Today, an air of anticipation and trepidation settled over the entire world, but nowhere was it felt more keenly than in the heart of leadership across the three mighty empires—Heavenly Don, Lin, and Blood Conquering.
For days, preparations had been underway, and now, the eve of the decisive battle had dawned. Each empire had dispatched various weapons, war tactics, and the accumulated knowledge of esteemed warlords and generals to their chosen representatives—the young scions who would bear the weight of their empires' hopes and aspirations.
Controlling the ancestral zone for even a mere six months promised immense benefits. Mines teeming with valuable resources, some yet undiscovered, lay scattered throughout the land. Plants within the ancestral zone flourished at an unprecedented rate, making it a treasure trove of wealth waiting to be claimed. Tomorrow, the decisive battle would commence, and the world watched with bated breath.
Back within the ancestral zone, a palpable change had taken hold. What was once a lively and harmonious atmosphere had now given way to tension and unease. Cities and towns fortified their defenses, and nearly every inhabitant donned battle armor. Conversations in every corner centered on strategies and preparations.
In the grand hall of the Lin Empire, seven sons of Emperor Lin Lu occupied the highest seats. Below them sat the younger generations representing the myriad nations and powers under their banner. They lounged carefreely, sipping wine and sharing laughter, seemingly untouched by the impending war.
Lin Gai, the eldest of Emperor Lin Lu's seven sons present, rose with a confident smile. He addressed the assembly, "Greetings to all gathered here. As you are aware, tomorrow marks the beginning of the war. While it may stir unrest in the hearts of others, for us, the proud citizens of the great Lin Empire, it is a source of wealth."
Cheers and applause erupted from the assembly, endorsing Lin Gai's words. He waved graciously and continued, "Let us begin our celebration, even as we make our final preparations to amass even greater riches."
The assembly echoed with claps and praise. Lin Gai nodded to his brothers, and Lin He, the youngest and most cunning of them all, stood up. At the tender age of eleven, he was already renowned as a trickster.
With a salute and a mischievous smile, Lin He addressed the gathering, "I trust you are all aware that our envoys have returned from their missions to forge alliances with the other two empires. We have sent them weapons and provisions, and we have even established a gambling center where all may place their bets on the outcome of this war. Now, we must proceed with the next phase of our plan."
He gestured to two of his brothers, Lin Yuan and Lin Vin, who had been feigning disagreements and troubles. Lin He's eyes sparkled with cunning as he continued, "These two brothers of ours shall lead a portion of our army to each of the two empires as allies. So when any of the empire strike our cities, we shall call upon the other for aid, all while we enjoy the spectacle and indulge in our celebrations."
Lin You, one of the elder brothers, spoke up, his brow furrowed in thought. "Youngest brother, I fail to see the wisdom in this plan. Why not support one empire wholeheartedly, as we did two years ago?"
Lin Bi chimed in, "Indeed, I concur with Eighth Brother. Why not offer our full support to the Heavenly Don Empire once more?"
With a weary sigh, Lin He responded, "Brothers, you misunderstand. This time is different. The Blood Conquering Empire, though maniacal in their previous approach, have learned from their defeat."
Confusion and concern etched the faces of those assembled. Lin He's words hung in the air, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their carefully laid plans.
Lin He continues, "Last time the Blood Conquering Empire maniacs thought victory was already in their hands when because of the departure of General Lian of Heavenly Don Empire hence underestimating the new commander of the Heavenly Don Empire; Prince Don Jian of Heavenly Don Empire, they thought he was just strong in personal combat and can't lead a large army hence their loss but now they must have learnt their lessons and won't underestimate anyone especially in their present circumstances.
They all nod even if they were confused they choose to believe in their wise and cunning Prince Lin He.
As the eve of the war drew to a close, tension gripped the hearts of all, for the morrow would bring not only the clash of armies but also the revelation of hidden strategies and the test of cunning minds.