The council chamber was tense as Li Wei addressed his advisors. "Lord Feng's defiance cannot go unanswered. If we allow this rebellion to grow, it will embolden others. We must act swiftly."
General Cao Ren nodded. "Agreed, Your Majesty. But a direct assault on his estate could lead to heavy losses. He's well-defended and knows we're coming."
"Which is why we won't attack directly," Li Wei replied, a faint smile playing on his lips. "We'll cut off his resources. Surround his estate and starve him out."
Lin Mei, who had just returned from her investigation, raised an eyebrow. "A siege will take time. Are you prepared for the backlash from other nobles?"
"I'm prepared to show them what happens when they defy the crown," Li Wei said firmly. "But we'll send a final ultimatum first. Give Lord Feng one last chance to surrender."
Lin Mei smirked. "Merciful and ruthless. An effective combination."
The next day, a messenger was sent to Lord Feng's estate with Li Wei's ultimatum. As the army prepared to march, Li Wei stood at the head of his troops, his steel sword gleaming in the sunlight.
"Today," he declared, "we remind the nobles that the crown is not a suggestion it is law. And those who defy it will face the consequences."
But even as the army marched toward Lord Feng's estate, Lin Mei rode up to Li Wei, her face pale. "Your Majesty, there's been a development. It seems Lord Feng isn't acting alone."
Li Wei's jaw tightened. "Who's with him?"
Lin Mei hesitated. "Half the northern lords, Your Majesty. This is no rebellion it's a war."