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

A system notification appears:

[Main Storyline Progression: The Crown Prince Takes Sole Control of State Affairs and Policy Decisions for the First Time]

[Reward: Crown Prince's Appeal +15, Sovereignty Stability +10]

[Final Goal Progress: Crown Prince's Ascension Conditions Achieved 4/4]

[All conditions for ascension to the throne have been met; the system will trigger the final story branch.]

Zhu Han looked at the prompt, then suddenly closed his eyes and sighed softly, "It's time."

Inside the Eastern Palace, Zhu Biao donned a dark blue court robe, rolled up his sleeves, picked up a scroll from the court desk, and entered the study.

Gu Qingping was already waiting at the table, pouring him a cup of hot soup. The steam from the thick soup filled the air, illuminating their delicate features.

"Your Highness, is there anything new today?" Gu Qingping asked softly.

Zhu Biao smiled, but did not answer immediately.

He gazed out the window at the bare tree that had lost all its leaves and sighed, “Since the power of the palace gates changed hands, although there is no estrangement between me and my uncle and father, a subtle undercurrent in the court has not yet subsided.”

Upon hearing this, Gu Qingping frowned slightly: "It is rumored that Zheng Ze, the Left Vice Minister of the Ministry of War, has some reservations about the military system of the Crown Prince's palace. He seems to be secretly contacting several generals to discuss whether the Crown Prince's palace has offended his former subordinates."

Zhu Biao nodded: "I have already sent Du Shiqing to investigate privately, but I have not yet found any conclusive evidence. However, if we sit idly by, I am afraid that he has already formed an alliance in secret and is waiting for an opportunity to cause trouble."

Gu Qingping gazed at him: "What is Your Highness's opinion?"

Zhu Biao's eyes were sharp: "This matter must be dealt with swiftly. Tomorrow I will personally go to the Ministry of War to discuss this with Zheng Ze. Any objections will be clarified in court; if he has no rebellious intentions, I will comply; if he has doubts, I will transfer him away from the capital."

Gu Qingping nodded gently: "Your Highness's journey is fraught with danger, and you will need the Imperial Uncle's secret assistance."

The next morning, a biting wind blew outside the palace, and the assembled officials stood beneath the golden throne.

Crown Prince Zhu Biao and Regent Prince Zhu Han stood side by side, with imperial guards standing solemnly on their left and civil and military officials lined up neatly on their right, amidst a chilling atmosphere.

Zhu Yuanzhang sat upright on his dragon throne, a dragon-patterned shawl draped over his shoulders, his gaze piercing. He swept his eyes around the assembled officials, from the Crown Prince to the regent, and then to the ministers, his voice deep and authoritative:
"I have summoned you all today to hear a report from Zheng Ze, the Left Vice Minister of War. Some say that Zheng Ze has been confined to his quarters at the Ministry of War for several days, deep in thought, focusing on abstract matters and neglecting practical ones. What is his intention? I wish to ask Zheng Ze, what is on your mind?"

The imperial court was deserted for a time.

Zheng Ze accepted the order and stepped forward, bowing as he replied, "Your Majesty, I have recently been instructed to reorganize the selection of border guards, and I wish to give priority to assessing their qualifications, daring not to leave them idle. Therefore, I have devoted myself to studying strategies, and thus I have remained silent behind closed doors."

The ministers either nodded slightly or whispered among themselves.

Zhu Biao cupped his hands and stood up, saying loudly, "Minister Zheng said that the military must be well-organized. However, since the Ministry of War is the foundation of the country, any changes in government orders must be discussed with the Crown Prince and the regent. They cannot act independently. If the border selection must be based on facts, then please issue an imperial edict to order the Crown Prince to send military officers to inspect the area. Perhaps they can assist each other."

Upon hearing this, Zheng Ze hesitated for a moment, then cupped his hands and said, "The Crown Prince's edict is precise and insightful. Your humble servant is willing to accompany the military commissioner to inspect the border and select personnel, and dares not hold back any personal opinions."

When Zhu Yuanzhang saw that the Crown Prince had personally made the suggestion, he raised his voice and said, "This is how father and son can act in unison. It is a great plan for the country, and I am very pleased." After speaking, he sighed and said, "You may leave."

After the court session, Zhu Han pulled Zhu Biao aside and whispered, "Given the current situation, this proposal can both enhance the Crown Prince's image and distract Zheng Ze. Brilliant."

Zhu Biao nodded: "Today's alliance still needs to be developed step by step." He said in a deep voice, "Zhu Han, you have protected me in the shadows in the past, can you do it again in secret?"

Zhu Han smiled: "We are awaiting Your Highness's decree."

Two days later, late at night, the lights in the Prince's mansion remained burning.

Zhu Han, Huang Qi, and Du Shiqing held a secret meeting in a bamboo hut hidden in the back garden. Outside, cicadas chirped coldly, their calls sounding like uneasy cries.

Zhu Han unfolded the map, which depicted important locations such as the palace, military academy, various guards, and the Ministry of War. He pointed to several places and said, "I have secretly arranged for people to be stationed at the West Garden, East Gate, and North Gate to monitor the movements of the eunuchs. If anything seems amiss, it can be immediately reported back to the East Palace."

Du Shiqing said in a low voice, "If Zheng Zezhen really had a private agreement with several of his former subordinates, he probably would have already found out."

Zhu Han stopped: "Then we need to make him anxious. Draft a 'Side Selection and Supply Report' with my name on it, subtly placing points of disagreement to force him to agree to a retrial with the Crown Prince's Palace. If he insists on refusing, his true intentions will be revealed; if he agrees, he will have already entered the Eastern Palace's rhythm."

Huang Qi praised, "This plan is brilliant. Let's proceed accordingly."

Zhu Han further stated: "The prison administration should also be ordered to conduct secret investigations into private meetings in Beiyuan, Beijing. If any former subordinates are found to be bribing officials for banquets at night, they should be arrested and displayed to the public."

Du Shiqing cupped his hands in greeting: "Your subject is here to dispatch the messenger."

Zhu Han smiled and said, "The time to close the net is drawing near."

After receiving the "Report on Border Selection and Supply" at his residence, Zheng Ze, the Vice Minister of War, was suspicious and summoned Zhao, the Commander, to the inner training ground and border camp that very night for a detailed discussion.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, he did not go directly to the Eastern Palace, but returned to his residence and secretly sent his trusted confidants to investigate the situation there.

Unexpectedly, the prison administration had secretly planted agents who captured several of Zheng Ze's lieutenants and servants at the back gate of Zheng's residence, and found evidence of secret gold transaction slips, banquet guest lists, and his years of banquets and outings in front of the emperor.

When the news reached the Eastern Palace and the imperial court, the officials were shocked.

The political climate in the court has changed drastically.

The next morning at court, Zhu Yuanzhang's face was ashen. He ordered the prison administration to deal with Zheng Ze and others according to the law, and publicly thanked the crown prince and the regent, praising them for their "quick thinking and decisive action, and their ability to control others."

Zheng Ze, covered in dust and grime, was escorted to the imperial prison by the Imperial Guards.

The court officials were all delighted, and some even whispered among themselves, "The Crown Prince has become a powerful figure. If he is well protected, the world can be at peace."

Zhu Biao and Zhu Han stood side by side in front of the emperor, while Gu Qingping, Du Shiqing, Wu Qiong, and others stood on either side.

Zhu Biao looked up and, unusually, gave Zhu Han a smile of satisfaction.

Zhu Han cupped his hands and whispered, "In this predicament, Your Highness can secure the hearts of the ministers in the Eastern Palace with one more move."

Zhu Biao nodded cautiously: "Thank you for your support, Imperial Uncle. Although this city is fortified, we must not forget the importance of long-term defense."

Zhu Han patted him on the shoulder: "Remember, true power lies not in temporary gains or losses, but in daily perseverance."

Two days later, at the Eastern Palace.

Zhu Biao and Gu Qingping strolled in the Imperial Garden.

The cold dew has fallen heavily, and fallen leaves cover the steps, creating a unique, desolate beauty.

"Autumn has passed and winter is coming. Does Your Highness wish to rest?" Gu Qingping followed lightly, her face appearing even more serene in the moonlight.

Zhu Biao laughed and said, "If the Crown Prince's palace is doing so well, how can we be complacent? Only by being mindful that time waits for no one can we live up to everyone's expectations."

Gu Qingping gazed at him: "Your Highness is better today than yesterday, just like Zhu Han—except that he taught you to be successful, but you are even better than him."

Zhu Biao stopped and looked at her: "Qingping, you're exaggerating. But I understand one thing: if it weren't for my uncle protecting me all the way, I wouldn't dare to be so confident today."

Gu Qingping smiled and said, "Although the Imperial Uncle is stern, he is still a member of your Eastern Palace. You and he are both bound to the fate of the Ming Dynasty."

Zhu Biao's eyes blazed with fury: "He and I are both Crown Princes, yet we are not the same person. I want to stand shoulder to shoulder with him, but I also want the world to know that the position of Crown Prince is not just 'beside the prince,' but 'the heart of the people.'"

She nodded gently: "Your Highness's words can turn the autumn wind into a harsh winter, and the winter chill into a warm sun." Deep winter had arrived, and the first snow began to fall in the capital.

The roof tiles of the Rainbow Palace are covered with glazed ice crystals, and deep in the corridors, the jade steps are smooth and the imperial willows hang silver.

The cold wind blows across the face, but it cannot dispel the resolute spirit in people's hearts.

Outside the East Palace's Advisory Pavilion, Zhu Han, dressed in a plain robe, stood in the snow.

As the pine shadows swayed in the cold, his gaze, sharp as a cold star, seemed to be fixed on every undercurrent of the capital city, neither admiring the snow nor waiting for someone.

Huang Qi, standing beside him, reported softly: "Your Highness, in twelve hours, the Crown Prince will deploy the 'Fenwu Three Battalions' at the drill ground for their first winter exercise, demonstrating the 'Ice and Snow Campaign' method. The battalions have already selected over ten thousand soldiers. The glory after the spring hunt will be put to the test in this winter's real battle."

Zhu Han scoffed, "If my 100,000 infantrymen can run and are well-trained, then their morale can be tested. The success or failure of the Crown Prince's mission hinges on this."

"His Highness ordered us to secretly investigate the Ministry of War's comings and goings. Among the generals, there was considerable apprehension upon hearing this."

Huang Qi said, "Only the East Camp and An Ce Camp reacted the fastest, and will begin training on a chosen day."

Zhu Han nodded: "That's right. He was personally promoted by the Crown Prince. Since he bears the responsibility of the Eastern Palace, he will naturally be brave. But if there is any hesitation in the Central Camp, I will have to take action."

Huang Qi said in a deep voice, "If Your Highness wishes to intervene, this is the perfect time, when no one is around."

Zhu Han smiled and said, "Tonight, I will join Your Highness in devising strategies, and under the 'Ice Camp,' test the hearts of the ministers, and also test himself."

Outside the military training ground in the capital, the snow was deep, and torches burned brightly beside the military camp, illuminating more than ten tents.

The flags of the Dongying, Zhirui, and Ance battalions were neatly arranged, contrasting beautifully with the winter forest.

Amidst the snow, figures bustled about. Crown Prince Zhu Biao, clad in silver armor and a plain robe, a long sword at his waist, and snow boots on his feet, personally approached the ranks of soldiers.

He looked around; the generals stood in formation, cupped their hands, and announced in a loud voice:
"Today, I will personally lead three battalions in a 'snowy breakout' to demonstrate that the cold of the north is not to be feared, and to showcase the elite forces of the Ming Dynasty. All battalions, upon receiving this order, shall move in accordance with my command, without fail!"

As soon as the words were spoken, a gust of cold wind blew from the side, stirring up snowflakes that filled the air. Despite the chill, none of the generals showed any fear, and they responded in unison, "As you command!"

Zhu Han concealed himself behind the torch and did not reveal himself, but a golden glint appeared in his eyes: "His character is evident, he can be tested in the snow, and tomorrow's achievements can be weighed tonight."

Without moving his carriage, Zhu Han tossed a gold medal at his feet and turned to face the night.

Several riders rode swiftly, circling around to the open space on the west side of the training ground, and heard the distant sound of horns and command arrows ringing out, with the wind and snow howling like the beating of war drums.

Zhu Han brought the two men here and said softly, "This is a 'test of breaking camp' set up by the Crown Prince to test their true intentions. If the Eastern Camp can advance straight in a regular formation, it will be stable; if the Central Camp is afraid of the snow freezing and becomes fearful, it will be in chaos; if the Western Camp can charge forward with its sharp edge, it will stand firm."

"How do we try it?" Du Shiqing asked.

Zhu Han pointed to the pine forest ahead: "When the three battalions have just set out, we will lead our troops deep into the western forest to observe their reaction. If they do not move, it will show that they are defending like an impregnable fortress; if they meet us head-on, it will show our strength."

Du Shiqing and Huang Qi exchanged glances, both agreeing. The three drew their swords and rose together, disappearing into the shadows.

At the eastern camp's front, Zhu Biao gave the order, and three hundred vanguards charged forward in formation, breaking through the snow like a surging tide.

The vanguard held muskets, the rear guards held shields for protection, and the cavalrymen in the middle of the formation rushed out and pierced through the ice.

The bugle call was loud and clear, yet without any obstruction.

The elite battalion followed closely behind, charging into battle with spears, axes, and shields, fearless and dignified.

An Ce's camp responded with long-range bows, and arrows rained down in the forest like stars in the snow.

Zhu Biao rode his horse into the midst of the formation, his roar shaking the heavens:
"Fight bravely! Take up arms! Secure the victory! Follow my banner and break through the snow formation!"

The generals responded, and wave after wave surged forward, unstoppable.

Suddenly, a series of startling sounds came from deep within the pine forest.

A dark figure leaped out, and a group of knights stealthily attacked. They wore black veils and similar clothing, but had no banners, and their blades gleamed coldly.

Zhu Han appeared, sword in hand, a flash of cold light, and stopped a rider, shouting, "Imperial Guards of the Eastern Palace, who dares to intrude?"

The knight caught a glimpse of the cold expression, and a low hum came from beneath his mask: "The Crown Prince's palace is solely responsible for defense; how can we allow others to spy on its secrets?"

Zhu Han's wrist flicked, and sword energy pierced through the snow: "This place belongs to the Crown Prince's army camp. No other camp is allowed to enter without permission. Retreat!"

The knight and his entourage immediately gave themselves away, and the other two teams on the same side also retreated when they saw their commander appear.

Zhu Han, covered in snow, pointed his long sword into the depths of the forest:
"If even one more person dares to enter, I will seize and execute them all!"

In the snow, only silence remained for the man in black.

Zhu Han slowly sheathed his sword and strolled out of the forest; even the deep chill of the night could not conceal his imposing aura.

Seeing the men in black retreat, Zhu Biao stopped the soldiers of the Eastern Camp and stood at the head of the formation, gazing at the pine forest.

After a moment, he summoned Du Shiqing to his side:

"As expected, the Imperial Uncle is here waiting for us. Your Highness thanks the Minister for his assistance."

Zhu Han appeared in response and knelt in the snow: "Your Highness's decision is wise. Your humble brother is ashamed, but fortunately, I arrived in time."

Zhu Biao reached out to help him up: "Your Majesty, your assistance to me today has truly strengthened the power of the Crown Prince. I will not fail in my courage today."

Zhu Han stood up, wiped the snow off his clothes, and suddenly burst into laughter: "This trip is to test the various camps, and also to test the situation around the Eastern Palace. If there is such intrusion, then the morale of the army is not settled; if not, then it is a true order. Today's battle, in the cold weather, can intimidate people's hearts."

Zhu Biao looked tired, but smiled and said, "Now that the Ice Peak has been tested, our reputation after the Spring Hunt can be firmly established."

Returning home late at night, to the Prince's mansion.

Zhu Han met with Huang Qi and Du Shiqing in the back garden. Huang Qi weighed the snow mud in his hand and said, "After the Crown Prince left the camp, all the troops nodded in approval, and the matter of Zheng Zefu was completely resolved."

Du Shiqing laughed and said, "The Crown Prince's power has won the hearts of the army, and the prestige of the Eastern Palace is incomparable to that of the past."

Zhu Han gazed into the void: "Yes, but from now on, we should enter a longer period of tempering. The snow formation test is only temporary. To ensure the eternal stability of the Crown Prince, we need to educate through laws and regulations, pass on military skills, and win the hearts and minds of officials."

Huang Qi asked, "What's the next step?"

A cold glint flashed in Zhu Han's eyes: "When the Great Snow Festival arrives next month, I plan to set up an 'Ice Camp Teaching' in the South Garden of the training ground, and invite all officials to observe and learn. Some Confucian scholars may suggest avoiding the cold, but we will turn it into a test of military etiquette."

Du Shiqing slammed his fist on the table: "It's even better than a battle!"

Several days later, at the South Garden of the East Palace Training Ground.

On the first day of the "Ice Camp Teaching", the wind was biting cold but the atmosphere was lively. Crown Prince Zhu Biao personally led the Eastern Palace Guards and the commanders of the three battalions to sit by the fire and demonstrate the formation in the snow, horsemanship on ice, and shield-and-cage techniques.

He threw ice picks onto the snow, demonstrating the essence of "breaking through enemy lines on snow"; then he mounted his horse and rode into the icy path to quickly decide life or death. The officials, standing in the cold wind, were all dumbfounded and full of praise.

That evening, the guests in the hall discussed their impressions of the scene. The old scholar of the Yin family was the first to speak: "Your Highness's actions have truly brought about a transformation, enabling us to wage war in the cold regions and secure peace for the realm. We, your subjects, wish to follow the educational system of the Crown Prince's palace, establishing schools to teach and demonstrate my will." (End of Chapter)