The sixteen emperors of the Ming dynasty ruled the last Han Chinese dynasty on the Central Plains. There are many theories about the dynasty’s fall: some say it truly died under Wanli, others say under Jiajing, and still others say it fell at Tumu Fortress.
Zhu Houwei transmigrates to the unremarkable Hongzhi era, becoming the second son of Zhu Youtang, the emperor who would restore the dynasty.
The scholar-official faction grows ever more powerful, while officials, gentry, and wealthy families seize land.
Beyond the borders, the Northern Yuan invades; within them, roving bandits run rampant.
Zhu Houwei takes up his sword.
He strikes north against the Tatars, Oirats, and Uriyangqad, riding to the shores of the Han Sea to end the threat on the northern frontier.
He sweeps south to crush the wokou, execute the powerful, and reopen the maritime trade ban.
On his sickbed, Zhu Youtang summons Zhu Houwei.
The imperial city is already surrounded by heavily armed troops. Zhu Houwei enters in armor.
Zhu Youtang: “Erbao, I plan to have Houzhao inherit the throne. What do you think?”
Zhu Houwei: “Father, I have come today only to ask you to abdicate. I beg you to reconsider and grant my request.”
