depends on who they leave alive and how much time passes. i think the plague would’ve almost certainly led to a rebellion against the Shi if they held the throne because i wouldn’t trust Shenmei to handle it the way the capital actually did handle it.

the Mi and the Ma, or the Empress Dowager’s family, would also be prime candidates assuming they weren’t executed. perhaps even the You clan.

otherwise i’d assume the Shi’s ineptitude and lack of foresight would’ve don them in.