The emperor faked his death to test which prince could inherit the throne, and nearly got himself killed from rage:
The eldest prince threw himself at the bedside, sobbing his heart out, while secretly picking at his father’s jade thumb ring. That thing’s worth a fortune!
The second prince slid in on his knees, bumping the eldest aside, and reached under the pillow. The Imperial Seal was just within reach!
The third prince stood off to the side with an impassive expression. “I’ll just stand here and watch you put on your show.”
The fourth prince rushed in, shouting, “Quick, call the imperial physician! I’ve seen him treat rabbits, and he’s really good!”
The third prince couldn’t help himself. “…That was a veterinarian.”
The fourth prince replied with righteous conviction, “A veterinarian is still a doctor!”
Lying on the bed, the emperor ground his back teeth to dust. I should just take you all with me when I go!
