from poisoning; it could only be classified as an accidental death. As for the ashes, they were burned too thoroughly to reveal anything valuable.”Li Chen's eyes narrowed.He stopped, his eyes fixed i...Chapter 553: The Authority of Mr. Mirror

The administrative system of the Qin Empire consisted of eighteen ranks, ranging from the lowest ninth rank to the highest first rank. Above these ranks were three positions: Taishi (Grand Master), Taifu (Grand Preceptor), and Taibo (Grand Guardian). In addition, there were three junior positions: Shaoshi (Junior Master), Shaofu (Junior Preceptor), and Shaobao (Junior Guardian).

Whether it's the Sanshi (Three Masters) or the San Gu (Three Hermits), they essentially have no real power. They are honorary titles, equivalent to reaching the highest level of officialdom.

And in order to control the power of its subjects, the Qin court had not granted any new titles of the Three Masters and Three Lonely Ones for over two hundred years.

Therefore, as it stands now, being a first rank official, entering the cabinet, and receiving the additional title of special envoy with honors of grand secretary is already the highest honor an official can achieve.

Even ordinary officials, even those who came from the imperial examinations, started as county magistrates, the lowest rank being the seventh rank. However, the vast Qin Empire had a large number of officials spread across its territory.

Even starting from the lowest rank, the seventh rank, there are a full thirteen steps to reach the highest rank, the first rank. Most people in their lifetime would be lucky to reach the fourth rank, and retiring as a third rank official is considered a rare achievement.

This is still a situation where there are official ranks and titles, and the promotion path is much better than that of ordinary people who are recommended or nominated to enter government service.

It's a source of pride, not just for the family but also for the entire province where someone hails from, to have produced a high-ranking official.

To describe him as bringing honor and glory to his ancestors would be an understatement.

Look at the few grand scholars in the cabinet today, including Zhao Xuanji. Which one hasn't spent a lifetime battling in the officialdom and political arena, surviving countless enemies and storms of blood and violence by relying on their ability, luck, and talent

He could enter the cabinet directly upon taking office and hold a rank of first-class official. Such favor is unprecedented in nearly a century.

But look at that person, everyone's hidden thoughts were quelled.

Such favor is indeed unprecedented in a hundred years, but apart from Dantai Jingzhi, has there ever been anyone else like him in all these centuries

This thought put everyone's minds at ease.

After all, there is only one Dantai Jing in the world.

"I, Dantai Jingzhi, bow in gratitude to Heaven's grace!"

In the silence, Dantai Jing raised both hands above her head before bowing to the ground.

This declaration of allegiance represented Daimiao Jing's official entry into service, and signified the successful placement of Li Chen's first pawn within the imperial court's cabinet.

From the beginning, there was no room for intervention in politics, and now, with people loyal to him in the cabinet, Li Chen feels satisfied.

At this rate, it's only a matter of time before Zhao Xuanji is overthrown.

After succeeding Daitan Jing, Li Chen knew what he wanted to see, so instead of taking him directly to the East Palace, he pulled him towards the more secluded south city.

In the prince's palanquin, Li Chen said to Dantai Jingzhi, "I have already ordered someone to prepare a house for you in the capital city. It is located next to Hubei Sea in the capital. Although it is not as vast and magnificent as the one by Weihaiwei, it is more peaceful and tranquil. If you arrive during the spring and summer seasons, the scenery will be even more beautiful with birdsong and flowers blooming everywhere, most fitting for a man like you who transcends worldly affairs."

Li Chen had been so considerate, so naturally Dantang Jingzhi wanted to reciprocate.

He bowed and said, "Your Highness is too kind. I am unworthy of such consideration."

How could I possibly feel guilty You were brought here specifically to be my target against Zhao Xuanji.

Li Chen was just about to say a few kind words when he heard the shouts of the crowd surging outside the carriage.

"Master Mirror!"

"Mr. Mirror, come out and let us have a look!"

"That's right, Mr. Mirror! You are a living saint in our eyes!"e. This level of shock held little impact for him.Then, the next thing Zhou Ping'an said made him furious. He pointed at the crisscrossed wounds on his body and said: "These injuries, he inflicted the...