The night was hazy, a crescent moon like a curved hook hanging in the sky. Chang'an's endless buildings faded into the darkness. Most of Chang'an City was pitch-black, while the Imperial City blazed with light and scattered points of brightness dotted the nobles' quarters.
The Great General's Residence was brightly lit. Despite the late hour, quite a few people had gathered there, seated around Cao Chengsi. All were his trusted followers. Rubbing the armrest beneath his hand, Cao Chengsi said slowly, "The state has only just settled down. I summoned you here today because I have something to tell you."
Everyone immediately straightened their backs and bowed their heads to listen. Cao Chengsi smiled faintly. "The emperor is young and needs worthy ministers to assist him. Several ministers now share that responsibility, but people cannot move forward without a head.
"Since ancient times, no one has ever heard of several ministers serving as regents without distinctions of rank or precedence.
"I believe the present arrangement is a path to disorder. What do you think?"
Everyone immediately voiced agreement. "This subordinate believes the Left General is right. Moreover, a state should be entrusted to the capable. You possess both the talent and ambition to set All Under Heaven right. You should be the one holding Great Wei's reins."
Though no one said it outright, everyone knew Cao Chengsi had just declared his intention to seize power. He was preparing to bring down the other regents and become the man who held all authority.
Wei State had just such a "fine" tradition.
Back then, Cao Rui had appointed Cao Shuang and Sima Yi as joint regents to assist Cao Fang. In the end, their struggle had grown fierce enough to become a fight to the death. Cao Shuang had monopolized power, while