"There is one more imperial edict; I shall read it personally!" The Empress Dowager glanced at everyone and spoke to Gu Chengyu.
The officials looked at each other in confusion. The imperial edict for succession had already been issued; why was there another one to follow?
"Hear the decree, ministers!" The Empress Dowager took the second edict and unfurled it.
Gu Chengyu knelt down with the officials, staring at the white jade steps before him, his heart a mix of emotions!
"By the decree of the Emperor, following the mandate of Heaven: Insomuch as Emperor has spread virtue and grace throughout, respecting all things… Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Gu Chengyu, has served the nation with great merit, recognized by all, and his deeds shall last forever. Now, as Heaven wills, Minister of the Ministry of Justice, Gu Chengyu is appointed Regent King to assist the young Emperor in governing the nation.
Hereby decreed!
The twentieth of March, second year of Guanghui."
