"Fight, struggle. If the Emperor's sons don't contend, where will the fine plays for us to watch come from? Why should I have toiled so hard years ago, nearly losing my life to succeed, while you all wish to ascend the throne so effortlessly?"
"I don't care. As long as I'm alive, none of you will win so easily."
Emperor Longchang muttered to himself, seemingly thrilled and smug about his own schemes. After all, he was old and had the capital to do as he pleased.
Old Yao, the attendant standing by, bowed his head as cold sweat broke out. It was indeed hard to fathom the heart of a great emperor.
...
While Shangjing City was in a state of turmoil.
Ping'an Town remained an idyllic haven, unaffected by the troubles of the outside world.
The children ate, studied, and were disciplined as they should be. They lived and grew up happily and blissfully.
In the familiar courtyard, still a riot of blooms and brimming with spirit, it was like a heavenly abode.
