Daming: Brother, there is no future for monks, let's rebel

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded: "It's good that you have a plan. If things go smoothly with the Ministry of War, the foundation of the Crown Prince will be even more solid."

"Rest assured, Father," Zhu Biao replied, bowing his head firmly.

"Good." Zhu Yuanzhang suddenly put down the dossier in his hand, his gaze sharp. "Remember, to win the hearts of the officials, besides being decisive, you also need the wisdom to bide your time. Although Lu Jian has been removed, the power behind Wei Hong is still strong, so we cannot be careless."

Zhu Biao understood his father's meaning and bowed his head, replying, "Your subject will remember."

In a secret chamber of the Prince's mansion, Zhu Han stood before a table, a folded document in his hand, his eyes gleaming with a profound light.

"Huang Qi, how is the situation today? Has news of Wei Hong's matter spread throughout the court?"

Huang Qi respectfully replied, "Your Highness, the news has spread. With Wei Hong's downfall, many people in the court have begun to discuss the vacancy of military power, and many ministers are beginning to waver, especially those who once relied on Wei Hong."

Zhu Han sneered: "This is exactly the result I want. If the Ministry of War's power remains vacant for too long, the court will inevitably descend into chaos. If a new powerful minister is not quickly installed, the situation will only become more complicated."

He walked to the window, looked at the moonlight outside, and his gaze gradually deepened: "We need to act faster and not give the enemy a chance to breathe."

"What does Your Highness mean?" Huang Qi asked.

Zhu Han's lips curled up slightly: "Tomorrow, we will arrange a 'secret meeting' in the palace, bringing together all the powerful ministers. Through this meeting, we will see who can truly stand on the Crown Prince's side and who is still observing."

“If they still dare to side with Wei Hong, we will not be polite.”

Zhu Han's tone was deep and powerful: "If anyone dares to shake the Crown Prince's position again, he will not be let off."

Huang Qi nodded slightly, a cold glint in his eyes: "Understood."

Zhu Han turned around, his gaze becoming even sharper: "Tomorrow, the power structure of the Eastern Palace will be completely unchanged."

In the imperial court, Zhu Yuanzhang sat upright on the dragon throne, his gaze cold and stern. The ministers around him were tense and solemn, all eyes focused on the power struggle that was about to unfold.

Zhu Biao stood to the side, his gaze occasionally sweeping over the important officials in the court, a vague unease creeping into his heart.

His father had entrusted him with this court discussion, which was a sign of trust, but he knew that today's decisions would affect the foundation and future of the Crown Prince's palace.

"Ministers, this meeting has been convened today for a matter of great importance to the court," Zhu Yuanzhang suddenly spoke, his voice as majestic as thunder. "The matter of Wei Hong and Lu Jian concerns the fate of the court and also the future of the Crown Prince."

For a moment, all the officials held their breath, waiting for Zhu Yuanzhang to continue speaking.

"The case of Wei Hong has been settled. I have ordered the immediate removal of all those who colluded with him."

Zhu Yuanzhang continued, "However, this matter is not yet over. It is of utmost importance that someone in the court must take over the power of the Ministry of War."

Upon hearing this, the atmosphere in the hall suddenly became tense.

Everyone was secretly speculating about who would hold the power of the Ministry of War, as this would directly affect the future direction of the court.

"Your Highness, are you interested in taking over the power of the Ministry of War?"

Zhu Yuanzhang suddenly turned the topic to Zhu Biao, his gaze sharp, as if trying to see through everything in his eyes.

Zhu Biao was startled, never expecting his father to suddenly turn the topic to him.

He took a deep breath, straightened his posture, and respectfully replied, "Although I have my own wishes, there are many important officials in the court, and the matter of the Ministry of War cannot be decided in a short time. If I were to take over rashly, I fear it would be inappropriate."

Zhu Yuanzhang did not respond immediately, but slowly scanned the entire room with a sharp gaze, as if observing the reaction of each minister.

Finally, his gaze settled on Zhu Han, who was standing to the side, and his tone turned cold: "So, Your Highness, who do you think is suitable to take over the Ministry of War?"

Zhu Han smiled slightly, his eyes full of confidence. He slowly said, "Your Majesty, if you want to stabilize the Ministry of War, what you need most is stability and decisiveness. Although His Highness the Crown Prince is willing, if he were to take over now, it might be too hasty and opportunistic, and it would only cause unease in the court."

Zhu Biao frowned slightly, but remained silent.

Zhu Han continued, “The power of the Ministry of War cannot be controlled overnight. If we are not careful, it may attract interference from external forces and cause undercurrents. I suggest that I temporarily take over this position to stabilize the situation, and then hand it over to His Highness the Crown Prince after he has matured and become more stable.”

Upon hearing this, the people in the court began to whisper among themselves. Although no one dared to directly refute him, Zhu Han's words won him considerable support.

Zhu Yuanzhang pondered for a moment, then suddenly smiled slightly: "Your Highness is indeed thoughtful. If so, you will temporarily take over the Ministry of War. As for the Crown Prince, you will need to provide him with guidance in the days to come."

Zhu Biao was startled. Although he did not show any unusual expression on the surface, his inner turmoil was considerable.

"Your subject will certainly do his best," Zhu Biao finally spoke, his voice carrying a hint of determination. "But since Father has made his decision, your subject will also cooperate fully."

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded, gesturing for him to stand up: "Alright, that concludes today's meeting. Everyone, please step down."

That evening, in a secret room in the Prince's mansion, Zhu Han and Huang Qi stood before a table, discussing their plans for the next day.

"Huang Qi, although the matter concerning the Ministry of War has been settled, this is only a superficial stability. The days to come are the crucial ones," Zhu Han said in a low voice, his gaze sharp.

Huang Qi replied respectfully, "Your Highness is absolutely right. Although on the surface Wei Hong has fallen and the power of the Ministry of War has been handed over to Your Highness, those who seem to be safe and sound in the court are often more threatening."

“Therefore, we must be even more cautious from now on.” Zhu Han sneered. “Those people may not show any signs of activity for now, but they will eventually slip up.”

Huang Qi nodded slightly: "Your Highness, I understand. We need to intensify our surveillance of those hidden forces."

Zhu Han nodded and said in a deep voice, "Not only that, we also need to use this time to stabilize the support of the Crown Prince, especially those key ministers. Only by ensuring the stability of His Highness the Crown Prince can we truly regain the initiative in the court."

Huang Qi frowned slightly: "Your Highness, although His Highness the Crown Prince is willing, it is still unknown whether he can truly manage the situation in the court."

“That’s exactly what I was worried about.” A complex light flashed in Zhu Han’s eyes. “The Emperor’s support for the Crown Prince is beyond question, but the power struggles in the court are far more complicated than imagined. If His Highness the Crown Prince wants to truly secure his position, he will need more wisdom and decisiveness.”

Huang Qi replied in a low voice, "Your Highness, whether His Highness the Crown Prince can stand out in this power struggle depends on whether he can change himself."

Zhu Han remained silent for a moment, his gaze deep: "Only when the Crown Prince can see through people's hearts in the face of true power struggles can he grow into a qualified emperor."

The following day, in the imperial court, the vacancy in the Ministry of War was officially announced, and Zhu Han was to temporarily take over.

Although Zhu Biao appeared calm on the surface, he was still somewhat uneasy inside.

Although his father's arrangements seemed to pave the way for him, the deeper meaning behind them remained elusive to him. "Your Highness, you must be even more careful from now on."

Gu Qingping walked to his side and said softly, "Those who control the Ministry of War are often at the core of the court. Father Emperor put the Prince in charge of the Ministry of War so that you would have something to rely on in the center of power."

Zhu Biao nodded slightly and said in a low voice, "I know, I understand Father's intentions. But now, although we have temporarily stabilized the Ministry of War, the next step will be the real challenge."

Gu Qingping gazed at him, her eyes filled with deep thought: "Your Highness, remember, do not rely too much on others, especially the Prince. The Prince is indeed willing, but ultimately he only controls his own situation. The Eastern Palace, however, is yours."

Zhu Biao took a deep breath, a resolute glint in his eyes: "I understand, Consort Gu. The matter of the Crown Prince concerns my future, and whether I can truly be trusted by the people."

That night, Zhu Han was still deep in thought in the study of the Prince's mansion.

"Huang Qi, continue to monitor the movements of the Ministry of War and the Crown Prince's Palace. No movement should be ignored."

Zhu Han said coldly, "In this game, I will be the biggest player, and you must follow closely behind."

Huang Qi replied, "Your Highness, rest assured, I will act with utmost care."

Zhu Han smiled slightly, a cold light flashing in his eyes: "Now that the game has begun, there is no turning back."

The palace was shrouded in deep night, a cool breeze swept through, and the shadows of the trees swayed, as if an uneasy atmosphere permeated the entire world.

Inside the imperial study, Zhu Yuanzhang sat alone at his desk, holding a jade pendant in his hand, his eyes revealing depth and contemplation.

"Although Wei Hong and Lu Jian have been removed, the situation is not yet settled."

He muttered to himself, his gaze slightly raised as he looked out the window at the night, as if he could see through the layers of darkness to a more distant game of power and intrigue.

"Your Majesty, it's late, you should rest." Li Shanwen entered softly, a hint of worry in his eyes.

Zhu Yuanzhang waved his hand slightly, his tone calm: "Shanwen, have you noticed anything unusual in the court today?"

Li Shanwen hesitated for a moment, then said in a low voice, "Your Highness's temporary takeover of the Ministry of War appears to be a stabilizing measure, but in reality, it harbors hidden uncertainties. Your Majesty, if Your Highness's intentions are not pure, it may lead to future troubles."

Zhu Yuanzhang snorted coldly: "How could I not know? If I had not been prepared, how could I have secured the throne to this day? Although Zhu Han is my son, he is ultimately cunning and scheming. I know what I'm doing."

“Since Your Majesty has made arrangements, I am relieved,” Li Shanwen said respectfully.

Zhu Yuanzhang nodded slightly, his voice low: "The Crown Prince is still inexperienced, and although he is ambitious, he lacks experience. Letting Zhu Han take over the Ministry of War is both a test and a training exercise. If the Crown Prince can't even pass this test, how can he be expected to inherit the throne?"

Upon hearing this, Li Shan felt a slight chill in his heart, secretly marveling at the unpredictability of the emperor's intentions.

Meanwhile, in a side hall of the East Palace, Zhu Biao sat alone, the dim light in front of him illuminating his slightly furrowed brows.

Gu Qingping quietly entered, gently placed a pot of tea on the table, and said softly, "Is Your Highness still troubled by the matter of the Ministry of War?"

Zhu Biao looked up at her, a complex expression flashing in his eyes: "Although I am fully aware of Father's arrangements, I cannot help but feel uneasy. How can Zhu Han's ambition be satisfied by temporary military power?"

Gu Qingping nodded gently: "Although Your Highness is temporarily in charge of the Ministry of War, if Your Highness can take this opportunity to make arrangements, it may turn the crisis into an opportunity."

Zhu Biao remained silent for a long time before finally raising his hand to pick up a scroll of military strategy, his gaze resolute: "If I cannot even handle this situation, how can I shoulder the responsibility for the country?"

Gu Qingping gave a faint smile, her eyes gentle yet calm: "Your Highness has finally figured it out."

"I can't hesitate any longer," Zhu Biao said in a low voice. "Although the Ministry of War is temporarily in Zhu Han's hands, the foundation of the Crown Prince's palace cannot be left to anyone else's control."

Gu Qingping gave a slight bow, her expression solemn: "What are Your Highness's plans?"

Zhu Biao's eyes sharpened as he slowly said, "From today onward, thoroughly investigate the Ministry of War and secretly contact those loyal to the Crown Prince. Although Zhu Han is temporarily in a high position, if he loses the hearts of the people, how can his military power be secure?"

Gu Qingping nodded: "I will make the arrangements immediately."

"There's more." Zhu Biao paused, his gaze darkening slightly, "Secretly investigate Huang Qi. Although he is Zhu Han's confidant, he acts ruthlessly. If he is not eliminated, he will surely become a future threat."

Inside the Prince's residence, Zhu Han had not yet slept. He stood quietly by the window, listening to Huang Qi's low report: "The Crown Prince has already taken action. Gu Qingping is secretly spying on the people in the Ministry of War."

Zhu Han's lips curled into a sneer: "Zhu Biao has finally made his move, a step slower than I expected."

Huang Qi respectfully asked, "Should Your Highness prepare in advance?"

“No rush.” Zhu Han slowly turned around, his eyes sharp. “It would be worrying if he didn’t make any moves. Now that he has begun to make his plans, it’s a good opportunity for me to see clearly how many people the Crown Prince can truly control.”

He strode back to his desk, casually flipping open a map scroll, his fingertip lightly tapping the location of the Ministry of War's headquarters: "The Crown Prince wants to thoroughly investigate the Ministry of War, little does he know, true military power is already firmly in my hands. I just need to wait for the right opportunity—"

Zhu Han's lips curled into a meaningful smile: "To conquer the world in one fell swoop."

Huang Qi bowed his head and replied, "Your Highness, please rest assured, everything is under control."

Three days later, the imperial court was thrown into turmoil once again.

Someone revealed that Wei Hong's old clique was hiding within the Ministry of War, attempting to overturn the verdict.

The news caused a stir in the court, and officials were in an uproar. The power struggle between the Crown Prince and the Prince's Mansion came to the forefront.

Zhu Biao went to the palace to meet the emperor immediately. Zhu Yuanzhang stared at him coldly, expressionless, and asked, "Crown Prince, what do you think?"

Zhu Biao cupped his hands, his voice firm: "Father, the Ministry of War is the foundation of the court. Any traitors must not be tolerated. I request a thorough investigation into this matter and that no one be lenient."

Zhu Yuanzhang's gaze was sharp as lightning. He said in a deep voice, "If it is found that the prince is involved, do you have the courage to expose him?"

Zhu Biao was startled, but remained calm: "Father, the affairs of state are of utmost importance. If any prince is involved, I will not show favoritism."

Zhu Yuanzhang laughed, a hint of something unfathomable in his eyes: "Good, I'm waiting for your word. Go, and give me a clear explanation."

Zhu Biao bowed slightly, turned and left, but his heart was already churning with turbulent emotions.

Inside a side hall of the Prince's mansion, candlelight flickered. Zhu Han stood before a desk, his sleeves fluttering. The notepad from the Silver Sign System trembled slightly on the table—he had received a new task notification for today's check-in: "Secretly assist the Crown Prince and thwart Wang Shi's conspiracy." (End of Chapter)