Chapter 136: The Summit of Shadows
The day of the summit arrives, and the capital is on edge. The warlords, some of the most feared and respected leaders in the north, have arrived in the city under heavy guard. Lin Yuer, with her usual calm and unyielding resolve, prepares to meet them face to face.
The summit takes place in a grand hall, where the leaders of the warlord factions sit across from Lin Yuer and her advisors. Tension fills the room, and the air is thick with distrust. The warlords, dressed in their battle attire, regard Lin Yuer with skepticism. They have never met a ruler like her—one who wields power not through strength of arms but through unity and innovation.
Lin Yuer stands before them, her gaze unwavering. "I have invited you here, not as a conqueror, but as a fellow leader who wishes to see the empire thrive," she begins. "We have a choice—continue down the path of division, or join together and create something greater than ourselves. The old ways are no longer enough. The future belongs to those who can adapt and work together."
The warlords exchange glances, unsure of how to respond. One of them, a towering figure named Gao, speaks up. "And what do you offer us in return for our loyalty, Empress? Your vision may be grand, but it does not satisfy our hunger for power."
Lin Yuer meets his gaze steadily. "I offer you a place in this new world—a chance to rule alongside me, to shape the future of the empire. Power is not just for the few; it is for all who are willing to contribute. There is enough to go around, but only if we work together."
The words hang in the air, and for a moment, the room is silent. The warlords, once so sure of their strength, are uncertain. Lin Yuer has played her hand, but it is unclear whether they will accept her offer or continue their rebellion.