Chapter 153
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Chapter 153
As soon as the Law Regarding the Treatment of Non-Official Degree Holders, colloquially known as the Noble Law, was promulgated, a massive storm swept through the local officials all over Joseon.
We must submit a petition immediately! This is the worst of bad laws!
Right! Right!
The backlash from many local officials was natural as they saw the benefits they had taken for granted disappear.
It was inevitable that a stream of petitions once again flooded into Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Facing this influx of petitions, Sejong publicly criticized the officials backlash.
What is the purpose of the civil service examination? It is to select talents among those who wish to serve the country and its people!
The distribution of red and white badges to the exam passers and the provision of various benefits were intended to enable those who were unprepared to get ready and contribute to making Joseon stronger!
However, many are exploiting the countrys kindness for their own personal gain!
Therefore, the country will no longer show such kindness. Only those who truly wish to serve the nation and those who have served will be treated accordingly.
Sejongs public declaration that without official service, there will be no benefits infuriated the local officials.
Is this what a country is supposed to be!
What are the ministers doing? If the king is going astray, shouldnt they risk their lives to stop him!
Since the departure of former Chief State Councilor Ryu Jeong-hyeon, only cowards remain in the court!
Gathered at the Confucian academies under the pretext of offering sacrifices to the sages, the local officials, one and all, bitterly criticized Sejong and the ministers.
In the midst of this, praises for Ryu Jeong-hyeon and his supporters began to surface.
However, there were no outright acts of resistance. They knew they were losing in terms of moral high ground.
Thus, in secluded places, subversive talks began to circulate.
The kings tyranny is a sign of the nations downfall! To save Joseon, we must change the heavens!
We must restore the ousted legitimate heir of the former king!
If we think about it, the expulsion of the former kings legitimate heir was dubious! This surely indicates a conspiracy!
Among the local officials in the provinces, slanderous remarks began to circulate gradually.
Naturally, if these remarks were caught by the local authorities or reported, it would cause an uproar.
Therefore, the spread of these slanderous remarks was exceedingly slow.
Not all local officials in the provinces were engaged in such subversive activities.
Exactly! This is how it should be! This is the proper law!
Surprisingly, there were local officials who actively supported the laws promulgated by Sejong.
Those expressing support were mostly retired officials from the local aristocracy.
These officials, regardless of whether they were from the military or civil branches, were actively endorsing Sejongs laws.
They supported Sejongs decisions because, to them, the local aristocrats were an eyesore. L1tLagoon witnessed the first publication of this chapter on Ñøv€l--B1n.
While some are toiling away in the court, others are just sitting around filling their own bellies
And acting all high and mighty
Whats wrong with being a military official!
As mentioned before, those who had served in the bureaucracy and returned to their hometowns often faced considerable ostracism in the local gentry society.
Those who were ostracized welcomed Sejongs laws.
Now well see who the real nobles are!
***
Sejongs view of the local officials was straightforward.
The enemy of royal authority.
Thus, Sejong aggressively implemented reform policies to corner the local officials.
The intensity of these measures was such that even Hyang, who tended to view the local officials negatively due to his 21st-century memories, felt a sense of crisis.
Isnt this dangerous?
Ultimately, Hyang sought an audience with Sejong.
Let the historians leave for a moment.
After sending out the historians, Hyang instructed the inner court officials.
Likely, the historians will cling to the door. Make sure they are sent far away.
Yes, Your Highness.
And you all wait outside the door.
Upon Hyangs command, Chief Eunuch looked at Sejong. Sejong responded to the unspoken question.
Follow the Crown Princes order.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Seeing Hyangs expression, Sejong smiled slightly and continued,
And this is in line with the political views youve expressed before, isnt it?
Yes.
What Im doing now is removing the obstacles between the king and the people.
What do you mean by obstacles?
True scholars who learn the way of the sages should enlighten and awaken the people. But instead of doing so, they are exploiting the people. Such people are only useless barriers. I will remove these barriers and enlighten the people.
As Sejong explained his intentions, he looked at Hyang.
For more people to be enlightened, we must create a new script. The current Chinese characters only lead to the monopoly of knowledge.
Thats true.
Hyang strongly nodded in agreement with Sejongs point.
Well, its getting late. Lets rest for today.
Yes, Your Majesty. Have a peaceful nights sleep.
***
Upon leaving Kangnyeongjeon, Hyang looked back at the hall and murmured softly.
Listening to Father, it seems hes determined I just hope things dont get too out of hand.
Hyang couldnt hide his worry over Sejongs firm stance against the local officials and sighed deeply.
Phew I just hope everything goes smoothly.
As he headed back to the Eastern Palace, Hyang continued to organize his thoughts.
At least one positive aspect is that Father is still committed to creating a new script. Considering the materials weve procured so far, there must be significant progress After this issue settles, I can subtly offer advice.
At the same time, Sejong, now in his nightclothes, looked in the direction of Eastern Palace and mumbled,
Judging by his reaction when I brought it up, he seems to have thought about the creation of a new script to some extent. Once this matter is resolved, and theres more leeway in the research institute and Area 51, I should involve him in the work. A little help from him when we hit a snag should wrap things up quickly.
The father and son, thinking differently while lying in the same bed, were a perfect example of same bed, different dreams.
***
While the local officials were stirring in the provinces, an undercurrent was also flowing in Hanyang.
Sir Leader.
What is it?
The leader of the secret police in Dadoong looked up as his subordinate approached.
Whats up? Is there something?
At the leaders inquiry, the subordinate cautiously spoke up.
Recently, some strange characters seem to be entering Hanyang.
Strange characters?
Yes, they seem to be from our line of work, but they dont appear to be affiliated with Bukchon or Unjongga.
Huh?
The leaders face grew serious at the subordinates words.
If the subordinate referred to them as eating the same rice, it implied that these strangers were either private soldiers or part of their own secret police network. The issue was that they were not recognizable faces.
The leader of the secret police was well aware that the current atmosphere outside Hanyang was not normal.
I have a bad feeling about this
After pondering for a moment, the leader stood up.
I will pay a visit to Bukchon and Unjongga. Meanwhile, gather our men and see if you can find more of these characters.
Yes. And if we find them, well see where theyre heading.
Yes.
***
In a gisaeng house in Bukchon. The leaders of the secret police, who held sway over Hanyangs nightlife, gathered together.
so I told the guys to follow them.
After hearing the leader from Dadoong, the leader from Unjongga joined in.
Our guys are saying something similar. Theyve seen a few suspicious characters around the Unjongga guesthouses.
Hmm
The leaders from Dadoong and Unjonggas words made the leader of Bukchon stroke his chin thoughtfully.
Its true that the current state of affairs is a bit problematic.
Sensing the gravity of the situation, the Bukchon leader looked around at the other leaders.
Lets report this to the higher-ups.
Please report us if you find any errors so we can fix it asap!
Chapter 153
As soon as the Law Regarding the Treatment of Non-Official Degree Holders, colloquially known as the Noble Law, was promulgated, a massive storm swept through the local officials all over Joseon.
We must submit a petition immediately! This is the worst of bad laws!
Right! Right!
The backlash from many local officials was natural as they saw the benefits they had taken for granted disappear.
It was inevitable that a stream of petitions once again flooded into Gyeongbokgung Palace.
Facing this influx of petitions, Sejong publicly criticized the officials backlash.
What is the purpose of the civil service examination? It is to select talents among those who wish to serve the country and its people!
The distribution of red and white badges to the exam passers and the provision of various benefits were intended to enable those who were unprepared to get ready and contribute to making Joseon stronger!
However, many are exploiting the countrys kindness for their own personal gain!
Therefore, the country will no longer show such kindness. Only those who truly wish to serve the nation and those who have served will be treated accordingly.
Sejongs public declaration that without official service, there will be no benefits infuriated the local officials.
Is this what a country is supposed to be!
What are the ministers doing? If the king is going astray, shouldnt they risk their lives to stop him!
Since the departure of former Chief State Councilor Ryu Jeong-hyeon, only cowards remain in the court!
Gathered at the Confucian academies under the pretext of offering sacrifices to the sages, the local officials, one and all, bitterly criticized Sejong and the ministers.
In the midst of this, praises for Ryu Jeong-hyeon and his supporters began to surface.
However, there were no outright acts of resistance. They knew they were losing in terms of moral high ground.
Thus, in secluded places, subversive talks began to circulate.
The kings tyranny is a sign of the nations downfall! To save Joseon, we must change the heavens!
We must restore the ousted legitimate heir of the former king!
If we think about it, the expulsion of the former kings legitimate heir was dubious! This surely indicates a conspiracy!
Among the local officials in the provinces, slanderous remarks began to circulate gradually.
Naturally, if these remarks were caught by the local authorities or reported, it would cause an uproar.
Therefore, the spread of these slanderous remarks was exceedingly slow.
Not all local officials in the provinces were engaged in such subversive activities.
Exactly! This is how it should be! This is the proper law!
Surprisingly, there were local officials who actively supported the laws promulgated by Sejong.
Those expressing support were mostly retired officials from the local aristocracy.
These officials, regardless of whether they were from the military or civil branches, were actively endorsing Sejongs laws.
They supported Sejongs decisions because, to them, the local aristocrats were an eyesore. L1tLagoon witnessed the first publication of this chapter on Ñøv€l--B1n.
While some are toiling away in the court, others are just sitting around filling their own bellies
And acting all high and mighty
Whats wrong with being a military official!
As mentioned before, those who had served in the bureaucracy and returned to their hometowns often faced considerable ostracism in the local gentry society.
Those who were ostracized welcomed Sejongs laws.
Now well see who the real nobles are!
***
Sejongs view of the local officials was straightforward.
The enemy of royal authority.
Thus, Sejong aggressively implemented reform policies to corner the local officials.
The intensity of these measures was such that even Hyang, who tended to view the local officials negatively due to his 21st-century memories, felt a sense of crisis.
Isnt this dangerous?
Ultimately, Hyang sought an audience with Sejong.
Let the historians leave for a moment.
After sending out the historians, Hyang instructed the inner court officials.
Likely, the historians will cling to the door. Make sure they are sent far away.
Yes, Your Highness.
And you all wait outside the door.
Upon Hyangs command, Chief Eunuch looked at Sejong. Sejong responded to the unspoken question.
Follow the Crown Princes order.
Yes, Your Majesty.
Seeing Hyangs expression, Sejong smiled slightly and continued,
And this is in line with the political views youve expressed before, isnt it?
Yes.
What Im doing now is removing the obstacles between the king and the people.
What do you mean by obstacles?
True scholars who learn the way of the sages should enlighten and awaken the people. But instead of doing so, they are exploiting the people. Such people are only useless barriers. I will remove these barriers and enlighten the people.
As Sejong explained his intentions, he looked at Hyang.
For more people to be enlightened, we must create a new script. The current Chinese characters only lead to the monopoly of knowledge.
Thats true.
Hyang strongly nodded in agreement with Sejongs point.
Well, its getting late. Lets rest for today.
Yes, Your Majesty. Have a peaceful nights sleep.
***
Upon leaving Kangnyeongjeon, Hyang looked back at the hall and murmured softly.
Listening to Father, it seems hes determined I just hope things dont get too out of hand.
Hyang couldnt hide his worry over Sejongs firm stance against the local officials and sighed deeply.
Phew I just hope everything goes smoothly.
As he headed back to the Eastern Palace, Hyang continued to organize his thoughts.
At least one positive aspect is that Father is still committed to creating a new script. Considering the materials weve procured so far, there must be significant progress After this issue settles, I can subtly offer advice.
At the same time, Sejong, now in his nightclothes, looked in the direction of Eastern Palace and mumbled,
Judging by his reaction when I brought it up, he seems to have thought about the creation of a new script to some extent. Once this matter is resolved, and theres more leeway in the research institute and Area 51, I should involve him in the work. A little help from him when we hit a snag should wrap things up quickly.
The father and son, thinking differently while lying in the same bed, were a perfect example of same bed, different dreams.
***
While the local officials were stirring in the provinces, an undercurrent was also flowing in Hanyang.
Sir Leader.
What is it?
The leader of the secret police in Dadoong looked up as his subordinate approached.
Whats up? Is there something?
At the leaders inquiry, the subordinate cautiously spoke up.
Recently, some strange characters seem to be entering Hanyang.
Strange characters?
Yes, they seem to be from our line of work, but they dont appear to be affiliated with Bukchon or Unjongga.
Huh?
The leaders face grew serious at the subordinates words.
If the subordinate referred to them as eating the same rice, it implied that these strangers were either private soldiers or part of their own secret police network. The issue was that they were not recognizable faces.
The leader of the secret police was well aware that the current atmosphere outside Hanyang was not normal.
I have a bad feeling about this
After pondering for a moment, the leader stood up.
I will pay a visit to Bukchon and Unjongga. Meanwhile, gather our men and see if you can find more of these characters.
Yes. And if we find them, well see where theyre heading.
Yes.
***
In a gisaeng house in Bukchon. The leaders of the secret police, who held sway over Hanyangs nightlife, gathered together.
so I told the guys to follow them.
After hearing the leader from Dadoong, the leader from Unjongga joined in.
Our guys are saying something similar. Theyve seen a few suspicious characters around the Unjongga guesthouses.
Hmm
The leaders from Dadoong and Unjonggas words made the leader of Bukchon stroke his chin thoughtfully.
Its true that the current state of affairs is a bit problematic.
Sensing the gravity of the situation, the Bukchon leader looked around at the other leaders.
Lets report this to the higher-ups.
Chapter 153As soon as the Law Regarding the Treatment of Non-Official Degree Holders, colloquially known as the Noble Law, was promulgated, a massive storm swept through the local officials all over Joseon. We must submit a petition immediately! This is the worst of bad laws! Right! Right! The backlash from many local officials was natural as they saw the benefits they had taken for granted disappear. It was inevitable that a stream of petitions once again flooded into Gyeongbokgung Palace. Facing this influx of petitions, Sejong publicly criticized the officials backlash. What is the purpose of the civil service examination? It is to select talents among those who wish to serve the country and its people! The distribution of red and white badges to the exam passers and the provision of various benefits were intended to enable those who were unprepared to get ready and contribute to making Joseon stronger! However, many are exploiting the countrys kindness for their own personal gain! Therefore, the country will no longer show such kindness. Only those who truly wish to serve the nation and those who have served will be treated accordingly. Sejongs public declaration that without official service, there will be no benefits infuriated the local officials. Is this what a country is supposed to be! What are the ministers doing? If the king is going astray, shouldnt they risk their lives to stop him! Since the departure of former Chief State Councilor Ryu Jeong-hyeon, only cowards remain in the court! Gathered at the Confucian academies under the pretext of offering sacrifices to the sages, the local officials, one and all, bitterly criticized Sejong and the ministers. In the midst of this, praises for Ryu Jeong-hyeon and his supporters began to surface. However, there were no outright acts of resistance. They knew they were losing in terms of moral high ground. Thus, in secluded places, subversive talks began to circulate. The kings tyranny is a sign of the nations downfall! To save Joseon, we must change the heavens! We must restore the ousted legitimate heir of the former king! If we think about it, the expulsion of the former kings legitimate heir was dubious! This surely indicates a conspiracy! Among the local officials in the provinces, slanderous remarks began to circulate gradually. Naturally, if these remarks were caught by the local authorities or reported, it would cause an uproar. Therefore, the spread of these slanderous remarks was exceedingly slow. Not all local officials in the provinces were engaged in such subversive activities. Exactly! This is how it should be! This is the proper law! Surprisingly, there were local officials who actively supported the laws promulgated by Sejong. Those expressing support were mostly retired officials from the local aristocracy. These officials, regardless of whether they were from the military or civil branches, were actively endorsing Sejongs laws. They supported Sejongs decisions because, to them, the local aristocrats were an eyesore. L1tLagoon witnessed the first publication of this chapter on Nvl--B1n.While some are toiling away in the court, others are just sitting around filling their own bellies And acting all high and mighty Whats wrong with being a military official! As mentioned before, those who had served in the bureaucracy and returned to their hometowns often faced considerable ostracism in the local gentry society. Those who were ostracized welcomed Sejongs laws. Now well see who the real nobles are! *** Sejongs view of the local officials was straightforward. The enemy of royal authority. Thus, Sejong aggressively implemented reform policies to corner the local officials. The intensity of these measures was such that even Hyang, who tended to view the local officials negatively due to his 21st-century memories, felt a sense of crisis. Isnt this dangerous? Ultimately, Hyang sought an audience with Sejong. Let the historians leave for a moment. After sending out the historians, Hyang instructed the inner court officials. Likely, the historians will cling to the door. Make sure they are sent far away. Yes, Your Highness. And you all wait outside the door. Upon Hyangs command, Chief Eunuch looked at Sejong. Sejong responded to the unspoken question. Follow the Crown Princes order. Yes, Your Majesty. Seeing Hyangs expression, Sejong smiled slightly and continued, And this is in line with the political views youve expressed before, isnt it? Yes. What Im doing now is removing the obstacles between the king and the people. What do you mean by obstacles? True scholars who learn the way of the sages should enlighten and awaken the people. But instead of doing so, they are exploiting the people. Such people are only useless barriers. I will remove these barriers and enlighten the people. As Sejong explained his intentions, he looked at Hyang. For more people to be enlightened, we must create a new script. The current Chinese characters only lead to the monopoly of knowledge. Thats true. Hyang strongly nodded in agreement with Sejongs point. Well, its getting late. Lets rest for today. Yes, Your Majesty. Have a peaceful nights sleep. *** Upon leaving Kangnyeongjeon, Hyang looked back at the hall and murmured softly. Listening to Father, it seems hes determined I just hope things dont get too out of hand. Hyang couldnt hide his worry over Sejongs firm stance against the local officials and sighed deeply. Phew I just hope everything goes smoothly. As he headed back to the Eastern Palace, Hyang continued to organize his thoughts. At least one positive aspect is that Father is still committed to creating a new script. Considering the materials weve procured so far, there must be significant progress After this issue settles, I can subtly offer advice. At the same time, Sejong, now in his nightclothes, looked in the direction of Eastern Palace and mumbled, Judging by his reaction when I brought it up, he seems to have thought about the creation of a new script to some extent. Once this matter is resolved, and theres more leeway in the research institute and Area 51, I should involve him in the work. A little help from him when we hit a snag should wrap things up quickly. The father and son, thinking differently while lying in the same bed, were a perfect example of same bed, different dreams. *** While the local officials were stirring in the provinces, an undercurrent was also flowing in Hanyang. Sir Leader. What is it? The leader of the secret police in Dadoong looked up as his subordinate approached. Whats up? Is there something? At the leaders inquiry, the subordinate cautiously spoke up. Recently, some strange characters seem to be entering Hanyang. Strange characters? Yes, they seem to be from our line of work, but they dont appear to be affiliated with Bukchon or Unjongga. Huh? The leaders face grew serious at the subordinates words. If the subordinate referred to them as eating the same rice, it implied that these strangers were either private soldiers or part of their own secret police network. The issue was that they were not recognizable faces. The leader of the secret police was well aware that the current atmosphere outside Hanyang was not normal. I have a bad feeling about this After pondering for a moment, the leader stood up. I will pay a visit to Bukchon and Unjongga. Meanwhile, gather our men and see if you can find more of these characters. Yes. And if we find them, well see where theyre heading. Yes. *** In a gisaeng house in Bukchon. The leaders of the secret police, who held sway over Hanyangs nightlife, gathered together. so I told the guys to follow them. After hearing the leader from Dadoong, the leader from Unjongga joined in. Our guys are saying something similar. Theyve seen a few suspicious characters around the Unjongga guesthouses. Hmm The leaders from Dadoong and Unjonggas words made the leader of Bukchon stroke his chin thoughtfully. Its true that the current state of affairs is a bit problematic. Sensing the gravity of the situation, the Bukchon leader looked around at the other leaders. Lets report this to the higher-ups.
