In the Sixth Year of Wanli: I Really Want to Be a Wise Emperor

In 1577, Zhang Wenming, father of Zhang Juzheng, died of illness in Jiangling, Huguang. With Empress Dowager Li's support, the Wanli Emperor issued an edict retaining Zhang Juzheng in office, citing "the heavy burden of state affairs." The decision caused an uproar throughout the court and the country. Hanlin Academy editors Wu Zhongxing, Zhao Yongxian, and others submitted memorials opposing his exemption from mourning. They were beaten with the court staff and dismissed from office. March 1578. Under pressure from civil officials' impeachment, Zhang Juzheng was forced to compromise. The Wanli Emperor allowed him to return home briefly to bury his father, easing public criticism. As he left the capital, the Wanli Emperor personally bestowed a silver seal inscribed "The Emperor Rewards the Loyal and Worthy," granted him a sedan chair carried by 32 bearers, and sent all six ministries and nine senior officials to see him off at the outskirts of the capital. By this time, the Wanli Emperor, whose soul had been replaced, was sitting upright in the Qianqing Palace, pondering how to survive. The sixth year of Wanli. The Jurchen had not yet grown powerful. Zhang Juzheng was still alive. Qi Jiguang was still here, too. There was still time. This "new emperor" would become an emperor who restored the dynasty to greatness.