After the Crown Prince Went Mad

Crown Prince Zhao Xing was handsome, gentle, amiable, and a perfect gentleman, like a breath of fresh air. Since entering government, he had repeatedly submitted policies to benefit the people. Whether relieving disaster victims or quelling rebellions, he always led from the front and won countless merits, earning the people's deep affection! Such a virtuous crown prince was assassinated on his way back to the capital and left on the brink of death! When Zhao Xing awoke, he was no longer gentle. Whoever spoke to him sarcastically got an unreserved tongue-lashing! Everyone said the crown prince had gone mad! The First Prince: "Isn't he just pretending?" Zhao Xing: "You're the one who's good at pretending! Your ambition is so wild, aren't you afraid your body can't contain it? One day you'll burst and bleed all over. When that happens, go die somewhere far away and don't splatter me!" The Third Prince: "How can the crown prince say something so hurtful?" Zhao Xing: "Your mouth stinks. It's making me gag. Get lost!" The Fourth Prince: "The crown prince's injuries haven't healed. Perhaps he's in a bad mood, which is why he's saying such hurtful things. Eldest Brother, Third Brother, please forgive him. Don't take his words to heart." Zhao Xing: "You've got a big mouth. Does it itch if you don't butt in? Guards, bring a knife and shave it down. Make his lips thinner." The Fifth Prince: "Father, the crown prince is so vicious with his words! We only care about him, but he treats us like enemies! He doesn't care about brotherly affection at all!" Zhao Xing: "When you stabbed me in the back, you were as vicious as you could be! What gives you the nerve to talk about brotherly affection? All of you, get out!" The Sixth Prince: "Father, are you really going to stand by and watch the crown prince behave like this?" The Emperor: "He's in poor health. Just humor him!" The three factions of princes, who had been locked in fierce conflict, suddenly went off course after the crown prince went mad. Zhao Xing takes on everyone in court. When they report him to the emperor, he has just one response: If you have what it takes, depose me as crown prince. If you don't, shut up! About this novel: A fictional setting. The reverse-paywall section starts with Chapter 21 on July 12. Theme: Even in harsh circumstances, remain kind and live bravely.