Chapter 993 - 226: The Death of Lady Yu
Emperor Chu Wen still wanted to lead troops and campaign in person, to personally reclaim Liaodong and flatten the Rong Clan’s inner lands. However, his health was deteriorating by the day, and at this time, the court could not do without him.
Some chancellors proposed that several princes lead the troops on behalf of the Emperor to patrol and hunt, asserting the imperial power. Although not as intimidating as the Emperor personally leading the campaign, it was certainly much stronger than what An Liefeng and Mo Heng alone could manage.
Now was the crucial time to depose the Crown Prince. No one felt at ease about to whom the military power should be entrusted.
Prince Yong’an strenuously defended the Crown Prince, pleading with Emperor Chu Wen not to believe the rumors and not to think lightly of deposing the heir to the throne. He was willing to lead the troops on a northern campaign.
Emperor Chu Wen now trusted no one. As Prince Yong’an defended the Crown Prince, whether he was involved in this affair was uncertain to the Emperor, but entrusting military power to him would inevitably increase the Crown Prince’s influence.
An Liefeng was good at warfare, and Mo Heng skilled in tactics, with the Mortar Barracks at their command. Whoever took over the military power would effortlessly achieve military merit.
Xiao Guangbi’s Advisors suggested he go to the Emperor and ask to be appointed overseer of the army. He would not seek the greatest achievements but could control the military power. Since the Emperor was now favoring him, even if there were any emergencies, he was confident that the Emperor would leave a Succession Decree.
Xiao Guangbi did not want to leave Capital Jingcheng at this time; he needed to stay and closely watch every change within the palace. If he could get news of his father’s serious illness, he believed that his other brothers might also know by now. Thus, he had the Ministry of the Army and his chancellors submit a memorial to have Bao Xun lead the troops.