Emperor Chu Wen still wanted to lead troops and campaign in person, to personally reclaim Liaodong and flatten the Rong Clan's inner lands. However, his health was deteriorating by the day, and at this time, the court could not do without him.
Some chancellors proposed that several princes lead the troops on behalf of the Emperor to patrol and hunt, asserting the imperial power. Although not as intimidating as the Emperor personally leading the campaign, it was certainly much stronger than what An Liefeng and Mo Heng alone could manage.
Now was the crucial time to depose the Crown Prince. No one felt at ease about to whom the military power should be entrusted.
Prince Yong'an strenuously defended the Crown Prince, pleading with Emperor Chu Wen not to believe the rumors and not to think lightly of deposing the heir to the throne. He was willing to lead the troops on a northern campaign.
