Ministers Begging Me to Ascend the Throne Chapter 1123 - 142: Prince Chu’s Worries (3)

Yang Ling observed the shift in Prince Chu’s demeanor and quickly inquired, "Your Highness, what occupies your thoughts?"

Prince Chu responded, "The affairs concerning Consort Shu and Princess Consort De seem intrinsically linked to Prince Han’s delayed return to the capital and the earlier assassination attempt on my tenth brother."

"Your Highness, do you suspect collusion between Consort Shu and Princess Consort De?"

"The evidence strongly suggests it now; otherwise, Father would not be scrutinizing their connections."

Yang Ling’s expression turned grave, "Your Highness, I fear Prince Han has stumbled upon something he cannot reveal."

"That is indeed the case." Prince Chu felt a flicker of annoyance that Zhao Yao had kept such a secret from him. "To conceal such a significant matter from me, his own brother."

"You faced an assassination attempt upon your last return to the capital. Had Prince Han not arranged for a substitute to impersonate you, your survival might not have been guaranteed. Prince Han likely anticipated this and withheld the information to shield you from further targeting by Prince Han and the Xun Family." Yang Ling mused internally, acknowledging the profound loyalty between the two princes.

"I suppose that mirrors the situation." This realization only deepened Prince Chu’s unease.

"Your Highness, Prince Han is both astute and adept, possessing individuals skilled in disguise. It is probable that Prince Han arranged for a decoy while he made his own discreet return via an alternate route, much like your own strategy when entering the capital."

"If that is so, then I am somewhat reassured."

"Your Highness, Prince Han undoubtedly anticipated Prince Han’s attempt on his life, thus he must have prepared accordingly." Yang Ling offered words of comfort to Prince Chu. "I have faith that Prince Han will reach the capital safely and without further incident."

Yang Ling’s assurance brought a measure of calm to Prince Chu.

"Upon his arrival, we must have a serious discussion with him."

"Your Highness, my current concern is that Prince Han might resort to desperate, rebellious actions."

Prince Chu nodded slowly. "A distinct possibility, yet ultimate failure is assured."

"Why do you say that, Your Highness?" Yang Ling inquired, puzzled.

"General Chu remains stationed at the Northern Border Camp." Prince Chu finally grasped the Emperor’s strategic placement of Chu Ying.

"Your Highness, have you overlooked Prince Dai?" Yang Ling voiced his apprehension. "What if Prince Dai and Prince Han were to coordinate an attack, one from within and one from without?"

"Even a joint effort between Prince Dai and Prince Han would falter." Prince Chu offered a slight smile. "Setting aside Father’s own capabilities, consider loyalists like General Song; despite Prince Dai’s extensive military experience, he still pales in comparison to General Song and the others serving at Father’s side."

Yang Ling’s recollection of General Song and his ilk surfaced. "Your Highness, your reasoning is sound."

Prince Chu continued, "Furthermore, I find it improbable that Prince Dai would be so foolish as to align himself with Prince Han."

"Is it not true that Prince Dai appears infatuated with the woman sent by Prince Han?" Yang Ling expressed his astonishment. "Does Your Highness believe Prince Dai is merely feigning?"

"Indeed, Prince Dai is unlikely to be so naive." Prince Chu reasoned. "What tangible advantage would he gain by cooperating with Prince Han?"

"If Prince Dai is merely acting, then Prince Han is surely doomed."

"He is already finished." The thought of Prince Han’s intent to harm Zhao Yao cast a grim shadow over Prince Chu’s expression.

"Had Prince Han not detected Prince Han’s unusual behavior, we would all have been deceived by Prince Han at this very moment." Fortunately, Prince Han stands with Prince Chu. Were Prince Han to oppose him, Prince Chu would stand no chance against that formidable opponent.

Previously, he had considered Prince Chu the most accomplished among the princes. However, it now appears that Prince Han is the truly exceptional one; his intellect and methods are undeniably outstanding.

At merely seventeen years of age, Prince Han possesses such profound schemes and strategies. Truly… facing him as an adversary would be a terrifying prospect.