Imperial Palace.
Wenhua Hall.
Emperor Chong'an, tormented by illness for years, had long since wasted away to skin and bones. The vast yellow imperial robe hung on his frame, a grotesque mismatch.
It was like a monkey wearing a crown.
He lay on the massive dragon throne, a sneer spreading across his face as he looked down at the kneeling Crown Prince.
"What do you think you're doing?"
"Isn't being benevolent and renowned for your literary talent enough for you? Now you want to be peerless in Martial Arts and have the courage to lead armies, all to earn a grand reputation for both civil and military prowess?"
"Father." Crown Prince Qii Xian raised his head.
"It's 'Your Majesty'!" Emperor Chong'an's voice sharpened.
"...Your Majesty." Qii Xian gritted his teeth and said in a strained voice:
"Bandits are running rampant and the people are living in misery. Even the Capital Region has been affected. We must quell this rebellion at once."
