The emperor spoke in the hall, "I have called my loyal retainers and sons here today for an important announcement."
The air was tense and the emperor spoke slowly, but no one dared interfere.
"The seat of the Crown Prince has been empty for too long. It's time."
Everyone there more or less understood.
A advisor on the right stepped out.
"I think that only the 2nd prince is worthy of such a title. No other prince can match to his intelligence."
Meng Chang stood proudly with hands behind his back.
"No, no, the person that deserves to be Crown Prince is the 3rd prince! The 3rd prince has fought in countless battles and protected our great dynasty! Only he is worthy of it!"
Another advisor stepped out and gave their opinion.
The 3rd prince, Meng Lu stood silently.
Meng Yu was also standing along with them, but since he knew there was nothing for him, he simply was playing games in his head.
....
Advisor after advisor spoke, both were evenly divided.
"....General Ling, what about you?"
Everyone looked at him.
He bowed, "To your majesty, I am a martial man, so I think that the Crown Prince should go to the 3rd prince."
"....hm. Alright, after listening to my loyal retainers, I have made my decision."
The emperor picked up a brush and dipped it in ink.
After a while he had finished writing.
"Read it."
The emperor handed it to the head Eunuch.
With a high and loud voice, "I have taken into consideration of who will be crown prince and I have come to a conclusion."
"The 2nd prince is smart and resourceful. Many princes could not outsmart him especially in the way of strategy."
The 2nd prince smiled.
"But-"
Once they heard that everyone became alarmed.
The 2nd prince face become ghostly.
"The 3rd prince, Meng lu has done much for the dynasty. Right now, we are facing danger from all nations that surround us, thus we need a strong Emperor to lead our men. Therefore Meng Lu will become the crown prince!"
"YOUR LOYAL RETAINERS UNDERSTANDS!" They all bowed.
"Accept the royal decree!"
The 3rd prince was still bowing and he walked forward to grab it.
....
All the retainers left and the 2nd prince also left in anger.
"3rd brother please wait."
Meng Yu stopped Meng Lu near the gate.
"7th brother, what is it?" Unlike Meng Chang, Meng Lu had never wanted the throne and was also fond of brotherhood. He was a true dragon amongst men.
"3rd brother, I know that I am low compared to the 2nd and 3rd brother, but I hope that you become the Crown Prince."
".....I understand. 7th brother doesn't need to worry."
With that he left on a carriage.
'Thankfully 3rd brother is merciful and not so ruthless. He was willing to give me a way out.'
....
Meanwhile
Meng Chang tossed his tea cup at the wall.
"It should've been me!"
He was so angry veins were appearing on his face.
"Black Legion!!"
A group of shadow assassins appeared.
"Be on standby!"
"YES!"
Then within a instant they disappeared again.
"Since you are so stupid....Don't blame me for what's coming, hmph!"