His expression composed, Liu Ying gazed calmly at the assembled ministers in the hall.
The ministers at court were likewise watching Liu Ying. No one spoke, but every gaze held a probing look.
Just how was the emperor's health?
Luo Xin frowned, then walked to the center of the hall and bowed.
Every gaze settled on him, even Luo Yi's. At this particular moment, he had no idea what his younger brother intended to do.
Many looked toward Liu Ying. Seeing his expression remain composed, they thought, Just as expected. The emperor and the Chancellor arranged this together.
Liu Ying asked with a smile, "Father Chancellor, do you have some instruction for me? Please speak. Is there anything I could refuse you?"
Luo Xin said solemnly, "Your Majesty, Mount Tai stands firm because its foundations run deep. A state's stability follows the same principle.
"Since ancient times, I have never heard of a state flourishing while its succession remained unclear.
"In years past, the Five Princes of Jin State fought over the throne, until blood flowed in rivers. Closest kin, flesh and blood, turned their blades against one another to such a degree. Could anything be more lamentable?
"Qin Shi Huang did not appoint a Crown Prince. As a result, the treacherous ministers Li Si and Zhao Gao seized their chance and placed that brutal ruler and Tyrant Huhai on the throne, ultimately bringing the Qin Dynasty's realm to ruin. Could any sovereign fail to take warning from this?
"The Empress occupies her rightful place in K'un Palace and has given birth to your Eldest Imperial Prince, Heng. He should be appointed Crown Prince to secure the realm and its Altars of State, so that subjects in every quarter and Feudal Lords within and beyond may all know that Great