During the political turmoil of the Tianshun era, Zhu Jianshen was caught between his father's suspicions and Prince Jing's bid for the throne. He concealed his strength while forging ties with the nobility and securing military power. At last, he ascended the throne and ushered in the Chenghua era of prosperity, purging treacherous ministers at home and driving the Yuan court beyond the frontier to water their horses in the Han Sea.
