The Emperor's Power Rules All Under Heaven

As power shifts and rival factions contend, political groups tied to imperial authority repeatedly rise, fall, and rise again. As autocratic imperial rule grows more sophisticated and increasingly powerful, it gives rise to a host of dependents: the imperial clan, consorts, maternal relatives, eunuchs, powerful ministers, regional warlords, drifters, and outside forces. They can serve as safeguards that strengthen the throne, or as bombs that threaten it. Some are benign, others malign, but they are always at the emperor’s side, coveting the throne and weathering the ups and downs of changing regimes.

Throughout the dynasties, emperors have struggled and maneuvered against these great powers. As one waxes and another wanes, who will prevail?