Chapter 939 - 941: The Prince’s Retreat (1)
At the hour of Mao, the bells rang out, and the civil and military officials entered the Imperial Court in single file. His Majesty suddenly passed away, and the event was unexpected. Many matters had not yet been resolved and needed to be discussed and decided upon by all the Ministers together. Therefore, by consensus of all officials, it was decided that every day at the usual time of going to court, they would gather in the Imperial Court to discuss matters concerning His Majesty’s passing.
As the Ministers lined up to enter the Imperial Court and were about to start discussing affairs, the King of Guangling suddenly spoke out loudly, "Esteemed Officials, as the saying goes, ’A nation cannot be without its ruler for a single day.’ I believe that since His Majesty has passed away, it would be better to have the Prince ascend to the throne as soon as possible to stabilize our Great Jin Nation and comfort His Majesty’s spirit in heaven. What do you all think?"
Prime Minister Ning said, "According to the customs of our Great Jin Dynasty, the coronation of the Prince must take place only after the late Emperor has been buried. Now, His Majesty has just passed away three days ago, and even the seventh day mourning period has not passed. Why is the King of Guangling in such a hurry?"
The Wuchang Duke responded, "Prime Minister’s words are not correct. What applies to one situation may not apply to another. The former Emperors ascended the throne according to law during times of peace. Now, our late Sovereign was poisoned by that traitor King Qin. The Prince must ascend the throne as soon as possible to make decisions regarding the execution of the treacherous King Qin. Thus, the situation is not the same as with the former Emperors."
"Indeed, the Prince should ascend to the throne as soon as possible to punish the traitor and stabilize the world!"
"Please allow the Prince to ascend to the throne soon!"
"Please have the Prince ascend to the throne!"
In the Imperial Court, a great wave of officials knelt down, including the original Crown Prince Faction as well as many neutral Ministers who had been coerced by Jin Zhong the previous night. Duke An, Du Ruohai, was among them, all kneeling sincerely on the ground, imploring the Prince to consider the greater good and ascend to the throne immediately.
Prince Nangong Shi suppressed the excitement in his heart, and on the surface maintained the same humble demeanor as before, modestly saying, "I am grateful for the esteem you all hold for me. I will certainly not let down your expectations and will secure our Great Jin..."