As he gazed at the brilliant crown in that withered hand, a flicker of burning desire crossed the Second Prince's eyes.
The thing he had pursued for most of his life was now within arm's reach, seemingly his for the taking.
But he did not step forward immediately. A faint sense that something was wrong made him force down his longing.
Only after glancing around did the Second Prince realize exactly what the problem was.
"Father, since this is the Imperial House's greatest secret, what do you intend to do with these people?"
Logically, the fewer people who knew a secret concerning the Imperial House's special succession process, the better.
Even if it was not passed on privately in a sealed room, the number of people in the know should at least be kept to a minimum.
Yet His Majesty the Emperor seemed so eager to talk that he had gathered almost all the princes, as though afraid he would not have enough listeners.
What about afterward?
The mysterious "Divine Physician Hua" would be easy to handle. One trip through a fusion reactor would ensure that not a single atom came out in its original form, erasing every trace of his remains.
But what about his foolish younger brothers?
Would they simply be allowed to leave and spread the news?
That would inevitably shake the very foundations of the Imperial House's rule.
The other three princes paled, clearly having realized the crux of the matter as well.
"No! We promise we won't say anything. I can swear on the honor of the Imperial House!"
"That's right, Father. We would never dare reveal this secret. You have to believe us! If necessary, we'll give up our claims to the throne and fully support the new emperor!"
The Fourth Prince and the