The Lazy Prince: Father’s Power-Balancing Act Has Me Working Overtime

Tian Qi was born into the body of the fifth prince of the Great Zhao dynasty, and resolved to become a civil servant in the feudal system. His eldest brother, the crown prince, dazzled in a golden-threaded python robe. His eighth brother could recite the Classic of Filial Piety backward. His seventh brother lurked in a corner, radiating menace. As he munched on pastries, he grumbled inwardly, “Passing the civil service exam is no easy feat. Laying low and growing steadily comes first.” The emperor, seated on the high throne, glanced his way, eyes landing on the crumbs at the corner of his mouth. “The fifth prince certainly looks like he's enjoying life.” The ministers burst into laughter. Tian Qi smiled innocently and offered a few flattering words, until the crown prince's trusted aide was dragged out of the hall, screaming. He swallowed a chestnut cake. “Father, you really are... the Great Zhao's ultimate workaholic.” That night, the emperor looked over his notes on Tian Qi's schoolwork. “Is this boy hiding his true abilities?” Tian Qi huddled under the covers, silently memorizing essay responses. When the emperor's summons arrived in the middle of the night, crumbs scattered all over him. The eunuch's shrill voice pierced his eardrums: “His Majesty's command: the fifth prince is to appear before him in the imperial garden at once!”