The Empress has abandoned me? I'll support a new emperor and destroy your kingdom!

"Of course, this is Yun Jin's speculation based on intelligence."

Yun Jin changed the subject again, her tone returning to calm.

"The truth must be thoroughly investigated and verified. Military equipment can be copied, and rumors can be fabricated. The most urgent task is to stabilize the situation in the south as soon as possible, eliminate the rebels, thoroughly investigate the source of the weapons, cut off any possible links to the enemy, uphold the law, and reassure the people!"

She steered the conversation back to the issues of "suppressing the rebellion" and "thorough investigation," avoiding direct confrontation with Yun Huan over the question of "who might be colluding with the enemy," demonstrating her commitment to prioritizing national affairs.

A shadow crossed the eyes of the Third Prince Yun Huan.

He didn't expect Yun Jin to react so quickly, not only defusing his attack but also turning the tables on him by proposing the specific target of Tufa Wugu and subtly accusing the "middleman" of "colluding with the enemy".

"Your Majesty's insight is profound; I have learned much from it."

Yun Huan's face regained its gentle smile. "However, thoroughly investigating the source of the weapons is not something that can be accomplished in a day. The war in the south is critical. If Anqing is lost, the natural barrier of the Yangtze River will be in danger! The most urgent task is to select a capable general, send reinforcements, and quickly quell the rebellion! As for the investigation, it can be left to the relevant authorities to investigate slowly."

He once again shifted the focus to "suppressing the rebellion" and emphasized "selecting capable generals," intending to exclude Yun Jin from military affairs in the south.

After all, it is against etiquette and even more so against the system for a princess to command an army.

"What my third brother says is absolutely right."

Yun Jin nodded, and then, to everyone's astonishment, she faced the throne again, bowed, and said loudly.

"Father! The rebellion in the south, colluding with foreign invaders, is shaking the foundation of the country. As the Princess who protects the country, I have received great favors from you, Father, and have been granted the authority to establish my own residence and participate in state affairs. How can I sit idly by at this critical moment?"

Your humble servant is unworthy, but I humbly request permission to travel south as "Imperial Envoy and Commander-in-Chief" to Anqing.

Firstly, it was to comfort the soldiers and boost morale.

Secondly, it coordinated the various armies to assist in suppressing the rebels.

Thirdly… regarding the on-site inspection of the Northern Barbarian's weaponry, it is imperative to ascertain the truth, sever the enemy chieftain's influence, and prove the court's innocence, as well as my own!

She actually volunteered to go south?

To go to the war-torn, perilous front lines? And under the guise of "Imperial Envoy and Commander-in-Chief"?

The entire hall erupted in uproar!

A princess as commander-in-chief? Unheard of! Even for a princess who protects the nation, this is far too presumptuous!

Moreover, she had just been embroiled in rumors of "colluding with the enemy." Was her trip south now to prove her innocence, or... did she have ulterior motives?

"Your Highness! You mustn't!"

Li Gang couldn't help but step forward and said urgently, "The south is in turmoil, and the fighting is dangerous. Your Highness is of inestimable worth; how can you lightly venture into such a perilous place? The Ministry of War and the Five Military Commissions will select and appoint generals for the post of Commander-in-Chief. Your Highness can remain in the central command and coordinate the overall operations!"

"Yes, Your Highness! A son of a noble family should not sit under a dangerous roof! Please, Your Highness, prioritize the well-being of the nation and take care of your health!"

Several officials who were on good terms with the princess's residence also tried to dissuade her.

Among the ranks of military officers, Marquis Weiyuan, Zhao Qingcang, glanced at them and remained silent, lost in thought.

He knew the princess's courage and ability, and he understood the complexity of the situation in the south.

If she were to arrive in person, she might be able to stabilize the situation, but the risks would indeed be enormous.

The Third Prince Yun Huan's eyes flashed with a sharp light, which then turned into deep "worry".

"My sister's loyalty and bravery are commendable, and I admire her greatly."

However, the position of commander-in-chief is no small matter; only those who have experienced many battles and are well-versed in military strategy can be competent for it.

Although the princess has rendered meritorious service in defending the city in the north, the south is characterized by a dense network of waterways, and its terrain, climate, and enemy situation are all very different from those in the north, so it may not be her forte.

Moreover, the imperial sister is of noble status; if anything were to happen to her, what would become of the court's reputation?

How can I be at ease when my father is ill? Perhaps we should choose another experienced and seasoned general…”

"Third Brother!"

Yun Jin interrupted him, her voice suddenly rising, carrying an undeniable resolve.

"It is precisely because the situation in the south is complicated, involving the suspicions of the Northern Barbarians and affecting the very foundation of the nation, that ordinary generals would find it difficult to weigh and handle the situation, which is why I had no choice but to go!"

When I was in the northern frontier, I shared life and death with my soldiers and I know the importance of morale in the army.

In the Jianghuai region, he provided disaster relief and helped the people, gaining a basic understanding of local conditions and problems.

In the imperial court, I am trusted by my father, the emperor, who has granted me the power to establish my own government, which is exactly what I need to do to ease his worries at this moment!

Your son has come south not to claim credit, nor to avoid suspicion, but solely for the safety of the nation and to prove to the world that our Jiangqiong court is united as one, free from internal corruption, and defends against powerful enemies from the outside!

No amount of demonic or sinister trickery can shake the foundations of the nation or sow discord between the ruler and his ministers!

Her words were firm and resounding, exuding an aura of righteous indignation and unwavering courage, leaving many officials who had initially opposed her speechless.

"As for safety,"

Yun Jin softened her tone and looked at Marquis Weiyuan.

"Marquis Weiyuan is a pillar of the nation, a military genius. Could you please recommend one or two deputy generals to Yun Jin who are familiar with the geography of the south and skilled in naval warfare, and also allocate a capable guard to accompany him? Yun Jin will humbly seek your advice, be of one heart with the soldiers, and dare not be arrogant because of his status."

She adopted a humble attitude, seeking advice and guidance from Marquis Weiyuan, which not only showed respect to the military but also demonstrated that she was not blindly showing off.

Marquis Weiyuan, Zhao Qingcang, stroked his beard and pondered for a moment before finally stepping forward and clasping his hands in a gesture of respect towards the throne.

"Your Majesty! This old minister believes that Princess Zhenguo is loyal, brave, and courageous, and has extraordinary insight."

At a time when the southern border is rife with troubles and shrouded in mystery, Your Highness's personal visit may serve to deter villains, boost morale, and provide clear and discerning information.

However, the title of "Commander-in-Chief" is of great importance. It would be better to go under the title of "Imperial Envoy Inspecting Military Performance" and "Inspector of Southern Defenses," which would give him the authority to advise on military affairs, supervise officers and soldiers, and investigate malpractices, without the responsibility of direct command.

In this way, His Highness's ambition to serve the country can be fulfilled without violating the court's established system. As for the selection of guards and deputies, this old minister would like to recommend two people...

He proposed a compromise that granted Yun Jin real power while avoiding the accusation of "the princess directly commanding the army," and personally recommended personnel to demonstrate his support.

In the imperial court, the situation reversed in an instant.

With the support of Marquis Weiyuan, a military giant, many neutral officials began to waver.

The Third Prince's faction, on the other hand, looked grim.

They could obstruct the princess's "supervision," but they could hardly oppose the "imperial envoy's inspection," especially since it was proposed by Marquis Weiyuan himself.

Just then, a eunuch rushed into the hall, carrying a piece of bright yellow silk, and announced loudly, "His Majesty has issued a decree!"

The officials immediately knelt down.

The eunuch unfolded the imperial edict and read it aloud in a shrill voice.

"...I am already aware of the military situation in the south. The Princess Zhenguo is commendable for her loyalty and courage, and her dedication to the country is admirable."

Princess Yun Jin, the eldest daughter of the Zhenguo Emperor, was granted the title of "Imperial Envoy Inspector of Southern Defense," and was given a royal banner and tablet. She was given the authority to control the prefectures and counties along the route, and to participate in military affairs, supervise officers and soldiers, and investigate corruption.

He was permitted to travel south to Anqing to comfort the soldiers, assist in military affairs, and thoroughly investigate the matter of the Northern Barbarians' weaponry. The deputy general and guards recommended by the Marquis of Weiyuan were granted.

All matters shall be handled by the Princess Zhenguo in consultation with the Ministry of War and the Marquis of Weiyuan, ensuring the rebellion is quelled as soon as possible and the truth is ascertained. So be it!

Despite being ill, the emperor still made the decision that was most favorable to Yun Jin!

Not only was she given the real power of "Inspector General", allowing her to "assist in military affairs" and "investigate problems", but she was also given the task of "in-depth investigation of the Northern Barbarian military equipment". This was the greatest trust in her and the clearest warning to the Third Prince's faction!

"Your subject (subject) receives the decree! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" Yun Jin and Marquis Weiyuan and others kowtowed to receive the decree.

The Third Prince Yun Huan knelt on the ground, head bowed, his fists clenched tightly in his sleeves, his nails almost digging into his flesh.

He lost another game! And this time, it was with his father's obvious favoritism!

The court assembly ended in a complex and indescribable atmosphere. Yun Jin's "decree to go south" was now a foregone conclusion.