Feudal emperors often had 1001 techniques to protect themselves. One of these was to be well aware of the weaknesses of their subordinates.
Since ancient times, alongside wealth, power has been a desire for many people; it can be said that with power, one can have everything. The emperor is no exception! He holds the authority to deal with everything, even with his own parents.
However, being an emperor is not easy, as he must balance many relationships around him and face constant dangers lurking nearby.
Have readers ever wondered: Why don’t the guards around the emperor dare to assassinate him? It’s because the emperor also has techniques to protect himself.
Guards are the elite force and enjoy many important benefits. (Photo: QQ).
Firstly, the guard force consists of individuals with clear backgrounds, meticulously selected to ensure absolute loyalty to the emperor.
Guards often come from royal lineage or from families of officials in the court. Some have even lived alongside the emperor since childhood, forming close emotional bonds and deep understanding. They undergo rigorous training and must pass many harsh tests to be selected to stand beside the emperor.
Secondly, the benefits bestowed upon the guards by the emperor. Protecting the emperor also means facing numerous hardships and dangers, but in return, the guards are well rewarded.
The rewards they receive are not just titles and honors granted by the emperor, but substantial benefits such as gold, land, servants, and sometimes even marriage arrangements bestowed by the emperor. With such great benefits, would the guards still want to rebel?
Finally, the emperor holds the power to control any guard through their entire family, not just the guards themselves.
From the perspective of mutual interests, the guards protect the emperor; conversely, the emperor is also protecting the entire family of the guards. If there are thoughts of rebellion and they are discovered, the guards would face the severe punishment of annihilation of their entire family. This compels them to think carefully before taking action.
The emperors also wield the “techniques of managing people” and “techniques of governing a nation,” which have been profoundly influenced by the Legalist school throughout history. It is evident that being an emperor is an extremely challenging job, certainly not suited for the weak.
