Chapter 193

Everyone was stunned on the spot, unable to recover their senses for a long time.

They didn't even know when Li Er had left.

It is unknown how much time had passed.

Finally, someone woke up.

Some wept bitterly, while others shook their heads and sighed.

But those who were truly awakened were, after all, in the minority.

Many aristocratic officials not only felt no shame, but instead believed that Li Er had been frightened out of his wits.

"This is truly outrageous! His Majesty is acting arbitrarily today; we absolutely must not let him behave so recklessly!"

"Well said. As ministers of the Great Tang, pointing out His Majesty's errors and shortcomings is our duty!"

"Right! We must submit a joint memorial; we absolutely cannot let His Majesty continue to make mistake after mistake!"

These ministers were panting heavily, one by one, discussing it angrily.

In fact.

This was merely a superficial excuse.

What loyalty?

What ministers?

They were simply worried that the reforms would touch upon their own family interests!

A war between the aristocratic families and imperial power had finally slowly begun!

Within a few days.

Memorials from the 29 departments of the imperial court drifted into the palace like snowflakes.

"Your Majesty, Vice Minister of Works Cui Lin has submitted a memorial, earnestly requesting Your Majesty to retract the reform decree and return from the wrong path, otherwise he will resign and return to his hometown!"

"Reporting to Your Majesty, Director of the Ministry of Revenue Lu Bingcheng has submitted a memorial, stating that his parents are of advanced age and earnestly requesting Your Majesty to allow him to resign and return to his hometown to fulfill his filial duties."

"Your Majesty, Minister of Rites Wang Hao has submitted a memorial stating that the reform is ill-timed, and requests Your Majesty to think thrice, otherwise you will regret it too late!"

"Your Majesty, Assistant Minister of Justice Xiao Cu has submitted a memorial..."

"Your Majesty, Vice Minister of Personnel Li Fu has submitted a memorial..."

Heavy memorials were piled up on Li Er's imperial desk, almost reaching his own height.