Chapter 159: The Battle Begins
At the break of dawn, the sky is shrouded in mist, giving the landscape an eerie, uncertain atmosphere. Lin Yuer's forces move swiftly and quietly, their first objective to neutralize the rebels' advance and cut off their support from the surrounding provinces. The battle for the capital begins in earnest.
The streets are empty, save for the occasional loyalist soldier or nervous merchant. Lin Yuer's forces move in strategic silence, their first wave sweeping through the outer city walls. Her spies report that Zhao's forces are still several hours away, but their movements are being carefully tracked. Every step they take is being monitored.
Within the royal palace, Lin Yuer waits for the first signs of conflict. She stands on the balcony overlooking the city, her eyes scanning the horizon for any movement. The sun begins to rise, casting a golden light over the city, but there is little time for celebration.
Her forces engage in skirmishes outside the city walls, testing the strength of Zhao's initial defenses. Lin Yuer's loyal generals press the attack, but they know that the true battle lies ahead. Zhao has positioned his best troops in key areas of the capital, and it will not be an easy fight.
As the hours pass, Lin Yuer's heart pounds in anticipation. She knows that she cannot hesitate, that the empire's survival depends on her decisive action.
At noon, a messenger arrives with urgent news: Zhao's forces have entered the city.