Otherwise, let alone Lian Zining's nephew, even Lian Zining's three sons might not have been known to the emperor or the crown prince.

Ultimately, it meant becoming a second-class Jinshi (a successful candidate in the highest imperial examinations), which was certainly a prestigious honor. However, this wasn't the most eye-catching achievement, and the career path was relatively unremarkable. A county magistrate was a low-level official in the Ming Dynasty; unless one had outstanding political achievements, how could the emperor possibly know about them?

It is foreseeable that once Lian Zining retires, his sons and even nephews, as long as they achieve even a little political success, can be promoted immediately. Even if they don't become heads of the Six Ministries, with a little effort, they might still have the opportunity to "enter the inner sanctum" and become fourth-rank officials qualified to attend court, thus becoming high-ranking officials in name only.

It seems that this has greatly affected Lian Zining's career, but Lian Zining is already a high-ranking official. In addition, given the various obvious advantages and hidden benefits brought by the Lian clan, Lian Zining has never felt wronged.

In truth, getting Little Zhu to communicate with Lian Zining was quite difficult. Little Zhu himself wasn't interested in the Four Books and Five Classics, and his understanding and experience of court affairs were limited. Moreover, even if Lian Zining knew Little Zhu's position was secure, there were many things that couldn't be discussed in depth with the Crown Prince.

Although the atmosphere didn't seem particularly lively, it didn't matter much. Both Xiao Zhu and Lian Zining were already quite used to this kind of atmosphere.

There's no need to say more about Lian Zining; he's a high-ranking official in the court, and he's experienced all sorts of situations. This little situation is absolutely nothing to him, and in fact, to be considerate of the Crown Prince's feelings, Lian Zining can even find some topics to discuss.

As for Xiao Xiao Zhu, needless to say, his identity is special, so he doesn't really need to care about other people's feelings most of the time. It's mostly others who consider Xiao Xiao Zhu's feelings and just revolve around him.

When Lian Zining's three sons arrived, they were naturally filled with excitement and anticipation. To be able to appear before the Crown Prince was an honor in itself. If they performed exceptionally well and were remembered by the Crown Prince, their future prospects would be even better.

Even though their father was Lian Zining, it didn't mean they would have the opportunity to see the emperor or the crown prince at any time, a fact that Lian Zining's three sons were well aware of.

Looking at Lian Zining's eldest son, Xiao Zhu asked directly, "Are you the head of the Ministry of Revenue?"

Lian Cheng knelt and respectfully replied, "Your Highness, I was a Jinshi in the first year of the Ying Shi era. I was initially appointed as a Doctor of the Five Classics in the Hanlin Academy. In the third year, I was promoted to Right Attendant of the Ministry of Revenue. At the beginning of this year, I was promoted to Principal of the Huguang Qingli Division of the Ministry of Revenue."

It can be said that Lian Chengjing's official career was relatively stable. Other second-class Jinshi (successful candidates in the highest imperial examinations) who ranked around the same level as him were either still working in the Hanlin Academy or holding minor official positions. Unlike Lian Chengjing, who is now a sixth-rank official in the Ministry of Revenue.

This is a powerful official position. To put it bluntly, given his age and abilities, becoming a Minister of the Six Ministries is unlikely. However, it's quite possible that he could become a Vice Minister of the Six Ministries.

Remembering something, Little Zhu said, "Your Majesty is very busy with state affairs. Your Majesty also intends to reinstate the position of Grand Secretaries. You have some talent and practical experience, so you can serve Your Majesty."

If we're talking about the best tool, Little Zhu definitely qualifies as one of Zhu Yunying's best. Many things are effectively leaked through Little Zhu. Even these unofficial rumors can bring Zhu Yunying even greater assistance.

Zhu Yunying wanted to establish a cabinet, so he naturally had to consider re-establishing the position of Grand Secretary of the Hall of Literary Glory, which was the emperor's senior secretary, previously a fifth-rank official position.

The rumors circulating from the Crown Prince can excite many people and allow some to begin preparations in advance.

Putting aside the matter of another promotion, being able to serve His Majesty is a rare opportunity in itself. Moreover, being able to be available for His Majesty's inquiries at any time is also a very good opportunity to demonstrate one's abilities, making it relatively easier to gain His Majesty's recognition and attention.

Lian Zining's heart stirred. He knew that His Majesty seemed to have some thoughts. His Majesty had previously mentioned, either openly or indirectly, the reinstatement of the position of Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame, seemingly still intending to give the Grand Secretary of the Hall of Fame some power.

Many people also feel that this may be a further restriction on the Six Ministers, after all, His Majesty had previously promoted the rank of the Six Ministers, who are now of the first rank, which is a rank higher than the second rank at the beginning of the dynasty.

But looking at it now, promoting civil officials is not compensation for dismissing the prime minister, nor is it a way to restrain the military clique, because His Majesty clearly has other plans.

Although Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Imperial Sacrifices may seem like only fifth-rank officials, once they are able to serve by His Majesty's side and even gain the authority granted to them, they can easily rise to prominence quickly, and their influence in the court will increase significantly.

However, these measures might also serve to limit the power of the Six Ministers. And these civil officials, such as the Six Ministers, could effectively suppress the Grand Secretaries of the Hall of Literary Brilliance.

He is, after all, an emperor, and is adept at the art of checks and balances. The current emperor is one who likes to plan for the long term; the reasons behind his moves now may not become clear for several years.

However, Lian Zining didn't say much at this point. There was no need to say anything then; some things were best left unsaid. It was better to prepare early; these things weren't just for herself, but also for her family.

Of course, this also involves the interests of the civil service group, which can be prepared for in advance.

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