Chapter 99: Unseen Forces
As Lin Yuer's popularity among the common people grows, so does the opposition within the aristocracy. The nobility, who have long held power through land ownership and influence, see Lin Yuer's reforms as a direct threat to their control. Many of them, though outwardly obedient, quietly work against her in the background, stoking the flames of discontent among the rural elites.
Among these nobles is Lady Hua, a powerful matriarch who controls vast estates and has deep ties to the military. She has been a quiet opponent of Lin Yuer's reforms, and now, with the shift in power following Zhang Wei's downfall, she begins to make her move.
Lady Hua begins to gather support from the conservative factions within the court, positioning herself as a rival leader. She even seeks to sway some of Lin Yuer's more moderate supporters, promising them power and prestige in exchange for their allegiance. Lin Yuer is not unaware of her machinations, but she chooses to play a subtle game of her own.