"You understood that a foundation was not easily built, so you knew My intentions!"
Having been acknowledged as a wise ruler, the Emperor's expression improved somewhat.
"Prince Qi rebelled, Prince Shu was weak, and the Imperial Grandson possessed such ability. It somewhat comforted My heart."
"I regretted what happened back then as well. Now that I am old... after My hundred years are over, this splendid foundation cannot be handed over to mediocrity and ruin."
"Prince Qi plotted rebellion and breached the palace city. Tonight, all know of it... All of this was its crime."
"I can only place My hopes in you."
Su Ziji stood dumbfounded for a moment, then laughed silently. "Sure enough, throughout the ages, death alone has been difficult. Your Majesty is no exception—or perhaps no one is."
"Why must Your Majesty delay?"
"You have no sovereign and no ancestors!" Seeing that delay was truly impossible, the Emperor slowly shook his head, his tone turning cold and hard. "I did indeed kill your father, and the entire Eastern Palace household, high and low, noble and base alike!"
"You seek vengeance today. I have nothing to say about that... But you may forget about an edict of succession. I would rather die than write one!"
"Doing this, are you not afraid that all under Heaven will rebel, and that you will leave behind an infamous name in history?"
Su Ziji laughed even more. "So this is what Your Majesty is using to threaten me?"
As he spoke, his expression gradually turned murderous.
"When Prince Cheng ascended the throne in the past, even the ministers who supported him told him—'The throne has already been decided. Could there be another? Gu should promptly be welcomed back.'"
"Prince Cheng's expression changed, and he said: 'As you wish, as you wish.'"