An elder member of the imperial clan froze for a moment. He stepped forward and cautiously advised, "Your Highness, if you do not ascend the throne immediately, the Empire's legitimacy may..."
"With the Imperial Seal and my regency decree, my regency will not lack legitimacy."
Xu Tianyao took out the dark-golden Imperial Seal and placed it on the long table beside him.
"As for ascending the throne, it will not be too late to discuss it after my imperial brother is buried."
The clan elder still wanted to speak, but Kong Deming had already stepped forward.
"Prince Ming holds the Imperial Seal by His Majesty's final decree. If anyone has objections, step forward now."
The hall fell utterly silent. Everyone inside understood that Xu Tianyao held more than just an Imperial Seal. He also had the iron-blooded army that had just returned from the western front, Kong Deming, a rank-ninety-six Soul Engineer, and the Royal Soul Engineer Legion that had sealed off Ming Capital.
More importantly, Xu Tianran had personally named him before his death.
Before the Emperor's body had even gone cold, no one dared challenge that order.
Xu Tianyao put the Imperial Seal back into its case, rose, and walked down the steps.
"Court is dismissed."
All the officials knelt at once.
"Farewell, Prince Ming."
Xu Tianyao reached the palace doors, then suddenly stopped.
Without turning around, he asked, "Where is my imperial brother's body now?"
Jing Hongchen stepped out from the ranks and bowed. "It remains in the hidden hall. Healing-type Soul Masters have already prepared the body, but it has not yet been moved."
"Take me there."
Jing Hongchen looked up at Kong Deming. Seeing him nod, he immediately moved aside to lead the way.
The two passed through the long palace corridors and arrived at