Great Ming: Zhu Di Fakes His Death, and I Raise an Army to Secure the Throne

In the eighteenth year of Yongle, Zhu Gaochi transmigrates into the past, knowing that his nephew will one day persecute him and bring him to a tragic end. To save his life, he activates the Nation-Strengthening Development System, devotes himself to improving livelihoods and developing agriculture and trade in his fief, gathers eight hundred loyal warriors ready to die for him, and builds a powerful foundation.

Worried that his sons would fight over the throne after his death, Zhu Di fakes his own death and goes into hiding. He secretly builds up his influence, using the opportunity to test the various princes. When Zhu Gaochi hears that the emperor has died and the crown prince is about to take power, he refuses to sit around and wait for his fate. He immediately leads his trusted men to the capital.

Hidden in the shadows, Zhu Di expects to see his son defeated in battle. Instead, Zhu Gaochi's troops are disciplined and the people rally behind him. The capital's defenders are driven back at every turn, and in just half a day, he has taken control of the city.

Seeing his son stabilize the situation with nothing but popular support and his trusted followers, Zhu Di is so shocked that he doesn't dare show himself and intervene. Several years later, the country is blessed with abundant harvests, trade routes reach across the seas, and the people live in peace and prosperity.

Watching this flourishing age unfold from behind the scenes, Zhu Di is filled with emotion. He decides to remain in hiding and peacefully watch his son govern the Ming dynasty.