The throne is within his grasp—if only he would let go of Cheng—Lady Xia.
————
Lady Xia walked back and forth in her well decorated chamber, feeling restless. Even though her plans were going well, she couldn't help but feel worried. A gentle knock on the door broke her troubled thoughts, and she asked the visitor to come in.
Prince Xuan bowed respectfully as he stepped into the room. "Mother."
Lady Xia's eyes widened with surprise as Prince Xuan entered her room. She hadn't seen her son in some time, and his visit was a welcome one. "My dear Xuan," she said, pulling him into a warm hug. "It's been too long. Your visit brings such warmth to my weary heart. Come, walk with me."
They linked arms, and she guided him to the balcony, where the sweet smell of blooming vines filled the air. Though Lady Xia looked graceful, her mind was always sharp and strategic.
"It seems I spend my days managing endless palace duties," she said, murmuring lightly. "There's always something that needs my attention, whether it's dealing with the servants or hearing about the latest court matters." She paused, giving Xuan a thoughtful look. "Speaking of the palace, I've heard some things about Cheng lately."
Xuan looked at her curiously as she continued, choosing her words carefully. "It seems he's often meeting privately with the emperor. And with the concerns about his… condition, I can't help but wonder if he's planning something we should know about."
Xuan kept his gaze calm as he looked over the gardens. "Mother, you're worrying too much. Father is as wise as ever. Cheng has always been loyal to him, and I believe his intentions are pure."
"I only want to give you guidance, as any mother would, and make sure that your brother is safe too," she said softly.
"I understand, Mother. But sometimes, worry only makes things worse. Cheng will stay true to his path, just as I will stay true to mine," he replied gently.
Lady Xia gave a slight nod "You know," she began, "the palace could benefit from a strong, able hand—someone who sees all that goes on and ensures it works for the good of our family and the people." She watched him closely, subtly hinting at her own ambitions for greater influence and control.
Xuan listened politely, but his face remained neutral, showing neither agreement nor interest. "A strong ruler considers all voices but holds true to what is right and just for all."
Lady Xia arched an eyebrow. "Ah, precisely my point, someone of your nature is what is needed to guide the empire to greater heights,"
"Yes," Xuan agreed softly, "and thankfully the palace is filled with people of my nature"
Lady Xia's smile was tighter now, but she didn't relent. "You may be—"
"Mother, I can't help but notice you seem tired lately. You've taken on so much responsibility here… how is your health?" Xuan softly cut in, shifting the conversation with a look of concern.
Lady Xia's eyes softened at his words, momentarily breaking her strategic stance. "Oh, Xuan, you worry too much. My health is fine. A bit of fatigue, perhaps, but that's to be expected at my age."
He smiled warmly, leaning forward slightly. "Even so, Mother, it's good to be cautious. You know I've studied medicine, and I'd be glad to help in any way I can. There are herbs and techniques that can ease fatigue, improve energy. If you'd let me, I'd be honored to prepare something for you."
"Your concern means a great deal to me, Xuan. I suppose I could try one of your remedies, just this once."
Xuan smiled, reaching out to carefully take her hand. "I'll prepare something mild to start, and we can adjust as you see fit. Your health, after all, is most precious to me."
Lady Xia watched her son as he spoke, feeling frustrated. Stubborn boy, she thought. Xuan had always been gentle yet unmovable, traits he had picked up from that meddlesome Cheng. If only Cheng hadn't influenced him so much.
She had tried, again and again, to keep them apart—little remarks, carefully planned schedules, anything to weaken their bond. But no matter what she did, Xuan kept finding his way back to Cheng, drawn to him like a moth to a flame.
If only he could see how Cheng clouds his judgment, a small frown forming on her brow. She could usually guide most people in the palace with just a suggestion, but her son was different, firmly loyal and set in his beliefs.
Still, as much as she saw his stubbornness, a glimpse of hope remained. There's still time, she reminded herself. She hadn't spent all these years preparing him for greatness only to let his loyalty to Cheng stand in the way. Sooner than he thought, Xuan would face the chance to take the power she knew he was meant for.
Yes, the time when he'd have the chance to take the throne—a choice no prince could resist.
Maybe she hadn't been able to change his mind yet, but when power was close enough to reach, he would see things her way. After all, she thought with a sly smile, even the noblest heart has its price.
She looked back at Xuan, her face softening into a motherly smile. Patience was all she needed.
The Palace
Cheng bowed low before the emperor's throne, where the aging emperor Wei sat surrounded by velvet cushions. "Stand up, my son. What have you decided about our last conversation?"
Cheng gave his father a serious look. "The well-being of the empire is always on my mind, Father. We must make sure there is stability and fairness."
The emperor nodded in agreement. "To that end, a marriage proposal has already arrived from the lord of Běifēng. His daughter, Princess Chán Juān, could be a good match. What do you think?"
"The princess seems like a good match, Father. But for the sake of our people, such choices must be thought through carefully."
His father gave him a knowing look. "Wise words, as always, Cheng. But securing your position is also important."
"An alliance with the northern province would strengthen both our realms. The lord of Běifēng is no fool; he knows the value of joining our houses."
Cheng hesitated. "Father, while I understand the reasons… my heart doesn't feel drawn to this match. Must I marry where my feelings do not lead me?"
The emperor let out a weary sigh. "You think too much, my son. This marriage is essential—for our people and to secure your rightful place. In time, love will come."
In his father's aging eyes, Cheng saw that he wouldn't reconsider. Resigned, Cheng bowed. "As you wish, Father. I am here to follow your wisdom."
A few days later
The emperor's call brought Cheng quickly to the throne room, where his brothers were already gathered.
Third-born Bai bowed deeply. "Your Majesty, the bridge repairs are nearly complete, thanks to Master Tao's clever ideas. Trade will soon thrive again."
The emperor smiled. "Well done, my son. And you, Prince Feng?"
Feng spoke proudly of good harvests and busy markets. "Our people enjoy prosperity through hard work and unity."
Then Yizong described new agreements with Southern tribes, bringing a time of peace and understanding. Prince Xuan shared his plans to build an institute for healing, to improve the health of their people.
Finally, all eyes turned to Cheng. "The soldiers remain vigilant thanks to my recruitment efforts, ready to protect the empire."
The emperor nodded with satisfaction. "Our realm prospers because of each son's care and dedication to our people. In this way, our dynasty will last—through unity and goodwill." The royal court listened closely as the emperor's words were declared.
"As I have said before, my son, Prince Cheng, shall ascend the throne upon my passing. This decision is final," the emperor declared firmly.
Grand Chancellor Lei stepped forward. "With all respect, Your Majesty, we have discussed the matter of the crown prince. He faces the affliction of Lokiàn Shén. Can he bear the burdens of rule as well?"
The emperor's gaze hardened. "Cheng's strength and wisdom go far beyond his illness. I see in him the future of our dynasty."
"My decision stands. Cheng will be king."
Murmurs filled the room until Minister Zhang inclined his head. "If this is the emperor's decree, then who are we to defy fate? The crown prince shall have our support from this day forward."
At this, the assembly bowed as one.
"Furthermore, an alliance shall be secured with the northern provinces through the union of Cheng and Princess Chán Juān. Their marriage will unite our realms and strengthen our dynasty." Said the emperor.
The officials bowed deeply at this announcement, though some cast calculating looks toward Cheng.
Prince Xuan stepped forward to congratulate his elder brother.
"This alliance will bring prosperity to both regions. Brother, you have my utmost respect and my best wishes for your happiness."
Cheng accepted his brother's words politely, but there was a note of doubt in his careful reply.
The emperor's voice rang out one last time. "This council is dismissed."
As the officials bowed and departed, Xuan remained behind, his mind drifting back to his mother's warning. Was Cheng truly influencing the king?