The Emperor was very tempted.
After receiving Zhao Hanzhang's letter, the Emperor specifically summoned Zhao Zhongyu to confirm that Zhao Hanzhang would definitely attend the Summer Solstice ceremony and support him, only then did he proceed.
Since ascending to the throne, he had been led forward by the powerful ministers around him, and over four years, he had developed the habit of being cautious and prudent. Without a backup plan, he was unwilling to oppose Gou Xi head-on.
Now, with Zhao Hanzhang's support, the Emperor began to act. He first debated the matter of the Summer Solstice ceremony in court, encouraging the ministers to widely invite vassal kings and inspectors from various regions to Yun City to attend;
then started quietly contacting several subordinate generals of Gou Xi.
Inspectors from various places all received invitations, including recently fought Liu Kun, Wang Jun, and Wang Dun.
