In the mansion of Prince Cheng, these past few days, the servants have been treading on eggshells, afraid that one misstep might provoke their master, who is prone to anger.
Many people were already seated in the hall, all ministers of the Yanjing Court, presumably discussing very important matters. Prince Cheng sat at the head, and to his left, close at hand, was Li Zhongnan.
"Gentlemen," Prince Cheng said, "I fear our day may need to be moved up."
In recent days, Emperor Hongxiao seemed to be aware of his plans, targeting him at every turn. Prince Cheng was enraged; he had already been determined to act ahead of schedule, and the incident with Princess Yongning had added fuel to the fire, leaving her unable to vent her fury. He wished he could march into the palace right now, drag Emperor Hongxiao from his throne, and trample him underfoot.
