My Imperial Grandfather Helps Me Become Empress

My father was the Crown Prince, but sadly, he died of a plague.

After he was gone, the position of Crown Prince was left vacant.

The court ministers urged my imperial grandfather to appoint a new Crown Prince, to secure the foundations of the realm.

Naturally, that would also let the ministers start competing to attach themselves to the future ruler and claim their share of the glory. After all, I had five imperial uncles. Behind them stood newly risen military nobles, powerful aristocratic families, and even one naturally gifted, popular prince hailed as a worthy king.

I was indignant.

Why couldn't I inherit my father's position and become Crown Prince?

My maternal family were founding military heroes, and even now they commanded a hundred thousand troops. I studied literature and martial arts, and my talents won praise. Though still young, I had gone among the people in disguise to punish evil and champion good, earning their support!

Was it only because I was a girl?

As the entire court clamored for a new Crown Prince, I knelt and begged humbly for three days and three nights, just for the chance to train with the army.

That way, I could win everyone over by force of arms later.

But I never expected the emperor, whose inscrutable authority terrified countless people, to say meaningfully, "Benben, being a female Crown Prince is difficult. You should skip straight to becoming empress."

"Take my power and drive me from the throne."

Theme: Ability can transcend gender.