Chapter 112: The Gathering Clouds
Lin Yuer's growing influence is becoming a double-edged sword. Her efforts to decentralize power and provide more freedoms to the people have earned her respect from the common folk, but the elite class continues to feel threatened. Whispers of rebellion begin to surface once again, and this time, it is not just the nobility who are discontent. The military, which once stood firmly behind her, is now divided. Some generals, who had initially supported her vision, are now questioning her leadership. They feel that the military's influence is being eroded in favor of more progressive reforms.
Lin Yuer knows she must act quickly to maintain control. The first step is to reaffirm the loyalty of her military leaders. She holds a grand military council, where she reasserts her commitment to the empire's strength and security. She speaks not only to the generals but to the rank and file, reminding them of the empire's goals and their role in achieving them.
However, she also knows that her words will not be enough. She must prove that she is capable of leading both the military and the people. She makes the bold decision to lead a military campaign herself—something that will surely silence any remaining doubts about her authority.