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MidReal Story
The Last Eunuch In Heaven
Scenario:我轉世成了慈禧，我應怎麼樣權傾朝野又拯救大清
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Empress Dowager Cixi
She is the powerful and influential Empress Dowager of the Qing Dynasty. She is determined, manipulative, and powerful. Cixi rose to power after the death of the Emperor Guangxu, her son. She controlled all political and military decisions, acting as regent for her son Emperor Tongzhi and later Emperor Guangzhou. Her reign was marked by conflicts, such as the First SinoAfrican War, and domestic challenges, like the Boxer Rebellion. She died in 1908, leaving behind a complex legacy.
Guangxu Emperor
He is the son of Empress Cixi and serves as Emperor from 1908 to 1912. He is obedient, naive, and powerless. Guangxu was declared emperor at birth due to his father's death shortly after childbirth. Under his mother's control, he was kept isolated from politics, with Empress Cixie making all decisions on his behalf. His reign saw significant changes in China as the country opened up to the world. Guangxu's inability to act independently highlighted his impotence in face of his mother's dominance.
Tongzhi Emperor
He is the son of Empress Cixi and serves as Emperor from 1861 to 1875. He is weakwilled, obedient, and ineffective. Tongzhi struggled with mental health issues and left power in the hands of his mother, Empress Cixi. His reign was marked by political turmoil, with power concentrated in Empress Cixi’s hands through control over the government and military. Despite being emperor nominally, Tongzhi played little role in governance, allowing his mother to dictate Chinese politics and decisions.
I was reborn as Empress Cixi.
When I first opened my eyes, I was lying in a coffin.
I had died and been reborn.
The death of Emperor Guangxu, my son, was the beginning of my power.
At that time, I was already over sixty years old, but I looked like I was only forty years old.
The court was in chaos.
Emperor Guangxu had died without leaving an heir.
The officials were divided into two factions: one faction wanted to install Puyi, the grandson of Emperor Guangxu, as the emperor; the other faction wanted to install Pujie, the son of Shaoyi, as the emperor.
I stood above the factions and made all the decisions.
As soon as Emperor Guangxu died, I took control of the court.
I did not allow anyone to see the body of Emperor Guangxu except for Yuan Shikai, who had been secretly working with me for many years.
Yuan Shikai was a man of great ambition.
He had risen from a lowly position to become a general and eventually seized control of the Beiyang Army, the most powerful army in China at the time.
I summoned Weng Tonghui, my most trusted advisor, to my private chambers in the dead of night.
We spoke in hushed tones, our voices barely audible over the sound of the wind outside.
"The officials are divided," I said to him.
"We need to know who we can trust."
Weng nodded.
"I have made a list of those who are loyal to us," he said.
"But we need to be careful. There are many who would betray us if given the chance."
I nodded.
"Arrange for them to meet me in the Moon Pavilion in the imperial garden. One at a time, and make sure they come alone."
Weng bowed.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Over the next three days, I met with each of the officials on Weng's list.
I offered them land, titles, and gold in exchange for their loyalty.
Some were eager to accept my offers, while others were more hesitant.
But I knew how to persuade them.
I had lived long enough to know that everyone had something they wanted, something they would do anything for. The first official I met was Minister Zhang.
He was a tall, thin man with a gaunt face and sunken eyes.
He bowed deeply when he entered the pavilion, his hands shaking slightly as he greeted me.
"Your Majesty," he said, his voice trembling.
"I am honored to be summoned by you."
I smiled at him, my eyes narrowing slightly as I studied his face.
"Minister Zhang," I said, my voice soft but commanding.
"I have heard that you are a man of great ambition. Is this true?"
Zhang swallowed hard, his Adam's apple bobbing up and down in his throat.
"Yes, Your Majesty," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
"I want nothing more than to serve you and the empire."
I leaned forward in my chair, my eyes locked on his.
"Good," I said.
"I have a proposition for you. If you swear your loyalty to me, I will give you land and titles beyond your wildest dreams."
Zhang's eyes widened slightly as he considered my offer.
But then he shook his head, his face clouding over with doubt. "I'm sorry, Your Majesty," he said, his voice filled with regret.
"But I cannot betray my fellow officials. They are my friends and comrades. I cannot turn against them."
I sighed inwardly as I watched Zhang's face fall into despair.
"Minister Zhang," I said, my voice steady, "loyalty to the empire sometimes requires difficult choices."
He hesitated, glancing around as if the shadows themselves might betray him.
"But what if my loyalty to you is discovered? It could mean my ruin."
The only light in the Moon Pavilion came from a single candle, casting flickering shadows on the walls.
I reached into my sleeve and pulled out a sealed letter.
I slid it across the table to Zhang, who took it with trembling hands.
He broke the seal and unfolded the letter, his eyes scanning the contents.
As he read, I watched his face contort with shock and disbelief.
The letter was detailed correspondence between his closest allies and my enemies.
It outlined their secret meetings, where they plotted against me and planned to overthrow me.
But what was most damning was their plan to implicate Zhang in their coup, using him as a scapegoat once they had succeeded.
Zhang's shoulders slumped in defeat as he finished reading the letter.
He placed it back on the table, his eyes filled with resignation.
"I have no choice," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
"I swear my loyalty to you."
I nodded, satisfied with his response.
"Very well," I said.
After Zhang's submission, I led him through the moonlit garden to a secluded pavilion where my trusted eunuchs awaited.
I handed him a detailed list of suspected conspirators - several high-ranking ministers and military commanders who had been secretly plotting against me.
Speaking in hushed tones, I explained how he should approach each target - which ones to befriend, which to pressure, and which to avoid entirely.
Zhang studied the names intently, occasionally glancing up with questions about specific individuals.
I emphasized the need for absolute discretion, warning that any leaked information would result in severe consequences.
Before dismissing him, I presented Zhang with a small jade pendant - both a reward and a reminder of his new allegiance.
As we walked back through the garden, Zhang paused, his voice tinged with newfound determination.
"Your Majesty, if I may ask, why did you choose me for this task?"
I turned to him, my gaze steady and unwavering. "Because, Minister Zhang, you have the most to lose—and the most to gain."
I watch Zhang's retreating form disappear into the shadows of the palace corridors, the jade pendant glinting briefly in the flickering lamplight.
Moving to my private chambers, I summon Weng Tonghui once more.
"See that our most trusted eunuchs are positioned near Zhang's residence and along his regular routes through the Forbidden City," I instruct him.
"Though he has pledged his loyalty, we must verify his actions."
Weng nods, his eyes gleaming with understanding.
"Your Majesty, we will know everything he does."
I stand by my window, gazing out at the pre-dawn sky.
The first hints of light touch the imperial roofs, casting a golden glow over the sprawling city.
The empire's fate now rested on a delicate balance of trust and vigilance.
Through the eyes of my spies, I see Zhang's carriage wind its way through the dark streets of Beijing, his silhouette visible through the windows.
He clutches the jade pendant tightly in his hand, his knuckles white with tension.
The carriage arrives at his residence, and he steps out, disappearing into the night.
Hours pass, and my spies report that Zhang paces in his study, occasionally stopping to examine the list of names I provided.
A servant brings him wine, and he drinks heavily, as if trying to drown his doubts.
As midnight approaches, Zhang pulls out paper and brush, beginning to write letters.
Exactly as I predicted.
One of my planted spies, disguised as a member of his household staff, signals through the window to Weng's men waiting outside.
"He's writing to the conspirators," the spy whispers urgently, his breath fogging the cold glass.
Weng's eyes narrow as he listens, then turns to his men. "Prepare to intercept those letters before they leave the premises."
"Yes, sir," they respond in unison, slipping silently into the shadows.
I summon the Grand Council to the Hall of Mental Cultivation at dawn.
The morning sun streams through the intricately carved windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the polished stone floor.
I sit behind a yellow silk screen, my shadow looming large over the gathered officials.
In measured tones, I address them.
"Emperor Guangxu's illness has rendered him unfit to rule. It is time for a new era."
Several ministers shift uncomfortably in their seats, but none dare speak.
I produce two imperial edicts, bearing Guangxu's seal - documents I had forced him to sign months ago, when his health was already in decline.
With deliberate slowness, I unfold the scrolls and hand them to the nearest official.
"Read these edicts aloud," I command.
The official's voice trembles slightly as he begins to read, his words echoing through the hall.
"The first edict declares that due to my poor health, I, Emperor Guangxu, appoint Empress Dowager Cixi as regent with full imperial authority. She shall oversee all matters of state until my recovery or the ascension of a new emperor."
The room falls silent, heavy with anticipation and unease.
Then, as if on cue, Minister Zhang rises from his seat and kneels before me, pressing his forehead to the cold stone floor.
"Your Majesty, I have intercepted the letters and confirmed their contents," Zhang announces, his voice steady but urgent.
I nod, acknowledging his loyalty. "And what of the conspirators' response?"
Zhang lifts his head slightly, meeting my gaze. "They are unaware of our knowledge and continue their plans, believing they remain undetected."
I sit in my private study, surrounded by stacks of silk scrolls and papers.
The morning sun casts a warm glow through the intricately carved windows, illuminating the room.
I am reviewing reports from various provinces, detailing growing unrest among the peasants, incursions by foreign powers along our borders, and declining tax revenues.
The empire teeters on the brink of chaos.
I pull out fresh paper and begin drafting a series of edicts - reforms that I have long contemplated but never had the authority to implement.
These reforms will modernize our military, restructure tax collection to benefit the common people, and establish new schools to promote education and progress.
As I work, Weng Tonghui enters with a steaming pot of tea.
He sets it down beside me, bowing respectfully.
"Your Majesty, shall I summon the ministers for another meeting?"
"Not today," I reply, taking a sip of the fragrant tea.
"But tomorrow morning, gather only those we trust. We must implement these reforms gradually, lest we alarm the conservative factions."
Weng nods in understanding.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
Once satisfied with my drafts, I seal them with red wax bearing my imperial mark.
Weng hesitates for a moment, then speaks with a hint of concern. "Your Majesty, do you think Minister Zhang can truly be trusted, given his recent actions?"
I pause, considering his question carefully. "For now, his ambition aligns with our goals, but we must remain vigilant and ready to act if he wavers."
In my private study, lit only by the flickering flames of candles, I sit at my ornate desk, the final draft of the reform edict spread before me.
The room is dimly illuminated, the shadows dancing across the walls as the wind whispers through the open windows.
I take up my brush, dipping it in red ink, and carefully mark specific passages with deliberate strokes.
This document outlines a gradual shift in military training, incorporating modern techniques and technology to strengthen our defenses.
It also proposes changes in tax collection, aiming to alleviate the burden on commoners and promote economic growth.
The language is measured, designed to appear moderate yet assertive enough to secure my authority.
Satisfied with my annotations, I call for Weng Tonghui once more.
He enters promptly, his presence a testament to his unwavering dedication.
"Weng," I say, my voice low and urgent.
"These sealed copies must reach their intended recipients tonight. General Li first, then Chancellor Yang. The others will follow."
Weng bows deeply, his eyes never leaving mine.
"Yes, Your Majesty. I will ensure their safe delivery."
I hand him six identical scrolls, each bearing a different colored ribbon tied around its length.
These ribbons signify the intended recipient: red for General Li, blue for Chancellor Yang, and green for four other ministers whose loyalty has been tested and proven. "Deliver them personally," I instruct Weng.
"General Li's residence first. Then proceed to Chancellor Yang's. The remaining scrolls must be given directly into the hands of those they are meant for. No intermediaries."
Weng nods solemnly, understanding the gravity of his mission.
"And what of Minister Zhang?" he inquires cautiously.
"For now," I reply with calculated deliberation, "let us observe his actions closely. His ambition can still serve us."
With a final bow, Weng turns and exits through a side door that leads to a hidden corridor - a secret passage known only to a select few within the palace walls.
I stand before the ornate mirror in my chambers, adjusting the phoenix crown on my head.
Today marks the first step toward claiming absolute power.
I call for Weng Tonghui.
"Weng, spread rumors through the palace that Guangxu's mental state is deteriorating. Let it be known that I am the only one who can save the empire."
Weng bows deeply, his eyes filled with a mix of loyalty and concern.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
In my private chambers, I sit at my desk, quill in hand.
I draft a detailed decree, questioning Guangxu's capacity to rule.
I cite instances of erratic behavior and decisions that have weakened the empire.
The document is carefully crafted to sway public opinion in my favor.
When Minister Zhang arrives for his daily report, I greet him with a smile.
"Minister, the empire needs stronger leadership. I fear our current ruler is no longer fit to guide us."
Zhang's eyes widen with understanding as I show him documents revealing Guangxu's incompetence.
Zhang leans in, his voice barely above a whisper. "Your Majesty, are you suggesting we move forward with the plan sooner than anticipated?"
I nod, my expression resolute. "Yes, Minister Zhang, the time has come to accelerate our efforts and ensure the empire's stability under my guidance."
He bows his head slightly, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. "Then I am at your service, Empress Dowager."
In my private study, the only sound is the soft crackling of candles.
I sit at my desk, meticulously reviewing the final characters of the imperial edict.
The document declares Guangxu mentally unfit and formally transfers all power to me as regent.
My hands remain steady as I lift the heavy jade seal, its ancient surface cool against my palm.
Minister Zhang and Weng Tonghui kneel silently beside my desk, watching as I press the seal into the red ink pad.
I align it carefully above the paper, aware that each witness present will spread word of this moment throughout the palace.
The seal descends, leaving an impression of the imperial crest.
I set it down and lean back in my chair, a sense of satisfaction washing over me.
"Weng," I say, my voice calm yet authoritative.
"Tomorrow, we will gather the court for a formal assembly. Ensure all ceremonial items are prepared."
Weng bows his head, his eyes never leaving mine.
"Yes, Your Majesty."
I rise from my chair and walk to the window, gazing out at the vast expanse of the palace grounds.
The sun is setting, casting a golden glow over the meticulously manicured gardens.
I return to my desk, where I have already prepared a new document - the imperial edict declaring our new era name: Xingzhong, Prosperous Loyalty.
I take up my brush and begin writing on a piece of yellow silk paper.
The characters flow effortlessly from my brush, each stroke deliberate and precise.
When I finish, I hand the paper to Weng.
"Have this prepared for tomorrow's ceremony. The era of Xingzhong begins now."
Weng takes the paper reverently and exits the room, leaving me alone with Minister Zhang.
"Minister," I say, my voice taking on a note of urgency.
"There is one more task that requires your attention."
Zhang bows slightly, awaiting my instructions.
"I have drafted a posthumous honor for Emperor Guangxu. See that it is inscribed on a stone tablet and placed in the temple of ancestors." Zhang nods solemnly.
"And what of his reign? How do you wish it to be recorded in history?"
I smile, knowing that this is where true power lies - in shaping the narrative of our past.
"His reign was marked by turmoil and weakness. Let it be known that he failed to protect our empire from foreign threats and internal strife."
Zhang bows his head in understanding.
"I will ensure that his legacy is recorded as such."
With a wave of my hand, I dismiss him from my presence.
As he exits, I call for Weng Tonghui once more.
"Weng," I say, my voice filled with determination.
"Tomorrow marks not only the beginning of a new era but also a new chapter in our history. Ensure that all necessary preparations are made for the ceremony."
Weng bows deeply, his eyes filled with unwavering loyalty.
"Yes, Your Majesty. All will be ready as you have commanded."
"Yes, Your Majesty. Everything will be in place to honor the new era."
I nod, satisfied with his assurance. "And remember, Weng, loyalty must be rewarded; those who stand with us now will find their futures secured."
I gather my most trusted advisors in the Hall of Mental Cultivation, a place where emperors have sought wisdom and guidance for centuries.
The room is filled with the soft scent of incense, and the sunlight filters through intricately carved windows, casting patterns on the floor.
Minister Zhang, Weng Tonghui, and a few select officials sit before me, awaiting my instructions.
"Gentlemen," I begin, my voice steady and authoritative.
"The time has come to introduce democratic reforms to our great empire. We must modernize and strengthen our systems to ensure prosperity and stability."
I gesture to a large map spread out on a nearby table.
"This will be the foundation of our new council. Each province will have its own assembly, chosen by the people. This will not only give them a voice but also allow us to better understand their needs."
Minister Zhang speaks up, his voice filled with eagerness.
"Empress Dowager, this is a monumental step forward. But perhaps we should consider implementing elections sooner rather than later?"
I turn my gaze toward him, my expression stern.
"Patience, Minister Zhang. We must proceed with caution. The empire is still recovering from turmoil. We cannot rush into such significant changes without careful planning."
He nods, understanding my concerns.
"Of course, Your Majesty. I merely wish to see our empire flourish under your wise leadership." I smile, acknowledging his loyalty.
"And it shall, Minister Zhang. But first, we must lay the groundwork for these reforms. Weng Tonghui will oversee the establishment of these provincial assemblies. He will ensure that they are formed with integrity and fairness."
Weng bows his head respectfully.
"I am honored to serve in this capacity, Empress Dowager."
I continue, outlining the details of our plan.
"We will establish a new council consisting of representatives from each province. This council will work closely with me to make decisions that benefit the empire as a whole."
The room falls silent as everyone absorbs the magnitude of these changes.
Finally, Minister Zhang speaks up once more.
"But Empress Dowager, what about education? How will we ensure that our people are equipped to participate in this new system?"
I nod in approval at his thoughtful question.
"Ah, Minister Zhang, you are correct to consider education as a vital component of our reforms. We must modernize our educational institutions and provide opportunities for all citizens to learn and grow."
I turn to Weng Tonghui once more.
"Weng, I entrust you with the task of establishing new schools and academies throughout the provinces. Ensure that they are accessible to all, regardless of status or wealth."
Weng nods, determination in his eyes. "I will see to it, Your Majesty, that education becomes the cornerstone of our empire's future."
I sit at the imperial desk, my brush hovering over the final characters of the election decree.
Minister Zhang enters with a stack of census records, detailing the eligible voters in each province.
I scan the documents carefully, making deliberate choices about which regions to include and exclude.
Some areas are known for their dissent and unrest; it would be wise to limit their influence.
I make my selections based on population density and strategic importance, all while ensuring that our loyal supporters are well-represented.
When Weng brings me the imperial seal, I instruct him to dispatch trusted observers to each voting location.
They will oversee the process and ensure that the results align with our expectations.
As the ink dries on the decree, I know that tomorrow, the empire will awaken to a new dawn shaped by my hand.
I sit at the head of the council table in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, surrounded by stacks of provincial reports and maps.
Minister Zhang presents me with a detailed timeline for each region's elections, outlining potential challenges and areas of resistance.
"Empress Dowager, we anticipate some opposition in Guangdong and Sichuan," he explains.
"Their local leaders may resist the changes, fearing a loss of power."
I nod thoughtfully, considering his words.
"And what of the merchant guilds? How will they react to these reforms?"
Governor Liu speaks up from across the table.
"Some guilds may oppose our plans, fearing that democratic reforms will disrupt trade and commerce. But with careful diplomacy, I believe we can win them over."
I lean forward, my eyes locked on Governor Liu.
"Identify the key leaders among these guilds. Arrange private meetings with them. We must ensure their support."
He bows his head in understanding.
"Yes, Empress Dowager."
Weng Tonghui clears his throat, drawing my attention.
"If I may suggest, Empress Dowager, perhaps we should begin by implementing these reforms in three provinces that have proven their loyalty to us. This will allow us to test the waters before expanding further."
I consider his proposal carefully.
It is a cautious approach, but one that could yield positive results.
"Very well, Weng. Identify the three provinces you deem most suitable. Prepare detailed guides for their implementation." He nods, making a note on his papers.
"And what of the other provinces, Empress Dowager? Shall we proceed with caution or push forward aggressively?"
I lean back in my chair, weighing my options.
"For now, let us focus on these initial three provinces. Once we see success there, we can reassess and expand accordingly."
The room falls silent as everyone absorbs my instructions.
Minister Zhang breaks the silence once more.
"If I may ask, Empress Dowager, which ministers will oversee these test provinces?"
I turn my gaze toward him once again.
"Minister Zhang, you will oversee one province. Governor Liu will take charge of another. And Weng Tonghui will manage the third."
Their faces reflect a mix of anticipation and apprehension.
They understand the weight of responsibility that comes with this task.
"I expect regular reports from each of you," I continue.
"I want to be informed every step of the way. These reforms are crucial to our empire's future."
Minister Zhang nods, determination etched on his face.
"Rest assured, Empress Dowager, I will ensure the success of my province."
Governor Liu adds, "And I will leverage my connections to smooth any resistance we might encounter."
I sit in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, surrounded by the final election tallies from all provinces.
Minister Zhang presents me with detailed reports, highlighting the overwhelming support for our handpicked candidates.
The numbers align perfectly with my expectations.
In the test provinces, our chosen leaders have been elected with a staggering 90% of the vote.
The people have spoken, and they have chosen wisely.
Weng Tonghui steps forward, his voice filled with excitement.
"Empress Dowager, I am pleased to announce that Yuan Shikai has been elected Prime Minister with a landslide victory. The people have spoken, and he has received over 95% of the vote."
A smile spreads across my face as I nod in satisfaction.
"Excellent news, Weng. Prepare the appointment decree immediately."
With swift efficiency, Weng brings me the imperial seal and the official document.
I affix my signature with a flourish, sealing Yuan Shikai's fate as the newly elected Prime Minister.
As I hand him the decree and his official credentials, he kneels before me, his head bowed in reverence.
"I accept this position with utmost gratitude, Empress Dowager. I swear to serve you and our great empire to the best of my abilities."
I watch him rise, my eyes never leaving his face.