "A brilliant plan!"
As the new policies were implemented, they sent ripples through both court and society. Some conservative ministers secretly conspired to obstruct these reforms.
During the morning court session, an elderly minister stepped forward. "Your Majesty, I believe that abolishing redundant officials may harm the foundation of the nation..."
Just as Lin Xiu Wen was about to speak, Su Wanqing suddenly emerged from behind the screen. "Esteemed Minister, do you know what redundant officials are?"
The ministers gasped in shock. The Empress intervening in court matters was a serious taboo!
Lin Xiu Wen, however, smiled and said, "What insights does the Empress have?"
Su Wanqing replied, neither humble nor arrogant, "Redundant officials refer to those who hold positions without contributing anything of value. Keeping them is what truly harms the nation's foundation."
The elderly minister was left speechless.
After the court session, Lin Xiu Wen took Su Wanqing's hand. "Wanqing, today I owe you a great deal."
Su Wanqing shook her head. "Your Majesty, I have a request."
"Speak."
"I wish to establish a women's academy," Su Wanqing said, "so that women across the land can also learn to read and understand."
Lin Xiu Wen's eyes lit up. "What a wonderful idea! However..."
"There is no need for concern, Your Majesty," Liu Rumei suddenly interjected. "I can take charge of the martial arts curriculum for the academy."
Ashide chimed in as well, "I can teach about Northern Border culture."
Lin Xiu Wen looked at these three women with a heart full of emotion.
The establishment of the women's academy created a sensation throughout the court and beyond.
Some conservative ministers jointly submitted a petition opposing this initiative.
Just as Lin Xiu Wen was about to become furious, Su Wanqing smiled and said, "Your Majesty need not be angry. I have an idea."
She ordered that the daughters of those ministers be summoned to the palace.
"Dear young ladies," Su Wanqing said gently, "would you be willing to attend the women's academy?"
The young ladies had long envied men for their ability to study and gain knowledge, and they all nodded eagerly.
When news returned to their families, those ministers were instantly left speechless.
The women's academy flourished, and the atmosphere in the court began to change.
One day, while Lin Xiu Wen was reviewing memorials, he suddenly received an urgent report: A rebellion had erupted again in the southern border!
"Your Majesty, I am willing to lead the army to quell the rebellion!" Liu Rumei immediately declared.
Lin Xiu Wen shook his head, "No, this time I will personally lead the expedition."
At the same moment, Su Wanqing and Ashide spoke up, "We will go too!"
Lin Xiu Wen looked at the three women and suddenly smiled, "Alright, let’s go together."
On the battlefield in the southern frontier, Lin Xiu Wen strategized, Su Wanqing devised plans, Liu Rumei charged into battle, and Ashide coordinated with various divisions.
In just a month, the Rebellion was suppressed.
On the day of their triumphant return to court, the entire nation celebrated.
At the victory banquet, Lin Xiu Wen raised his cup and said, "Come, let us toast to peace in the world!"
The three women exchanged smiles and raised their cups together.
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