Shadows Over the Imperial Palace

An alternate history featuring play the pig to eat the tiger, political schemes, wars among rival states, palace secrets, a powerful heroine offering support, and military affairs. No System, no cheat powers.

The previous emperor dies suddenly, leaving the succession uncertain.

Powerful ministers unite to support the fifth prince, Xiao Heng, as the new emperor.

Without a mother, influence, talent, or courage.

Cowardly, foolish, lecherous, and incompetent:

the whole realm believes he is the perfect puppet.

No one knows the young man endured seventeen years of humiliation for this very moment.

The Three Palaces of the Inner Court are established, the Thousand Eyes Bureau rises again, and the Earth Web Bureau returns to its place.

He acts a part at court and lays his plans deep within the palace.

What he wants is not stability,

but to sweep away the great clans and rule the world alone.