The Ming Dynasty's Beloved Nephew

Rebellious to the core: filial piety taken to the extreme! He transmigrated to the Ming dynasty during the Yongle era. His eldest uncle, Zhu Gaochi, was shrewd to a fault, while his second uncle, Zhu Gaoxu, was a few cards short of a full deck. Being their nephew was a high-risk occupation. And then there was his suspicious grandfather and his arrogant father. What a blessing to have you all in my life. They say a wise and virtuous grandson brings prosperity for three generations. Zhu Zhanhou might not be a saintly grandson, but he certainly wouldn’t be Zhu Di’s lapdog. A real man should do the opposite of what’s expected. Having me around is a blessing for you, too. He hoards money, infuriates his grandfather, tricks his uncles, and talks his own father into taking the blame. He takes the road less traveled, with the noblewomen of Yingtian Prefecture backing him up. The entire court calls him a treacherous schemer. Zhu Di puts up with him for ten years, all because... “Short on military pay? Dear grandson, lend us some money. Win the battle, and I’ll make you admiral of the South Seas! Your Highness the Crown Prince is frail, so you must do your best...” “Don’t worry. I’ll grant every request!” Zhu Zhanhou: “Enough sweet-talking your grandson. Give me the title now.” Zhu Di... You want to follow your grandfather and launch a Jingnan campaign? Dream on! Zhu Zhanhou thought to himself, “You’re messing with me again, aren’t you? Heaven’s mandate to wage the Jingnan campaign isn’t about what you call it. If my grandfather saw things as they are today, I wonder what he’d think.” Then the returned student ascended the throne: “Uncle, your outstanding talent keeps me awake with worry. I’m going to follow Grandfather’s example, lead an expedition north, and take command of the army! I’ll abolish the fiefs!” Zhu Zhanhou flipped the table in reply. Does my eldest nephew want to come back and demand the throne? Raise the troops! Purge the court of traitors and save the nation from disaster! Grandfather, I’m back...