Chapter 144: The Echo of Power
General Zhao's expression hardens as he steps forward, his supporters shifting nervously behind him. For a moment, the air is tense with anticipation, and the people of the capital hold their breath. Would Zhao reject the offer and bring the empire to war? Or would he, like Lin Yuer, recognize the need for a different path?
With a voice like thunder, Zhao speaks. "Your words are well and good, Empress, but they are empty," he says. "The empire is built on strength, not idealism. Your path has weakened us. We cannot simply talk our way out of this. Power must be claimed. You are a ruler of ideas, but ideas alone will not save us from our enemies."
A murmur runs through the crowd, and Lin Yuer knows that Zhao's words resonate with many who have followed the old ways of rule. But she does not falter. This battle will not be won by words alone. She has to prove that her vision is not one of weakness but one of strength, a strength rooted in unity, innovation, and progress.
She raises her hand, signaling for silence. "General Zhao, you are right in one thing: power must be claimed. But power is not just the force of arms, it is the will of the people, the ability to unite and uplift them. We are no longer living in an age where warlords can dictate the fate of the empire. The people have spoken, and they have chosen a different path—a path of progress, of equality, and of justice. You may challenge me, but you will not silence the will of the people."
There is a long pause. Zhao glares at her, his jaw clenched in fury, but he remains silent, as if uncertain of how to respond. The crowd watches, waiting for his next move.
And then, to everyone's surprise, he steps back, his hand signaling his followers to hold their ground. "This battle is not over, Empress," he declares. "But today, I will allow you to keep your throne—for now."
With that, the tension in the square slowly dissipates, but the battle for the future of the empire is far from over. Lin Yuer knows that this victory is only temporary. The forces of division are powerful, and they will not give up easily. But today, she has proven that the power of unity and vision can still stand against the might of the old guard.