Chapter 370 The Battle for Succession
Liu Xie failed to help Jin Lin become the crown prince, and undercurrents immediately emerged in the court.

The second prince Jin Bing is twelve years old, the third prince Jin Dou is eleven years old, and the fourth prince Jin Zhe is ten years old. They have all become strong competitors. Even the fifth prince Jin Jie, who is still an infant, has been targeted by some.

Jin Bing's birth mother is Cai Wenji, Jin Dou's birth mother is Da Qiao, and Jin Zhe's birth mother is Feng Lu.

Jin Jie's biological mother is Xie Ying from Yangzhou. This was a decision that Jin Mao had to make in order to appease the people of Yangzhou or Kuaiji County.

Of course, Xie Ying herself is beautiful enough.

When there was no clear faction in the court, Nanyang King Liu Xie and Shangshu Lang Lu Xun had already made it clear that they were on Jin Lin's side. Similarly, Jin Lin's biological mother Tang Ji and the Tang family were also staunch supporters.

The second prince, Jin Bing, had many supporters because of the Cai family. After all, Cai Yong had been teaching for nearly ten years and had quite a few students and former officials.

Behind the third prince Jin Dou stands Zhou Yu's Zhou family. Since Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao are sisters, even if Zhou Yu has never expressed his opinion, everyone will naturally put him on this side.

The fourth prince, Jin Zhe, has been extremely intelligent since childhood. Unfortunately, his mother, Feng Lu, herself was not very smart. She only knew how to please Jin Mao and had no other talents. In addition, the family was in decline. Therefore, since Jin Zhe was old enough to understand, he has been buried in books and has no intention of competing for the throne.

As a result, Jin Zhe became the main target of the four princes.

Why four?
Although Jin Jie cannot speak, his mother Xie Ying is an ambitious woman. In addition, the Xie family has always had a good reputation in Yangzhou, and their power is not weak. Once Jin Jie grows up and has gained enough experience, they can participate in the competition for the crown prince.

However, Xie Ying was not stupid. She knew that the gap of ten years behind was not easy to make up, and it required investment.

Xie Ying set her sights on the fourth prince, Jin Zhe. On the surface, this boy seemed to be noncompetitive, but in fact he was always waiting for Jin Mao's opinion.

this day.

Xie Ying invited Feng Lu and her son to a banquet to find out more about the situation.

After some pleasantries, Xie Ying got straight to the point: "Jie'er is young, so there is no hope for him to be crown prince. On the contrary, Zhe'er is well-educated, well-mannered, and has a heroic appearance. He has a bit of your majesty's style. Sister, have you ever thought of letting Zhe'er compete for the throne?"

Feng Lu has never been a scheming person. Now she is old, almost thirty years old. Even though she has taken good care of herself, Jin Mao no longer favors her as much as before, but she is still the envy of all the concubines.

For example, the Queen Tang Ji, the Imperial Concubine Da Qiao, and the Concubine Cai Wenji were not favored as many times in a month as Feng Lu alone.

Over the years, she gave birth to three daughters.

If it wasn't for finding a way out for her son Jin Jie, Xie Ying would not have cooperated with Feng Lu. After all, Jin Mao favored her less times than the first three, let alone compared with Feng Lu.

Facing Xie Ying's question, Feng Lu was about to answer when Jin Zhe held her hand. In Xie Ying's envious and jealous eyes, Jin Zhe stood up, bowed and replied: "Auntie, Zhe is still young and needs to learn more. I have no intention of competing for the throne."

It is not difficult to see that Jin Zhe, who is only ten years old, is much more mature and wise than his peers.

Hearing this, Xie Ying's eyes flashed with a complex expression, with admiration for Jin Zhe's precocity and calmness, and also worry about the uncertainty of her son's future. She forced a smile and said softly: "Zhe'er is really sensible. He is so sensible at such a young age. He will definitely become a great man in the future. However, things in this world are unpredictable. Sometimes not fighting is another way to fight."

Jin Zhe heard this, and a strange light flashed in his eyes, as if he was touched by Xie Ying's words, but he quickly regained his composure and replied respectfully: "What Auntie taught me is true, and Zhe'er will remember it in his heart. But Zhe'er believes that no matter how turbulent the outside world is, cultivating oneself, managing the family, governing the country and pacifying the world, the most important thing is to cultivate oneself, so that one can respond to all changes with the same attitude."

Feng Lu watched this scene quietly, thinking to herself. She knew that behind Jin Zhe's intelligence and precocity was his deep insight into the fate of his family and his clear understanding of his own future. She gently patted Jin Zhe's shoulder to show encouragement.

Xie Ying felt mixed emotions when she saw this. She knew that although the cooperation between her and Feng Lu was out of helplessness, it became more subtle because of this common bond of interests. She secretly made up her mind that no matter what the future holds, she would strive for the best way out for her son Jin Jie, even if this road was destined to intersect with Feng Lu and Jin Zhe.

So, she restrained her emotions, put on a gentler but firmer expression, and said to Feng Lu and Jin Zhe: "Although the three of us have our own goals, it is ultimately for the prosperity and future of the country. But if there is no present, how can there be a future?"

"Sister, are you sure that His Majesty will not abandon us after he appoints a crown prince?"

"The most ruthless emperor's family!"

Xie Ying's words undoubtedly hit the sore spot of both mother and son. No matter how mature Jin Zhe was, he was not yet at the point where he could hide his emotions, and he immediately showed a look of panic.

Not to mention Feng Lu. If Jin Zhe hadn't always warned her not to get involved in the fight for the crown prince, she would have probably started to win over the officials in the court long ago.

Seeing this, Xie Ying immediately understood that what she had guessed was correct, but she was very smart and did not directly reveal her own trump card. Instead, she said, "The world is like a chess game, and each game is new. Your Majesty's heart is unfathomable, but it is not completely without clues. What Zhe'er and sister are worried about is indeed common sense. However, the rise and fall of a family does not only depend on the favor of one person, but also on the family's own foundation and wisdom. Although I am not an important official in the court, I also know the principle of 'responding to changes with constancy'."

"If we can cultivate ourselves and our families, make more friends, not only in the court but also among the people, and spread our reputation for benevolence throughout the world, then no matter what your majesty thinks, we will be able to stand firm. Furthermore, the matter of establishing a crown prince is related to the foundation of the country. Your majesty will definitely think carefully and consider many aspects, including the family background."

"Sister may feel that the battle for succession is too dangerous and she is unwilling to get involved. This is a wise move. But retreating from the world does not mean being completely indifferent to worldly affairs. Instead, it means accumulating strength in the dark and waiting for the right opportunity. Zhe'er is talented. If he can concentrate on studying and improve himself, he will surely be able to serve the country in the future. By then, who knows who will be the successor."

"As for me, although I cannot tell you all my plans, please believe that everything I do is for Jie'er's future. If we can join hands, we will surely open up a bright path for Zhe'er in this treacherous court."

Xie Ying's words were gentle and firm. She convinced people with reason and moved them with emotion, which made the mother and son, who were originally uneasy, gradually calm down and the light of hope rekindled in their eyes.

Then, Jin Zhe instinctively realized that something was wrong.

Xie Ying didn't give Jin Lin time to react, and continued, "Your Majesty will stay in my palace tomorrow. If you are interested in competing for the throne, I will ask for you."

"Is it true that only princes with powerful backgrounds can have the opportunity to compete for the throne? Is it true that young princes like us can only give up the opportunity?"

How could Jin Zhe, a ten-year-old kid, bear it after hearing these words? His mind was in a mess and he couldn't calm down.

Feng Lu was even more delighted and said, "I am very grateful for your kindness, sister. To be honest, Zhe'er was interested, but my Feng family is declining and I can't do anything..."

"Mother!" Jin Zhe reacted at this time and interrupted Feng Lu from continuing.

But, it's too late!
Xie Ying immediately responded, "Don't worry, sister. I'll leave this matter to you. I will definitely ask His Majesty for the truth!"

Xie Ying raised the wine bottle and said, "Please drink with me!"

The two women then chatted about trivial matters and expressed their innermost feelings until late at night, when Feng Lu and her son left.

On the way back, Jin Zhe couldn't help but complained: "Mother, have you forgotten what you promised me when you came here?" Feng Lu then realized it and apologized: "Zhe'er, it's all my fault!"

Jin Zhe felt mixed emotions when he heard this. He stopped, turned around, looked at his mother with gentle but firm eyes, and said softly, "Mother, you are too kind. I am not blaming you, but I am worried that you will get involved in the disputes in the palace and get hurt. I will remember everything you have done for me. But please believe that I am no longer a child. I can face the wind and rain by myself and protect myself and you."

Feng Lu looked at the tenacity and maturity in her son's eyes, and her eyes could not help but turn red. She gently stroked Jin Zhe's face, with a hint of relief and pride in her voice: "Zhe'er, you have grown up and know how to think about your mother. It's because I was too worried that I forgot that you can stand on your own. However, people in this palace are unpredictable, how can I not worry about you?"

Jin Zhe held his mother's hand, warmly and powerfully: "Don't worry, mother. I know what to do. As for today's matter, I will handle it properly and will not embarrass you. Although Princess Xie Ying is straightforward, she also treats me sincerely. I will find a suitable time to have a frank talk with her and resolve the misunderstanding."

Feng Lu nodded, trust in her eyes: "Okay, I believe you. Remember, no matter when or where, I will always be your strongest support."

Having said that, Jin Zhe couldn't help but worry.

The next day.

Jin Zhe came to his mentor Kan Ze early in the morning to seek help.

Kan Ze is now the chief academic officer of the Imperial Academy, and is only one step away from becoming the Minister of Rites, one of the Nine Ministers.

Ever since Jin Mao divided the Three Dukes and Nine Ministers into specific rules, Taichang was no longer promoted from other places, but was promoted directly from the position of Taixue Jijiu, which was similar to the Education Bureau in later generations.

As long as one has never served as the chief academic officer of the Imperial Academy, he will never be promoted to the position of Minister of Rites in his lifetime.

Although Kan Ze's current official position is not as high as that of Xi Zhicai and other veterans, his actual influence is no less.

This is Jin Zhe's reliance, but also a constraint.

Because Kan Ze was obsessed with academic studies, he did not want to get involved in state affairs, let alone the dispute over the succession to the throne.

However, when his favorite student Jin Zhe asked about the doubts in his heart, Kan Ze still patiently explained.

"Master, thank you Imperial Concubine yesterday..." Jin Zhe repeated what happened yesterday.

Kan Ze stroked his beard gently upon hearing this, with a complex look in his eyes, showing both helplessness towards the palace struggle and tenderness towards his students. "The matter of Concubine Xie may seem simple, but in fact, there are undercurrents. It is rare that you can detect the subtleties. But remember, in the court, especially the struggle for the crown prince position, it often affects the whole body, and it is not something you and I can easily get involved in."

"Do you know why, even though I am the chief academician of the Imperial Academy, I keep a certain distance from the affairs of the court? It's not that I don't want to, but I know the pros and cons of it. If I'm not careful, I'll be sucked into the vortex and it will be difficult to extricate myself. Although I don't directly participate in court affairs, I indirectly influence the future of the country by educating scholars. This is my responsibility and duty as a teacher."

"As for Concubine Xie you mentioned, the power behind her, as well as her subtle relationship with the Queen and other princes, is far more complicated than you think. You need to understand that in the power struggle, there is no absolute right or wrong, only different positions. And you and I should stick to our original intentions and not be confused by power."

At this point, Kan Ze's tone became more serious. "Jin Zhe, you are one of my most valued disciples. I hope that you can not only make achievements in academics, but also become a role model for scholars in terms of morality. You must keep a clear head about the affairs of the court, neither blindly stand in line nor express your opinion easily. Your mission is to learn, grow, and use your wisdom and ability to contribute to the prosperity of the country in the future."

"As for yesterday's events, I will keep an eye on their developments, but you don't have to worry too much. Remember, no matter how the outside world changes, you just need to be yourself and stick to your ideals and beliefs. Only in this way can you go further and more steadily on the road ahead."

After hearing this, Jin Zhe's mind suddenly became clear, and he was filled with admiration for his master. He knew that he still had a lot to learn, but with the guidance and support of his master, he believed that he could move forward firmly on this challenging road.

Things are unpredictable.

It doesn’t matter what Master Kan Ze and his apprentice think. What matters is what Jin Mao thinks.

When Xie Ying asked Feng Lu a question, Jin Mao frowned instinctively.

As a couple for many years, he could see that Feng Lu didn't have the brains to do that, so it was natural that Xie Ying set a trap for Feng Lu.

But this question has to be answered.

Is it true that only the oldest can be the crown prince and the younger ones have no chance?

But by the time the younger ones grow up, the older ones will have been in politics for more than ten or even twenty years.

At this time, how can the younger ones be compared with the older ones?
Not on the same level at all!

Therefore, this is a false proposition.

Those who start early have natural advantages. Jinmao subconsciously wants to establish the eldest son as the legitimate heir. However, it is worried that the eldest son may be a waste, so it sets up a hurdle.

As long as the eldest prince Jin Lin can overcome this hurdle, the position of crown prince will undoubtedly belong to him alone.

But this issue is another matter for Jinmao.

He is the designer of the system. If he doesn't make a good definition, it would be funny if he fails to raise the insect and suffers backlash.

"If Zhe'er is interested, he can participate, but Jie'er can forget about it."

Jinmao's words represent his attitude.

Xie Ying's last hope was shattered, and she could only pin all her hopes on Jin Zhe.

The next day.

Jin Mao announced the scope of the selection of the crown prince, and up to Jin Zhe, only one person was allowed to withdraw from the competition and could not join again.

From now on, the position of crown prince shall also be handled in the same way.

Jin Mao also issued a rule that if a future emperor died early and had no offspring, then a candidate would be chosen from the royal or clan members with the highest bloodline and position in office, and the candidate must have ten years of experience.

Jin Mao doesn't want to repeat the tragedy that started with Emperor Zhi of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

(End of this chapter)