Chapter 93: Seeds of Division
In the midst of the political turmoil, Lin Yuer receives an unexpected visit from her old mentor, Master Liu. The scholar, who had once been a quiet observer of her rise to power, now seeks her guidance. He is troubled by the growing divisions within the empire and warns her that if she does not act decisively, she risks losing the trust of the people.
"The seeds of division have been planted, Lin Yuer," Master Liu says gravely. "You must be careful, for it is not enough to simply defeat your enemies. You must also heal the wounds they have inflicted upon the empire. The people must see you as their protector, not just their ruler."
Lin Yuer takes his words to heart. She knows that the power struggle within the court is just one part of the equation. If she is to secure the future of the empire, she must also win the hearts and minds of the people. It is not enough to hold power; she must make her rule legitimate in the eyes of every citizen.