This was not only because Zhu Yuanzhang was indeed too biased towards Zhu Biao and Zhu Xiong Ying, but also because he was considering the succession of the dynasty and did not want to see the princes fighting each other for the throne.
Establishing primogeniture may have its shortcomings, but it's still better than establishing 'meritocracy,' which can lead to a series of problems. Moreover, this so-called 'meritocracy' is quite subjective and may not necessarily reflect genuine virtue.
After dinner, Old Zhu urged Zhu Xi and Zhu Yue to take their younger brothers away. He said that they could leave after dinner and come back another time.
Seeing the others leave, Old Zhu began to complain, "Ying'er, really! You knew we wanted to talk to you, why did you bring them along?!"
Zhu Xiong Ying, on the other hand, displayed a somewhat shameless demeanor, clearly taking advantage of the emperor's favor. "Grandfather, my father and I have already received far too much of your favor, and we are content with that. But we feel that sometimes we should..."
"Enough," Old Zhu interrupted, "We'll take good care of the other children and ensure they have the wealth and privilege they deserve. But Ying'er, remember this well. We know you have the magnanimity of an elder brother and care for your family. However, you are our Crown Prince, and some things must be done this way!"
That might not be wrong, since the family business inherited by Old Zhu is so vast that some things naturally need to be carefully considered and dealt with.
Moreover, although it may seem that Zhu Yuanzhang only favored Zhu Biao and Zhu Xiong Ying, this was indeed due to the fact that the eldest son was the legitimate heir. However, to be realistic, this was the case in many feudal families as well; the position of the eldest son was an innate advantage.
As for the other children, even if they feel resentful, sometimes they can only accept it. This is their fate and treatment; some things are predetermined from birth.
Zhu Yuanzhang wasn't stingy; his princes and princesses were treated quite well. His treatment of the imperial family was so generous that it was the envy of imperial families in other dynasties. However, Zhu Xiong Ying felt this matter needed further consideration.
Zhu Yuanzhang had already set a high bar. If another emperor like the Fourth Prince were to usurp the throne and then try to appease the other members of the imperial family, the Ming Dynasty's finances might be dragged down by the salaries of the imperial family.
This is no joke, because the Ming Dynasty's finances were in dire straits in its later period due to a variety of factors, among which the imperial family was definitely a significant one.
But now is not the time to think about these things. What we need to do now is to have a good time with our family. That's the most important thing!
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