MTLNOVEL Chapter 36 - Feigning Weakness to Seize the Throne – A God’s Calculated Move
Chapter 36: Feigning Weakness to Seize the Throne – A God’s Calculated Move
The Great Xia Dynasty was in turmoil following the sudden demise of the emperor. The court was abuzz with schemes and power plays as factions vied for the throne. Yet amidst the chaos, Xia Tian, cloaked in deception and wielding the might of a Celestial Immortal quietly orchestrated his ascent to power.
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In the emperor’s bedchamber, chaos reigned. Xia Chenxian, the guardian of the dynasty, had instructed the court to convene and decide the next emperor. For him, the identity of the new ruler mattered little, provided they bore the blood of the Xia family.
Within the chamber, however, the spectacle of mourning unfolded. Ministers, concubines, and royal offspring wept loudly, though few tears were genuine. As the cries grew louder, Xia Tian entered, his expression one of profound sorrow—an illusion crafted by his mastery of Celestial-level illusions.
“Father! How could you leave us?” Xia Tian lamented, his voice trembling. Yet, beneath the façade, his mind calculated his next move with cold precision.
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With the emperor’s death, the court divided into three main factions:
Faction of the Crown Prince: Led by First Prince Xia Qian, the eldest son and traditional heir, who enjoyed the backing of several senior ministers.
Faction of the Ninth Prince: Supported by Prime Minister Wu Kaisheng, this group sought to install Ninth Prince Xia Wuyi as a puppet emperor under Wu’s control.
Faction of the Third Prince: Stealthily led by Xia Tian, who had quietly amassed support from key figures, including the powerful Xue Clan, which commanded nearly a million soldiers.
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Xia Tian understood that his public persona of mediocrity was his greatest asset. While others fought openly for the throne, he worked behind the scenes, employing both charm and intimidation to win allies.
Key elements of Xia Tian’s strategy included:
Gaining Military Support: By aligning with the Xue Clan, Xia Tian secured a critical advantage in military strength, essential for stabilising the empire and deterring his rivals.
Exploiting Public Perception: By feigning sorrow and playing the role of a dutiful son, Xia Tian maintained the illusion of being uninterested in power, lulling his competitors into complacency.
Undermining Rivals: Through discreet manoeuvres, Xia Tian spread dissent within the factions of Xia Qian and Xia Wuyi, sowing discord and weakening their cohesion.
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Five days after the emperor’s death, the capital was in uproar. The news of the emperor’s passing had emboldened rebel factions outside the capital, while the court’s factions prepared for a decisive confrontation.
Xia Tian, having spent the intervening days consolidating his influence, was now ready to enter the fray. Unlike his brothers, who relied on brute force and political connections, Xia Tian’s power stemmed from a combination of divine insight and meticulous planning.
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As the city bustled with rumours and preparations, Xia Tian stepped out of his estate into the golden morning light. Clad in simple yet elegant robes, he projected the image of a noble prince committed to the dynasty’s welfare.
“Your Highness, the court awaits your presence,” a servant informed him.
Xia Tian nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. “Let us not keep them waiting,” he said, his tone calm yet commanding.